Essentials vs Non-essentials

This afternoon I had an interesting experience. It was one of those few days when I had extra time and was looking for a church that can use my passion and love for Christian Apologetics. I was explaining to this brethren who is in a position of authority , what most apologists knew as to why Christianity has been marginalized and why we are losing our children when they leave for University when I mention about instrumental music. I stated that instrumental music is a non-salvation issue and non-essential and I would be comfortable in worshipping with my Christian brethren. Unfortunately, this brethren look at it from a different perspective. Instrumental music worship is not scriptural--I agree, (disagree with the following) : it is a sin and therefore false worship must stop. These are fallen christians and will not inherit the kingdom of God. I disagree to those statements.
I have not even mention about complementarianism vs egalitarianism. This will really throw a monkey wrench into our discussion.

What I would like to highlight here is : ESSENTIALS VS NONESSENTIALS


We must distinguish between the essentials of the Christian faith and the non-essentials. Concerning Salvation: We need to be able to state exactly what the Bible says is essential for salvation. In other words what exactly is the content of what a person needs to believe to be saved. I am not going to try to discuss the essentials of salvation but to try to show the reader that one need to distinguish that so as not to get lost and 'fight the peripheral fight.'

I will start out with The Essentials as that is the most important. Like Francis Schaeffer said:
True Truth. Not dependent on culture, time, season, location, or situation. It exists as True or False in and of itself. The followings are the Essentials of Christianity
God (Jehovah) is the sovereign Lord and creator of the universe.
• The Bible is God’s inspired word to mankind.
• Jesus Christ is the divine Son of God, who came to earth to present the gospel.
• Christ was crucified for our sins, was resurrected, and ascended back to God.
• Christ commanded all Christians to evangelize.
• The Lord’s Supper is a weekly communion service with God.
• Baptism was established for the remission of sins, so that believers might be reconciled to God, and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
• The Church was established on the Day of Pentecost and continues to serve the spiritual and physical needs of believers.
(Adapted from Visalia Community Church of Christ.)

Non-essentials Truth/ Truth that are non-essentials. Here we have issues that does not pertain to one's salvation. Glossolalia has that ceased or not. Complementarianism vs Egalitarianism

Most Christians confuse the above with


True relativity. These right and wrong depends on culture, time, regions, seasons, locations. An example while worshipping should women wear head covering.

I welcome comments



Blessings


Eric