Paynes Corners Christian Church defines its two-fold duty as follows: to preach the Gospel and to edify the saints of God, mainly through instruction in sound doctrine.
The Gospel is defined in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 in that Jesus Christ “died for our sins according to the scriptures… was buried, and… rose again the third day according to the scriptures”. Good works, no matter their scope or number, cannot earn any person a place in heaven. The only means of salvation and a subsequent place in heaven is through the profession of faith in Christ’s death as the only acceptable atonement for sin. Therefore, it is our duty to share the Gospel with others as God gives us opportunity.
The second duty of the Church is the teaching of sound doctrine. Paynes Corners Christian Church recognizes that it cannot bind the consciences of individual members in areas where the Scripture does not speak directly or where it can legitimately be understood in more than one way, but that each believer is to be led by the Lord to whom they alone are ultimately responsible. For the preservation of the peace and unity of the church, officers and teachers shall be in substantial agreement with this Doctrinal Statement. All members should refrain from imposing doctrines that are not included in this Doctrinal Statement in such a way as to encourage doctrinal disputes which could destroy the peace and unity of the church.
By accepting and subscribing to these articles of faith, we by no means set aside or undervalue any of the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments.
Section A - The Bible
WE BELIEVE the Bible, which includes the thirty-nine books of the Old Testament and the twenty-seven books of the New Testament, to be the divinely inspired, infallible, inerrant, supreme and final authoritative Word of God for faith and life. (Ps. 19:7-11; Luke 24:27; John 17:17; Acts 17:2-3; 2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Pet. 1:20-21; 3:15-16)
Section B – The Sovereignty of God
WE BELIEVE there is only one true and living God, who is infinite in being and perfection, a pure Spirit, invisible, without body, parts, or passions; immutable, immense, eternal, incomprehensible, almighty, all wise, entirely holy, most free, absolute; working all things according to the counsel of His own immutable and righteous will, for His own glory; entirely loving, gracious, merciful, long-suffering, abundant in goodness and truth, forgiving iniquity, transgression, and sin; the rewarder of them that diligently seek Him; and withal, entirely just, and awesome in His judgments, hating all sin, and who will by no means clear the guilty. (Deut 6:4; 1 Cor 8:4,6; 1 Thess 1:9; Jer 10:10; Job 11:7-9, 26:14; John 4:24; 1 Tim 1:17; Duet 4:15-16; Luke 24:39; Acts 14:11, 15; Jam 1:17; Mal 3:6; 1 Ki 8:27; Jer 23:23-24; Psa 90:2; Psa 145:3; Gen 17:1; Rev 4:8; Rom 16:27; Isa 6:3; Psa 115:3; Exo 3:14; Eph 1:11; Pro 16:4; 1 John 4:8, 16; Exo 34:6; Heb 11:6; Neh 9:32-33; Psa 5:5-6; Nah 1:2-3; Exo 34:7)
God has all life, glory, goodness, blessedness, in and of Himself; and is alone in and unto Himself all-sufficient, not standing in need of any creatures which He has made, nor deriving any glory from them, but only revealing His own glory in, by, unto, and upon them. He is the lone fountain of all being, of whom, through whom, and to whom are all things; and has absolute and sovereign dominion over His creation, to do by them, for them, or upon them whatever He pleases. In His sight all things are open and completely revealed. His knowledge is infinite, infallible, and independent of His creation. (John 5:26; Acts 7:2; Psa 119:68; 1 Ti 6:15; Rom 9:5; Acts 17:24; Job 22:2; Rom 11:36; Rev 4:11; Dan 4:25, 35; Heb 4:13)
Section C - The Trinity of the Godhead
WE BELIEVE that the one God eternally exists in three Persons: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit; and that these three are one God, having precisely the same nature, attributes and perfection, and are worthy of the same homage, confidence, obedience, praise and worship. (Is. 48:16; Matt. 28:19; Mark 12:29; John 1:1,14; Acts 5:3-4; 2 Cor. 13:14)
Section D - The Total Sinfulness of Mankind
WE BELIEVE that human beings were originally created in the image of God; that we sinned through disobedience and thereby incurred not only physical but also spiritual death, which is separation from God; that all human beings are born with a sinful nature; that all have fallen short of the glory of God; that we express our sinful natures through thoughts, words and deeds; and that in and of ourselves, we cannot please God. (Gen. 1:26; 2:17; 3:1-19; Ps. 51:5; Jer. 17:9; John 6:44,65; Rom. 3:10,23; 5:12; 8:7-8; Eph. 2:1-3)
