Bible Study: What Do Christians Believe?
Christians believe that God has revealed truth in Scripture, that Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior, and that the 16 Fundamental Truths of the Assemblies of God summarize essential biblical doctrine about God, salvation, the Holy Spirit, the Church, healing, Christ’s return, judgment, and eternal hope.
If you have ever wondered what Christians believe and why doctrine matters, this guide gives a clear, Scripture-based overview of the 16 Fundamental Truths. It is designed to help you understand the heart of Christian faith with clarity, confidence, and hope.
Why the 16 Fundamental Truths Matter
The 16 Fundamental Truths are not meant to replace the Bible. They are a clear summary of what Scripture teaches about the Christian faith. For believers, they offer a solid foundation. For seekers, they answer an important question: what do Christians believe?
These truths help us stay anchored in God’s Word when life feels confusing. They give language to the Gospel, shape spiritual maturity, and keep our focus on Jesus.
The 16 Fundamental Truths of the Assemblies of God
1. The Scriptures Inspired
Christians believe the Bible is inspired by God and trustworthy for faith and life. Scripture teaches us who God is, who we are, and how salvation is found in Christ (2 Timothy 3:15–17; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; 2 Peter 1:21).
2. The One True God
Christians believe there is one true God who has revealed Himself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God is eternal, holy, loving, and worthy of worship (Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 43:10–11; Matthew 28:19).
3. The Deity of the Lord Jesus Christ
Christians believe Jesus is fully God and fully man. He was born of a virgin, lived without sin, performed miracles, died for our sins, rose bodily from the grave, and is exalted at the Father’s right hand (Matthew 1:23; Hebrews 7:26; Acts 2:22; 1 Corinthians 15:3–4; Hebrews 1:3).
4. The Fall of Man
Christians believe humanity was created good but fell into sin through disobedience. Because of sin, every person needs forgiveness, redemption, and spiritual life through Jesus Christ (Genesis 1:26–27; Genesis 3:6; Romans 5:12–19).
5. The Salvation of Man
Christians believe salvation is offered by grace through repentance toward God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. No one saves themselves. We are rescued by what Jesus has done for us (Luke 24:47; Ephesians 2:8–9; Titus 3:5–7).
6. The Ordinances of the Church
Christians practice water baptism by immersion and Holy Communion. Baptism publicly identifies a believer with Christ. Communion remembers His suffering, death, and promised return (Matthew 28:19; Romans 6:4; 1 Corinthians 11:26).
7. The Baptism in the Holy Spirit
Christians believe the Holy Spirit empowers believers for witness and service. In Assemblies of God doctrine, the baptism in the Holy Spirit is a distinct experience following salvation for spiritual power and ministry (Luke 24:49; Acts 1:4, 8).
8. The Initial Physical Evidence of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit
Assemblies of God believers teach that speaking in other tongues, as the Spirit gives utterance, is the initial physical evidence of the baptism in the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4; Acts 10:44–46; Acts 19:6).
9. Sanctification
Christians believe sanctification is both an act of separation from evil and a continuing life of growing in holiness. God keeps shaping us to become more like Jesus (Romans 12:1–2; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; Hebrews 12:14).
10. The Church and Its Mission
Christians believe the Church is the body of Christ, called to worship God, care for people, make disciples, and share the Gospel with the world (Ephesians 1:22–23; Matthew 28:19–20; Mark 16:15).
11. The Ministry
Christians believe God calls and equips leaders to serve the Church by preaching the Word, shepherding believers, and helping the body of Christ grow in unity and maturity (Ephesians 4:11–13; 1 Corinthians 12:28).
12. Divine Healing
Christians believe divine healing is provided in the atonement and is a privilege for believers to seek in prayer. God still heals according to His power, wisdom, and compassion (Isaiah 53:4–5; Matthew 8:16–17; James 5:14–16).
13. The Blessed Hope
Christians believe Jesus will return for His Church. This promise gives comfort, urgency, and hope to every believer waiting for His appearing (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17; Titus 2:13; 1 Corinthians 15:51–52).
14. The Millennial Reign of Christ
Christians believe Christ will reign on earth, bringing salvation to Israel and peace among the nations. His kingdom will display His justice and glory (Zechariah 14:5; Matthew 24:27, 30; Revelation 20:1–6).
15. The Final Judgment
Christians believe there will be a final judgment for those who reject Christ. This sober truth reminds us that eternity matters and that God is both holy and just (Matthew 25:46; Mark 9:43–48; Revelation 20:11–15).
16. The New Heavens and the New Earth
Christians believe God will make all things new. Those who belong to Christ will dwell with Him forever in righteousness, joy, and peace (2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:1–4; Revelation 22:1–5).
How These Truths Help You Build a Stronger Faith
Doctrine is not cold information. It is a steady place to stand when life feels shaky. These truths remind us that God has spoken, Jesus saves, the Holy Spirit empowers, the Church matters, and the future belongs to Christ.
If you feel spiritually overwhelmed, start here: read one truth at a time, look up the Scriptures, and ask God to make His Word clear in your heart. A strong faith is built on truth, not just emotion.
If you want to keep growing, visit the Prayer Wall at www.boundlessonlinechurch.org, join the Bible Study Club at www.boundlessonlinechurch.org, and explore more encouragement through What Does the Bible Really Say About Anxiety?, Can I Know God Personally?, and What Is the Meaning of Life?.
A Prayer for Clarity
Lord, thank You for giving us Your Word and for making Yourself known through Jesus Christ. Please give me clarity where I feel confused, faith where I feel uncertain, and peace where I feel overwhelmed. Help me understand what is true, trust You more deeply, and walk in the power of Your Spirit. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do Christians believe about God?
Christians believe there is one true God who reveals Himself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He is Creator, Savior, and Lord over all.
What are the 16 Fundamental Truths in simple terms?
They are a biblical summary of core Christian doctrine in the Assemblies of God, covering Scripture, God, Jesus, salvation, the Holy Spirit, the Church, healing, Christ’s return, judgment, and eternity.
Why do the 16 Fundamental Truths matter for everyday faith?
They help believers stay rooted in biblical truth, avoid confusion, and grow in a faith that is clear, grounded, and centered on Jesus.
Do all Christians believe exactly the same things about doctrine?
Christians agree on core Gospel truths, but denominations may explain some doctrines differently. The 16 Fundamental Truths reflect Assemblies of God doctrine and Pentecostal conviction.
How can I learn what Christians believe from the Bible?
Start by reading the Gospels, looking up the Scriptures listed in this article, and joining a Bible study community at www.boundlessonlinechurch.org.
Visit www.boundlessonlinechurch.org to keep growing in biblical truth and connect with prayer, Bible study, and Christian community.
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