How many persons constitute the Godhead as per the Westminster Shorter Catechism?

The Westminster Shorter Catechism teaches that the Godhead consists of three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. This doctrine is foundational to the understanding of the Holy Trinity in Christian theology. Each person of the Trinity is fully God, co-equal, and co-eternal, meaning they share the same divine essence while being distinct in their personhood and roles.

The Father is often recognized as the Creator and sustainer of the universe, the Son as the Redeemer who becomes incarnate and sacrificed for humanity, and the Holy Ghost as the sanctifier who empowers and guides believers. This triune nature is integral to Christian faith and understanding of God's relationship with humanity and the workings of salvation.

The other choices reflect inaccuracies in the doctrine of the Trinity. Some suggest a limited view with only two persons, which does not encompass the fullness of God's revelation in Scripture. Other answers imply a unitarian perspective, which conflates the persons into one mode or manifestation rather than acknowledging their distinct personhood. The teaching found in the Westminster Shorter Catechism emphasizes the importance of recognizing all three divine persons as integral to the nature of God.