Global Christian Confession Of Faith
The Global Christian Confession of Faith establishes doctrinal standards for essential Christianity. These standards are not a litmus or purity test for salvation (covered in Section 7) but rather for institutional orthodoxy and individual catechesis. Comprising twelve theological disciplines, each with twelve propositions, this confession outlines core doctrines to promote optimal global unity and truth.
Here are the 144 Theses:
1. Bibliological Essentials (Scripture)
1.A.
The 66 books of the Bible are the inspired, inerrant, supreme, and authoritative Word of God, not merely containing but being the Word of God, uniquely revealing His will and character. The biblical canon is: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 Samuel, 2 Samuel, 1 Kings, 2 Kings, 1 Chronicles, 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi, Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts, Romans, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, 1 Peter, 2 Peter, 1 John, 2 John, 3 John, Jude, Revelation. (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Psalm 19:1-7; Matthew 5:18; Luke 24:27; John 10:35; Psalm 119:89; 1 Corinthians 2:13; Revelation 22:18-19; Isaiah 55:11; Hebrews 1:1-2; Psalm 119:160; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; John 5:39; Psalm 119:105; Matthew 5:19; Romans 1:20; Galatians 1:8-9; John 16:13)
1.B.
All truths, whether theological, moral, philosophical, or scientific, are derived from or judged by the holy supremacy of the Bible, which unveils God’s redemptive plan for humanity and the cosmos. (John 5:39; Acts 17:11; Revelation 5:9-10; 1 Thessalonians 5:21; Psalm 119:105; Romans 15:4; Colossians 2:8; John 17:17; 1 Corinthians 1:25; Proverbs 1:7; 2 Corinthians 10:5; Isaiah 8:20)
1.C.
The Scriptures are God-breathed, free from error in their original manuscripts, and sufficient for all matters of faith, practice, and godly living, equipping believers for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17; Psalm 12:6; Deuteronomy 29:29; John 20:31; Psalm 119:9; 2 Peter 1:3; Proverbs 30:5; Matthew 4:4; Titus 1:2; Psalm 18:30; 1 Timothy 4:13; 2 Corinthians 1:20)
1.D.
The Bible’s clarity ensures its essential teachings are accessible to those who approach it with humility, faith, and the Spirit’s illumination, requiring the Spirit’s teaching for true understanding. (Psalm 119:130; Deuteronomy 30:11-14; 1 Corinthians 2:12-14; Psalm 19:7; Matthew 11:25; John 16:13; Nehemiah 8:8; Psalm 119:18; Acts 26:18; Luke 24:45; 2 Corinthians 4:6; Ephesians 1:17-18)
1.E.
God’s Word is eternal, preserved by His providence through history, unchanging amidst human frailty and cultural shifts. (Isaiah 40:8; Matthew 24:35; 1 Peter 1:24-25; Psalm 119:89; Psalm 102:26-27; John 12:48; Psalm 33:11; Matthew 5:18; Psalm 119:152; Proverbs 30:6; Isaiah 59:21; Luke 21:33)
1.F.
Scripture sanctifies believers, transforming their minds, hearts, and actions to reflect Christ’s image. (John 17:17; Romans 12:2; Hebrews 4:12; Ephesians 5:26; Psalm 119:11; 1 Peter 2:2; 2 Corinthians 3:18; James 1:21; Psalm 19:7; Colossians 3:16; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; Ezekiel 36:27)
1.G.
Diligent study, meditation, and obedience to Scripture are commanded as the duty and delight of every believer. (Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:2; James 1:22-25; Psalm 119:97; 2 Timothy 2:15; Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Psalm 119:15; Acts 17:11; Colossians 3:16; Psalm 119:48; Ezra 7:10; Psalm 119:165)
1.H.
The Bible reveals God’s redemptive narrative, culminating in Christ’s life, death, and resurrection as the interpretive center of His redemptive plan. (Luke 24:27; John 1:45; Acts 20:27; Romans 1:1-4; Hebrews 1:1-2; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4; Galatians 4:4-5; Luke 24:44; John 5:46; Acts 26:22-23; Revelation 19:10; 1 Peter 1:10-12)
1.I.
Teachers and preachers must handle Scripture with accuracy, avoiding distortion or private interpretation. (2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Corinthians 4:2; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Titus 2:1; Acts 20:27; James 3:1; 1 Timothy 4:16; 2 Timothy 4:2; Galatians 1:8-9; Nehemiah 8:8; 1 Corinthians 2:4-5; Ezekiel 33:7)
1.J.
Scripture alone—not tradition, reason, or experience apart from it—serves as the ultimate foundation for Christian doctrine and practice, superseding all other claims, including tradition or perceived prophecy. (Titus 1:9; 2 Peter 1:19-21; Proverbs 30:5-6; Matthew 15:6; Isaiah 8:20; Acts 17:11; 1 Corinthians 4:6; Galatians 1:8-9; Colossians 2:8; Psalm 119:128; Mark 7:7-9; 2 Timothy 3:15; John 16:13)
1.K.
The unity of Scripture testifies to its divine origin, with the Old and New Testaments harmonizing in purpose and fulfillment, with the New Testament affirming the Old Testament’s authority. (Luke 24:44-47; Hebrews 1:1-2; John 10:35; Romans 15:4; 2 Timothy 3:15; Matthew 5:17,19; Galatians 3:24; Acts 28:23; 1 Peter 1:10-11; John 5:39; Romans 3:2; 2 Corinthians 1:20)
1.L.
