30 June 2010
Sufficiency of Scripture: The Bible is the final rule and authority in all matters of faith and practice. Therefore, we purpose to structure all that we do according to Scripture. (II Tim. 3:16) We endeavor to study the whole counsel of the Word of God in an expositional manner together.
Discipleship: The commission to the church is to make “disciples”, not simply “converts”. (Mat. 28:19-20; Col.1:28) We believe that all followers of Christ have the obligation to “entrust to others” what God has entrusted to them. (II Tim. 2:2) The family is the primary agent for effective discipleship and evangelism. Effective discipleship is measured by multi-generational faithfulness. (Deut. 5:4-9; Psalm 78:5-7)
Authentic Community: God has made us relational beings and the fullness of life is experienced when we are in proper relationships with Him and others in the body of Christ. This cannot be accomplished casually, but requires intentional commitment, transparency, and time together. Walking in genuine, Biblical love, characterized by both “truth and grace”, is our highest aim. The effectiveness of community is maximized in smaller settings. We see the healthy growth of the church to be accomplished through the proliferation of several, smaller church plants rather than fostering a mega, centralized group.
Biblically-based Ministry: God uses people and not programs. It is the members of the body who do the work of the ministry and not paid staff. More than at a church facility, the home should be the primary place of ministry.
Christ-centered Worship: We obey whom we worship. Worship is more than the weekly gathering, but is expressed in a life of humble obedience. (Rom.12:1) From that, we gather out of an overflow of that lifestyle for praying, preaching, giving, singing, and giving testimony to the praise and glory of Jesus Christ. (I Cor.14:26)
Biblical Manhood/Womanhood: We recognize that the differences between men and women are more than just biological. We embrace God’s design and role for men and women. Weak men translate to weak marriages, weak families, and a weak church; the converse is also true. We especially seek to challenge and encourage men to walk in their God-given roles and responsibilities. This provides the best environment for women to be able to celebrate their roles.
Environment of Faith: Recognizing that nothing good dwells in man apart from Christ, we walk in a manner where we count on God to be God. “Giftedness”, “proper form” and “human drive” cannot supply the lack of the power and presence of God. We depend on the life of Christ in us to give us life. (Gal.2:20) We accept God’s sovereignty over circumstances and look for Him to take the “ordinary” to make it “extraordinary” for His glory and our good as we love Him and walk according to His purposes. (Rom.8:28)