Section E - The Person and Work of Jesus Christ
WE BELIEVE in the virgin birth of the Lord Jesus Christ, His absolute deity, His sinless humanity and perfect life, the eternal all-sufficiency of His atoning death, His bodily resurrection, and His ascension to the Father's right hand, where as the only mediator between God and man He makes intercession for us until He comes again. (Isa. 7:14; Isa. 9:6-7; Luke 1:30-35, 2:40; John 1:1-2,18; Romans 8:34; 1 Cor. 15:3-4; Phil. 2:5-11; Col. 1:13-15; 1 Tim. 2:5; Heb. 1:1-3; 2:14-18; 1 John 3:5)
Section F - The Blood Atonement of Jesus Christ
WE BELIEVE that Jesus Christ died for our sins, according to the Scriptures as a substitutionary sacrifice. His shed blood is the redemptive price for sinners, the only means of atonement for sin, and is appropriated by faith alone. (Lev. 17:11; Rom. 3:21-26; 5:6-8; 1 Cor. 15:3; 2 Cor. 5:21; Gal. 3:13; Eph. 1:7, 2:8-9; Titus 3:5; Heb. 9:22-28; 1 Pet. 1:18-19,23; 3:18)
Section G - Justification
WE BELIEVE that justification is a judicial act of God whereby He pardons the believer's sin and declares the sinner righteous solely on the merits of Christ's sacrificial death and shed blood. This is an act solely of God and is appropriated by faith in Jesus Christ alone. (John 1:12; 3:7-8; Rom. 3:24,28; 4:4-5; 2 Cor. 5:21; Eph. 2:8-10; Col. 1:13-15; Titus 3:5-6; 1 John 1:9)
Section H - The New Birth (Regeneration)
WE BELIEVE that the new birth, or regeneration, is the act of God which gives eternal life. When we were dead in our sins, He raised us up and made us alive together with Christ by grace alone. He imparts to us a new nature and puts his laws in our hearts and writes them on our minds. (John 1:12; 3:3-7; Rom 3:10,23; 2 Cor. 5:17; Eph. 2:1-5; 2 Tim. 1:9; Titus 3:5; Heb. 10:16; 1 Peter 1:23)
Section I – God’s Sovereignty in the New Birth
WE BELIEVE God has appointed the elect unto glory (salvation). By the eternal and free purpose of His will, God has foreordained all who will come to faith in Christ. Therefore, those who are elected, being fallen in Adam, are redeemed by Christ, are effectually called to faith in Christ by His Spirit working in due season, are justified, adopted, sanctified, and kept by His power, through faith, unto salvation. Only the elect are called to salvation. No others are redeemed by Christ, effectually called, justified, adopted, sanctified, and saved. (1 Thess 5:9-10 Titus 2:14; Rom 8:28-30; Eph 1:5; 2 Thess 2:13; 1 Pet 1:5; John 17:9; John 6:64-65, 10:26, 8:47; 1 John 2:19)
Section J - The Assurance of Salvation
WE BELIEVE that God's Word teaches the assurance of salvation and the keeping power of God for daily living to every born again person and that this new life is eternal for the believer. (John 5:24; 10:28-29; Rom. 8:1, 28-39; 2 Cor. 5:1, 6-8; Phil. 1:6; 1 Peter 1:3-5; 1 John 5:13)
Section K - The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit
WE BELIEVE that the Holy Spirit is the third person of the Godhead; that He convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment; and that He regenerates, indwells, seals, enlightens, guides and empowers the believer. (John 3:6, 14:16-17, 16:7-15; Acts 1:8; Rom. 8:9; 1 Cor. 12:13; Eph. 1:13-14, 4:30, 5:18)
Section L - The Gifts of the Holy Spirit
WE BELIEVE that the Holy Spirit sovereignly gives each believer at least one spiritual gift; that no believer is destitute of such a gift; that He gives these gifts to believers so that they might serve the body of Christ (the Church); and that the Church has been given specific gifted believers whose purpose it is to equip the saints for service and building up the body of Christ. (Rom. 12:6-8; 1 Cor. 12:4-11; Eph. 4:7-12; 1 Peter 4:10)
Section M - The Christian Walk
WE BELIEVE that all who are born again by the Holy Spirit are made partakers of the divine nature, and are called with a holy calling to walk, not after the flesh, but after the Spirit; and that they can be victorious over the flesh through the power of the Holy Spirit and thus not manifest the works of the flesh, which would dishonor Christ's name, but manifest the fruit of the Spirit, which glorifies God. (Romans 6-8; Gal. 5:16-23; Eph. 1:3-14; 4:1-6:4; 1 Peter 1:15-16; 2 Peter 1:3-4)
Section N - Marriage and Human Sexuality:
