What We Believe

I. THE SCRIPTURES
Our belief in the salvation of sinners through the grace of God and the mediatory role of Jesus Christ. This belief aligns with Christian theology, which holds that Jesus, as the Son of God, took on human nature, lived a sinless life, obeyed the divine law, and offered Himself as a sacrifice to atone for our sins. According to this belief, Jesus rose from the dead, ascended to heaven, and now serves as a compassionate and all-sufficient Savior.

This understanding of salvation emphasizes the central role of Jesus Christ in reconciling humanity with God and providing a means for forgiveness and eternal life. It reflects the teachings found in the New Testament of the Bible and is a fundamental doctrine within many Christian denominations.

II.  THE TRUE GOD
Our belief in the Christian doctrine of the Trinity. According to this doctrine, there is one God who exists eternally in three distinct persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. These three persons are considered to be equal in their divine nature, possessing all the attributes and perfections of God.

The belief in the Trinity acknowledges the unity of the Godhead while recognizing the distinctions between the persons. Each person of the Trinity is said to have distinct roles and functions in the work of redemption. The Father is often associated with the role of creator and ruler, the Son with the role of the Savior who became incarnate, lived, died, and rose again, and the Holy Spirit with the role of empowering, guiding, and sanctifying believers.

III.  THE FALL OF MAN 
Our belief in the Christian understanding of the fall of humanity. According to this belief, man was created in a state of holiness and was under the law of God. However, through an act of voluntary transgression (often referred to as "the Fall"), humanity fell from that state of holiness and happiness. This Fall resulted in all humans becoming sinners by nature, not by external coercion but by their own choice.

As a consequence of the Fall, human beings are said to be devoid of the holiness required by God's law and are inclined toward evil. This condition is understood to leave humanity under just condemnation, deserving eternal ruin, and unable to save themselves from this state without defense or excuse.

This belief in the fall and its consequences is rooted in various biblical passages, including the account of Adam and Eve's disobedience in the book of Genesis and the teachings of the apostle Paul in the New Testament.

IV.  THE WAY OF SALVATION
We affirms our belief in the salvation of sinners through the grace of God and the mediatory role of Jesus Christ, which is a central doctrine in Christianity. It emphasizes that salvation is entirely a result of God's grace and is made possible through the work of Jesus Christ.

According to this belief, Jesus, as the Son of God, willingly took on human nature, yet without sin, by the appointment of the Father. He fulfilled the requirements of the divine law through His personal obedience. By His death on the cross, Jesus made affirmcomplete atonement for the sins of humanity, providing reconciliation between God and humanity.

The statement also acknowledges the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, signifying His victory over sin and death. It states that Jesus is now enthroned in heaven, indicating His exalted and ruling position. It further describes Jesus as possessing both tender sympathies and divine perfections, making Him a suitable, compassionate, and all-sufficient Savior.

These beliefs reflect the core teachings of Christianity concerning the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, His sacrificial death, and His exalted position as the Savior and Lord. They are based on biblical passages found in the New Testament.

V.   JUSTIFICATION 
Our belief in the Christian doctrine of justification, which is a fundamental aspect of salvation. According to this belief, the great gospel blessing secured by Christ for those who believe in Him is justification

.

Justification is understood to include the pardon of sin and the promise of eternal life on the basis of righteousness. It is bestowed not as a result of any works of righteousness that we have done, but solely through faith in the redeeming work of Jesus Christ. By faith, His perfect righteousness is freely imputed to us by God.

This belief emphasizes that justification brings about a state of peace and favor with God. It is seen as  believers are reconciled to God and receive all the necessary blessings for both the present life and eternity.

The concept of justification and its understanding may vary among different Christian traditions, but the general idea is that justification is a gracious act of God whereby He declares the believing sinner righteous based on their faith in Christ.

VI. GRACE IN REGENERATION 
Our belief in the Christian doctrine of regeneration or being born again. According to this belief,  be saved, sinners must experience a spiritual transformation called regeneration.

