The God of creation.

     For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodlines and unrighteousness of men who supress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. 
     Romans 1:18-20 (NASB)

     Over the course of the last one hundred fifty years or so, biblical doctrines have been attacked and eroded. While it is true that error has always been around, I am thinking more of the attacks on the biblical accounts by the use of higher criticism by theologians, attacks on the inspiration and authority of the bible by many pastors and denominations today, and in particular the attack on the biblical account of creation by Darwin, which still continues today.
     I have seen polls where christians are asked what they believe. The results are quite shocking. Many do not believe in the sinlessness of Christ, His virgin birth, His deity, and His humanity. Others do not believe the account of the flood, or the accounts of the miracles found in the scriptures. We live in a time when people believe what they want to believe, and reject what they don't like, without considering the implications. Once again, it is true that heresies have always been around, but we live in an age when almost anything seems to go in christianity.
     Many individuals reject the biblical account of creation, choosing to believe in evolution, or the big bang theory. They believe that the biblical account is too far fetched, and feel that it is better explained by scientific means. The amazing thing is that many of these individuals consider themselves to be christians.
     There are some doctrinal differences between denominations, that are not that important to the spiritual life of a believer, but the doctrine of creation is not one of them. The above verses tell us that God has revealed Himself to mankind through creation. What is known about God, His invisible attributes, eternal power, and divine nature are clearly seen. Deep within the heart, individuals know. The text tells us that these things are clearly seen, so man is without excuse! To reject the biblical account of creation is to reject the God of creation. You cannot say that you believe in God, and also hold to the big bang theory, evolution, or any other theory. It is not compatible with a true saving faith. This amounts to elevating the creature above the creator. For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the incorruptible God for an image in the form of corruptible man and of birds and four footed animals and crawling creatures (vs 21-23).
     The text is very clear. Those who reject the true God and choose instead a god of their own making, are given over to sinful passion, plunging deeper and deeper into a depraved lifestyle. True biblical doctrine is important. We need to understand it and apply it. To follow a Jesus who sinned, and was not born of a virgin, is to follow a completely different Jesus. To deny His deity or His humanity is to create a new Jesus, one who cannot save you.
     You do not have to pour over volumes of systematic theology to understand true doctrine. It is found in the word of God. Know what you believe, and why you believe it. It matters.