What do Evangelical Christians Believe?
Evangelical Christianity is a diverse and widespread movement within Protestantism that emphasizes the authority of the Bible, the importance of personal salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, and the need for a transformed life that reflects the values of the Christian faith. Evangelical Christians hold a variety of beliefs and practices, but there are several core principles that unite them.
Core Beliefs of Evangelical Christians
1. The Authority of the Bible: Evangelical Christians believe that the Bible is the ultimate authority in matters of faith and practice. They hold that the Bible is divinely inspired and without error in its original manuscripts.
2. Justification by Faith: Evangelicals emphasize the doctrine of justification by faith, which teaches that salvation is a gift from God that comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not by human effort or works.
3. The Trinity: Evangelical Christians believe in the doctrine of the Trinity, which teaches that God exists as one God in three persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit.
4. The Virgin Birth: Evangelicals believe that Jesus Christ was born of the virgin Mary and that He is both fully human and fully divine.
5. The Resurrection: They hold that Jesus Christ rose from the dead on the third day after His crucifixion, which is seen as a proof of His victory over sin and death.
6. The Second Coming: Evangelicals believe in the imminent return of Jesus Christ to judge the living and the dead and to establish His eternal kingdom.
7. The New Birth: Evangelicals teach that salvation involves a spiritual rebirth, or “new birth,” through which individuals are regenerated by the Holy Spirit and become children of God.
8. The Great Commission: Evangelicals believe in the Great Commission, which is the command of Jesus Christ to His disciples to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to observe all that He has commanded.
Practices and Worship
Evangelical Christians often engage in a variety of practices and worship styles that reflect their beliefs. These may include:
1. Bible Study: Evangelicals place a high value on studying the Bible and may participate in small groups or Bible study classes.
2. Prayer: Prayer is a central aspect of Evangelical worship, with individuals and communities often engaging in prayer for personal and corporate needs.
3. Evangelism: Evangelicals are known for their active engagement in sharing the Christian faith with others, both through personal witness and through organized evangelistic efforts.
4. Worship Services: Evangelical worship services often include music, sermons, and opportunities for corporate and personal response to God’s Word.
5. Missions: Evangelical Christians are often involved in missions work, both locally and internationally, to spread the Christian faith and serve others in Jesus’ name.
In conclusion, Evangelical Christians hold a set of core beliefs that emphasize the authority of the Bible, the importance of personal salvation, and the transformative power of Jesus Christ. Their practices and worship reflect these beliefs, as they seek to live out their faith in a way that honors God and serves others.
