The concept of "The One" in the Bible is often associated with the singularity and uniqueness of God, His sovereignty, and His role as the ultimate authority and creator. This entry explores the biblical understanding of "The One" as it pertains to God, Jesus Christ, and the unity of believers.

God as The One

The Bible consistently emphasizes the oneness of God, affirming His unique and unparalleled nature. In Deuteronomy 6:4, known as the Shema, it is declared, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is One." This foundational statement underscores the monotheistic belief central to the faith of Israel and later Christianity. The oneness of God signifies His indivisibility and the exclusivity of His divine nature.

Isaiah 45:5 further reinforces this concept: "I am the LORD, and there is no other; there is no God but Me." This passage highlights God's sovereignty and the futility of idolatry, affirming that He alone is worthy of worship and reverence.

Jesus Christ as The One

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is often identified with the concept of "The One" in His role as the Messiah and the Son of God. John 1:14 states, "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the One and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." Here, Jesus is recognized as the unique and singular manifestation of God in human form, embodying divine grace and truth.

Colossians 1:15-17 further elaborates on Christ's preeminence: "The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities. All things were created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together." This passage affirms Jesus as the central figure in creation and the sustainer of all existence, emphasizing His unique role in God's redemptive plan.

The Unity of Believers

The concept of "The One" also extends to the unity of believers in Christ. In Ephesians 4:4-6, the Apostle Paul writes, "There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." This passage highlights the unity and oneness that should characterize the Christian community, reflecting the singular nature of God and His purposes.

The prayer of Jesus in John 17:21 further emphasizes this unity: "that all of them may be one, Father, just as You are in Me and I am in You. May they also be in Us so that the world may believe that You sent Me." Here, the oneness of believers is presented as a testimony to the world of the divine mission and identity of Jesus.

Conclusion

The biblical concept of "The One" encompasses the unique and sovereign nature of God, the singular role of Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Savior, and the unity of believers as a reflection of divine oneness. This theme is woven throughout Scripture, affirming the centrality of God and His purposes in the life of faith.