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Frank Tate

Doctrine vs. Saving Faith

Frank Tate 2 min read
#Faith #Faith Alone #Justification
14 Articles 1,990 Sermons
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Frank Tate
Frank Tate 2 min read
14 articles 1,990 sermons
What does the Bible say about doctrine and faith?

The Bible teaches that doctrine is essential for faith, as true doctrine informs and leads to saving faith in Christ.

The Scriptures emphasize that doctrine is not merely theoretical but foundational to salvation. Romans 10:14 states that 'how will they believe in Him whom they have not heard?' This underscores the importance of preaching sound doctrine, as no one can come to faith in Christ without comprehending the truth of who He is and what He has done. Furthermore, while doctrine informs our knowledge, saving faith requires a personal and experiential belief in that doctrine; it recognizes the truths of Scripture and applies them to one’s own life. Doctrine teaches us that all men are sinful and need salvation, but saving faith believes that Christ’s atoning work is sufficient for one’s own salvation. In essence, understanding and believing in true doctrine is imperative for experiencing the fullness of salvation as presented in the Bible.

Romans 10:14

How do we know election is true?

The doctrine of election is affirmed in Scripture, notably in Ephesians 1:4-5, where it states that God chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world.

Election is an essential doctrine within sovereign grace theology, rooted in the character and will of God. Ephesians 1:4-5 declares, 'even as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before Him.' This highlights that election is not based on foreseen merit or decisions made by individuals but is a gracious gift from God. Furthermore, 2 Timothy 1:9 underscores this doctrine by stating, 'who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of His own purpose and grace.' Thus, we understand election as grounded in God's sovereign purpose, ensuring that those chosen will certainly come to faith through the work of the Holy Spirit, fulfilling the divine promise of salvation.

Ephesians 1:4-5, 2 Timothy 1:9

Why is Christ's atonement important for Christians?

Christ's atonement is crucial because it is the only means by which sinners can be forgiven and reconciled to God.

The importance of Christ's atonement cannot be overstated in the life of a believer. Scripture consistently points to Christ’s sacrificial death as the sole basis for justification and forgiveness of sins. In Romans 5:8, we read that 'while we were still sinners, Christ died for us,' which encapsulates the profound love of God demonstrated through Christ's atonement. This act not only satisfies the justice of God but also provides a way for sinful people to be reconciled to a holy God. Additionally, 1 Peter 2:24 asserts that 'He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree,' affirming that through His atoning sacrifice, believers can find redemption and true righteousness. Thus, understanding and embracing the doctrine of atonement is essential for every Christian as it provides the foundation for faith, peace, and hope in the life to come.

Romans 5:8, 1 Peter 2:24

    I have heard people say, “Don’t preach doctrine to me.”  I say, “Preach sound doctrine to me!” There is no salvation without the preaching and hearing of true doctrine.  No one can believe on Christ until they have heard and believed the truth about Christ.  However, salvation and eternal life are much more than a mere head knowledge of true doctrine.

    Doctrine knows that all men died in Adam.  Saving faith believes that I died in Adam.  Doctrine knows that all men are sinful.  Saving faith believes that I am the sinner, the chief of sinners.  Doctrine knows that God elected a people unto salvation.  Saving faith believes that my only hope of salvation is that God chose me because left to myself I would never choose God.  Doctrine knows that Christ died for sinners.  Saving faith believes that the only way the sin of a sinner like me could be forgiven is if Christ died for me. Doctrine knows that Christ died for sin.  Saving faith believes that Christ’s death put away all of my sin.  Doctrine knows that life is in Christ.  Saving faith believes that Christ is my life. Doctrine knows that righteousness is in Christ.  Saving faith believes that Christ is my righteousness.

    O may God be pleased to give me a heart that believes what sound doctrine has taught my head!

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