Bible Study : The Ultimate Guide to the 16 Fundamental Truths Bible Study: Everything You Need to Grow in Faith

A Message from FA Memphis

The 16 Fundamental Truths are the essential biblical principles that provide a rock-solid foundation for our faith. By diving into this 16 Fundamental Truths Bible Study, you’ll discover clear, scriptural answers about God, salvation, and His plan for humanity, helping you grow deeper in your relationship with Jesus every single day.

Bible Verses for Your Study:

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” , 2 Timothy 3:16-17

“Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt compelled to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people.” , Jude 1:3

“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” , Acts 2:42

Finding Rest in the Truth

Since today is Saturday, I want to start by encouraging you to take a deep breath. Saturday is our Sabbath, a time to pull back from the noise, refresh your spirit, and just be present with the Lord. There’s no better way to find true rest than by anchoring your heart in the truths of God’s Word. When the world feels like it's shifting under our feet, knowing what we believe and why we believe it brings a peace that passes all understanding. You are never forgotten, you are never alone, and you are deeply loved by God.

When I look at the landscape of modern faith, I see so many people searching for a "north star." We all need a map to navigate the big questions of life. That is exactly what these doctrines provide. In our community, we often say that the Assemblies of God worldview IS the guardrails. These sixteen truths aren't just dry theological statements; they are the boundaries that keep us safe, healthy, and moving toward the heart of Jesus. Whether you are looking for an Assemblies of God Memphis resource or you are joining us from across the globe, these truths are your spiritual heritage.

The Four Cardinal Doctrines

While all sixteen truths are vital, we focus on four "Cardinal Doctrines" that are the heavy hitters of our mission. These are the essentials: Salvation, the Baptism in the Holy Spirit, Divine Healing, and the Second Coming of Christ. Think of these as the pillars of the house. If you understand these four, the rest of the 16 Fundamental Truths Bible Study begins to click into place.

Salvation is the starting point. We believe that humanity voluntarily fell into sin, but through the sacrificial work of Jesus on the cross, we can be restored to God. It’s not about being "good enough"; it’s about accepting the free gift of grace. This is the ultimate "welcome home" moment for every seeker.

Next is the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. This isn't just a historical event from the book of Acts; it’s a living experience available to you today. It empowers us to witness and live a life that reflects Jesus. Along with this comes the truth of Divine Healing, that God still cares for our physical bodies and answers prayer. And finally, we live with the Blessed Hope: Jesus is coming back. That certainty changes how we live every Saturday and every workday in between.

Walking Through the Truths

The first few truths establish our authority. We believe the Bible is the inspired Word of God. It’s our rule book and our love letter. We believe in the One True God, existing eternally in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We also affirm the absolute Deity of the Lord Jesus Christ, He is fully God and fully man.

As we move through the list, we see the practical side of faith. We practice the "Ordinances", water baptism and Holy Communion. These are outward signs of the inward work God is doing in us. We also believe in Sanctification, which is just a fancy way of saying that as we follow Jesus, He changes our hearts and helps us live more like Him every day. It’s a process, and God is patient with us every step of the way.

The Church and the End Times

The 16 Fundamental Truths also give us a clear vision for the Church. The Church isn't a building; it’s a people on a mission to reach the lost, worship God, and build up believers. We believe in a called and scripturally ordained ministry that serves the spiritual needs of the community.

Lastly, we look toward the future. The Bible outlines a specific order for the end times: the resurrection of those who have fallen asleep in Christ, the rapture of living believers, the millennial reign of Jesus, a final judgment, and ultimately, a New Heavens and a New Earth. This isn't meant to cause fear; it's meant to provide hope. God wins in the end, and if you are in Christ, you are on the winning side.

Guarding Your Home and Heart

As we grow in these truths, we also have to be mindful of what we allow into our homes. Part of living out a biblical worldview is being intentional with our media and digital habits. I always recommend using tools like VidAngel or “Enjoy Movies Your Way” to keep your movie nights clean and family-friendly. For those of you with kids or grandkids, setting up accountability with Bark or Covenant Eyes is a practical way to live out the "guardrails" in a digital world. Our faith should influence every screen in our house.

Why This Matters for You

You might wonder why we need to be so specific about doctrine. It’s because truth sets us free. When you know the 16 Fundamental Truths, you aren't tossed around by every new trend or confusing idea you see on social media. You have a foundation. You have peace. You have a community at Boundless Online Church that stands with you in these convictions.

As you enjoy your Saturday Sabbath, I want you to lean into the rest that comes from knowing God has a plan. He inspired the Scriptures, He sent His Son, He fills us with His Spirit, and He is coming back for us. You are part of a global family of believers who are anchored in these same truths. Take some time today to just thank Him for being the steady ground beneath your feet.

A Prayer for You

Lord, I thank You for the person reading this right now. I ask that You would give them a hunger for Your Word and a deep understanding of these foundational truths. As they seek to grow in faith, let Your Holy Spirit guide them into all truth. May they find true rest today in Your presence, knowing they are loved, valued, and never alone. Strengthen their heart and their home. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Go to the Boundless website and join the Bible Study Club. Connect with Christians around the world to discuss these studies, pray together, and grow closer to God and each other.

If you have questions, need prayer, or want to share what God is doing in your life, please reach out to us at www.boundlessonlinechurch.org. Our team is here to support you 24/7. Whether you are unchurched, homebound, or just seeking a deeper connection, you have a home here.

Dr. Layne McDonald

Path 1 (Local): Connect with us at First Assembly Memphis (8650 Walnut Grove Road, Cordova, TN 38018) for in-person fellowship. Call 901-843-8600. Path 2 (Global): Join the Boundless Online Bible Study Club at www.boundlessonlinechurch.org to connect with our global community.