Believers are called to proclaim and defend the Scriptures as the living and active Word of God. (Hebrews 4:12; 1 Peter 3:15; Jude 1:3; Acts 4:31; 2 Timothy 4:2; Philippians 1:16; Colossians 4:6; Psalm 119:46; Titus 1:9; 1 Corinthians 9:16; Mark 16:15; Acts 20:20)
2. Ontotheological Essentials (God)
2.A. God is one in essence, eternally existing as three distinct yet coequal and coeternal persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—each fully and co-equally God, distinguished but not divided, perfectly united in will and purpose. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14; John 10:30; Genesis 1:26; John 1:1-2,14; Acts 5:3-4; John 17:21; Isaiah 48:16; Hebrews 1:8; John 14:9; 1 John 5:7) 2.B. The Father sovereignly ordains salvation, the Son obediently accomplishes it through His incarnation and atonement, and the Spirit powerfully applies it to the elect. (John 3:16; Hebrews 9:14; Titus 3:5-6; Ephesians 1:3-14; John 6:37; Romans 8:29-30; John 17:2; 1 Peter 1:2; Acts 13:48; John 10:29; Philippians 2:8; Romans 5:10; Ephesians 1:7) 2.C. The Triune God reveals Himself through general revelation in creation, special revelation in Scripture, and ultimate revelation in the incarnate Word, Jesus Christ, the exact imprint of His nature. (Romans 1:20; Psalm 19:1-4; John 1:1-14; Colossians 2:9; Hebrews 1:1-3; Acts 14:17; John 14:9; Romans 2:14-15; Psalm 104:24; Revelation 19:10; John 5:39; 1 Timothy 3:16) 2.D. God’s attributes—holiness, justice, love, mercy, omnipotence, omniscience, omnipresence, immutability, sovereignty, eternity, and infinity—are infinite, unchanging, perfectly balanced, harmonious like justice and love, demanding worship and obedience. (Isaiah 6:3; Psalm 89:14; 1 John 4:8; Ephesians 2:4-5; Jeremiah 32:17; Psalm 147:5; Psalm 139:7-10; Malachi 3:6; Ephesians 1:11; Psalm 90:2; Exodus 34:6-7; Revelation 4:8; Psalm 99:5; 1 Chronicles 29:11-12) 2.E. God is self-existent, needing nothing outside Himself for His being or glory, the uncaused cause of all that exists. (Exodus 3:14; Acts 17:24-25; John 5:26; Psalm 50:10-12; Romans 11:36; Isaiah 44:6; Colossians 1:16; Psalm 36:9; Genesis 1:1; Revelation 1:8; Job 41:11; Psalm 93:2) 2.F. His omnipotence upholds all creation by the word of His power, displaying infinite strength and wisdom. (Genesis 1:1; Hebrews 1:3; Romans 11:33-36; Psalm 33:6; Jeremiah 10:12; Colossians 1:17; Job 37:23; Psalm 135:6; Isaiah 40:28; Matthew 19:26; Psalm 147:4-5; Revelation 19:6) 2.G. His omniscience encompasses all things—past, present, and future—knowing the end from the beginning. (Isaiah 46:9-10; Hebrews 4:13; Psalm 139:1-4; Proverbs 15:3; Matthew 10:30; 1 John 3:20; Job 28:24; Psalm 147:5; Acts 15:18; Romans 11:33; Daniel 2:20; 1 Chronicles 28:9) 2.H. His omnipresence fills heaven and earth, sustaining every molecule while transcending all limitations. (Jeremiah 23:23-24; Colossians 1:17; 1 Kings 8:27; Psalm 139:7-10; Acts 17:27-28; Isaiah 66:1; Matthew 18:20; Psalm 113:4-6; John 4:24; Ephesians 4:6; Job 34:21; Psalm 33:13-14) 2.I. His immutability ensures that His character, promises, and purposes remain steadfast forever. (Numbers 23:19; Hebrews 6:17-18; James 1:17; Malachi 3:6; Psalm 102:25-27; Isaiah 41:4; 1 Samuel 15:29; Psalm 33:11; Hebrews 13:8; Exodus 3:14; Romans 11:29; Psalm 119:89) 2.J. His sovereignty governs every event, from the smallest detail to the grand sweep of history, for His glory and the good of His people, sovereign in creation, providence, and redemption. (Daniel 4:34-35; Romans 8:28; Ephesians 1:11; Psalm 115:3; Isaiah 46:10; Proverbs 16:9; Matthew 10:29; Job 42:2; Psalm 135:6; Acts 4:27-28; Lamentations 3:37; Romans 9:18; 1 Chronicles 29:11-12) 2.K. His holiness demands perfect righteousness, separating Him from all sin and evil. (Leviticus 11:44; Habakkuk 1:13; 1 Peter 1:15-16; Isaiah 6:3; Psalm 99:9; Revelation 4:8; Exodus 15:11; 1 Samuel 2:2; Psalm 5:4; John 17:11; Romans 7:12; Psalm 22:3) 2.L. Salvation magnifies God’s glory, displaying His grace, mercy, justice, and love to all creation. (Ephesians 1:6,12,14; Romans 11:33-36; Revelation 4:11; Isaiah 43:7; Psalm 79:9; John 17:24; Romans 9:23; 1 Timothy 1:11; Psalm 115:1; Ezekiel 36:22; 1 Corinthians 10:31; Revelation 5:12)
3. Agapological Essentials (Love)
3.A. Love is the active, self-sacrificial pursuit of God’s glory and others’ temporal and eternal good, rooted in God’s own nature as love itself, exemplified by Christ’s atoning death. (1 John 4:8; John 15:13; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7; Romans 5:8; Ephesians 5:2; 1 John 3:16-17; Galatians 2:20; John 3:16; Philippians 2:5-8; 1 John 4:16,20; Titus 3:4; Romans 13:10; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15) 3.B. The Great Commandment binds believers to love God with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength, and their neighbors as themselves, summarizing God’s moral law. (Matthew 22:37-40; Deuteronomy 6:4-5; Leviticus 19:18; Mark 12:29-31; Luke 10:27; Romans 13:8-10; Galatians 5:14; John 13:34-35; James 2:8; 1 John 4:21; Matthew 7:12; 1 Corinthians 16:14) 3.C. Love is a deliberate duty, not a fleeting emotion, proven through obedience to God’s commands and seeking others’ spiritual and eternal welfare. (John 14:15,21; 1 John 5:2-3; 2 John 1:6; John 15:10; 1 John 2:5; 1 Corinthians 13:3; Matthew 5:44; Romans 12:9-10; 1 Peter 1:22; Galatians 6:10; 1 John 3:18; Hebrews 13:1) 3.D. Rightly ordered loves prioritize devotion to God above all, followed by covenantal relationships such as marriage, family, church, nation, and broader humanity, in this order: first to God, then to ourselves, our relatives, especially our own household, the Church, the wider human community, even our enemies, and finally the rest of creation, aligning with God’s truth and holiness. (Psalm 97:10; Mark 12:30-31; Matthew 10:37; 1 Timothy 5:8; Exodus 20:3; Luke 14:26; Ephesians 5:25; Romans 13:1; Leviticus 19:34; Psalm 133:1; Colossians 3:14; John 17:23; Ephesians 6:4; Galatians 6:10; Luke 10:25-37; 2 Timothy 3:2-5) 3.E. Christ’s sacrificial death on the cross exemplifies love, compelling believers to proclaim the gospel and serve others, guarding against worldly sentimentality. (Ephesians 5:1-2; John 15:12-13; 1 John 3:16; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15; Galatians 5:13; Romans 15:2-3; 1 Peter 4:8; John 13:35; Philippians 2:17; 1 Thessalonians 2:8; Romans 12:1; 1 John 4:11) 3.F. Love is patient and