The Simple Gospel of Christ

On the day of judgment, if our salvation comes down to an argument, it’s an argument that we will lose. How often do we see the doctrines of men that are so complicated that it would take a thousand bible scholars just to determine what they actually believe. The doctrine of Christ which is contained in the ordinances of the apostles is very plain, and simple to understand. In fact it’s so simple that even a 12 year old child can understand it. Let’s examine that plain and simple doctrine. 2 Cor 11:3

The Doctrine of Salvation

God sent his only begotten son to die on the cross for our sins. Jesus, the son of God was crucified for our sins, was buried, and arose from the dead according to the scriptures. 1 Cor 15:1-4 The gospel of our salvation requires all who hear this very simple gospel to believe this with their heart, confess it with their mouth, Rom 10:10 and to repent and be baptized for the remission of their sins. Acts 2:28 Subsequent to baptism, one is raised to walk a new life, and are to remain faithful until death. Rom 6:3,4; Rev 2:10

The Doctrine of Worship

The disciples who were later called Christians met upon the first day of the week (Sunday) to remember the Lord’s death. They did this by partaking of the Lord’s supper. They sang praises to God by singing with the mouth, and making melody in their hearts. Eph 5:19 They gave of their means each Sunday, and they heard the Word of God by means of preaching. Acts 20:7 Elders are to guide, deacons are to serve, preachers are to preach, and all else are to learn. Acts 20:28; Acts 6; 2 Tim 4:2-5; 2 Tim 2:15

The Doctrine of Morality

All Christians are commanded to live a moral life before God, and before man. A Christian is prohibited to kill, to steal, to commit adultery, to commit fornication, and to engage in homosexuality. These are just a few things we must avoid Gal 5:19-21. Yet, if we commit such things, we have forgiveness of sins if we are willing to repent, and turn from our evil ways. Acts 17:30 A Christian must do the opposite of what most sinners think of as natural. We must turn the other cheek when we are smitten. If we are sued at law for our coat we are to give them our cloak also. If one compels us to go a mile, go two.  Mt 5:39-42 In other words, do more for others than that which is required of us. We must do good to all mankind, especially those who are fellow brethren. We are to lose at this life in order to win eternal life. Mt 16:24-26 Truly, Christians are a peculiar people.

Conclusion: As you see, the doctrine of Christ is a simple doctrine. Obey the gospel, attend worship each Lord’s day, and live a moral life before God, and man. If we are faithful to this, we will gain eternal life. If there is any other doctrine, it was never required by God for our salvation. Gal 1:8,9