Biblical Theology: A Journey Through Scripture
An exploration of key themes and doctrines revealed throughout the Bible, emphasizing the unified nature and actions of God.
1. The Singular Nature of God
1.1 One God, Manifest in Different Ways
Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; John 1:1, 14; Acts 2:4
- The Old Testament affirms God's singular existence (Deuteronomy 6:4).
- The New Testament reveals God manifested as Father in creation, Son in redemption, and Holy Spirit in empowering the church (John 1:1, 14; Acts 2:4).
1.2 Jesus: The Fullness of the Godhead
Verses: 1 Timothy 3:16; Colossians 2:9
- Jesus is not merely 'a' God, but God manifested in flesh (1 Timothy 3:16).
- In Jesus dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily (Colossians 2:9).
2. Salvation: A Holistic Transformation
2.1 Repentance and Water Baptism
Verses: Acts 3:19; Acts 2:38
- Repentance is a change of heart and mind, turning away from sin (Acts 3:19).
- Water baptism by immersion in the name of Jesus Christ is for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38).
2.2 The Baptism of the Holy Spirit
Verses: Acts 8:14-17; Acts 19:6; Acts 2:4
- The baptism of the Holy Spirit is an experience distinct from and subsequent to conversion (Acts 8:14-17, 19:6).
- It is evidenced by speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance (Acts 2:4).
3. Living a Sanctified Life
3.1 Holiness Unto the Lord
Verses: 1 Thessalonians 4:3; Romans 12:2
- Sanctification is a process of being set apart for God's purpose (1 Thessalonians 4:3).
- It involves separation from the world and conformity to the image of Christ (Romans 12:2).
3.2 Walking in the Spirit
Verses: Galatians 5:16; Galatians 5:22-23
- Living by the Spirit empowers us to overcome the desires of the flesh (Galatians 5:16).
- It produces the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).