From heterodox to orthodox

Here's a tricky situation.

Let's say Bob has been a Christian for several years. And as far as anyone could tell, is a committed, faithful, and wonderful guy. He's even serving as a volunteer for the church.

The only problem is, he doesn't believe in the doctrine of the Trinity. Is Bob a Christian?

Let's take a quick pause. When considering theological issues, I believe the Trinity to be an essential. To deny the doctrine of the Trinity (one God, three persons, all equal in substance), in my personal view, would place them outside of historic Christianity. This is very different from a disagreement about liturgy or even a liberal interpretation of Genesis. The severity of denying the doctrine of the Trinity has incredible implications.

So the tricky part is... what do you tell Bob? Do you tell him, "Sorry Bob, over the past five years since that altar call and baptism, you thought you were a Christian, but you're not. In fact, you won't be a true Christian until you believe in the doctrine of the Trinity."