The Holy Trinity: A Mystery That Draws Us Closer to God
The Cloud of Unknowing: the barrier between the human mind and the infinite mystery of God
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19)
Have you ever tried to wrap your mind around the concept of the Trinity? If you’re anything like me, you may have found yourself both awestruck and overwhelmed. To me, it feels like staring into the vast night sky, trying to comprehend the infinite universe—it’s awe-inspiring yet utterly beyond my grasp. The truth that God is one being yet three Persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—challenges everything we know about existence. And yet, this wonderful truth isn’t meant to be fully understood; it’s meant to draw us into worship. For me, it certainly does.
A.W. Tozer’s reflection on the Trinity in Chapter 4 of The Knowledge of the Holy reminded me that our inability to fully grasp this truth doesn’t diminish its reality. Instead, it magnifies God’s infinite greatness. Tozer wrote, “The doctrine of the Trinity is truth for the heart. The spirit of man alone can enter through the veil and penetrate into that Holy of Holies.”
Let’s explore this sacred mystery together—not to unravel it but to stand in awe of the God who is both infinitely beyond us and intimately within us.
A Mystery Revealed by God
The Trinity isn’t a human invention or philosophical concept. It’s a reality revealed by God through Scripture. Though our finite minds can’t fully comprehend how God is both three and one, He has shown us glimpses of His triune nature in creation, redemption, and sanctification.
Consider these examples:
In creation: The Father speaks the universe into being (Genesis 1:1), the Son acts as the agent through whom all things are made (Colossians 1:16), and the Spirit hovers over the waters, bringing order to chaos (Genesis 1:2).
In redemption: The Son offers Himself as the perfect sacrifice (Hebrews 9:14), the Spirit empowers and sustains Him, and the Father accepts His offering.
In salvation: We are chosen by the Father, redeemed by the Son, and regenerated by the Spirit (1 Peter 1:2).
Each Person of the Trinity is fully God, yet they are not three gods but one. This unity in diversity reflects the very nature of God. Isn’t it amazing how He reveals Himself to us so that we can know and trust Him?
Why the Trinity Matters
You might wonder, “Why does the Trinity matter to me personally?” It’s not just a theological concept for scholars to debate. The Trinity shapes our understanding of God, salvation, and our relationship with Him in profound ways:
God Is Relational: Before creation, the Father, Son, and Spirit existed in perfect love and unity. God didn’t create us out of loneliness—He created us out of the overflow of His love. Through Christ, we are invited into this divine relationship. What an incredible privilege to participate in the eternal fellowship of the Triune God!
God Is Trustworthy: The unity of the Trinity assures us that God is consistent and faithful. The same love that sent the Son to the cross is the love that empowers the Spirit within us and sustains us in the Father’s care. His plans for us are always good and perfect (Romans 12:2).
God Is Personal: The Trinity reminds us that God is not distant or impersonal. The Father adopts us as His children (Romans 8:15). The Son walks with us as our Savior and Friend (John 15:15). The Spirit dwells within us, guiding and comforting us (John 14:26). Each Person of the Trinity engages with us in unique and intimate ways, showing us His relentless love.
Living in the Light of the Trinity
How does the truth of the Trinity shape our daily lives? It transforms how we think, live, and worship.
Worship Fully: Knowing that God is infinitely beyond us inspires reverence and awe. We don’t need to fully understand Him to adore Him.
Trust Completely: The unity of the Trinity assures us that God’s plans are unchanging and trustworthy. We can rest in His promises, knowing He is faithful in every circumstance.
Love Deeply: As we experience the love of the Triune God, we are empowered to love others selflessly. His life within us flows outward, enabling us to reflect His character to the world.
When we meditate on the Trinity, we realize that our faith is not just about understanding doctrines but about entering into a relationship with the living God. The Father, Son, and Spirit invite us into communion, offering peace, joy, and purpose.
A Prayer of Worship
Lord, You are one God in three Persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We worship You in awe and thanksgiving for who You are. Thank You for revealing Yourself to us, inviting us into Your eternal love and fellowship. May our lives reflect the unity, love, and grace of Your triune nature. To You alone be all glory, honor, and praise, now and forever. Amen.
Reflect and Share
How has understanding the Trinity deepened your faith and trust in God?
What aspect of God’s triune nature speaks most to your heart?
Let’s journey together into the depths of His goodness and grace, trusting that the God who is beyond us is also with us ... and in us.