major doctrines of christianity © 2008 multimedia apologetics

Major Doctrines of Major Doctrines of ChristianityChristianity

© 2008 Multimedia Apologetics© 2008 Multimedia Apologetics

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OutlineOutline

Modern ChurchModern Church

The First Century SettingThe First Century Setting

The Need for DoctrineThe Need for Doctrine

The Development of DoctrineThe Development of Doctrine

The Inspiration of ScriptureThe Inspiration of Scripture

The Major DoctrinesThe Major Doctrines


What is a Doctrine?What is a Doctrine?

Doctrine:Doctrine: A belief (or system of beliefs) A belief (or system of beliefs) accepted as authoritative by some group or schoolaccepted as authoritative by some group or school

For the Christian Church:For the Christian Church: Things that we affirm without question because they Things that we affirm without question because they

are so clearly stated in scriptureare so clearly stated in scripture

a.k.a Dogma:a.k.a Dogma: A doctrine or code of beliefs accepted as authoritativeA doctrine or code of beliefs accepted as authoritative


Key DefinitionsKey Definitions

Orthodox:Orthodox:– Adhering to what is commonly acceptedAdhering to what is commonly accepted

"an orthodox view of the world“"an orthodox view of the world“

Heresy:Heresy:– A belief that rejects the orthodox tenets of a A belief that rejects the orthodox tenets of a

religionreligion


Modern Church IssuesModern Church Issues

1.1. God cannot errGod cannot err

2.2. The Bible is the Word of GodThe Bible is the Word of God

3.3. Therefore, the Bible cannot err*Therefore, the Bible cannot err*

*Here we are referring to the original manuscripts *Here we are referring to the original manuscripts written by the inspired writers. We do not have these written by the inspired writers. We do not have these manuscripts but we do have reliable copies.manuscripts but we do have reliable copies.


1.1. God cannot errGod cannot err

2.2. The Bible is the Word of GodThe Bible is the Word of God

3.3. Therefore, the Bible cannot errTherefore, the Bible cannot err

This is the real issue in churches today!!!!

Modern Church IssuesModern Church Issues


Modern Church IssuesModern Church IssuesIf the Bible is the Word of God, then the If the Bible is the Word of God, then the major doctrines and moral teachings are major doctrines and moral teachings are obviousobvious

The crisis in the church today is that many The crisis in the church today is that many do not believe the Bible is the Word of Goddo not believe the Bible is the Word of God

If the Bible is just another fallible book then If the Bible is just another fallible book then one person’s view is as good as any otherone person’s view is as good as any other

If the Bible is merely a human book, If the Bible is merely a human book, doctrine is meaninglessdoctrine is meaningless


Modern Church IssuesModern Church IssuesTypical Modern Views of the BibleTypical Modern Views of the Bible1.1. The Bible may contain some of Gods Words The Bible may contain some of Gods Words

but it was corrupted over the years but it was corrupted over the years 2.2. The Bible is a purely human book and is as The Bible is a purely human book and is as

fallible as any other human bookfallible as any other human book

Either view leads humans being the final judge of Either view leads humans being the final judge of what is right or wrong and moral relativismwhat is right or wrong and moral relativismSolid evidence shows 1 & 2 to be false—See Josh Solid evidence shows 1 & 2 to be false—See Josh McDowell, McDowell, A Ready DefenseA Ready Defense


Modern Church IssuesModern Church IssuesTolerance is exalted as the supreme value in our Tolerance is exalted as the supreme value in our culturecultureTolerance and acceptance are fineTolerance and acceptance are fine– Jesus said that we are to love our neighborsJesus said that we are to love our neighbors

But,But,

Jesus also said that people make mistakes Jesus also said that people make mistakes because they do not know the scripturebecause they do not know the scriptureJesus clearly taught that some things were right Jesus clearly taught that some things were right and some things were wrongand some things were wrongJesus clearly taught that some thing are true, Jesus clearly taught that some thing are true, and some things are not trueand some things are not true


Is Truth Relative or Absolute?Is Truth Relative or Absolute?

•Is it possible for the green object above a circle and a square?•It is true for all people that the object is a circle•Truth is absolute and applies to all people


How Do We Know Something is How Do We Know Something is True?True?

Is something true just because someone Is something true just because someone said it?said it?We can know something is true or false by We can know something is true or false by investigating the facts!investigating the facts!– Truth is the way things really areTruth is the way things really are


The person who claims that The person who claims that everything is relative says: everything is relative says:

““Truth is relative”Truth is relative”

What they mean: What they mean: One person’s truth is different than another person’s truthOne person’s truth is different than another person’s truthIt’s all relativeIt’s all relative

What do you say to a person who says this?What do you say to a person who says this?

Is this statement also relative truth?Is this statement also relative truth?

To say that “truth is relative” is self defeating!To say that “truth is relative” is self defeating!


Truth Cannot Be Relative!Truth Cannot Be Relative!

Science could never make any progressScience could never make any progressYou couldn’t travel to a different place and get there You couldn’t travel to a different place and get there on time—You might not be in the right placeon time—You might not be in the right placeYou wouldn’t even be sure who you wereYou wouldn’t even be sure who you wereYou could never be sure who won the World SeriesYou could never be sure who won the World SeriesYour truth is my truthYour truth is my truth– As long as your truth is supported by factsAs long as your truth is supported by facts

Truth is universal!Truth is universal!– That’s a real blow to the postmodern world!That’s a real blow to the postmodern world!– This means that not all religions are trueThis means that not all religions are true


Can All Religions Be True?Can All Religions Be True?

Major world religions contradict each otherMajor world religions contradict each other•Either all are false or Either all are false or oneone is true! is true!•Question is: Which is supported by evidence!Question is: Which is supported by evidence!


Truth and DoctrineTruth and Doctrine

Discussions of doctrines are meaningless Discussions of doctrines are meaningless if parties do not subscribe to:if parties do not subscribe to:– Inspiration of ScriptureInspiration of Scripture

The Bible is from God—all of it!The Bible is from God—all of it!

– Objective truthObjective truthi.e. : truth can be known by collecting facts i.e. : truth can be known by collecting facts

Liberal Seminaries avoid Doctrine and Liberal Seminaries avoid Doctrine and Systematic Theology from which it derivesSystematic Theology from which it derives


Revelation From GodRevelation From God

General RevelationGeneral Revelation– Creation and all of its wonderCreation and all of its wonder

Special RevelationSpecial Revelation– ScriptureScripture

Old and New TestamentOld and New Testament


Progressive RevelationProgressive Revelation

God progressively revealed His truthGod progressively revealed His truth– Abraham Abraham – Moses and the Patriarchs Moses and the Patriarchs – David and SolomonDavid and Solomon– ProphetsProphets– His SonHis Son– Apostles and their associatesApostles and their associates

With the advent of His Son, God’s With the advent of His Son, God’s revelation is completerevelation is complete


The coming of the Son added volumes to our The coming of the Son added volumes to our knowledge about God and His plan for mankindknowledge about God and His plan for mankind

Joh 14:5-9 . . . Jesus said to him, "I am the way, Joh 14:5-9 . . . Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me. "If you had known Me, you Father but through Me. "If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; from now on you would have known My Father also; from now on you know Him, and have seen Him." Philip said to Him, know Him, and have seen Him." Philip said to Him, "Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us." "Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us." Jesus said to him, "Have I been so long with you, Jesus said to him, "Have I been so long with you, and and yetyet you have not come to know Me, Philip? He you have not come to know Me, Philip? He who has seen Me has seen the Father; how who has seen Me has seen the Father; how cancan you you say, 'Show us the Father'? say, 'Show us the Father'?


