Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, in a powerful sermon, outlined five fundamental truths of the Christian faith that every believer should understand and embrace. These “5 solid facts of the Gospel” form the bedrock of Christian belief and practice, offering profound insights into the nature of salvation, righteousness, divine authority, spiritual fellowship, and Christ’s return.
Let’s delve into these transformative truths that can revolutionize our understanding of the Christian walk.
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1. The New Birth and Eternal Life
The concept of being “born again” is not merely a religious platitude but a spiritual reality that fundamentally alters a person’s existence. Pastor Chris emphasizes that eternal life is not a future promise but a present possession for those who have accepted Christ.
Understanding Eternal Life
John 3:16, perhaps the most well-known verse in the Bible, declares: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” Pastor Chris points out that this is not a mere promise but a divine decree. The moment one believes in Christ, they transition from death to life.
A New Creation
2 Corinthians 5:17 states, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” This transformation is instantaneous and complete. Pastor Chris challenges believers to consider the implications of this truth, especially in relation to physical ailments or spiritual struggles. If we are truly new creations, how can old afflictions persist?
Born of Incorruptible Seed
1 Peter 1:23 describes believers as “being born again, not of corruptible seed but incorruptible, through the word of God which lives and abides forever.” This new birth is not physical but spiritual, originating from the eternal Word of God. It implies a fundamental change in our nature and potential.
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2. The Righteousness of God
The second solid fact of the Gospel pertains to the righteousness of God imparted to believers. This righteousness is not earned but received as a gift through faith in Christ.
Right Standing with God
Righteousness, as Pastor Chris explains, is more than just right standing with God. It is the nature of God at work in a human being, the manifestation of God’s character through an individual. This divine quality allows believers to live in harmony with God’s will and nature.
The Gift of Righteousness
Romans 5:17 speaks of those who “receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness.” This righteousness is not achieved through human effort but is freely given to those who believe in Christ. It transforms our relationship with God, removing barriers of guilt, condemnation, and inferiority.
Becoming the Righteousness of God
2 Corinthians 5:21 makes a profound statement: “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” Pastor Chris emphasizes that believers don’t just receive righteousness; they become the very embodiment of God’s righteousness in Christ.
3. The Dominion of Christ
The third fact focuses on the authority and power that Christ possesses and shares with His followers. This dominion is not theoretical but practical, affecting every aspect of a believer’s life.
Authority Over All Things
Philippians 2:9-11 declares that God has highly exalted Jesus and given Him a name above every name. This exaltation translates to supreme authority over all creation, an authority that Christ shares with His church.
Exercising Divine Authority
Pastor Chris encourages believers to understand and exercise the authority they have in Christ’s name. He shares personal experiences of commanding healing and seeing instant results, demonstrating the practical application of this dominion.
Overcoming Worldly Challenges
The dominion of Christ empowers believers to overcome obstacles, sickness, and spiritual opposition. It’s not about being victims of circumstances but victors through Christ who strengthens us.
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4. The Fellowship of the Spirit
The fourth fact emphasizes the importance of a personal, intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit. This fellowship is key to living a victorious Christian life.
The Holy Spirit as a Person
Pastor Chris credits Pastor Benny Hinn for teaching him to relate to the Holy Spirit as a person, not just a power. This perspective transformed his spiritual life, leading to constant communion with the Spirit.
Benefits of Spirit Fellowship
- Guidance in all truth
- Constant companionship
- Supernatural empowerment
- Divine direction in decision-making
Speaking in Tongues
Pastor Chris strongly advocates for the practice of speaking in tongues as a means of edifying oneself and maintaining a vibrant spiritual life. He encourages believers to speak in tongues regularly, not just in times of crisis.
5. The Ascension of Christ and the Promise of His Return
The final fact focuses on the historical ascension of Christ and the anticipation of His second coming.
The Significance of the Ascension
Acts 1:9 describes Jesus’ ascension, witnessed by His disciples. This event confirmed Jesus’ divine nature and His return to the Father, completing His earthly mission.
The Impact on Early Believers
Pastor Chris highlights how the ascension transformed the faith of Jesus’ family members who had previously doubted His claims. Seeing Him ascend into heaven convinced them of His divine origin.
The Promise of His Return
The ascension is intrinsically linked to the promise of Christ’s return. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 describes the future event when Christ will return to gather His church. This hope motivates believers to live holy lives and urgently share the Gospel.
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Implications for Believers Today
- Living with eternal perspective
- Urgency in evangelism
- Purifying oneself in anticipation of His return
Conclusion
These 5 solid facts of the Gospel form the foundation of Christian faith and practice. Understanding and embracing these truths can transform a believer’s life, leading to a deeper walk with God, greater spiritual authority, and a more effective witness in the world.
As Pastor Chris Oyakhilome emphasizes, these are not mere theological concepts but living realities that should shape our daily existence as followers of Christ.