WE BELIEVE that God has established marriage as the exclusive, lifelong covenantal union of one man and one woman (Genesis 2:24; Matt. 19:3-9). Hence, sexual activities outside of marriage including, but not limited to, adultery, premarital sex, homosexuality, pedophilia and bestiality are forbidden (Rom 1:26-27, 1 Cor 6:9; 1 Thess. 4:3-8). Though marriage is intended by God to be a life-long commitment, the Bible does make allowances for divorce in certain cases. A Christian may [but does not have to] divorce due to adultery committed by their spouse (Matt. 5:32, 19:9). Paul states that divorce should not be held against a Christian if an unbelieving [unsaved] spouse seeks the divorce (1 Cor. 7:13-15). Furthermore, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 list several types of people who will not inherit the kingdom of God, including adulterers (1 Cor. 6:9). 1 Corinthians 6:11 states, “such were some of you: but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus…”. God has placed a new heart with new desires and a new morality within each Christian, making them able to be a devoted spouse in their current marriage. Lastly, we believe that divorce does not automatically disqualify a person from holding an office within the church, especially the office of elder, deacon or deaconess. There has been much discussion on the phrase “husband of one wife” with respect to the qualifications for elders, deacons and deaconesses (1 Tim. 3:2-12, Tit. 1:5-9). An excellent discussion of the phrase “husband of one wife” was written by Dave Miller in Divorce, Remarriage and Ministry: What is a “Husband of One Wife?” A portion of that discussion follows:
…this passage [1 Tim. 3:2, Tit. 1:6] does not refer to divorce, but to the kind of husband a man is to his wife.
What does “husband of one wife” mean? So, let us examine this phrase.
It is my contention that neither divorce nor polygamy is the primary focus of this passage. I believe that Paul is requiring that a man must demonstrate himself as a faithful and devoted husband before he is ready to lead God’s church.
The translation “husband of one wife” may not be the best translation of the passage. The Greek phrase in 1 Timothy 3:2, μιᾶς γυναικὸς ἄνδρα “mias gunaikos andra”, could be literally translated “one-woman man” or “a man of one woman.” The last word, man, appears in a slightly different form in each of the three passages, but the meaning is the same. The key leaders of the church, elders and deacons, are to demonstrate themselves to the church as “one-woman men.”
That accurate translation seems to almost explain itself. What is in view here is the man’s heart. It involves much more than just being sexually faithful to his wife. A one-woman man is faithful in body, yes, but also in soul and spirit. He is devoted to his wife. His relationship with his wife demonstrates that he knows how to be a servant leader. If he is not faithful and devoted to his wife, it is unlikely he will be faithful and devoted to his church duties.
This is a much higher burden than some other interpretations require. Since we do not have polygamy (at least officially) in our nation, it would be an empty requirement if that meaning is accepted. If the command is simply a prohibition that a man never has been divorced, all that is required is that a man has avoided divorce. But this command is more significant than that. I have known men who have never been divorced and have never cheated on their wives, but show little devotion to their wives. They may be technically “the husband of one wife” but cannot by any means be called a “one-woman man.”
It is my belief that this kind of character is what is in view in this command. If Paul had wanted to say that a man who had ever been divorced was not qualified to serve as an elder or deacon, there are ways he could have said that in Greek. Paul spoke clearly and it is clear what he meant in this passage. He was saying that men who lead the church should be men who have demonstrated their abilities to lead their homes and demonstrate faithful servant leadership to their wives.
Therefore, the marriage relationship as well as the marriage history will be one factor in determining the eligibility of any person for church office on a case-by-case basis.
Furthermore, lewd conduct, transgender behavior and bestiality are incompatible with Christian conduct (Lev. 18:22-23, Matt. 5:27-28, Eph. 5:3-5).
Section O - Missions
WE BELIEVE that we should obey Christ’s command to go into the whole world to make disciples, proclaiming the gospel by word and deed. (Matt. 28:18-19; John 20:21; Acts 1:8; 2 Cor. 5:18-20; Col. 4:5-6)
Section P - Ordinances
WE BELIEVE that there are two church ordinances, communion and baptism, which are the outward signs of inward spiritual reality and which our Lord Jesus Christ instituted and commanded for the Church.
