Introduction to Christianity/The Christian Faith

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Faith

Now faith is assurance of things hoped for, proof of things not seen. ... By faith, we understand that the universe has been framed by the word of God, so that what is seen has not been made out of things which are visible. (Heb 11:1,3, WEB)

Certain

• God is self existing, knows everything, can do everything, and is everywhere.
• God is love, good, just, and right.
• God created the universe and all that's in it.
• God created humanity like himself, without evil.
• Humanity became evil and because of it, all die.
• God produced his first born son, by a woman, called Jesus Christ.
• Jesus died to save the world from evil, was raised from death, and returned to God.
• Whoever has faith in Jesus Christ, and acts on that faith by doing good, will be resurrected and live forever.

Hope

• Jesus will return with his reward.

"In my Father’s house are many mansions. If it weren’t so, I would have told you. I am going to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and will receive you to myself; that where I am, you may be there also." (Jn 14:2,3, WEB)

• Jesus will establish an eternal new world order.

"Blessed are those who do his commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter in by the gates into the city. Outside are the dogs, the sorcerers, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices falsehood. I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify these things to you for the assemblies. I am the root and the offspring of David; the Bright and Morning Star." (Rev 22:14-16, WEB)

• All evil, pain, suffering, sickness, and death will be removed for ever.

He showed me a [TR adds “pure”] river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb, in the middle of its street. On this side of the river and on that was the tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruits, yielding its fruit every month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. (Rev 22:1,2, WEB)

• God and Jesus will live with humanity.

There will be no curse any more. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants serve him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. There will be no night, and they need no lamp light; for the Lord God will illuminate them. They will reign forever and ever. (Rev 22:3-5, WEB)

Laws

Christianity has the following laws of love:

• Unconditional - "This is the first and great commandment. Love God with all your mind, body, and spirit." (Mt 22:38 [WEB])
• Conditional - "A second likewise is this, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'" (Mt 22:39 [WEB])
• Sacrificial - "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, just like I have loved you; that you also love one another." (Jn 13:34 [WEB])

"By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." (Jn 13:35 [WEB])

Practice

Christianity has the following rituals:

• The Eucharist/Communion/Sacrament - A community "meal" with bread and wine (or juice or water).
• Baptism - A personal sign of accepting Jesus into their life.

A Christian is expected to:

• Pray to God in Jesus' name.
• Meditate on God.
• Fast.
• Study the Scriptures.
• Congregate in fellowship and worship.
• Practice the Gifts of the Spirit.
• Spread the faith throughout the world.
• Watch for the return of Jesus.
• Only do what is useful, beneficial, or productive.

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