Purpose
At Matamoras Bible Church our purpose is to exalt or glorify God by discipling those who are committed to edifying one another, equipping faithful believers, and evangelizing unbelievers.
Core Beliefs
The Holy Scriptures
We believe the Scriptures - both the Old and New Testaments (66 books) - to be the verbally inspired Word of God, written by men in God’s control, inerrant and infallible, in the whole and in the part, in all areas (including creation, science, geography, chronology, history, and in all other matters in which it speaks), in the original manuscripts, and the complete and final authority in faith and life. We accept the grammatical-historical-literal system of interpretation of the Scriptures, and accept the historical record of the Bible as accurate and adequate.
(1 Thessalonians 2:13; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Psalms 19:7-9; Revelation 22:18-19)
Biblical Dispensations
We believe that the Scriptures interpreted in their natural, literal sense, reveal divinely determined dispensations, which are ordered stewardships, or rules of life (not ways of salvation), by which God administers His purpose on Earth through man under varying responsibilities in successive ages. Each dispensation begins with man being divinely placed in a new position of privilege and responsibility, and each closes with a failure of man resulting in righteous judgment from God. These dispensations, or rules of life, are generally understood to be: Innocence, Conscience (Moral Responsibility), Human Government, Promise, Law, the present dispensation of the Church Age (Grace), and the future dispensation of the Millennial Kingdom. They are distinct and are not to be intermingled or confused, as they are chronologically successive. (John 1:17; 1 Corinthians 9:17; 2 Corinthians 3:9-18; Galatians 3:13-25; Ephesians 1:10; Colossians 1:24, 25; Hebrews 7:19; Revelation 20:2-6)
Creation
We believe in the Biblical account of a “young” creation (about 6000 years old) of the universe in six literal, solar days (24-hour periods); that God created by His Word the heavens, the earth, and all their hosts, without preexisting materials; that man was created by a direct act of God; that all humans were present in Adam when he was created; that new individuals (in all their parts) come into existence today, not by a continuing creation, but through the laws of propagation established by God; that each individual is a living person from the moment of conception; that all forms of evolutionary hypotheses are serious errors which strike at the very person and glory of God. (Genesis 1:1-31; 2:7; 5:3; Exodus 20:11; Hebrews 11:3; Psalms 139:13-16; Luke 1:41,44; John 1:3; Colossians 1:15-17; Hebrews 11:3)
The Godhead
We believe in one Eternal God who exists in three Persons who are identical in essence, equal in power and glory, and possess precisely the same attributes and perfections. These three Persons are the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19; Luke 3:22; 2 Corinthians 13:14)
The Condition of Man
We believe that man was created in the image and likeness of God, in innocence and without sin. But in Adam’s sin the human race fell, inherited a sinful nature and became spiritually dead and alienated from God so that man is a sinner by both nature and imputation, thereby justly condemned to eternal damnation without defense or excuse, and man, of himself, is incapable of remedying his sinful condition by his own means. (Genesis 1:26; 3:1-24; Romans 3:10-18; 5:12, 9; Ephesians 2:1-3; Titus 3:5)
The Person and Work of Christ
We believe that God demands a life of perfect obedience to His law; i.e., complete and total righteousness. Thus, God the Son had to become man in order to provide for us what God the Father’s holy nature (and self-consistency) demanded - perfect righteousness. Thus, the Lord Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, became man without ceasing to be God; having been conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of a virgin, in order that He might reveal God and redeem sinful man. He accomplished this redemption by voluntarily giving Himself as a sinless substitutionary sacrifice on the cross, thereby satisfying God’s righteous judgment against sin. He gave proof that He accomplished that redemption by His bodily resurrection[1] from the grave. He then ascended to the right hand of His Father where He intercedes on behalf of those who have believed on Him. (John 1:1, 2, 14, 18; Luke 1:34,35; 24:36-43; Romans 2:12,13; 3:24-26; 8:34; Hebrews 4:14-16; 2 Corinthians 5:21)
The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit
We believe that the Holy Spirit is the Divine Person who convicts the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment; that He alone brings new life to those who are spiritually dead; that He baptizes (or places) all believers into the one true Church, which is the Body of Christ; that He indwells them permanently, seals them unto the day of redemption, bestows spiritual gifts upon them, and fills (controls) those who are yielding to Him to empower for Christian life and service. As the Divine Teacher He guides believers into all truth. (John 3:3-8; 16:7-13; Acts 5:3,4; Ephesians 4:5; Romans 8:9; John 14:16,17; Ephesians 4:30; 1 Corinthians 12:7-11,13; Ephesians 3:16; 5:18; Galatians 5:22-23)
Satan and the Fallen Angels
