| Sunny Side Up April 28, 2004 �2004, Kathleen Gibson This column is a continuation of last weeks'....April 21 What is Biblical Christianity....Part II It's a key question. Exactly what is Biblical Christianity? Scripture, out of context, has been used to promote everything from female inferiority to genocide. Confusing what the Bible reports with what the Bible supports is another common error. That's why it's so vital to understand the basics of Christian faith. To hold one's beliefs to the plumbline of theological ideas commonly accepted by the majority of Christian theologians through the ages. You may be familiar with the Creeds. Written in the early days of the Christian Church they provide a solid framework for the structure of belief. Here is one: The Apostles' Creed I believe in God, the Father Almighty, the Creator of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord: Who was conceived of the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day He arose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty, from whence He shall come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic (universal) church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen Those statements sum up the central elements of Christianity common to Catholicism, Orthodoxy, and Protestantism. There's more: Biblical Christianity teaches that the Bible, though translated by fallible men, is the eternal and authoritative Word of God. That God still speaks through those old words that tell of his great love and inerrant justice, of eternal reward and eternal damnation; of a personal devil with a heinous plan for all creation. "I believe I can be a Christian," a friend told me the other day, "and still believe that all religions lead to God." He's not alone. Many choke on Jesus' words, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except by me." They seem so�.well, narrow. Yet the trademark of Biblical Christianity is its exclusivity, however politically incorrect in today's pluralistic culture. The narrow parameter of Jesus' words define it. Though unpalatable to many, one cannot claim to be a true follower of Jesus Christ and deny that basic tenant of the faith. Biblical Christianity insists that mankind's one and only 'ticket to glory' was issued on the cross, and that Christ's sacrifice made a bridge between our unholiness and his holiness. Most importantly, Biblical Christianity teaches that our holy and loving God, the only perfect Father, desires relationship with us. That relationship changes the hearts and lives and destinies of those who embrace it. And as Christ's followers daily work out what it means both to love God and their neighbour as themselves, it has the power to strengthen the fabric of society. Ignoring that relationship does the opposite. I've seen it. I've experienced it. It's why I defend Biblical faith so ardently. You can respond to this column at [email protected] |
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