Statement of Beliefs
The statement of beliefs outlined here constitutes our understanding of the teaching of Scripture about our relationship with God. It should not be viewed as a creed, for we accept the Bible itself as our only creed. We believe no statement of faith should supersede the authority of the Scriptures nor be binding upon the consciences of people. For practical purposes, however, it is important to articulate our beliefs.
The five essential doctrines we believe the Bible teaches:
1. What we believe about God.
There is one God, who is infinite spirit; self-existent, all-present, all-knowing, all-powerful. He is wise, just, and merciful. He is inexpressibly glorious in love and purity. God is eternally existent in a compound unity comprised of three persons of one substance: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
God, the Father, is the creator, preserver, and sovereign of the universe.
References: Genesis 1:26-27; Genesis 3:22; Psalm 90:2; Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14; 1 Peter 1:2.
God, the Son, was manifest in human form in the person of Jesus of Nazareth, who was conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He was fully God and fully human. He lived a sinless life, and through His death on the cross he made an offering for the sins of the world, reconciling people to God. He arose from the dead, ascended to heaven, and will return again to bring utopia to the earth. He is the world’s Redeemer and the Saviour of all who believe.
References: John 1:1-5; John 14:10-30; Hebrews 4:14-15; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4; Romans 1:3-4; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Timothy 6:14-15; Titus 2:13.
God, the Holy Spirit, is the person through whom God’s presence and power are experienced in human hearts. He is present in the world to make people aware of their need for Jesus Christ. He is present in every Christian providing power for living, understanding of spiritual truth, and guidance for doing what is right. He is present in the church with gifts to edify and equip believers for growth and ministry. Believers seek to live under His gracious control daily.
References: John 14:16-17; John 16:7-13; Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 2:12; 1 Corinthians 3:16–17; Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 1:13; Ephesians 5:18.