The Word of God

2 Timothy 3 – [16] All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, [17] that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

John 17 – [17] Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.

[Essential Beliefs: We believe that the Bible is the inspired, inerrant word of God, given by divine inspiration and authority. It is essential for teaching, correction, and training in righteousness, making believers complete and equipped for every good work. It is our ultimate and final authority on all things in this life.]

God is Father, Son and Holy Spirit

Matthew 3 – [13] Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. [14] John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” [15] But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. [16] And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; [17] and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”

Matthew 28 – [18] And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. [19] Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

2 Corinthians 13 – [14] The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

John 15 – [26] “But when the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness about me.

Genesis 1 – [26] Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.

[Essential Beliefs: We believe God is one God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, with each being fully God, co-equal and co-eternal, yet only one God. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit work together in perfect unity and harmony, fulfilling distinct roles in the work of creation, redemption, and sanctification. The baptism of Jesus and the Great Commission explicitly affirm this truth.]

God the Father

John 10 – [29] My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. [30] I and the Father are one.”

Matthew 3 – [16] And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; [17] and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”

Romans 11 – [33] Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! [34] “For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor?” [35] “Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?” [36] For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.

Isaiah 55 – [8] For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD. [9] For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.

Acts 17 – [24] The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man, [25] nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything.

[Essential Beliefs: We believe in God the Father, who is the sovereign Creator and Sustainer of all things. He is greater than all, possessing unsearchable wisdom and knowledge. His ways and thoughts are higher than human understanding, and He requires nothing from humanity, as He Himself gives life and breath to all.]

The Son – Jesus Christ

John 1 – [1] In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. [2] He was in the beginning with God. [3] All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made.

John 1 – [14] And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Colossians 1 – [15] He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. [16] For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. [17] And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.

John 17 – [1] When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, [2] since you have given him authority over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. [3] And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. [4] I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do. [5] And now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had with you before the world existed.

[Essential Beliefs: We believe that Jesus Christ is the eternal Word, who was with God and is God. He is the Creator of all things, and through Him all things were made. Jesus, the Son of God, became flesh and dwelt among us, revealing the glory of the Father, full of grace and truth. He is the image of the invisible God, preeminent over all creation, and in Him all things hold together. Jesus has been given authority over all flesh to grant eternal life, glorifying the Father and sharing in the eternal glory He had before the world existed.]

The Holy Spirit

John 14 – [25] “These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you. [26] But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.

Acts 1 – [8] But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

Act 2 – [37] Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” [38] And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 8 – [26] Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. [27] And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.

Galatians 5 – [22] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

Ephesians 1 – [13] In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, [14] who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory.

2 Peter 1 – [3] His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, [4] by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.

John 16 – [7] Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. [8]  And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: [9] concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; [10]  concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; [11]  concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.[12] “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. [13] When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. [14] He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. [15] All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.

[Essential Beliefs: We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Helper sent by the Father in the name of Jesus, who teaches and reminds believers of all that Jesus said. The Holy Spirit empowers believers to be witnesses to the ends of the earth, convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment, and intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. The Holy Spirit produces fruit in the lives of believers, sealing them as God’s own and guaranteeing their inheritance. Through the Spirit, believers partake in the divine nature, receiving all things that pertain to life and godliness.]

Man

Genesis 2 – [25] And the man and his wife were both naked and were not ashamed.

Genesis 3 – [6] So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate. [7] Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked. And they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loincloths. [8] And they heard the sound of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God among the trees of the garden. [9] But the LORD God called to the man and said to him, “Where are you?” [10] And he said, “I heard the sound of you in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked, and I hid myself.” [11] He said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten of the tree of which I commanded you not to eat?” [12] The man said, “The woman whom you gave to be with me, she gave me fruit of the tree, and I ate.” [13] Then the LORD God said to the woman, “What is this that you have done?” The woman said, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate.”

Genesis 3 – [17] And to Adam he said, “Because you have listened to the voice of your wife and have eaten of the tree of which I commanded you, ‘You shall not eat of it,’ cursed is the ground because of you; in pain you shall eat of it all the days of your life; [18] thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you; and you shall eat the plants of the field. [19] By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread, till you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; for you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” [20] The man called his wife’s name Eve, because she was the mother of all living. [21] And the LORD God made for Adam and for his wife garments of skins and clothed them. [22] Then the LORD God said, “Behold, the man has become like one of us in knowing good and evil. Now, lest he reach out his hand and take also of the tree of life and eat, and live forever—” [23] therefore the LORD God sent him out from the garden of Eden to work the ground from which he was taken. [24] He drove out the man, and at the east of the garden of Eden he placed the cherubim and a flaming sword that turned every way to guard the way to the tree of life.