We believe that God created an innumerable company of spiritual beings, known as angels; that one, Lucifer, the highest in rank, sinned through pride, and thereby became Satan; that a great company of the angels followed him in his moral fall; that some became demons and are active as his agents and associates in the prosecution of his unholy purposes; and that others who fell are “reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day” (Revelation 12:1-10; 2 Peter 2:4; Jude 1:6). We believe that Satan is the author of sin and, under the permission of God, was the deceiver of Eve in the Fall; that he is the open and declared enemy of God and man; and that he shall be eternally punished in the Lake of Fire (Job 1:6-7; Isaiah 14:12-17; Ezekiel 28:11-19; Matthew 4:2-11; John 12:31; Rev. 20:10). In his warfare, he appears as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:13-15), counterfeiting the works of God by fostering religious movements and systems of doctrine (1 Timothy 4:1-3), and that these doctrines are characterized by a denial of the efficacy of the atoning sacrifice of Christ, of salvation by grace alone, and the deity of Christ.
Salvation
We believe that salvation is the gift of God’s grace given to all who believe on the Son. It includes all that God does in saving the sinner from the penalty, power, and presence of sin, and in restoring him or her to a right relationship with God. It cannot be gained by good works, but is a free gift for all who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross. All who put their faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord have been forgiven and saved from their sins and declared righteous (or justified) by God, and have been born into the family of God by the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit. God’s purpose for those who are saved is that they bring glory to Him by their lives. (Romans 1:16; 10:17; Acts 16:14b; Ephesians 1:7; 2:8,9; John 1:12,13; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Titus 2:11-14; 3:5-7; 1 Peter 1:18-19; John 5:40; 6:44; 3:36; 5:24;
1 John 5:1)
Security, Assurance, and Human Responsibility
We believe that all the saved—those in whom God has accomplished His transforming work of grace—should persevere in faith and holiness to the end of their life on earth, thereby proving their love for the Lord. They can also have assurance of their salvation which is based on the promises of God as declared in His Word. This assurance, however, is not the occasion for sin, for God in holiness cannot tolerate willful and/or persistent sin in His children, and in infinite love He corrects them. True faith in Christ is always expressed by a fruitful, God-pleasing life. (John 15:1-4; 1 John 5:13; Hebrews 12:6; James 2:20; 2 Peter 1:5-7)
The Eternal State
We believe that at death the souls of those who have trusted Christ for salvation pass immediately into His presence and remain there in conscious bliss until the resurrection of the body at Christ’s coming for the Church, when soul and body will be reunited. We then shall be with Him forever in glory. We also believe that at death the souls of unbelievers remain in conscious misery until the final judgment of the great white throne at the close of the millennium when the soul and body will be reunited and cast into the Lake of Fire – not to be annihilated, but to be separated from God forever in conscious punishment. (Luke 16:19-26; 2 Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:21-23; John 5:28-29; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9; Matthew 25:46; Revelation 20:11-15)
Sanctification
We believe that God, in the Scriptures, has given us everything pertaining to life and godliness. This includes salvation from the penalty of sin, and just as surely, the provision of sanctification (separation) from sin. Sanctification from sin affects both the positional and practical aspects. Positional sanctification (i.e., justification) as a work of the Holy Spirit is complete and is without further growth; however, practical sanctification (i.e., progressive sanctification), a result of the work of the Spirit in regeneration using the Word of God, provides the nourishment for growth in maturity in Christ. While practical sanctification is assured by the Word and the Spirit, it is yet imperfect in this life. There is some element of corruption in every part of the fallen nature which is the source for the war between the flesh and the spirit. The maturing to obedience is possible for believers as they feed on the Word, submit to the Spirit of God, and are in fellowship with other believers for service and accountability. (John 17:17;
1 Corinthians 1:30; Romans 6:19, 22; Hebrews 10:25; 1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 1:3)
The Church
We believe that the true Church, called in Scripture the Body of Christ, of whom Christ is the Head, is a spiritual organism and free from any external authority or control. Every person who has trusted Jesus Christ for salvation in this present age has been baptized (placed) into this organism by the Holy Spirit. The local expression of the church, as established in Scripture, is made up of redeemed individuals who have joined together for instruction, fellowship, and service, exhibiting the true love of God to others (Ephesians 1:22,23; 5:25-32; 1 Corinthians 12:12,13; Acts 2:42; 13:1,2). Therefore, the essence of the Church is believers, as the Body of Christ, seeking an ongoing right relationship with Christ and others in their hearts, minds, and actions. We believe the purpose, or function, of the Church is to exalt or glorify God by discipling those who are committed to edifying one another, equipping faithful believers, and evangelizing unbelievers. A biblical church is not focused on property, personality, or programs but on believers. When gathered together they are to edify one another; and when scattered in their community, they are to evangelize unbelievers.
