Our Practices
Beliefs are not worth much unless they are translated into
actions. Based on what the Bible teaches, we feel very strongly about the following seven practices:
A. Bible as our sole authority
Since God’s Word is the only completely reliable and truthful authority, we accept the Bible as our manual for living. Our first question when faced with a decision is, “What does the Bible say?” We practice daily Bible reading, Bible study, and Bible memorization. The Bible is the basis for all we believe.
“And how from infancy you have known the holy Scripture, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” II Timothy 3:15
B. Autonomy of each local church
Christ is the recognized Head of our church, not any person, group, or religious organization. While recognizing the value of associating and cooperating with other groups of Christians, we believe every local church should be self-governing and independent from any denominational control.
“And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy.” Colossians 1:18
C. Priesthood of every believer
The Bible teaches that every Christian is called to “full time” Christian service, regardless of his or her vocation. We practice the truth that every believer is a minister by encouraging every member to find a place of service and ministry. Every believer has direct access to God through prayer and Bible reading.
“And has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father . . .” Revelation 1:6
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” I Peter 2:9
D. Tithing
God does not have to have our money; it’s our obedience He seeks. We practice tithing for the support of Christ’s Body, the church, as God commands. We recognize that giving 10% of our income is the Biblical standard of giving.
“A tithe of everything you produce belongs to the Lord, -- it is holy to the Lord.” Leviticus 27:30
“Ever since the time of your forefathers you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the LORD Almighty. “But you ask, ‘How are we to return?’“ Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me. “But you ask, ‘How do we rob you?’“ In tithes and offerings.” Malachi 3:7-8
E. Immersion
“Having been buried with him in baptism and raised with him through your faith in the power of God, who raised him from the dead.” Colossians 2:12
F. Spirit-led living
We believe the only way possible to live the Christian life is by God's power within us. So we seek to practice a daily dependence on God's Spirit to enable us to do what is right. (Philippians 2:13, Ephesians 5:18)
“I am the Vine, you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit: but apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5
G. Telling others about Christ
It is the responsibility of every Christian to share the Good News with those whom God brings us into contact. We practice personal sharing about Christ and inviting friends to church.
“ . . . Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” I Peter 3:15
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