This is based mainly on Paul’s authentic letters (Romans, Galatians, 1–2 Corinthians, Philippians, 1 Thessalonians, Philemon).
For Paul, faith in Jesus is the foundation of Christian life.
But what exactly should people believe?
Paul emphasizes several beliefs—some about Jesus’ identity, some about his death and resurrection, and some about what Jesus accomplishes for humanity.
Below are the key beliefs.
1. People must believe that Jesus is the Messiah (Christ).
The word Christ = Messiah = the anointed one.
For Paul:
- Jesus is the one God chose and sent for the salvation of the world.
- Jesus fulfills God’s plan for Israel and the nations.
Paul starts almost every letter calling him:
“Jesus Christ our Lord.”
So Paul expects believers to confess that:
Jesus is God’s chosen Messiah.
2. People must believe that Jesus died "for our sins."
This is central to Paul’s gospel.
Paul says:
- Jesus’ death was not an accident.
- It was God’s plan to rescue humanity from sin, guilt, and the power of evil.
- Jesus’ death creates reconciliation between God and humans.
Paul’s summary of the gospel:
“Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures.” (1 Corinthians 15:3)
This is the heart of Paul’s message.
3. People must believe that Jesus rose from the dead.
For Paul, the resurrection is essential. Without it:
- Faith is empty
- Hope is useless
- There is no salvation
Paul says:
“If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord
and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead,
you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9)
So belief in the historical resurrection is non-negotiable for Paul.
4. People must believe that Jesus is “Lord.”
“Lord” (Kyrios) is Paul’s most important title for Jesus.
To say “Jesus is Lord” means:
- Jesus is now risen and reigning
- Jesus shares God’s authority
- Jesus demands loyalty and obedience
- Jesus is above all powers, rulers, and spiritual forces
For Paul, calling Jesus “Lord” is like pledging allegiance to him.
5. People must believe that Jesus brings justification by faith.
Paul teaches that:
- People cannot be saved by obeying the Law
- Salvation comes through faith in Christ
- In Christ, God declares sinners righteous (justified)
So Paul expects believers to trust that:
Jesus, not the Law, is the basis of our acceptance by God.
6. People must believe that Jesus reveals God’s love.
Paul sees the cross as the ultimate revelation of God’s character.
He says:
“God shows his love for us
in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)
Believing in Jesus means believing in the love of God revealed in him.
7. People must believe that Jesus will return.
Paul strongly teaches a future coming of Christ.
Believers should expect:
- Jesus will return in glory
- The dead in Christ will rise
- Evil will be defeated
- God’s kingdom will be fully revealed
So faith includes hope in Jesus’ future reign.
Summary: What Paul Wanted People to Believe About Jesus
According to Paul, believers must affirm that:
1. Jesus is the Messiah (Christ).
2. Jesus died for our sins.
3. Jesus rose from the dead.
4. Jesus is Lord over all.
5. Salvation comes through faith in Jesus, not the Law.
6. Jesus reveals the love and character of God.
7. Jesus will come again to complete God’s plan.
These are the core beliefs that define Paul’s understanding of Christian faith.
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