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note emphasizing "name" instead of "names", Semitic meaning of "name" of a subject
Although it is never made explicit in the [[Bible]], the concept of the Trinity is embraced by the [[Roman Catholic Church]], the [[Orthodox Church]], and nearly all [[Protestantism|Protestant]] denominations. The name was coined by the Church Father Tertullian (145-220 AD). It is based on inferences from texts emphasizing the closeness of God-the-Father and Jesus (such as Rom. 8:31-34), the role of the Holy Ghost, and especially the baptismal formula in Matt. 28:19
Although it is never made explicit in the [[Bible]], the concept of the Trinity is embraced by the [[Roman Catholic Church]], the [[Orthodox Church]], and nearly all [[Protestantism|Protestant]] denominations. The name was coined by the Church Father Tertullian (145-220 AD). It is based on inferences from texts emphasizing the closeness of God-the-Father and Jesus (such as Rom. 8:31-34), the role of the Holy Ghost, and especially the baptismal formula in Matt. 28:19
:Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.
:Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.<ref>The word "name" in this passage is singular. The plural word "names" is not said. Semitic peoples understood the name of something or someone was not merely a label, a sound, but the very nature of the subject as the referent. God is Trinity, but God's nature is unity, having one name, one nature.</ref>
A good illustration is [[water|H<sub>2</sub>O]]. It can take three forms, all of which are considered water. In the same way, God exists as three distinct but united persons. Another excellent illustration is the mind, which has three distinct powers of memory, understanding and will, which are not the same thing but are functions of one mind.<ref>We can remember something we do not understand; we can understand something new which is not something we remember; and we can will to do something which does not need to be understood, which we have never done before.</ref>
A good illustration is [[water|H<sub>2</sub>O]]. It can take three forms, all of which are considered water. In the same way, God exists as three distinct but united persons. Another excellent illustration is the mind, which has three distinct powers of memory, understanding and will, which are not the same thing but are functions of one mind.<ref>We can remember something we do not understand; we can understand something new which is not something we remember; and we can will to do something which does not need to be understood, which we have never done before.</ref>