The coming of the Son added volumes to our The coming of the Son added volumes to our knowledge about God and His plan for mankindknowledge about God and His plan for mankind

Joh 4:25-26 The woman said to Him, "I Joh 4:25-26 The woman said to Him, "I know that Messiah is coming (He who is know that Messiah is coming (He who is called Christ); when that One comes, He called Christ); when that One comes, He will declare all things to us.“ Jesus said to will declare all things to us.“ Jesus said to her, "I who speak to you am her, "I who speak to you am He.He." "


A memo from the home officeA memo from the home office

Through the New Testament, the early Through the New Testament, the early church received a 500 page memo for the church received a 500 page memo for the home office home office


Books Added to the BibleBooks Added to the BibleGod inspired the books of the BibleGod inspired the books of the Bible

God’s people discovered the books that were inspiredGod’s people discovered the books that were inspired

What was at issue?What was at issue?– Was the book written by an apostle or prophet of God?Was the book written by an apostle or prophet of God?

– Was the writer confirmed by acts of God?Was the writer confirmed by acts of God?

– Did the message tell the truth about God?Did the message tell the truth about God?

– Did the book have the power of God?Did the book have the power of God?

– Was it accepted by the people of GodWas it accepted by the people of God

Those failing these criteria became the “Lost Books of Those failing these criteria became the “Lost Books of the Bible”the Bible”– Really, they were not lost, but rather rejectedReally, they were not lost, but rather rejected


Development of DoctrineDevelopment of Doctrine

Doctrine was developed because early Doctrine was developed because early Christians believed the entire Bible to be Christians believed the entire Bible to be the Word of Godthe Word of God

A major motivating factor for developing A major motivating factor for developing doctrine was the countering of errordoctrine was the countering of error


Church Fathers on the ScripturesChurch Fathers on the Scriptures

Clement of Rome—AD 96Clement of Rome—AD 96 ““Look carefully into the Scriptures, which are the Look carefully into the Scriptures, which are the

true utterances of the Holy Spirit.”true utterances of the Holy Spirit.”

Clement of Alexandria—AD 195Clement of Alexandria—AD 195““He then, who believes the divine Scriptures with He then, who believes the divine Scriptures with sure judgment, receives the voice of God, who sure judgment, receives the voice of God, who bestowed the Scriptures.”bestowed the Scriptures.”

Shows that Doctrine of Inspiration was not a late Shows that Doctrine of Inspiration was not a late development!development!


Why did errors and heresies arise?Why did errors and heresies arise?

Those in error:Those in error:Did not know the scriptureDid not know the scriptureThey did not believe the scripturesThey did not believe the scripturesThey accepted personal revelation and the words They accepted personal revelation and the words of those who were not eyewitnessesof those who were not eyewitnesses

Jesus says:Jesus says:Mat 22:29 . . . “You are mistaken, not understanding Mat 22:29 . . . “You are mistaken, not understanding

the Scriptures nor the power of God.”the Scriptures nor the power of God.”


Challenges from Inside The ChurchChallenges from Inside The ChurchEbionismEbionism Rejected the gospel of grace and stressed keeping of the law Rejected the gospel of grace and stressed keeping of the law

(see Galatians)(see Galatians)

GnosticismGnosticism Taught that matter was evil and spirit was. Merged pagan Taught that matter was evil and spirit was. Merged pagan beliefs and dualism with Christianitybeliefs and dualism with Christianity

MontanismMontanism Required asceticism and believed in continual revelation from Required asceticism and believed in continual revelation from GodGod

ModalismModalism God is one person appearing in different modesGod is one person appearing in different modes

ArianismArianism Denied that Jesus was fully GodDenied that Jesus was fully God

DocetismDocetism Affirms deity of Christ but denied humanity and appearance in Affirms deity of Christ but denied humanity and appearance in the fleshthe flesh

NestorianismNestorianism Posited that Christ was two person, both divine and human—Posited that Christ was two person, both divine and human—only human person died on the crossonly human person died on the cross

MonophysitismMonophysitism

Mo-naw-fi-si-tismMo-naw-fi-si-tism

Posited that human and divine natures in Christ are Posited that human and divine natures in Christ are commingledcommingled


The Development of DoctrineThe Development of Doctrine

AD33 95 170 313 325 381 451 Cross NT

Complete

ConstantineConverts

Nicea Chaceldon Constantinople

Councils

MuratorianFragment

Persecution of the Church

“Survival Mode”

Doctrine Formalized to Protect Clear Meaning

of Scripture

Gnostics Heretics


The Church FathersThe Church FathersGroupGroup Time Time

PeriodPeriodPrimary Primary GoalsGoals

ExamplesExamples CommentsComments

Apostolic Apostolic FathersFathers

AD 95-AD 95-150150

Edify and Edify and InterpretInterpret

IgnatiusIgnatius

ClementClement

PolycarpPolycarp

Knew and followed Knew and followed apostlesapostles

ApologistsApologists AD 140-AD 140-200200

Defended Defended Christianity in Christianity in the Empirethe Empire

TertullianTertullian

Justin MartyrJustin Martyr

AthenagorasAthenagoras

PolemicistsPolemicists AD 180-AD 180-225225

Refute false Refute false doctrine anddoctrine and

heresyheresy

IrenaeusIrenaeus

CyprianCyprian

Clement of Clement of Alex.Alex.

Developed early Developed early doctrinesdoctrines

ScientificScientific

TheologiansTheologians

AD 225-AD 225-460460

Development Development of Christian of Christian theologytheology

JeromeJerome

AmbroseAmbrose

AugustineAugustine

AthanasiusAthanasius

Developed and Developed and refined doctrinesrefined doctrines


Where would Christianity be today if Where would Christianity be today if false teaching and confusion had been false teaching and confusion had been

allowed in its earliest days?allowed in its earliest days?


What Does Paul Say What Does Paul Say About Doctrine?About Doctrine?

2Ti 4:3-52Ti 4:3-5 For the time will come when For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but they will not endure sound doctrine; but wantingwanting to have their ears tickled, they will to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths. turn aside to myths.


How We Use the BibleHow We Use the BibleBible StudyBible Study– Investigation of a particular passage to determine Investigation of a particular passage to determine

meaning and applications to our livesmeaning and applications to our lives– Well and good, but conclusions must be harmonized Well and good, but conclusions must be harmonized

with the complete counsel of scripturewith the complete counsel of scripture

TheologyTheology– Study all of the biblical data on a topic to form a Study all of the biblical data on a topic to form a

complete picture of what the Bible tells us about that complete picture of what the Bible tells us about that topictopic

– Involves inductive approachInvolves inductive approachMoves from particular data to general conclusionMoves from particular data to general conclusion

– Systematic TheologySystematic Theology– Leads to doctrineLeads to doctrine


Doctrines of ChristianityDoctrines of Christianity

ScriptureScriptureGodGodChristChristHoly SpiritHoly SpiritTrinityTrinityCreationCreationManManSatanSatanAngelsAngelsSinSinSalvationSalvationLast ThingsLast Things


Doctrine of Inspiration Doctrine of Inspiration of Scriptureof Scripture

When we say that the Scriptures are inspired we When we say that the Scriptures are inspired we mean:mean:

God superintended the human authorsGod superintended the human authors– Verbal plenary inspirationVerbal plenary inspiration

Using their own personalitiesUsing their own personalitiesTo compose original writings without errorTo compose original writings without error

Note: God did not dictate but rather guided and Note: God did not dictate but rather guided and supervisedsupervised


Books Added to the BibleBooks Added to the BibleGod inspired the books of the BibleGod inspired the books of the Bible

God’s people discovered the books that were inspiredGod’s people discovered the books that were inspired

What was at issue?What was at issue?– Was the book written by an apostle or prophet of God?Was the book written by an apostle or prophet of God?