Ordinances
We believe that our Lord Jesus Christ instituted two ordinances to be observed by all believers until His return - water baptism (by immersion) to show forth our identification with the crucified, buried, and risen Savior (Matthew 28:19; Romans 6:3-5; Colossians 2:12) and the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:17-34).
Giving
We believe that New Testaments believers should give financially as they purpose in their hearts, not with grudging obligation or of necessity, but with a cheerful heart of love (2 Corinthians
9:5-7). We believe that believers are encouraged to consider supporting faithful widows, orphans, and others in the fellowship who, for financial means beyond their control, are unable to support themselves (1 Timothy 5:3-10; James 1:27).
The Christian Life
We believe that a Christian should desire to live a life of righteousness, good works, and separation unto God from the evil ways of the world (Romans 12:1,2), manifested by speaking the truth (James 5:12), maintaining the sanctity of the home (Ephesians 5:22-6:4), settling differences between Christians in accordance with the Word of God (1 Corinthians 6:1-8) and not engaging in carnal strife but showing a Christ-like attitude toward all men (Romans 12:17-21), exhibiting the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22,23), and maintaining a life of prayer (Ephesians 6:18; Philippians 4:6).
The Ministry and Spiritual Gifts
We believe that God is sovereign in the bestowment of all His gifts; and, that the gifts of evangelists, Pastor-teachers are sufficient for the perfecting of the saints today; and, that speaking in tongues and the working of sign miracles gradually ceased as the New Testament Scriptures were completed and their authority became established. (1 Corinthians 12:4-11;
2 Corinthians 12:12; Ephesians 4:7-12)
The Rapture and Second Coming of Christ
We believe in the “blessed hope” which is the imminent, personal, pre-tribulational coming of the Lord Jesus Christ for His Church, the Body of Christ, at which time the dead in Christ will be raised and the living saints will be translated to meet the Lord in the air. (John 14:3; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 4:13-18; Titus 2:13; Revelation 3:10)We further believe in the personal, pre-millennial, visible and glorious return of Jesus Christ to the earth with His saints at the end of the great tribulation. When He comes with His saints, we believe that Christ will establish His millennial Kingdom, and will reign on earth for one thousand years (Revelation 19:11-16; 20:1-6).
Missions and Evangelism
We believe that it is the obligation of the saved to witness by life and by word to the truths of Holy Scripture and to seek to proclaim the gospel to all mankind (Mark 16:15; Acts 1:8; 2 Corinthians 5:19,20). Whereas edification and equipping the believer is a primary function of the church when gathered, evangelism of the unbeliever is the primary function of the church when scattered. We also believe that the sending of missionaries is a local church function (just as it is the responsibility of the local church to conduct church discipline) and, therefore, is not absolved when delegated to a mission board or agency.