1. Communion: The Church celebrates Communion with the use of bread and the cup (fruit of the vine, i.e. grape juice), symbolizing the body and blood of Christ, in accordance with the accounts given in the Scriptures (Matt. 26:20-30; Mark 14:17-27; Luke 22:14-20; 1 Cor. 11:1-34). The bread and juice served during the service do not convey any special grace or favor of God. They merely serve as a memorial to help us remember the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. We believe that the Lord's Supper should be an important part of the Church life and a priority for every believer. Thus we observe communion frequently and regularly (usually the last Sunday of each month), but not so frequently that the ordinance loses its meaning.
2. Baptism: Baptism in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit is administered by immersion to born again believers (Matt. 28:18-19). Baptism is an act of obedience to Jesus Christ, a symbol of identification with Christ (Romans 6:4), and a public testimony of faith in Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit's inward work of regeneration (Matt. 10:32-33). Baptism does not impart salvation, but follows salvation. (Acts 8:12; Ephesians 2:8-9). Believer’s baptism by immersion is the official teaching position and practice in this church. However, accommodation will be made for those who cannot be immersed, such as poor health, advanced age or fear of immersion.
Regarding infant baptism, the Protestant Reformer Ulrich Zwingli was clear in his writings that baptism did not forgive sin. He wrote: “Christ himself did not connect salvation with baptism: it [salvation] is always by faith alone.” However, he also wrote that baptism was not connected to faith either. “Hence it follows that water-baptism was given even when there was no faith, and it was received even by those who did not believe.” Thus to Zwingli baptism was proper for infants. Another Reformed theologian, John Calvin, likened infant baptism as being similar in purpose to circumcision of infants. To Calvin, baptism identified infant baptism as a sign of Christian identity.
Section Q - Second Coming of Christ
WE BELIEVE in the personal, imminent, and bodily return of our Lord Jesus Christ to this earth in power and glory, which is the blessed hope for which we constantly should be looking (John 14:1-3; 1 Cor. 15:51-52; 1 Thess. 4:13-18; Titus 2:11-14). We recognize that godly, Bible-believing scholars have different views on the end times. While these views are worth studying and debating in a brotherly manner (because the Scriptures speak much about these matters), we should not make our views on prophecy a matter of faction or division in the church. Rather, biblical prophecy is given to motivate us to godly living and increased zeal for Christ’s kingdom (2 Pet. 3:3-14; 1 John 3:2-3).
Section R - Heaven, Hell, and the Resurrection of the Saints
WE BELIEVE in the resurrection of the saints to eternal blessedness in heaven and the lost to be raised to judgment, condemnation and eternal punishment in hell. (Dan. 12:2; Matt. 25:46; Luke 16:22-23; John 5:24, 28-29; 14:1-3; 1 Cor. 15:16-23; 2 Cor. 5:6-8; Phil. 1:23; 1 Thess. 4:13-17; 2 Thess. 1:7-10; 1 John 5:11-13; Rev. 20)
Section S - The Personality and Work of Satan
WE BELIEVE that Satan is a real and personal spiritual being and that, as the "prince of the power of the air," he is now working in the children of disobedience. He uses demons and humans as agents in the execution of his ungodly purposes, and his final defeat is assured. (Isa. 14:12-27; Matt. 4:1-3; 2 Cor. 4:4; 11:3-4,13-15; Eph. 2:2; 2 Peter 2:4; Rev. 12:9; 20:10)
Section T - Partisan Political Activity
WE BELIEVE that all Christians should educate themselves regarding civil and moral issues of the day, researching these matters thoroughly for themselves rather than accepting anyone else’s written/verbal opinions, emails, newsletters, etc. at face value.
Having said this, we believe that it is our Christian duty to vote, and to vote for the candidates who are competent, those who are substantially aligned with our Christian beliefs, and those who respect the founding documents of our country.
We believe Christians should contact their elected officials via meetings, phone calls, emails, or websites when they wish to convey their opinions and/or concerns regarding current issues. When communicating with elected officials, we believe that each communication should be clear, concise, polite and respectful.
We believe that God is not the property of any political party or candidate. While preaching and teaching on moral and civil issues is the duty of the church, anyone who speaks on behalf of the church, whether through preaching, teaching or in any other official capacity, will not in any way become involved in partisan political activity while preaching or teaching (e.g., comments of a partisan nature which endorse or condemn a particular candidate or political party, handing out inflammatory partisan flyers, newsletters, etc.)
