Christian Creeds (Part 2)

2. The Nicene Creed (The Niceno-Constantinopolitan Creed)
The Nicene Creed was adopted in the First Council of Nicaea (325) and revised at the First Council of Constantinople (381). Both versions were adopted as reaction to theological controversies.

The original version was a response to Arianism - the teaching that the Son does not equal the Father. Thus it stressed their equality.

The original version of the Nicene Creed (English translation):

We believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of all things visible and invisible.

And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, begotten of the Father the only-begotten; that is, of the essence of the Father, God of God, Light of Light, very God of very God, begotten, not made, being of one substance with the Father; by whom all things were made both in heaven and on earth; who for us men, and for our salvation, came down and was incarnate and was made man; he suffered, and the third day he rose again, ascended into heaven; from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.

And in the Holy Ghost.

But those who say: 'There was a time when he was not;' and 'He was not before he was made;' and 'He was made out of nothing,' or 'He is of another substance' or 'essence,' or 'The Son of God is created,' or 'changeable,' or 'alterable' — they are condemned by the holy catholic and apostolic Church.

The original version of this creed did not say much about the Holy Spirit. In the revised version, the description of the Holy Spirit was added - as a response to the teaching of Eustaphius (Pneumatomachianism) - the teaching that the Holy Spirit does not equal the Father (though some Pneumatomachians also denied that the Son equals the Father). This description does not speaks directly that the Holy Spirit is God. However, it implies that.

The text of the Niceno-Constantinopolitan Creed (revised version of the Nicene Creed):

We believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible.

And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, begotten of the Father before all worlds, Light of Light, very God of very God, begotten, not made, being of one substance with the Father; by whom all things were made; who for us men, and for our salvation, came down from heaven, and was incarnate by the Holy Ghost of the Virgin Mary, and was made man; he was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate, and suffered, and was buried, and the third day he rose again, according to the Scriptures, and ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of the Father; from thence he shall come again, with glory, to judge the quick and the dead; whose kingdom shall have no end.

And in the Holy Ghost, the Lord and Giver of life, who proceedeth from the Father, who with the Father and the Son together is worshiped and glorified, who spake by the prophets. In one holy catholic and apostolic Church; we acknowledge one baptism for the remission of sins; we look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.

This version is different from the commonly used in the Western Church. Synod in Toledo, Spain in 589 added the words "and from the Son" (filioque) to the processing of the Holy Spirit. The Eastern Church has never agreed with this change.

The text of the commonly used in the Western Church version of the Nicene (Niceno-Constantinopolitan) Creed:

I believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible.

And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, begotten of the Father before all worlds; God of God, Light of Light, very God of very God; begotten, not made, being of one substance with the Father, by whom all things were made.

Who, for us men and for our salvation, came down from heaven, and was incarnate by the Holy Spirit of the virgin Mary, and was made man; and was crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate; He suffered and was buried; and the third day He rose again, according to the Scriptures; and ascended into heaven, and sits on the right hand of the Father; and He shall come again, with glory, to judge the quick and the dead; whose kingdom shall have no end.

And I believe in the Holy Ghost, the Lord and Giver of Life; who proceeds from the Father and the Son; who with the Father and the Son together is worshipped and glorified; who spoke by the prophets.

And I believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. I acknowledge one baptism for the remission of sins; and I look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.

The main purpose of this creed is to declare the Trinity - the Father is God, the Son is God, and the Holy Spirit is God. However, in some ways, its statements are not sufficient. This creed does not states clearly that there is only one God and also that the Holy Spirit is God. The Athanasian Creed contains much more clear definition of the Trinity.

Christian Creeds (Part 1)

There are four main Christian creeds that are accepted by practically all the branches of traditional Christianity with the exception of some oriental churches (Armenian, Syrian, and Coptic):
1. The Apostles' Creed
2. The Nicene Creed (The Niceno-Constantinopolitan Creed)
3. The Athanasian Creed
4. The Chalcedonian Creed

1. The Apostles' Creed
It is considered to be the oldest Christian creed that is believed to come from the apostles. This is why it has this name.

The text of the Apostles' Creed:

I believe in God, the Father Almighty,
the Maker of heaven and earth,
and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord:

Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost,
born of the virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, dead, and buried;

He descended into hell.

