This is a continuation of comparing what I believe with the Assemblies of God Statement of 16 Fundamental Truths. We’re ready for number thirteen.
- THE BLESSED HOPE
The resurrection of those who have fallen asleep in Christ and their translation together with those who are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord is the imminent and blessed hope of the church.
1 Thessalonians 4:16,17
Romans 8:23
Titus 2:13
1 Corinthians 15:51,52
I’m surprised that 1 Corinthians 15:19 isn’t included in this section. If the blessed hope is that we will be raised to be with Him, then it should be noted that if Christ has not been raised, then our faith is in vain. Here’s what verse 19 says, ” If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied.” In other words, if salvation is only for this life and there is no resurrection, then what is the purpose of that salvation if we cannot enjoy it forever? Yes, I believe in the blessed hope.
- THE MILLENNIAL REIGN OF CHRIST
The second coming of Christ includes the rapture of the saints, which is our blessed hope, followed by the visible return of Christ with His saints to reign on earth for one thousand years.
Zechariah 14:5
Matthew 24:27
Matthew 24:30
Revelation 1:7
Revelation 19:11-14
Revelation 20:1-6
This millennial reign will bring the salvation of national Israel,
Ezekiel 37:21,22
Zephaniah 3:19,20
Romans 11:26,27
and the establishment of universal peace.
Isaiah 11:6-9
Psalms 72:3-8
Micah 4:3,4
I certainly believe in the Millennial Reign of the Messiah, but I may disagree a little with the rapture doctrine. I believe that most people in the A/G have been taught in the pre-trib rapture. I was taught that, and I believed in it and also taught it for a while. Now, I lean more toward mid-trib and even more toward post-trib. I won’t get into any details because I haven’t spent that much time in the study of eschatology. I do believe, though, that we are in the end times and that we should all be aware of what is going on in the world. I don’t think it’s long before His return. So, it doesn’t really matter if you believe in a pre-, mid-, or even a post-trib rapture, just make sure you are ready to go when the Bridegroom arrives.
- THE FINAL JUDGMENT
There will be a final judgment in which the wicked dead will be raised and judged according to their works. Whosoever is not found written in the Book of Life, together with the devil and his angels, the beast and the false prophet, will be consigned to the everlasting punishment in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.
Matthew 25:46
Mark 9:43-48
Revelation 19:20
Revelation 20:11-15
Revelation 21:8
Yes. There will be a separation of the sheep and goats. There will be The Great White Throne Judgement. And those not found in the Book of Life will be cast out of the presence of God forever. The Bible is very clear on this matter.
- THE NEW HEAVENS AND THE NEW EARTH
“We, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth wherein dwelleth righteousness.”
2 Peter 3:13
Revelation 21
Revelation 22
That will be the end of days, the end of time, the end of suffering and death. All will be as God had intended from the beginning of creation. Hallelujah and Amen!
As you can see, other than the particulars of a rapture doctrine, I stand in affirmation of the 16 Fundamental Truths as outlined by The Assemblies of God Church. Most people would say that the A/G holds to Christian orthodoxy, so I guess I should be included in that list.
Now, if we get down to the finer points, we’ll find some differences and disagreements, but as for the basics or the foundations of faith, we are in agreement. And if we agree on the foundations of faith, then we are preaching the same gospel. Would you still disagree? Then consider this, Peter and Paul disagreed on some things. Were they both preaching the same gospel, or would you say that one of THEM was preaching a false gospel?
