The Church of the Nazarene is a Protestant denomination known for its Wesleyan-Holiness theological tradition. Its core beliefs are clearly articulated in its Articles of Faith, providing a strong foundation for its global community. This comprehensive guide delves into the key tenets of the Nazarene faith, exploring each article in detail and addressing common questions surrounding its doctrines.
What are the Nazarene Articles of Faith?
The Church of the Nazarene's Articles of Faith are a concise yet thorough statement of its beliefs. They are not meant to be exhaustive but rather serve as a foundational declaration of the church's theological position. These articles guide the church's practices, worship, and mission throughout the world. They encompass essential doctrines related to God, humanity, salvation, the church, and the Christian life.
The 16 Articles of Faith: A Detailed Exploration
The sixteen articles cover a broad spectrum of theological beliefs, each carrying significant weight in shaping Nazarene identity and practice. Let's examine each one:
1. The Holy Scriptures: This article affirms the Bible as the inspired Word of God, the ultimate authority for faith and practice. Nazarenes believe the Bible is without error in its original manuscripts and provides the complete and sufficient revelation of God's will.
2. The One True God: This article asserts the belief in one God eternally existing in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, co-equal and co-eternal. The Trinity is a central doctrine shaping Nazarene worship and understanding of God's nature.
3. The Deity of Our Lord Jesus Christ: This article emphasizes the full deity of Jesus Christ, acknowledging his divine nature, perfect humanity, and atoning sacrifice for the sins of humanity.
4. The Virgin Birth: Nazarenes believe in the virgin birth of Jesus Christ, affirming his miraculous conception by the Holy Spirit and his unique status as both fully God and fully man.
5. The Life and Ministry of Christ: This article highlights the perfect life, ministry, miracles, and teachings of Jesus Christ, serving as an example for Christian living and the basis for salvation.
6. The Atonement: This article focuses on the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross, emphasizing his death as a substitutionary payment for the sins of humanity, reconciling humanity to God.
7. The Resurrection of Our Lord: This article declares the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, a cornerstone of Christian faith, signifying victory over sin and death.
8. The Ascension and Session of Christ: This article affirms the ascension of Christ into heaven and his continuing reign at the right hand of God the Father, interceding for believers.
9. The Holy Spirit: This article emphasizes the personhood and work of the Holy Spirit, highlighting His role in conviction, regeneration, empowerment, and sanctification.
10. Christian Experience: This article describes the Christian experience as a process of conversion, sanctification, and ongoing growth in Christlikeness.
11. Repentance and Faith: This article explains the necessity of repentance from sin and faith in Jesus Christ for salvation, emphasizing the transformative power of God's grace.
12. Justification: This article defines justification as a free gift of God received through faith in Jesus Christ, declaring believers righteous in God's sight.
13. Sanctification: This article focuses on the process of sanctification, a progressive work of God's grace that results in increased holiness and Christlikeness.
14. The Ordinances of the Church: This article outlines the two ordinances instituted by Christ – baptism and the Lord's Supper – and their significance for believers.
15. The Church and its Mission: This article describes the Church as the body of Christ, called to worship, fellowship, and evangelism, fulfilling its mission of spreading the gospel to all nations.
16. The Return of Our Lord: This article affirms the belief in the second coming of Christ, anticipating his return to judge the living and the dead and establish His eternal kingdom.
What are the Nazarene Church's Beliefs on Salvation?
The Nazarene Church's understanding of salvation is deeply rooted in its Wesleyan-Holiness tradition. It encompasses:
- Conversion: A turning away from sin and a turning toward God.
- Justification: Being declared righteous in God's sight through faith in Christ.
- Sanctification: A progressive process of becoming more Christlike, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
- Entire Sanctification: A complete cleansing from sin, enabling believers to live a life of holiness.
How do Nazarenes View the Bible?
Nazarenes hold the Bible in high regard, considering it the inspired Word of God, the ultimate authority in matters of faith and practice. They believe it to be without error in its original manuscripts, though acknowledging the challenges of translation and interpretation.
What is the Role of the Holy Spirit in Nazarene Theology?
The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in Nazarene theology. He is seen not merely as an influence but as a person, actively involved in conviction, regeneration, empowerment, and the ongoing sanctification of believers. The Holy Spirit guides, teaches, and equips believers for Christian living and service.
This comprehensive overview of the Nazarene Articles of Faith provides a foundational understanding of the core beliefs that shape this global denomination. For a more in-depth exploration, consult the official Church of the Nazarene resources.
