Fundamental

<<basic, central>>

A term, arising in the 20^th century, describing evangelical denominations and churches who believe that there are certain foundational beliefs that can’t be denied or compromised. This term also applies to other religions where traditional beliefs and values are being maintained despite moves to relax the original ones.

Strictly adhering to specific theological doctrine provides accuracy and a solid foundation of truth with Christian fundamentalists holding to at least these five core beliefs: 1/. The accuracy of the Bible.
2/. That Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, was and is the Son of God.

Truth does not change

3/. Through the substitutionary death of Christ, individuals can experience salvation, by grace alone, from the sin that doomed us to a lost eternity. 4/. The bodily resurrection of Jesus who, after His crucifixion and burial, now sits at the right hand of the Father. 5/. His bodily second coming with the believers raptured before the tribulation.

It is vital to be established in the truth of the Bible. “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness” (2 Tim 3:16). Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth and the life” besides actually “testifying [affirming] to the truth” (Jn 14:6, 18:37). Absolute truth exists and there are consequences for not responding to it. The Bible, the benchmark for life, is to be read and obeyed. Obedience must not be considered an option – it must be carried out. Fundamentalists endeavour to guard the truth of Scripture and defend the Christian faith, which was "once for all entrusted to the saints" (Jud 1:3).

Fundamentalism stands in contrast to modernism or liberalism that erode the basic tenets or core beliefs of Christianity. This downward spiral began with the rejecting of absolute truth, (sometimes termed ‘The Enlightenment’)

The core issues are not open for debate

turning from viewing God’s Word as the standard or authoritative signpost of moral truth and His requirements whereby humans are to live.

The way we present the love and message of God to humanity, must be relevant and in keeping with the culture, yet not modified. Our minds are to be transformed to think correctly (Rom 12:2). We should examine every new teaching and thought, judging it against the Scriptures, rejecting all that does not line up with its commands and principles (Act 17:11). Our experiences should not interpret Scripture, rather as we change and conform to Christ, we interpret our experiences according to Scripture.