These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. - John 17:1-3

Outline

Debate Topic: The Father is the One True God

Scheduled on: August 3, 2026

Debaters and Positions:

Jose Rodelio Retome Rata - INC position on the subject
Jerry Bustillo - LDS position on the subject

Moderator:

Lab Mae

Debate Structure

Part I - Presentation

Opening Statement (INC)
Opening Statement (LDS)

Part II - Cross-Examination

Up to ten (10) questions from the LDS
Up to ten (10) questions from the INC

Part III – Analysis and Commentary

INC Commentary Response and analysis on the LDS presentation
LDS Commentary Response and analysis on the INC presentation

Part IV – Closing Statements

Closing Statement (INC)
Closing Statement (LDS)

Part V – Moderator’s Conclusion

Summary of the major points discussed
Identification of questions that were answered or remained unresolved
Conclusion based on agreed criteria.

Debate Rules and Guidelines

Each presentation must contain at least 400 words (or 2,000 characters) or fewer, without excessive quotations, external criticisms, or copied materials.
No ad hominem attacks. Name-calling, insults, or provocations are not allowed.
Stay on topic. Strawman arguments are prohibited. No red herring (no diversion, misdirection, or irrelevant points).
In the question-and-answer portion only, each side may cite one or two Scripture passages, with explanation. Scripture flooding or quoting the whole scriptural verse without citing personal interpretation is not allowed. Suggested length: 250–300 words (or 1,000 characters or fewer).
If more space is needed, request moderator approval in advance.
Closed or polar questions are allowed, provided they include a brief supporting statement when necessary.
Quoting or appealing to external speakers, authors, or doctrinal authorities is not permitted.
All questions must be based directly on the opponent’s presentation and/or must not change the subject.
Use a single comment thread or nested reply, posted only after the moderator’s cue.
Responses should be given within 24 hours, subject to each party’s availability.
Audience members may comment but must not intervene or debate the subject.Deleting comments is prohibited.
Editing one’s own statement is allowed only with moderator approval.

Moderator Authority:

If the discussion becomes excessively heated or unproductive, the moderator may pause or end the debate, declare a position based on clear assertions, or require a revised format.
Final Decision: The moderator will render a conclusion based on careful biblical exegesis from both sides.The finalized debate may be archived by either party.
Copies of the full discussion will be retained in the moderator’s records.