kind, enduring others’ faults while reflecting God’s steadfast character. (1 Corinthians 13:4; Psalm 103:8; Colossians 3:12-14; Ephesians 4:2; Exodus 34:6; 1 Peter 3:8; 2 Timothy 2:24; Psalm 86:15; Galatians 5:22; Romans 2:4; Nehemiah 9:17; Joel 2:13) 3.G. Love eschews envy, pride, and self-seeking, embracing humility and generosity. (1 Corinthians 13:4-5; Philippians 2:3-4; Romans 12:10; James 3:16; 1 Peter 5:5; Proverbs 27:2; Galatians 6:2; Matthew 23:12; Romans 15:1; 1 Corinthians 10:24; Luke 6:38; Acts 20:35) 3.H. Love honors others with respect, bearing their burdens and forgiving offenses, uniting believers. (1 Corinthians 13:5; Ephesians 4:2,32; 1 Peter 4:8; Galatians 6:2; Colossians 3:13; Matthew 18:21-22; Romans 15:7; Philippians 2:2; Luke 17:3-4; Proverbs 17:9; 1 Thessalonians 5:14; Psalm 133:1) 3.I. Love rejoices in truth, standing firm against evil and falsehood. (1 Corinthians 13:6; Ephesians 4:15; Zechariah 8:16-17; Psalm 119:163; Proverbs 12:22; John 8:32; Romans 12:9; 3 John 1:4; Psalm 15:2; 2 Timothy 2:25; Amos 5:15; Philippians 4:8) 3.J. Love perseveres through trials, sustained by faith and hope in God’s promises. (1 Corinthians 13:7; Hebrews 12:1-2; Romans 15:13; James 1:12; 1 Peter 1:6-7; Romans 5:3-5; 2 Corinthians 4:16-18; Psalm 31:24; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; Revelation 2:10; Lamentations 3:24; Romans 8:25) 3.K. Love compels believers to proclaim the gospel, serve the needy, and build up the church, reflecting God’s redemptive mission, compelling forgiveness and service to all, including enemies, and prioritizing spiritual needs by calling all to repentance and faith to escape judgment. (2 Corinthians 5:14-15; Galatians 5:13-14; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; Matthew 25:40; Acts 1:8; Romans 10:14-15; 1 Corinthians 9:19; James 2:15-16; Luke 10:25-37; Ephesians 4:16; 1 John 3:17; Mark 10:45; Matthew 5:44-45) 3.L. The ultimate expression of love is God’s gift of His Son, calling believers to reflect this love in all relationships. (John 3:16; Romans 5:8; 1 John 4:9-11; Ephesians 2:4-5; Titus 3:4; 1 John 4:19; Romans 8:32; John 15:13; Galatians 2:20; 1 Timothy 1:14; Revelation 1:5; 1 Corinthians 13:13)
4. Theokanological Essentials (God's Standards)
4.A. God’s moral standards, including creation mandates, moral law, apostolic prescriptions, and instructions, reflecting His holiness and immutability, are unchanging and binding as revealed in Scripture, calling believers to holiness, justice, mercy, and compassion, opposing relativism and liberalization, and serving as the benchmark for Christian and human holiness. (Leviticus 19:2; Malachi 3:6; 1 Peter 1:15-16; Psalm 119:89; Isaiah 40:8; Romans 7:12; Hebrews 13:8; Psalm 93:5; Matthew 5:48; Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalm 19:7; James 1:17; Micah 6:8; Genesis 1:28; 2 Timothy 3:10-11; Ephesians 5:3) 4.B. These standards, fulfilled in Christ, remain authoritative for believers unless explicitly abrogated by Scripture chronologically after they are established, guiding righteous living, promoting human flourishing without meriting salvation, and all prescriptive biblical standards are actively and continually valid for believers today. (Matthew 5:17-18; Romans 3:31; Hebrews 8:13; Galatians 3:24-25; Romans 8:4; 1 John 2:3-4; Psalm 119:1-2; Matthew 22:40; Romans 13:10; 1 Corinthians 9:8-10; John 15:10; Titus 2:14; Deuteronomy 10:12-13; James 1:25) 4.C. God’s law is written on believers’ hearts through the new covenant, empowering obedience by the Spirit’s transformative work. (Jeremiah 31:33; Hebrews 10:16; Ezekiel 36:27; Romans 2:15; 2 Corinthians 3:3; Psalm 37:31; Romans 8:2; Hebrews 8:10; Psalm 40:8; John 16:13; Galatians 5:22-23; Deuteronomy 30:6) 4.D. God’s moral prescriptions—love, justice, mercy, humility, and obedience—reflect His character and promote flourishing in human relationships. (Micah 6:8; Matthew 22:37-40; Deuteronomy 10:12-13; Hosea 12:6; Romans 13:8-10; Colossians 3:12-14; Leviticus 19:18; Psalm 89:14; James 2:13; 1 John 3:7; Matthew 23:23; Luke 11:42) 4.E. God’s unchanging principles guard against relativism, syncretism, and moral compromise, preserving truth in every generation. (Isaiah 5:20; Romans 12:2; 2 Timothy 4:3-4; Proverbs 14:12; Jude 1:4; Galatians 1:6-9; 1 Timothy 6:20; Psalm 119:160; 2 Corinthians 11:4; Titus 2:1; Ephesians 4:14; 2 Thessalonians 2:15) 4.F. The Ten Commandments remain an enduring standard of righteousness, applicable to all people across all time. (Exodus 20:1-17; Romans 13:9; Matthew 5:17-19; Deuteronomy 5:6-21; James 2:10-11; Psalm 119:151; Ecclesiastes 12:13; Romans 7:7; Matthew 19:17-19; 1 Corinthians 7:19; Psalm 19:7; Exodus 31:18) 4.G. Honesty and integrity in word and deed are required of believers, reflecting God’s truthfulness. (Ephesians 4:25; Colossians 3:9; Proverbs 12:22; Leviticus 19:11; Zechariah 8:16; Psalm 15:2; Titus 2:7; 1 Peter 2:12; Proverbs 11:3; Matthew 5:37; Exodus 20:16; Psalm 51:6) 4.H. Sexual purity, with sexual activity intended for oneness and procreation solely within the confines of a biblically defined marriage, honors God’s design for human relationships. (Hebrews 13:4; 1 Corinthians 6:18-20; Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:4-6; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5; Ephesians 5:3; Proverbs 5:18-19; Leviticus 18:22; Romans 1:26-27; 1 Corinthians 7:2-3; Colossians 3:5; Song of Solomon 7:6-12) 4.I. Justice and compassion for the vulnerable—widows, orphans, and foreigners—are commanded as expressions of God’s heart. (James 1:27; Deuteronomy 10:18-19; Isaiah 1:17; Psalm 82:3-4; Exodus 22:21-22; Leviticus 19:33-34; Micah 6:8; Zechariah 7:9-10; Matthew 25:35-40; Proverbs 31:8-9; Luke 4:18; Jeremiah 22:3) 4.J. The sanctity of human life, from conception to natural death, reflects God’s image in every person. (Genesis 1:26-27; Psalm 139:13-16; Exodus 20:13; Jeremiah 1:5; Genesis 9:6; Job 31:15; Psalm 127:3; Deuteronomy 32:39; Isaiah 44:24; Matthew 19:18; Luke 1:41; Ecclesiastes 11:5) 4.K. Idolatry in all forms—material, intellectual, or spiritual—is strictly forbidden, as God alone is worthy of worship. (Exodus 20:3-5; 1 John 5:21; Deuteronomy 6:14; Isaiah 42:8; Colossians 3:5; 1 Corinthians 10:14; Matthew 4:10; Psalm 115:4-8; Romans 1:25; Jeremiah 10:5; Acts 17:29; Revelation 19:10) 4.L. Contentment and trust in God’s provision guard against greed, envy, and self-reliance, aligning the heart with His will. (Philippians 4:11-12; 1 Timothy 6:6-8; Hebrews 13:5; Matthew 6:33; Psalm 23:1; Proverbs 15:16; Luke 12:15; Ecclesiastes 5:10; 1 Timothy 6:17; Psalm 37:25; Exodus 20:17; Colossians 3:2)