The third day He arose again from the dead;

He ascended into heaven,
and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty;
from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Ghost;
the holy catholic church;
the communion of saints;
the forgiveness of sins;
the resurrection of the body;
and the life everlasting.

Amen.

Many Christian theologians question Christ's descending into hell stated in this creed because the Bible does not clearly state that. All the other statements are in the agreement with the Bible and are accepted by all the branches of traditional Christianity. In this creed as well as in others, "the catholic church" is not Roman Catholic Church, but the universal church as it is presented in the New Testament.

Although this creed speaks about the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, it does not clearly state that the Son is God and the Holy Spirit is God. It does not clearly teach about the Trinity.

Basically, this creed just summarizes the main doctrines of the New Testament. It pays much attention to Christ. Many churches use this creed in their worship.

Muslim Creeds

The most famous Muslim creed is called shahada (testimony) or kalima shahada (the word of testimony). There are two variants of shahada:

1. 'Ashhadu 'al-la 'ilaha 'illa-llah wa-'ashhadu 'anna Muhammadan 'abduhu wa rasuluh.
Translation: I testify that there is no god besides Allah and I testify that Muhammad is His slave and messenger.

2. La 'ilaha 'illa-llah wa Muhammadu-r-rasulu-llah.
Translation: There is no god besides Allah and Muhammad is Allah's messenger.

Everyone who desires to become a Muslim is required to pronounce shahada. Actually, this is the only requirement. So, everyone who pronounces shahada, believing that it is true, becomes a Muslim. Muslims also often pronounce shahada in their worship and in other situations. Pronounciation of shahada is the first of the five main rituals of Islam. Others are prayer, fast in Ramadan, alms (zakat), and pilgrimage (hajj).

The first part of shahada implies not only rejection all the pagan deities, but also rejection of the Trinity. The second part implies that Muhammad is the last prophet who brought the last revelations and laws from Allah. Muslims are required to believe everything that Muhammad said and keep all his commandments.

There are also longer Muslim creeds.
1. Iman mujmal (short confession of faith)
Amantu bi-llahi wa huwa bi-'asmaihi wa-sifatihi wa-kabiltu jami'a ahkamihi wa-'arkanih.
Translation: I believe in Allah with all His names and attributes and receive all His laws and commandments.

This confession emphasizes faith in Allah and His names and attributes.

2. Iman mufassal (detailed confession of faith). It is also called "Amantu" (from the first word which means "I believe"). There are two versions of "Amantu."

1) Amantu bi-llahi wa-mala'ikatihi wa-kutubihi wa-rusulihi wa-l-yawmi-l-'ahiri wa-l-kadiri hairihi wa-sharrihi mina-llahi ta'ala wa-l-ba'si ba'da-l-mawt.
Translation: I believe in Allah, and His angels, and His books, and His messengers, and the last day, and predestination of good and evil from Allah the Most High, and resurrection after death.

2) Amantu bi-llahi wa-mala'ikatihi wa-kutubihi wa-rusulihi wa-l-yawmi-l-'ahiri wa bi-l-kadiri hairihi wa-sharrihi mina-llahi ta'ala wa-l-ba'su ba'da-l-mawti hakk. 'Ashhadu 'al-la 'ilaha 'illa-llah wa-'ashhadu 'anna Muhammadan 'abduhu wa rasuluh.
Translation: I believe in Allah, and His angels, and His books, and His messengers, and the last day, and in predestination of good and evil from Allah the Most High, and that resurrection after death is true. I testify that there is no god besides Allah and I testify that Muhammad is His slave and messenger.

"Amantu" is based on the hadith regarding Jibril (hadith 0001 from Sahih Muslim) where Jibril asked Muhammad about Islam, Iman (faith), and Ihsan (sincerity). Here is the part regarding faith:

He (the inquirer) said: Inform me about Iman (faith). He (the Holy Prophet) replied: That you affirm your faith in Allah, in His angels, in His Books, in His Apostles, in the Day of Judgment, and you affirm your faith in the Divine Decree about good and evil.

Here instead of "Apostles" should be "messengers."

