The Doctrinal Basis of My Ministry
My ministry exists to strengthen the faith of believers and to serve the local church by teaching the historical, archaeological, and biblical context of Scripture from a conservative evangelical perspective.
This statement summarizes the foundational biblical convictions that guide my teaching, preaching, writing, and ministry. As a Christian scholar, I hold considered views on many theological and interpretive questions beyond those addressed here. However, this statement represents the core doctrines that shape my ministry and upon which I gladly cooperate with Bible-believing evangelical churches. Scripture alone is the final authority for Christian faith and practice.
Scripture
I believe that the Old and New Testaments are the inspired Word of God, truthful and trustworthy in all that they affirm, and the final authority for Christian faith, doctrine, and conduct.
God
I believe in one eternal God, Creator and Sustainer of all things, who exists as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—three persons, one God.
Jesus Christ
I believe that Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God, fully divine and fully human. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, lived without sin, died on the cross for the sins of humanity, rose bodily from the dead, ascended into heaven, and now reigns as Lord.
Humanity and Sin
I believe that all human beings are created in the image of God and therefore possess inherent dignity and worth. Through sin, humanity has become alienated from God and is unable to obtain salvation by human effort or merit.
Salvation
I believe that salvation is the gift of God’s grace, made possible through the life, atoning death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. All who repent and place their faith in Jesus Christ receive forgiveness, new life, and reconciliation with God.
The Holy Spirit
I believe that the Holy Spirit convicts people of sin, brings about the new birth, indwells believers, and empowers them for holy living, Christian witness, and service.
The Church
I believe that the Church consists of all who have been united to Christ through faith. Believers are called to worship God, proclaim the gospel, make disciples, love one another, and serve the world in Christ’s name.
Christian Life
I believe that followers of Jesus Christ are called to lives of faith, holiness, love, obedience, humility, and service, growing in conformity to Christ through the Word of God and the work of the Holy Spirit.
Christ’s Return and Final Judgment
I believe that Jesus Christ will return personally and visibly, that the dead will be raised, and that God will judge humanity in righteousness. Those who belong to Christ will enjoy eternal life in God’s presence.