An unexpected glimpse at the Trinity

When one examines the text of scripture closely, allowing it to speak for itself, the Bible contains a plethora of doctrines waiting to be unpacked and exposited.

Over the centuries since Christ our Lord’s ascension, many Christian thinkers have done just that. The doctrine of the trinity is not one derived of mans commentary of the bible but of subject matter within inspired scripture.

I’ve been reading through 1st Corinthians to actually learn more about spiritual gifts as a result of a recent discussion I had with a brother. When I got to chapter 12, where gifts are specifically mentioned in the book, what I found tonight that particularly blessed me were these verses;

“Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. (Corinthians ­12:­4-6 ESV. Emphasis added)

I’m no Trinitarian scholar but I know enough to recognize here that Paul is clearly distinguishing the Spirit, The Lord and God. I find his use of the distinctions very instructive by which he asserts certain attributes or roles belonging to each person in the God-head.

In verse 4: The gifts given to the brethren of Christ, to man, in all their variety are worked by the same Spirit.

In verse 5: There are also different types of service man walks in, all types unto The Lord. Christ is The Lord of Lords who is currently seated at the right hand of the Father who is making all His enemies a footstool for His feet. The Christians walk is servitude to His will empowered in His righteousness.

In verse 6: The “varying activities” text paints the picture of our God who controls even the activities of everyday life itself; where everyday circumstances, even mundane as they may be are not without the purposes, usage or control of God.

This exposition was not a planned one but a fun one. We learn more of the God of the Bible when we let the Bible renew our minds. It is His Word and it is our rock of guidance into knowing who He is.

What a joy to know that there are centuries worth of brethren who have gone before us; who loved this God who fist loved them, just as I have come to love Him because He first loved me.

There are many who built on the foundation of Christ with precious stones and metals and we would be wise to learn from their constructions, less we find our houses burned up like straw in a scorching fire.

Grace and peace in Christ

-Abram