The Bible (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Hebrews 4:12)
We believe that all 66 books of the Bible were written by men, under the divine inspiration of God. Because the Bible is inspired by God, it is truth without error, and is the sole authority for Christian living.
God (Deuteronomy 6:4)
We believe there is one living and true God, who is one in essence, while eternally existing in three distinct persons; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit each possessing the attributes of Deity.
Man (Genesis 1:26-27; Romans 1:18-32, 3:10-23)
We believe that mankind was created in the image of God to enjoy His fellowship and fulfill His purposes on earth. However, all mankind fell into sin, which separates us from God. Consequently, all people are spiritually dead and subject to the certainty of both physical and spiritual death, apart from faith in Jesus Christ.
Salvation (John 1:12, 3:16, 14:6; Ephesians 2:8-9)
We believe that salvation is a free gift from God, which can only be gained through faith in Jesus Christ. Each person must personally accept this gift, repent of sin, and place their faith in Jesus Christ. All who believe in Him are declared righteous by the Father on the grounds of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, being regenerated by the Holy Spirit.
The Church (Acts 2:41-47; Hebrews 10:24-25; 1 Corinthians 12-14)
Jesus Christ is the head of the Church. The body of Christ is made up of believers who are “born again” by the Holy Spirit, and instructed by the Scriptures to associate themselves in local churches and to carry out His mission in the world.
Leadership (1 Timothy 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-9; Acts 6:1-6)
Jesus Christ leads the local church through a combination of leaders, including Sr. Pastor, Elders, Deacons and ministerial staff who have been called, gifted, and appointed by Him. The qualifications of leaders are outlined in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. By seeking the mind of Christ, depending upon the Holy Spirit, and diligently examining the Word of God, leaders – under the direction of the Sr. Pastor – provide spiritual oversight and direction for the local Church.
Ordinances (Matt. 28:18-20; Romans 6:3-7; 1 Corinthians 11:23-29)
We believe that baptism is an essential testimony of faith for all who have accepted Jesus Christ as Savior. Baptism is a clear injunction of the Scriptures and outwardly expresses the inward reality of new life in Christ. The biblical method of baptism is immersion, as described in the New Testament and practiced in the early church.
The Lord’s Supper or communion is a memorial of Christ and His redemptive death. It is also an expression of our fellowship with one another. In communion, we are reminded of Christ’s first coming, and encouraged to look forward to His second coming. Self-examination and confession should precede participation in the Lord’s Supper.
The Future (Matthew 24-25; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18)
We believe the next great event of human history will be the personal return of Jesus Christ. This is the blessed hope for which all those who love Christ yearn. While the exact time of Christ’s return is unknown, it is imminent and certain.
KEEPING OUR FOCUS ON CHRIST
The authority and application of the Scriptures:
Scriptural Teaching
God has revealed Himself in this incredibly relevant, supernatural book called the Bible. Therefore, we do not want to miss anything He has to say about Himself or how we relate to Him. Our teaching is based upon the Word of God and everything taught should be measured by His standard alone.
The application of truth
Part of the Church’s mission is to provide opportunities for people to apply the truth to their lives and then live out that truth. The goal is to move the truth beyond something we know in our heads, to something we believe in our hearts, and live out daily.
The priority and power of relationships:
One mark of our maturity is the measure of our relational depth and integrity. We will not ignore conflict or relational problems, but will use them as a pathway to intimacy by learning to resolve conflict, forgive, and live in true committed friendships.
Genuine relational intimacy and significant spiritual growth are inseparable. God changes people and reveals Himself in the context of people learning to live life together.
The responsibility and importance of equipping:
The role of our teaching team is to equip every Christian to live life biblically, experience the joy of spiritual influence, and embrace the privilege of being used by God for a transcendent cause. Our teachers, elders, and pastoral staff are charged with the responsibility of rightly delivering the word of truth to those who desire to live their lives for Christ.
