It makes a difference what we believe!

Ephesians 4:3-7 - “Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. [4] There is one body and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; [5] One Lord, one faith, one baptism, [6] One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. [7] But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.”

In our passage, the Bible lays out the fundamental requirements set forth by God. Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of making the right choices in life and highlights God's provision of a perfect option for His followers to remain steadfast, loyal, and obedient to His will. These requirements are not up for discussion and are crucial for pleasing God. They represent the non-negotiable and essential aspects of our faith that we must adhere to.

The following highlights the essential elements of the Christian faith that all believers must profess and fulfill to please God:

Firstly, there is only one true Church (Body) that God has preserved throughout the centuries to be the steward of God's truth. This Church is the keeper of the one true faith and is entrusted with propagating it to the world.

Secondly, one Holy Spirit works and empowers the one true Church to preserve the one faith and propagate it with one call to service. This one Spirit is the guiding force behind the Church's actions and the one that empowers it to achieve its mission.

Thirdly, one HOPE has been promised to those whom God has called to spread the one faith. This hope is the assurance of eternal life with God, given to those who trust Him.

Fourthly, there is only one LORD, and that is Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and He is the only way to salvation—believing in Jesus Christ as the only Lord is a cornerstone of the Christian faith. He is the only Lord we must obey and serve.

Fifthly, there is only one Faith given as our firm foundation. This faith is based on God’s Word, the foundation upon which all other Christian beliefs are built.

Sixthly, there is only one baptism, which began with John the Baptist, and it is through this baptism that the one body identifies itself in Christ. Baptism is a symbolic representation of what Christ did on the cross and His glorious resurrection.

Lastly, there is only one true God Who is immutable and sovereign, to whom we must worship, submit, and obey. We believe that God is the creator of the universe and the ultimate authority in all things. We can fulfill our purpose and find true happiness through our submission and obedience to Him.

Having a solid and unwavering foundation is crucial for us to fulfill the absolute mandates of Christ, as mentioned in Matthew 28:19-20 and Luke 4:18. These mandates are not optional but essential for the empowered Church to fulfill to please God and receive eternal rewards. Therefore, we must strive to firmly stand on this solid foundation to carry out these mandates with grace and conviction. 

 Throughout history, there have been those who have sought to undermine the teachings of the cross, resulting in the proliferation of false interpretations and imitations of these absolutes. As a result, countless churches now claim to be the true ones, each espousing their unique version of the faith. Similarly, numerous versions of the Bible have been printed and circulated to persuade individuals away from the one true faith.

As believers of God and members of the only empowered Church, we must make every effort to preserve and promote the values and principles that define our faith. In the face of constant assaults from our adversaries, we must remain steadfast and unwavering in our commitment to these essential truths. Through our unwavering devotion, we can continue to uphold these timeless truths that guide us in our journey of faith.

Our Prayer for Today:

Our Heavenly Father, I pray that You strengthen our faith so we remain on Your solid foundation. May we stay in these absolute necessities to continually and faithfully serve you. Many have left. I pray you to return them in the fold, for you have brought us together with one purpose: to glorify You for all eternity. In Jesus' name. Amen!