Core Doctrines
Grace Community Church (GCC) is a church under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Therefore, we are committed to contending for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints (Jude 1:3). The seven core doctrines within the GCC Statement of Faith represent what we believe to be core elements of biblical teaching. We expect all members of Grace Community Church to affirm these doctrines. Below we provide a list of our core doctrines followed by a detailed explanation of each core belief.
Doctrinal Distinctives
In addition to the core doctrines found within the GCC Statement of Faith, there are also some doctrinal distinctives. These doctrinal distinctives reflect what distinguishes GCC from other churches who would also affirm the core doctrines. These distinctives indelibly shape the way that GCC is led and the direction the church is headed. We do not expect all members to embrace all aspects of these distinctives, but members should expect that the distinctives will be maintained in all ministry environments at GCC, and members may not teach contrary to them.
Seven Core Doctrines
1. God has made Himself known to the world in creation, through the Scriptures, and through the person of Jesus Christ.
Concerning Scriptures
We believe that God has revealed Himself to man in three primary ways: (1) through nature and conscience, which reveal His existence, power and glory; (2) through the Bible, which describes His character of grace and His program of redemption for man (the Bible has been completed and is the only written revelation from God); and (3) through Jesus Christ, His Son (John 14:9; Acts 1:1-3; Hebrews 1:1-3).
The sixty-six books of the Bible were written by a process of dual authorship in which the Holy Spirit superintended the human authors (using their individual personalities and different styles of writing), so that they composed and recorded without error God's Word to man in the original manuscripts. These books contain the believer's only infallible rules of faith and practice. The extent of divine inspiration of Scripture goes equally and fully to all parts of the writings: historical, poetical, doctrinal and prophetical (Deuteronomy 4:2; Psalm 19:1-6; John 20:30-31; Acts 14:17; Romans 1:19-20; 1 Thessalonians 2:13-17; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16-17; Hebrews 4:12; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Revelation 22:18-19).
The sixty-six books of the Bible were written by a process of dual authorship in which the Holy Spirit superintended the human authors (using their individual personalities and different styles of writing), so that they composed and recorded without error God's Word to man in the original manuscripts. These books contain the believer's only infallible rules of faith and practice. The extent of divine inspiration of Scripture goes equally and fully to all parts of the writings: historical, poetical, doctrinal and prophetical (Deuteronomy 4:2; Psalm 19:1-6; John 20:30-31; Acts 14:17; Romans 1:19-20; 1 Thessalonians 2:13-17; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16-17; Hebrews 4:12; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Revelation 22:18-19).
2. There is one God eternally existing as one essence and three distinct persons: God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit, each of whom is fully God, yet there is one God.
Concerning God
We believe there is but one living and true God Who is infinite, eternal and unchangeable in His being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness and truth. He is absolutely separate from the world as its Creator, yet everywhere present in the world as the upholder of all things. We further believe that God is One in essence, but eternally existent in three persons: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, each of Whom has precisely the same nature, attributes and perfections, and is worthy of precisely the same worship, confidence and obedience (Genesis 1:26; Deuteronomy 6:4; Psalm 139:8; Isaiah 45:5-7; Matthew 28:19; Mark 10:18; John 4:24; Acts 17:24-29; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Ephesians 4:6).
God The Father
We believe that God the Father orders and disposes all things according to His own purpose and grace. As the absolute and highest Ruler in the universe, "the Most High" and the "Holy One", He is sovereign in creation, providence and redemption. He created the universe apart from pre-existing materials and without means. He has decreed for His Own glory all things that come to pass and continues to direct and govern all creatures and events. He does those things without being the author or approver of sin, nor does He remove the accountability of morally intelligent creatures: men and angels. He relates to all men who come to Him through Jesus Christ as their Heavenly Father and bestows on them the full rights of son-ship (Genesis 14:18-20; 1 Chronicles 29:11; Psalm 103:19,145:8-9; Isaiah 40:25-26; John 1:18; Romans 11:33; 1 Corinthians 8:6; Ephesians 1:3-6; 3:9; Hebrews 4:13; 1 Peter 1:17).
God The Son
We believe that Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God and the virgin-born Son of Man who participated in the creation of the world and was incarnated as the God-Man to reveal God, redeem men and rule over God's kingdom just as God the Father purposed beforehand (Psalm 2:7-9; Isaiah 7:14; 9:6; John 1:1,3,18,19; 10:36; Ephesians 1:3-14; Colossians 1:16).
