Questions
Question: What is a Christian?
Answer: A Christian is a person who believes that Jesus is the Son of God and has decided to follow His teachings.
Christians believe that Jesus Christ is the Messiah (Jewish for Anointed One) that was prophecied about in the Jewish Scriptures - the Old Testament. He died on a cross to take the punishment that individuals deserve for the wrongs that they've done.
Having paid the price, then Christians believe they are forgiven by God if they simply acknowledge they have made mistakes, ask God for forgiveness and try to live the rest of their lives in a way pleasing to God. Christians acknowledge that they cannot "get right" with God by anything they do, but only through believing in Jesus and that He took the punishment for every wrong they've ever done when He hung on the cross.
Question: What is the Bible?
Answer: The Bible is a collection of ancient writings, revealing how God has shown Himself to people throughout history. It is divided into two sections, called Testaments. The Old Testament is largely the story of the the Jewish people and the historical Kingdom of Israel, as well as their longing for the promised Messiah (Anointed One). The New Testament focuses on Jesus - the Messiah and Son of God - and the history of the early church.
Question: What is Back to Church Sunday?
Answer: Back to Church Sunday is an event taking place in churches throughout the UK, encouraging those who are interested in Christianity to come along and see what it's all about.
Our 2009 Back to Church Sunday service will take place on 25th October 2009. The service will include the dedication of the new chairs and building work. It will be very friendly and informal - just come as you are!
Question: Why is going to church important?
Answer: Church attendance does not make anyone a Christian, or guarantee a place in Heaven. The purpose of going to church is to learn more about God; to grow spiritually; to take time out from the pressures of modern life and spend time with our Heavenly Father, and to join in fellowship with other believers. While it is possible to be a Christian on your own, it makes sense to spend time with other believers to share your experiences and encourage each other.
Question: What is the Trinity?
Answer: The Trinity is what Christians believe God is like. Even the best theologians can find is confusing, but essentially, it is the idea that there is One God who exists in three persons - the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. All 3 are equal with each other and have always existed. All 3 are divine in essence, but distinct in person.
God the Father is the Creator of the universe and His relationship with us is as a father to his children.
God the Son (Jesus) is the Saviour of mankind - He paid the price on the cross for the wrongs of humanity and gave them eternal life and freedom from sin and guilt.
God the Holy Spirit is present in every Christian - He helps us discern right from wrong and empowers us to live our lives as best we can.