Foundational Truths of Faith at Shores Church

Devotional

Day 1: The Divine Inspiration of Scripture

The Bible, in its original texts, is divinely inspired by God. This means that the words were spoken through the Holy Spirit to human authors. While translations may sometimes lose nuances, the original message remains God's infallible word. This underscores the importance of studying Scripture deeply and reverently. The Bible is not just a historical document or a collection of moral teachings; it is the living word of God, meant to guide, correct, and inspire us in our daily lives.

Understanding the divine inspiration of Scripture compels us to approach the Bible with a sense of awe and respect. It encourages us to dig deeper into its teachings, seeking to understand the heart of God as revealed through His word. This foundational belief shapes our faith and practice, reminding us that God's word is a reliable and authoritative guide for our lives. [00:00]

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV): "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."

Reflection: How can you make time today to study a passage of Scripture more deeply, seeking to understand its original context and meaning?

Day 2: The Deity of Jesus Christ

Jesus is both fully God and fully man, sent to die for our sins. This dual nature is essential for our salvation, as only a sinless God-man could atone for humanity's sins. Recognizing Jesus' deity compels us to worship Him and follow His teachings wholeheartedly. Jesus' life, death, and resurrection are the cornerstone of our faith, providing the means for our reconciliation with God.

Understanding the deity of Jesus Christ helps us grasp the magnitude of His sacrifice and the depth of His love for us. It also calls us to a higher standard of living, as we seek to emulate His character and obey His commands. Worshiping Jesus as God means surrendering our lives to Him, trusting in His sovereignty, and relying on His grace. [01:06]

Colossians 2:9-10 (ESV): "For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority."

Reflection: In what ways can you worship Jesus today, acknowledging His deity and expressing your gratitude for His sacrifice?

Day 3: The Process of Sanctification

Sanctification is both an instantaneous and progressive process. When we accept Jesus, we are instantly made right with God. However, as we live our lives, we progressively become more like Jesus. This journey of sanctification requires daily commitment and reliance on the Holy Spirit. It is a lifelong process that involves growing in holiness, developing Christ-like character, and overcoming sin.

The process of sanctification reminds us that while we are saved by grace, we are also called to live out our faith through our actions and attitudes. It encourages us to be patient with ourselves and others, recognizing that spiritual growth takes time. By relying on the Holy Spirit, we can experience transformation and become more like Jesus each day. [03:43]

Philippians 1:6 (ESV): "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ."

Reflection: What is one specific area of your life where you need to rely more on the Holy Spirit for growth and transformation?

Day 4: The Church's Mission

The Great Commission calls us to make disciples of all nations. This mission is not just for pastors but for every believer. We are all called to share the gospel, baptize new believers, and teach them to obey Jesus' commands. This mission gives purpose and direction to our lives, reminding us that we are part of a larger story and a global community of faith.

Understanding the church's mission helps us see the importance of evangelism and discipleship in our daily lives. It challenges us to be intentional about sharing our faith and investing in the spiritual growth of others. By participating in the Great Commission, we fulfill our calling and contribute to the expansion of God's kingdom. [05:07]

Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV): "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."

Reflection: Who is one person you can share the gospel with or encourage in their faith journey today?

Day 5: The Blessed Hope

We have a blessed hope in the resurrection and the rapture. This hope assures us that, regardless of life's trials, we will be caught up with Christ and spend eternity with Him. This future promise encourages us to live faithfully and expectantly, knowing that our ultimate home is with Jesus. The blessed hope provides comfort and motivation, reminding us that our present sufferings are temporary and that a glorious future awaits us.

Understanding the blessed hope helps us maintain an eternal perspective, focusing on the promises of God rather than the challenges of this world. It inspires us to persevere in our faith, knowing that our labor is not in vain. By holding on to this hope, we can experience joy and peace, even in the midst of difficulties. [06:25]

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 (ESV): "For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord."

Reflection: How can the promise of the blessed hope influence your attitude and actions today, especially in the face of challenges or uncertainties?

Sermon Summary

### Summary

Welcome to the third video in our online membership class for the Shores Church. Today, we delve into the 16 fundamental truths that form the bedrock of our beliefs. Understanding these truths is crucial for anyone considering joining our church.