Ephesians 2 – [11] Therefore remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh, called “the uncircumcision” by what is called the circumcision, which is made in the flesh by hands— [12] remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. [13] But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

Colossians 1 – [21] Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior.

Romans 3 – [9] What then? Are we Jews any better off? No, not at all. For we have already charged that all, both Jews and Greeks, are under sin, [10] as it is written: “None is righteous, no, not one; [11] no one understands; no one seeks for God. [12] All have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one.” [13] “Their throat is an open grave; they use their tongues to deceive.” “The venom of asps is under their lips.” [14] “Their mouth is full of curses and bitterness.” [15] “Their feet are swift to shed blood; [16] in their paths are ruin and misery, [17] and the way of peace they have not known.” [18] “There is no fear of God before their eyes.” [19] Now we know that whatever the law says it speaks to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be stopped, and the whole world may be held accountable to God. [20] For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin. [21] But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— [22] the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: [23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, [24] and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, [25] whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God’s righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. [26] It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. [27] Then what becomes of our boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? By a law of works? No, but by the law of faith. [28] For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law. [29] Or is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles also? Yes, of Gentiles also, [30] since God is one—who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith.

Jeremiah 17 – [9] The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? [10] “I the LORD search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds.”

[Essential Beliefs: We believe that humanity was created by God in His image, originally innocent and unashamed. However, through disobedience to God’s command, humanity fell into sin, resulting in separation from God and the introduction of pain, toil, and death. All humans are born into this state of sinfulness, alienated from God and deserving of His judgment.]

Salvation

Romans 1 – [16] For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. [17] For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.”

Romans 3 – [19] Now we know that whatever the law says it speaks to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be stopped, and the whole world may be held accountable to God. [20] For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin. [21] But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— [22] the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: [23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, [24]  and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, [25] whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God’s righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. [26] It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. [27]  Then what becomes of our boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? By a law of works? No, but by the law of faith. [28] For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law. [29] Or is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles also? Yes, of Gentiles also, [30] since God is one—who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith.

Romans 10 – [9] because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. [10] For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. [11] For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.” [12]  For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. [13] For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” [14] How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? [15] And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” [16] But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed what he has heard from us?” [17] So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.

John 16 – [7] Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. [8]  And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: [9] concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; [10]  concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; [11]  concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged. [12] “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.

Ephesians 2 – [8] For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, [9]  not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

Psalms 3 – [8]  Salvation belongs to the LORD; your blessing be on your people!

Revelation 7 – [9] After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, [10] and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!”

John 3 – [3] Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” [4] Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” [5] Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. [6]  That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.  [7]  Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ [8]  The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”

[We believe that salvation is a gift of God’s grace received through faith in Jesus Christ. It is not achieved by human effort or works but is granted to those who believe in their hearts and confess with their mouths that Jesus is Lord. Faith comes from hearing the message of Christ, and it is through this faith that individuals are justified and brought into a right relationship with God. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in convicting the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment, and in guiding believers into all truth.]

Resurrection

Matthew 28 – [5] But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. [6] He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. [7] Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.” [8] So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. [9] And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. [10] Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.”

Ephesians 1 – [19] and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might [20] that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, [21]  far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.

Ephesians 2 – [4] But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, [5] even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ— by grace you have been saved— [6] and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, [7] so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

1 Corinthians 15 – [13] But if there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. [14] And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain. [15] We are even found to be misrepresenting God, because we testified about God that he raised Christ, whom he did not raise if it is true that the dead are not raised. [16] For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised. [17] And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins.

1 Thessalonians 4 – [13] But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. [14] For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep.

Romans 6 – [8] Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. [9] We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him.

Colossians 3 – [1]  If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. [2]  Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. [3] For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. [4] When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

[Essential Beliefs: We believe in the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, which is the cornerstone of our faith and the foundation of our hope. The resurrection demonstrates the immeasurable power of God and confirms Jesus’ victory over sin and death. Through His resurrection, believers are also made alive together with Christ, raised to new life, and seated with Him in the heavenly places. The resurrection assures us of our future resurrection and eternal life with Christ. Without the resurrection, our faith would be futile, but because Christ has risen, we have hope and the promise of eternal glory.]

Return of Jesus

John 14 – [14:1]  “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. [2] In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?  [3] And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.

Matthew 24 – [30] Then will appear in heaven the sign of the Son of Man, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. [31] And he will send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.