5. Diathekological Essentials (Covenants)
5.A. God created a perfect, sinless world, including the historical, ancestral Adam and Eve as the first parents, declared "very good." (Genesis 1:31; Genesis 2:7; Ecclesiastes 7:29; Genesis 1:26-27; Acts 17:26; Romans 5:12; Genesis 2:21-22; Psalm 8:5; Colossians 1:16; Genesis 5:1-2; Hosea 6:7; Luke 3:38) 5.B. God relates to humanity through covenants, progressively revealing His redemptive plan across history, culminating in Christ. (Genesis 3:15; Hebrews 1:1-2; Galatians 3:16; Jeremiah 31:31-34; Ephesians 2:12; Romans 9:4; Hebrews 8:6-12; Genesis 12:2-3; Luke 1:72-73; Acts 3:25; Revelation 21:3; Ephesians 1:10) 5.C. The covenant with Adam as humanity’s federal head, under the first covenant, required perfect obedience in Eden as the condition for eternal life. (Genesis 2:16-17; Romans 5:12-14; Hosea 6:7; Genesis 3:17; 1 Corinthians 15:22; Romans 5:19; Genesis 1:28; Job 31:33; Romans 5:17; Ecclesiastes 7:29; Genesis 2:9; Deuteronomy 30:15-16) 5.D. Adam’s disobedience violated God’s command, introducing sin and death to all his descendants and subjecting creation and mankind to the curse of the fall. (Romans 5:12; Genesis 3:6-7; 1 Corinthians 15:21-22; Romans 8:20-21; Genesis 3:17-19; Ephesians 2:3; Psalm 51:5; Romans 5:15-19; Job 14:4; John 3:6; Colossians 2:13; Ecclesiastes 7:20) 5.E. Humanity inherits a sinful nature from Adam, rendering all incapable of righteousness apart from divine grace. (Psalm 51:5; Romans 3:23; Ephesians 2:1-3; Genesis 6:5; Romans 5:12; Jeremiah 17:9; John 8:34; Romans 7:18; Psalm 58:3; Titus 1:15; Job 15:14; Romans 6:20) 5.F. Christ, the second Adam, fulfills God’s covenant promises, securing redemption for His people through His obedience and atonement. (Romans 5:15-19; 1 Corinthians 15:45-47; Hebrews 9:15; Romans 5:17; Philippians 2:8; Isaiah 53:11; John 10:11; Colossians 1:20; Galatians 3:13; 1 Peter 3:18; Romans 3:25; Hebrews 2:17) 5.G. The Noahic covenant preserves creation and humanity, establishing common grace for all until the final judgment. (Genesis 9:1-17; Acts 14:17; Psalm 104:14-15; Genesis 8:21-22; Matthew 5:45; Romans 13:1; 1 Peter 2:13-14; Psalm 145:9; Genesis 6:18; Isaiah 54:9; Hebrews 11:7; 2 Peter 2:5) 5.H. The Abrahamic covenant promises blessing to all nations, fulfilled through Christ, the true seed of Abraham. (Genesis 12:2-3; Galatians 3:16; Romans 4:13; Genesis 17:7; Acts 3:25; Hebrews 6:13-14; Matthew 1:1; Genesis 22:18; Romans 9:8; Galatians 3:29; Psalm 105:8-9; John 8:56) 5.I. The Mosaic covenant reveals God’s holiness and humanity’s sin, pointing to the need for a greater mediator. (Exodus 19:5-6; Galatians 3:19; Romans 7:7; Hebrews 8:5-6; Deuteronomy 5:2-3; Romans 3:20; Leviticus 20:26; Exodus 20:1-17; Galatians 3:24; Romans 10:4; Hebrews 7:22; Nehemiah 9:13-14) 5.J. The Davidic covenant establishes an everlasting kingdom, realized in Christ’s eternal reign over all creation. (2 Samuel 7:12-16; Psalm 89:3-4; Luke 1:32-33; Isaiah 9:7; Matthew 1:1; Acts 2:30; Revelation 11:15; Psalm 2:6; 1 Chronicles 17:11-14; Jeremiah 33:17; Daniel 7:14; Hebrews 1:8) 5.K. The new covenant, inaugurated by Christ’s blood, forgives sin, transforms hearts, and unites God’s people in eternal communion with Him. (Jeremiah 31:31-34; Hebrews 8:6-12; Luke 22:20; Matthew 26:28; Hebrews 10:16-17; Ezekiel 36:26-27; 1 Corinthians 11:25; John 6:45; Romans 11:27; Colossians 1:20; Hebrews 12:24; Titus 2:14) 5.L. God’s covenant people, the regenerate elect, are drawn from every nation and united as one body in Christ, both Jew and Gentile, cleansed by His blood for eternal life. (Ephesians 2:13-16; Galatians 3:26-29; 1 Peter 2:9-10; Romans 8:29-30; Colossians 3:11; John 10:16; Revelation 5:9; Titus 1:1; Ephesians 1:4-5; Romans 9:24; 1 John 1:7; Acts 15:14)
6. Anthropological Essentials (Humanity)
6.A. God created humanity male and female in His image, with ontology, biology, and gender identity immutably united from conception, and life beginning at conception, to glorify Him and enjoy Him forever. (Genesis 1:26-27; Genesis 2:7; Colossians 3:10; Psalm 8:4-6; Acts 17:26; Genesis 5:1-2; Matthew 19:4; Ecclesiastes 12:1; Romans 11:36; Ephesians 4:24; Psalm 139:13-14; Jeremiah 1:5) 6.B. Humans are a unity of body and soul, created to reflect God’s image in thought, word, and deed. (Genesis 2:7; Matthew 10:28; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; Genesis 1:27; Ecclesiastes 12:7; 2 Corinthians 4:16; Psalm 139:14; Hebrews 4:12; James 2:26; Romans 12:1; Genesis 9:6; 1 Corinthians 6:20) 6.C. All humans have equal worth as image-bearers, with differences in role, ability, and culture by God’s design, all humans are finite, unique, and distinct, and nations and tribes are intentionally made distinct to reflect God’s beauty and purposes, being ontologically equal in value. (Genesis 1:27; Acts 17:26-31; Galatians 3:28; Romans 12:4-5; 1 Corinthians 12:12-13; Revelation 7:9; Psalm 139:14; James 2:1; Colossians 3:11; Deuteronomy 32:8; Genesis 11; Titus 1:12-13) 6.D. Natural hierarchies and diverse gifts—within families, churches, and societies—are instituted by God for human flourishing under His order. (Ephesians 5:22-25; 1 Corinthians 12:18; Romans 13:1; Genesis 2:18; Titus 2:4-5; 1 Timothy 3:4-5; Exodus 18:21; Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 5:1-3; Colossians 3:18-21; Proverbs 31:27; 1 Corinthians 11:3) 6.E. Male and female are ontologically equal yet functionally distinct, reflecting God’s created order across creation, which remains unchanged despite sin’s effects. (Genesis 1:27; Galatians 3:28; 1 Corinthians 11:3; Ephesians 5:22-33; Genesis 2:18; 1 Peter 3:7; Colossians 3:18-19; Genesis 5:2; Titus 2:5; Proverbs 31:10-11; 1 Timothy 2:12-13; Romans 1:26-27) 6.F. Marriage is only between one man and one woman, where the husband leads lovingly and the wife submits respectfully, mirroring Christ and the church. (Genesis 2:21-25; Ephesians 5:22-33; Matthew 19:4-6; Colossians 3:18-19; 1 Peter 3:1-7; Hebrews 13:4; Mark 10:6-9; Proverbs 18:22; 1 Corinthians 7:2; Song of Solomon 2:16; Malachi 2:14-15; Titus 2:4) 6.G. Parents, under the husband’s leadership, bear the primary duty to educate and disciple their children in the faith. (Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Ephesians 