Movements Contrary to the Faith
We are opposed to all forms of theological compromise such as, apostasy, liberalism, modernism, ecumenical evangelism,[1] neo-orthodoxy,[2] neo-evangelicalism,[3] the charismatic movement, ecumenical movement, the emerging/emergent church,[4] etc. We believe that all are out of harmony with the Word of God, and are inimical to the Word of God.
Separation
We believe that all the saved should live in such a manner as not to bring reproach upon their Savior and Lord; and, that separation from all religious apostasy, all worldly and sinful pleasures, practices and associations is commanded of God (2 Timothy 3:1-5; Romans 12:1-2; Romans 14:13; John 2:15-17; 2 John 1:9-11; 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1).
[1] Ecumenism/Ecumenical Evangelism: Ecumenism is that movement which seeks the organizational unity of all Christianity and ultimately of all religions. Its principal advocates are the World Council of Churches and the National Council of Churches in the United States of America. Ecumenical evangelism is an effort to promote the gospel by those who insist upon the authoritative Word of God and salvation by grace in Christ alone by faith alone; and cooperate with those who reject the doctrine of Biblical inspiration and/or espouse sacramental salvation.
[2] Neo-Orthodoxy: Neo-Orthodoxy seeks to close the gap between modernism and fundamentalism by expressing itself in the terms of orthodoxy while redefining its historical concepts with the substance of modernism; i.e., neo-orthodoxy affirms the transcendence of God, the finiteness and sinfulness of man, and the necessity of supernatural Divine revelation of truth, yet it seriously departs from orthodoxy in accepting the views of destructive higher criticism, in denying the inerrancy of the Bible as historic revelation, in accepting religious experience as the criterion of truth, and in abandoning important fundamentals of the Christian faith.
[3] Neo-Evangelicalism: Neo-Evangelicalism is that movement within evangelicalism characterized by a toleration of and a dialogue with theological liberalism. Its essence is seen in an emphasis upon the social application of the gospel and weak or unclear doctrines of the inspiration of Scripture, biblical creationism, eschatology, dispensationalism, “biblical” feminism, and separation. It is further characterized by an attempt to accommodate biblical Christianity and make it acceptable to the modern mind.
[4] The emerging/emergent church crosses denominational boundaries (since it is both interdenominational and nondenominational) and national boundaries (since it is international). In addition, emerging/emergent churches represent a wide assortment of theological positions (ranging from evangelical to liberal) and an even more extensive mixture of methodologies.
The emerging/emergent church falls into line with basic post-modernist thinking — it is about experience over reason, subjectivity over objectivity, spirituality over religion, images over words, outward over inward, feelings over truth. The emerging/emergent church generally can be divided into two basic groups: evangelical and liberal. Evangelical emerging churches still embrace the gospel and generally hold to the fundamentals of the orthodox faith. They essentially intend to minister “to” and “with” post-moderns. The more liberal wing of the emerging church tends to deny (or at least seriously question) the essentials of Christianity. This form of the emerging church is a liberal “reformation” to overthrow conservative evangelicalism and fundamentalism. This is a new face of theological liberalism made relevant for post-moderns. Basically, emergent leaders intend to minister “as” post-moderns.
Fraternal Organizations
We are firmly opposed to all societies, lodges and organizations of an un-Christian or anti-Christian character. We avoid Membership or participation in any organization that in its objectives, ceremonies or practices is inimical to the Gospel of Jesus Christ or the faith and life of the Christian church.
