United in Christ -- Don't Sweat the Non-Essentials

So many times, Christians get into angry or heated arguments and endless debates over details that, frankly, the Bible isn't crystal clear on, and which are not essential for salvation or having a relationship with Jesus Christ, our Lord.

Let us all unite in Christ on the essential things upon which we all should agree! In the spirit of Romans chapter 14, I say, STOP causing division or stumbling your brothers and sisters over non-essential details and doctrines! There is nothing wrong with having your own opinions on things, but don't make them a litmus test of being a "True Christian."

Here are the essential teachings about Christ that all Christians should be able to unite on:

1: Jesus is the Messiah

2: Jesus is the Divine Only-Begotten Son of God

3: Jesus is Lord and Savior

4: Jesus came to earth as a real human

5: Jesus suffered and died for our sins, was raised from the dead, and ascended into heaven.

6: Jesus is King and High Priest at God's right hand in heaven

7: Jesus was sent by God the Father as His Agent

8: Jesus came down from heaven and was born sinless of the virgin Mary

9: Jesus is returning one day

10: Jesus saves those who trust in Him and obey Him

That really is all there is to it on the essentials, taken from the New Testament. Anything beyond these beliefs should be considered "non-essential" and covered by Romans chapter 14.

Anyone making the Trinity (or other non-essential teachings) a mandatory doctrine or "the central doctrine," is missing the point, and is potentially creating a stumbling block, tripping up their brothers and sisters.

Especially bad in this regard are Christians who teach that anyone who doesn't believe in their non-essential doctrine is going to Hell! You're setting yourself up as judge and jury, when in reality, there is only One Judge, who is in heaven!

May we unite in essentials and not sweat the small stuff!