Systematic Theology
A systematic exploration of key theological concepts.
1. The Singular God
1.1 One God, One Being
Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 45:5; 1 Timothy 2:5
- The scriptures declare that God is one. There is no plurality of persons within the Godhead.
- This one God is indivisible and unique, the sole creator and sustainer of all things.
- We must acknowledge the singular nature of God, rejecting any concept of multiple beings within the Godhead.
1.2 Manifestations of God
Verses: Isaiah 9:6; John 10:30; Colossians 2:9
- God manifests Himself in different ways, including as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
- These are not separate persons, but different expressions of the one God's character and work.
- Understanding these manifestations helps us to grasp the fullness of God's nature.
2. The Deity of Jesus Christ
2.1 Jesus: God Manifest in Flesh
Verses: John 1:1; John 1:14; John 10:30
- Jesus is not merely a man, but God Himself manifested in human flesh.
- The Word (God) became flesh and dwelt among us, revealing the Father's glory.
- Through Jesus, we see the visible image of the invisible God.
2.2 Fullness of the Godhead
Verses: Colossians 2:9; Philippians 2:5-11; John 14:9
- In Jesus dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.
- He is the complete and perfect representation of God's being and character.
- To see Jesus is to see the Father, for they are one and the same.
3. The Holy Spirit
3.1 The Spirit of God
Verses: John 14:16-18; Acts 2:4; 2 Corinthians 3:17
- The Holy Spirit is not a separate person, but the Spirit of God, the power and presence of God in the world.
- The Spirit empowers believers, guides them into truth, and reveals the things of God.
- The Lord is that Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.
3.2 Receiving the Holy Spirit
Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 10:44-46; Acts 19:6
- The baptism of the Holy Spirit, evidenced by speaking in other tongues, is a vital experience for believers.
- It is the promise of the Father, empowering us for service and witness.
- Through the Spirit, we are connected to the divine nature and filled with God's power.
4. Salvation
4.1 The Gospel Plan
Verses: Acts 2:38; Romans 10:9-10; John 3:5
- Salvation is received through repentance, water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and the baptism of the Holy Spirit.
- This is the complete gospel plan, as taught by the apostles.
- Obedience to this plan is essential for entering the kingdom of God.
4.2 Water Baptism
Verses: Romans 6:4; Colossians 2:12; Galatians 3:27
- Water baptism is by immersion and must be administered in the name of Jesus Christ.
- This signifies our death to sin, burial with Christ, and resurrection to new life.
- It is an act of obedience and identification with Christ's sacrifice.