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Today, we’re diving into a fascinating theme in scripture: the significance of the number three. Numbers hold symbolic meaning in the Bible, and the number three appears frequently to signify completeness, harmony, and God’s divine work.
The English word "three" is recorded 485 times in the King James Bible. It occurs 410 times in the Old Testament and has 75 occurrences in the New Testament.
And as we know when something is repeated it is important. Which we know because from the Holy Trinity to Jesus’ resurrection on the third day, the number three symbolizes God’s perfect plan. We’ll look at some examples to see how God uses this number to show His presence, purpose, and power.
Ecclesiastes 4:12: “A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.”
The Trinity consists of three distinct persons – the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit – who are one God. Each person of the Trinity is fully God, yet they are distinct in their roles and relationships. The Father is the creator and source of all things, the Son is the redeemer and savior of humanity, and the Holy Spirit is the helper and guide who empowers believers.
The concept of three-in-one is unique to our faith and shows us how each part of the Trinity is distinct yet united in purpose. It’s a reminder of God’s presence in every aspect of our lives—Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer.
Matthew 28:19 says, “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” The Trinity is the ultimate example of completeness, unity, and divine harmony.
When we embrace the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in our lives, we experience God’s fullness. This unity gives us strength, guidance, and love from every angle. We should have the Trinity involved in our day-to-day moments for support and wisdom.
The third day represents victory and a new life. It’s a number that emphasizes God’s ability to bring life out of death, hope out of despair. Jesus’ resurrection on the third day shows that no situation is too hopeless for God’s intervention.
1 Corinthians 15:4 (NLT) says, “He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said.” The resurrection is a profound example of God’s power revealed through the number three.
God brings restoration and hope to any situation. Think of Lazarus who had died and was in the grave for 4 days and Jesus came and brought Him back to life to show that He brings restoration and life to all in His timing. Trust in His timing and know that He is always working, even when we can’t see it.
Peter denied Jesus three times before the crucifixion, yet after His resurrection, Jesus gave Peter three opportunities to affirm his love. This is a beautiful picture of God’s forgiveness and restoration, even when we fall short. Thank goodness for the love of God and His forgiveness.
John 21:17 says, “A third time he asked him, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?’ Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, ‘Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.’”
If you’ve made mistakes or feel distant from God, remember that He gives second, third, and fourth chances. God is eager to restore us. Just as He restored Peter, He will restore and renew our relationship with Him. I am so thankful for the grace of God and His willingness to forgive my mistakes. He knows us better than we know ourselves and because He is our creator He knew that He would have to give us grace over and over again.
The number three represents God’s completeness, His power to restore, and His presence in our lives. Thank you, Lord, for the way you work in our lives and for sending your son and the Spirit to save and guide us.
As you go through your day, think about how God’s completeness surrounds you. Know that He is working in every area of your life and that His plans for you are whole, good, and full of purpose.
Let’s end with Psalm 33:11: “But the Lord’s plans stand firm forever; his intentions can never be shaken.” God’s plans are complete and unshakable—just like His purpose shown through the number three.