6:4; Proverbs 22:6; Psalm 78:4-6; Colossians 3:21; 2 Timothy 1:5; Exodus 12:26-27; Joshua 4:21-22; Proverbs 1:8; Genesis 18:19; Deuteronomy 11:19; Psalm 127:3) 6.H. Work is a divine calling to exercise dominion and stewardship over creation, fulfilling the cultural mandate. (Genesis 1:28; Genesis 2:15; Colossians 3:23-24; Psalm 8:6; Ephesians 4:28; 1 Thessalonians 4:11; Proverbs 12:11; Ecclesiastes 3:13; Matthew 25:14-30; 2 Thessalonians 3:10; Psalm 104:23; John 5:17) 6.I. Human identity is rooted in God’s image, with sexuality designed as binary and complementary—male and female—within marriage alone. (Genesis 1:27; Matthew 19:4-6; Genesis 2:24; Romans 1:26-27; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Mark 10:6-9; Leviticus 18:22; Genesis 5:2; Deuteronomy 22:5; 1 Corinthians 11:14-15; Hebrews 13:4; Song of Solomon 8:6) 6.J. Deviations from God’s design—physical, moral, or spiritual—result from sin’s corruption, as all humans are totally depraved, needing regeneration. (Romans 5:12; Genesis 3:16-19; Romans 1:24-32; Ephesians 2:1-3; Romans 3:23; Jeremiah 17:9; John 3:3; Psalm 51:5; Titus 1:15; Ecclesiastes 7:20; Colossians 2:13; Romans 7:18) 6.K. Redemption in Christ restores God’s image in believers, enabling them to fulfill their created purpose and proclaim the gospel with love and truth, knowing that Christ can save and sanctify, and that all Christians are spiritually one in Him, transcending natural distinctions. (Colossians 3:10; Ephesians 4:24; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Romans 8:29; Galatians 2:20; 1 Peter 2:9; Titus 2:14; John 17:21; Ephesians 2:10; Romans 12:2; Colossians 3:11-12; Revelation 7:9) 6.L. Humans are stewards of creation, tasked with cultivating and preserving God’s world in submission to His will, reflecting their inherent dignity and duty despite the fall. (Genesis 1:28; Genesis 2:15; Psalm 8:6-8; Matthew 25:21; Leviticus 25:2-5; Numbers 35:33-34; Proverbs 12:10; Romans 8:19-21; Colossians 1:16-17; Jeremiah 2:7; Psalm 24:1; Deuteronomy 20:19)
7. Soteriological Essentials (Salvation)
7.A. Jesus Christ, fully divine and fully human, virgin-born, lived a sinless life, taught with infallible authority, and is the sole mediator between God and humanity. (John 1:1,14; Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 4:15; John 8:46; Philippians 2:6-8; Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:23; 1 Peter 2:22; Luke 1:27,31-35; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Timothy 3:16) 7.B. Christ’s substitutionary death on the cross atoned for the sins of His people, as sinners’ guilt was imputed to Him, bearing their punishment to reconcile them to God. (Isaiah 53:5-6; 1 Peter 2:24; Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Galatians 3:13; Hebrews 9:28; 1 Peter 3:18; Colossians 1:20; John 10:11; Romans 3:25; 1 John 2:2; Ephesians 1:7) 7.C. His sacrifice propitiated God’s wrath, turning it away from those who trust in Him, satisfying divine justice. (Romans 3:25; 1 John 2:2; Hebrews 2:17; Isaiah 53:5; 1 John 4:10; Romans 5:9; John 3:36; Colossians 2:13-14; Hebrews 10:14; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; Psalm 7:11; Romans 1:18) 7.D. Through imputation, Christ’s righteousness is credited to believers, justifying them before God apart from their own works. (Romans 4:5-8; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Philippians 3:9; Romans 3:22; Galatians 2:16; Romans 5:19; Isaiah 61:10; Jeremiah 23:6; Titus 3:7; Romans 10:4; 1 Corinthians 1:30; Romans 5:1) 7.E. Believers are adopted as God’s children, receiving an eternal inheritance through union with Christ. (Romans 8:15-17; Galatians 4:4-5; Ephesians 1:5; John 1:12; 1 John 3:1; Romans 8:23; Hebrews 12:7; Galatians 3:26; 1 Peter 1:4; Ephesians 2:19; Colossians 1:12; Romans 8:29) 7.F. Christ’s bodily resurrection guarantees believers’ future resurrection, culminating in glorification, triumphing over sin and death. (1 Corinthians 15:20-23; Romans 6:4-5; John 11:25-26; 1 Corinthians 15:54-57; Acts 2:24; Romans 8:11; Philippians 3:21; Colossians 3:4; 1 Peter 1:3; John 14:19; 1 Thessalonians 4:14; Revelation 1:18) 7.G. Salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone, justifying believers and transforming them into His likeness, not by works but producing good works as fruit. (Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5; Romans 3:28; Galatians 2:16; John 6:29; Romans 5:1; James 2:17; Philippians 2:13; Romans 11:6; Acts 16:31; Colossians 2:6; 2 Timothy 1:9) 7.H. Humanity, dead in sin and unable to save itself, depends entirely on God’s gracious initiative for redemption. (Ephesians 2:1-5; Romans 3:10-12; Colossians 2:13; John 6:44; Romans 8:7-8; Genesis 6:5; Jeremiah 17:9; Titus 3:3; Psalm 14:1-3; Romans 5:6; John 3:19; 1 Corinthians 2:14) 7.I. God’s effectual call draws the elect to salvation, overcoming their resistance by His irresistible grace. (John 6:37,44; Romans 8:30; Acts 13:48; Ephesians 1:4-5; 2 Timothy 1:9; John 10:27; Romans 9:16; 1 Corinthians 1:9; Acts 16:14; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; Matthew 22:14; Philippians 1:29) 7.J. Regeneration by the Holy Spirit renews the heart, enabling sinners to repent and believe in Christ for salvation. (Titus 3:5; John 3:3-5; Ezekiel 36:26-27; 2 Corinthians 5:17; 1 Peter 1:23; John 1:13; Ephesians 2:5; Colossians 2:13; James 1:18; Romans 6:4; Deuteronomy 30:6; Acts 3:19) 7.K. Saving faith, a divine gift granted by the Spirit, trusts in Christ alone, inevitably producing obedience and good works as evidence of salvation. (Ephesians 2:8; Philippians 1:29; Hebrews 11:6; John 6:29; James 2:17; Acts 13:48; Romans 10:17; Galatians 5:6; 2 Corinthians 4:13; John 3:36; 1 John 3:23; Matthew 7:20) 7.L. The Holy Spirit seals believers, assuring their perseverance in faith, and sanctifies them throughout their lives, culminating in glorification at the resurrection, secured by God’s sovereignty. (Ephesians 1:13-14; John 10:27-29; Romans 8:29-30; Philippians 1:6; 2 Timothy 1:12; 1 Peter 1:5; Jude 1:24; Hebrews 7:25; Romans 8:38-39; John 6:39; 1 Corinthians 1:8; 2 Thessalonians 3:3)
8. Kubernesological Essentials (Governments)