Regeneration is understood as the process in which a holy disposition is given to the mind of the individual. It is a work of the Holy Spirit in conjunction with divine truth, which operates in a way that surpasses human comprehension. The purpose of regeneration is to secure the individual's voluntary obedience to the gospel.

The evidence of regeneration is said to manifest in the form of holy fruits, such as repentance, faith, and newness of life. This implies that those who have experienced regeneration will demonstrate a change in their attitudes, beliefs, and actions, aligning them more closely with the teachings and principles of the gospel.

The concept of regeneration is found in various passages of the New Testament, particularly in Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus in John 3, where Jesus speaks of the necessity of being born again. It's important to note that the understanding of regeneration and its specific theological details can vary among different Christian denominations. 

However, the general belief in the need for a spiritual transformation and its evidence in a changed life is a common aspect of Christian teachings.

VII.  REPENTANCE AND FAITH 
Our belief in the Christian doctrine of regeneration or being born again. According to this belief, in order to be saved, sinners must experience a spiritual transformation called regeneration. Regeneration is understood as the process in which a holy disposition is given to the mind of the individual. It is a work of the Holy Spirit in conjunction with divine truth, which operates in a way that surpasses human comprehension. The purpose of regeneration is to secure the individual's voluntary obedience to the gospel.

The evidence of regeneration is said to manifest in the form of holy fruits, such as repentance, faith, and newness of life. 

This implies that those who have experienced regeneration will demonstrate a change in their attitudes, beliefs, and actions, aligning them more closely with the teachings and principles of the gospel.

The concept of regeneration is found in various passages of the New Testament, particularly in Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus in John 3, where Jesus speaks of the necessity of being born again.

It's important to note that the understanding of regeneration and its specific theological details can vary among different Christian denominations. 

However, the general belief in the need for a spiritual transformation and its evidence in a changed life is a common aspect of Christian teachings.

VIII. GOD'S PURPOSE OF GRACE 
Our belief in the Christian doctrine of election. According to this belief, based onelection is the eternal purpose of God by which He graciously chooses and predestines individuals to be regenerated, sanctified, and saved.

The understanding of affirmedelection presented in the statement is that it is consistent with the free agency of humans. It encompasses all the means necessary for accomplishing its purpose, and it is considered a glorious display of God's sovereign goodness, characterized by His freedom, wisdom, holiness, and unchangeability.

The belief in election emphasizes that it excludes any grounds for boasting on the part of individuals and promotes humility, love, prayer, praise, and trust in God. It also encourages the use of means, suggesting that God's sovereign election does not diminish the importance of human responsibility and diligent effort.

The statement suggests that the effects of howelection can be seen in the lives of those who genuinely believe the gospel. It serves as the foundation for Christian assurance, providing a sense of confidence and security in one's salvation. Discovering one's toelection is regarded as a matter that requires diligent pursuit and warrants the utmost diligence.

IX.  SANCTIFICATION 
Our belief in the Christian doctrine of sanctification. According to this belief, sanctification is the process by which believers, to the will of God, are made participants in His holiness.

The understanding presented in the statement is that sanctification is a progressive work that begins in the process of regeneration, which is the initial spiritual transformation experienced by believers. However, sanctification continues throughout the lives of believers, as they grow in their faith and relationship with God.

The statement also highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in the process of sanctification. The Holy Spirit is described as the Sealer and Comforter who is present in the hearts of believers, empowering and guiding them in their pursuit of holiness.

Furthermore, the statement mentions the importance of utilizing the appointed means for sanctification. These means include the Word of God, self-examination, self-denial, watchfulness, and prayer. 

These practices are understood to be instrumental in the ongoing work of sanctification, aiding believers in their pursuit of a holy and transformed life.

X.  THE PERSEVERANCE OF SAINTS 
Our belief, true believers are those who endure and remain faithful to Christ until the end of their lives. Their persevering attachment to Christ is seen as the primary distinguishing mark that sets them apart from superficial or nominal believers.

