When it comes to doctrine, culture, and preferences, we take an open hand/closed fist approach.
Out of a loyalty to the teachings of Jesus, there are some things that we hold with a closed fist and cannot compromise on such as the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the doctrine of salvation by faith alone. On the other hand, where the Bible is silent or Christian orthodoxy can be legitimately debated, we hold these areas with an open hand and give freedom to conscience and wisdom.
We affirm traditional Christian orthodoxy as written in the Apostle’s, Nicene, and Chalcedonian Creeds. Additionally, you can reference the Gospel Coalition Confessional Statement for further detail of our beliefs. In addition, this is what we believe:
God is the Creator and Lord of the heavens and the earth. He has eternally existed in three persons: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. These three are equal in power and eternity and are one God. God is love.
Man is made in the image of God and we are the ultimate object of His creation. Although we have extraordinary potential for good, at some level we are all impacted by our disobedience towards God called “sin”. Our sin, of any magnitude, separates us from experiencing the love and presence of God.
We were created to exist forever and will either live eternally separated from God by sin, or in union with God through forgiveness and salvation. To be eternally separated from God is Hell. To be eternally in union with Him is eternal life. Heaven and Hell are places of eternal existence.
Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He entered this world fully God and fully man through a miraculous conception and virgin birth. His life is without sin, which allowed him to voluntarily offer himself as a sacrifice for our sins through death on a cross. He arose from the dead after three days to demonstrate His power over sin and death. He ascended to Heaven’s glory and will return again to earth to reign as King of kings, and Lord of lords.
Salvation is a gift from God to man and is received by faith. We can never make up for our sin by self-improvement or good works. We can only receive salvation from our sin by trusting in the death and resurrection Jesus Christ. Once we make our confession and commitment to Jesus Christ, all sins are forgiven, our relationship with God is established and eternal life begins.
The Holy Spirit is present in the world to make men aware of their need for Jesus Christ. He also lives in every follower of Christ from the moment of salvation. He provides the believer with power for living, understanding of spiritual truth, and guidance needed to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ. He gives all believers spiritual gifts used to draw them closer to Himself and build up the church. All gifts are in operation today and lead to a balanced community of believers.
Those who receive Jesus Christ make up the one true church. The church has been called to action through following the teachings of Jesus Christ. This calling includes, but is not limited to spreading the story of Jesus Christ, building up one another in our faith and being with and serving the poor, the lonely and the oppressed. We recognize believer’s baptism and the Lord’s Supper as scriptural means of proclaiming the changed life found in Christ.
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