Thursday, March 29th, 2025

Introduction: All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16 NIV)

The landscape of contemporary spirituality is often marred by a proliferation of beliefs and practices that claim the mantle of Christianity. However, the mere assertion of a Christian identity does not equate to adherence to the authentic tenets of the faith. True Christianity, as defined by the Scriptures, rests upon an unshakeable foundation: the Word of God.

Our opening scripture in 2 Timothy 3:16 serves as a cornerstone of this truth. It declares that “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” This¹ verse underscores the divine origin and authoritative nature of the Bible, positioning it as the ultimate standard for Christian belief and practice.

The Infallible Word: The Bedrock of Faith

Every genuine Christian acknowledges, embraces, and proclaims the absolute truthfulness of the Bible. It is the final arbiter in all matters of faith and life. To deviate from this stance is to stray from the path of true Christianity.

The Bible is not a collection of human opinions or cultural narratives; it is the inspired Word of God, breathed forth by the Holy Spirit. It is a living and active document, capable of transforming lives and shaping destinies.

The Divine Trinity: The Core of Christian Belief

Beyond the acceptance of the Bible’s authority, true Christianity is defined by a profound belief in the divine Trinity. This encompasses:

Jesus Christ, the Son of God: John 1:14 proclaims, “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.”² This verse affirms the incarnation of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who took on human flesh and dwelt among us.

Jesus Christ, the Savior: Romans 5:8 declares, “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” This verse highlights the sacrificial love of God, who sent His Son to die for our sins, offering us redemption and reconciliation.

Jesus Christ, the Risen Lord: Romans 10:9 states, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.”³ Revelation 1:18 further affirms, “I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.” These verses proclaim the resurrection of Jesus Christ, His triumph over death, and His eternal reign as Lord.

The Essence of True Belief: Acceptance, Confession, and Action

The life-transforming power of Christianity is reserved for those who truly believe. True belief is not merely intellectual assent; it involves three essential components:

Acceptance: Acknowledging the truthfulness of the Scriptures and the divine nature of Jesus Christ.

Confession: Publicly declaring one’s faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

Action: Living a life that aligns with the principles and teachings of the Bible.

Without these components, belief remains incomplete and ineffective. It is akin to a seed that is never planted, a potential that is never realized.

The Dangers of Counterfeit Christianity

In a world saturated with diverse spiritual claims, it is crucial to distinguish between genuine Christianity and its counterfeit counterparts. The apostle John warns us in 1 John 4:1-3 to “believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist.

This passage underscores the importance of discernment, urging us to test every spiritual claim against the standard of Scripture. Any teaching that deviates from the core tenets of Christianity, particularly the divinity and humanity of Jesus Christ, is to be rejected.

The Transcendent Life: A Gift of True Belief

The transcendent life in Christ, a life marked by divine power, purpose, and peace, is exclusively available to those who embrace true Christianity. It is a life lived in accordance with God’s Word, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and centered on the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

This transcendent life is not earned through human effort or religious rituals; it is a gift freely given to those who believe. It is a life of abundance, victory, and eternal hope.

Applying the Principles in Our Lives:

Immerse Yourself in the Word: Engage in consistent and diligent study of the Bible, allowing it to shape your beliefs and actions.

Cultivate a Personal Relationship with Jesus Christ: Seek to know Him intimately through prayer and fellowship.

Test Every Teaching Against Scripture: Develop discernment, comparing every spiritual claim with the unadulterated truth of God’s Word.

Live a Life of Confession and Action: Publicly declare your faith and live in accordance with biblical principles.

Prayer:

Dear Father, I thank you for the light of your Word that defines and directs my life. I believe, accept, confess, and proclaim the absolute truth of the Scriptures. I boldly affirm that Jesus Christ came in the flesh, died as my Savior, was raised from the dead, and now, lives in my heart by His Spirit. I live by these truths, walking in the full blessings of your Word, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:

• Romans 10:8-10
• 1 John 4:1-3
• 2 Timothy 3:16

1 Year Bible Reading Plan:

• Luke 6:17-49
• Deuteronomy 31-32

2 Year Bible Reading Plan:

• Matthew 26:1-13
• Exodus 35

May the Lord grant you grace to stand firm on the foundation of true Christianity, and to live a life that glorifies His name.