Faith Q&A

Who is God and why should I believe in God?

Lord; Father; Creator; Eternal King; Saviour; Shepherd… these are just some of the words we use to describe God, and they describe the One who made all things, rules all things and loves all things.  Since this is God, believing in him is the best thing that we can do.

Who is Jesus?

Jesus Christ is the eternal one and only Son of God. He is both fully God and fully human so that He shares our human experience. He has never sinned but He died on a cross in our place and rose to life. He offers us forgiveness and eternal life.

What is the bible? Can this ancient book be trusted?

God has not hidden from us, but reveals himself through the Bible: 66 books all about him.  These are God’s words that he wants you to hear, and so they have stood the test of history.  Try reading it and see for yourself! Perhaps start with the Gospel of Mark.

If God exists, why does He allow suffering and evil?

This question presupposes an objective moral standard in our world (born in God). Much suffering is the result of (bad) choices humans make, which God allows so that we might freely choose to love Him. The bible testifies to God entering into our suffering world to destroy evil and ultimately bring peace through His son Jesus.

What does it mean to be a christian and how does someone become a christian? 

To be a Christian means that God has called you in His grace to follow His son Jesus and has placed His Spirit in you, enabling you to be born again. This happens when we turn from sin (repentance) and place our trust (faith) in Jesus’ death and resurrection for life.

What makes christianity different from other religions?

Christianity says that humans are uniquely created by God in His image. We are deeply loved by Him and have inherent value. Christianity recognises that we all are sinful and cannot save ourselves. We rely wholly on the saving work of God through Jesus who restores us to relationship with God.

If someone is curious about faith, where should they start?

Visit a local church that teaches the Bible. They will have people who can discuss what faith means with you. They often have a short course that answers more fully many of the questions you may have (Hope Church frequently runs the Good News Course). Also, get hold of a Bible and start by reading the Gospel of Mark.