I Believe.....

Regardless of the topic or the discussion a common phrase I hear at the beginning of most sentences is, "I believe....", then you will hear the person's opinion about a specific topic. In Wisconsin that opinion has centered most recently on the Budget Repair Bill; and the opinions are strong. Worldwide the opinion is focused on the tragedy in Japan. And our prayers go out to those affected. In the Christian world the most recent focus has been centered on a book written by a prominent pastor that is presumed to promote the theology of universalism. Part of the universalism teaching is that a loving God would never send someone to hell, if in fact hell actually exists. And the articles, attacks, etc. has ensued. Right? Wrong? I don't know haven't read the book and wouldn't want to make that judgment until I had.

My greater concern is the number of people I hear making statements that begin with "I Believe...", but when asked they can't tell you the foundation upon which they are establishing their beliefs. Typically it's either strictly based on their personal opinion or it's founded in some Biblical truth or fact but they can't substantiate their beliefs. Let me be clear, just because "you believe" something doesn't make it accurate or morally right. Especially if it contradicts the ultimate measure of wrong & right; the Bible. Before we give our opinions about how what someone's beliefs are wrong, why not begin by first solidifying what we believe first. Instead of standing against everything (which at times it is necessary to stand against something) why not start by declaring what you stand for! For me, here is my starting point; my declaration of what I firmly believe in, as supported by God's Word.

I BELIEVE.......

• The Bible is the divine, infallible, inspired Word of God.
• In the Trinity of God (Father, Son, & Holy Spirit).
• Jesus Christ is the literal Son of God born of a virgin.
• Every person is born with a sinful nature and in need of a Savior.
• Salvation comes through Jesus Christ alone and he paid the price of our sins on the cross.
• In a literal heaven prepared for those who have accepted Christ & a literal hell for those who have rejected Christ.
  

This I believe! Why? Because the Bible says every one of these statements are true and statement #1 means I must believe it as well. Before we declare our beliefs about marginal things, we should first know what foundation our faith is built upon. I encourage every Christian to stand on what God's Word believes first and then compare your opinions to the truth of God's before you share them with others. Don't position yourself to believe something that God's Word does not.