Debate over interpretation of Trinity doctrine in New Testament, defense of the Trinity doctrine, critique of the 'T' doctrine of the Trinity, ancient vs modern concept of identity, importance of defending the Trinity concept
Dr. Craig defends the biblical doctrine of the Trinity, asserting that there is one God and three persons who are properly called God.
There is a distinction between the New Testament's use of 'God' for Jesus Christ and its metaphorical use for other exalted figures in pre-New Testament Judaism.
Deep dives
Bill's Defense of the Biblical Doctrine of the Trinity
Bill asserts that his defense of the biblical doctrine of the Trinity is a simple one, in which there is exactly one God and exactly three persons who are properly called God. He expresses astonishment at Tuggy's claim that none of the authors in the book defend the position that the Bible teaches or implies the doctrine of the Trinity. Bill questions how Tuggy can claim that his view is not Trinitarian when it meets the definition for the doctrine of the Trinity that Tuggy himself provides in his article. He criticizes Tuggy for misrepresenting the position of the other authors and presenting a misrepresentation of the doctrine of the Trinity.
The Distinction of Deity in the New Testament
Bill highlights the distinction between the attributions of deity in the New Testament and the metaphorical use of the word 'God' for other exalted figures in pre-New Testament Judaism. He emphasizes that when he says there are three persons properly called God, he means that they are truly and literally called God, distinguishing them from these other quasi divine figures. This differentiation is important in understanding the unique deity ascribed to Jesus Christ in the New Testament.
Challenging Tuggy's Misrepresentation of Trinitarian Views
Bill challenges Tuggy's proposed doctrine, T, as a misrepresentation and straw man of Trinitarian belief. He argues that T is not what Trinitarians believe and that his formulation, which asserts one God and three persons properly called God, is a much simpler and more biblical explanation. Bill highlights that his formulation better explains the 20 facts listed by Tuggy and argues against Tuggy's assertion regarding Trinitarian scholars' understanding of identity. He asserts that the New Testament authors were not making identity statements but rather predications of deity, which do not present logical problems for the doctrine of the Trinity.