Foundations of Catholicism: The Blessed Trinity

Vocabulary flashcards covering key Trinitarian theology terms, definitions, and distinctions from Foundations of Catholicism Chapter 2, Lessons 3-4.

Blessed Trinity

The central mystery of Christian faith: one God in three divine Persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Person

In Trinitarian theology, a distinct "Who." The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are distinct Persons, while each is fully God.

Nature

What something is. God possesses one divine nature.

Substance

The underlying reality or essence of a thing. The three divine Persons possess the one divine substance.

Essence

What makes something what it is. God has one divine essence or being.

Consubstantial

"Of the same substance." The Son possesses the same divine nature as the Father.

Monotheism

Belief in one God. Christianity is monotheistic even though the one God exists eternally as three Persons.

Divine Revelation

God's communication of himself and his saving plan to humanity. The mystery of the Trinity is known because God reveals it.

Incarnation

The eternal Son of God assumed a human nature and became man in Jesus Christ without ceasing to be God.

Typology

Reading Old Testament persons, events, and images as preparations or patterns that find a greater fulfillment in Christ and the New Covenant.

Nicene Creed

An early Church statement of faith that calls the Son consubstantial with the Father, affirming that Jesus is true God possessing the same divine nature.

Nature vs. Person Distinction

In Trinitarian theology, nature answers the question "WHAT?" (one divine nature) while Person answers the question "WHO?" (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit).