WHAT WE BELIEVE
THE FALL OF MAN
We believe that Adam and Eve, the precursors of the entire human race, were created in the image of God; however, they disobeyed God and became sinners. Through Adam, all people inherited sin’s nature and consequences, and all are in need of a Redeemer (Genesis 1:27; Romans 5:12, 19).
THE PLAN OF REDEMPTION
We believe that Christ died for all of us while we were still sinners; He took the punishment for our sin. With His own blood, He purchased salvation and redemption for all who believe in Him
(John 3:16; Isaiah 53:5; Titus 2:14).
SALVATION THROUGH GRACE
We believe that salvation is totally an act of God’s grace that is accessed through faith in Jesus Christ. No person can be good enough to earn salvation, and “being good” does not contribute to receiving God’s love and favor
(Ephesians 2:8, 13).
REPENTANCE & ACCEPTANCE
We believe that, when people repent for their sins and accept Christ, they are justified through Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross. To repent means to be sorry for sins, but it also means to turn away from a sinful lifestyle. Accepting Christ means believing in Him as the only Savior. To be justified means being declared “not guilty” in regard to sin
(Romans 10:9-10; 1 John 1:9).
THE NEW BIRTH
We believe that the change that takes place in people when they are “born again” is very real. They receive righteousness through Jesus Christ, and they are empowered by the Holy Spirit; therefore, they should have new desires, interests and pursuits (John 3:3; 2 Corinthians 5:17).
DAILY CHRISTIAN LIFE
We believe that people who have been born again grow in sanctification—which means that they separate themselves from the value system of the world and embrace and live according to the values of the kingdom that Jesus proclaimed. As they do so, they increase in holiness, faith, power, prayer, love and service
(2 Corinthians 7:1).
EVANGELISM
We believe that evangelizing and making disciples is the primary “business” of the church; every hindrance to worldwide evangelism should be removed (James 5:20; Mark 16:15).
TITHING & OFFERING
We believe that tithing (giving 10 percent of earnings) and offerings (amounts determined by the individuals) are God’s instruments to carry on His ministry, spread the gospel, and release personal blessing
(Malachi 3:10; 1 Corinthians 16: 1, 2).
MODERATION
We believe that Christians should avoid excess and that their moderation should be obvious to others. Their commitment to Christ should be deep and sincere, but they should not indulge in or lead other people into extremes of fanaticism. Christians should be well thought of, balanced, humble and self-sacrificing, reflecting Christ’s grace and character in all areas of their lives (Colossians 3:12, 13; Philippians 4:5).
CHURCH RELATIONSHIP
We believe that it is essential for all believers to join with and become part of a congregation of other believers. It is important to worship together, observe the ordinances of the church, encourage and support one another, and work together to advance the Lord’s kingdom
(Hebrews 10:24, 25).
CIVIL GOVERNMENT
We believe that civil government is established by divine appointment; civil laws should be upheld at all times except when they are in opposition to the Word of God
(Romans 13:1-7).