Acts 1 – [6] So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” [7] He said to them,  “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. [8] But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” [9] And when he had said these things, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. [10] And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, [11] and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”

[Essential Beliefs: We believe in the imminent return of Jesus Christ, who will come again in power and great glory. He has promised to prepare a place for His followers and will return to take them to be with Him. The return of Christ will be visible to all, and He will gather His elect from every corner of the earth. Although the exact time of His return is known only to the Father, it is a foundational hope for all believers. This event assures us of the ultimate restoration and fulfillment of God’s kingdom.]

Eternal Punishment

2 Thessalonians 1 – [5] This is evidence of the righteous judgment of God, that you may be considered worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are also suffering— [6] since indeed God considers it just to repay with affliction those who afflict you, [7] and to grant relief to you who are afflicted as well as to us, when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with his mighty angels [8]  in flaming fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. [9] They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might, [10] when he comes on that day to be glorified in his saints, and to be marveled at among all who have believed, because our testimony to you was believed.

[Essential Beliefs: We believe in the righteous judgment of God, which includes the eternal punishment of those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. This punishment involves eternal destruction and separation from the presence of the Lord and the glory of His might. The return of Jesus Christ will bring relief to the afflicted and vengeance upon the disobedient. This doctrine underscores the seriousness of sin and the necessity of faith in Jesus Christ for salvation.]

The Church

Ephesians 1 – [22] And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, [23]  which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.

1 Corinthians 12 – [27] Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.

Colossians 1 – [18] And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent.

Hebrews 10 – [24] And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, [25]  not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Romans 12 – [4] For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, [5] so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.

Ephesians 4 – [11] And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, [12]  to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, [13] until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, [14] so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. [15] Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, [16]  from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.

[Essential Beliefs: We believe that the Church is the body of Christ, with Jesus as its head. The Church is composed of all believers who are individually members of this body, each with unique roles and functions. The Church is called to unity, to build one another up in love, and to work together for the maturity and growth of the body. It is essential for believers to meet together, encourage one another, and stir each other up to love and good works, as we anticipate the return of Christ. The Church is equipped with various gifts and ministries to fulfill its mission and reflect the fullness of Christ.]

Baptism

Matthew 28 – [18] And Jesus came and said to them,  “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. [19]  Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in  the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

[Essential Beliefs: We believe that baptism is a command given by Jesus Christ and is an outward expression of an inward faith. It signifies the believer’s identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Baptism is performed in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and it represents the believer’s commitment to follow Christ and observe His teachings. It is an important step of obedience and public declaration of faith, symbolizing the washing away of sins and the believer’s new life in Christ.]

The Lord’s Supper

1 Corinthians 11 – [23] For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, [24] 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.”  [25] In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” [26] For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.

[Essential Beliefs: We believe that the Lord’s Supper is to be observed in remembrance of Christ’s sacrificial death and serves as a proclamation of His death until He returns. The bread symbolizes Christ’s body, broken for us, and the cup represents the new covenant in His blood, shed for the forgiveness of sins. Participating in the Lord’s Supper is a time for the body to reflect on all that the Lord has done, but also to remind of the promise He has made to return.]

Love

Mark 12 – [28] And one of the scribes came up and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them well, asked him, “Which commandment is the most important of all?” [29] Jesus answered, “The most important is, ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. [30] And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ [31] The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”

John 13 – [34] A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. [35] By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

1 Corinthians 13 – [1] If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. [2] And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. [3]  If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.[4]  Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant [5] or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; [6] it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. [7]  Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.[8] Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away. [9] For we know in part and we prophesy in part, [10] but when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away. [11] When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways. [12] For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.[13] So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

[Essential Beliefs: We believe that love is the greatest commandment and the highest virtue in the Christian faith. Jesus taught that the most important commandment is to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and the second is to love our neighbor as ourselves. Love is the defining mark of Jesus’ disciples and is to be expressed towards one another as Christ has loved us. True love is patient, kind, humble, and selfless, and it rejoices with the truth. Without love, all spiritual gifts and sacrifices are meaningless. Love never fails.]

Spiritual Gifts

1 Corinthians 12 – [4] Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; [5] and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; [6] and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. [7] To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.

Romans 12 – [3] For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. [4] For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, [5] so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. [6]  Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; [7] if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; [8] the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.

[Essential Beliefs: We believe that spiritual gifts are diverse abilities given by the Holy Spirit to believers for the common good and the building up of the body of Christ. These gifts are distributed according to God’s grace and are to be used in service to others, reflecting the unity and diversity of the Church. Every believer has been given gifts, and each should use them faithfully and humbly to serve the body of Christ and glorify God.]