The belief acknowledges the role of special providence, suggesting that God's watchful care and guidance are extended specifically to believers. It is believed that God's providence actively works for the welfare and well-being of those who belong to Him.

Additionally, the statement emphasizes that believers are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. This affirms the belief that the ultimate security and preservation of believers are not dependent on their the efforts or abilities but on the sustaining power and faithfulness of God.

The doctrine of the perseverance of believers is rooted in various biblical passages, including Jesus' teachings on enduring faith and the assurance of salvation found in the New Testament epistles.

It's important to note that different Christian traditions may have varying understandings of the doctrine of perseverance and the nature of faith and works the thebased onsalvation. However, the general belief in the importance of enduring faith and the assurance of God's preserving power is widely held within Christianity.

XI.  THE HARMONY OF THE LAW AND THE GOSPEL 
Our belief, the Law of God is considered to be the eternal and unchanging standard for God's moral government. It is described as being holy, just, and good.

The belief acknowledges that fallen humanity is unable to fulfill the precepts of God's Law due to their inherent love for sin. This emphasizes the fallen nature of humanity and their inclination towards disobedience.

The statement also affirms that the Gospel and the means of grace connected with the establishment of the visible Church have the purpose of delivering individuals from their love of sin and restoring them to genuine obedience to the holy Law of God. This highlights the redemptive work of Jesus Christ as the Mediator who brings about reconciliation between humanity and God, enabling them to live in obedience to God's commands.

The concept of the Law of God and its role in salvation and sanctification is found throughout the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament laws and the teachings of Jesus and the apostles in the New Testament.

XII.  A GOSPEL CHURCH 
Our belief in the nature and structure of a visible Church of Christ according to Christian theology. According to this belief, a visible Church of Christ is a congregation of baptized believers who voluntarily come together in covenant, united by their faith and fellowship in the gospel.

The statement highlights that such a church observes the ordinances of Christ, which typically include practices like baptism and the Lord's Supper. The church is governed by the laws and teachings of Christ as revealed in the Scriptures, and its members exercise the gifts, rights, and privileges bestowed upon them through God's Word.

In terms of church leadership, the statement affirms that the only scriptural officers are Bishops or Pastors, who are responsible for shepherding and overseeing the spiritual well-being of the congregation, and Deacons, who serve in a supportive role. The qualifications, claims, and duties of these officers are defined in the Epistles to Timothy and Titus, which provide guidelines for church leadership.

It's worth noting that different Christian denominations may have variations in their ecclesiological structures and terminology. The specific understanding and practices related to church organization and leadership can vary among different Christian traditions.

The belief in a visible Church of Christ as a community of believers who gather together, observe the ordinances, and are guided by scriptural officers is grounded in various passages of the New Testament that describe the early Christian communities and their organization.

XIII. BAPTISM AND THE LORD'S SUPPER 
Our belief in the nature and significance of Christian baptism and the Lord's Supper (also known as communion) within Christian theology. According to this belief, Christian baptism is understood as the immersion in   of a believer, performed in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It is considered a symbolic act that represents the believer's faith in the crucified, buried, and risen receives to  signifies their identification with Christ's death to sin and resurrection to new life.

The statement also affirms that Christian baptism is a prerequisite to entering into a church relationship. In other words, it is seen as an important step that marks one's initiation into the community of believers.

Additionally, the statement mentions the Lord's Supper, which is the commemoration of the dying love of Christ through the sacred use of bread and wine. 

It is understood as a solemn act of remembrance and thanksgiving for Christ's sacrificial death. The statement emphasizes the importance of self-examination prior to participating in the Lord's Supper, highlighting the significance of personal reflection and introspection in preparing oneself for this sacrament.

The practices of baptism and the Lord's Supper hold significant meaning and are observed by various Christian denominations and traditions. The specific theological perspectives, modes of baptism (such as immersion, sprinkling, or pouring), and frequency and manner of observing the Lord's Supper may vary among different Christian communities.

