InstaStudy

Foundational Christian Beliefs

An outline exploring core Christian beliefs.

1. The Singular God

1.1 One God, Manifest in Different Ways

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 45:5; 2 Corinthians 5:19
  • There is only one true God, not a plurality of gods.
  • This one God reveals Himself in various roles and manifestations.
  • God was in Christ, reconciling the world to Himself.

1.2 The Divine Name and Titles

Verses: Exodus 3:14; John 5:43; Matthew 28:19
  • God's revealed name in the Old Testament is Yahweh, signifying His self-existence.
  • Jesus came in His Father's name, demonstrating His divine identity.
  • Baptism is administered in the name of Jesus Christ, reflecting the fullness of the Godhead.

2. The Lord Jesus Christ

2.1 The Fullness of Deity in Christ

Verses: Colossians 2:9; John 1:1; John 10:30
  • The complete essence of God dwells bodily in Jesus Christ.
  • Jesus is the Word, and the Word was God.
  • Jesus declared, 'I and the Father are one.'

2.2 Jesus: God and Man

Verses: 1 Timothy 3:16; Philippians 2:5-8; John 1:14
  • God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit.
  • Jesus humbled Himself, taking on the form of a servant.
  • The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.

3. Salvation Through Christ

3.1 Repentance and Faith

Verses: Acts 2:38; Luke 24:47; Romans 10:9-10
  • Repentance involves turning away from sin and turning to God.
  • Repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name.
  • Confessing Jesus as Lord and believing in His resurrection leads to salvation.

3.2 Water Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 10:48; Acts 19:5
  • Baptism is an essential part of obedience to the Gospel.
  • The apostles baptized believers in the name of the Lord.
  • Baptism is a burial with Christ and a resurrection to new life.

3.3 The Baptism of the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 10:44-46; Acts 19:6
  • The Holy Spirit is a gift promised to all believers.
  • Speaking in other tongues is the initial physical evidence of receiving the Holy Spirit.
  • The Holy Spirit empowers believers for service and witness.

4. Living a Christian Life

4.1 Holiness and Obedience

Verses: 1 Peter 1:15-16; Hebrews 12:14; 1 John 2:6
  • Believers are called to be holy in all their conduct.
  • Without holiness, no one will see the Lord.
  • Walking as Jesus walked demonstrates genuine discipleship.

4.2 Love and Service

Verses: John 13:34-35; Galatians 5:13; Matthew 25:40
  • Love for one another is a distinguishing mark of Christians.
  • Serve one another in love.
  • Serving others is serving Christ.