So, according to Islam, the main points of faith are:
1. Allah
2. His angels
3. His books (Holy Scriptures)
4. His messengers and prophets
5. The Day of Judgment
6. Allah's predestination of everything good and evil

According to Sunni theology, there are two stages of faith:
1. Ijmali iman (general faith) - faith in the two point of shahada.
2. Tafsili iman (detailed faith) - faith in ever point of of "Amantu." A person who denies even one of them is not considered to be a Muslim.

Arguments for God's Existence

Both Christian and Muslim theology contain a number of arguments for God's existence. Actually, they are not so convincing for atheists and there are refutations of them. These refutations, in turn, have some weaknesses and also can be refuted. So, theists (those who believe in God) and atheists cannot convince one another by these arguments or their refutations. However, these arguments give theists logical foundation of their faith. I have no intention to convince atheist to believe in God and post these arguments only as a part of theology.

There are four main arguments for God's existence in Christian theology. Other arguments are based on them. The same is, actually, with arguments for God's existence in Muslim theology.

1. Cosmological argument
The fact of the existence of the universe testifies that God exists; the universe is consequence, and God is the cause.

There may be three causes of the existence of the universe:
1. Eternal matter and eternal universe.
2. Accidence as the eternal cause (impersonal cause).
3. Eternal God (Person).

The first variant contradicts the laws of thermodynamics and lost popularity. The second and the third variants are both matters of faith - faith in impersonal evolution or faith in the personal God.

2. Teleological argument
The world is in order. We can see order, purpose, and design in it. This causes us to think that there is the one who designed it - its Creator.

3. Anthropological argument
Human being is a living being, has mind and morality. His existence indicates the existence of the wise, living, and righteous God.

4. Ontological argument
We have a concept of the most perfect Being. The concept of Him involves His existence because something that does not exist is not so perfect as something that exists. Consequently, the most perfect Being must exist.

In the Muslim theology, there are also two arguments for the existence of the only one God. I did not find them in the Christian theology.

1. Burhani Tamanu
Suppose, there are two Gods who equal one another in everything. They both are free in expression of their will and in their power. Suppose, one of them wants a man to move and the other wants a man to rest. There are only three possibilities:
1. The will of each of them is fulfilled. However, this is impossible.
2. The will of neither of them is fulfilled. This means that both of them are not almighty because they cannot fulfill their will. So, this means that neither of them is God.
3. The will of one of them is fulfilled. This means that the other one is not almighty because his will is not fulfilled. However, both of them are equal to one another. It means that both of them are not almighty and consequently neither of them is God.
So, all the three possibilities are wrong.

If the two Gods come to the mutual agreement, it may mean:
1. Their union is forced. Then, both of them are limited in their power, but God cannot be limited.
2. Their union is voluntary, that is, one God willingly submit to another God. Then, the submissive God:
1) is able to contradict the other God. Then, they will fight with one another (see above);
2) is unable to contradict the other God. Then, it means that he is not almighty. The other God is completely equal to the submissive one. It means that he is not almighty either and neither of them is God;
3) has power to contradict, but has no choice, that is, limited in his will. Then, he is also not God.

2. Burhani Tawarud
Suppose, there are several creators of this universe. It may mean one of the three possibilities:
1. In order to create the universe, they had to join their power. It means that none of them is almighty is none of them is God.
2. Each God created everything separately. Then, there would be the same two perfect things, for example, two suns. However, it is useless to create the existing unique thing again.
3. Everything was created by one creator without the others' participation. This means that they were limited in their will and choice. So, they did not create anything. However, all of them are equal. This means that the first one did not create anything either. Then, this world would not exist.

God's Attributes in the Bible

God's attributes in the Protestant theology are based on the Bible. In the beginning, I would like to quote what two of the Protestant confessions say about God.

We all believe in our hearts and confess with our mouths that there is a single and simple spiritual being, whom we call God -- eternal, incomprehensible, invisible, unchangeable, infinite, almighty; completely wise, just, and good, and the overflowing source of all good. (The Belgic Confession, article 1)

I. There is but one only living and true God, who is infinite in being and perfection, a most pure spirit, invisible, without body, parts, or passions, immutable, immense, eternal, incomprehensible, almighty, most wise, most holy, most free, most absolute, working all things according to the counsel of his own immutable and most righteous will, for his own glory, most loving, gracious, merciful, long-suffering, abundant in goodness and truth, forgiving iniquity, transgression, and sin; the rewarder of them that diligently seek him; and withal most just and terrible in his judgments; hating all sin; and who will by no means clear the guilty.