We believe that in the incarnation He surrendered nothing of the divine essence, either in degree or kind, all the while voluntarily limiting the manifestation of the divine attributes forming this essence. He was fully man and also fully God; He was without sin as to nature, unable to sin in principle and did not sin in fact (John 1:14,29; 8:46; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Philippians 2:5-11; Colossians 2:9; Hebrews 4:15; 7:26; 1 Peter 2:21-24). By His sinless life, miraculous ministry, substitutionary death and efficacious resurrection, He satisfied divine justice concerning sin (Matthew 11:2-6; 12:28; Romans 3:24-26; 2 Corinthians 5:19; Hebrews 1:3; 10:5-10; 1 John 2:2, 4:10). In the resurrection of Christ from the grave, God confirmed the deity of Christ and accepted the atoning work of Christ on the cross, by raising Him bodily from death as a guarantee of the future resurrection-to-life of all believers (Job 19:25-27; Matthew 28:6; John 14:19; Acts 2:30-31; Romans 1:4; 4:25; 6:5-10; 1 Corinthians 15:20; Revelation 1:17-18). After His Ascension to the Father's right hand, Jesus sent the Holy Spirit from the Father at Pentecost as a like companion to Himself for purposes of assuming the care and keeping of His own. Throughout this age Christ is seated at the Father's side performing the intercessory aspect of His High Priestly work for believers (John 15:26; Acts 2:33; Hebrews 7:25; 10:12; 1 Peter 3:22). In relationship to man, Christ is the only mediator between God and man; the Head of His body, the Church; the coming universal King who will reign on the throne of David. He is both the final rewarder of those who come to Him by faith and the final judge of all who reject Him (Isaiah 53:10; Luke 1:31,33; John 5:27-29; Romans 14:10-12; 1 Corinthians 3:11-15; Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:18; 1 Timothy 3:5; Hebrews 7:25; Revelation 20:11-15; 22:12).
God The Holy Spirit
We believe that the work of the Holy Spirit is to execute the divine will within the world of men. We affirm His sovereign activity in creation, the incarnation, the written revelation and the work of salvation (Genesis 1:2; John 3:5-7; 2 Peter 1:20-21). The work of the Holy Spirit in this church age began at Pentecost when He came from the Father, as promised by Jesus, to initiate and complete the building of the Church, the Body of Christ. The broad scope of this special divine activity includes convicting the world of sin, glorifying the Lord Jesus Christ and transforming believers into the likeness of Christ (John 14:16-17; 15:26; 16:7-11; Acts 1:5; 2:4; 1 Corinthians 12:13; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Ephesians 2:22). His work in believers includes regeneration, baptizing into the body of Christ, indwelling, sanctifying, instructing, empowering for service and preserving to the day of Christ. We believe that He alone administers spiritual gifts to the church, not to glorify Himself or the believer, but to glorify Christ and implement His work of redeeming the lost and building up believers in the faith (John 3:5-7; 16:1-16; Romans 8:2; 1 Corinthians 2:12-3:2; 6:19-20; 12:4-13; Ephesians 1:13-14; 2 Thessalonians 2:13).
God The Father
We believe that God the Father orders and disposes all things according to His own purpose and grace. As the absolute and highest Ruler in the universe, "the Most High" and the "Holy One", He is sovereign in creation, providence and redemption. He created the universe apart from pre-existing materials and without means. He has decreed for His Own glory all things that come to pass and continues to direct and govern all creatures and events. He does those things without being the author or approver of sin, nor does He remove the accountability of morally intelligent creatures: men and angels. He relates to all men who come to Him through Jesus Christ as their Heavenly Father and bestows on them the full rights of son-ship (Genesis 14:18-20; 1 Chronicles 29:11; Psalm 103:19,145:8-9; Isaiah 40:25-26; John 1:18; Romans 11:33; 1 Corinthians 8:6; Ephesians 1:3-6; 3:9; Hebrews 4:13; 1 Peter 1:17).
God The Son
We believe that Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God and the virgin-born Son of Man who participated in the creation of the world and was incarnated as the God-Man to reveal God, redeem men and rule over God's kingdom just as God the Father purposed beforehand (Psalm 2:7-9; Isaiah 7:14; 9:6; John 1:1,3,18,19; 10:36; Ephesians 1:3-14; Colossians 1:16).
We believe that in the incarnation He surrendered nothing of the divine essence, either in degree or kind, all the while voluntarily limiting the manifestation of the divine attributes forming this essence. He was fully man and also fully God; He was without sin as to nature, unable to sin in principle and did not sin in fact (John 1:14,29; 8:46; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Philippians 2:5-11; Colossians 2:9; Hebrews 4:15; 7:26; 1 Peter 2:21-24). By His sinless life, miraculous ministry, substitutionary death and efficacious resurrection, He satisfied divine justice concerning sin (Matthew 11:2-6; 12:28; Romans 3:24-26; 2 Corinthians 5:19; Hebrews 1:3; 10:5-10; 1 John 2:2, 4:10). In the resurrection of Christ from the grave, God confirmed the deity of Christ and accepted the atoning work of Christ on the cross, by raising Him bodily from death as a guarantee of the future resurrection-to-life of all believers (Job 19:25-27; Matthew 28:6; John 14:19; Acts 2:30-31; Romans 1:4; 4:25; 6:5-10; 1 Corinthians 15:20; Revelation 1:17-18). After His Ascension to the Father's right hand, Jesus sent the Holy Spirit from the Father at Pentecost as a like companion to Himself for purposes of assuming the care and keeping of His own. Throughout this age Christ is seated at the Father's side performing the intercessory aspect of His High Priestly work for believers (John 15:26; Acts 2:33; Hebrews 7:25; 10:12; 1 Peter 3:22). In relationship to man, Christ is the only mediator between God and man; the Head of His body, the Church; the coming universal King who will reign on the throne of David. He is both the final rewarder of those who come to Him by faith and the final judge of all who reject Him (Isaiah 53:10; Luke 1:31,33; John 5:27-29; Romans 14:10-12; 1 Corinthians 3:11-15; Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:18; 1 Timothy 3:5; Hebrews 7:25; Revelation 20:11-15; 22:12).
