The concept of Co-eternal Word in Christianity
The keyphrase "Co-eternal Word" in Protestantism and Catholicism signifies the concept of God's eternal presence and creative power. In Protestantism, it highlights God's method of creation, linking it with the co-eternal Spirit. Conversely, the Catholic Church interprets it as God's Word being eternally present and predestining future events while existing alongside the Father, emphasizing its crucial role in the divine essence. Overall, the Co-eternal Word represents a fundamental aspect of both theological traditions regarding the nature of God.
Synonyms: Logos, Divine word, Eternal word, Word of god
In Spanish: Palabra coeterna; In Finnish: Yhteinen ikuinen Sana; In Dutch: Co-eeuwig Woord; In Swedish: Samevigt Ord; In Malay: Firman yang kekal bersama; In German: Mitewiges Wort
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'Co-eternal Word'
From: Summa Theologica (English translation)
(1) The understanding that the Word exists simultaneously with the Father and is integral to the divine essence.[1]
From: The city of God
(1) This phrase refers to the idea that God's word is eternally present, predestining and fixing what will happen in its own time, as mentioned in the text.[2]
From: The Second Helvetic Confession
(1) This is how God created all things, both visible and invisible, and is mentioned in conjunction with the co-eternal Spirit, as part of the divine creative act.[3]
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) The co-eternal Word, proceeding from the divine, is to be praised, and is associated with wisdom and grace, and should guide life and its fulfillment.[4]
The concept of Co-eternal Word in local and regional sources
The Co-eternal Word, central to the Trinity, signifies the divine aspect that collaborates in creation, establishing the foundational order of all things in the universe.
From: Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England
(1) The co-eternal Word is a part of the Trinity, and is the one that helped create the order of all things.[5]