What does the apostolic faith believe? This question delves into the core principles and teachings that have been passed down through the apostles of Jesus Christ. The apostolic faith, rooted in the New Testament, encompasses a set of beliefs that are central to Christian theology. This article aims to explore the fundamental tenets of the apostolic faith, highlighting its significance in shaping Christian doctrine and practice.
The apostolic faith holds that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the Messiah prophesied in the Old Testament. It emphasizes the importance of His birth, life, death, and resurrection as the cornerstone of salvation. This belief in the divinity of Jesus Christ is a cornerstone of apostolic faith, as it underpins the entire Christian faith.
One of the key beliefs of the apostolic faith is the Trinity. The Trinity consists of three persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. These three persons are co-eternal, co-equal, and co-substantial, forming one God. The apostolic faith teaches that the Trinity is the ultimate source of divine authority and the foundation of Christian doctrine.
Another fundamental belief is the authority of the Bible, particularly the New Testament. The apostolic faith holds that the Bible is the inspired Word of God, providing guidance and instruction for believers. It is considered the ultimate authority in matters of faith and practice, and its teachings are central to the apostolic faith.
Salvation is a crucial aspect of the apostolic faith. It is believed that salvation is a gift from God, obtained through faith in Jesus Christ. The apostolic faith teaches that Jesus’ death and resurrection provide the means for the forgiveness of sins and eternal life. Repentance, faith, and baptism are seen as essential steps in the process of salvation.
The apostolic faith also emphasizes the importance of the church as the body of Christ. The church is viewed as the community of believers who gather to worship, study the Bible, and serve others. The apostolic faith encourages believers to live a life of holiness, love, and service, reflecting the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Additionally, the apostolic faith places a strong emphasis on the Holy Spirit’s role in the lives of believers. The Holy Spirit is believed to indwell each Christian, empowering them to live a life of faith and witness. The apostolic faith encourages believers to seek the filling of the Holy Spirit, which leads to spiritual growth and the manifestation of spiritual gifts.
The apostolic faith also acknowledges the presence of evil in the world and the need for spiritual warfare. Believers are encouraged to stand firm in their faith, resist temptation, and seek God’s guidance in overcoming evil.
In conclusion, the apostolic faith is a comprehensive system of beliefs that centers on the divinity of Jesus Christ, the Trinity, the authority of the Bible, salvation through faith in Jesus, the importance of the church, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the need for spiritual warfare. These beliefs have shaped the Christian faith and continue to guide the lives of millions of believers around the world. Understanding what the apostolic faith believes is essential for anyone seeking to delve into the rich tapestry of Christian theology and practice.
