31. Community of Three

Key Bible Verses: Chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by his blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance. (I Peter 1:2 NIV)

Have you ever thought of chess in terms of community? It requires several pieces from one side working in relationship with each other to accomplish an objective. Here is an example of a White rook (Re2), bishop (Bh6) and knight (Nc6) working together to overcome the opposition.  Each piece has its own unique function yet represents one side. What is White’s next move to make it checkmate? Notice that to take any one piece away deprives victory. It takes a community of three.

In the last lesson we learned there is one true God. In addition, the Bible indicates that the essence of this one true God is three persons working in community: known by the theological description, “Trinity”. This may sound a bit complicated, but, try to follow me. The scripture verse above indicates that God the Father has a plan (pre-knowledge) of what it takes for each individual to be “chosen” to spend eternity with him. God the Holy Spirit is active in our lives to encourage and empower each of us to follow the Father’s plan: which is to be set apart (initially “sanctified’) from a life without God to a life with God. This is made possible, not by our own efforts, but, by God the Son’s sacrifice of death (“sprinkling of his blood”). A key factor is our “obedience” of believing through faith in him (see John 3:16).  There is much more to be said about this One God Community (Trinity). We will look at specific aspects in future Life Lessons from Chess. In summary, victory (eternal life) is possible when we believe in the community work of the one true God.

My response: Lord, thank you for the plan you have for my life. Continue to reveal yourself to me in your fullness.

Thought to Apply: Today I will keep in mind that the undivided essence of the one true God is three persons: the Father, Son and Holy Spirit who are co-equal in power and glory.