The Trinity: Glory Be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit!

Abstract

Bradley D. Wordell’s essay, presented to the Confessional Evangelical Lutheran Conference in 2021, explores the doctrine of the Holy Trinity through biblical, systematic, historical, and practical theology. Wordell emphasizes the mystery and majesty of the triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—revealed progressively throughout Scripture and fully in the gospel. He critiques inadequate analogies and highlights the unity of Trinity and salvation. The essay addresses the filioque controversy, affirming the Spirit’s procession from both Father and Son, and encourages contextual theological engagement across CELC churches. Wordell calls for robust trinitarian worship, doctrine, and mission, rooted in Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions. Rich in biblical references, theological reflection, and historical insight, the essay concludes with a call to proclaim the trinitarian gospel with clarity and joy. —Abstract created by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)