– Was the writer confirmed by acts of God?Was the writer confirmed by acts of God?

– Did the message tell the truth about God?Did the message tell the truth about God?

– Did the book have the power of God?Did the book have the power of God?

– Was it accepted by the people of GodWas it accepted by the people of God

Those failing these criteria became the “Lost Books of Those failing these criteria became the “Lost Books of the Bible”the Bible”– Really, they were not lost, but rather rejectedReally, they were not lost, but rather rejected


Doctrine of InspirationDoctrine of InspirationSummarySummary

Jesus said that the Old Testament is imperishableJesus said that the Old Testament is imperishableJesus promised that the Holy Spirit would guide Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would guide the apostles into all truththe apostles into all truth– Resulted in the New TestamentResulted in the New Testament

God superintended the completion of the BibleGod superintended the completion of the BibleBooks recognized to be inspired were placed in Books recognized to be inspired were placed in the Biblethe BibleImportant NoteImportant Note– The Bible does not approve everything it recordsThe Bible does not approve everything it records– We believe that the Bible is true in all it affirmsWe believe that the Bible is true in all it affirms


Mat 5:17-18 Mat 5:17-18 "Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or "Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill. For truly I the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill. For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished.”accomplished.”

Joh 10:35 Joh 10:35 "If he called them gods, to whom the word of God "If he called them gods, to whom the word of God came (and the Scripture cannot be broken) . . .”came (and the Scripture cannot be broken) . . .”

Joh 16:12-13 Joh 16:12-13 "I have many more things to say to you, but "I have many more things to say to you, but you cannot bear you cannot bear themthem now. But when He, the Spirit of truth, now. But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come.”speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come.”

Doctrine of Inspiration—Doctrine of Inspiration—Important VersesImportant Verses



2Ti 3:16-17 All Scripture is inspired by God and 2Ti 3:16-17 All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work. adequate, equipped for every good work.

Heb 1:1-2 God, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in Heb 1:1-2 God, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in His Son, whom He these last days has spoken to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the world. the world.

2Pe 1:20-21 But know this first of all, that no prophecy 2Pe 1:20-21 But know this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture is of Scripture is a mattera matter of one's own interpretation, for no of one's own interpretation, for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God. men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.


1Co 2:12-13 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but 1Co 2:12-13 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may know the things freely the Spirit who is from God, so that we may know the things freely given to us by God, which things we also speak, not in words taught given to us by God, which things we also speak, not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, combining by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, combining spiritual spiritual thoughtsthoughts with spiritual with spiritual words.words.

Gal 1:11-12 For I would have you know, brethren, that the gospel Gal 1:11-12 For I would have you know, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. For I neither which was preached by me is not according to man. For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but received it from man, nor was I taught it, but I received itI received it through a through a revelation of Jesus Christ. revelation of Jesus Christ.

Exo 34:27 Then the LORD said to Moses, "Write down these Exo 34:27 Then the LORD said to Moses, "Write down these words, for in accordance with these words I have made a covenant words, for in accordance with these words I have made a covenant with you and with Israel." with you and with Israel."



The Bible Compared to Other The Bible Compared to Other Inspired WorksInspired Works

Other books claim divine inspiration, such as Other books claim divine inspiration, such as the Koran, the Book of Mormon, and parts of the Koran, the Book of Mormon, and parts of the Veda. But none of these books contains the Veda. But none of these books contains predictive prophecy. As a result, fulfilled predictive prophecy. As a result, fulfilled prophecy is a strong indication of the unique, prophecy is a strong indication of the unique, divine authority of the Bible.divine authority of the Bible.

Theologians Geisler & Nix—Theologians Geisler & Nix—

General Introduction to the Bible, p. General Introduction to the Bible, p. 196196


The Doctrine of GodThe Doctrine of God

Virtually all Christian doctrines are based on the Virtually all Christian doctrines are based on the doctrine of Goddoctrine of God

We need to know the true God to recognize false We need to know the true God to recognize false godsgods

Our salvation depends on knowing GodOur salvation depends on knowing God

Proper understanding of God will aid in our Proper understanding of God will aid in our spiritual growthspiritual growth

God has moral and non-moral attributesGod has moral and non-moral attributes– Creation imbued with moral attributesCreation imbued with moral attributes– Corrupted after the fallCorrupted after the fall


Attributes of GodAttributes of GodSimplicity—God has no partsSimplicity—God has no partsUnity—there is only one GodUnity—there is only one GodEternity—God is not in time and spaceEternity—God is not in time and spaceImmutability—God does not changeImmutability—God does not changeOmnipresence—God is everywhereOmnipresence—God is everywhereSovereignty—God the supreme ruler of allSovereignty—God the supreme ruler of allOmniscience—God knows everythingOmniscience—God knows everythingOmnipotence—God is all powerfulOmnipotence—God is all powerfulJustice—God treats individuals with moral equityJustice—God treats individuals with moral equityTruth—God is what is real and trueTruth—God is what is real and trueLove—God is unlimited in goodnessLove—God is unlimited in goodnessFreedom—God id independent of His creaturesFreedom—God id independent of His creaturesHoliness—God is separate and pureHoliness—God is separate and pure


Attributes of GodAttributes of GodSimplicitySimplicity

Means that God is indivisible in His essenceMeans that God is indivisible in His essence– God is three persons but one essenceGod is three persons but one essence

ScriptureScripture– Joh 4:24 "God is spirit, and those who worship Joh 4:24 "God is spirit, and those who worship

Him must worship in spirit and truth." Him must worship in spirit and truth." Spirits do not have partsSpirits do not have parts

But: Gen 6:8 But Noah found favor in the eyes of the But: Gen 6:8 But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD. LORD.

The Bible does use anthropomorphic figures of The Bible does use anthropomorphic figures of speech speech


Attributes of GodAttributes of God

UnityUnity

Means that there is only one GodMeans that there is only one God– Deu 6:4 "Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our Deu 6:4 "Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our

God, the LORD is one! God, the LORD is one! – Isa 45:18 . . . "I am the LORD, and there is Isa 45:18 . . . "I am the LORD, and there is

none else. none else. There is only one GodThere is only one God



InfinityInfinity

Means that God is without termination or Means that God is without termination or finitudefinitude– 1Ki 8:27 "But will God indeed dwell on the 1Ki 8:27 "But will God indeed dwell on the

earth? Behold, heaven and the highest earth? Behold, heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain You, how much less heaven cannot contain You, how much less this house which I have built! this house which I have built!

– Psa 147:5 Great is our Lord and abundant in Psa 147:5 Great is our Lord and abundant in strength; His understanding is infinite. strength; His understanding is infinite.



