Foundation Truths (Part Two) – In the Beginning

The importance of having a strong foundation for our faith is emphasized in the Scriptures. Being established on this foundation is critical to our becoming sons of God, as the apostle Paul writes in Ephesians 2:19-20 (NASB): “You are fellow citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the corner stone.”

God laid this foundation. “For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ”
(1 Corinthians 3:11 NASB). Then, through the teachings of Jesus, the apostles and the prophets, He reveals this foundation to us and instructs us on how to build upon it to become a son of God and copy of His dear son. The apostle Paul described this process in 1 Timothy 6:18-19 (NASB):

“Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed.”

This issue, “Foundation Truths, Part 2,” continues our examination of those truths on which we are to build as followers of Christ. Our first article, “The Word was Made Flesh,” examines Jesus’ life, first as the “Logos” or Word of God and then as He was made flesh and sacrificed that perfect human life to redeem mankind. The next article, “Ransom and Restitution,” considers why a ransom was needed and how the man Christ Jesus provided the ransom to release mankind from Adamic condemnation. Then, it examines how the ransom will bring the restitution of all that the human family lost through Adam’s sin.

The article “The Hope and Resurrection of the Dead” reviews one of the great blessings of Jesus’ ransom, the resurrection of all mankind.  Next, “Called to be Sons of God” discusses the great, spiritual invitation offered to the followers of Jesus.

“Where is the Promise of His Presence?” reviews the promise of Jesus’ return to complete his church and establish his earthly kingdom. “In the Paradise of God” reviews many details concerning both the spiritual and earthly phases of Christ’s kingdom which are revealed in Revelation chapter 21. The final article, “Doctrines More or Less Important,” suggests what foundation truths are critical to our faith in God and His plan.

It is our hope that this and the previous issue (“Foundation Truths,” Part 1, May-June 2014) will strengthen our faith in and understanding of the foundation truths that we all hold so dear.