Supposedly, Christians share the following systemic beliefs, which form the core beliefs that are generally agreed upon across various denominations. They include the following:
1. Belief in God: Christians believe in one God who exists in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This concept is known as the Trinity.
2. Jesus Christ as the Son of God: Christians believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, fully divine and fully human. He is seen as the savior of humanity, whose life, death, and resurrection offer salvation from sin.
3. The Crucifixion and Resurrection: The belief that Jesus was crucified, died, and was buried, and then rose from the dead on the third day is central to Christian faith. His resurrection is seen as proof of his divine authority and as a guarantee of resurrection for all believers.
4. Salvation by Grace: Christianity teaches that salvation (being saved from eternal separation from God and granted eternal life) is a free gift from God, received through faith in Jesus Christ. It is not earned by personal merit or good works.
5. The Bible as God’s Word: The Bible, including the Old and New Testaments, is considered the inspired Word of God and is authoritative for faith and life. It is used for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.
6. The Church as the Body of Christ: Christians believe in the Church, both a local community and a global body of believers, united by faith in Christ. The Church is seen as the primary means through which the teachings of Christ are spread and lived out.
7. The Sacraments or Ordinances: Different denominations recognize various sacraments or ordinances as important elements of Christian practice. Most agree on the significance of Baptism and the Eucharist (or Communion), which were instituted by Jesus and are observed in obedience to him.
8. The Second Coming of Christ: Christians anticipate the return of Jesus Christ, who will come again to judge the living and the dead. This belief in the second coming underscores a future hope and accountability for life here and now.
9. The Great Commandments: Jesus summarized the law as loving God with all one’s heart, soul, and mind, and loving one’s neighbor as oneself. This love is seen as the fulfillment of all God’s laws and is central to Christian ethics.
10. The Great Commission: Before his ascension, Jesus instructed his followers to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to observe all that he had commanded. This mission continues to shape Christian outreach and evangelism.
These principles guide the life and theology of Christians around the world, though interpretations and emphases can vary among different denominations and cultural contexts. Your mileage may vary.
