Doctrines of Christ

The “Doctrines of Christ” refer to the foundational teachings that Christ delivered and that were affirmed by the apostles. These doctrines form the bedrock of the Christian faith and are essential for spiritual maturity. Hebrews 6:1–2 outlines six core doctrines which we will explore in detail.

Key Scripture:

Hebrews 6:1-2 (KJV) “Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.”

• 1. Repentance from Dead Works: Turning away from sinful actions and self-righteous efforts that lead to spiritual death. Acts 3:19 says; Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.” Ephesians 2:8-9 says; For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Explanation:

Repentance is a change of mind and heart, turning from sin and trusting in God's grace. Dead works include not only sinful deeds but also religious acts done without faith or relationship with Christ.

• 2. Faith Toward God: Placing complete trust in God and His promises through Christ. Hebrews 11:6 says; But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. Romans 5:1 says; Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

Explanation:

Faith is not just belief, it is trust and reliance on God for salvation, provision, and eternal life. It is essential to walk by faith in every aspect of the Christian life.

• 3. The Doctrine of Baptisms: This includes water baptism and the baptism in the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19 says; Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Acts 1:5 says; For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. Acts 2:38 says; Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Explanation:

There is more than one type of baptism mentioned in Scripture—baptism in water (an outward sign of an inward change), baptism into Christ (salvation), and baptism in the Holy Spirit (empowerment for service).

• 4. Laying on of Hands: A spiritual act often used in ordination, impartation of spiritual gifts, healing, and blessing. Acts 6:6 says; Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them. 1 Timothy 4:14 says; “Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands…” Mark 16:18 – “They shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.”

Explanation:

This act symbolizes the transfer of authority, spiritual power, or blessing. It is a foundational practice in the church and should be done with reverence and discernment.

• 5. Resurrection of the Dead: The future raising of all people from the dead—believers to eternal life, unbelievers to judgment. John 5:28-29 says; Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation. 1 Corinthians 15:52 says; In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 says; For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

Explanation:

Resurrection is a cornerstone of Christian hope. Just as Christ rose from the dead, believers have the assurance of eternal life in a glorified body.

• 6. Eternal Judgment: God's final judgment of all humanity, determining their eternal destiny. Hebrews 9:27 says; It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment. 
• Revelation 20:11-15 says; 11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. 13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. 14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire. 
• 2 Corinthians 5:10 says;  For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

Explanation:

Everyone will face judgment—believers before the judgment seat of Christ for rewards, and unbelievers at the Great White Throne for condemnation. This doctrine encourages holy living and evangelism.

Conclusion

The Doctrines of Christ are not just theological points; they are spiritual foundations every believer must understand and live by. As we mature, we build upon these principles and grow deeper in our walk with God. Let us press on to perfection, fully grounded in the truths of Christ. Hebrews 6:1 says; Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God.