Bible Study: What Are the 16 Fundamental Truths of Our Faith?
- Boundless Team
- 17 hours ago
- 5 min read
The 16 Fundamental Truths are the core theological pillars of the Assemblies of God, providing a biblical framework for understanding God, salvation, the Holy Spirit, and the future. They serve as a compass for believers, ensuring our faith is grounded in the infallible Word of God and the transformative power of Jesus Christ.
This guide explores each of the 16 Fundamental Truths in plain language, helping you understand how these ancient biblical principles apply to your daily walk with God today.
Why Do We Need Fundamental Truths?
In a world filled with shifting opinions and noisy digital distractions, it can be hard to know what is true. Doctrine isn't just for scholars in dusty libraries; it’s for every person who wants to know God deeply. These 16 truths are like the foundation of a house. When the storms of life hit, grief, anxiety, or doubt, these truths keep us standing firm on the Rock.
At Boundless Online Church, we believe that understanding these truths helps us move from "scrolling" to "soul care." Whether you are searching for answers in Memphis or connecting with us from the other side of the globe, these truths unite us in a common faith.
1. The Scriptures Inspired
We believe the Bible is the inspired, only infallible, and authoritative Word of God. It is our rule for faith and conduct. When you read the Bible, you aren't just reading history; you are hearing the voice of your Father.
2. The One True God
There is one true God who has revealed Himself as the eternally self-existent "I AM," the Creator of heaven and earth and the Redeemer of mankind. He has further revealed Himself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
3. The Deity of the Lord Jesus Christ
The Lord Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God. We believe in His virgin birth, His sinless life, His miracles, His substitutionary work on the cross, His bodily resurrection, and His exaltation to the right hand of God.
4. The Fall of Man
Man was created good and upright, but by voluntary transgression, he fell and thereby incurred not only physical death but also spiritual death, which is separation from God. This is why we all need a Savior.
5. The Salvation of Man
Man's only hope of redemption is through the shed blood of Jesus Christ. Salvation is received through repentance toward God and faith toward the Lord Jesus Christ. It is a gift of grace, not something we earn.
6. The Ordinances of the Church
We practice two ordinances:
Water Baptism: An outward sign of an inward change.
Holy Communion: A symbolic remembrance of Christ’s suffering and death.
7. The Baptism in the Holy Spirit
All believers are entitled to and should ardently expect and earnestly seek the promise of the Father, the baptism in the Holy Spirit. This experience is distinct from and subsequent to the experience of the new birth.
8. The Initial Physical Evidence
The baptism of believers in the Holy Spirit is witnessed by the initial physical sign of speaking with other tongues as the Spirit of God gives them utterance.
9. Sanctification
Sanctification is an act of separation from that which is evil, and of dedication unto God. It is a progressive work that continues throughout the life of the believer.
10. The Church and Its Mission
The Church is the Body of Christ. Every believer is an integral part of the General Assembly and Church of the Firstborn. Our mission is to seek and save that which is lost, to worship God, and to build a body of saints being perfected in the image of His Son.
11. The Ministry
A divinely called and scripturally ordained ministry has been provided by our Lord for the fourfold purpose of leading the Church in:
Evangelization of the world.
Worship of God.
Building a body of saints.
Meeting human needs with ministries of love and compassion.
12. Divine Healing
Divine healing is an integral part of the gospel. Deliverance from sickness is provided for in the atonement and is the privilege of all believers.
13. The Blessed Hope
The resurrection of those who have fallen asleep in Christ and their translation together with those who are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord is the imminent and blessed hope of the Church.
14. The Millennial Reign of Christ
The second coming of Christ includes the rapture of the saints, followed by the visible return of Christ with His saints to reign on earth for one thousand years.
15. The Final Judgment
There will be a final judgment in which the wicked dead will be raised and judged according to their works. Whosoever is not found written in the Book of Life will be consigned to the everlasting punishment in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone.
16. The New Heavens and the New Earth
"We, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth wherein dwelleth righteousness" (2 Peter 3:13).
How to Grow Your Faith with These Truths
Studying the 16 Fundamental Truths Bible Study isn't about memorizing a list; it’s about falling in love with the God who wrote them. If you feel overwhelmed or "spiritually curious," start with the first truth: God’s Word is for you.
If you are looking for a community to process these truths with, our Bible Study Club is the perfect place to start. You don't have to have it all figured out to join us. We are all learning together, from Memphis to the ends of the earth.
For more resources on growing your faith, check out these articles:
A Prayer for Your Journey
"Lord, thank You for Your Word. Thank You that we don't have to wander in the dark, but we have Your Truth to guide us. Help me to understand these 16 Fundamental Truths not just with my head, but with my heart. Let them change the way I love, the way I live, and the way I hope. Strengthen my faith today. In Jesus' name, Amen."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 16 Fundamental Truths of the Assemblies of God? The 16 Fundamental Truths are the core beliefs of the Assemblies of God, covering everything from the inspiration of Scripture and the nature of God to the baptism in the Holy Spirit and the final judgment.
Why is the baptism in the Holy Spirit considered a fundamental truth? In the Assemblies of God, we believe the baptism in the Holy Spirit provides believers with power for life and service, following the pattern set by the early church in the Book of Acts.
Do I have to believe all 16 truths to attend Boundless Online Church? Absolutely not! Boundless is a bridge for everyone, the curious, the doubting, and the searching. These truths represent our theological foundation, but you are welcome to join us exactly as you are.
Where can I find a 16 Fundamental Truths Bible Study? You can dive deeper into these truths by joining our Bible Study Club where we discuss Scripture and its application in our daily lives.
How do I submit a prayer request regarding my faith? We would love to pray with you. Please visit our Prayer Wall to share your request with our community.
Your Next Step
If you are ready to move from questions to community, we invite you to join our Bible Study Club. Connect with others who are searching for truth and growing in grace.
Visit www.boundlessonlinechurch.org to join groups, submit prayer requests, and grow closer to Jesus Christ.
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