God The Holy Spirit
We believe that the work of the Holy Spirit is to execute the divine will within the world of men. We affirm His sovereign activity in creation, the incarnation, the written revelation and the work of salvation (Genesis 1:2; John 3:5-7; 2 Peter 1:20-21). The work of the Holy Spirit in this church age began at Pentecost when He came from the Father, as promised by Jesus, to initiate and complete the building of the Church, the Body of Christ. The broad scope of this special divine activity includes convicting the world of sin, glorifying the Lord Jesus Christ and transforming believers into the likeness of Christ (John 14:16-17; 15:26; 16:7-11; Acts 1:5; 2:4; 1 Corinthians 12:13; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Ephesians 2:22). His work in believers includes regeneration, baptizing into the body of Christ, indwelling, sanctifying, instructing, empowering for service and preserving to the day of Christ. We believe that He alone administers spiritual gifts to the church, not to glorify Himself or the believer, but to glorify Christ and implement His work of redeeming the lost and building up believers in the faith (John 3:5-7; 16:1-16; Romans 8:2; 1 Corinthians 2:12-3:2; 6:19-20; 12:4-13; Ephesians 1:13-14; 2 Thessalonians 2:13).
3. All humanity is created in the image of God and possesses intrinsic dignity and worth.
Concerning Humanity
We believe that God created Adam directly and immediately in the image of God, free from sin. He was created with a rational nature, great intelligence and a moral responsibility to God. From Adam's rib, God created Eve in the image of God, also free from sin and equal to Adam in rational nature, great intelligence and moral responsibility to God. Both Adam and Eve were created in God's image, equal before God as persons, yet distinct in their manhood and womanhood, and in their God-ordained masculine and feminine roles. (Genesis 1:26-28; 2:15-25; James 3:9).
Adam and Eve were originally created with the divine intention that they and their descendants should glorify God, worship Him, enjoy His fellowship and fulfill His will and purposes on earth (Genesis 1:26-30; Isaiah 43:7; John 4:23-24; Colossians 1:16; Revelation 4:11).
We believe that God created Adam directly and immediately in the image of God, free from sin. He was created with a rational nature, great intelligence and a moral responsibility to God. From Adam's rib, God created Eve in the image of God, also free from sin and equal to Adam in rational nature, great intelligence and moral responsibility to God. Created in God's image, both Adam and Eve were intentionally designed in two distinct and complementary biological sexes: male and female, equal before God as persons, yet distinct in their manhood and womanhood, and in their God-ordained masculine and feminine roles. (Genesis 1:26-28; 2:15-25; James 3:9).
Adam and Eve were originally created with the divine intention that they and their descendants should glorify God, worship Him, enjoy His fellowship and fulfill His will and purposes on earth (Genesis 1:26-30; Isaiah 43:7; John 4:23-24; Colossians 1:16; Revelation 4:11).
We believe that God created Adam directly and immediately in the image of God, free from sin. He was created with a rational nature, great intelligence and a moral responsibility to God. From Adam's rib, God created Eve in the image of God, also free from sin and equal to Adam in rational nature, great intelligence and moral responsibility to God. Created in God's image, both Adam and Eve were intentionally designed in two distinct and complementary biological sexes: male and female, equal before God as persons, yet distinct in their manhood and womanhood, and in their God-ordained masculine and feminine roles. (Genesis 1:26-28; 2:15-25; James 3:9).
4. Sin has fractured all things, leaving the world in desperate need of salvation.
Concerning Sin
We believe that the angels were all created simultaneously by God as a great host of sinless spirit-beings, most of whom kept their first condition of holiness and presently worship God and serve His purposes (Psalm 33:6,9; 148:2-5; Matthew 26.53; Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:13-14).
One of the angels, Lucifer, fell through the sin of pride (thereby becoming Satan) and influenced a large company of angels to follow him, who are known as demons (Isaiah 14:12-17; James 2:19; 2 Peter 2:4). Satan and the demons attempt to subvert and supplant the work of God. By a subtle suggestion, Satan influenced the moral fall of Adam and Eve, thereby subjecting them and all mankind to his own power (Genesis 3:1-7; Job 1:12; 2:6; Ezekiel 28:12-19; John 8:44; 2 Corinthians 4:3-4; Ephesians 2:2). Through the temptation of Satan, Adam and Eve subsequently fell into sin by a voluntary act of personal disobedience to the revealed will of God . The fall of Adam and Eve was an historical and non-repeatable act, the effects of which are transmitted to all people of all ages with the sole exception of Jesus Christ. Thus, all people are sinners by divine pronouncement, nature and deed.
