The ten most important things for Christians in the world today center on upholding the core tenets of faith, living out the teachings of Jesus Christ, and engaging with the world in a manner reflective of biblical principles. These aspects are deeply rooted in Scripture and underscore the importance of personal faith, ethical living, evangelism, and social engagement.
- Love God and Love Others – The greatest commandments, as stated by Jesus, encompass loving God with all one’s heart, soul, and mind, and loving one’s neighbor as oneself (Matthew 22:37-40). The Greek word for love in this context is “agape,” indicating a selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional love.
- The Authority of Scripture – Upholding the Bible as the inspired, inerrant Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17). The Greek term “theopneustos” is used, meaning “God-breathed,” indicating the divine origin and authority of Scripture.
- Salvation by Grace Through Faith – Emphasizing that salvation is a gift from God, received through faith in Jesus Christ, not by works, so no one can boast (Ephesians 2:8-9). The Greek term for “grace” is “charis,” denoting God’s unmerited favor.
- The Great Commission – The call to evangelism and discipleship, commissioning believers to spread the Gospel and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). The term “make disciples” translates to “matheteuo” in Greek, meaning to teach or instruct.
- Holiness and Sanctification – The pursuit of holiness and the process of being made more like Christ (1 Peter 1:15-16; Hebrews 12:14). The Greek word for “sanctification” is “hagiasmos,” meaning the process of becoming holy or set apart.
- The Importance of the Church – The role of the church as the body of Christ, meant for fellowship, worship, and the edification of believers (Hebrews 10:24-25; 1 Corinthians 12:27). The Greek term “ekklesia,” translated as “church,” refers to the gathering or assembly of believers.
- Biblical Stewardship – Managing God’s creation and resources responsibly, including time, talents, and treasures (Genesis 1:28; Malachi 3:10; Matthew 25:14-30). “Stewardship” involves the careful and responsible management of something entrusted to one’s care.
- The Sanctity of Human Life – Valuing all human life as created in the image of God, from conception to natural death (Genesis 1:27; Psalm 139:13-16). The term “image” in Genesis, “tselem” in Hebrew, conveys the idea of being made in God’s likeness.
- Marriage and Family – Upholding marriage as a divine institution and the foundational unit of society (Genesis 2:24; Ephesians 5:22-33). “Marriage” in Hebrew is “kiddushin,” meaning sanctification or dedication.
- Engagement with Society – Christians are called to be salt and light in the world, engaging positively with society while standing firm in their faith (Matthew 5:13-16). The metaphor of “salt” and “light” illustrates the influential and preservative role Christians are to play in the world.
Digging Deeper
- What is the most important thing in the Christian life? – The most important thing in the Christian life is to love the Lord with all thy heart, soul, and mind, And to love your neighbor as yourself.
- Take up Your Cross and Follow Jesus – The teaching of “taking up your cross” is about understanding the cost of discipleship that might involve self-sacrifice or hardship.
- It is time for the church to awaken and grow up – The church has been asleep for too long. It is time to awaken and grow up before it is too late. The night is over, the day is approaching.
- The LORD says, Even now return to me – When disaster strikes, some people return to God for understanding, comfort, and a new relationship. But others turn away. What will you do?