Epitome of the Faith

The "Epitome of the Faith" is a structured doctrinal manual aimed at supporting Bible students, particularly in presenting key elements of Christian belief from a dispensational, millennialist perspective. Heavily sourced from Scripture (especially the King James Version) and early Watch Tower publications, it acts as both a theological reference and a teaching outline. The work spans the entire arc of the biblical narrative—from creation, sin, and redemption, to resurrection and final judgment—with heavy emphasis on prophetic fulfillment and doctrinal purity.

Major Themes and Doctrines

1. Sound Doctrine & Scriptural Authority

The booklet opens with strong exhortations to uphold and teach “sound doctrine” (citing Jude 1:3, 1 Tim. 4:16, 2 Tim. 2:15). It stresses personal accountability in scriptural understanding and warns against doctrinal corruption. Emphasis is placed on studying, rightly dividing the Word, and being prepared to defend the faith.

2. The Creator and His Nature

God (Jehovah) is presented as eternal, just, wise, loving, and all-powerful. The nature of God is clarified using both Old and New Testament references, and God's consistency and moral perfection are central themes. Importantly, God is not seen as the author of sin.

3. Creation and Humanity

Creation is viewed as an orderly act, starting with the Logos (the pre-incarnate Christ) as the “beginning of the creation of God.” Humanity is made in God’s image but is distinct from animals and angels. Man's original state was one of uprightness and innocence.

4. Satan and the Fall

Satan, originally perfect, fell through pride and ambition to be like God. His deception led to Adam and Eve’s disobedience and humanity's fall. The consequences of sin are death—not eternal torment—and a broken relationship with God.

5. Sin’s Penalty and Human Mortality

Sin results in death, described as nonexistence or “sleep,” not eternal suffering. The booklet emphasizes scriptural terms like “perish”, “return to dust”, and “the dead know not anything.” This view aligns with conditional immortality.

6. Hope of Deliverance and the Covenants

Deliverance begins with God’s promise to Abraham that all nations will be blessed through his seed. Three covenants are detailed:

• Abrahamic Covenant – Unconditional and foundational.

• Law Covenant – Temporary, exposing sin.

• New Covenant – Yet to be fully activated, it will bring about global blessing during the Millennium.

7. Sheol, Hades, and Gehenna

A nuanced view of “hell” is provided:

• Sheol/Hades: The grave or state of unconsciousness.

• Gehenna: Symbolic of total destruction (Second Death), not eternal torture.
  This distinction emphasizes the future resurrection rather than present punishment.

8. Jesus Christ: The Redeemer

Christ is presented as the pre-existent Logos, who became flesh to provide a ransom (corresponding price) for Adam’s sin. His life, death, and resurrection are central to the plan of salvation. His titles—Second Adam, Son of God, Son of Man, Advocate—are explored deeply.

9. Unity vs. Trinity

The booklet rejects the traditional doctrine of the Trinity, presenting instead a hierarchical understanding: God is supreme, Christ is his Son and agent, and the Holy Spirit is God’s power or influence.

10. The Ransom and Atonement

Christ’s death is the legal and sufficient ransom for Adam, satisfying divine justice. This doctrine underpins the resurrection hope and Millennial restoration. Emphasis is placed on life for life and the importance of Christ’s shed blood.

11. The Elect and the Church

God is seen as calling a special group—the Elect—during this Gospel Age. These are spiritual Israel, chosen to become kings and priests with Christ. Their role is to serve in the future Kingdom and assist in restoring humanity.

12. Sanctification, Justification, and Baptism

• Justification: Through faith in Christ’s ransom.

• Sanctification: A process of setting oneself apart to do God's will.

• Baptism: Primarily symbolic of full consecration to God’s will, not just water immersion.

13. The Hidden Mystery and the Bride of Christ

The “mystery” is the Church’s role as Christ’s Body, called to share in his glory and service. The Church is also viewed as the Bride of Christ, soon to be united with him in the heavenly Kingdom.

14. The Second Coming and the Harvest

Christ’s return (Parousia) is seen as invisible and spiritual, marking the start of a harvest period in which:

• The Elect are gathered,

• Babylon (false religious systems) is judged,

• A separation of true and false believers occurs.

15. The Millennium and Kingdom of God

The 1,000-year reign of Christ is portrayed as a time of global restoration:

• Satan will be bound,

• All humanity will be resurrected and educated in righteousness,

• God’s laws will be written in hearts,

• Earth will be renewed physically and spiritually.

16. Resurrection and Restoration

There are two resurrections:

• First Resurrection: For the Church, to glory and immortality.

• General Resurrection: For the rest of mankind during the Millennium for judgment and possible restoration.
  This reflects a redemptive and hopeful view of divine justice.

17. Judgment and Free Grace

Judgment is not merely punitive—it’s a time of learning and opportunity. The Millennium will be the age of “free grace,” where all will come to know God and have the chance to attain everlasting life.

18. Second Death and Gehenna

Those who willfully reject God's grace during the final judgment will face the Second Death—eternal destruction, not torment. Gehenna is a symbol of this permanent death.

Conclusion

The "Epitome of the Faith" is a densely packed doctrinal reference rooted in Scripture, with emphasis on:

• Christ’s ransom,

• Restoration of humanity,

• Resurrection hope,

• Biblical covenants,

• The millennial reign of Christ.

It promotes a clear, logical framework for salvation history, favoring a restorative view of God's plan rather than one focused on eternal damnation.