How many is one?

Seems like a pretty straight forward question.  One, after all, is only…one.  Whether it’s infinite or infinitessimal, it’s still just one.  But that’s the cool thing about it.  Everyone knows what one means!

The Bible makes clear that God is one.  And not just one, but one and only.  (see for example 2 Kings 19:15 and Psalms 86:10)  In fact, the central theme of the Bible is the worship of and devotion to only one God.  This point is made especially profound when that worship shifts from one God to many gods.  Great suffering was the result.

And then along came Christ Jesus.  Not only did he know from deep inside that God is one, but he made the profound and startling statement that he was one with God.  (see John 10:30)  The Jews were prepared to stone him for such a ridiculous and blasphemous outburst.  Yet, Jesus proved the validity of his words.  He made plain God’s declaration that everything is good by revealing that same goodness in healing and redemption.  (see Genesis 1:31)  He upheld God’s deep love for mankind through forgiveness and restoration.

And then he had the audacity to say “He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also.”  (see John 14:12)  I think that he was suggesting to his students and followers that they too, were one with God.

Imagine that for a moment.  Consider the implications.  One God.  God’s children one with Him.  Not many with Him, but one.  Mary Baker Eddy understood just how amazing that singularity is when she wrote, “One infinite God, good, unifies men and nations; constitutes the brotherhood of man; ends wars; fulfils the Scripture, ‘Love thy neighbor as thyself;’ annihilates pagan and Christian idolatry, — whatever is wrong in social, civil, criminal, political, and religious codes; equalizes the sexes; annuls the curse on man, and leaves nothing that can sin, suffer, be punished or destroyed.”  (see Science and Health page 340:23)

Infinite oneness.  How many is one?

Melissa Hayden is a Christian Science practitioner in Salem, OR. You can find more information and additional articles at this link.  If you like what you’re reading, click the “add me” button.