Scriptures- We believe the Bible (39 books of Hebrew Scriptures and 27 books of New Testament) is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in right relationships with God and man (2 Timothy 3:16). These scriptures are the stories, poems, letters, and descriptions about God and how He relates with mankind. They were written by real people in a real time in history and are relevant for our lives today.
God- We believe that God is one, eternally and simultaneously existing in three equal but separate persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Son- Jesus is God’s son who eternally exists in relationship to the Father. He became flesh and walked on earth in fulfillment of prophecies regarding the Messiah found in the Hebrew Scriptures. Jesus gave us a perfect example of how to live as we join with God in restoring relationships and reclaiming God’s kingdom principles on earth. His death and resurrection affirms His deity, it gives us hope for today, and it provides for our eternal future.
Holy Spirit- The Holy Spirit is the third person in the Trinity and works to direct and lead our lives. The Spirit helps us recognize our own shortcomings and need for God’s reconciliation in our lives. The Holy Spirit works to empower us to live out the gospel in our everyday lives.
Church- The church refers to the universal body (soma) of Christ that includes all those who choose to follow Jesus. The original use of the word church (εκκλησια) literally refers to an assembly that is loyal to Christ. We believe that our local gathering is one expression among thousands throughout the world and is not better than others, it simply reflects our unique personalities and passions. The corporate gatherings of the Church and the interaction of the followers of Christ serve as a glimpse of heaven.
Salvation- We believe that salvation comes as God’s gracious gift to us through our faith in Jesus (Ephesians 2:8-9). God desires that none should perish and that all people have the opportunity to be saved (2 Peter 3:9). God is the final judge in regards to salvation and has full ability to save whomever he chooses.
Eternity- We believe in an eternal existence after this life on earth. Those who are saved by God’s grace will spend eternity with God where there will be no more separation that comes as a result of our own sin.
Sin- Literally speaking, sin is the biblical description for not living up to God’s holiness. Our lack of holiness is what separates us from our Holy God. All sin can be forgiven through God’s unconditional gift of forgiveness.
We believe in unity in the essentials and freedom in non-essentials, and in all things, love.
