The Fundamental Principles
Once we understand and accept that we are fallen because of sin, we must come unto God through Jesus Christ in order to receive a remission of our sins and a hope of eternal life. This begins in repentance, faith, baptisms, and the laying on of hands, which are the first four “principles of the doctrine of Christ” as found in Hebrews, chapter six. In this chapter, Paul mentions those fundamental oracles that Jesus both taught and exemplified in His life which were the foundation to His doctrine. A doctrine that caused astonishment among the people, “for He [Jesus] taught them as one that had authority.” [Mark 1:22].
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It was this authority and doctrine that caused many individuals to follow Christ and become a disciple under His teachings. Moreover, it moved others, such as Nicodemus and the rich young ruler, to approach the Master in order to discover the oracles of God and eternal life. In particular, the rich young ruler approached Jesus, saying, “Good Master what good thing shall I do, that I might have eternal life?” [Matthew 19:16]. Jesus answered by saying, “if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.” [Matthew 19:17]. To which the man responded by saying, “all these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?” [Matthew 19:20]. In other words, keeping the ten commandments was not enough to obtain his desire of eternal life. “Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.” [Matthew 19:21].
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Jesus essentially told the young man that if he wanted to receive the gift of eternal life, he needed to give away all of his sins and come and follow Christ. The only way to receive redemption and justification unto eternal life with God, the Father, Jesus Christ, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, is to follow the example set by Christ. This starts with the six fundamental principles mentioned below…
