The Doctrine of the Trinity: Opponents Past and Present

Systematic Theology I

Research Proposal

Seminary

JoJo the Indian Circus Boy

September, 2010

TABLE OF CONTENTS

THESIS STATEMENT 2

INTRODUCTION 2

THEOLOGY OF THE TRINITY 3

BIBLICAL EVIDENCE SUPPORTING THE TRINITY

Old Testament Support of the Trinity 4 New Testament Support of the Trinity 5

HISTORY OF THE TRINITY 7

Critics of the Trinity-Present 8

Judaism..............................................................................................................9

Gnosticism.......................................................................................................10 …show more content…

Distinct from polytheistic worshipers or those partaking in idol worship the Divinity of this God revealed in the Old Testament has rarely been called into debate. Rather, there has been a great deal of controversy facing Christian monotheists when the concept regarding the Deity of Jesus Christ as well as that of the Holy Spirit are attempted to be included in the oneness of God. While there is no distinct scriptural reference that details any type of doctrine of the Trinity, the concept is clearly imbedded in the Bible. An investigation of the scriptures is needed in order to discern how the Trinity is presented and authenticated. The Old and New Testaments both present clear mandates that make the formation of a Trinitarian doctrine possible and further explain the Deity of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit without compromise to the monotheistic religion.

Old Testament Support of the Trinity

It is first necessary to point out that God in the Old Testament has revealed Himself as the only, singular Lord of the Universe. Most clearly stated in the book of Isaiah 43:10, God pronounces this claim saying “Before Me there was no God formed, and there will be none after Me”. This is evident also from the first words of the Bible where before there was anything, God was. It therefore is shown that God is eternal and has existence that originates from no source other than Himself. This fact was observed and accepted by God’s followers accordingly