The Big Ten

This past Sunday at Geist Community Church I revisited a sermon series for the second time in under three years.  (The series is available here) Why would I review the same sermon series twice?  It's THAT important!  We live in a world that is attempting to redefine and/or eliminate truth.  Everything from the definition of "marriage" to defining when "life" begins seems to be up for grabs.  Yet, as we again begin a new year it is vital that we be reminded that truth never changes.

The great D. L. Moody once said "the best way to show that a stick is crooked is not to argue about it or spend time denouncing it, but to lay a straight stick alongside it."

The Bible is our "straight stick."  Every decision, every thought, every action, every word must be held alongside the unchangeable, perfect, infallible Word of God.  With that in mind, there are 10 unchangeable truths (the "Big Ten") that you MUST believe if you're going to call yourself a Christian.  These truths are non-negotiable, life-changing truths.  Remember them, uphold them, proclaim them, take a stand for them.

Truth #1: The Bible - is God's Word, inspired by God, without error in the original writings and the final authority for faith and life

Truth #2: The Trinity - There is one true God who eternally exists as three divine persons; Father, Son and Holy Spirit, each of whom is equally and fully true God.

Truth #3: The Nature of God - God alone is Creator, all-knowing, all-powerful, and ever-present.

Truth #4: Humans - uniquely created in the image of God

Truth #5: Sin - because of Adam's sin every person is born spiritually dead

Truth #6: Salvation - is only by grace through faith in Jesus Christ

Truth #7: Jesus - is fully God and fully man

Truth #8: The Holy Spirit - permanently indwells every believer and provides unity, power and gifts to God's people

Truth #9: The Church - is the new covenant community of the Spirit with specific God-given responsibilities

Truth #10: Hope - Jesus will physically return to earth as King

(you can listen to the original Big Ten sermon series by visiting www.geist.org, click on "sermons")