Topical Encyclopedia The doctrine of the unity of God is a foundational tenet of Christian theology, affirming that there is only one God. This concept is consistently asserted by the apostles in the New Testament, reflecting the monotheistic tradition inherited from Judaism and further expounded in the teachings of Jesus Christ.Pauline Epistles The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, frequently emphasizes the oneness of God. In 1 Corinthians 8:4-6 , Paul addresses the issue of food offered to idols, stating, "We know that an idol is nothing at all in the world, and that there is no God but one. For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth (as indeed there are many 'gods' and many 'lords'), yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we exist." Here, Paul clearly distinguishes the Christian understanding of God from the polytheistic beliefs prevalent in the Greco-Roman world. In Ephesians 4:4-6 , Paul further underscores this unity: "There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." This passage not only affirms the singularity of God but also connects it to the unity of the Christian community, emphasizing that the oneness of God is mirrored in the unity of believers. Petrine Writings The Apostle Peter also affirms the unity of God in his writings. In 1 Peter 1:2 , he speaks of believers as "chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by His blood." While this passage highlights the distinct roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, it is set within the context of a unified divine purpose, reflecting the monotheistic belief in one God working through different persons. Johannine Literature The Apostle John, in his epistles, reinforces the unity of God, particularly in the context of love and truth. In 1 John 5:20 , he writes, "And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know Him who is true; and we are in Him who is true—in His Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life." John's assertion of Jesus Christ as the true God aligns with the monotheistic belief in one God, while also affirming the divinity of Christ. James and Jude The Epistle of James, attributed to the brother of Jesus, also affirms the unity of God. In James 2:19 , it is written, "You believe that God is one. Good for you! Even the demons believe that—and shudder." This statement not only acknowledges the monotheistic belief but also challenges believers to live out their faith in accordance with this truth. Similarly, Jude, another brother of Jesus, in his short epistle, emphasizes the singularity of God in the context of salvation and judgment, urging believers to remain faithful to the one true God. Conclusion The apostolic writings consistently affirm the unity of God, a doctrine that is central to Christian faith and practice. Through their teachings, the apostles uphold the monotheistic tradition, while also revealing the complexity of the Godhead as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This unity is not only a theological assertion but also a call to unity among believers, reflecting the harmonious nature of the divine. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Corinthians 8:4,6As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice to idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ephesians 4:6 1 Timothy 2:5 Library The Unity of the Divine Essence, and the Trinity of Persons. The Acts of the Apostles The Unity of the Divine Essence in Three Persons Taught, in ... Two-Fold Bearing of the Kingdom of God --An Inward, Spiritual ... Works and Letters of St. Ambrose On the Trinity. Book i. When I was Seeking an Employment Adequate ... The Apostles' Creed. The Canons of the Council in Trullo. (Labbe and Cossart, Concilia ... Book ix. In the Last Book we Treated of the Indistinguishable ... Subject Index Resources Marital Unity ' Article Index | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the National Council of Churches? | GotQuestions.org Is ecumenism biblical? Should a Christian be involved in the ecumenical movement (ecumenicalism)? | GotQuestions.org Unity: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Unity of God: A Ground for Loving Him Supremely Unity of God: A Ground for Obeying Him Exclusively Unity of God: All Saints Acknowledge, in Worshipping Him Unity of God: All should Know and Acknowledge Unity of God: Asserted by Apostles Unity of God: Asserted by Christ Unity of God: Asserted by God Himself Unity of God: Asserted by Moses Unity of God: Consistent With the Deity of Christ and of the Holy Spirit Unity of God: Exhibited in His Being Alone Good Unity of God: Exhibited in His Being Alone Possessed of Fore-Knowledge Unity of God: Exhibited in His Being the Only Saviour Unity of God: Exhibited in His Being the Only Source of Pardon Unity of God: Exhibited in His Being the Sole Object of Worship in Heaven and Earth Unity of God: Exhibited in His Exercise of Uncontrolled Sovereignty Unity of God: Exhibited in His Greatness and Wonderful Works Unity of God: Exhibited in His Unparalleled Election and Care of his People Unity of God: Exhibited in His Works of Creation and Providence Unity of God: May be Acknowledged Without Saving Faith Unity of God: The Knowledge of, Necessary to Eternal Life Related Terms |
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