Essential Christian Doctrines: Foundations of Salvation

These 14 points outline core tenets of Christian belief and are considered essential for salvation. They emphasize humanity’s need for redemption through Jesus Christ, and they are what set true Christianity apart from all others. The Gospel story—God’s plan to rescue sinners through Christ’s life, death, resurrection, and reign—integrates these doctrines into a cohesive narrative of divine love and justice.

1. Human Depravity

Human depravity refers to the inherent sinful nature of all people, rendering them spiritually dead and inclined toward evil from birth. This doctrine means that no one is righteous on their own merit, as sin affects every aspect of human life.

It is important because it explains why salvation is necessary: without acknowledging this condition, individuals cannot recognize their need for a Savior. In the Gospel story, it sets the stage for God’s intervention as it highlights the contrast between human corruption and divine holiness.

Romans 3:23: “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Psalm 51:5: “Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin my mother conceived me.” Ephesians 2:1-3: “And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, in which you once walked according to the course of this world… and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others.”

2. Christ’s Virgin Birth

Christ’s virgin birth means Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit in the womb of Mary, who remained a virgin until His birth. This miraculous event was also a fulfillment of prophecy.

This is important as it affirms Jesus’ divine origin while preserving His sinless nature, free from inherited depravity. In the Gospel, it marks the incarnation—God entering humanity—to bridge the gap caused by sin.

Isaiah 7:14: “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel.” Matthew 1:23: “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” Luke 1:34-35: “Then Mary said to the angel, ‘How can this be, since I do not know a man?’ And the angel answered and said to her, ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God.’”

3. Christ’s Sinlessness

Christ’s sinlessness means Jesus lived a perfect life without any sin, despite facing temptations.

It is crucial because only a sinless sacrifice could atone for humanity’s sins. In the Gospel narrative, it qualifies Him as the spotless Lamb of God, enabling redemption.

2 Corinthians 5:21: “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” Hebrews 4:15: “For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.” 1 Peter 2:22: “Who committed no sin, nor was deceit found in His mouth.” 1 John 3:5: “And you know that He was manifested to take away our sins, and in Him there is no sin.”

4. Christ’s Deity

Christ’s deity affirms that Jesus is fully God, co-equal and co-eternal with the Father.

This is essential since it establishes His authority to forgive sins and grant eternal life. This means that the Gospel of Jesus Christ is actually God Himself providing salvation, a demonstration of His infinite love.

John 1:1: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” John 10:30: “I and My Father are one.” Isaiah 9:6: “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given… And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” John 8:58: “Jesus said to them, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.’”

5. Christ’s Humanity

Christ’s humanity means Jesus was fully human, experiencing physical and emotional realities while remaining divine.

It matters because it allows Him to represent humanity in atonement and empathize as High Priest. The incarnation equates to God being born in human flesh to suffer and die for sinners.

John 1:14: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” Philippians 2:7-8: “but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.” Hebrews 2:17: “Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people.”

6. God’s Unity

God’s unity declares there is one God, undivided in essence.

This is foundational and is a complete rejection of polytheism in favor of monotheism. It underscores that salvation comes from the one true God.

Deuteronomy 6:4: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one!” Isaiah 45:5: “I am the Lord, and there is no other; There is no God besides Me.” 1 Corinthians 8:6: “yet for us there is one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we for Him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, through whom are all things, and through whom we live.” Ephesians 4:6: “one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.”

7. God’s Triunity

God’s triunity, or Trinity, means one God exists eternally in three co-equal Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

This is vital for understanding God’s relational and loving nature, as well as the cooperative work that takes place within the Godhead: The unbegotten Father sends, the only begotten Son redeems, the Holy Spirit proceeds and empowers.

Matthew 28:19: “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 13:14: “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” Matthew 3:16-17: “When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him. And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, ‘This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.’” 1 John 5:7: “For there are three that bear witness in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one.”

8. The Necessity of God’s Grace

The necessity of God’s grace means salvation is an unearned gift from God, not achieved by human effort.

Grace initiates redemption, which is then received through faith.

Ephesians 2:8-9: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” Titus 2:11: “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men.” Romans 3:24: “being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.”

9. The Necessity of Faith

Faith in Jeus Christ is the means by which the grace of God is received unto salvation. Faith consists of belief, trust, and commitment.

The result of true saving faith in Jesus Christ is justification.

Hebrews 11:6: “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” Romans 5:1: “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

10. Christ’s Atoning Death

Christ’s atoning death means Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross is fully sufficient to pay the penalty for the sins of mankind. He died for us so that we could live for Him.

1 Peter 2:24: “who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed.” Romans 5:8: “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Hebrews 9:28: “so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.”

11. Christ’s Bodily Resurrection

Christ’s bodily resurrection means Jesus physically rose from the dead, conquering death.

It validates His claims and assures believers of their own future resurrection. It is a confirmation of Christ’s victory over sin.

1 Corinthians 15:3-4: “For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.” Luke 24:39: “Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself. Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have.” Acts 1:3: “to whom He also presented Himself alive after His suffering by many infallible proofs, being seen by them during forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God.”

12. Christ’s Bodily Ascension

Christ’s bodily ascension means Jesus physically ascended to heaven after His resurrection.

It signifies His exaltation and enthronement as the true King of Kings, reigning over the church age.

Acts 1:9-11: “Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, who also said, ‘Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.’” Luke 24:50-51: “And He led them out as far as Bethany, and He lifted up His hands and blessed them. Now it came to pass, while He blessed them, that He was parted from them and carried up into heaven.”

13. Christ’s Present High Priestly Service

Christ’s present high priestly service means that during the church age, Jesus intercedes for believers. His prayers for them ensure that the full will of God is accomplished in each believer.

The prayers of Christ ensure that no born-again Christian could ever be lost.

Hebrews 4:14-15: “Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.” Hebrews 7:25: “Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 9:11-12: “But Christ came as High Priest of the good things to come, with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of this creation. Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all, having obtained eternal redemption.”

14. Christ’s Second Coming, Final Judgment, and Eternal Reign

This doctrine encompasses Christ’s return, judgment of all, and eternal kingdom rule.

The story of humanity concludes with ultimate justice and restoration. God sets all things right in the end. The wicked are resurrected to eternal death, and those who put their faith in Jesus Christ will be resurrected to eternal life.

Acts 1:11: “This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.” Matthew 25:31-32: “When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats.” Revelation 20:12: “And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books.” Revelation 11:15: “Then the seventh angel sounded: And there were loud voices in heaven, saying, ‘The kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever!’”

(Note: all Scripture quotations are from the New King James Version)