II. God hath all life, glory, goodness, blessedness, in and of himself; and is alone in and unto himself all-sufficient, not standing in need of any creatures which he hath made, nor deriving any glory from them, but only manifesting his own glory in, by, unto, and upon them; he is the alone foundation of all being, of whom, through whom, and to whom, are all things; and hath most sovereign dominion over them, to do by them, for them, or upon them, whatsoever himself pleaseth. In his sight all things are open and manifest; his knowledge is infinite, infallible, and independent upon the creature; so as nothing is to him contingent or uncertain. He is most holy in all his counsels, in all his works, and in all his commands. To him is due from angels and men, and every other creature, whatsoever worship, service, or obedience he is pleased to require of them. (The Westminster Confession of Faith, chapter II)

These two confessions mention a number of God's attributes.

There are several classifications of God's attributes. Most among Protestant theologians divide God's attributes into communicable and incommunicable. The incommunicable attributes belong only to God (for example, eternity, immensity), while the communicable attributes to some extend may belong to people (for example, wisdom and justice). However, there are some difficulties with putting some of God's attributes into one of these groups. For example, God is omniscient, that is, He knows everything. Human being has some knowledge, but human knowledge is limited. Human being has the attribute of knowledge, but not the attribute of omniscience.

There are similar difficulties with other classifications. So, many theologians do not use these classifications.

1. Personality
God is a Person. He has self-consciousness and self-determination. He has attributes of personality - mind, emotions, and will. He can speak, see, hear.

God said to Moses, "I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me to you.'" (Exodus 3:14)

But he stands alone, and who can oppose him? He does whatever he pleases. (Job 23:13)

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16)

And God said, "Let there be light," and there was light. (Genesis 1:3)

2. Spirituality
God's nature is spiritual. He is not physical.

God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth. (John 4:24)

3. Invisibility
God is invisible.

No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father's side, has made him known. (John 1:18)

Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen. (1 Timothy 1:17)

4. Life
God is living.

But the LORD is the true God; he is the living God, the eternal King. When he is angry, the earth trembles; the nations cannot endure his wrath. (Jeremiah 10:10)

For they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God. (1 Thessalonians 1:9)

5. Independence (aseity)
God does not need people or any other creatures. However, people can praise and worship Him.

24 "The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands.
25 And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else." (Acts 17:24-25)

6. Immutability
God is immutable in His being, attributes, intentions, and promises.

But you remain the same, and your years will never end. (Psalm 102:27)

I the LORD do not change. So you, O descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed. (Malachi 3:6)

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. (James 1:17)

7. Eternity
God has no beginning nor end.

Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. (Psalm 90:2)

The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. He will drive out your enemy before you, saying, 'Destroy him!' (Deuteronomy 33:27)

For this is what the high and lofty One says — he who lives forever, whose name is holy: "I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite." (Isaiah 57:15)

But the LORD is the true God; he is the living God, the eternal King. When he is angry, the earth trembles; the nations cannot endure his wrath. (Jeremiah 10:10)

8. Omnipresence
God is everywhere at the same time.

23 "Am I only a God nearby," declares the LORD, "and not a God far away?
24 Can anyone hide in secret places so that I cannot see him?" declares the LORD. "Do not I fill heaven and earth?" declares the LORD. (Jeremiah 23:23-24)

7 Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?
8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea,
10 even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. (Psalm 139:7-10)

9. Immensity
God is not limited by space, has no sizes or dimensions.

But will God really dwell on earth? The heavens, even the highest heaven, cannot contain you. How much less this temple I have built! (1 Kings 8:27)

10. Unity (unitas singularitas)
God is one.

Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. (Deuteronomy 6:4)

For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. (1 Timothy 2:5)

11. Simplicity (unitas simplicitas)
God does not consist of any parts or components. Neither does He consist of His attributes.

