The Bible, regarded as the inspired Word of God, serves as the foundational text for Christian faith and practice. It is composed of the Old and New Testaments, which together reveal God's nature, His will for humanity, and His plan for salvation. The basic principles of God's Word are essential truths that guide believers in their faith and daily living.

1. The Nature of God

The Bible begins with the assertion of God's existence and His role as the Creator: "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1). God's nature is further revealed as holy, just, loving, and merciful. Isaiah 6:3 declares, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth." God's love is epitomized in John 3:16: "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."

2. The Authority of Scripture

The Bible is considered the authoritative Word of God, inspired by the Holy Spirit. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 states, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work." This underscores the belief that Scripture is the ultimate guide for faith and conduct.

3. The Sinfulness of Humanity

The Bible teaches that all humans have sinned and fall short of God's glory (Romans 3:23). Sin is described as a separation from God, resulting in spiritual death. Romans 6:23 warns, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." This principle highlights the need for redemption and reconciliation with God.

4. Salvation through Jesus Christ

Central to the Christian faith is the belief in salvation through Jesus Christ. Jesus is presented as the Son of God, who lived a sinless life, died on the cross for humanity's sins, and rose again. Acts 4:12 affirms, "Salvation exists in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." Faith in Jesus is the means by which individuals receive forgiveness and eternal life.

5. The Role of Faith and Works

The Bible emphasizes the importance of faith in God and His promises. Hebrews 11:6 states, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him." While salvation is by faith, genuine faith is evidenced by good works. James 2:17 explains, "So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead."

6. The Great Commandments

Jesus summarized the law with two great commandments: love for God and love for neighbor. Matthew 22:37-39 records, "Jesus declared, 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'" These commandments encapsulate the ethical teachings of the Bible.

7. The Great Commission

The mission of the Church is encapsulated in the Great Commission, where Jesus instructs His followers to spread the Gospel. Matthew 28:19-20 commands, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you."

8. The Hope of Eternal Life

The Bible promises eternal life to those who believe in Jesus Christ. This hope is a central tenet of Christian faith, providing assurance of life beyond death. Revelation 21:4 offers a vision of this future: "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away."

These principles form the core of biblical teaching, guiding believers in their relationship with God and with others. They are foundational to understanding the message of the Bible and living a life that reflects its truths.