WHAT THE BIBLE TEACHES ABOUT THE TRINITY
By Stuart Olyott
EP Books. 112 pages. £5.99
ISBN 978 0 852 347 461
What can a small book usefully say about the Trinity? Stuart Olyott tells us that, while we can never fully explain how God is as he reveals himself, we can begin with what God has said. He goes on to set out the biblical teaching in a straight and simple manner. This is a primer to get the reader started on what the Bible says about the Trinity.
The first couple of chapters show us who God is, that he is one and yet three persons. Then three chapters each examine the evidence from the Scriptures that the Father, the Son and the Spirit are each fully God. Another three chapters look at what it means to speak of three distinct persons, to speak of the Son being begotten, and the Spirit proceeding. Three final chapters exhort us to keep this doctrine clear in our minds and close to our hearts, for our sakes and for the church’s sake. The Nicene Creed and suggestions for further reading form two Appendices, and there is a Scripture index (hurrah!).
This book is very clearly set out. The language is straight and simple, no mean feat when dealing with such technical issues. The explanation proceeds in a logical order so that earlier parts prepare for later chapters. I found the author’s clarity helped to untangle the puzzles that arise in the Bible reader’s mind. The sections on the angel of the Lord, on the persons of God, on the Son being begotten and the Spirit proceeding especially interesting. You may have your own highlights.
This book also has a specific aim: to introduce what the Bible says about this topic. We should not be disappointed that we do not read much of what great theologians said on this doctrine, nor of how it impacts current debates (e.g. on headship). Let us instead be grateful that this small volume, first published in 1979 as The Three are One, has been made available again.
A small book can say plenty about the Trinity. This one certainly does.
Ed Moll,
minister of St. George’s Church, Wembdon, Bridgwater, Somerset