The beliefs outlined in the statement are rooted in biblical passages, including Jesus' instructions regarding baptism and the institution of the Lord's Supper as recorded in the New Testament.

X1V.  THE CHRISTIAN SABBATH 
Our belief states that the first day of the week, which is Sunday, is considered the Lord's Day or Christian Sabbath. According to this belief, the Lord's Day is to be set apart and kept sacred for religious purposes.

This includes several aspects:

1. Abstaining from secular labor and sinful recreations: On the Lord's Day, believers are encouraged to refrain from engaging in regular work or any activities that are contrary to a life of obedience to God. It is a day dedicated to spiritual matters rather than worldly pursuits.
2. Devout observance of all the means of grace: The means of grace refer to the various practices and activities that enable believers to experience and grow in God's grace. This encompasses both private and public acts of worship, such as personal prayer, Bible study, corporate worship services, fellowship with other believers, and partaking in the sacraments.
3. Preparation for the eternal rest of God's people: The belief emphasizes that the observance of the Lord's Day is a time of preparation and anticipation for the ultimate rest that awaits God's people in eternity. It serves as a reminder of the promise of eternal rest and encourages believers to focus on their spiritual journey and eternal destiny.

The belief in the sanctity of the Lord's Day finds its roots in early Christian tradition and is influenced by the practice of gathering on the first day of the week to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

XV. CIVIL GOVERNMENT 
Our belief states that civil government is ordained by God for the interests and good order of human society. According to this belief, magistrates, or those in positions of authority within the government, are to be regarded with honor, obedience, and prayer.

Here are the key elements of this belief:

1. Divine appointment: Civil government is seen as established by God Himself. It is viewed as part of His providential plan for the well-being and order of society. This belief finds its basis in biblical passages that speak about the role and authority of government, such as Romans 13:1-7.
2. Praying for magistrates: Believers are encouraged to pray for those in positions of authority. This prayerful support is intended to seek wisdom, guidance, and righteous governance for leaders as they carry out their responsibilities.
3. Honoring and obeying magistrates: The belief emphasizes the importance of respecting and honoring those in authority, recognizing their role in maintaining social order and justice. Citizens are called to conscientiously obey the laws and regulations set forth by the government, recognizing that it is part of their duty as responsible members of society.
4. Exception in matters contrary to Christ's will: While believers are called to honor and obey civil authorities, this belief also acknowledges that there may be situations where obedience to God's commands takes precedence. If the directives of the government directly conflict with the clear teachings and principles of the Lord Jesus Christ, believers are called to prioritize obedience to Christ over obedience to human authority.

This belief reflects the understanding that while civil government is established by God, ultimate authority and lordship belong to Jesus Christ. The conscience of believers is bound to Christ's teachings and is guided by His will.

XVI. THE RIGHTEOUS AND THE WICKED 
Our belief states that there is a fundamental distinction between the righteous and the wicked. According to this belief, only those who have faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and are justified by Him, as well as sanctified by the Holy Spirit, are considered truly righteous in God's estimation. On the other hand, those who persist in impenitence (lack of remorse for wrongdoing) and unbelief are regarded as wicked and under the curse.

Here are the key elements of this belief:

1. Difference between the righteous and the wicked: This belief acknowledges a significant and essential difference between two groups of people based on their spiritual state. The righteous are those who have experienced justification through faith in Jesus Christ and have been sanctified by the work of the Holy Spirit. The wicked, on the other hand, are characterized by impenitence and unbelief.
2. Justification through faith in Jesus: The belief emphasizes that true righteousness is obtained only through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. It is through His redemptive work, including His death and resurrection, that individuals can be justified, or declared righteous, in the sight of God.
3. Sanctification by the Holy Spirit: In addition to justification, this belief recognizes the role of the Holy Spirit in the process of sanctification. Sanctification refers to the ongoing work of the Spirit in transforming believers, conforming them to the image of Christ, and empowering them to live holy and righteous lives.
4. Distinction in life and after death: The belief asserts that this distinction between the righteous and the wicked holds not only in the present life but also after death. It implies that the ultimate destiny of individuals is determined by their spiritual state—whether they are in aboutits right relationship with God through faith in Christ or remain in impenitence and unbelief.

