Beliefs are not worth much unless they are translated into actions. Based on what the Bible teaches, we feel very strongly about the following seven practices:
1. Bible as our sole authority.
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Tim. 3:15-17 (NIV)
Since God’s Word is the only completely reliable and truthful authority, we accept the Bible as the manual for living. Our first question when faced with a decision is “What does the Bible say?” We practice Bible reading, Bible study, and Bible memorization. The Bible is the basis for all we believe.
2. Autonomy of each local church.
“He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church;” Col. 1:17-18 (NIV)
Christ is the recognized head of the church, not any person, group, or religious organization. While recognizing the value of associating or cooperating with other groups of Christians, we believe every local church should be self- governing and independent. We do not have any denominational affiliation. In relating to other congregations that we support, we encourage each congregation to determine it’s own direction.
3. Ministry of every Christian
“… Has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father … ” Rev. 1:6 (NIV)
“You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God.” 1 Pet. 2:9 (NIV)
The Bible teaches that every Christian is called to “full time” Christian service, regardless of his or her vocation. We practice the truth that every Christian is a minister by encouraging every member to find a place of service and ministry. By the Holy Spirit, every Christian has direct access to God through prayer and Bible reading.
4. Offering
“Now about the collection for God’s people… On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income…” 1 Cor. 16:1 (NIV)
“ God loves a cheerful giver.” 2 Cor. 9:6-11 (NIV) (read all the verses) “… your generosity will result in thanksgiving unto God.” 2 Cor. 9:11 (NIV)
5. Immersion
“Having been buried with him in baptism and raised with him through your faith in the power of God, who raised him from the dead. ” Col. 2:12 (NIV)
We practice baptism by immersion under water for the forgiveness of sins and to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.. Acts 2:38
6. Spirit-led living
We believe the only way possible to live the Christian life is by God’s power within us. So we seek to practice a daily dependence on God’s Spirit to enable us to do what is right. Philippians 2:13
7. Telling others about Christ
“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)
It is the responsibility of every Christian to share the Gospel with everyone. We practice personal sharing about Christ and inviting friends to church.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…” Matthew 28:19 (NIV)
8. Partaking of the Lord’s Supper
“ The Lord Jesus on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, ‘ This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.’ In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, ‘ This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this in remembrance of me. For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.’ … A. man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup.” 1 Cor. 11:23-28 (NIV)
