Doctrinal Beliefs (A Topic Guide)

Shortly after leaving my church home, I began to learn more about various concepts – and I decided to research the denominations more in depth. The search eventually led me to a pretty reputable denominations quiz, courtesy denominationdifferences.com.

The quiz ended up providing me with a great list of study topics for doctrinal, denominational and moral beliefs. I’ve decided to list some of those for you! You’ll find a link to the full multiple choice quiz, at the end. (See: Faith Links)

A quick note: I don’t believe you have to know everything. Some topics are more important to have a grasp on than others.

If nothing else, a better understanding of these topics will help you to know if a teaching is fully departing from Scripture or if there is merely a doctrinal or denominational difference at play. Also, incorporating some of these into your Bible Study is a great way to learn.

As you study, you may want to jot down supporting verses for points of reference.

TOPICS LIST

with sub-questions

courtesy, denominationdifferences.com

The Bible:

How – or, by whom – was it written?

How many books are in the Bible?

Is it without error (inerrant)?

Salvation:

What is needed to be saved? (Simply confession, Confession + Baptism, etc.)

Who can be saved? (Anyone? Whomever God calls? etc.)

Can you lose your salvation?

Baptism:

What are your general beliefs about baptism?

Is baptism for the saved or unsaved?

How is baptism accomplished/practiced?

Can the deceased be baptized?

Holy Spirit:

How do we receive the Holy Spirit?

The Trinity:

Do you believe in the Trinity?

What is the Trinity?

Human Nature:

What do you believe about human nature, sin and corruption?

Are we inclined to do good or inclined to do evil?

How does “Adam’s original sin” impact us?

TOPICS LIST

by subject only

courtesy, denominationdifferences.com

Relevance of Old Testament Ceremonial Laws

Communion Frequency and understanding the elements

The concept of perfection within the Christian walk

Speaking in tongues

Spiritual Gifts – Present today?

God’s dealing with man throughout time

Clergy requirements

Church Ordinance and Sacraments

Beliefs around confession of sin

Church structure

Church worship – Day of week

How do – or how can – we receive God’s revelation today?

Creation of the earth

Divorce + Remarriage

Contraception – Allowed or not allowed?

Humanity – When does a fetus become human?

Blood Transfusions – Allowed or not allowed?

Alcohol – Can Christians partake?

War – Can Christians partake?

Where does your soul go after death?

Tribulation, Rapture + Millennialism