God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth. (John 4:24)

12. Truthfulness
God is true in His nature and also in His words and actions.

But the LORD is the true God; he is the living God, the eternal King. When he is angry, the earth trembles; the nations cannot endure his wrath. (Jeremiah 10:10)

We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true — even in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. (1 John 5:20)

13. Faithfulness
God is faithful in His promises.

Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. (Hebrews 10:23)

Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands. (Deuteronomy 7:9)

14. Omniscience
God knows everything.

Do you know how the clouds hang poised, those wonders of him who is perfect in knowledge? (Job 37:16)

15. Wisdom
God uses His knowledge in the best way in order to fulfill His purpose.

To the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen. (Romans 16:27)

16. Holiness
God is different from everything and is separated from sin.

For this is what the high and lofty One says — he who lives forever, whose name is holy: "I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite." (Isaiah 57:15)

There is no one holy like the LORD; there is no one besides you; there is no Rock like our God. (1 Samuel 2:2)

17. Righteousness

Lord, you are righteous, but this day we are covered with shame—the men of Judah and people of Jerusalem and all Israel, both near and far, in all the countries where you have scattered us because of our unfaithfulness to you. (Daniel 9:7)

The LORD is righteous in all his ways and loving toward all he has made. (Psalm 144:17)

18. Justice
God is just toward everyone.

For God does not show favoritism. (Romans 2:11)

19. Omnipotence
God is almighty.

I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac and to Jacob as God Almighty, but by my name the LORD I did not make myself known to them. (Exodus 6:3)

20. Sovereignty
God is sovereign in His position and authority.

To the LORD your God belong the heavens, even the highest heavens, the earth and everything in it. (Deuteronomy 10:14)

Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. (Chronicles 29:12)

21. Perfection
God is perfect in everything.

Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. (Matthew 5:48)

22. Goodness
God is the highest standard of good. All His works are worthy to be approved.

"Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good—except God alone." (Luke 18:19)

For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. (Psalm 100:5)

23. Love

Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. (1 John 4:8)

And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. (1 John 4:16)

24. Hatred
God hates sin.

The LORD examines the righteous, but the wicked and those who love violence his soul hates. (Psalm 11:5)

Because of all their wickedness in Gilgal, I hated them there. Because of their sinful deeds, I will drive them out of my house. I will no longer love them; all their leaders are rebellious. (Hosea 9:15)

25. Grace
God kindly deals with people who do not deserve that.

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God. (Ephesians 2:8)

26. Mercy
God is compassionate to people who are guilty or who suffer.

For the LORD your God is a merciful God; he will not abandon or destroy you or forget the covenant with your forefathers, which he confirmed to them by oath. (Deuteronomy 4:31)

As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy. (James 5:11)

27. Long-suffering
God is patient to those who upset or provoke Him.

But you, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. (Psalm 86:15)

He prayed to the LORD, "O LORD, is this not what I said when I was still at home? That is why I was so quick to flee to Tarshish. I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity. (Jonah 4:2)

28. Peace (order)

For God is not a God of disorder but of peace. (1 Corinthians 14:33)

29. Jealousy
God's jealousy means that He always defends His honor.

You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me. (Exodus 20:5)

30. Will
God decides what to do and what not to do.

In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will. (Ephesians 1:11)

"You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being." (Revelation 4:11)

31. Freedom
God does what He wants.

Our God is in heaven; he does whatever pleases him. (Psalm 115:3)

All the peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing. He does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back his hand or say to him: "What have you done?" (Daniel 4:35)

32. Bliss
God is fully satisfied with Himself and everything that reflects His attributes.

Which God will bring about in his own time—God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords. (1 Timothy 6:15)

That conforms to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which he entrusted to me. (1 Timothy 1:11)

33. Beauty
God is full of desired attributes.

One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. (Psalm 27:4)

34. Glory

Everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made. (Isaiah 43:7)

Other Concepts of the Trinity

The Biblical teaching of the Trinity consists of the three main points:
1. God is three Persons - the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
2. Each Person is complete God.
3. God is one.
All the unbiblical concepts deny, at least, one of these points. These concepts are considered to be heresies by the main part of Christians.

1. Modalism (modalist monarchism, Sabellianism)
Modalism teaches that there is only one Person that appears in three forms. In the Old Testament, this Person was the Father. In the Gospels, this Person was the Son. After the Day of Pentecost, this Person is the Holy Spirit.

Modalism contradicts some biblical verses, for example:

16 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him.
17 And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased." (Matthew 3:16-17, New International Version)

Jesus (the Son) was baptized in the water. The Holy Spirit descended from the heavens. The Father was speaking from the heavens. All the three Persons were there at the same time.

