Conservative Theology: Holding Firm to the Faith Once Delivered.

Conservative Theology: Holding Firm to the Faith Once Delivered.

Dr. Benson Omole.

Key Text:
“Stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle." 2 Thessalonians 2:15.

Lesson Aim:
To help believers understand conservative theology as a biblical commitment to preserving sound doctrine, the authority of Scripture, and the foundational truths of the Christian faith.

Lesson Introduction:
In every generation, the Church faces pressure to adjust its beliefs to fit changing cultures and philosophies. Conservative theology represents a response to such pressures by emphasizing faithfulness to Scripture, historic Christian doctrine, and moral stability. This approach seeks not innovation, but continuity with the faith handed down by the apostles.
“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” Hebrews 13:8 (KJV).

1. Authority and Inerrancy of Scripture.

Teaching Point
Conservative theology affirms that the Bible is true, trustworthy, and authoritative in all it teaches, including historical events and doctrinal truths.

Bible References
a. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” 2 Timothy 3:16.
b. “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”
2 Peter 1:21.

Teaching Note
This view rejects the idea that Scripture should be reinterpreted or corrected by modern opinions. Instead, Scripture interprets culture, not the other way around.

2. Commitment to Apostolic Tradition.

Teaching Point
Conservative theology stresses loyalty to historic Christian teachings passed down through Scripture and the early Church.

Bible References
a. “Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught.” 2 Thessalonians 2:15.
b. “That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.” Luke 1:4.

Teaching Note
This position contrasts with theological liberalism, which often seeks to reshape doctrine to suit contemporary culture.

3. Emphasis on the Fundamentals of the Faith

Teaching Point
Conservative theology focuses on core Christian doctrines, including the deity of Christ, the virgin birth, His bodily resurrection, and salvation through faith.

Bible References
a. “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh…” 1 Timothy 3:16.
b. “If Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain.”
1 Corinthians 15:14.

Teaching Note
Miracles recorded in Scripture are accepted as literal acts of God, not symbolic myths.

4. Moral Order and Institutional Stability

Teaching Point
Conservative theology teaches that human nature is fallen and requires divine guidance, moral restraint, and spiritual discipline through God’s revealed truth.

Bible References
a. "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked.” Jeremiah 17:9.
b. “Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.” Proverbs 29:18.

Teaching Note
Traditional moral values and church structures are seen as God-ordained safeguards for spiritual and social stability.

5. Conservative Theology Across Christian Traditions.

Teaching Point
Although often linked with Protestant fundamentalism, different types of conservative theology exists across various Christian traditions, wherever Scripture and doctrine are upheld as authoritative.

Bible Reference
a. “Earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.”
— Jude 1:3 (KJV)

Summary for Students
Conservative theology is not about resisting growth, and expansion but about remaining faithful to eternal truth. 
It calls believers to anchor their faith in God’s unchanging Word rather than shifting cultural ideas of men's opinions!!!
“Thy word is settled in heaven.” Psalm 119:89.

Discussion Questions.

1. Why is belief in the authority of Scripture essential to Christian faith?
2. How can the Church remain relevant without compromising doctrine?
3. What dangers arise when core Christian beliefs are altered?
4. In all these, how could one affirm his love for Christ, in view of John 14:15, 21; 15:10; 1John 5:3, 10.

My Teaching note.

Thanks for reading.

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