Principles of Faith

Session Overview

Chapter 1 – Sound Doctrine Matters

This chapter emphasizes the necessity of sound doctrine as the foundation for a thriving Christian life. It explains that doctrine is more than intellectual agreement; it is the structured truth that shapes our beliefs, decisions, and discipleship. The reader is invited to see doctrine not as rigid or divisive, but as a life-giving compass rooted in the authority of Scripture and the teachings of Jesus. By pursuing sound doctrine, believers safeguard themselves from deception and grow in spiritual maturity and unity.

Chapter 2 – God: Eternal Creator and Loving Father

This chapter explores the nature and character of God, revealing Him as the eternal Creator and a personal, loving Father. It explains God’s transcendence—His majesty and power—as well as His immanence—His nearness and relational heart. Through Scripture, the chapter shows that God desires to be known, not just acknowledged, and that understanding His attributes transforms how we live and worship. A clear picture of God helps establish trust, reverence, and intimacy with Him.

Chapter 3 – Sin and Redemption

The third chapter lays out the reality of sin—its origin, effects, and consequences—and presents God’s redemptive plan through Christ. It clarifies that sin is not just wrong behavior, but a condition of separation from God, which leads to death and brokenness. Yet the focus quickly turns to the hope found in the cross, where Jesus offers forgiveness, restoration, and freedom. Redemption is not just about escaping judgment but being reconciled to God and restored to His image.

Chapter 4 – Jesus: The Messiah

Here the focus turns fully to Jesus Christ—the promised Messiah, fully God and fully man. This chapter outlines the significance of the incarnation, Jesus’ sinless life, His atoning death, and His victorious resurrection. It affirms that Jesus is not merely a teacher or prophet, but the Son of God who fulfills every Old Testament promise. Believers are called to build their faith and identity on the person and work of Christ, who is the foundation of salvation and the hope of the world.

Chapter 5 – Repentance from Dead Works

This chapter unpacks the doctrine of repentance, explaining it as more than feeling bad or changing behavior—it is a Spirit-led turning away from lifeless attempts at self-righteousness toward a living relationship with God. “Dead works” are exposed as anything we do apart from faith, even religious activity. True repentance leads to transformation, freeing us from shame and empowering us to walk in God’s grace, aligning our hearts with His will.

Chapter 6 – Faith Toward God

Faith is the essential response to God’s invitation to salvation and relationship. This chapter defines biblical faith as active trust in God’s character, promises, and power—anchored not in feelings or outcomes, but in the Word of God. It clarifies that faith is not blind belief or personal optimism, but a gift from God that grows through hearing His Word and obeying it. Living by faith transforms how we pray, obey, and endure trials, drawing us closer to the heart of God.

Chapter 7 – Jesus: The Foundation of Our Faith

This chapter further centers Jesus as the cornerstone of Christian belief. It highlights that every doctrine, every promise, and every spiritual reality finds its fulfillment in Him. The reader is reminded that faith is not faith in faith—it is faith in Christ. The chapter explores how Jesus reveals the Father, fulfills the law, and embodies truth, showing that spiritual maturity is built on continuing in Him. As the author and finisher of our faith, Jesus is both our starting point and our destination.

Chapter 8 – Holy Spirit: Comforter, Guide, and Power

The Holy Spirit is introduced as a divine person who comes to dwell in believers, not merely as a force or feeling. This chapter explains the Spirit’s work in regeneration, empowerment, guidance, and sanctification. Believers are encouraged to cultivate intimacy with the Spirit, be filled continually, and yield to His leading. The Spirit brings supernatural gifts, inner transformation, and boldness for witness. Life in the Spirit is presented as essential for victorious, fruitful Christian living.

Chapter 9 – The Church and Our Role in It

This chapter focuses on the Church as the Body of Christ—a living, spiritual family composed of believers. It teaches that the Church is both local and global, gathered and sent. Every believer has a role to play, with spiritual gifts given for service, unity, and maturity. The Church is not a place we attend, but a people we belong to. As the Spirit-filled community of God’s people, the Church is called to worship, disciple, care for one another, and proclaim the Gospel.

Chapter 10 – Sanctified: Prepared for God’s Purpose

Here, the concept of sanctification is unpacked as God’s work of setting us apart and purifying us for His purposes. The chapter distinguishes between positional sanctification (our status in Christ) and progressive sanctification (our growth in holiness). Like a sculptor shaping marble, God lovingly works in us to reflect His character and fulfill His design. Sanctification is not legalistic striving but a Spirit-led transformation that prepares us to serve and glorify God.

Chapter 11 – Baptisms: Water and Spirit

This chapter explores the doctrine of baptisms—plural—noting both water baptism and Spirit baptism. Water baptism is presented as a public declaration of faith and union with Christ, symbolizing death to sin and resurrection to new life. Spirit baptism is described as an empowering encounter with the Holy Spirit, equipping believers for boldness, gifts, and effective ministry. Both are acts of obedience and grace, foundational to the life of a Spirit-filled disciple.

Chapter 12 – Discipleship

Discipleship is more than conversion; it is the process of following Jesus, learning His ways, and becoming like Him. This chapter emphasizes the cost and commitment of discipleship, as well as the joy and transformation it brings. Discipleship is both personal and communal—it’s about growth and multiplication. Believers are called not only to be disciples but to make disciples, walking with others as they grow in faith, obedience, and purpose.

Chapter 13 – Spiritual Authority

This chapter explores the biblical concept of spiritual authority, grounded in the Lordship of Jesus. Authority in the kingdom of God is not about control or titles but about service, responsibility, and alignment with God’s will. Believers are given authority in Christ to resist the enemy, speak truth, and walk in freedom. The chapter also warns against misuse of authority and stresses the need for submission to God and godly leadership.

Chapter 14 – Keep Watch

The final chapter calls believers to live with spiritual alertness and hope. Drawing from Jesus’ warnings and teachings, it reminds readers to stay awake, remain faithful, and be ready for His return. This watchfulness is not anxious waiting, but active preparation—living in holiness, fulfilling our calling, and walking in step with the Spirit. The chapter ends with a pastoral exhortation to stay rooted in truth, anchored in faith, and ready for eternity.