Foundations of Faith (2 John 1:9-11)

Today's scripture: 2 John 1:9-11

Seemingly countless denominations and sects abound in our world, each claiming to be “Christian.” It’s sometimes difficult to determine who’s following truth. In my opinion, it comes down to a few not-to-be-compromised pieces of doctrine. The following is from my statement of faith:

• I believe in the triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. One God manifested in three.

• I believe that God the Father created heavens and earth and all that’s in them; that God the Son—Jesus—died on the cross to pay the penalty for my sin and rose three days later; and that God the Holy Spirit dwells within each one who accepts the free gift of salvation and eternal life.

• I believe that salvation comes only through the belief in and acceptance of Jesus’ death and resurrection.

• I believe the Bible is God’s word given to us through the pens of men. It is inerrant in its original text and is God’s truth.

• I believe that those who choose to follow Jesus will spend eternity with Him in heaven, and those who do not will spend eternal life separated from Him in hell.

Other things—how we baptize or take the Lord's Supper, or what kinds of worship songs we sing—aren’t critical to faith. But if someone claims to be a Christian and doesn’t adhere to a few pieces of foundational doctrine … well, only God knows the heart.