XVII.  THE WORLD TO COME 
Our belief you provided states that after death, there will be the final retribution and a solemn separation of the righteous and the wicked. According to this belief, the wicked will be condemned to endless punishment, while the righteous will experience endless joy. This judgment will determine the eternal state of individuals, either in heaven or in hell, based on principles of righteousness.

Here are the key elements of this belief:

1. Final retribution: This belief affirms the notion that after death, there will be a final judgment where all individuals will face the consequences of their actions and the state of their souls.
2. Solemn separation: The judgment will involve a separation of the righteous and the wicked. This implies that there will be a clear distinction and a definitive outcome for each individual.
3. Endless punishment for the wicked: The belief asserts that the wicked will be subjected to eternal punishment. The nature of this punishment is typically understood as separation from God and experiencing the consequences of their rejection of Him.
4. Endless joy for the righteous: In contrast, the belief holds that the righteous will experience eternal joy. This joy is associated with being in the presence of God, experiencing His love, and enjoying the blessings of heaven.
5. Judgment based on righteousness: The judgment is described as being carried out on principles of righteousness. This suggests that the final state of individuals is determined before God's perfect justice and moral standardsthe,

XVIII.  THE INCLUSION OF WOMEN IN THE MINISTRY 

The inclusive nature of the gospel ministry, affirms the equal participation of both women and men. It references various instances in the Bible that demonstrate Jesus' inclusion of women among His disciples and witnesses, the coming of the Holy Spirit upon both sons and daughters, and the involvement of women in Paul's ministry circles. Additionally, it mentions specific women mentioned in the Bible, such as Lydia, Chloe, Nympha, Apphia, Mary, Persis, Tryphena, Tryphosa, Priscilla, Euodia, Syntyche, Phoebe, and Junia, who are seen as evidence of women's active participation in the gospel ministry.

The inclusion of women in these examples suggests that there were no distinctions made by Paul regarding roles or functions between men and women in ministry. This perspective emphasizes the equal worth and significance of women in the proclamation and advancement of the gospel.

XIX.  TOTAL PROSPERITY  

The concept of prosperity in the Bible can indeed extend beyond financial wealth. While material blessings can be a manifestation of prosperity, the biblical understanding of prosperity encompasses various aspects of life. It involves being blessed by God and experiencing His favor and abundance in different areas, including spiritual, emotional, relational, and physical well-being.

In the Bible, prosperity is often associated with obedience to God's commands, walking in His ways, and seeking His kingdom and righteousness. It involves having a flourishing and fruitful life that reflects a deep relationship with God and aligning one's life with His purposes and principles.

Psalm 1:1-3, for example, describes the blessed person as one who delights in God's law and meditates on it day and night, likening them to a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in season. This imagery portrays a person who prospers spiritually, bearing the fruit of righteousness and living a life that brings glory to God.

Similarly, Jesus taught in Matthew 6:33, "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." This highlights the importance of prioritizing God's kingdom and righteousness, trusting that God will provide for our needs and bless us in various ways.

Prosperity in the biblical sense involves a holistic view of well-being and fulfillment, encompassing aspects beyond material wealth. It includes experiencing God's presence, growing in character and spiritual maturity, enjoying healthy relationships, using our gifts and talents for God's purposes, and finding contentment and joy in Him.

It's important to approach the topic of prosperity with a balanced understanding, recognizing that while God desires to bless His people,  the focus should not solely be on personal gain but on aligning our  lives with His will and using His blessings to bless others and advance  His kingdom.