First, we believe that the Scriptures, both Old and New Testaments, are inspired by God. The original texts were divinely inspired, though translations may sometimes lose nuances. Second, we affirm the existence of one true God, the eternal creator, who is worthy of worship. Third, we recognize the deity of Jesus Christ, who is both fully God and fully man, sent to die for our sins. Fourth, we acknowledge the fall of man, who was created perfect but chose to sin, bringing physical and spiritual death into the world.

Fifth, we believe in the salvation of man through Jesus Christ's sacrifice. Sixth, we observe two ordinances: water baptism and communion, as public declarations of faith and remembrance of Christ's sacrifice. Seventh, we believe in the baptism of the Holy Spirit, which empowers us with spiritual gifts, including speaking in tongues. Eighth, we hold that speaking in tongues is the initial physical evidence of this baptism.

Ninth, sanctification is both instantaneous and progressive, making us more like Jesus over time. Tenth, the church's mission is to fulfill the Great Commission, making disciples of all nations. Eleventh, we believe in a divinely called ministry to lead the church in worship, evangelism, and spiritual growth. Twelfth, divine healing is an integral part of the gospel, demonstrating God's power and leading people to salvation.

Thirteenth, we hold to the blessed hope of the resurrection and the rapture, where believers will be caught up with Christ. Fourteenth, we believe in the millennial reign of Jesus Christ, where He will rule for a thousand years. Fifteenth, there will be a final judgment where everyone will be held accountable for their actions and beliefs. Finally, the sixteenth truth is the promise of a new heaven and a new earth, a glorious future for all believers.

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Key Takeaways

1. man could atone for humanity's sins. Recognizing Jesus' deity compels us to worship Him and follow His teachings wholeheartedly. [01:06]
3. Sanctification: Sanctification is both an instantaneous and progressive process. When we accept Jesus, we are instantly made right with God. However, as we live our lives, we progressively become more like Jesus. This journey of sanctification requires daily commitment and reliance on the Holy Spirit.

4. The Church's Mission: The Great Commission calls us to make disciples of all nations. This mission is not just for pastors but for every believer. We are all called to share the gospel, baptize new believers, and teach them to obey Jesus' commands. This mission gives purpose and direction to our lives.

5. The Blessed Hope: We have a blessed hope in the resurrection and the rapture. This hope assures us that, regardless of life's trials, we will be caught up with Christ and spend eternity with Him. This future promise encourages us to live faithfully and expectantly, knowing that our ultimate home is with Jesus.

### [01:06]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:30] - Introduction to Fundamental Truths
[00:45] - The Inspiration of Scripture
[01:06] - The One True God
[01:25] - The Deity of Jesus Christ
[01:45] - The Fall of Man
[02:00] - The Salvation of Man
[02:20] - Ordinances of the Church
[02:34] - Water Baptism and Communion
[03:00] - Baptism of the Holy Spirit
[03:20] - Speaking in Tongues
[03:43] - Sanctification
[04:00] - The Church and Its Mission
[05:07] - The Ministry
[05:30] - Divine Healing
[06:00] - The Blessed Hope
[06:25] - The Millennial Reign of Christ
[06:45] - The Final Judgment
[07:00] - New Heavens and New Earth
[07:44] - Conclusion and Next Steps

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What does 2 Timothy 3:16-17 say about the purpose of Scripture?
According to Matthew 28:19-20, what are the key components of the Great Commission?
In 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, what event is described, and what is the sequence of events that will occur?
How does the sermon describe the process of sanctification? ([03:43])

Interpretation Questions

Why is it important to understand that all Scripture is God-breathed, as stated in 2 Timothy 3:16-17? How does this influence our approach to reading the Bible?
What does the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 imply about the role of every believer in the church's mission? ([05:07])
How does the promise of the resurrection and the rapture in 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 provide hope and encouragement to believers? ([06:25])
The sermon mentions that sanctification is both instantaneous and progressive. How can this dual nature of sanctification impact a believer's daily life and spiritual growth? ([03:43])

