What Constitutes a New Testament Church? Part III

3.  Sound Doctrine.

Foundational to sound doctrine is accepting the Bible for what it says about itself.  All scripture is given by inspiration of God (God breathed), and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (II Timothy 3:16).  

Being a Christian is more than identifying yourself with a particular religion or affirming a certain value system.  Being a Christian means embracing what the Bible says about God, mankind, and salvation.  Consider the following truths found in the Bible.*

God Is the Sovereign Creator:  The Bible says we were created by a personal God to love, serve, and enjoy endless fellowship with Him.  The NT reveals it was Jesus Himself who created all things, therefore He also owns and rules everything.  

God Is Holy:  He cannot commit or approve of evil.  God requires holiness of us as well.  You shall be holy, for I am holy (I Peter 1:16).  

Mankind Is Sinful: Everyone is guilty of sin.  As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God (Romans 3:10&11).  

Sin Demands a Penalty: God’s holiness and justice demand that all sin be punished by death (Ezekial 18:4).  

Jesus Is Both Lord and Saviour: Christ’s death satisfied the demands of God’s justice, and Christ’s perfect life satisfied the demands of God’s holiness, thereby enabling Him to forgive and save those who place their faith in Him (II Cor. 5:21/Rom. 3:26). 

The Character of Saving Faith: True faith is always accompanied by repentance from sin.  Repentance is agreeing with God that you are sinful, confessing your sins to Him, and making a conscious choice to turn from sin, pursue Christ and obey Him.  True saving faith always responds in obedience.*

*Copyright 2013 Heritage Baptist Church, NSC, SD.  Used by permission.

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