26/05/2024
ESOCS CHURCH 2024 ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL MANUAL
SUNDAY 26TH MAY 2024
THEME: EQUIPPING THE SAINTS
TOPIC: THE DOCTRINE OF TRINITY
TEXT: 1 JOHN 5: 1-15
MEMORY VERSE: 1 JOHN 5:7 "For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one (KJV).
INTRODUCTION
According to Miriam Webster Dictionary, the term Trinity refers to the unity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as three persons in one Godhead according to Christian dogma. The Trinity Sunday is the Sunday after the Pentecost Sunday which is observed as a feast in honor of the Trinity. The doctrine of the Trinity means that there is one God who eternally exists as three distinct Persons - the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Stated differently, God is one in essence and three in person. The Bible speaks of the Father as God (Phil. 1:2), Jesus as God (Titus
2:13), and the Holy Spirit as God (Acts 5:3-4). Also, according to our text, there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and
these three are one (1 John 5:7). The Trinity is often summarized in the phrase "One God in Three Persons" or expressed as "Father, Son, and Holy Spirit." It's important to note that the concept of the Trinity is complex and has been a subject of theological reflection and debate throughout Christian history. While the term "Trinity" itself is not found in the Bible, the theology is a conceptual idea derived from various passages that speak to the oneness of God and explains the distinct roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
STUDY OUTLINE
THE THREE PERSONS IN THE TRINITY
1. God the Father: God the Father is the Creator, the Source of all existence, and the One who sent the Son into the world (Ephesians 4:6).
2. God the Son (Jesus Christ): Jesus Christ is the second person of the Trinity, fully divine and fully human, who came to earth to reveal God, provide salvation, and reconcile humanity to God (John 1:1-14; Colossians 1:15).
3. God the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity, often referred to as the Comforter, Advocate, or Counselor. The Holy Spirit empowers believers, convicts of sin, and guides into all truth (John 14:16-17: Acts 1 :8).
BIBLICAL FOUNDATIONS ON THE DOCTRINE OF TRINITY
1. The Great Commission: This is a clear command from Jesus to preach and baptize in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, indicating a shared divine identity (Matthew 28: 19).
2. The Baptism of Jesus: The event of the baptism of Jesus Christ presented a clear manifestation of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in a single context (Matthew 3:16-17).
3. The Promise of the Holy Spirit: The promise is a collaborative work of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in the sending of the Holy Spirit. (John 14:26).
4. The Baptismal Formula: The triadic formula in the context of baptism, associating it with the name of Jesus Christ and the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38).
5. The Benediction: This benediction from the Apostle Paul expresses the grace of Jesus, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit in a triadic formula (2 Corinthians 13:14).
6. The Prologue of John: John's prologue speaks of the Word (Jesus) being with God and being God. It also mentions the Word becoming flesh and dwelling among us. It lays the groundwork for understanding the
divinity of Christ (John 1:1-14).
7. The Incarnation and the Holy Spirit: The angel Gabriel's announcement to Mary about the conception of Jesus by the Holy Spirit
emphasizes the role of the Father, the Holy Spirit, and the Son in the Incarnation. (Luke 1:35).
LESSONS FROM THE TRINITY
1. Unity in Diversity: The Trinity demonstrates unity in diversity, where three distinct persons share a perfect, harmonious relationship while being one (Deuteronomy 6:4; John 10:30).
2. Distinct Roles within Unity: Each person of the Trinity has distinct roles while maintaining perfect unity. The Father plans and sends, the Son accomplishes redemption, and the Holy Spirit empowers and sanctifies (John 3:16; John 14:26).
3. Interdependence and Cooperation: The Trinity teaches us the beauty of interdependence and cooperation among the persons of the Godhead (John 15:26; John 16:13).
4. Relationship of Love: The relationship within the Trinity is characterized by perfect love. This sets an example for believers to strive for loving relationships with one another (1 John 4:8; John 17:24).
5. Eternal Existence: The Trinity highlights the eternal existence of God. Each person of the Trinity has existed from eternity past and will exist forever. (John 1:1; Revelation 1:8)
6. Salvation Plan: The Trinity plays a crucial role in the salvation plan, with the Father sending the Son to save humanity, and the Holy Spirit convicting and empowering believers (Romans 5:8; John 16:7).
CONCLUSION
The doctrine of the Trinity in Christianity articulates the nature of God as three distinct persons-Father, Son, and Holy Spirit-existing in perfect unity and sharing the same divine essence. The doctrine reflects the mysterious and complex nature of the Triune God, emphasizing the unity in diversity within the Godhead. Christians apply the understanding of this doctrine during prayers and other sacraments.
PRAYER
Dear Lord, thank You for the revelation of the Trinity. Thank You for the gift of Your Son and Spirit. Help us to worship You in truth and in spirit and to uphold the witnesses of the Trinity; in Jesus' name. Amen.
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