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The Roots: The Christmas Tree Analogy pt. 2

Last week we discussed the analogy of a Christmas tree for discussing Christian theology and doctrine. In brief a living, growing Christmas tree has four parts: roots, a trunk, branches, and ornaments. When thinking about our beliefs and how important they are in relation to one another and living the Christian life, this analogy can be helpful. Today we are going to talk about the first part of the analogy, the roots.

Every system of belief is built on something. There is always a foundational principle that anchors the rest of the beliefs, even if it is not readily seen. These are the beliefs so central and core to the rest that without them the whole system falls apart.

The roots of tree serve much the same purpose. They are what keeps the tree alive and secure on the ground. The roots collect water and nutrients, feeding the rest of the tree so it may grow big and tall. The roots are also the thing that keep the tree in place during storms and massive winds. If the roots are weak and shallow, the tree will not last no matter how impressive its trunk or branches.

So, what are the roots of Christian belief and practice? What anchors everything we do and believe?

Think carefully about this answer, because from it stems everything else. The answer to this question is the foundation for the rest of Christian faith and life. If the foundation is shaky the rest will fall. If the roots are not deep and strong the tree will not stand. With this in mind, I believe there can only be one answer.

Jesus is the answer.

Who is Jesus? What did Jesus do? This is the foundation from which springs the rest of Christian life and faith. Wrapped up in this are several doctrines that form the basis of all Christianity. This includes things like the Trinity, the Incarnation, the Crucifixion, the Resurrection, and the Second Coming. All of these are directly concerned with who Jesus is and what he did, is doing, and will do. 

This also includes God, because (obviously) Jesus is the ultimate revelation of God to man. Here, at the roots of our faith, we know that God created all things. We know that God has revealed himself to the world so that we may know him. We know that God has acted decisively for our salvation. We know that God is love, holiness, wisdom, beauty, justice, and so much more. Ultimately, who God is and what God has done is the central point of Jesus and Christianity as a whole.

It should be no surprise that at the center of the Christian faith lies Jesus. It is from him that we derive not only the name "Christian" but everything else about our calling and identity. Jesus is truly author and perfecter of our faith. This is the root. Next week we will look at the trunk which grows directly from the roots of our faith.

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