As a consequence of the fall of man and his own personal sin, man became subject to the wrath of God, inherently corrupt, and incapable of choosing or doing that which is acceptable to God apart from divine grace. This depravity is radical and pervasive. It extends to the mind, will, body and affections. Unregenerate humanity lives under the dominion of sin and Satan. He is at enmity with God, hostile toward and hateful of God. Thus, he is hopelessly lost apart from the salvation which is in the Lord Jesus Christ (Genesis 2:16-17; 3:1-19; 1 Timothy 2:13-14; John 3:36; Romans 3:23; 6:23; Psalm 14:1-3;
Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 2:23; 5:12-19; Eph. 2:1-3; James 2:10; 1 Corinthians 2:14; Ephesians 2:1-3; 1 John 1:8).
Satan continues as the enemy of God and the accuser of God's people and persistently seeks to counterfeit the works and truth of God (2 Corinthians 2:10-11; 11:13-15; Ephesians 6:12,16; 1 Peter 5:8; Revelation 12:10). Nevertheless, Satan remains subject to God's power and is able to do only that which accords with God's ultimate purpose (Job 1:12, 2:6; James 4:7, 1 John 4:4; Jude 9).
The believer in Christ is in a spiritual warfare with Satan and the forces of darkness. In order for the Christian to be successful in this warfare, he must wear the spiritual armor described in Ephesians 6:10-18 and must stand firm with all of the armor in place.
One of the angels, Lucifer, fell through the sin of pride (thereby becoming Satan) and influenced a large company of angels to follow him, who are known as demons (Isaiah 14:12-17; James 2:19; 2 Peter 2:4). Satan and the demons attempt to subvert and supplant the work of God. By a subtle suggestion, Satan influenced the moral fall of Adam and Eve, thereby subjecting them and all mankind to his own power (Genesis 3:1-7; Job 1:12; 2:6; Ezekiel 28:12-19; John 8:44; 2 Corinthians 4:3-4; Ephesians 2:2). Through the temptation of Satan, Adam and Eve subsequently fell into sin by a voluntary act of personal disobedience to the revealed will of God . The fall of Adam and Eve was an historical and non-repeatable act, the effects of which are transmitted to all people of all ages with the sole exception of Jesus Christ. Thus, all people are sinners by divine pronouncement, nature and deed.
As a consequence of the fall of man and his own personal sin, man became subject to the wrath of God, inherently corrupt, and incapable of choosing or doing that which is acceptable to God apart from divine grace. This depravity is radical and pervasive. It extends to the mind, will, body and affections. Unregenerate humanity lives under the dominion of sin and Satan. He is at enmity with God, hostile toward and hateful of God. Thus, he is hopelessly lost apart from the salvation which is in the Lord Jesus Christ (Genesis 2:16-17; 3:1-19; 1 Timothy 2:13-14; John 3:36; Romans 3:23; 6:23; Psalm 14:1-3;
Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 2:23; 5:12-19; Eph. 2:1-3; James 2:10; 1 Corinthians 2:14; Ephesians 2:1-3; 1 John 1:8).
Satan continues as the enemy of God and the accuser of God's people and persistently seeks to counterfeit the works and truth of God (2 Corinthians 2:10-11; 11:13-15; Ephesians 6:12,16; 1 Peter 5:8; Revelation 12:10). Nevertheless, Satan remains subject to God's power and is able to do only that which accords with God's ultimate purpose (Job 1:12, 2:6; James 4:7, 1 John 4:4; Jude 9).
The believer in Christ is in a spiritual warfare with Satan and the forces of darkness. In order for the Christian to be successful in this warfare, he must wear the spiritual armor described in Ephesians 6:10-18 and must stand firm with all of the armor in place.
5. Salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone.
Concerning Salvation
Elements
We believe that the salvation of man consists in the satisfaction of divine justice, the forgiveness of sins and reconciliation with God, the imputation of the righteousness of Jesus Christ, the gift of eternal life, the provision of every spiritual resource needed for life and godliness and the guarantee that those who are saved shall never perish (Isaiah 53:6,10; Jonah 2:9; John 10:27-29; 17:13; Romans 3:24; 5:8-9; 8:38-39; 2 Corinthians 5:18,19,21; Galatians 2:16; Ephesians 1:7; 2 Peter 1:2; 1 John 4:10).
Attainment
Salvation was purchased by Christ on the cross and is based upon the elective grace of God. Salvation is by grace through faith, apart from any virtue or work of man, through the instrumentality of the Word of God as applied by the Holy Spirit (John 1:12; 3:16; Acts 16:31; Romans 8:29-30; 9:14-24; 19:8-13; Ephesians 1:4-5; 2:1-10, 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; Hebrews 11:6).
Results
Salvation results in the forgiveness of sins for the Christian as the righteousness of Christ is imputed to him by faith. The Christian is crucified with Christ, buried, raised, and glorified with Him. There is no more condemnation or judgment for sin, and the believer's identity in Christ bestows on him all the glories of heaven, as well as the Father's great love (Romans 5:8; Galatians 2:20). The believer's lifestyle will be affected by the salvation experience; righteous living, good works, and the fruit of the Spirit are the result as the Christian submits to the control of the Holy Spirit in his life through the interaction of the Word of God. This process of edification is accomplished as the believer is conformed to the image of Christ by the ministry of the Holy Spirit, and it culminates in glorification at Christ's coming (John 5:24; 10:28; 14:15; Romans 8:13, 29-39; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Ephesians 2:10; 5:17-21; Philippians 2:12-13; Colossians 3:16; 2 Peter 1:4- 10; 1 John 3:2-3).
