TRUTHS THAT SHAPE AND DEFINE US
Based on Biblical principles and inductive methods of interpretation, we have developed certain “truths” that shape and define us as a church. Although we understand that these “truths” are open to different interpretations by godly men and women, we felt it good to share our heart concerning some of these areas. It gives a little better picture as to who we are and what we stand for. We believe, though, that it is possible to fellowship and worship together with godly men and women who disagree with us in some of these areas. As we mature in our faith we may modify and change these “truths”. We encourage each believer to do the same.
Gifts of Spirit
Within the church of God today there are differing positions over the question, “Are all the gifts mentioned in the New Testament valid for use in the church today?” We believe that some of the gifts (prophecy, tongues plus interpretation, healing) were sign gifts given to the Apostles to authenticate their ministry. These sign gifts are no longer needed today, and thus have ceased (I Corinthians 13:8-12).
Jesus’ Return
The timing of Jesus’ return has been debated by Christians practically ever since Jesus ascended into heaven. We believe that “no man knows the time or date” (Matthew 24:36) and that the full answer to the question will be left until Christ returns. As we read and interpret Scripture it is our belief that God does allow us to know that the next great event in history will be the return of Jesus Christ to the clouds to “catch up” all believers. This “imminent” return of Christ is designed to sober and encourage us (I Thessalonians 4:13-5:11). Often this position is referred to as being “Pre-Tribulational”. We also consider ourselves to be Pre-millenialists.
The Church
Besides our other statements concerning the church, we believe that the church began with Pentecost, after the ascension of Jesus into heaven and will continue until the coming of Jesus at the rapture (I Thessalonians 4:13-18). We believe in a dispensational approach to Bible study.
Immersion
We recognize that many believers differ on the mode of baptism. It is our belief that baptism is a symbol and declaration of what Christ has accomplished in our lives. Immersion in water seems to be the best picture of the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ and is the mode that we use.
Church Government
God has directed the church of God to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ and build up believers. How we choose to do that, especially concerning the government of our local churches, is left up to us to decide. We have decided that in the multitude of counselors there is wisdom (Proverbs 15:22; 24:6) and have set up a congregational form of government. Within that framework we recognize that God has given us pastors to direct and guide us so that we remain faithful to the Word of God (Ephesians 4:11-16). It is our desire to work together to accomplish the responsibilities that God has given us.
Based on Biblical principles and inductive methods of interpretation, we have developed certain “truths” that shape and define us as a church. Although we understand that these “truths” are open to different interpretations by godly men and women, we felt it good to share our heart concerning some of these areas. It gives a little better picture as to who we are and what we stand for. We believe, though, that it is possible to fellowship and worship together with godly men and women who disagree with us in some of these areas. As we mature in our faith we may modify and change these “truths”. We encourage each believer to do the same.
Gifts of Spirit
Within the church of God today there are differing positions over the question, “Are all the gifts mentioned in the New Testament valid for use in the church today?” We believe that some of the gifts (prophecy, tongues plus interpretation, healing) were sign gifts given to the Apostles to authenticate their ministry. These sign gifts are no longer needed today, and thus have ceased (I Corinthians 13:8-12).
Jesus’ Return
The timing of Jesus’ return has been debated by Christians practically ever since Jesus ascended into heaven. We believe that “no man knows the time or date” (Matthew 24:36) and that the full answer to the question will be left until Christ returns. As we read and interpret Scripture it is our belief that God does allow us to know that the next great event in history will be the return of Jesus Christ to the clouds to “catch up” all believers. This “imminent” return of Christ is designed to sober and encourage us (I Thessalonians 4:13-5:11). Often this position is referred to as being “Pre-Tribulational”. We also consider ourselves to be Pre-millenialists.
The Church
Besides our other statements concerning the church, we believe that the church began with Pentecost, after the ascension of Jesus into heaven and will continue until the coming of Jesus at the rapture (I Thessalonians 4:13-18). We believe in a dispensational approach to Bible study.
Immersion
We recognize that many believers differ on the mode of baptism. It is our belief that baptism is a symbol and declaration of what Christ has accomplished in our lives. Immersion in water seems to be the best picture of the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ and is the mode that we use.
Church Government
God has directed the church of God to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ and build up believers. How we choose to do that, especially concerning the government of our local churches, is left up to us to decide. We have decided that in the multitude of counselors there is wisdom (Proverbs 15:22; 24:6) and have set up a congregational form of government. Within that framework we recognize that God has given us pastors to direct and guide us so that we remain faithful to the Word of God (Ephesians 4:11-16). It is our desire to work together to accomplish the responsibilities that God has given us.