Introduction to the Oneness and Complexity of God in Christianity

Questions about the nature of God and Jesus Christ inevitably arise in the context of Christian theology. One common inquiry is, 'How can any religious person believe that Jesus is not God when it is clearly stated in John 1:1 that "the Word was God"?'

The passage in John 20:17 provides crucial context. When Jesus says, “Do not hold me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father,” it emphasizes that Jesus is distinct from the Father but nonetheless a intimate relationship with Him. This is further clarified in the subsequent scriptures, emphasizing the ongoing process of his ascension.

Understanding the Biblical Context of God and Jesus

It is important to note that John 1:1 does not state that Jesus is God. The term 'God' is applied to Jesus in the sense that He is God's agent and through whom all things were created, according to John 1:3. However, John 1:14 and 1:18 emphasize that the Word (Jesus) became flesh, highlighting his divinity and closeness to God but not his pre-existent divinity equal to the Father.

Furthermore, the Trinity Doctrine, often misunderstood, does not originate from a biblical scriptural teaching. The disciples, including Paul, chose simple fishermen over educated religious leaders. This choice reflects God's preference for humility and simplicity, not complexity and tradition overshadowing the truth.

John 1:32-34: Further Context on Jesus and God

The passage in John 1:32-34 further elaborates on the nature of Jesus. John the Baptist states, 'I myself did not know him, but for this I came baptizing with water, that he should be revealed to Israel.' This indicates that while Jesus was God's son, he was still in a position of submission and focus on revealing God to humanity.

Another crucial biblical passage, Matthew 20:17, highlights that Jesus has a God, specifically his heavenly Father. When addressing Mary Magdalene, Jesus says, 'I must ascend to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.' This passage questions the very nature of Jesus' identity, suggesting that while Jesus is God’s son, he still has a God. The idea that God, the son, has a God undermines the concept of monism in theology.

Cultural and Historical Context: Challenges in Understanding the Oneness of God

Understanding the oneness of God in Christianity involves recognizing both his unity and his diversity of attributes. The Bible presents God as a singular entity, yet this entity encompasses various attributes like love, justice, and wisdom. This is further illustrated in the analogy of a sunbeam, which is a single ray yet contains various colors and properties.

Some religious thought, however, introduces the concept of polytheism, which is a pagan idea. The origins of the Trinity concept, often misunderstood, can be traced back to Roman emperors who used religious doctrine to manipulate and control their subjects. This manipulation included altering the text in the Bible, as seen in removing the name of God, 'Yehovah,' and replacing it with a Roman god.

Correcting Misconceptions: Jesus as the Created Son of God

The phrase 'only begotten' in the Bible actually translates to 'prototokos,' meaning 'firstborn' or 'first-fruits,' rather than 'only begotten.' This emphasizes that Jesus is the first creation and not a pre-existent divine entity. The King James Bible, which can contain paganized verses, should be scrutinized against historical and textual research to uncover its true meaning.

Understanding that Jesus is the created son of God rather than a pre-existent deity is crucial. This interpretation aligns with the concept of 'fathership,' where Jesus is the direct son of God and the firstborn of all creation. Holding this view allows us to appreciate the complexity and oneness of God without falling into the trap of tri-theism (believing in three distinct gods).

Conclusion: Advocating for Truth in Christian Theology

As Christians, it is essential to approach biblical texts with a critical and open-minded mindset. While the idea of the Trinity is complex, it is essential to hold a balanced view that acknowledges God's unity and diversity through Jesus Christ, His son. Understanding the oneness and complexity of God leads to a more profound appreciation of the divine nature and a deeper personal faith journey.