EternityEternity

Means that God is free of succession of timeMeans that God is free of succession of time

God sees all past, present and future events God sees all past, present and future events in eternity with equal clarityin eternity with equal clarity– Psa 90:2 Before the mountains were born Or Psa 90:2 Before the mountains were born Or

You gave birth to the earth and the world, Even You gave birth to the earth and the world, Even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God. from everlasting to everlasting, You are God. (Psalm 90 is a prayer of Moses)(Psalm 90 is a prayer of Moses)


How Should We Think About GodHow Should We Think About God

Four DimensionsFour Dimensions– Time and spaceTime and space

Space is Length, Space is Length, Height and WidthHeight and Width

Dimensions of the Dimensions of the universe are createduniverse are created

God Existed before God Existed before His creationHis creation

God is in eternity outside of time and space; He interacts in His Creation, but He is not

part of the Creation. He is like an artist who paints a painting. The artist is not part of the painting but his skill is represented in it. God interacts in His creationSo who made God?– That which is not in time has no beginning and therefore needs no creator.

God in Eternity



ImmutabilityImmutability

Means God is unchanging and Means God is unchanging and unchangeableunchangeable– Jam 1:17Jam 1:17 Every good thing given and every Every good thing given and every

perfect gift is from above, coming down from perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow. variation or shifting shadow.

– Num 23:19Num 23:19 God is not a man who lies, or a God is not a man who lies, or a son of man who changes His mind. Does He son of man who changes His mind. Does He speak and not act, or promise and not fulfill? speak and not act, or promise and not fulfill?


Attributes of GodAttributes of GodOmnipresenceOmnipresence

Means God is everywhereMeans God is everywhere– Does not mean God is everythingDoes not mean God is everything– Psa 139:7 Where can I go to escape Your Spirit? Psa 139:7 Where can I go to escape Your Spirit?

Where can I flee from Your presence? If I go up to Where can I flee from Your presence? If I go up to heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, You heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, You are there. If I live at the eastern horizon are there. If I live at the eastern horizon oror settle at the settle at the western limits, even there Your hand will lead me; Your western limits, even there Your hand will lead me; Your right hand will hold on to me. If I say, "Surely the right hand will hold on to me. If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me, and the light around me will darkness will hide me, and the light around me will become night"– even the darkness is not dark to You. become night"– even the darkness is not dark to You. The night shines like the day; darkness and light are The night shines like the day; darkness and light are alike to You.alike to You.


Attributes of GodAttributes of GodSovereigntySovereignty

Means that God is the supreme rulerMeans that God is the supreme ruler– Eph 1:3-23 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has Eph 1:3-23 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has

blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavens, in Christ; for He chose us blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavens, in Christ; for He chose us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight. in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love. He predestined us to be adopted through Jesus Christ for Himself, In love. He predestined us to be adopted through Jesus Christ for Himself, according to His favor and will, to the praise of His glorious grace that He favored according to His favor and will, to the praise of His glorious grace that He favored us with in the Beloved. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the us with in the Beloved. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace that He forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace that He lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. He made known to us the lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure that He planned in Him for the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure that He planned in Him for the administration of the days of fulfillment--to bring everything together in the administration of the days of fulfillment--to bring everything together in the Messiah, both things in heaven and things on earth in Him. In Him we were also Messiah, both things in heaven and things on earth in Him. In Him we were also made His inheritance, predestined according to the purpose of the One who made His inheritance, predestined according to the purpose of the One who works out everything in agreement with the decision of His will, so that we who works out everything in agreement with the decision of His will, so that we who had already put our hope in the Messiah might bring praise to His glory. . . . and had already put our hope in the Messiah might bring praise to His glory. . . . and what is the immeasurable greatness of His power to us who believe, according to what is the immeasurable greatness of His power to us who believe, according to the working of His vast strength. He demonstrated the working of His vast strength. He demonstrated this powerthis power in the Messiah by in the Messiah by raising Him from the dead and seating Him at His right hand in the heavens— raising Him from the dead and seating Him at His right hand in the heavens— above every ruler and authority, power and dominion, and every title given, not above every ruler and authority, power and dominion, and every title given, not only in this age but also in the one to come. And only in this age but also in the one to come. And He put everything under His He put everything under His feetfeet and appointed Him as head over everything for the church . . . and appointed Him as head over everything for the church . . .


Attributes of GodAttributes of GodOmniscienceOmniscience

Means that God know all actual and possible Means that God know all actual and possible thingsthings– Isa 46:9-10 . . . I am God, and there is no other; Isa 46:9-10 . . . I am God, and there is no other; I amI am

God, and there is no one like Me, declaring the end God, and there is no one like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, And from ancient times things from the beginning, And from ancient times things which have not been done, Saying, 'My purpose will be which have not been done, Saying, 'My purpose will be established, And I will accomplish all My good pleasureestablished, And I will accomplish all My good pleasure

– Psa 147:4-5 He counts the number of the stars; He Psa 147:4-5 He counts the number of the stars; He gives names to all of them. Great is our Lord and gives names to all of them. Great is our Lord and abundant in strength; His understanding is infinite. abundant in strength; His understanding is infinite.



OmnipotenceOmnipotence

Means that God is all powerfulMeans that God is all powerful– Job 11:7 "Can you discover the depths of Job 11:7 "Can you discover the depths of

God? Can you discover the limits of the God? Can you discover the limits of the Almighty? Almighty?

– Job 37:23Job 37:23 The Almighty--we cannot reach The Almighty--we cannot reach Him--He is exalted in power! In His justice and Him--He is exalted in power! In His justice and righteousness, He will not oppress. righteousness, He will not oppress.



JusticeJusticeTreats all individual with moral equityTreats all individual with moral equity– Act 17:30 "Therefore, having overlooked the times of Act 17:30 "Therefore, having overlooked the times of

ignorance, God now commands all people ignorance, God now commands all people everywhere to repent, because He has set a day on everywhere to repent, because He has set a day on which He is going to judge the world in righteousness which He is going to judge the world in righteousness by the Man He has appointed. He has provided proof by the Man He has appointed. He has provided proof of this to everyone by raising Him from the dead.“of this to everyone by raising Him from the dead.“

– Isa 61:8Isa 61:8 For I the LORD love justice; I hate robbery For I the LORD love justice; I hate robbery and injustice; I will faithfully reward them and make an and injustice; I will faithfully reward them and make an

everlasting covenant with them. everlasting covenant with them.


The Doctrine of GodThe Doctrine of GodLoveLove

Means that He is unlimited in goodness, loving Means that He is unlimited in goodness, loving kindness and benevolence.kindness and benevolence.– Jer 31:3 the LORD appeared to him from far away. I Jer 31:3 the LORD appeared to him from far away. I

have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore, I have continued to extend faithful love to you. have continued to extend faithful love to you.

– Isa 63:9 . . . He redeemed them because of His love Isa 63:9 . . . He redeemed them because of His love and compassion; He lifted them up and carried them and compassion; He lifted them up and carried them all the days of the past. all the days of the past.

– 1Jo 4:8 The one who does not love does not know 1Jo 4:8 The one who does not love does not know God, because God is love. God, because God is love.



TruthTruthMeans that God is in agreement with all that He Means that God is in agreement with all that He is—He is the reality that all truth corresponds tois—He is the reality that all truth corresponds to– Heb 6:18 . . . it is impossible for God to lie, we who Heb 6:18 . . . it is impossible for God to lie, we who

have fled for refuge might have strong have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to seize the hope set before us. encouragement to seize the hope set before us.

– Joh 14:6 Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and Joh 14:6 Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.Me.



FreedomFreedom

Means God is independent from His Means God is independent from His creaturescreatures– Isa 40:13-14 Who has directed the Spirit of Isa 40:13-14 Who has directed the Spirit of

the LORD, or who gave Him His counsel? the LORD, or who gave Him His counsel? Who did He consult with? Who gave Him Who did He consult with? Who gave Him understanding and taught Him the paths of understanding and taught Him the paths of justice? Who taught Him knowledge and justice? Who taught Him knowledge and showed Him the way of understanding?showed Him the way of understanding?