Unity of the Body

Psalm 133:1 – [1] Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!

Ephesians 4 – [1] I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, [2] with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, [3] eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. [4] There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— [5] one Lord, one faith, one baptism, [6] one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.

Colossians 3 – [14] And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.

1 Corinthians 1 – [10] I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.

Romans 12 – [16] Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.

Philippians 2 – [2] complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. [3] Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

John 17 – [20] “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, [21] that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. [22] The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, [23] I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.

1 Peter 3 – [8] Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.

Romans 15 – [5] May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, [6] that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 12 – [25] that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. [26] If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together. [27] Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.

[Essential Beliefs: We believe that the unity of the body of Christ is vital for the health and mission of the Church. Jesus prayed to His Father for the church to be one. This unity is rooted in our shared faith, hope, and baptism, and it reflects the oneness of God. Believers are called to live in harmony, humility, and love, bearing with one another and maintaining the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Love is the bond that holds everything together in perfect harmony, and it is through this love that the world will know we are disciples of Christ. We are to be united in mind and judgment, avoiding divisions and caring for one another as members of one body. When one member suffers, all suffer together; when one member is honored, all rejoice together. This unity is not just an ideal but a practical expression of our faith, seen in our actions, attitudes, and relationships. By living in unity, we glorify God with one voice and demonstrate the reality of the gospel to the world.]

Conflict

Romans 12 – [14] Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. [15] Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. [16] Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly.  Never be wise in your own sight. [17] Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. [18] If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. [19] Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” [20] To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” [21] Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Ephesians 4 – [25] Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another. [26]  Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, [27] and give no opportunity to the devil. [28] Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need. [29]  Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. [30] And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. [31]  Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. [32] Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

James 3 – [9] With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. [10] From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.

[Essential Beliefs: We believe that Christians are called to handle conflict in a way that reflects the love and grace of Christ. We are to bless those who persecute us and not seek revenge, leaving justice to God. Instead, we are to live peaceably with everyone as much as possible, overcoming evil with good. Communication should be honest and truthful, avoiding falsehood and corrupt talk. Anger must be managed without sinning, and we should not let it fester. Kindness, tenderheartedness, and forgiveness are essential, as God has forgiven us in Christ. Our words should build others up, giving grace to those who hear, and we should strive to eliminate bitterness, wrath, and malice. The integrity of our speech is crucial, as it should consistently honor God and reflect His image in others.]

Forgiveness

Matthew 6 – [14] For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, [15] but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

Ephesians 4 – [29] Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. [30] And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. [31] Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. [32] Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

Colossians 3 – [12] Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, [13] bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. [14] And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.

Matthew 5 – [23] So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, [24] leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.

1 John 1 – [5] This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. [6] If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. [7] But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. [8] If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. [9] If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. [10] If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

Acts 2 – [37] Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” [38] And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. [39] For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.”

[Essential Beliefs: We believe that forgiveness is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith, reflecting the forgiveness we have received from God through Christ. Jesus teaches that forgiving others is essential for receiving God’s forgiveness. We are called to be kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving, putting away bitterness, wrath, and malice. Forgiveness is to be extended as the Lord has forgiven us, fostering compassionate hearts, humility, and love, which bind everything together in perfect harmony. Reconciliation with others is crucial before offering our gifts to God, emphasizing the importance of right relationships. Confessing our sins brings God’s faithful and just forgiveness and cleanses us from all unrighteousness.]

Making Disciples

Matthew 28 – [19] Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, [20] teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Mark 16 – [15] And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. [16]  Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.

Luke 24 – [45] Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, [46] and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, [47] and that repentance for  the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. [48]  You are witnesses of these things. [49] And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.”

Titus 2 – [1] But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine. [2] Older men are to be sober-minded, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, and in steadfastness. [3]  Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, [4] and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, [5] to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled. [6] Likewise, urge the younger men to be self-controlled. [7] Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, [8] and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.

2 Peter 1 – [3] His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, [4] by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire. [5] For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, [6] and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, [7] and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. [8] For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. [9] For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins. [10] Therefore, brothers,  be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall.

[Essential Beliefs: We believe that making disciples is a command given by Jesus Christ to His followers. This involves going into all the world, proclaiming the gospel, baptizing believers, and teaching them to observe all that Jesus has commanded. Disciple-making is not only about evangelism but also about nurturing believers in sound doctrine, helping them grow in faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love. It is essential for all believers to participate in this mission, teaching and training others in the ways of the Lord and modeling a life of integrity and godliness. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, believers are equipped to fulfill this great commission, ensuring the growth and maturity of the body of Christ.]

