Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading
1. Matthew 28:19 – “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.”
2. 2 Corinthians 13:13 – “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”
3.  John 14:6 – “Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’”

Observation Questions
1. According to Matthew 28:19, what are the three names in which disciples are to be baptized?
2. In 2 Corinthians 13:13, what three aspects of God are mentioned, and how do they relate to each person of the Trinity?
3. What does Jesus claim about Himself in John 14:6, and how does this relate to His divinity?

Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it significant that Jesus includes the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19)? How does this support the concept of the Trinity?
2. How does the benediction in 2 Corinthians 13:13 reflect the unity and distinct roles within the Trinity?
3. In what ways does Jesus’ statement in John 14:6 affirm His identity as God? How does this impact our understanding of the Trinity?

Application Questions
1. Reflect on A.W. Tozer’s quote about idolatry. Have you ever held a belief about God that you later realized was incorrect? How did you correct this understanding?
2. The sermon emphasized the importance of accurately understanding God to avoid idolatry. What steps can you take to ensure your understanding of God aligns with Scripture?
3. The Holy Spirit is described as the primary agent in the current church age. How can you become more aware of the Holy Spirit’s presence and guidance in your daily life?
4. The concept of the Trinity includes a hierarchy of submission without implying inequality. How can this understanding influence your relationships, especially in contexts where submission is required?
5. Each person of the Trinity plays a vital role in our salvation. How does recognizing the collaborative work of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit deepen your appreciation for your salvation?
6. The sermon mentioned that misrepresenting God can lead to idolatry. Are there any areas in your life where you might be misrepresenting God to others? How can you address this?
7. Understanding the Trinity is not just an academic exercise but a vital aspect of our faith. How can you live out your faith with a renewed vigor and commitment, knowing the triune nature of God?

Day 1: The Danger of Misrepresenting God

Understanding God accurately is crucial because misrepresentations can lead to idolatry. A.W. Tozer emphasized that wrong ideas about God are themselves idolatrous. This means that when we create a false image of God, we are essentially worshiping an idol. It is vital to align our understanding of God with Scripture to avoid creating a false image of Him. This accurate understanding shapes our relationship with God and ensures that we are worshiping Him in truth.

Misrepresenting God can have serious consequences. It can lead us away from the true God and cause us to follow a god of our own making. This is why it is essential to study the Bible and seek a true understanding of God’s nature. By doing so, we can avoid the pitfalls of idolatry and ensure that our worship is directed towards the one true God. [08:06]

Jeremiah 9:23-24 (ESV): “Thus says the Lord: ‘Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the Lord.'”

Reflection: Are there any misconceptions you have about God that you need to correct? How can you seek a more accurate understanding of Him through Scripture today?

Day 2: The Trinity in Scripture

The concept of the Trinity, though not explicitly named in the Bible, is clearly supported by numerous passages. For instance, the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19 and the benediction in 2 Corinthians 13:13 both reference the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This triune nature of God is foundational to our faith and helps us understand the distinct roles of each person within the Godhead.

The Trinity is a mystery that can be difficult to fully comprehend, but it is essential to our understanding of who God is. Each person of the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—plays a unique role in God’s plan for humanity. Recognizing this helps us appreciate the depth and complexity of God’s nature and His work in our lives. [20:52]

2 Corinthians 13:14 (ESV): “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”

Reflection: How does understanding the Trinity enhance your relationship with God? Can you identify ways in which each person of the Trinity has been active in your life?

Day 3: The Hierarchy within the Trinity

The Trinity has a hierarchy of submission, where the Son and the Spirit submit to the Father. This does not imply inequality but rather distinct roles within the Godhead. Just as in a marriage, submission does not equate to inferiority. Understanding this hierarchy helps us appreciate the unity and diversity within the Trinity.

The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are all equally God, yet they have different roles and functions. The Son submits to the Father, and the Spirit submits to both the Father and the Son. This hierarchy reflects a perfect relationship of love and cooperation within the Godhead. It also serves as a model for our relationships, showing us that submission can coexist with equality and mutual respect. [22:38]

John 5:19 (ESV): “So Jesus said to them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father does, that the Son does likewise.'”

Reflection: How can the example of submission within the Trinity influence your relationships? Are there areas in your life where you struggle with submission, and how can you address them?

Day 4: The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is the primary agent in the current church age, guiding, convicting, and interceding for believers. He is not an “it” or a ghost but a person who is fully God. Understanding His role is crucial for living a Spirit-led life. The Holy Spirit was present at creation, inspired the writers of Scripture, convicts believers, and intercedes for us in prayer.

The Holy Spirit’s work is essential for our spiritual growth and daily walk with God. He empowers us to live out our faith, provides guidance and wisdom, and helps us understand and apply God’s Word. By recognizing the Holy Spirit’s role in our lives, we can cultivate a deeper relationship with Him and rely on His power and presence. [31:10]

Romans 8:26-27 (ESV): “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.”

Reflection: How can you become more aware of the Holy Spirit’s presence and work in your life? What steps can you take to cultivate a Spirit-led life?

Day 5: Salvation and the Trinity

Each person of the Trinity plays a vital role in our salvation. The Father’s wrath was kindled against sin, the Son provided the atonement, and the Holy Spirit convicts and seals believers. This collaborative work of the Trinity underscores the depth and completeness of our salvation. Understanding the roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in our salvation helps us appreciate the magnitude of God’s love and grace.

The Father initiated the plan of salvation, the Son accomplished it through His death and resurrection, and the Holy Spirit applies it to our lives. This divine teamwork highlights the unity and cooperation within the Trinity and assures us of the security and sufficiency of our salvation. By recognizing the roles of each person of the Trinity, we can deepen our gratitude and worship for the God who saves us. [38:44]

Ephesians 1:13-14 (ESV): “In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.”

Reflection: How does understanding the roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in your salvation impact your faith? In what ways can you express your gratitude for the collaborative work of the Trinity in your life?