People in Wrexham, North Wales are being invited to ask questions about Christian belief. This week’s question is, “How can you have three gods in one?”

If God were only one person, then love could not be part of His nature because it would only be self love which is not love at all. True love requires at least two persons and is most clearly seen in the loving relationship between a husband and a wife. However their love is fully complete when it reaches out to their first child. So for God to exemplify love in its fullest sense there must be three persons. God’s love has always been eternally perfect. We can all enjoy it but not add to it.

The doctrine of the Trinity based on many Scriptures, states that in the Godhead there are three eternal and co-equal persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit in One Being. Jesus told his followers to baptise in the Name (singular) of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. He did not tell them to baptise in the name of three gods! At creation God said, “Let US make man.” [ Genesis 1:26 ] We are each a trinity of body, soul and spirit. Each side of a triangle is of equal importance. But here is my favourite illustration of the Trinity. Years ago I suggested to a scientific friend who was researching water that since it took 3 atoms to make 1 molecule of water, this was a good picture of the Trinity. “Yes I agree,” he replied, “But we scientists cannot understand the profound mysteries of water, it is so amazing and wonderful!” Then he added, “But this doesn’t stop me drinking water or enjoying the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit.” [ 2 Corinthians 13:14 ]