We believe that the salvation of man consists in the satisfaction of divine justice, the forgiveness of sins and reconciliation with God, the imputation of the righteousness of Jesus Christ, the gift of eternal life, the provision of every spiritual resource needed for life and godliness and the guarantee that those who are saved shall never perish (Isaiah 53:6,10; Jonah 2:9; John 10:27-29; 17:13; Romans 3:24; 5:8-9; 8:38-39; 2 Corinthians 5:18,19,21; Galatians 2:16; Ephesians 1:7; 2 Peter 1:2; 1 John 4:10).
Attainment
Salvation was purchased by Christ on the cross and is based upon the elective grace of God. Salvation is by grace through faith, apart from any virtue or work of man, through the instrumentality of the Word of God as applied by the Holy Spirit (John 1:12; 3:16; Acts 16:31; Romans 8:29-30; 9:14-24; 19:8-13; Ephesians 1:4-5; 2:1-10, 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; Hebrews 11:6).
Results
Salvation results in the forgiveness of sins for the Christian as the righteousness of Christ is imputed to him by faith. The Christian is crucified with Christ, buried, raised, and glorified with Him. There is no more condemnation or judgment for sin, and the believer's identity in Christ bestows on him all the glories of heaven, as well as the Father's great love (Romans 5:8; Galatians 2:20). The believer's lifestyle will be affected by the salvation experience; righteous living, good works, and the fruit of the Spirit are the result as the Christian submits to the control of the Holy Spirit in his life through the interaction of the Word of God. This process of edification is accomplished as the believer is conformed to the image of Christ by the ministry of the Holy Spirit, and it culminates in glorification at Christ's coming (John 5:24; 10:28; 14:15; Romans 8:13, 29-39; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Ephesians 2:10; 5:17-21; Philippians 2:12-13; Colossians 3:16; 2 Peter 1:4- 10; 1 John 3:2-3).
6. The Church is the body of Christ sent into the world to shine forth the glory of God.
Concerning The Church
Nature of the Church
We believe that the Holy Spirit unites all believers who have placed their faith in Christ alone as their Savior into one spiritual body, the church, of which Christ is the head. This body began on the day of Pentecost and will be completed at the coming of Christ for His own. In addition to the spiritual union and communion that enfolded the entire Body of Christ, the members of this one spiritual body are directed to associate themselves together in local assemblies or churches (Matthew 16:18; Acts 1:4-5; 2:26-47; 11:15; 1 Corinthians 12:13; Ephesians 1:22-23; 2:13-22; 3:4-6; 5:25-27; Colossians 1:18; Hebrews 10:25).
Mission of the Church
The mission of the church is to glorify God by worshiping God in spirit and in truth, by evangelizing the lost, by edifying and equipping the saints and by spiritually influencing the world (Psalm 95; Matthew 5:13-16; 28:18-20; John 4:23-24; Acts 1:8; Ephesians 4:11-16).
Gifts of the Church
To fulfill its God-ordained missions of worship, evangelism, edification and influence, the church has been given spiritual endowments. One order of gifts is that of gifted men, who are given by Christ Himself for the equipping of the saints for the work of this ministry. The second order of gifts is that of spiritual abilities, and each member of the body of Christ receives at least one such gift from the Holy Spirit. Each member must develop and employ his spiritual gift(s) for the church to accomplish its task (Romans 12:3-8; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; 27-31; 14:1-40; Ephesians 4:8-13; 1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6; 1 Peter 4:10-11).
Ordinances of the Church
Two ordinances have been committed to the local church: baptism and the Lord's Supper. Christian baptism is the immersion of the believer into water to symbolize the believer's identification with the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. The Lord's Supper was instituted by Christ for the commemoration of Him and His atoning death. These two ordinances of baptism and the Lord's Supper are to be observed until the return of the Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:16-20; Luke 22:19-20; Acts 2:41; 10:47-48; 1 Corinthians 11:23-29).
Church Discipline
The local church assembly is responsible for disciplining any of its members who begin to live in gross, overt, willing and habitual sin. If any member should persist in such sin, the church must follow the biblical guidelines to restore the person to repentance and fellowship. If he should refuse to cease sinning, he is to be cut off from the fellowship of the church (Matthew 18:15-17; 1 Corinthians 5:1-13).
We believe that the Holy Spirit unites all believers who have placed their faith in Christ alone as their Savior into one spiritual body, the church, of which Christ is the head. This body began on the day of Pentecost and will be completed at the coming of Christ for His own. In addition to the spiritual union and communion that enfolded the entire Body of Christ, the members of this one spiritual body are directed to associate themselves together in local assemblies or churches (Matthew 16:18; Acts 1:4-5; 2:26-47; 11:15; 1 Corinthians 12:13; Ephesians 1:22-23; 2:13-22; 3:4-6; 5:25-27; Colossians 1:18; Hebrews 10:25).
