Nontrinitarianism

Nontrinitarianism refers to religious beliefs that reject the doctrine of the Trinity, a central tenet of mainstream Christianity that asserts God is three consubstantial persons or hypostases—the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit—as "one God in three Divine Persons". Nontrinitarian views differ widely on the nature of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.

History

Nontrinitarianism dates back to the earliest centuries of Christianity, with the Arianism controversy arising in the fourth century as one of the most significant early departures from traditional Trinitarian doctrine. Other historical nontrinitarian views include Unitarianism, Binitarianism, and Modalism.

Modern Nontrinitarian Groups

Several modern groups reject the doctrine of the Trinity, including Jehovah's Witnesses, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Oneness Pentecostals, and certain Unitarian Universalist congregations. These groups have distinct and varied beliefs about the nature of God and the identity of Jesus and the Holy Spirit.

Theological Differences

Nontrinitarian beliefs often differ significantly from mainstream Christian doctrine. For example, Jehovah's Witnesses believe that Jesus is God's only direct creation and the Holy Spirit is God's active force, rather than a person. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches that God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit are distinct beings united in purpose.

Criticism and Controversy

Nontrinitarian beliefs have been subject to criticism and controversy within Christianity. Many mainstream Christian denominations consider nontrinitarian beliefs to be heretical, and there has been a long history of conflict and debate over these issues.

See Also

• Arianism
• Unitarianism
• Binitarianism
• Modalism
• Jehovah's Witnesses
• The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
• Oneness Pentecostals
• Unitarian Universalist

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  A depiction of Arius at the First Council of Nicaea
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  Ancient Egyptian artifact
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  Tricephale altar at Musée Saint-Remi, Reims