Churches of Christ understand salvation as a gift from God, received through faith in Jesus Christ and demonstrated through obedience to the gospel. This isn't a rigid, formulaic process, but rather a transformative journey guided by Scripture. This guide will explore the key components of the plan of salvation as understood within Churches of Christ, addressing common questions and misconceptions.
What is the Plan of Salvation According to Churches of Christ?
The Churches of Christ approach to salvation centers on the teachings of the New Testament, emphasizing the simple yet profound message of Jesus Christ. We believe salvation is a free gift from God, not earned through good works or human merit. However, receiving and maintaining this salvation involves a conscious response and ongoing commitment. This process typically involves several key steps:
1. Hearing the Gospel:
The first step is hearing the good news of Jesus Christ. This involves understanding the message of God's love, the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross for our sins, and the promise of eternal life offered through faith in Him. This is often communicated through preaching, teaching, personal testimonies, and evangelistic efforts.
2. Repentance:
Repentance means a change of mind and heart, turning away from sin and towards God. It’s not merely feeling sorry for our actions, but actively rejecting a life of disobedience to God's will and choosing to live according to His commands. This involves confessing our sins and seeking forgiveness.
3. Faith in Jesus Christ:
Faith is more than simply believing that Jesus is the Son of God; it's believing in Him as Lord and Savior. It's a trust and reliance upon Jesus' sacrifice for the forgiveness of our sins and the gift of eternal life. This faith leads to a commitment to follow Him.
4. Baptism:
Baptism is a crucial step in the plan of salvation, understood as an act of obedience to Christ's command (Matthew 28:19; Acts 2:38). In Churches of Christ, baptism is by immersion in water, symbolizing the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus, and signifying the believer's identification with Christ's death to sin and resurrection to new life.
5. Continued Obedience and Growth:
Salvation is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process. After baptism, believers continue to grow in their faith, striving to live lives pleasing to God. This involves prayer, Bible study, fellowship with other Christians, and service to others.
What are the specific actions required for salvation?
The actions required for salvation, as understood in Churches of Christ, are not acts earning salvation but rather responses to the grace of God, demonstrating a genuine faith and commitment to Christ. These actions are: hearing the gospel, repenting of sin, believing in Jesus Christ, being baptized in water, and striving to live a life of obedience to God's word.
Is baptism necessary for salvation in Churches of Christ?
Yes, Churches of Christ affirm the necessity of baptism for salvation. This isn't based on human merit, but on the explicit commands of Christ and the examples in the New Testament. We believe baptism is an act of obedience to Christ's command, an outward expression of an inward transformation, and a symbol of our union with Christ.
What does it mean to be saved in a Church of Christ?
Being saved in a Church of Christ means experiencing a fundamental change of heart and life through faith in Jesus Christ. It's a process that begins with repentance and faith and is marked by baptism and a commitment to follow Christ's teachings and live a life of obedience to God. This life of obedience is not a means to earn salvation, but rather a natural outcome of a transformed heart. It's a journey of continuous growth and discipleship.
How can I learn more about the plan of salvation in Churches of Christ?
The best way to learn more is to attend a Church of Christ service and engage with members of the congregation. You can also study the New Testament, focusing on passages related to salvation, such as Acts 2, Romans 6, and 1 Peter 3. Many Churches of Christ also offer Bible studies and classes designed to provide a deeper understanding of the plan of salvation.
This overview aims to provide a clear and concise explanation of the Churches of Christ understanding of the plan of salvation. Remember, this is a complex theological subject; further exploration and discussion are encouraged.
