We live in a world that pressures those who believe in moral and ethical absolutes to remain "open-minded." That is, we are to consider the feelings and opinions of others and refrain from insisting we are correct regarding controversial matters. However, as a Christian, I must refuse to play this game, and I refuse to apologize for what I believe and practice. For instance:

I believe God exists. Just because I believe in God and reject evolution does not mean I have not learned and considered the arguments on both sides. I am a product of the public school system, and took a two-semester course in Biology in a public university. I have heard the argument for evolution a number of times. After weighing the evidence, I choose to believe in God and the Six-Day model of creation set forth in Genesis 1-2. My mind is made up on this issue.

I believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God. I have heard many of the arguments that reduce Jesus to everything from a mere historical figure to a myth. I have spent a great amount of time looking at the evidence (John 20:30-31). My mind is made up on this issue.

I believe baptism (immersion in water) is necessary in order for one to be saved (Mark 16:16; Acts 22:16; 1 Pet. 3:21). I used to believe differently. I would not have left my former religious affiliation if I had not been convinced otherwise. I have spent many years studying, preaching and teaching on this subject. My mind is made up on this issue.

I believe it is not only possible, but it is necessary, to be a non-denominational Christian. Despite the pleas and arguments of the churches of men, the Lord's true church that we can read about in the New Testament is not a denomination, nor a part of denominationalism. The Lord only built one church (Matt. 16:18) and will only save one church (Eph. 5:23). My mind is made up on this issue. I have left denominationalism never to return.

I believe homosexuality is a sin and marriage is for one man and one woman for life. I have heard the emotional arguments set forth to the contrary. I have considered this subject from the Biblical, social and biological points of view. My mind is made up on this issue.

Is it possible for me to wrong about my beliefs? Of course it is! Perhaps I have been taught incorrectly. Perhaps I have been taught incompletely (Acts 18:24-26). Perhaps I have not spent enough time studying the Scriptures on a particular topic. If I discover I am wrong about a matter, I need to change my convictions regarding that subject!

However, does it really take all that long to arrive at a correct understanding of the existence of God, the Days of Creation, the Deity of Christ, the Necessity of Water Baptism, the Lord's True Church, Homosexuality and Marriage? No, it does not. In fact, there are some things we are expected to grasp and understand in a short amount of time (Heb. 5:14-6:3). These things need to be settled so we can go on towards maturity.

Brethren, do not be ashamed of the fact that you have convictions which are grounded upon the bedrock of eternal truths set forth in the Word of God. Do not fall in the trap of our current society. The Lord intends for His people to understand the truth (Eph. 5:17) and to take a firm stand in that truth (Eph. 4:14).