Definition: For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this really beautiful and important verse from 1 John 5:7. It’s a complex idea, but I'll do my best to explain it simply for you. Here’s what it means, broken down into easy parts: The Basic Idea: This verse is about the unity of God . It’s saying that God isn’t just one person; He’s a trinity – three distinct but interconnected aspects of God working together in perfect harmony. Let's unpack each part: “Three that bear record…” - This refers to three beings or figures – think of them as witnesses or messengers. “…the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost.” - This is where it gets a little more interesting. These are often referred to as the "Trinity." It's a fundamental concept in Christian theology. The Father: This is God’s existence – He is all that exists. The Word (Jesus): This refers to Jesus Christ, who came to live on earth and showed us the way to salvation. He is God's self-expression. The Holy Ghost (the Spirit of God): This is the divine power and presence of God that lives in believers – it’s a guiding force and empowers us to do good. “and these three are one.” - This is the really important part. It means that these three beings – Father, Word, and Holy Ghost – are not separate but one divine being . They are completely unified and inseparable. Think of it like this: you can't have a single cup without the water inside – just as there’s one God without the Father, Word, and Holy Spirit, there is only one God. Why is this important? This verse is a cornerstone of Christian belief because it emphasizes that God is perfect, all-powerful, and fully known. It shows us that God’s relationship with us isn't just about us being saved; He’s actively involved in the very act of creation and working through His people to bring about His glory. In a nutshell: The verse reminds us that God is one, perfect, and eternally present in all three aspects of his being – Father, Word, and Holy Spirit – all working together for our good. Do you want me to explain any of these concepts further or perhaps explore how this verse applies to your life? For example, would you like to know: More about the Trinity concept? How this verse relates to salvation?