One God in three persons affirmed in the Dordrecht Confession
The Amish affirm classical Trinitarian doctrine: one God eternally existing as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Their primary confessional document, the Dordrecht Confession of Faith (1632), affirms this foundational belief. The Trinity shapes Amish baptismal practice (in the name of the Father, Son, and Spirit) and their understanding of salvation and community life.
The Amish do not engage in elaborate theological speculation about the nature of the Trinity; their focus is on practical obedience and community formation rather than systematic doctrine. But the Trinitarian faith expressed in the Dordrecht Confession is foundational and unquestioned.
Key Distinctions
- Persons ontology:
- three coequal persons, one divine substance
- Spirit procession:
- from Father and Son (filioque)
- Creed stance:
- Dordrecht Confession of Faith (1632); classical Trinity affirmed
Scripture References
Sources
- Dordrecht Confession of Faith (1632), Articles 1–3