Prayer

Matthew 6 – [5] “And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. [6] But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.[7] “And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. [8] Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. [9]  Pray then like this:“Our Father in heaven,hallowed be your name. [10]  Your kingdom come,your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. [11]  Give us this day our daily bread, [12] and forgive us our debts,as we also have forgiven our debtors.[13] And lead us not into temptation,but deliver us from evil. [14]  For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, [15]  but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

Philippians 4 – [4]  Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. [5] Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; [6]  do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. [7] And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

James 5 – [16] Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.

1 Timothy 2 – [1] First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, [2]  for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. [3] This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, [4] who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

1 Timothy 2 – [8] I desire then that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling;

Romans 8 – [26] Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.

1 Thessalonians 5 – [16]  Rejoice always, [17]  pray without ceasing, [18]  give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

[Essential Beliefs: We believe that prayer is a vital and powerful aspect of the Christian life, enabling direct communication with God. Jesus taught us to pray with sincerity and humility, seeking God’s will and provision, and maintaining a forgiving heart. Prayer should be done in secret as well as in community, without using empty phrases, trusting that God knows our needs. We are encouraged to pray about everything, presenting our requests with thanksgiving, and experiencing God’s peace that guards our hearts and minds. Confession and intercession are important aspects of prayer, fostering healing and spiritual growth. We are to pray for all people, including those in authority, to lead peaceful and godly lives. The Holy Spirit assists us in our prayers, interceding for us when we are weak. Believers are called to rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances, as this aligns with God’s will.]

Humility

Philippians 2 – [3] Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. [4] Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. [5]  Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, [6]  who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, [7] but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant,  being born in the likeness of men. [8] And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

1 Peter 5 – [5] Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”[6]  Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, [7]  casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

Ephesians 4 – [1] I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, [2] with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, [3] eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

James 1 – [19] Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; [20] for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.

Romans 12 – [3] For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. [4] For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, [5] so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. [6]  Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; [7] if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; [8] the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.

[Essential Beliefs: We believe that humility is a fundamental Christian virtue, modeled perfectly by Jesus Christ. Believers are called to act without selfish ambition or conceit, considering others more significant than themselves and looking out for the interests of others. Jesus, though divine, exemplified humility by becoming a servant and obediently dying on the cross. Christians are urged to clothe themselves with humility, recognizing that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. By humbling ourselves under God’s mighty hand, we trust that He will exalt us in due time. Humility involves being quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger, and it requires a sober assessment of ourselves, acknowledging the diversity of gifts and roles within the body of Christ. Walking in humility fosters unity, patience, gentleness, and love within the Church.]

Marriage

1 Corinthians 11 – [3] But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, the head of a wife is her husband, and the head of Christ is God.

Mark 10 – [6] But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’ [7] ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, [8] and the two shall become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two but one flesh. [9] What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”

Colossians 3 – [18] Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. [19] Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them. [20] Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. [21] Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged.

Ephesians 5 – [22] Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. [23] For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. [24] Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands.[25]  Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, [26] that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, [27] so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish. [28] In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. [29] For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church, [30] because we are members of his body. [31]  “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” [32] This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church. [33] However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.

[Essential Beliefs: We believe that marriage is a sacred covenant instituted by God between one man and one woman. In marriage, the husband is to love his wife sacrificially, as Christ loved the church, and the wife is to respect and submit to her husband as the church submits to Christ. This relationship mirrors the profound mystery of Christ’s union with the church. Husbands are called to cherish and nourish their wives, without being harsh with them, and wives are to honor their husbands, fostering a partnership characterized by mutual love, respect, and selflessness. Children are to obey their parents, and fathers should encourage and not provoke their children. Marriage is intended to be a lifelong, indissoluble union, with the two becoming one flesh, reflecting God’s design and purpose from creation.]

Spiritual Warfare

Ephesians 6 – [10] Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. [11]  Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. [12] For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. [13] Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. [14] Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, [15] and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. [16] In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; [17] and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

1 Peter 5 – [8] Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. [9] Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.

James 4 – [7] Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

[We believe that spiritual warfare is a reality for all believers, as we face opposition from the devil and his forces. Christians are called to be strong in the Lord and to rely on His might. To stand firm against the schemes of the devil, we must put on the whole armor of God, which includes the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Being sober-minded and watchful is crucial, as our adversary, the devil, prowls around seeking to devour. We are to resist him, standing firm in our faith and knowing that we are not alone in our struggles. Submitting to God and resisting the devil will cause him to flee from us.]