Do You Believe?

1. The doctrine of Scripture: God's living, authoritative word

"The Bible is a life book given for life purposes."

God's living word. Scripture is not merely a religious text, but a dynamic, life-changing force. It is God's self-revelation, providing wisdom, guidance, and transformation for every aspect of human existence. The Bible is both divinely inspired and practically applicable, serving as our ultimate authority for faith and life.

Practical application. The doctrine of Scripture calls believers to:

• Regular, thoughtful engagement with God's word
• Allowing Scripture to shape our worldview and decision-making
• Seeking God's wisdom in all areas of life, from relationships to work
• Recognizing the Bible's power to convict, encourage, and transform

2. Understanding God's omnipotence and sovereignty

"God is always exercising his power, yet we are often discontent with what he does or does not do."

Divine control and human responsibility. God's omnipotence means He has absolute power and control over all things. His sovereignty extends to every aspect of creation, including human affairs. Yet this doesn't negate human responsibility or free will. Instead, it provides a framework for understanding our place in God's grand design.

Practical implications:

• Trust in God's ultimate control, even in difficult circumstances
• Recognize our dependence on God's power and provision
• Seek God's will and purpose in all situations
• Balance human effort with reliance on divine guidance and intervention
• Find comfort in God's sovereignty during times of uncertainty or suffering

3. The image of God in humanity: Dignity, purpose, and responsibility

"To be made in the image of God is to be made for rule."

Inherent human value. Every person, regardless of their circumstances or actions, bears the image of God. This foundational truth imparts inherent dignity and worth to all human beings. It also defines our purpose: to reflect God's character and to exercise responsible stewardship over creation.

Implications for daily life:

• Treat all people with respect and dignity
• Recognize our role as God's representatives on earth
• Exercise responsible dominion over creation (environmental stewardship)
• Cultivate godly attributes: love, justice, creativity, and wisdom
• Value relationships and community as reflections of God's nature

4. The devastating reality of sin and its effects on human nature

"Sin is never harmless; it is a cruel slave master, out to kidnap your heart and control your life."

The pervasive nature of sin. Sin is not just individual bad actions, but a corrupt condition affecting every aspect of human nature. It distorts our relationship with God, others, and creation. Sin blinds us to our true condition and enslaves us to destructive patterns.

Recognizing and combating sin:

• Acknowledge the reality of sin in our lives and the world
• Understand sin's deceptive nature and its power to enslave
• Recognize our inability to overcome sin through self-effort alone
• Cultivate humility and dependence on God's grace
• Actively resist temptation and pursue holiness through God's power

5. Justification by faith: The heart of the gospel

"Justification by grace through faith really does set you free."

God's gracious act. Justification is God's declaration that sinners are righteous in His sight, based solely on the work of Christ. It is received by faith alone, not by human effort or merit. This doctrine is the foundation of the Christian gospel and the basis for our relationship with God.

Key aspects of justification:

• Complete forgiveness of sin
• Imputation of Christ's righteousness to believers
• Reconciliation with God
• Adoption into God's family
• The basis for assurance of salvation and eternal life

6. Living out our identity in Christ: From theology to daily life

"Theology is more than an organized way to understand the truths unfolded in the pages of Scripture. Theology is something that you live."

Practical theology. Our understanding of God and His work should profoundly shape our daily lives. Christian doctrines are not abstract concepts, but transformative truths that redefine our identity, purpose, and behavior.

Applying theology to life:

• Allow biblical truths to shape your self-understanding and worldview
• Let your identity in Christ inform your relationships and decisions
• Approach challenges and trials through the lens of God's character and promises
• Cultivate spiritual disciplines that reinforce theological truths
• Seek to live out the implications of the gospel in every area of life

7. The transformative power of God's grace in everyday situations

"Grace upon grace is progressively restoring the glory that once was."

Grace in action. God's grace is not just a theological concept, but a powerful force that transforms every aspect of our lives. It provides forgiveness, healing, and the power to change. Grace enables us to live out our new identity in Christ and to grow in holiness.

Experiencing grace in daily life:

• Embrace God's unconditional love and acceptance
• Extend grace and forgiveness to others
• Rely on God's strength in moments of weakness or temptation
• Pursue spiritual growth with confidence in God's empowering grace
• Approach failures and setbacks with hope, knowing God's grace is sufficient

Last updated: September 30, 2024