2. Dynamic monarchism
Dynamic monarchism taught that Jesus was not God, but was a common man. Sometimes God came upon him, and he carried out God's work.

This teaching contradicts John, chapter 1:

1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
2 He was with God in the beginning.
14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:1,2,14, New International Version)

The Word is Christ. He was God in the beginning and became a man in time.

3. Arianism
Arianism denies the full divinity of the Son and the Holy Spirit. It teaches that the Son was created. This teaching contradicts the same verses from John, chapter 1.

4. Adoptianism
Adoptionism taught that Jesus lived as a common man, but then God adopted him and gave him supernatural power. This teaching also contradicts chapter 1 of John.

5. Subordinationism
Subordinationism teaches that the Son is eternal and divine, but still not equal to God and subordinate to the Father.

5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped,
7 but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.
8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death — even death on a cross! (Philippians 2:6-8, New International Version)

Christ (the Son) is equal to the Father as God, but He humbled Himself, becoming a man.

6. Triteism
Triteism is the teaching that the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are three different Gods. This teaching also contradicts the Bible:

Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. (Deuteronomy 6:4, New International Version)

Other Allah's Names Based on Qur'an

These names are not mentioned in Qur'an directly, but are based on what is written about Allah and His actions in some ayahs (verses) of Qur'an.

1. Al-'Adl (the Just)

And the word of your Lord has been accomplished truly and justly; there is none who can change His words, and He is the Hearing, the Knowing. (6:115, Shakir's translation)

2. Al-Ba'is (the Resurrecting)

How do you deny Allah and you were dead and He gave you life? Again He will cause you to die and again bring you to life, then you shall be brought back to Him. (2:28, Shakir's translation)

3. Al-Baki (the Eternal)

But will abide (for ever) the Face of thy Lord,- full of Majesty, Bounty and Honour. (55:27, Yusufali's translation)

4. Al-Basit (the Widening)

Who is it that will offer of Allah a goodly gift, so He will multiply it to him manifold, and Allah straitens and amplifies, and you shall be returned to Him. (2:245, Shakir's translation)

5. Ad-Dafiy (the Protector from troubles)

So they put them to flight by Allah's permission. And Dawood slew Jalut, and Allah gave him kingdom and wisdom, and taught him of what He pleased. And were it not for Allah's repelling some men with others, the earth would certainly be in a state of disorder; but Allah is Gracious to the creatures. (2:251, Shakir's translation)

6. Ad-Da'i (the Calling)

O you who believe! answer (the call of) Allah and His Messenger when he calls you to that which gives you life; and know that Allah intervenes between man and his heart, and that to Him you shall be gathered. (8:24, Shakir's translation)

7. Ad-Darr (the Harming)

What! shall I take besides Him gods whose intercession, If the Beneficent Allah should desire to afflict me with a harm, shall not avail me aught, nor shall they be able to deliver me? (36:23, Shakir's translation)

8. Al-Fasil (the Distinguishing)

Surely those who believe and those who are Jews and the Sabeans and the Christians and the Magians and those who associate (others with Allah)-- surely Allah will decide between them on the day of resurrection; surely Allah is a witness over all things. (22:17, Shakir's translation)

9. Al-Fattah (the Opening)

And if the people of the towns had believed and guarded (against evil) We would certainly have opened up for them blessings from the heaven and the earth, but they rejected, so We overtook them for what they had earned. (7:96, Shakir's translation)

10. Al-Hadi (the Leading the right way)

And that those on whom knowledge has been bestowed may learn that the (Qur'an) is the Truth from thy Lord, and that they may believe therein, and their hearts may be made humbly (open) to it: for verily Allah is the Guide of those who believe, to the Straight Way. (22:54, Yusufali's translation)

11. Al-Hafid (the Humiliating)

Abasing (one party), exalting (the other). (56:3, Shakir's translation)

12. Al-Hasib (the Counting)

Those who deliver the messages of Allah and fear Him, and do not fear any one but Allah; and Allah is sufficient to take account. (33:39, Shakir's translation)

13. Al-Kabid (the Narrowing)

Who is it that will offer of Allah a goodly gift, so He will multiply it to him manifold, and Allah straitens and amplifies, and you shall be returned to Him. (2:245, Shakir's translation)