Finally, we believe that Christians are to pray for our elected and appointed leaders regardless of political orientation since these men and women carry the burden of governing.
The Gospel is defined in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 in that Jesus Christ “died for our sins according to the scriptures… was buried, and… rose again the third day according to the scriptures”. Good works, no matter their scope or number, cannot earn any person a place in heaven. The only means of salvation and a subsequent place in heaven is through the profession of faith in Christ’s death as the only acceptable atonement for sin. Therefore, it is our duty to share the Gospel with others as God gives us opportunity.
The second duty of the Church is the teaching of sound doctrine. Paynes Corners Christian Church recognizes that it cannot bind the consciences of individual members in areas where the Scripture does not speak directly or where it can legitimately be understood in more than one way, but that each believer is to be led by the Lord to whom they alone are ultimately responsible. For the preservation of the peace and unity of the church, officers and teachers shall be in substantial agreement with this Doctrinal Statement. All members should refrain from imposing doctrines that are not included in this Doctrinal Statement in such a way as to encourage doctrinal disputes which could destroy the peace and unity of the church.
By accepting and subscribing to these articles of faith, we by no means set aside or undervalue any of the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments.
Section A - The Bible
WE BELIEVE the Bible, which includes the thirty-nine books of the Old Testament and the twenty-seven books of the New Testament, to be the divinely inspired, infallible, inerrant, supreme and final authoritative Word of God for faith and life. (Ps. 19:7-11; Luke 24:27; John 17:17; Acts 17:2-3; 2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Pet. 1:20-21; 3:15-16)
Section B – The Sovereignty of God
WE BELIEVE there is only one true and living God, who is infinite in being and perfection, a pure Spirit, invisible, without body, parts, or passions; immutable, immense, eternal, incomprehensible, almighty, all wise, entirely holy, most free, absolute; working all things according to the counsel of His own immutable and righteous will, for His own glory; entirely loving, gracious, merciful, long-suffering, abundant in goodness and truth, forgiving iniquity, transgression, and sin; the rewarder of them that diligently seek Him; and withal, entirely just, and awesome in His judgments, hating all sin, and who will by no means clear the guilty. (Deut 6:4; 1 Cor 8:4,6; 1 Thess 1:9; Jer 10:10; Job 11:7-9, 26:14; John 4:24; 1 Tim 1:17; Duet 4:15-16; Luke 24:39; Acts 14:11, 15; Jam 1:17; Mal 3:6; 1 Ki 8:27; Jer 23:23-24; Psa 90:2; Psa 145:3; Gen 17:1; Rev 4:8; Rom 16:27; Isa 6:3; Psa 115:3; Exo 3:14; Eph 1:11; Pro 16:4; 1 John 4:8, 16; Exo 34:6; Heb 11:6; Neh 9:32-33; Psa 5:5-6; Nah 1:2-3; Exo 34:7)
God has all life, glory, goodness, blessedness, in and of Himself; and is alone in and unto Himself all-sufficient, not standing in need of any creatures which He has made, nor deriving any glory from them, but only revealing His own glory in, by, unto, and upon them. He is the lone fountain of all being, of whom, through whom, and to whom are all things; and has absolute and sovereign dominion over His creation, to do by them, for them, or upon them whatever He pleases. In His sight all things are open and completely revealed. His knowledge is infinite, infallible, and independent of His creation. (John 5:26; Acts 7:2; Psa 119:68; 1 Ti 6:15; Rom 9:5; Acts 17:24; Job 22:2; Rom 11:36; Rev 4:11; Dan 4:25, 35; Heb 4:13)
Section C - The Trinity of the Godhead
WE BELIEVE that the one God eternally exists in three Persons: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit; and that these three are one God, having precisely the same nature, attributes and perfection, and are worthy of the same homage, confidence, obedience, praise and worship. (Is. 48:16; Matt. 28:19; Mark 12:29; John 1:1,14; Acts 5:3-4; 2 Cor. 13:14)
Section D - The Total Sinfulness of Mankind
WE BELIEVE that human beings were originally created in the image of God; that we sinned through disobedience and thereby incurred not only physical but also spiritual death, which is separation from God; that all human beings are born with a sinful nature; that all have fallen short of the glory of God; that we express our sinful natures through thoughts, words and deeds; and that in and of ourselves, we cannot please God. (Gen. 1:26; 2:17; 3:1-19; Ps. 51:5; Jer. 17:9; John 6:44,65; Rom. 3:10,23; 5:12; 8:7-8; Eph. 2:1-3)