Application Questions

Reflecting on 2 Timothy 3:16-17, how can you make Scripture a more integral part of your daily life? What specific steps can you take to study the Bible more deeply and reverently?
Considering the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20, identify one person in your life who you can share the gospel with. What practical steps can you take this week to engage them in a spiritual conversation? ([05:07])
The sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus' deity. How does acknowledging Jesus as both fully God and fully man affect your worship and daily walk with Him? ([01:06])
How can the hope of the resurrection and the rapture, as described in 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, influence the way you handle life's trials and challenges? ([06:25])
Sanctification is described as a journey that requires daily commitment. What specific actions can you take to rely more on the Holy Spirit and become more like Jesus in your daily life? ([03:43])
The sermon mentions the importance of divine healing. Have you ever experienced or witnessed divine healing? How does this belief shape your prayer life and your understanding of God's power? ([05:30])
Reflect on the final judgment and the promise of a new heaven and a new earth. How does this future promise motivate you to live a life that is pleasing to God? ([06:45])

Sermon Clips

1. "Fundamental truth number one is the scriptures are inspired. That both the Old Testament and the New Testament is inspired by God, and that he spoke the words through the Holy Spirit to man who wrote them down. Now I want you to realize the original authorship, the original letter, is what is inspired. As things get copied and translated over time, things can lose meaning or not carry the complete process. So I want you to read it out loud. But the original text was inspired by God." [01:06] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "Fundamental truth number two is the one true God. That the one true God has revealed himself as the eternal, self-existent creator of heaven and earth. There is no one greater, there is no one above God, and he is a good God that is worthy to be worshipped." [01:06] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "Fundamental truth number four is the fall of man. Man was created perfect. He was created good and upright in the likeness and image of God, but voluntarily chose the sin, allowing physical death and spiritual death to enter into the world." [01:06] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "Fundamental truth number six is the ordinances of the church. We have two ordinances as a church, and we partake in them on a regular basis in our services, is water baptism and communion. Water baptism is the public declaration of what Jesus Christ did for you. It's when you say, I want to live for Jesus, I want to live differently, that a lot of times you'll make that personal declaration and invite Jesus into your heart. Water baptism is that public declaration in front of your church family that you want to make that step of following after Jesus." [02:34] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "Sanctification is an act of separation from that which is evil in dedication to God. We believe that it is instantaneous and progressive, that if you invite Jesus into your heart, you are instantly made right with God, but that as you live out the rest of your life, progressively you look more and more like Jesus. So sanctification is something we hold on to, and we realize it is instant and it is progressive until we meet God. Face to face." [03:43] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "Fundamental truth number 12 is divine healing. Divine healing is an integral part of the gospel, and we see it play out so much through Jesus' ministry and then the apostles after Jesus ascends back into heaven. That healing is used as a sign of God's power, ultimately to lead people to repentance and salvation in Jesus Christ. So we believe, again, that ideal full gospel, that if the Bible says healing is meant for the New Testament church, that means it's meant for us today and that we can pray for people and see people healed." [05:07] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "Fundamental truth number 13, and it is the blessed hope. The resurrection of those who have already fallen asleep, who have already passed away, with those who are believing, and we are going to be caught up and go into heaven with Jesus. Now, this is that typical idea that you hear of the rapture. We don't know the... the timing. As the Assemblies of God, we believe in a pre-tribulation rapture, but whether it's pre-, mid-, or post-tribulation rapture, we know that we have a blessed hope and that we will be caught up and into the clouds, and one day we will be with Jesus in heaven." [06:25] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "Fundamental truth number 15 is the final judgment, that there will be a final judgment, that we will have to stand before God, both the wicked and the saints, and that we will be held responsible for what we did and what we chose to believe, and that if we simply put our faith in God, that we will find ourselves worthy of making it to heaven because of what Jesus did for us." [06:25] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "The 16th fundamental truth is new heavens. The new earth, that after everything has played itself out, after the final judgment, after the book of Revelation is done, that there will be a new heaven and a new earth, that God will create them, and they are going to be amazing. The end of Revelation kind of spells out what it's going to look like. It's going to be a great place that you're going to want to be there, and I hope you're there with us." [07:44] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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