14. Al-Kadi (the Fulfilling His order)

Wonderful Originator of the heavens and the earth, and when He decrees an affair, He only says to it, Be, so there it is. (2:117, Shakir's translation)

15. Al-Kadim (the Warning)

He saith: Contend not in My presence, when I had already proffered unto you the warning. (50:28, Pickthal's translation)

16. Al-Ka'fi (the Sufficient)

Is not Allah sufficient for His servant? And they seek to frighten you with those besides Him; and whomsoever Allah makes err, there is no guide for him. (39:36, Shakir's translation)

17. Al-Kasim (the Distributor)

Will they distribute the mercy of your Lord? We distribute among them their livelihood in the life of this world, and We j have exalted some of them above others in degrees, that some of them may take others in subjection; and the mercy of your Lord is better than what they amass. (43:32, Shakir's translation)

18. Al-Malja (the Sheltering)

And to the three who were left behind, until the earth became strait to them notwithstanding its spaciousness and their souls were also straitened to them; and they knew it for certain that there was no refuge from Allah but in Him; then He turned to them (mercifully) that they might turn (to Him); surely Allah is the Oft-returning (to mercy), the Merciful. (9:118, Shakir's translation)

19. Al-Mu'ahhir (the Moving back)

And if Allah had destroyed men for their iniquity, He would not leave on the earth a single creature, but He respites them till an appointed time; so when their doom will come they shall not be able to delay (it) an hour nor can they bring (it) on (before its time). (16:61, Shakir's translation)

20. Al-Mu'azzib (the Punishing)

None punisheth as He will punish on that day! (89:25, Pickthal's translation)

21. Al-Mubayyin (the Explaining)

Allah thus makes clear to you His communications that you may understand. (2:242, Shakir's translation)

22. Al-Mubashshir (the Speaking a good news)

That is of which Allah gives the good news to His servants, (to) those who believe and do good deeds. Say: I do not ask of you any reward for it but love for my near relatives; and whoever earns good, We give him more of good therein; surely Allah is Forgiving, Grateful. (42:23, Shakir's translation)

23. Al-Mubki (the Making weep)

And that He it is Who makes (men) laugh and makes (them) weep. (53:43, Shakir's translation)

24. Al-Mudabbir (the Sovereign)

Surely your Lord is Allah, Who created the heavens and the earth in six periods, and He is firm in power, regulating the affair, there is no intercessor except aher His permission; this is Allah, your Lord, therefore serve Him; will you not then mind? (10:3, Shakir's translation)

25. Al-Mudhik (the Making laugh)

And that He it is Who makes (men) laugh and makes (them) weep. (53:43, Shakir's translation)

26. Al-Mufawwi (the Fulfilling His Promises)

Therefore be not in doubt as to what these worship; they do not worship but as their fathers worshipped before; and most surely We will pay them back in full their portion undiminished. (11:109, Shakir's translation)

27. Al-Mugni (the Enriching)

And that He it is Who enriches and gives to hold. (53:48, Shakir's translation)

28. Al-Muhsi (the Counting)

Certainly He has a comprehensive knowledge of them and He has numbered them a (comprehensive) numbering. (19:94, Shakir's translation)

29. Al-Muhsin (the Merciful)

He specially chooses for His mercy whom He pleases; and Allah is the Lord of mighty grace. (3:74, SHakir's translation)

30. Al-Muhyi (the Reviving)

He gives life and causes death, and to Him you shall be brought back. (10:56, Shakir's translation)

31. Al-Mujib (the Responding)

And when My servants ask you concerning Me, then surely I am very near; I answer the prayer of the suppliant when he calls on Me, so they should answer My call and believe in Me that they may walk in the right way. (2:186, Shakir's translation)

32. Al-Mukaddim (the Moving forward)

And if Allah had destroyed men for their iniquity, He would not leave on the earth a single creature, but He respites them till an appointed time; so when their doom will come they shall not be able to delay (it) an hour nor can they bring (it) on (before its time). (16:61, Shakir's translation)

33. Al-Mukallib (the Turning)

And We will turn their hearts and their sights, even as they did not believe in it the first time, and We will leave them in their inordinacy, blindly wandering on. (6:110, Shakir's translation)