Section E - The Person and Work of Jesus Christ
WE BELIEVE in the virgin birth of the Lord Jesus Christ, His absolute deity, His sinless humanity and perfect life, the eternal all-sufficiency of His atoning death, His bodily resurrection, and His ascension to the Father's right hand, where as the only mediator between God and man He makes intercession for us until He comes again. (Isa. 7:14; Isa. 9:6-7; Luke 1:30-35, 2:40; John 1:1-2,18; Romans 8:34; 1 Cor. 15:3-4; Phil. 2:5-11; Col. 1:13-15; 1 Tim. 2:5; Heb. 1:1-3; 2:14-18; 1 John 3:5)
Section F - The Blood Atonement of Jesus Christ
WE BELIEVE that Jesus Christ died for our sins, according to the Scriptures as a substitutionary sacrifice. His shed blood is the redemptive price for sinners, the only means of atonement for sin, and is appropriated by faith alone. (Lev. 17:11; Rom. 3:21-26; 5:6-8; 1 Cor. 15:3; 2 Cor. 5:21; Gal. 3:13; Eph. 1:7, 2:8-9; Titus 3:5; Heb. 9:22-28; 1 Pet. 1:18-19,23; 3:18)
Section G - Justification
WE BELIEVE that justification is a judicial act of God whereby He pardons the believer's sin and declares the sinner righteous solely on the merits of Christ's sacrificial death and shed blood. This is an act solely of God and is appropriated by faith in Jesus Christ alone. (John 1:12; 3:7-8; Rom. 3:24,28; 4:4-5; 2 Cor. 5:21; Eph. 2:8-10; Col. 1:13-15; Titus 3:5-6; 1 John 1:9)
Section H - The New Birth (Regeneration)
WE BELIEVE that the new birth, or regeneration, is the act of God which gives eternal life. When we were dead in our sins, He raised us up and made us alive together with Christ by grace alone. He imparts to us a new nature and puts his laws in our hearts and writes them on our minds. (John 1:12; 3:3-7; Rom 3:10,23; 2 Cor. 5:17; Eph. 2:1-5; 2 Tim. 1:9; Titus 3:5; Heb. 10:16; 1 Peter 1:23)
Section I – God’s Sovereignty in the New Birth
WE BELIEVE God has appointed the elect unto glory (salvation). By the eternal and free purpose of His will, God has foreordained all who will come to faith in Christ. Therefore, those who are elected, being fallen in Adam, are redeemed by Christ, are effectually called to faith in Christ by His Spirit working in due season, are justified, adopted, sanctified, and kept by His power, through faith, unto salvation. Only the elect are called to salvation. No others are redeemed by Christ, effectually called, justified, adopted, sanctified, and saved. (1 Thess 5:9-10 Titus 2:14; Rom 8:28-30; Eph 1:5; 2 Thess 2:13; 1 Pet 1:5; John 17:9; John 6:64-65, 10:26, 8:47; 1 John 2:19)
Section J - The Assurance of Salvation
WE BELIEVE that God's Word teaches the assurance of salvation and the keeping power of God for daily living to every born again person and that this new life is eternal for the believer. (John 5:24; 10:28-29; Rom. 8:1, 28-39; 2 Cor. 5:1, 6-8; Phil. 1:6; 1 Peter 1:3-5; 1 John 5:13)
Section K - The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit
WE BELIEVE that the Holy Spirit is the third person of the Godhead; that He convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment; and that He regenerates, indwells, seals, enlightens, guides and empowers the believer. (John 3:6, 14:16-17, 16:7-15; Acts 1:8; Rom. 8:9; 1 Cor. 12:13; Eph. 1:13-14, 4:30, 5:18)
Section L - The Gifts of the Holy Spirit
WE BELIEVE that the Holy Spirit sovereignly gives each believer at least one spiritual gift; that no believer is destitute of such a gift; that He gives these gifts to believers so that they might serve the body of Christ (the Church); and that the Church has been given specific gifted believers whose purpose it is to equip the saints for service and building up the body of Christ. (Rom. 12:6-8; 1 Cor. 12:4-11; Eph. 4:7-12; 1 Peter 4:10)
Section M - The Christian Walk
WE BELIEVE that all who are born again by the Holy Spirit are made partakers of the divine nature, and are called with a holy calling to walk, not after the flesh, but after the Spirit; and that they can be victorious over the flesh through the power of the Holy Spirit and thus not manifest the works of the flesh, which would dishonor Christ's name, but manifest the fruit of the Spirit, which glorifies God. (Romans 6-8; Gal. 5:16-23; Eph. 1:3-14; 4:1-6:4; 1 Peter 1:15-16; 2 Peter 1:3-4)
Section N - Marriage and Human Sexuality:
