A lot of people question our Christianity because we believe that God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost are three separate and distinct individuals rather than the trinity view that many religions follow. We believe they are perfect, glorified beings and therefore are perfectly united in purpose. They would say and do the same things in every situation, yet they are three different people.
Some scriptures in the Bible that support this view:
The Savior's Great Intercessory Prayer:
John 17
John 17:3 And this is life eternal, that they may know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent.
Jesus Christ's Baptism at the Hand of John:
Matt 3:11-12
Mark 1:8
Luke 3:16
Martrydom of Stephen:
Acts 7:55 (54-60)
55. But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God.
Experience on the Mount of Transfiguration:
Mark 9:7 (2-10)
2 Peter 1:17 (16-18)
Luke 9:35 (28-36)
John 5: 19 Then answered Jesus and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise.
Romans 8:34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us
Perhaps this scripture and others like it are reason for viewing God and Jesus Christ as the same being, but I believe a careful study of John 17 reveals the desire to be united and one in purpose rather than physically becoming the same being:
John: 17:21-23
21 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.
23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.
Jesus is praying for all those who believe on his name, that they may be one as he and the Father are one. Does this mean that they will become one physical being? No, it means they will be united in the faith, all with with perfect desires and love for each other.
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, one of the Twelve Apostles, gave a wonderful talk on the subject that includes additional scripture references and a discussion of how the view of the Trinity was defined in the Nicene Creed. The Only True God and Jesus Christ Whom He Hath Sent
Questions? Let me know!