Mission of the Church
The mission of the church is to glorify God by worshiping God in spirit and in truth, by evangelizing the lost, by edifying and equipping the saints and by spiritually influencing the world (Psalm 95; Matthew 5:13-16; 28:18-20; John 4:23-24; Acts 1:8; Ephesians 4:11-16).
Gifts of the Church
To fulfill its God-ordained missions of worship, evangelism, edification and influence, the church has been given spiritual endowments. One order of gifts is that of gifted men, who are given by Christ Himself for the equipping of the saints for the work of this ministry. The second order of gifts is that of spiritual abilities, and each member of the body of Christ receives at least one such gift from the Holy Spirit. Each member must develop and employ his spiritual gift(s) for the church to accomplish its task (Romans 12:3-8; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; 27-31; 14:1-40; Ephesians 4:8-13; 1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6; 1 Peter 4:10-11).
Ordinances of the Church
Two ordinances have been committed to the local church: baptism and the Lord's Supper. Christian baptism is the immersion of the believer into water to symbolize the believer's identification with the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. The Lord's Supper was instituted by Christ for the commemoration of Him and His atoning death. These two ordinances of baptism and the Lord's Supper are to be observed until the return of the Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 28:16-20; Luke 22:19-20; Acts 2:41; 10:47-48; 1 Corinthians 11:23-29).
Church Discipline
The local church assembly is responsible for disciplining any of its members who begin to live in gross, overt, willing and habitual sin. If any member should persist in such sin, the church must follow the biblical guidelines to restore the person to repentance and fellowship. If he should refuse to cease sinning, he is to be cut off from the fellowship of the church (Matthew 18:15-17; 1 Corinthians 5:1-13).
7. Jesus Christ is returning to the world in the future to judge the living and the dead.
Concerning Last Things
The Intermediate State
We believe that at death the souls of the redeemed pass immediately into the presence of Christ and remain there in joyful fellowship with God until the first resurrection of their bodily resurrection unto life. At death, the souls of the unsaved descend immediately into Hades where they are kept under punishment until the second resurrection their bodily resurrection unto damnation (Luke 16:22-26; 23:43; 2 Corinthians 5:6-8; Revelation 20:11-15).
Future Events
The consummation of all things includes the future, physical, visible, personal and glorious return of Jesus Christ, the resurrection of the dead and the glorification of those alive in Christ, the judgment of the just and the unjust, and the fulfillment of Christ’s kingdom in the new heavens and the new earth.
Though Satan was judged at the cross, the sentence was not then executed. In the consummation, Satan, with his hosts and all those outside Christ, is finally separated from the benevolent presence of God, enduring eternal punishment (Genesis 3:15; Isaiah 14:12; Matthew 25:41; Luke 10:18; John 12:31; 1&11; Hebrews 2:14; 1 Timothy 3:6; Revelation 12:9; 20:7-15).
The righteous, in glorious bodies, will live and reign with Christ forever in the new heavens and the new earth, serving Him and giving Him unending praise and glory. Then the eager expectation of creation will be fulfilled, and the whole earth shall proclaim the glory of God, who makes all things new (Mark 9:43-48; 1 Corinthians 15:24-28; 2 Thessalonians 1:9; 2 Peter 3:10-13; Revelation 20:11-15; 21:1-4; 22:5,11).
We believe that at death the souls of the redeemed pass immediately into the presence of Christ and remain there in joyful fellowship with God until the first resurrection of their bodily resurrection unto life. At death, the souls of the unsaved descend immediately into Hades where they are kept under punishment until the second resurrection their bodily resurrection unto damnation (Luke 16:22-26; 23:43; 2 Corinthians 5:6-8; Revelation 20:11-15).
Future Events
The consummation of all things includes the future, physical, visible, personal and glorious return of Jesus Christ, the resurrection of the dead and the glorification of those alive in Christ, the judgment of the just and the unjust, and the fulfillment of Christ’s kingdom in the new heavens and the new earth.
Though Satan was judged at the cross, the sentence was not then executed. In the consummation, Satan, with his hosts and all those outside Christ, is finally separated from the benevolent presence of God, enduring eternal punishment (Genesis 3:15; Isaiah 14:12; Matthew 25:41; Luke 10:18; John 12:31; 1&11; Hebrews 2:14; 1 Timothy 3:6; Revelation 12:9; 20:7-15).
The righteous, in glorious bodies, will live and reign with Christ forever in the new heavens and the new earth, serving Him and giving Him unending praise and glory. Then the eager expectation of creation will be fulfilled, and the whole earth shall proclaim the glory of God, who makes all things new (Mark 9:43-48; 1 Corinthians 15:24-28; 2 Thessalonians 1:9; 2 Peter 3:10-13; Revelation 20:11-15; 21:1-4; 22:5,11).
Doctrinal Distinctives
Doctrinal Distinctive Concerning the Sanctity of Human Life
We believe that from the very moment of conception, the miracle at which point God creates life, and throughout the gestation period, God is at work in the womb bringing the embryo to fetal stages and then to birth. We believe that human life begins at conception and that the unborn child is a living human being, endowed by his or her Creator with divine dignity and the right to life. We believe abortion is murder, the unjustified taking of a human life, an attack against one's fellow man and a violation of God's creation. Abortions of pregnancies due to rape or incest are unjustified because the humanity and sanctity of the unborn child is still the constant and determinative reason for its right to live. Because life is sacred, we also reject the notion that abortion is acceptable for reasons of birth defects, gender selection, birth or population control, or the mental well-being of the mother. In the rare instance when continuing the pregnancy would result in the mother's death, we would respect the family's decision to preserve the mother's life as an act of self-defense.
