Modalism / Oneness
The denial of the Trinity — claiming God is one person who manifests in different 'modes'
What Is It?
Modalism (also called Sabellianism or Oneness theology) denies the Trinity by teaching that Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are not three distinct persons but rather three 'modes' or 'manifestations' of one divine person. In this view, God sometimes appears as Father, sometimes as Son, and sometimes as Spirit — like an actor wearing different masks. This ancient heresy was condemned by the early church councils and contradicts the clear biblical testimony that the Father, Son, and Spirit exist simultaneously and relate to one another as distinct persons.
Key Errors
- Denies the Trinity — three persons in one God
- Claims God is one person in three modes
- Cannot explain Jesus praying to the Father
- Cannot explain the Father speaking about the Son
- Condemned as heresy by early church councils
Scripture Refutation
Matthew 3:16-17
“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 alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, 'This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.'”
All three persons of the Trinity are present simultaneously — the Son is baptized, the Spirit descends, and the Father speaks.
John 17:5
“And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began.”
Jesus speaks of a relationship with the Father that existed before creation — impossible if they are the same person.
John 14:16-17
“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever — the Spirit of truth.”
Jesus (the Son) asks the Father to send the Spirit — three distinct persons interacting.
2 Corinthians 13:14
“May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”
Paul's benediction distinguishes all three persons.
Historical Context
Modalism was taught by Sabellius in the 3rd century and was condemned at various church councils. It has been revived in modern times primarily through Oneness Pentecostalism (founded early 20th century), which denies the Trinity and practices 'Jesus only' baptism. Notable Oneness teachers include T.D. Jakes (whose Trinitarian views remain unclear despite public statements) and the United Pentecostal Church International.
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