HolinessHolinessMeans God is separate and pureMeans God is separate and pure– 1Jo 1:5 Now this is the message we have heard from 1Jo 1:5 Now this is the message we have heard from

Him and declare to you: God is light, and there is Him and declare to you: God is light, and there is absolutely no darkness in Him. absolutely no darkness in Him.

– Isa 5:16 But the LORD of Hosts is exalted by His Isa 5:16 But the LORD of Hosts is exalted by His justice, and the holy God is distinguished by justice, and the holy God is distinguished by righteousness. righteousness.

– Exo 15:11 LORD, who is like You among the gods? Exo 15:11 LORD, who is like You among the gods? Who is like You, glorious in holiness, revered with Who is like You, glorious in holiness, revered with praises, performing wonders? praises, performing wonders?


The Doctrine of ChristThe Doctrine of ChristHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe existed with God in eternity before creation

He was born in the fleshHe was born in the flesh

He was fully humanHe was fully human

He was fully GodHe was fully God

He led a sinless lifeHe led a sinless life

He voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes He voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His earthly ministryin His earthly ministry

He paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe paid the penalty of Sin with His death

He rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He rose from the dead in in a resurrection body

He ascended into heavenHe ascended into heaven

He will returnHe will return


The Doctrine of ChristThe Doctrine of ChristHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe existed with God in eternity before creation– Col 1:15-7 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all Col 1:15-7 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all

creation. For by Him all things were created, creation. For by Him all things were created, bothboth in the heavens and in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities--all things have been created through Him and for Him. or authorities--all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.

He was born in the fleshHe was born in the fleshHe was fully humanHe was fully humanHe was fully GodHe was fully GodHe led a sinless lifeHe led a sinless lifeHe voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His earthly He voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His earthly ministryministryHe paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He ascended into heavenHe ascended into heavenHe will returnHe will return


The Doctrine of ChristThe Doctrine of ChristHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe was born in the fleshHe was born in the flesh– Mat 1:16 Jacob was the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, Mat 1:16 Jacob was the father of Joseph the husband of Mary,

by whom Jesus was born, who is called the Messiah. by whom Jesus was born, who is called the Messiah.

He was fully humanHe was fully humanHe was fully GodHe was fully GodHe led a sinless lifeHe led a sinless lifeHe voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His He voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His earthly ministryearthly ministryHe paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He ascended into heavenHe ascended into heavenHe will returnHe will return


The Doctrine of ChristThe Doctrine of ChristHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe was born in the fleshHe was born in the fleshHe was fully humanHe was fully human– Mat 4:2 And after He had fasted forty days and forty nights, He Mat 4:2 And after He had fasted forty days and forty nights, He

then became hungry. then became hungry. – Joh 4:6 and Jacob's well was there. So Jesus, being wearied Joh 4:6 and Jacob's well was there. So Jesus, being wearied

from His journey, was sitting thus by the well. It was about the from His journey, was sitting thus by the well. It was about the sixth hour. sixth hour.

– Joh 11:35Joh 11:35 Jesus wept. Jesus wept.

He was fully GodHe was fully GodHe led a sinless lifeHe led a sinless lifeHe voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His He voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His earthly ministryearthly ministryHe paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He ascended into heavenHe ascended into heavenHe will returnHe will return


The Doctrine of ChristThe Doctrine of ChristHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe was born in the fleshHe was born in the fleshHe was fully humanHe was fully humanHe was fully GodHe was fully God– Mat 18:20 "For where two or three have gathered together in Mat 18:20 "For where two or three have gathered together in

My name, I am there in their midst." My name, I am there in their midst." – Joh 10:30 "I and the Father are one.“Joh 10:30 "I and the Father are one.“– Joh 15:26 "When the Helper comes, whom I will send to you Joh 15:26 "When the Helper comes, whom I will send to you

from the Father, from the Father, that isthat is the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify about Me, Father, He will testify about Me,

He led a sinless lifeHe led a sinless lifeHe voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His He voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His earthly ministryearthly ministryHe paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He ascended into heavenHe ascended into heavenHe will returnHe will return


The Doctrine of ChristThe Doctrine of ChristHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe was born in the fleshHe was born in the fleshHe was fully humanHe was fully humanHe was fully GodHe was fully GodHe led a sinless life (He was unable to sin)He led a sinless life (He was unable to sin)– 1Pe 2:21-22 For you have been called for this purpose, since 1Pe 2:21-22 For you have been called for this purpose, since

Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps, follow in His steps, WHO COMMITTED NO SIN, NOR WAS ANY WHO COMMITTED NO SIN, NOR WAS ANY DECEIT FOUND IN HIS MOUTH;DECEIT FOUND IN HIS MOUTH;

He voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His He voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His earthly ministryearthly ministryHe paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He ascended into heavenHe ascended into heavenHe will returnHe will return


The Doctrine of ChristThe Doctrine of ChristHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe was born in the fleshHe was born in the fleshHe was fully humanHe was fully humanHe was fully GodHe was fully GodHe led a sinless lifeHe led a sinless lifeHe voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His earthly He voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His earthly ministry (kenosis)ministry (kenosis)– Phi 2:5-8 Make your own attitude that of Christ Jesus, who, existing in Phi 2:5-8 Make your own attitude that of Christ Jesus, who, existing in

the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be used for His own advantage. Instead He emptied Himself by assuming used for His own advantage. Instead He emptied Himself by assuming the form of a slave, taking on the likeness of men. And when He had the form of a slave, taking on the likeness of men. And when He had come as a man in His external form, He humbled Himself by becoming come as a man in His external form, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death--even to death on a cross.obedient to the point of death--even to death on a cross.

He paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He ascended into heavenHe ascended into heavenHe will returnHe will return


The Doctrine of ChristThe Doctrine of ChristHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe was born in the fleshHe was born in the fleshHe was fully humanHe was fully humanHe was fully GodHe was fully GodHe led a sinless lifeHe led a sinless lifeHe voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His earthly ministryHe voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His earthly ministryHe paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe paid the penalty of Sin with His death– 2Co 5:21 He made Him who knew no sin 2Co 5:21 He made Him who knew no sin to beto be sin on our behalf, so that sin on our behalf, so that

we might become the righteousness of God in Him. we might become the righteousness of God in Him. – 1Jo 2:1-21Jo 2:1-2 My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you

may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; Jesus Christ the righteous; and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for and not for ours only, but also for those ofthose of the whole world. the whole world.

– Mat 20:28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, Mat 20:28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many." and to give His life a ransom for many."

He rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He ascended into heavenHe ascended into heavenHe will returnHe will return


The Doctrine of ChristThe Doctrine of ChristHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe was born in the fleshHe was born in the fleshHe was fully humanHe was fully humanHe was fully GodHe was fully GodHe led a sinless lifeHe led a sinless lifeHe voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His earthly ministryHe voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His earthly ministryHe paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He rose from the dead in in a resurrection body – 1Co 15:3-8 . . . and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the 1Co 15:3-8 . . . and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the

third day according to the Scriptures, and that He appeared to Cephas, third day according to the Scriptures, and that He appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. After that He appeared to more than five hundred then to the twelve. After that He appeared to more than five hundred brethren at one time, most of whom remain until now, but some have fallen brethren at one time, most of whom remain until now, but some have fallen asleep; then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles; and last of all, asleep; then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles; and last of all, as to one untimely born, He appeared to me also. as to one untimely born, He appeared to me also.