8.A. God instituted the governments of the individual, family, nation, church, and state, each with distinct roles under His supreme authority; individuals are responsible to God for their faith and conduct. (Romans 13:1; Genesis 1:28; Ephesians 3:15; Colossians 1:16; Titus 3:1; Genesis 9:6; 1 Timothy 2:1-2; Acts 17:26; Psalm 22:28; Daniel 4:32; Romans 14:12; Hebrews 4:13) 8.B. Leadership in each sphere is reserved for qualified men who meet God’s standards of character and competence, striving for faithfulness to Christ. (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9; 1 Peter 5:1-3; Exodus 18:21; Acts 6:3; 1 Timothy 2:12; 1 Corinthians 11:3; Hebrews 13:7; 2 Timothy 2:2; Deuteronomy 1:13; Psalm 2:10-12; Daniel 2:21) 8.C. The church’s role is to proclaim the gospel, administer ordinances, and exercise discipline under Christ’s headship. (Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 2:42; 1 Corinthians 11:23-25; Colossians 1:18; Ephesians 4:11-12; 1 Timothy 3:15; Hebrews 10:24-25; Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:2; Matthew 18:17; 1 Corinthians 5:4-5; Titus 1:9) 8.D. The family, as the foundational unit, reflects Christ’s love for the church, making and discipling the next generation. (Ephesians 5:22-25; Genesis 1:28; Colossians 3:18-21; Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Psalm 127:3-5; Proverbs 22:6; Ephesians 6:4; Genesis 2:24; 1 Timothy 5:8; Psalm 78:5-7; Joshua 24:15; Titus 2:4) 8.E. The nation, as an extension of families, works together toward God, upholding His moral law and promoting human flourishing. (Acts 17:26-27; Romans 13:4; Deuteronomy 4:6-8; Psalm 33:12; Proverbs 14:34; Genesis 11:6; Isaiah 60:12; Colossians 3:23-24; Psalm 67:4; Jeremiah 29:7; Micah 4:2; Daniel 4:27) 8.F. The state maintains order, justice, and protects the innocent, bearing the sword as God’s servant for the common good. (Romans 13:1-4; 1 Peter 2:13-14; Genesis 9:6; Proverbs 21:15; Psalm 82:3-4; Exodus 18:21; Deuteronomy 16:18-20; Isaiah 1:17; 1 Timothy 2:2; Proverbs 29:4; Micah 6:8; Ecclesiastes 8:11) 8.G. Each governmental sphere maintains its distinct jurisdiction, preventing overreach and preserving God-ordained order. (Romans 13:1; Ephesians 5:23; Numbers 1:50-51; 2 Chronicles 26:18; Matthew 22:21; Acts 5:29; Colossians 1:18; Deuteronomy 17:12; 1 Corinthians 12:28; Exodus 18:25-26; Titus 3:1; 1 Peter 2:17) 8.H. All governments derive their authority from God and are accountable to His ultimate authority, not human whim or power. (Daniel 2:21; John 19:11; Romans 13:1; Psalm 75:6-7; Proverbs 8:15; Colossians 1:16; Isaiah 40:23; Acts 17:26; Psalm 2:10-12; Daniel 4:17; Revelation 1:5; Job 12:23) 8.I. Christians submit to governing authorities in all lawful commands, resisting only when obedience to God is compromised. (Romans 13:1-5; 1 Peter 2:13-17; Acts 5:29; Titus 3:1; Matthew 22:21; Daniel 3:18; Exodus 1:17; Hebrews 11:23; 1 Timothy 2:1-2; Mark 12:17; Acts 4:19; 1 Samuel 22:17) 8.J. The church intercedes for rulers, seeking their wisdom and righteousness for the sake of the gospel’s advance. (1 Timothy 2:1-4; Jeremiah 29:7; Ezra 6:10; Psalm 72:1; Proverbs 21:1; 2 Chronicles 7:14; Daniel 2:21; Acts 4:29; Romans 13:7; Colossians 4:3; Nehemiah 1:11; 1 Peter 2:17) 8.K. The state holds no jurisdiction over the church’s doctrine, worship, or spiritual mission, which remain under Christ alone. (Colossians 1:18; Matthew 16:18; Acts 5:29; Ephesians 1:22; John 18:36; Hebrews 12:28; 1 Timothy 3:15; Revelation 2:10; Psalm 47:8; Matthew 28:18; 2 Corinthians 10:4; Isaiah 33:22) 8.L. All authority ultimately serves God’s redemptive rule, culminating in Christ’s eternal kingdom over all creation. (Psalm 22:28; Revelation 11:15; Matthew 28:18; Daniel 4:34-35; Philippians 2:9-11; Psalm 2:8; 1 Corinthians 15:24-25; Isaiah 9:7; Colossians 1:16-17; Ephesians 1:21; Revelation 19:16; John 17:2)
9. Ecclesiological Essentials (Church)
9.A. The church is the universal body of all redeemed, born of the Spirit, and justified by faith, new covenant believers, with Christ as the only Head, united across all ages and nations. (Ephesians 4:4-6; Colossians 1:18; 1 Corinthians 12:13; Ephesians 2:19-22; John 10:16; Revelation 7:9; Ephesians 1:22-23; Acts 2:47; 1 Peter 2:9; Hebrews 12:22-23; Romans 12:5; Galatians 3:26-28) 9.B. Local churches gather for worship, fellowship, missions, preaching, pastoring, teaching, discipling, and evangelizing under qualified male leadership, with no state authority interfering with its worship or sacred practice. (Acts 2:42; Hebrews 10:25; 1 Timothy 3:1-7; Matthew 28:19-20; Ephesians 4:11-12; Acts 20:28; Titus 1:5-9; 1 Peter 5:2; Romans 16:4-5; Acts 15:2-3,30-31; 1 Corinthians 11:23-25; Hebrews 13:17) 9.C. Elders shepherd the flock with integrity, teaching sound doctrine, upholding the true gospel, and protecting the church from error. (1 Peter 5:1-4; Titus 1:9; Acts 20:28-31; 1 Timothy 3:2; 2 Timothy 4:2-3; Hebrews 13:17; Ephesians 4:11; 1 Timothy 5:17; Acts 14:23; Jude 1:3; Philippians 1:27; 1 Thessalonians 5:12) 9.D. Deacons serve the church’s practical needs, supporting its mission and unity under elder oversight. (Acts 6:1-6; 1 Timothy 3:8-13; Philippians 1:1; Romans 16:1; Acts 20:35; 1 Corinthians 12:28; Titus 1:5; Luke 22:26; 1 Peter 4:10-11; Hebrews 6:10; Acts 11:29; Romans 12:13) 9.E. Church leaders equip believers for ministry, fostering growth and service to advance God’s kingdom. (Ephesians 4:11-12; 2 Timothy 2:2; 1 Peter 4:10; Colossians 1:28; Hebrews 5:12; Romans 12:6-8; 1 Corinthians 12:7; Ephesians 2:10; Matthew 25:21; 1 Timothy 4:14; Acts 13:2-3; Titus 2:1) 9.F. Church membership fosters accountability, mutual care, and commitment to the body of Christ. (Hebrews 13:17; 1 Corinthians 12:25-27; Romans 12:5; Galatians 6:1-2; Matthew 18:15-17; Acts 2:42-47; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; Ephesians 4:16; Hebrews 10:24; 1 Peter 5:5; James 5:16; Colossians 3:16) 9.G. Biblical standards for doctrine and conduct protect the church from corruption and false teaching. (Titus 2:1; 2 Timothy 1:13; Galatians 1:8-9; 1 Timothy 6:3-5; 2 Peter 2:1-3; Acts 20:29-30; Jude 1:4; Ephesians 4:14; Romans 16:17; 2 John 1:9-10; 1 Corinthians 5:11; Revelation 2:20) 9.H. The church is commissioned to make disciples of all nations, proclaiming Christ’s lordship to the ends of the earth. (Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8; Mark 16:15; Romans 10:14-15; Colossians 1:23; Psalm 96:3; Acts 13:47; Matthew 24:14; 1 Corinthians 9:16; 2 Timothy 4:5; Luke 24:47; Revelation 14:6) 9.I. Baptism and the Lord’s Supper, as ordinances instituted by Christ, symbolize union with Him and His atoning work, conveying no regenerating