Statement of Faith
We believe that Truth is found in a journey, not a destination. So, as we state our beliefs, we are in no way claiming that we have all the Truth. Truth is a person and that person is Jesus Christ. As we grow in our relationship with Him, we grasp more fully the Truth. We derive our statement of beliefs from the Bible. The Bible is infallible; we, however, are not. Therefore, we try to approach the text in humility and interpret the Scripture to the best of our ability. What we will not do is make excuses for the Scripture. Rather, we will embrace its tension. We will strive to be comfortable with our differences as well as our questions. As Paul said, "For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified" (1 Corinthians 2:2, NKJV).
Fundamental Doctrine
Salvation is by grace and through faith in Jesus Christ. As we respond in faith, grace enables us to repent (turning toward God as we confess and forsake our sin), be baptized into Jesus Christ, and receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit with the initial sign of speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives the ability. We shall endeavor to keep the unity of the Spirit without contending for our different views to the disunity of the body.
Our Beliefs
- The Bible is God's perfect guidebook for living (2 Timothy 3:16).
- Nothing in creation "just happened." God made it all (Genesis 1:1).
- God is one; infinite in power, holy in nature, and personal in His love for mankind. Through the grand story of redemption, He has revealed Himself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Deuteronomy 6:4; 2 Corinthians 13:14; John 1:1).
- Jesus was conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary and, as such, is fully God and fully man. He is the Son of God in whom the completeness of God exists (1 Timothy 3:16; Matthew 1:23).
- Grace is the only way to have a relationship with God (Ephesians 2:8-9).
- We are buried with our Lord Jesus Christ in the waters of baptism (Matthew 28:19; Acts 2:38; Romans 6:4).
- Through His Holy Spirit, God lives in and through us now (Acts 1:8; 19:1-6).
- The fruit and gifts of the Spirit are to be a part of the believer's life (1 Corinthians 12 through 14).
- The church is people, not a building or denomination (1 Corinthians 12:27).
- Faith is the only way to grow in our relationship with God (Romans 5:2).
- There are eternal rewards and judgments. Death is not an end -- it is a beginning (Hebrews 9:27; Revelation 22:12; 1 Corinthians 3:12-15).
- Tithes and offerings are an expression of heartfelt worship (2 Corinthians 9:6-11; Malachi 3:8-11).
- Believers in Jesus Christ should live in unity regardless of doctrinal persuasion (1 Corinthians 12:12-14).
- The church is to serve people like Jesus served people (James 1:27; Matthew 25:45).
- Sex is a gift for marriage. Marriage is between one man and one woman (Matthew 19:4-6; Hebrews 13:4).
- Healing is made available by Jesus Christ (1 Peter 2:24).
- Jesus is coming again (Revelation 22:20).