Christianity's Most Important Doctrines

Some people are very passionate about their particular view of End Times ("Eschatology") while on the other hand, some people are very indifferent about it. Some Evangelical Denominations have very narrow views about what constitutesacceptable views about Eschatology. In some of these denominations they actually make agreement with their End Times position an essential requirement for ordination. Many people find the topic so difficult that they's rather not even attempt it. One prominent Seattle preacher recently said that discussing aspects of Eschatology was as important as discussing "wookies" (from the Star Wars movie series)! In one respect he is right, in that, there are several Biblical doctrines which are far more important than Eschatology. But...

It's critical know what the "most important" Christian doctrines are, before you can assert that or agree with the statement that Eschatology is not among the most important Christian Doctrines. Here are the top 4 most important-

1. Theology Proper - The Person, identity, nature, attributes, prerogatives and acts of God.
2. Christology - The Person, identity, attributes, incarnation, ministry, resurrection and glorification of Christ.
3. Anthropology - Creation, fall, nature, affects of sin, and destiny of mankind.
4. Soteriology - salvation of mankind from sin, redemption, adoption, reconciliation, regeneration, sanctification, resurrection, judgment, eternal destiny.

These are the most important doctrines of Christianity. They are also referred to as "Primary Doctrines." This is why many believers do not consider eschatology to be a doctrine that Christians should divide over. Eschatology, they argue, is a doctrine of "Secondary Importance." After all, speculating about what the Bible says regarding the future is just that: speculation. How then can anyone make a system of speculation the basis for Christian orthodoxy? There is however some hesitation for pressing this point too far. Let me explain why...[read full article]