by DThere

Created on: May 27, 2010   Last Updated: May 30, 2010

A literal study of New Testament teaching reveals a religious and spiritual perspective that is exclusive. There is no compromise in accepting the statement that Jesus is the "Way, Truth, and Life and no one comes to the Father but by Me (Him)". There are a collection of statements in many of the writings of St. Paul that contain warnings about conflicts of interest with members of other belief systems and groups. Christians are encouraged to assemble together frequently shunning association with outsiders. The Way is narrow.

Old Testament teaching or teachings from the Hebrew Bible also indicate a specific perspective regarding the nature of God and the path to follow Him. God is considered all-powerful, everywhere, eternal, just, loving, righteously vengeful, and full of mercy. The book of Proverbs provides instructions on how to live a life of wisdom rather than to live foolishly. Adultery is frowned upon although it is discussed. Murder is considered unacceptable and yet stories of murderers are highlighted. God is perceived as just and yet the righteous are tempted and tortured by adverse circumstances.The Old Testament is not really a collection of writings about doctrine but rather the Old Testament contains various examples of people making mistakes, doing dreadful things, and yet many thrive with or without the acceptance or presence of God. Many stories and perspectives are tied together by examples of God's interaction with people. Examples of His efforts to encourage faithfulness, obedience, and to respond to His Presence are provided throughout. The transition to the New Testament narrowed the focus, perspective, and requirements to follow God. Believing in God is no longer enough. One must accept Jesus as God.

Even today many Christian groups advocate that there is only one truthful perspective regarding spirituality. Many traditional Christian groups believe that God manifest Himself as Three Persons: Father, Son, and Spirit. Failing to accept this position, individuals are considered heretical. Additionally, many groups also believe that faith in Christ is the only requirement for salvation. Salvation is not earned but is free gift. However, this gift must be accepted and evidence of its acceptance is demonstrated as faithfulness and commitment to the Person of Jesus Christ. Love, rather than being a pleasant feeling, is a commitment to allow the Holy Spirit to cleanse ones life as one continues to surrender to Christ in each of life's moments.

There are many variations in teachings among groups that consider themselves Christian. Some of these variations are significant.  Examples of variation in teachings include that Christ is not a member of the Triune Godhead. He is perceived as a man gifted with God's presence. Rather than the example of His death as a sacrifice for sin for punishment due us, His death is merely perceived as an example of self-sacrifice. This concept varies from the orthodox view that is accepted by many traditional Christian groups. Other variations include not considering homosexual behavior as unacceptable, the requirement of additional tasks or acceptance of teachings as necessary for salvation rather than faith in Christ alone, the idea that God manifest Himself as Father only. Minor variations include that the true Sabbath is not on Sunday or that only adult baptism is considered an acceptable practice.

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