WE BELIEVE that God has established marriage as the exclusive, lifelong covenantal union of one man and one woman (Genesis 2:24; Matt. 19:3-9). Hence, sexual activities outside of marriage including, but not limited to, adultery, premarital sex, homosexuality, pedophilia and bestiality are forbidden (Rom 1:26-27, 1 Cor 6:9; 1 Thess. 4:3-8). Though marriage is intended by God to be a life-long commitment, the Bible does make allowances for divorce in certain cases. A Christian may [but does not have to] divorce due to adultery committed by their spouse (Matt. 5:32, 19:9). Paul states that divorce should not be held against a Christian if an unbelieving [unsaved] spouse seeks the divorce (1 Cor. 7:13-15). Furthermore, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 list several types of people who will not inherit the kingdom of God, including adulterers (1 Cor. 6:9). 1 Corinthians 6:11 states, “such were some of you: but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus…”. God has placed a new heart with new desires and a new morality within each Christian, making them able to be a devoted spouse in their current marriage. Lastly, we believe that divorce does not automatically disqualify a person from holding an office within the church, especially the office of elder, deacon or deaconess. There has been much discussion on the phrase “husband of one wife” with respect to the qualifications for elders, deacons and deaconesses (1 Tim. 3:2-12, Tit. 1:5-9). An excellent discussion of the phrase “husband of one wife” was written by Dave Miller in Divorce, Remarriage and Ministry: What is a “Husband of One Wife?” A portion of that discussion follows:
…this passage [1 Tim. 3:2, Tit. 1:6] does not refer to divorce, but to the kind of husband a man is to his wife.
What does “husband of one wife” mean? So, let us examine this phrase.
It is my contention that neither divorce nor polygamy is the primary focus of this passage. I believe that Paul is requiring that a man must demonstrate himself as a faithful and devoted husband before he is ready to lead God’s church.
The translation “husband of one wife” may not be the best translation of the passage. The Greek phrase in 1 Timothy 3:2, μιᾶς γυναικὸς ἄνδρα “mias gunaikos andra”, could be literally translated “one-woman man” or “a man of one woman.” The last word, man, appears in a slightly different form in each of the three passages, but the meaning is the same. The key leaders of the church, elders and deacons, are to demonstrate themselves to the church as “one-woman men.”
That accurate translation seems to almost explain itself. What is in view here is the man’s heart. It involves much more than just being sexually faithful to his wife. A one-woman man is faithful in body, yes, but also in soul and spirit. He is devoted to his wife. His relationship with his wife demonstrates that he knows how to be a servant leader. If he is not faithful and devoted to his wife, it is unlikely he will be faithful and devoted to his church duties.
This is a much higher burden than some other interpretations require. Since we do not have polygamy (at least officially) in our nation, it would be an empty requirement if that meaning is accepted. If the command is simply a prohibition that a man never has been divorced, all that is required is that a man has avoided divorce. But this command is more significant than that. I have known men who have never been divorced and have never cheated on their wives, but show little devotion to their wives. They may be technically “the husband of one wife” but cannot by any means be called a “one-woman man.”
It is my belief that this kind of character is what is in view in this command. If Paul had wanted to say that a man who had ever been divorced was not qualified to serve as an elder or deacon, there are ways he could have said that in Greek. Paul spoke clearly and it is clear what he meant in this passage. He was saying that men who lead the church should be men who have demonstrated their abilities to lead their homes and demonstrate faithful servant leadership to their wives.
Therefore, the marriage relationship as well as the marriage history will be one factor in determining the eligibility of any person for church office on a case-by-case basis.
Furthermore, lewd conduct, transgender behavior and bestiality are incompatible with Christian conduct (Lev. 18:22-23, Matt. 5:27-28, Eph. 5:3-5).
Section O - Missions
WE BELIEVE that we should obey Christ’s command to go into the whole world to make disciples, proclaiming the gospel by word and deed. (Matt. 28:18-19; John 20:21; Acts 1:8; 2 Cor. 5:18-20; Col. 4:5-6)
Section P - Ordinances
WE BELIEVE that there are two church ordinances, communion and baptism, which are the outward signs of inward spiritual reality and which our Lord Jesus Christ instituted and commanded for the Church.
