ROOT 3

Three (3) is a very special number in Maths and its uniqueness is demonstrated by its square root value. The value produced by the square root of 3 is a positive real number when multiplied by itself gives 3. In fact, it’s the only number which is both a prime number and an odd number to have its square root value multiplied by itself to get 3.

As we celebrate Christmas in a few days’ time, I want to take this opportunity to remind us of the importance of God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit in relation to the number 3 as well as other demonstration of 3’s importance in the Bible. 3 is a complete number.

I think, when God was going to create human being, He has 3 in His mind. Man is created to be composed of Body, Soul and Spirit (Gen. 2:7, Zechariah 12:1) – these 3 elements make us human.

It is of no coincidence that Esther declared fast for 3 days and 3 nights (Esther 4:16) before she went to talk to the king. Jonah was in the belly of the fish for 3 days (Jonah 1:17, 2:1). In Leviticus 7:16-17, we are told that leftover flesh of a sacrifice must be destroyed on the 3^rd day. In Hosea 6:2, God told us that He will revive us after two days and raise us up on the 3^rd day. The list could go on and on.

However, in the New Testament, we are told that if you are to be a true follower of Christ, you must be baptized in the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost (Matt. 28:19). You should note here that Jesus never said “in the Names”, but rather, He said “in the Name”. This is to show that God is ONE performing 3 distinct roles. Trinity was a term coined by the earlier Christians (though this term is not in the Bible) to denote this. But, the above commandment comes directly from Christ, which means that we must obey this command.

In Isaiah 9:6, the prophecy about Jesus’ birth was foretold. It is interesting to know that Jesus was referred to in this Bible verse as “the Mighty God, the everlasting Father”, which is a testament to the fact that He is God, manifested in the flesh (John 1:1-3). That is why when Peter proclaimed to the crowd to be baptized in the Name of Jesus (Acts 2:38), he was not contradicting scripture (the subject on baptism shall be discussed another time), because God is one (Deut. 6:1).

Last but not the least; we should not forget the three pillars of Christianity: the Gospel, Holiness and Service. These 3 are inseparable and as children of God, we must preach the Gospel of Repentance and Grace, and emphasize the need to live a holy life through serving. Also, noteworthy of mention are the 3 pillars of our faith: Faith, Love and Mercy (Jude 1:20-21), which we must demonstrate everyday to show that we are true followers of Christ.

In conclusion, 3 is a unique number as demonstrated throughout the Bible. As we move towards Christmas, let’s not forget the reason behind it – SALVATION. Just as the number 3 is distinct and unique, God is in 3 persons but unique. Every true Christian must know the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit and their various roles in the development of the Christian. Even the Word God is made up of 3 letters. Let us also know that this is a period of forgiveness and reconciliation. But to the Christian, forgiving someone should be an everyday activity, not only during Christmas.

May the peace of God which surpasses all understanding guide and keep your hearts during this Christmas season.