grace or sacrificial substance. (Matthew 28:19; 1 Corinthians 11:23-25; Acts 2:38; Romans 6:3-4; Luke 22:19; Colossians 2:12; 1 Peter 3:21; Acts 8:12; Matthew 3:15; 1 Corinthians 10:16; Acts 22:16; Galatians 3:27) 9.J. The church pursues unity in the Spirit and truth, reflecting Christ’s prayer for His people. (Ephesians 4:3-6; John 17:21-23; 1 Corinthians 1:10; Philippians 2:2; Psalm 133:1; Romans 15:5-6; Colossians 3:14; 1 Peter 3:8; Ephesians 2:14; John 13:35; Acts 4:32; Galatians 3:28) 9.K. Church discipline, exercised in love, restores the wayward and preserves congregational purity and holiness. (Matthew 18:15-17; 1 Corinthians 5:4-5; Galatians 6:1; 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15; Titus 3:10; Hebrews 12:11; 1 Timothy 5:20; James 5:19-20; Leviticus 19:17; 2 Corinthians 2:6-8; Matthew 16:19; Revelation 3:19) 9.L. The church equips believers to serve one another and the world, reflecting God’s love and advancing His mission. (Ephesians 4:12; 1 Peter 4:10-11; Galatians 5:13; Romans 12:11; Hebrews 6:10; Colossians 3:23-24; Matthew 5:16; John 13:34-35; Acts 11:29; Philippians 2:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:14; 2 Corinthians 9:8)
10. Latreuological Essentials (Worship)
10.A. Worship is a whole-life response to God’s glory, offered as a living sacrifice through public corporate, family, and personal devotion, liturgy, and vocational service, aligned with Scripture and exalting Christ, flowing from a regenerate heart empowered by the Spirit, incorporating various orderly spiritual gifts, avoiding manipulation or chaos, to glorify God alone. (Romans 12:1; John 4:23-24; Colossians 3:17; Psalm 29:2; Hebrews 13:15; 1 Corinthians 10:31; Psalm 100:2; John 3:3-5; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; 1 Corinthians 14:33,40; Ephesians 5:19; Revelation 4:11) 10.B. Corporate worship includes prayer, Scripture reading, preaching, singing, and ordinances, conducted in reverence and order. (Acts 2:42; Colossians 3:16; 1 Timothy 4:13; Ephesians 5:19; Hebrews 10:25; 1 Corinthians 14:33,40; Psalm 95:6; Nehemiah 8:6; Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 11:23-25; Psalm 96:9; John 4:24) 10.C. Qualified men, called and gifted by God, lead public worship, ensuring faithfulness to biblical truth. (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:9; 1 Timothy 2:12; Acts 20:28; Hebrews 13:17; 2 Timothy 4:2; 1 Corinthians 14:34-35; Ephesians 4:11; 1 Peter 5:2; Nehemiah 8:4; Acts 6:4; 1 Timothy 5:17) 10.D. Women serve vital roles in worship by discipling women and children, enhancing the church’s praise. (Titus 2:3-5; Proverbs 31:26; Acts 18:26; 1 Timothy 5:10; Romans 16:1-2; Philippians 4:3; Psalm 68:11; Luke 2:36-38; 1 Corinthians 11:5; Acts 16:14; Proverbs 1:8; 2 Timothy 1:5) 10.E. Family worship, led by fathers, involves daily Scripture, prayer, and instruction to nurture faith. (Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Ephesians 6:4; Joshua 24:15; Psalm 78:4-6; Genesis 18:19; Proverbs 22:6; Colossians 3:21; Deuteronomy 11:19; Psalm 119:9; 2 Timothy 3:15; Exodus 12:26-27; Psalm 145:4) 10.F. Weekly corporate worship on the Lord’s Day commemorates Christ’s resurrection and renews believers’ covenant commitment. (Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:2; Revelation 1:10; Hebrews 10:25; Exodus 20:8; John 20:1; Psalm 118:24; Acts 2:1; Colossians 2:16-17; Mark 2:27; Isaiah 58:13; Matthew 28:1) 10.G. Vocational work, done unto God’s glory, constitutes an act of worship when offered with excellence and integrity. (Colossians 3:23-24; Ephesians 6:5-8; Genesis 2:15; 1 Corinthians 10:31; Proverbs 16:3; Ecclesiastes 9:10; 1 Thessalonians 4:11; Matthew 5:16; Romans 12:11; 2 Thessalonians 3:10; Psalm 90:17; Titus 2:9-10) 10.H. Worship engages the whole person—heart, mind, and strength—reflecting love for God and neighbor. (Mark 12:30; Deuteronomy 6:5; Psalm 103:1; Matthew 22:37; Romans 12:1; Psalm 29:2; John 4:23; Psalm 86:12; Colossians 3:16; Hebrews 13:15; Psalm 95:1-2; 1 Chronicles 16:29) 10.I. Private devotion—prayer, meditation, and study—complements corporate worship, fostering personal communion with God. (Matthew 6:6; Psalm 1:2; Colossians 3:16; Daniel 6:10; Psalm 119:11; Philippians 4:6; Psalm 63:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Luke 5:16; Psalm 119:97; Acts 17:11; 2 Timothy 2:15) 10.J. The ordinances of baptism and the Lord’s Supper are worshipful acts, proclaiming Christ’s death and resurrection. (Matthew 28:19; 1 Corinthians 11:23-25; Acts 2:38; Romans 6:4; Luke 22:19; Colossians 2:12; 1 Corinthians 10:16; Acts 8:12; Matthew 26:26-28; 1 Peter 3:21; Acts 22:16; John 6:54) 10.K. Praise, through song and proclamation, exalts God’s name and attributes, uniting believers in adoration. (Psalm 96:1-2; Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16; Psalm 150:1-6; Hebrews 13:15; Psalm 34:1; Revelation 5:12; Psalm 100:4; 1 Chronicles 16:29; Psalm 29:2; John 4:24; Acts 16:25) 10.L. True worship excludes idolatry, focusing solely on God through Christ by the Spirit’s power, glorifying Him alone. (Exodus 20:3-5; John 4:23-24; 1 Corinthians 10:14; Isaiah 42:8; Matthew 4:10; Colossians 3:5; Psalm 115:1; John 16:14; Romans 11:36; Revelation 19:10; Deuteronomy 6:13; 1 John 5:21)
11. Missiological Essentials (Missions)
11.A. The Great Commission mandates proclaiming Christ’s death and resurrection to make disciples of all nations, reflecting God’s heart for the lost and His global reign. (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8; Mark 16:15; Romans 1:16; Luke 24:47; John 20:21; Acts 13:47; Matthew 24:14; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4; Psalm 96:3; Romans 10:14-15; Revelation 7:9-10) 11.B. Missions flow from God’s love, seeking the salvation of sinners from every tribe, tongue, and nation. (John 3:16; Revelation 5:9; 2 Peter 3:9; Romans 10:13; 1 Timothy 2:4; Ezekiel 33:11; Acts 17:27; Psalm 67:2; Luke 19:10; Titus 2:11; John 10:16; Isaiah 49:6) 11.C. The gospel, the power of God for salvation, must be preached boldly and clearly to all people without distinction. (Romans 1:16; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4; Acts 4:12; 2 Timothy 4:2; Romans 10:17; Ephesians 1:13; Colossians 1:23; 1 Corinthians 1:18; Mark 16:15; Acts 20:27; Galatians 1:8; 2 Corinthians 4:5) 11.D. Evangelism calls sinners to repentance and faith in Christ, warning of judgment and offering eternal life. (Acts 17:30-31; Mark 