Which Church Does Not Believe in the Trinity

Introduction

The concept of the Trinity, which states that God exists as three distinct persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—is a fundamental belief in mainstream Christianity. However, there are certain denominations and sects that do not adhere to this doctrine. In this article, we will explore some of the churches and Christian groups that do not believe in the Trinity and examine their beliefs and reasoning.

1. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS)

The LDS Church, also known as the Mormon Church, does not align with the traditional Christian understanding of the Trinity. Mormons believe in a form of the Godhead where the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are distinct beings. They do not believe in the Trinitarian concept of co-equality and co-eternity. Instead, they perceive the Father and Son as separate gods who are part of a larger divine council.

2. Jehovah’s Witnesses

Jehovah’s Witnesses are another Christian group that rejects the Trinity doctrine. They believe that Jesus is the first and greatest creation of God but is not part of a triune God. According to their teachings, Jesus is a separate and distinct entity from Jehovah, the one true God. They view the Holy Spirit as Jehovah’s active force and do not consider it to be a distinct person.

3. Iglesia ni Cristo

Iglesia ni Cristo, a Christian denomination prominent in the Philippines, also does not believe in the Trinity. They hold the belief that Jesus Christ is a human being, not divine. Like Jehovah’s Witnesses, they consider the Holy Spirit to be an active force or power of God and not a separate person.

4. Oneness Pentecostals

Oneness Pentecostals, also known as Apostolic Pentecostals, reject the Trinity doctrine by advocating for a modalist view of God. According to their belief, God is solely manifested in Jesus Christ and operates in different modes or roles throughout history. They view the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as different manifestations of the same God rather than separate persons.

5. Unitarian Universalism

Unitarian Universalism is a liberal religious movement that encompasses a wide range of beliefs, including those of non-Trinitarian Christians. Unitarian Universalists do not adhere to a strict doctrine but focus on the principles of love, compassion, and a free and responsible search for truth. Some Unitarian Universalist congregations may include individuals or groups who reject the Trinity and hold diverse theological perspectives.

Conclusion

While the belief in the Trinity is central to mainstream Christianity, there are various Christian groups and denominations that do not adhere to this doctrine. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Iglesia ni Cristo, Oneness Pentecostals, and Unitarian Universalism are among those who have different understandings of God and reject the traditional Trinitarian concept. It is important to respect and understand the diversity within Christianity, as these differing beliefs contribute to the richness and complexity of the religious landscape.