For the same reasons, we believe that life continues to be sacred until a person's natural death. Suicide, assisted suicide, euthanasia, or the withholding of medically ordinary and necessary care are not compatible with the sacred value of human life. All of these represent the deliberate taking of a human life, and are therefore always wrong. A family's decision to withhold extraordinary medical technology from a person when that technology would not preserve life but prolong the process of dying is justifiable. Deliberations about such issues should be with a great sense of humility and any reasonable doubt should be resolved in favor of life. We believe that mental or physical disability in no way decreases the sacred value of a person's life. Therefore such disabilities should not be taken into account in life-or-death decisions.
(Psalm 139:13-16; Jeremiah 1:4-5; Luke 1:15; Luke 1:41-44; Proverbs 24:11-12; 2 Samuel 11:5; Genesis 9:5-7; Leviticus 19:14; John 9:1-7)
For the same reasons, we believe that life continues to be sacred until a person's natural death. Suicide, assisted suicide, euthanasia, or the withholding of medically ordinary and necessary care are not compatible with the sacred value of human life. All of these represent the deliberate taking of a human life, and are therefore always wrong. A family's decision to withhold extraordinary medical technology from a person when that technology would not preserve life but prolong the process of dying is justifiable. Deliberations about such issues should be with a great sense of humility and any reasonable doubt should be resolved in favor of life. We believe that mental or physical disability in no way decreases the sacred value of a person's life. Therefore such disabilities should not be taken into account in life-or-death decisions.
(Psalm 139:13-16; Jeremiah 1:4-5; Luke 1:15; Luke 1:41-44; Proverbs 24:11-12; 2 Samuel 11:5; Genesis 9:5-7; Leviticus 19:14; John 9:1-7)
Doctrinal Distinctive Concerning the Race and Racism
We affirm that all humans are made in the image & likeness of God with equal worth in his sight. We believe the Bible teaches that all human beings are descendants of Adam & Eve and that there is only one race, the human race. We believe that the Bible teaches that racism is the explicit or implicit attitude, belief, or practice that values one ethnic group and people over others.
We believe that racism dishonors God and is always sinful, morally wrong, socially destructive & humanly demeaning. We believe that God shows no partiality or favoritism, nor should we (Genesis 1:26–27, 5:1–2, 9:6; James 3:9, Genesis 3:20, 5:1–2; Acts 17:26, Deuteronomy 10:17, 2 Chronicles 19:7, Acts 10:34, Romans 2:11, Galatians 2:6, Ephesians 6:9, Colossians 3:25, 1 Peter 1:17, Proverbs 18:5, 24:23, 28:21; James 2:1–13; cf. Jude 16).
We believe that racism dishonors God and is always sinful, morally wrong, socially destructive & humanly demeaning. We believe that God shows no partiality or favoritism, nor should we (Genesis 1:26–27, 5:1–2, 9:6; James 3:9, Genesis 3:20, 5:1–2; Acts 17:26, Deuteronomy 10:17, 2 Chronicles 19:7, Acts 10:34, Romans 2:11, Galatians 2:6, Ephesians 6:9, Colossians 3:25, 1 Peter 1:17, Proverbs 18:5, 24:23, 28:21; James 2:1–13; cf. Jude 16).
Doctrinal Distinctive Concerning Marriage, Family and Sexuality
We believe marriage was the first institution designed by God. We believe the Bible teaches the covenant of marriage is sacred and life-long. The Bible makes it clear that marriage is a legally binding public declaration of commitment and a private consummation between one man and one woman, never between the same sex.
We believe that God created a man and a woman with equal worth but with differing roles and responsibilities in marriage. A husband is to love his wife as Christ loved the Church. A husband has the God-given responsibility to provide for, to protect and to lead his family. A wife is to submit herself graciously to the servant leadership of her husband even as the church willingly submits to the headship of Christ. She has the God-given responsibility to respect her husband and to be his helper in managing the household and nurturing the next generation.