1:15; John 3:36; Acts 3:19; Romans 10:9; Matthew 4:17; Luke 13:3; Acts 20:21; John 5:24; 2 Corinthians 5:20; Acts 26:20; Hebrews 2:3) 11.E. Church planting establishes local bodies of believers to worship, grow, and extend God’s kingdom in every region. (Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5; Matthew 16:18; Acts 13:1-3; 1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:12; Acts 11:26; Romans 16:5; 1 Thessalonians 1:1; Acts 18:11; Colossians 4:15; Philemon 1:2) 11.F. Discipleship trains believers in obedience to Christ’s commands, equipping them to multiply the mission. (Matthew 28:20; 2 Timothy 2:2; Colossians 1:28; Ephesians 4:12-13; John 14:15; Titus 2:1; Acts 20:28; Hebrews 5:12; 1 Timothy 4:7; Matthew 5:19; 2 Corinthians 3:18; 1 Peter 2:2) 11.G. Missions prioritize unreached nations, biblically defined as distinct people groups, not just geopolitical entities, ensuring the gospel reaches every tribe and tongue. (Matthew 24:14; Revelation 7:9-10; Romans 15:20-21; Acts 1:8; Psalm 96:3; Genesis 12:3; Isaiah 49:6; Matthew 28:19; Luke 24:47; Acts 13:47; Psalm 22:27; Galatians 3:8) 11.H. Believers are ambassadors for Christ, reconciling the world to God through word and deed with urgency for His glory. (2 Corinthians 5:20; Colossians 4:5-6; 1 Peter 3:15; Matthew 5:16; Philippians 2:15; Acts 1:8; 2 Timothy 4:5; Romans 12:11; Ephesians 6:20; 1 Corinthians 9:22; John 13:35; Titus 2:10) 11.I. The church supports missions through prayer, resources, and sending qualified laborers into the harvest. (Acts 13:2-3; Philippians 4:15-18; Romans 10:15; Matthew 9:37-38; 3 John 1:6-8; Acts 14:26-27; 1 Corinthians 9:7; Ephesians 6:18-19; Luke 10:2; Romans 15:24; Acts 20:38; Hebrews 13:18) 11.J. Advancing the Kingdom involves confronting evil, promoting justice, and displaying God’s reign in all spheres of life. (Matthew 6:10; Isaiah 61:1-2; Micah 6:8; Psalm 82:3-4; Luke 4:18-19; Romans 14:17; James 1:27; Matthew 5:6; Acts 8:12; Colossians 1:13; Hebrews 12:28; 1 Peter 2:12) 11.K. The success of missions hastens Christ’s return, fulfilling God’s plan for the nations’ redemption. (Matthew 24:14; Revelation 7:9-10; Acts 3:21; 2 Peter 3:12; Mark adiator:13; Romans 11:25; Habakkuk 2:11; Revelation 5:9; Matthew 24:14; Acts 1:8; Romans 15:20; Psalm 22:27; Isaiah 52:7; Luke 24:47; John 17:3; 2 Peter 3:9) 11.L. Every tribe and tongue will worship Christ, uniting in eternal praise, as the culmination of the missionary task. (Revelation 7:9-10; Psalm 96:3; Philippians 2:10-11; Revelation 5:9; Psalm 22:27; Isaiah 25:6-8; Romans 15:11; Revelation 15:4; Psalm 86:9; Revelation 21:3-4; Malachi 1:11; John 12:32)
12. Eschatological Essentials (End Times)
12.A. Christ will return bodily in glory at an unknown time, visible to all, to consummate His kingdom and fulfill God’s redemptive plan. (Acts 1:11; Matthew 24:30; Revelation 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; Matthew 25:31; John 14:3; Titus 2:13; 2 Timothy 4:1; Hebrews 9:28; Mark 13:32; Revelation 22:20; Philippians 3:20) 12.B. His return will be sudden and unexpected, urging believers to live in readiness and holiness. (Matthew 24:44; 1 Thessalonians 5:2-3; Mark 13:33; Luke 12:40; 2 Peter 3:11-13; Matthew 25:13; Revelation 16:15; 1 John 2:28; Luke 21:34-36; 1 Peter 1:17; Hebrews 10:37; James 5:8) 12.C. The resurrection of the dead will occur, with believers raised to eternal life and blessedness in the new creation, and the unrighteous to final judgment. (1 Corinthians 15:51-52; John 5:28-29; Revelation 20:12-13; Daniel 12:2; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; Matthew 25:46; Acts 24:15; Romans 6:5; Philippians 3:21; John 6:40; Revelation 21:1-4; 2 Corinthians 5:10) 12.D. Christ will judge all humanity, separating the righteous from the wicked based on their deeds as evidence of faith. (Matthew 25:31-33,46; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Romans 2:6-8; Revelation 20:12; John 5:22; Acts 17:31; Romans 14:10; Matthew 16:27; Ecclesiastes 12:14; Hebrews 4:13; 1 Peter 4:5; Revelation 22:12) 12.E. The unrighteous will face eternal punishment, satisfying God’s justice and wrath, separated from His presence forever. (Matthew 25:46; 2 Thessalonians 1:9; Revelation 21:8; Matthew 13:50; Luke 16:26; John 3:36; Revelation 14:11; Mark 9:48; Romans 2:5; Isaiah 66:24; Jude 1:13; Hebrews 10:31) 12.F. Believers will inherit the new heavens and new earth, dwelling with God in perfect fellowship and joy. (Revelation 21:1-4; 2 Peter 3:13; Isaiah 65:17; Romans 8:21; Revelation 22:3-5; John 14:2-3; 1 Corinthians 2:9; Psalm 16:11; Matthew 5:12; Revelation 7:16-17; Isaiah 25:8; 1 Peter 1:4) 12.G. Satan and his forces will be cast into the lake of fire, ending all rebellion against God’s rule. (Revelation 20:10; Matthew 25:41; Revelation 19:20; Genesis 3:15; Romans 16:20; John 12:31; Hebrews 2:14; Revelation 12:9; 2 Thessalonians 2:8; Luke 10:18; Colossians 2:15; 1 John 3:8) 12.H. God’s kingdom will be fully consummated, with Christ reigning eternally over a restored creation. (Revelation 11:15; 1 Corinthians 15:24-28; Daniel 7:14; Revelation 22:5; Isaiah 9:7; Luke 1:33; Psalm 145:13; Ephesians 1:10; Revelation 21:5; Micah 4:1; Zechariah 14:9; Philippians 2:10-11) 12.I. The new creation will be free from sin, death, and suffering, fulfilling God’s promise of renewal. (Revelation 21:4; Romans 8:21; Isaiah 25:8; Revelation 22:3; 1 Corinthians 15:26; Hosea 13:14; Revelation 7:17; Isaiah 35:10; Romans 6:23; 2 Peter 3:13; Psalm 17:15; Nahum 1:15) 12.J. Believers will see God face to face, knowing Him fully as the ultimate reward of redemption. (1 Corinthians 13:12; Revelation 22:4; 1 John 3:2; Matthew 5:8; Psalm 17:15; John 17:24; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Exodus 33:20; Revelation 21:3; Job 19:26-27; Hebrews 12:14; 1 Peter 1:8) 12.K. The hope of Christ’s imminent return motivates holiness, ecclesial purity, evangelistic urgency, and missional success in the present age. (Titus 2:13; 1 John 3:3; 2 Peter 3:11-13; Matthew 24:42; Philippians 3:20; James 5:7-8; 1 Thessalonians 5:6; Revelation 22:20; Hebrews 10:25; Luke 12:35; 1 Peter 1:13; 2 Timothy 4:8) 12.L. All creation will glorify God eternally, as His mercy and justice are magnified in the redeemed and the judged. (Revelation 5:13; Psalm 86:9; Philippians 2:10-11; Revelation 15:4; Romans 11:36; Psalm 19:1; Isaiah 45:23; Revelation 4:11; Nehemiah 9:6; Habakkuk 2:14; Psalm 150:6; Ephesians 3:10)