– Joh 20:27 Then He *said to Thomas, "Reach here with your finger, and Joh 20:27 Then He *said to Thomas, "Reach here with your finger, and see My hands; and reach here your hand and put it into My side; and do see My hands; and reach here your hand and put it into My side; and do not be unbelieving, but believing." not be unbelieving, but believing."

– Luk 24:42 They gave Him a piece of a broiled fish; and He took it and ate Luk 24:42 They gave Him a piece of a broiled fish; and He took it and ate itit before them.before them.

He ascended into heavenHe ascended into heavenHe will returnHe will return


The Doctrine of ChristThe Doctrine of ChristHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe was born in the fleshHe was born in the fleshHe was fully humanHe was fully humanHe was fully GodHe was fully GodHe led a sinless lifeHe led a sinless lifeHe voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His earthly He voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His earthly ministryministryHe paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He ascended into heavenHe ascended into heaven– Act 1:9-11 And after He had said these things, He was lifted up while Act 1:9-11 And after He had said these things, He was lifted up while

they were looking on, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And they were looking on, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And as they were gazing intently into the sky while He was going, behold, as they were gazing intently into the sky while He was going, behold, two men in white clothing stood beside them. They also said, "Men of two men in white clothing stood beside them. They also said, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven."you have watched Him go into heaven."

He will returnHe will return


The Doctrine of ChristThe Doctrine of ChristHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe existed with God in eternity before creationHe was born in the fleshHe was born in the fleshHe was fully humanHe was fully humanHe was fully GodHe was fully GodHe led a sinless lifeHe led a sinless lifeHe voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His earthly ministryHe voluntarily set aside certain divine attributes in His earthly ministryHe paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe paid the penalty of Sin with His deathHe rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He rose from the dead in in a resurrection body He ascended into heavenHe ascended into heavenHe will returnHe will return– Mat 24:30 "And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, Mat 24:30 "And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky,

and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the SON SON OF MAN COMING ON THE CLOUDS OF THE SKYOF MAN COMING ON THE CLOUDS OF THE SKY with power and great with power and great glory. glory.

– Zec 14:3-4 Then the LORD will go forth and fight against those nations, Zec 14:3-4 Then the LORD will go forth and fight against those nations, as when He fights on a day of battle. In that day His feet will stand on the as when He fights on a day of battle. In that day His feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, which is in front of Jerusalem on the east; and the Mount of Olives, which is in front of Jerusalem on the east; and the Mount of Olives will be split in its middle from east to west by a very large Mount of Olives will be split in its middle from east to west by a very large valley, so that half of the mountain will move toward the north and the valley, so that half of the mountain will move toward the north and the other half toward the south.other half toward the south.


The Doctrine of ChristThe Doctrine of Christ

The Universe was created through HimThe Universe was created through Him– Joh 1:1-3Joh 1:1-3 In the beginning was the Word, and the In the beginning was the Word, and the

Word was with God, and the Word was God. He Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him into being through Him, and apart from Him

nothing came into being that has come into being.nothing came into being that has come into being. – Col 1:15-16 He is the image of the invisible God, the Col 1:15-16 He is the image of the invisible God, the

firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created, created, bothboth in the heavens and on earth, visible and in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities--all things have been created through Him authorities--all things have been created through Him

and for Him.and for Him.


The Divinity of Christ in the Words of the Early Church FathersChurch Father

Date Views Expressed

Clement of Rome

c. 96 A.D. “Let us reverence Lord Jesus Christ, whose blood was given for us”

Ignatius c. 105 A.D. “Continue in intimate union with Jesus Christ our God.”

Aristides c. 125 A.D. “The Christians trace the beginning of their religion to Jesus the Messiah. He is called the Son of the Most High God. It is said that God came down from heaven. He assumed flesh and clothed Himself with it from a Hebrew virgin. And the Son of God lived in the daughter of man.”

Justin Martyr c. 160 “The Father of the universe has a son. And He, being the First Begotten Word of God, is even God.”

Athenogoras c. 175 “There is one God and the Logos proceeding from Him, the Son. We understand the Son to be inseparable from Him.”

Irenaeus c. 180 A.D. “He is God, for the name Emmanuel indicates this.”

Clement of Alexandria

c. 195 A.D. “Our Instructor is the holy God Jesus, the Word.”

Tertullian c. 197 A.D. “To all He is equal, to all King, to all Judge, to all God and Lord.”

Origen c. 225 A.D. “Jesus Christ Himself is the Lord and Creator of the soul.”

Seventh Council of Carthage

c. 256 A.D. “Jesus Christ, our Lord and God, is the Son of God the Father and Creator.”


The Doctrine of the Holy SpiritThe Doctrine of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is GodThe Holy Spirit is God– Act 5:3-4 But Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filled your Act 5:3-4 But Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filled your

heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back somesome of the price of the price of the land? . . . You have not lied to men but to God." of the land? . . . You have not lied to men but to God."

– 1Co 3:16 Do you not know that you are a temple of God and 1Co 3:16 Do you not know that you are a temple of God and thatthat the Spirit of God dwells in you? the Spirit of God dwells in you?

The Holy Spirit is a PersonThe Holy Spirit is a Person

The Holy Spirit Proceeds from the FatherThe Holy Spirit Proceeds from the Father

The Holy Spirit proceeds for the SonThe Holy Spirit proceeds for the Son

The Holy Spirit was Active in creationThe Holy Spirit was Active in creation

The Holy Spirit is active in redemptionThe Holy Spirit is active in redemption



The Holy Spirit is GodThe Holy Spirit is God

The Holy Spirit is a PersonThe Holy Spirit is a Person– Joh 14:26 "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will Joh 14:26 "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will

send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you. remembrance all that I said to you.

– Eph 4:30 Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you Eph 4:30 Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. were sealed for the day of redemption.









The Holy Spirit Proceeds from the FatherThe Holy Spirit Proceeds from the Father– Joh 14:16-17 "I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, Joh 14:16-17 "I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper,

that He may be with you forever; that He may be with you forever; that isthat is the Spirit of truth, whom the the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, butbut you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you.you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you.

The Holy Spirit proceeds for the SonThe Holy Spirit proceeds for the Son– Joh 16:7-8 "But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go Joh 16:7-8 "But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go

away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I go, away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you. "And He, when He comes, will convict the world I will send Him to you. "And He, when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment;concerning sin and righteousness and judgment;









The Holy Spirit was Active in creationThe Holy Spirit was Active in creation– Gen 1:1Gen 1:1-2 In the beginning God created the heavens and the -2 In the beginning God created the heavens and the

earth. The earth was formless and void, and darkness was earth. The earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was

moving over the surface of the waters.moving over the surface of the waters.









The Holy Spirit is active in redemptionThe Holy Spirit is active in redemption– Joh 16:7-8 "But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go Joh 16:7-8 "But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go

away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I go, away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you. "And He, when He comes, will convict the world I will send Him to you. "And He, when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment;concerning sin and righteousness and judgment;

– Eph 4:30 Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were Eph 4:30 Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. sealed for the day of redemption.

– 1Co 12:11 But one and the same Spirit works all these things, 1Co 12:11 But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually just as He wills. distributing to each one individually just as He wills.


