ARE WE REDEEMED? THE THEOLOGY OF REDEMPTION AND THE CRISIS OF FAITH/IDENTITY IN THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION

Abstract

Christianity came about through the story of the cross. The revelation of God to humanity is fully realised through the dwelling of the Holy Spirit in the hearts of believers. Through the Holy Spirit, spiritual gifts are distributed to believers for the common good of all. Should we deny the passion of Christ that led to our redemption? The event of Good Friday that leads to Easter Sunday reveals the suffering, new life, and unconditional love of the divine God to mortal humanity. In suffering, Jesus submitted to human authority to give salvation to humankind. God reveals himself in no other ways except in suffering, new life (through his resurrection), and unconditional love. The paper made use of expository and analytic methods of research. Data were collected from books and the Holy Book. The research reveals the emergence of various sects within Christendom, leading to significant issues based on controversial doctrines and teachings that contradict the true theology of redemption. Furthermore, today, in some of these new sects, prosperity is emphasised over and against the mainstream doctrine of the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. While true leaders
of the Church are worried about the rising false doctrines about the Christian religion, some false leaders are using religion to confuse people more and exploit them for personal gain. The Church should communicate the Holy Spirit in which Christ himself continues to be incarnate, active, and visible to those who have faith. Leaders of the Church should proclaim and nurture the Christian faith to members for the common good of all. Christians should also know that redemption is the salvific foundation of Christian belief. Jesus' teachings reflect his character, and he embodies his teachings. Life without Jesus for the Christians is life without future hope and glory in God’s Kingdom.