‘The distinction between "only God" and "Only True God" is significant in theological discussions and can be clarified with scriptural and historical sources.
- "Only God": This phrase suggests exclusivity, meaning that there is no other deity. For instance, second-century Rabbinical Judaism, particularly the Pharisees post-Temple, taught that the Father is the only God. This perspective is rooted in monotheism, where God alone is worshipped and recognized as divine. A key source is Deuteronomy 6:4 (the Shema), which states, "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one."
- "Only True God": This term implies supremacy rather than exclusivity. Jesus' teaching refers to the Father as the "Only True God," indicating that the Father is the highest among all gods. This does not deny the existence of other divine beings but asserts the Father's supreme authority over them. John 17:3 records Jesus saying, "Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent."
- The Psalms reflect this view by portraying the Father as the supreme deity. For instance, Psalm 95:3 says, "For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods."
- Early Christian writings, such as those by the Church Fathers, emphasize this distinction. For example, in 1 Corinthians 15:28, Paul writes, "When he [Christ] has done this, then the Son himself will be made subject to him who put everything under him, so that God may be all in all."
The significant difference lies in the implication of these terms. "Only God" conveys exclusivity, a strict monotheistic view that there is no other deity but the Father. In contrast, "Only True God" conveys a hierarchical supremacy, where the Father is the supreme deity above all other gods, who will ultimately be subject to Him.
Historical and scriptural sources clearly distinguish these concepts, showing the nuanced differences in theological interpretation.’ (ChatGPT 4o)