The Doctrine of the TrinityThe Doctrine of the Trinity

From the above regarding the Father, Son From the above regarding the Father, Son and Holy Spirit:and Holy Spirit:

There is only one GodThere is only one God

There are three persons who are GodThere are three persons who are God– All three possess and do acts of DeityAll three possess and do acts of Deity– All three possess personhoodAll three possess personhood

Mind, will, emotionMind, will, emotion

– All three are referred to using personal All three are referred to using personal pronounspronouns


Verses which allude to TrinityVerses which allude to TrinityIsa 63:7-10 I shall make mention of the lovingkindnesses of the LORD, the praises of the LORD, According to all that the LORD has granted us, And the great goodness toward the house of Israel, . . . So He became their Savior. In all their affliction He was afflicted, And the angel of His presence saved them; In His love and in His mercy He redeemed them, And He lifted them and carried them all the days of old. But they rebelled And grieved His Holy Spirit; Therefore He turned Himself to become their enemy, He fought against them.

Psa 2:7-8 "I will surely tell of the decree of the LORD: He said to Me, 'You are My Son, Today I have begotten You. 'Ask of Me, and I will surely give the nations as Your inheritance, And the very ends of the earth as Your possession.



Verses which allude to TrinityVerses which allude to Trinity

Mat 3:16-7 After being baptized, Jesus came up immediately from Mat 3:16-7 After being baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he saw the the water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove Spirit of God descending as a dove andand lighting on Him, and behold, lighting on Him, and behold, a voice out of the heavens said, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I a voice out of the heavens said, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased." am well-pleased."

Mat 28:18-20 And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, "All Mat 28:18-20 And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. "Go authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." even to the end of the age."



Functions within the TrinityFunctions within the Trinity

Father:Father: source and planner of salvationsource and planner of salvation

Son:Son: achiever or means of salvationachiever or means of salvation

Spirit:Spirit: effecter of salvation (he convicts and converts)effecter of salvation (he convicts and converts)

God only has one essence or natureGod only has one essence or nature– Father, Son & Spirit are in lock-stepFather, Son & Spirit are in lock-step

God is three persons coexisting in eternity, of the same God is three persons coexisting in eternity, of the same essenceessence

This is a mystery but there is no contradiction This is a mystery but there is no contradiction



Illustrations of the TrinityIllustrations of the Trinity

TriangleTriangle– One figure, three sidesOne figure, three sides

1133 = 1 x 1 x 1 = 1 = 1 x 1 x 1 = 1



The Doctrine of AngelsThe Doctrine of Angels

Created beingsCreated beings Ps 148:2-5Ps 148:2-5– Aeviternal (not in time) Aeviternal (not in time)

MessengersMessengers Luke 1:26Luke 1:26Created before earth Created before earth Job 38:6-7 Job 38:6-7 Spirit beingsSpirit beings Heb. 1:14Heb. 1:14They are genderless They are genderless Matt 22:30 Matt 22:30 They never die Luke They never die Luke 20:35-3620:35-36They have free will They have free will Jude 6Jude 6They have great intelligenceThey have great intelligence Matt 24:31Matt 24:31They are persons They are persons Luke 15:10Luke 15:10– will, intellect, emotionwill, intellect, emotion

They are beautifulThey are beautiful Isa. 6:1-2Isa. 6:1-2They cannot be redeemedThey cannot be redeemed 2Pe. 2:42Pe. 2:4

Jude 6Jude 6


Purpose of AngelsPurpose of Angels– To glorify GodTo glorify God Ps. 148:2Ps. 148:2

– To serve GodTo serve God Job 1:6; 2:1Job 1:6; 2:1– Minister to God’s electMinister to God’s elect Heb. 1:14; Matt. 18:10Heb. 1:14; Matt. 18:10

Their number is vastTheir number is vast Rev. 5:11Rev. 5:11

They are not omniscient since they are created beingsThey are not omniscient since they are created beings

PositionsPositions– ArchangelArchangel

– Chief PrincesChief Princes

– CherubimCherubim– Living CreaturesLiving Creatures– SeraphimSeraphim

– Angel (referenced over 270 times in Bible)Angel (referenced over 270 times in Bible)

The Doctrine of AngelsThe Doctrine of Angels


The Doctrine of SatanThe Doctrine of Satan

Fallen Angel Fallen Angel Isa. 14:12-20Isa. 14:12-20

Names: Names: – Devil (slanderer), Lucifer, Beelzebub, serpent, dragonDevil (slanderer), Lucifer, Beelzebub, serpent, dragon

Masquerades as an angel of light (2Cor. 11:14)Masquerades as an angel of light (2Cor. 11:14)

Titles:Titles:– Prince of this world, God of this age, prince of demonsPrince of this world, God of this age, prince of demons

TraitsTraits– Murderer, liar, sinner, accuser, adversaryMurderer, liar, sinner, accuser, adversary

JudgmentJudgment– Cast out of heaven (Ezek. 28:16, Jude 6, 2Pet. 2:4)Cast out of heaven (Ezek. 28:16, Jude 6, 2Pet. 2:4)– Defeated at the cross (John 12:31)Defeated at the cross (John 12:31)– Will spend eternity in Lake of Fire (Rev. 20:10)Will spend eternity in Lake of Fire (Rev. 20:10)


The Doctrine of MankindThe Doctrine of MankindCreated by GodCreated by God– Gen 2:7 Then the LORD God formed man of dust from the ground, and Gen 2:7 Then the LORD God formed man of dust from the ground, and

breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being. being.

– Gen 2:21-22 So the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the Gen 2:21-22 So the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon the man, and he slept; then He took one of his ribs and closed up the flesh man, and he slept; then He took one of his ribs and closed up the flesh at that place. The LORD God fashioned into a woman the rib which He at that place. The LORD God fashioned into a woman the rib which He had taken from the man, and brought her to the man.had taken from the man, and brought her to the man.

Created goodCreated good– Gen 1:31 God saw all that He had made, and behold, it was very good. Gen 1:31 God saw all that He had made, and behold, it was very good.

And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day. Created in the image of GodCreated in the image of God– Gen 1:27 God created man in His own image, in the image of God He Gen 1:27 God created man in His own image, in the image of God He

created him; male and female He created them. created him; male and female He created them. – Means that humanity in the moral and natural likeness of GodMeans that humanity in the moral and natural likeness of God

Mankind share in God’s communicable qualitiesMankind share in God’s communicable qualitiesMoral likeness destroyed at the fallMoral likeness destroyed at the fall


The Doctrine of SinThe Doctrine of Sin

God cannot sin or approve evilGod cannot sin or approve evil– 1Jo 1:5 This is the message we have heard from Him and 1Jo 1:5 This is the message we have heard from Him and

announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all. darkness at all.

– Hab. 1:13 Hab. 1:13 YourYour eyes are too pure to approve evil, And You can eyes are too pure to approve evil, And You can not look on wickedness not look on wickedness with favorwith favor . . . . . .

