Encore Post: The word “Trinity” is old — it was first used in second century AD. (100-200 AD) Yet, it is not a term used by the Bible. Christian theologians use it to sum up what the Scripture says about the nature of God. It helps to look at the passages that brought the Church to talk about God in this way.
The first truth that the Word of God reveals to us about God is that he is unique. There is only one God. On this point, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, the Jehovah’s Witnesses and a number of other religions agree. Here is how the Holy Spirit talks about the number of gods and the unity of God.
Judaism uses Deuteronomy 6:4 as its creed: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.” Jesus and Paul agree. (Mark 12:29, Romans 3:30, Galatians 3:20). Other passages emphasize that there is one God. (Ephesians 4:61 Timothy 2:5, James 2:19).
There are no other Gods besides the Lord. (Isaiah 45:21, 1 Corinthians 8:4) None of the so-called gods of the nations are like him. (Isaiah 46:8-9) None of the false gods can bring rain (Jeremiah 14:22) Since they are not real, they cannot help, much less save.
From these, and many other passages, the Church concluded and still believes that there is only one God. It is this God that we fear, love and trust as our own.
See also: One God in Three Persons
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Do you have a reference for the word Trinity being used in first and second centuries? I would like to bookmark it.
Probably the Wikipedia article is the fastest. If you’d like something more direct, let me know and I’ll do some digging.
Thanks for responding so quickly.
Will check Wikipedia, however would also appreciate actual reference.
Not everyone considers Wikipedia to be a valid source. 😉
Try Theophilus of Antioch: 2,15