1. Communion: The Church celebrates Communion with the use of bread and the cup (fruit of the vine, i.e. grape juice), symbolizing the body and blood of Christ, in accordance with the accounts given in the Scriptures (Matt. 26:20-30; Mark 14:17-27; Luke 22:14-20; 1 Cor. 11:1-34). The bread and juice served during the service do not convey any special grace or favor of God. They merely serve as a memorial to help us remember the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. We believe that the Lord's Supper should be an important part of the Church life and a priority for every believer. Thus we observe communion frequently and regularly (usually the last Sunday of each month), but not so frequently that the ordinance loses its meaning.
2. Baptism: Baptism in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit is administered by immersion to born again believers (Matt. 28:18-19). Baptism is an act of obedience to Jesus Christ, a symbol of identification with Christ (Romans 6:4), and a public testimony of faith in Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit's inward work of regeneration (Matt. 10:32-33). Baptism does not impart salvation, but follows salvation. (Acts 8:12; Ephesians 2:8-9). Believer’s baptism by immersion is the official teaching position and practice in this church. However, accommodation will be made for those who cannot be immersed, such as poor health, advanced age or fear of immersion.
Regarding infant baptism, the Protestant Reformer Ulrich Zwingli was clear in his writings that baptism did not forgive sin. He wrote: “Christ himself did not connect salvation with baptism: it [salvation] is always by faith alone.” However, he also wrote that baptism was not connected to faith either. “Hence it follows that water-baptism was given even when there was no faith, and it was received even by those who did not believe.” Thus to Zwingli baptism was proper for infants. Another Reformed theologian, John Calvin, likened infant baptism as being similar in purpose to circumcision of infants. To Calvin, baptism identified infant baptism as a sign of Christian identity.
Section Q - Second Coming of Christ
WE BELIEVE in the personal, imminent, and bodily return of our Lord Jesus Christ to this earth in power and glory, which is the blessed hope for which we constantly should be looking (John 14:1-3; 1 Cor. 15:51-52; 1 Thess. 4:13-18; Titus 2:11-14). We recognize that godly, Bible-believing scholars have different views on the end times. While these views are worth studying and debating in a brotherly manner (because the Scriptures speak much about these matters), we should not make our views on prophecy a matter of faction or division in the church. Rather, biblical prophecy is given to motivate us to godly living and increased zeal for Christ’s kingdom (2 Pet. 3:3-14; 1 John 3:2-3).
Section R - Heaven, Hell, and the Resurrection of the Saints
WE BELIEVE in the resurrection of the saints to eternal blessedness in heaven and the lost to be raised to judgment, condemnation and eternal punishment in hell. (Dan. 12:2; Matt. 25:46; Luke 16:22-23; John 5:24, 28-29; 14:1-3; 1 Cor. 15:16-23; 2 Cor. 5:6-8; Phil. 1:23; 1 Thess. 4:13-17; 2 Thess. 1:7-10; 1 John 5:11-13; Rev. 20)
Section S - The Personality and Work of Satan
WE BELIEVE that Satan is a real and personal spiritual being and that, as the "prince of the power of the air," he is now working in the children of disobedience. He uses demons and humans as agents in the execution of his ungodly purposes, and his final defeat is assured. (Isa. 14:12-27; Matt. 4:1-3; 2 Cor. 4:4; 11:3-4,13-15; Eph. 2:2; 2 Peter 2:4; Rev. 12:9; 20:10)
Section T - Partisan Political Activity
WE BELIEVE that all Christians should educate themselves regarding civil and moral issues of the day, researching these matters thoroughly for themselves rather than accepting anyone else’s written/verbal opinions, emails, newsletters, etc. at face value.
Having said this, we believe that it is our Christian duty to vote, and to vote for the candidates who are competent, those who are substantially aligned with our Christian beliefs, and those who respect the founding documents of our country.
We believe Christians should contact their elected officials via meetings, phone calls, emails, or websites when they wish to convey their opinions and/or concerns regarding current issues. When communicating with elected officials, we believe that each communication should be clear, concise, polite and respectful.
We believe that God is not the property of any political party or candidate. While preaching and teaching on moral and civil issues is the duty of the church, anyone who speaks on behalf of the church, whether through preaching, teaching or in any other official capacity, will not in any way become involved in partisan political activity while preaching or teaching (e.g., comments of a partisan nature which endorse or condemn a particular candidate or political party, handing out inflammatory partisan flyers, newsletters, etc.)
Finally, we believe that Christians are to pray for our elected and appointed leaders regardless of political orientation since these men and women carry the burden of governing.