Deviations from the True Gospel: Various Christian Denominations' Views

When discussing the message of Jesus, it is important to explore the diverse perspectives that various Christian denominations hold. These differing viewpoints often vary significantly from the foundational Gospel teachings as presented in the New Testament, particularly in passages like 1 Corinthians 15:3-8. Understanding these deviations can provide insight into the various ways in which the message has been interpreted and adapted over time.

Understanding the Fundamental Gospel in 1 Corinthians 15:3-8

The New Testament letter to the Corinthians, written by the apostle Paul, offers some of the clearest and most concise statements about the doctrine of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:3-8 is a pivotal passage in discussing the foundational aspects of the Christian faith. This passage asserts that the truth of the Christian message hinges on the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures

4 and that he was buried, and that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures

5 and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve.

6 Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep

7 then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles

8 and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one born out of due time.

This passage clearly articulates the core message of the resurrection, emphasizing the importance of the sign and evidence of Jesus' resurrection from the dead. This truth forms the bedrock of the Christian faith and the validity of Christ's teachings and messages.

Deviations from the True Gospel

Gnostic Christianity

One important deviation from the true Gospel is found in Gnostic Christianity. Gnosticism is characterized by its belief in secret knowledge or gnosis, which is believed to offer salvation. In this context, Jesus is portrayed as a divine being who appeared as human but was actually a spirit. According to Gnostic teachings, salvation is available only to those who are initiated into this secret knowledge.

Islam

Another deviation from the true Gospel is found in Islam. Islam holds that Jesus was a prophet but not the son of God. His mission was to prepare the way for the coming of the final messenger, Muhammad. Islamic theology asserts that Jesus did not die on the cross and was not raised from the dead. This deviation significantly alters the Christian narrative about the identity and mission of Jesus.

The Mormon LDS Church

In the context of the LDS Church, Jesus is seen as the son of a human father and God. This belief separates Jesus and God as two distinct persons, with the Holy Ghost being a separate person of spirit. This understanding of the trinity and the nature of Jesus deviates from the traditional Christian doctrine.

Jehovah's Witnesses

Jehovah's Witnesses hold a view that Jesus is a created being who died to atone for human sins. Their understanding suggests that Jesus died for three days and nights, ceased to exist for three days, and was later resurrected as a great spirit. This interpretation significantly differs from the traditional Christian understanding of the resurrection and the nature of Jesus.

Arianism

Arianism is another significant deviation that claims that Jesus is a lesser divine being created by God the Father. The Arian view posits that Jesus became a human and died for our sins, yet ceased to exist for three days before being reanimated as a spirit. This differs from the orthodox Christian understanding of the divinity and historical reality of the resurrection of Jesus.

Liberal Social Gospel

The Liberal Social Gospel movement sees Jesus primarily as a moral and ethical teacher. They emphasize the idea of love, peace, and social justice, while often downplaying the traditional theological aspects of his message. This deviation focuses on the earthly teachings of Jesus rather than the supernatural aspects of the Christian faith.

The True God and Son According to Biblical Teachings

Given the diverse interpretations presented by these various denominations, it is argued that no single church can truly claim to hold the correct understanding of God and His son. The argument is that the sole correct God and son according to the Bible are Elohym and Yeshua.

Elohym is believed to be the male aspect, while Yehovah Elohym and Ruach Elohym are considered co-eternal aspects of the divine, collectively known as Elohym. The true Son of God, according to biblical teachings, is Yeshua.

"Elohym's first act of creation was Yeshua, Their only begotten son, John 3:16, the firstborn of all creation, Colossians 1:15, the beginning of the creation of God, Revelation 3:14."

This theological assertion challenges the traditional Christian understanding and proposes a return to a more ancient understanding of the nature of God and His relationship with Jesus.

The Importance of the Resurrection in Christian Faith

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is a cornerstone of the Christian faith. It is the evidence that Christ was indeed the promised Messiah and the fulfillment of God's plan of redemption. Without the resurrection, the Christian message lacks its fundamental proof and power.

Christ's death and resurrection offer salvation, sanctification, and the promise of eternal life to those who believe. The resurrection is also critical to the church's mission of spreading the good news and making disciples of all nations.

Conclusion

The various deviations from the true Gospel presented by different Christian denominations reflect a rich tapestry of theological diversity within Christianity. While these interpretations offer valuable insights into the evolution of Christian thought, it is essential to recognize the importance of the foundational teachings as laid out in the New Testament, particularly in passages such as 1 Corinthians 15:3-8.

By understanding and reflecting on these passages, Christians can appreciate the significance of the resurrection and the truth of the message. These insights can also foster a deeper appreciation for the unity and diversity within the Christian faith.