Answer
Co-inherence (or coinherence) denotes a relationship characterized by interdependence and interconnectedness between two or more entities, or different things existing within each other. To inhere is to exist permanently and inseparably in something. Inherent qualities are intrinsic and innate. To coinhere is to inhere together. For example, ingredients within a cake are interdependent and inseparable; together, they form a whole cake. In Christian theology, co-inherence is a concept related to the Trinity.
In the realm of theology, co-inherence is a word sometimes applied to the mutual indwelling of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This concept goes beyond their eternal co-existence and denotes their relational depth. Unlike human relationships, there is no conflict, loss of intimacy, or estrangement within the Godhead. Furthermore, though the members of the Trinity are separate Persons (the Father is not the Son, the Son is not the Holy Spirit, etc.), they co-inhere; that is, they exist in and through each other.
Several writers and theologians have used the term co-inherence in their theological discourse. Charles Williams, a member of the Inklings, a literary discussion group that also included C. S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien, coined the word co-inherence. Williams viewed co-inherence as a spiritual principle stemming from the Trinity and extending to other areas of life.
The hypostatic union of Jesus could be seen as a form of co-inherence. In Jesus, the divine and human natures are perfectly united, without confusion or division. Jesus is fully human and fully God, not half of each, and one nature does not overshadow the other. The interconnectedness enables Jesus to be the Perfect Mediator between God and Man.
Another possible biblical instance of co-inherence is the union of Jesus and His church. Paul describes this in Romans 6:3–4, “Or have you forgotten that when we were joined with Christ Jesus in baptism, we joined him in his death? For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives” (NLT). Accepting Jesus’ sacrifice for our sin binds us to Him to the extent that we were crucified with Him and resurrected with Him: “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2:20). The union or co-inherence of Jesus and the church is such that those who persecute the church are actually persecuting Jesus (Acts 9:4–5).
Therefore, co-inherence begins with the strong, interconnected relationship of the Persons within the Godhead. It is further seen in the nature of Christ and His union with the church. For Christians, the co-inherence in the Godhead provides a template for our relationships as a community. Beyond simply co-existing, we should strive for unity in purpose, interconnection, and interdependence among the different parts of the body.
