Thursday, November 20, 2008

On The Guard - Part 2

Pay attention to Doctrinal Statements!

There is a church that has these verses as components to it's doctrinal statement...

Man was sold into Satan’s bondage through his obedience to the evil one. Jesus Christ, therefore, became the Redeemer by dying on the cross and shedding His precious blood as the ransom price for sinners (Acts 20:28), that whosoever believes in Him has everlasting life (John 3:16). All who believe in Him shall inherit full redemption (Romans 10:9). Knowing this, it behooves His followers to live a holy and pure life in every way as He did, knowing we shall be rewarded and judged according to the deeds done in the flesh (Hebrews 12:14; Matthew 16:27).

These statements demonstrate to me the belief that we are saved by faith alone.

While I agree that we need to live a pure and holy life, there is almost an idea that good deeds might save us. But what really disturbs me is that the Biblical plan for salvation is missing!

The first time that forgiveness of sin under the New Covenant was ever mentioned was Acts 2:38.

38 Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

There must not be any confusion that the Bible teaches sinners to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for forgiveness of sin and to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

When that is missing in a doctrinal statement, it is obvious to me that this idea is not believed.

I personally could never be a part of a church ministry that teaches "faith only" salvation.

Be careful what you buy into, check all area's of a church's doctrinal statements, staff biography's and beliefs. If what you read doesn't align properly with scripture don't be deceived!

More to come tomorrow!

2 comments:

  1. Absolutely right on target... a church's statement of faith must reflect scripture... and not just the parts it chooses, but ALL parts of scripture, in context! Keep up the good work Joe. Spiritual warfare is tough work, and you are doing a great job for the kingdom!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Mom said what I wanted to but I will add that we went to a church that didn't believe baptism was essential. I wanted to be baptised in that church and they wanted to pick a day for me a few months away. I called mom one morning not a few weeks later and said I couldn't wait any longer and was baptized that day. I no longer attend that church. I just can't go somewhere where their beliefs don't match that of scripture.

    ReplyDelete