One God in three coequal, eternal persons; foundational Nicene doctrine
The Brethren in Christ affirm classical Trinitarian doctrine as expressed in the Nicene Creed. God exists eternally as three coequal persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—in one divine being. This belief is foundational to the denomination's understanding of God, Christology, salvation, and communal worship.
The Trinity is affirmed in the denomination's catechisms and confessional materials, though the Brethren in Christ do not engage in speculative metaphysical theology. Instead, the Trinity shapes their baptismal practice (invocation of Father, Son, and Spirit), their understanding of salvation (work of all three persons), and their prayer life.
The denomination affirms the filioque clause (the Spirit proceeds from Father and Son), consistent with Western Christian orthodoxy. The Trinity is understood as a mystery that exceeds human comprehension but is clearly taught in Scripture and essential to Christian faith.
Key Distinctions
- Persons ontology:
- three distinct coequal persons, one divine substance
- Spirit procession:
- from Father and Son (filioque)
- Creed stance:
- Nicene Creed affirmed as authoritative
Scripture References
Sources
- Brethren in Christ Church Confession of Faith (1950s–present)
- Nicene Creed (325 AD)
- Official BIC hymnals and catechetical materials