2. What we believe about the Bible.
The Bible, comprised of the Old and New Testaments, has its authority from God and is given by divine inspiration. Its main theme is God’s provision of salvation through Jesus Christ. The Bible is the only infallible and sufficient standard of faith and practice.
References: 2 Timothy 1:13; 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Psalm 119:105,160; Proverbs 30:5.
3. What we believe about salvation.
Humans were created in the image of God—innocent and pure. When Adam and Eve chose to disobey God, that image was marred, though not lost. Though they were capable of doing good, they were incapable of not doing wrong.
The flawed nature was transmitted to the whole human race, resulting in death and separation from God. The human race is in need of forgiveness so that harmony and fellowship with God might be restored and in need of being rescued from the curse of death.
Atonement: Through his sinless life, death on the cross, and resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ made the perfect redemptive act for the world's sins. Humans are declared not guilty before God on the condition of faith in Jesus Christ. His redemptive act is inclusive of all cultures, religions, and people groups.
Repentance: Being moved by the Holy Spirit, a person experiences remorse for her/his independence and sin and humbly returns to God to walk in His ways.
Faith: The gracious gift of God, faith is the trust of the heart in the Lord Jesus Christ. More than mere intellectual assent, it is the absolute surrender of trust to the lordship of Christ.
Regeneration: Regeneration is the birth of spiritual life in the human heart through the incoming of the Holy Spirit. This union of the Holy Spirit with the human spirit takes place at the point of repentance and faith.
Sanctification: Sanctification is the process of spiritual growth in a believer’s life. It begins in regeneration and progresses in the heart by surrender to the gracious control of the Holy Spirit. This growth is cultivated also through an understanding and application of the principles of God’s Word and prayer.
Glorification: Glorification is the restoration to innocence and perfection. It will happen at the return of Jesus Christ and the resurrection of the righteous.
References: Isaiah 53:3-6; John 1:12; Romans 3:23; 5:1; 6:23; Ephesians 2:8-9; Colossians 1:15-22; Titus 3:5-6; Galatians 3:26; 2 Corinthians 5:19,21.