Sin is activity that is contrary to character of GodSin is activity that is contrary to character of God– God is the way He is not by choice but by natureGod is the way He is not by choice but by nature– What is good is consistent with His natureWhat is good is consistent with His nature

Personal sin involves disobediencePersonal sin involves disobedience– Results in loss of fellowship with GodResults in loss of fellowship with God



Sin Nature in HumanitySin Nature in Humanity– Inclination to do other than what God would have us doInclination to do other than what God would have us do

Result of misuse of the free will given to mankind by GodResult of misuse of the free will given to mankind by GodResult: physical death and spiritual deathResult: physical death and spiritual death– Gen 3:16-19 To the woman He said, "I will greatly multiply Your Gen 3:16-19 To the woman He said, "I will greatly multiply Your

pain in childbirth, In pain you will bring forth children; Yet your desire pain in childbirth, In pain you will bring forth children; Yet your desire will be for your husband, And he will rule over you." Then to Adam will be for your husband, And he will rule over you." Then to Adam He said, "Because you have listened to the voice of your wife, and He said, "Because you have listened to the voice of your wife, and have eaten from the tree about which I commanded you, saying, have eaten from the tree about which I commanded you, saying, 'You shall not eat from it'; Cursed is the ground because of you; In 'You shall not eat from it'; Cursed is the ground because of you; In toil you will eat of it All the days of your life. "Both thorns and thistles toil you will eat of it All the days of your life. "Both thorns and thistles it shall grow for you; And you will eat the plants of the field; By the it shall grow for you; And you will eat the plants of the field; By the sweat of your face You will eat bread, Till you return to the ground, sweat of your face You will eat bread, Till you return to the ground, Because from it you were taken; For you are dust, And to dust you Because from it you were taken; For you are dust, And to dust you shall return." shall return."

– Rom 5:12 Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into the Rom 5:12 Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men, world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men, because all sinnedbecause all sinned



Eph 2:1-5 And you were dead in your trespasses and Eph 2:1-5 And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. Among them we too all formerly lived in disobedience. Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. But God, being rich in mercy, because even as the rest. But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), with Christ (by grace you have been saved),


1John 1:5-10 This is the message we have heard from Him 1John 1:5-10 This is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no and announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him and darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yetyet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth; walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth; but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar and His word is not in us. not sinned, we make Him a liar and His word is not in us.

The Doctrine of SinThe Doctrine of SinThe bottom line . . .The bottom line . . .


The Doctrine of SalvationThe Doctrine of Salvation

God loves usGod loves us– 1Jo 4:9-10 By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has 1Jo 4:9-10 By this the love of God was manifested in us, that God has

sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent Him. In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son His Son to beto be the propitiation for our sins. the propitiation for our sins.

Jesus paid the price for our sinsJesus paid the price for our sins– Mat 20:28 . . . the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, Mat 20:28 . . . the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve,

and to give His life a ransom for many." and to give His life a ransom for many."

We are reconciled to God through ChristWe are reconciled to God through Christ– 2Co 5:18-19 Now everything is from God, who reconciled us to Himself 2Co 5:18-19 Now everything is from God, who reconciled us to Himself

through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that is, in through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that is, in Christ, God was reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their Christ, God was reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has committed the message of trespasses against them, and He has committed the message of reconciliation to us.reconciliation to us.


Jesus is the only wayJesus is the only way– Joh 14:6 Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. Joh 14:6 Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life.

No one comes to the Father except through Me.No one comes to the Father except through Me.– Joh 3:16-18 "For God loved the world in this way: He gave His Joh 3:16-18 "For God loved the world in this way: He gave His

One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world that He might judge the world, but that the world might the world that He might judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. Anyone who believes in Him is not be saved through Him. Anyone who believes in Him is not judged, but anyone who does not believe is already judged, judged, but anyone who does not believe is already judged, because he has not believed in the name of the One and Only because he has not believed in the name of the One and Only Son of God.Son of God.

The Doctrine of SalvationThe Doctrine of Salvation


Doctrine of SalvationDoctrine of Salvation

Salvation in all ages comes through faith:Salvation in all ages comes through faith:– Gal 3:6-9 Even so Abraham BELIEVED GOD, AND IT WAS Gal 3:6-9 Even so Abraham BELIEVED GOD, AND IT WAS

RECKONED TO HIM AS RIGHTEOUSNESS. Therefore, be RECKONED TO HIM AS RIGHTEOUSNESS. Therefore, be sure that it is those who are of faith who are sons of Abraham. sure that it is those who are of faith who are sons of Abraham. The Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by The Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying,saying, "ALL "ALL THE NATIONS WILL BE BLESSED IN YOU." So then those THE NATIONS WILL BE BLESSED IN YOU." So then those who are of faith are blessed with Abraham, the believer. who are of faith are blessed with Abraham, the believer.

We should not expect to spend eternity with God if we We should not expect to spend eternity with God if we never believed in Himnever believed in Him– Would you let a hostile stranger into your house?Would you let a hostile stranger into your house?


The Doctrine of the ChurchThe Doctrine of the Church

Christ is the Head of the ChurchChrist is the Head of the Church– Col 1:18 He is also head of the body, the church; and He is the Col 1:18 He is also head of the body, the church; and He is the

beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything. come to have first place in everything.

The Church is the Bride of ChristThe Church is the Bride of Christ– Rev 19:7-9 "Let us rejoice and be glad and give the glory to Rev 19:7-9 "Let us rejoice and be glad and give the glory to

Him, for the marriage of the Lamb has come and His bride has Him, for the marriage of the Lamb has come and His bride has made herself ready." It was given to her to clothe herself in fine made herself ready." It was given to her to clothe herself in fine linen, bright linen, bright andand clean; for the fine linen is the righteous acts of clean; for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints. Then he *said to me, "Write, 'Blessed are those who the saints. Then he *said to me, "Write, 'Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.'" And he *said to are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.'" And he *said to

me, "These are true words of God."me, "These are true words of God."


The Doctrine of Last ThingsThe Doctrine of Last ThingsMat 24:24-39 "For false Christs and false prophets will arise and will show Mat 24:24-39 "For false Christs and false prophets will arise and will show great signs and wonders, so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect. great signs and wonders, so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect. "Behold, I have told you in advance. "So if they say to you, 'Behold, He is in "Behold, I have told you in advance. "So if they say to you, 'Behold, He is in the wilderness,' do not go out, the wilderness,' do not go out, or,or, 'Behold, He is in the inner rooms,' do not 'Behold, He is in the inner rooms,' do not believe believe them.them. "For just as the lightning comes from the east and flashes "For just as the lightning comes from the east and flashes even to the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be. "Wherever the even to the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be. "Wherever the corpse is, there the vultures will gather. "But immediately after the corpse is, there the vultures will gather. "But immediately after the tribulation of those days THE SUN WILL BE DARKENED, AND THE MOON tribulation of those days THE SUN WILL BE DARKENED, AND THE MOON WILL NOT GIVE ITS LIGHT, AND THE STARS WILL FALL from the sky, and the WILL NOT GIVE ITS LIGHT, AND THE STARS WILL FALL from the sky, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. "And then the sign of the Son of Man powers of the heavens will be shaken. "And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the SON OF MAN COMING ON THE CLOUDS OF THE SKY with they will see the SON OF MAN COMING ON THE CLOUDS OF THE SKY with power and great glory. "And He will send forth His angels with A GREAT power and great glory. "And He will send forth His angels with A GREAT TRUMPET and THEY WILL GATHER TOGETHER His elect from the four winds, TRUMPET and THEY WILL GATHER TOGETHER His elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other. . . . "Truly I say to you, this from one end of the sky to the other. . . . "Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. "Heaven generation will not pass away until all these things take place. "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away. "But of that day and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away. "But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone. "For the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the the Father alone. "For the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah. "For as in those days before the flood they were eating and days of Noah. "For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and they did not understand until the flood came and took them all the ark, and they did not understand until the flood came and took them all away; so will the coming of the Son of Man be. away; so will the coming of the Son of Man be.

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