Concerning the Family
We believe God is the originator of the family. It was established by God in His inaugural act of the marriage between a man and a woman. We believe the purpose of the family is to glorify and honor God by forming the spiritual, emotional, physical and economic foundation for individuals, the church and any society. Children, from the moment of conception, are a blessing and heritage from the Lord. Parents are to demonstrate to their children God's pattern for marriage. Parents are to teach their children spiritual and moral values and to lead them, through consistent lifestyle example and loving discipline, to make choices based on biblical truth. Children are to honor and obey their parents. (Deuteronomy 6:4-9, Titus 2:4-5, Psalm 78:5-8)
Concerning Singleness
We believe that marriage is not required of every man and woman. The single life, indeed, may enable certain individuals to live fully for the glory of God. (Genesis 1:24-28; Genesis 2:18-25, Malachi 2:14; Matthew 19:10, 1 Corinthians 7:32-34, Ephesians 5:22-6:4, Matthew 19:4-6)
Concerning Sexuality
We believe the Bible clearly states that the marriage covenant between one man and one woman is the only context for sexual intimacy. Heterosexuality is fundamental to the vitality
and even the existence of any society. We believe that the Bible condemns sexual promiscuity and perversions of various kinds, including homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexuality, incest, fornication, adultery and pornography. (Hebrews 13:4; Romans 1:24-28; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8)
We further affirm that the biological sex of every human is divinely determined at conception and manifested in human chromosomal structure and reproductive anatomy, and that gender identity is inherently connected to and derived from a person’s divinely created biological sex. This connection between a person’s biological sex and gender identity reflects divine intentionality and wisdom, not cultural convention or personal preference. We believe God's design for human flourishing includes living in harmony with one's biological sex as part of His divine plan.
We believe that God created a man and a woman with equal worth but with differing roles and responsibilities in marriage. A husband is to love his wife as Christ loved the Church. A husband has the God-given responsibility to provide for, to protect and to lead his family. A wife is to submit herself graciously to the servant leadership of her husband even as the church willingly submits to the headship of Christ. She has the God-given responsibility to respect her husband and to be his helper in managing the household and nurturing the next generation.
Concerning the Family
We believe God is the originator of the family. It was established by God in His inaugural act of the marriage between a man and a woman. We believe the purpose of the family is to glorify and honor God by forming the spiritual, emotional, physical and economic foundation for individuals, the church and any society. Children, from the moment of conception, are a blessing and heritage from the Lord. Parents are to demonstrate to their children God's pattern for marriage. Parents are to teach their children spiritual and moral values and to lead them, through consistent lifestyle example and loving discipline, to make choices based on biblical truth. Children are to honor and obey their parents. (Deuteronomy 6:4-9, Titus 2:4-5, Psalm 78:5-8)
Concerning Singleness
We believe that marriage is not required of every man and woman. The single life, indeed, may enable certain individuals to live fully for the glory of God. (Genesis 1:24-28; Genesis 2:18-25, Malachi 2:14; Matthew 19:10, 1 Corinthians 7:32-34, Ephesians 5:22-6:4, Matthew 19:4-6)
Concerning Sexuality
We believe the Bible clearly states that the marriage covenant between one man and one woman is the only context for sexual intimacy. Heterosexuality is fundamental to the vitality
and even the existence of any society. We believe that the Bible condemns sexual promiscuity and perversions of various kinds, including homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexuality, incest, fornication, adultery and pornography. (Hebrews 13:4; Romans 1:24-28; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8)
We further affirm that the biological sex of every human is divinely determined at conception and manifested in human chromosomal structure and reproductive anatomy, and that gender identity is inherently connected to and derived from a person’s divinely created biological sex. This connection between a person’s biological sex and gender identity reflects divine intentionality and wisdom, not cultural convention or personal preference. We believe God's design for human flourishing includes living in harmony with one's biological sex as part of His divine plan.
Doctrinal Distinctive Concerning the Organization and Leadership of the Church
The local assemblies of believers have been given the needed authority for administering that order, discipline, and worship which was appointed by Christ, the sovereign Head. The Bible designates elders and deacons as officers to serve under Christ and to oversee the assembly. In keeping with the biblical concept of differing roles for men and women, we believe certain governing and teaching roles are the
responsibility of men. The office of elder is assigned to and limited to men, as is the corporate preaching/ teaching pulpit ministry. Distinctions in masculine and feminine roles in the church are not based on differing value, dignity or worth, but on the biblical concept of male headship or leadership.
(Matthew 18:15-18; Acts 6:1-6; 1 Corinthians 14:40; Ephesians 4:11-12; 1Timothy 2:12; 3:1-13; 5:17; Titus 1:5-9; Hebrews 10:25; 1 Peter 5:1-5)
The New Testament describes the primary human leadership in the local church as consisting of a plurality of elders who teach, manage and provide servant leadership to the entire church body. Elders are identified by their character qualities and godly lifestyles. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, elders initiate, supervise and finalize the recognition of additional leaders, and they shape the process of decision-making in the church.
(Acts 6:1-6; 14:23; 15:1-35; 1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5)
responsibility of men. The office of elder is assigned to and limited to men, as is the corporate preaching/ teaching pulpit ministry. Distinctions in masculine and feminine roles in the church are not based on differing value, dignity or worth, but on the biblical concept of male headship or leadership.
(Matthew 18:15-18; Acts 6:1-6; 1 Corinthians 14:40; Ephesians 4:11-12; 1Timothy 2:12; 3:1-13; 5:17; Titus 1:5-9; Hebrews 10:25; 1 Peter 5:1-5)
The New Testament describes the primary human leadership in the local church as consisting of a plurality of elders who teach, manage and provide servant leadership to the entire church body. Elders are identified by their character qualities and godly lifestyles. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, elders initiate, supervise and finalize the recognition of additional leaders, and they shape the process of decision-making in the church.
(Acts 6:1-6; 14:23; 15:1-35; 1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5)
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