34. Al-Mukmil (the Completing)

Forbidden to you is that which dies of itself, and blood, and flesh of swine, and that on which any other name than that of Allah has been invoked, and the strangled (animal) and that beaten to death, and that killed by a fall and that killed by being smitten with the horn, and that which wild beasts have eaten, except what you slaughter, and what is sacrificed on stones set up (for idols) and that you divide by the arrows; that is a transgression. This day have those who disbelieve despaired of your religion, so fear them not, and fear Me. This day have I perfected for you your religion and completed My favor on you and chosen for you Islam as a religion; but whoever is compelled by hunger, not inclining willfully to sin, then surely Allah is Forgiving, Merciful. (5:3, Shakir's translation)

35. Al-Muntakim (the Avenging)

Then when they displeased Us, We inflicted a retribution on them, so We drowned them all together. (43:55, Shakir's translation)

36. Al-Musawwa (the Fashioning)

Who created thee, then fashioned, then proportioned thee? (82:7, Pickthal's translation)

37. Al-Muste'an (the Helper)

He said: O my Lord! judge Thou with truth; and our Lord is the Beneficent Allah, Whose help is sought against what you ascribe (to Him). (21:112, Shakir's translation)

38. Al-Muta'ahir (the Purifying)

When He caused calm to fall on you as a security from Him and sent down upon you water from the cloud that He might thereby purify you, and take away from you the uncleanness of the Shaitan, and that He might fortify your hearts and steady (your) footsteps thereby. (8:11, Shakir's translation)

39. Al-Muta'ali (the Highest)

Supremely exalted is therefore Allah, the King, the Truth, and do not make haste with the Quran before its revelation is made complete to you and say: O my Lord! increase me in knowledge. (20:114, Shakir's translation)

40. Al-Muyassir (the Relieving)

The month of Ramazan is that in which the Quran was revealed, a guidance to men and clear proofs of the guidance and the distinction; therefore whoever of you is present in the month, he shall fast therein, and whoever is sick or upon a journey, then (he shall fast) a (like) number of other days; Allah desires ease for you, and He does not desire for you difficulty, and (He desires) that you should complete the number and that you should exalt the greatness of Allah for His having guided you and that you may give thanks. (2:185, Shakir's translation)

41. Al-Muzakki (the Purifying)

Have you not considered those who attribute purity to themselves? Nay, Allah purifies whom He pleases; and they shall not be wronged the husk of a date stone. (4:49, Shakir's translation)

42. Al-Muzayyin (the Decorating)

And know that the messenger of Allah is among you. If he were to obey you in much of the government, ye would surely be in trouble; but Allah hath endeared the faith to you and hath beautified it in your hearts, and hath made disbelief and lewdness and rebellion hateful unto you. Such are they who are the rightly guided. (49:7, Pickthal's translation)

43. Al-Muzill (the Humiliating)

So go about in the land for four months and know that you cannot weaken Allah and that Allah will bring disgrace to the unbelievers. (9:2, Shakir)

44. An-Nasir (the Helper)

And We helped them, so they were the vanquishers. (37:116, Shakir's translation)

45. Ar-Rafi (the Exalting)

And We raised him high in Heaven. (19:57, Shakir's translation)

46. As-Sadik (the Faithful)

(This is) Allah's promise! Allah will not fail His promise, but most people do not know. (30:6, Shakir's translation)

47. As-Sa'ik (the Drawing to hell)

And We will drive the guilty to hell thirsty. (19:86, Shakir's translation)

48. As-Sani (the perfect Creator)

And thou seest the hills thou deemest solid flying with the flight of clouds: the doing of Allah Who perfecteth all things. Lo! He is Informed of what ye do. (27:88, Pickthal's translation)

49. Ash-Shafi (the Healer)

And when I sicken, then He healeth me. (26:80, Pickthal's translation)

50. Ash-Shafi' (the Intercessor)

Or have they taken intercessors besides Allah? Say: what! even though they did not ever have control over anything, nor do they understand. (39:43, Shakir's translation)

51. Ash-Sharih (the Opening)

What! is he whose heart Allah has opened for Islam so that he is in a light from his Lord (like the hard-hearted)? Nay, woe to those whose hearts are hard against the remembrance of Allah; those are in clear error. (39:22, Shakir's translation)