Music
We believe God is the origin of music. In the context of the Church, the purpose of music is an expression of our love to God, our worship of God, and our ministry to believers. Since music has a moral aspect, it can be good or bad; it, therefore, has a spiritual dimension and we will give an account to God for the music we play and sing. Since believers are instructed to judge all things, we should evaluate music in the light of the principles of God’s Word. In order to maintain the unity of the church with regard to the tastes and preferences of music, believers are exhorted to practice the principles of edification, sacrifice their personal freedoms, give preference to the needs of others and avoid diligently all forms of evil. (Colossians 1:16; Luke 10:27; John 4:24; Colossians 3:16-17; Matthew 15:18-19; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 1 Corinthians 2:13-14; 1 Thessalonians 5:22; 1 Corinthians 10:23-24; 1 Corinthians 8:9, 12; Romans 14:19)
Attitude toward Civil Government
We believe that God has ordained and created all authority consisting of three basic institutions: the home; the Church; and the state. Every person is subject to these authorities, but all (including the authorities themselves) are answerable to God and governed by His Word. God has given each institution specific Biblical responsibilities and balanced those responsibilities with the understanding that no institution has the right to infringe upon the other. The home, the Church, and the state are equal and sovereign in their respective Biblically assigned spheres of responsibility under God. We believe that civil government is ordained of God for the good of human society to promote and protect righteousness and to restrain and punish evil. Therefore, we consider it the duty of Christians to pray for those that are in authority over them and to give due loyalty, respect, and obedience to them. However, where the demands of civil law would militate against the supreme law and will of God, Christians should obey God rather than man. (Daniel 4:17; Matthew 22:17-21; Acts 4:19, 5:29; Romans 13:1-7; 1 Timothy 2:1-4; Acts 23:5; Titus 3:1; 1 Peter 2:13,14)
Politics
We believe that it is the privilege and responsibility of every individual Christian to be active in the civic and political processes of our land. Rights guaranteed by our Founding Fathers and responsibilities mandated by our heavenly Father demand the wholehearted investment of ourselves and our resources in defining our values and defending our freedoms, including but not limited to campaigning, financial support, personal endorsements, voting, and the holding of political office. (Ecclesiastes 9:10; Matthew 5:13-16)
Love
We believe that we should demonstrate love for others, not only toward fellow believers, but also toward both those who are not believers, those who oppose us, and those who engage in sinful actions. We are to deal with those who oppose us graciously, gently, patiently, and humbly. God forbids the stirring up of strife, the taking of revenge, or the threat or the use of violence as a means of resolving personal conflict or obtaining personal justice. Although God commands us to abhor sinful actions, we are to love and pray for any person who engages in such sinful actions. (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 5:44-48; Luke 6:31; John 13:34-35; Romans 12:9-10;17-21; 13:8-10; Philippians 2:2-4; 2 Timothy 2:24-26; Titus 3:2; 1 John 3:17-18)
Family
We believe that men and women are of equal importance and value before God, and that God has assigned distinct and different roles in the home for the husband and for the wife. The husband is commanded to be the leader of the home, to love and give himself for his wife, and to be the provider for the family. The wife is to be in a position of submission to the husband, who is the head of their home, to be a help-meet to the husband and to be a keeper of the home. Children are to be obedient to parents and to honor their parents. It is the God-given responsibility of the parents to love, educate, and discipline their children. (Genesis 2:18; Proverbs 19:18; 22:6,15; 23:13,14; Ephesians 5:22-6:4; Galatians 3:28; Colossians 3:18-21; 1 Timothy 3:4-5, 12; 5:8; Titus 2:4,5)
Marriage, Divorce & Remarriage
We believe that marriage is the holy union ordained of God between one man and one woman. God commands that believers marry only other believers. God intends for the marriage to continue until the husband and wife are separated by death, at which time the surviving partner is free to remarry. We believe that God hates divorce, and that divorce and remarriage are regarded as adultery except in circumstances involving fornication (any sexual relationship outside of marriage, including homosexuality, bestiality, and incest). We believe God permits divorce in cases where an unbelieving mate does not desire to live with his or her believing spouse (1 Corinthians 7:12-15). Because “the brother or sister is not under bondage in such cases” (1 Corinthians 7:15) remarriage is allowed. We further hold that as long as there is the possibility of reconciliation, it should be pursued. (Malachi 2:11-17; Matthew 19:3-12; Romans 7:1-3; 2 Corinthians 6:14-15; 1 Timothy 3:1-13)
Human Sexuality
We believe that God created us male and female. With neither malice nor prejudice toward any one individual, we believe that God has created human sexuality and has established sexual relations as an honorable part of the marriage relationship between one man and one woman. God has commanded that there be no sexual activity outside of marriage. We believe that adultery, bestiality, bisexuality, fornication, homosexuality, incest, lesbianism, pornography, rape, and all other sexual actions or relations outside of the marriage relationship between one man and one woman are perversions of human sexuality; and all these are sinful. (Genesis 2:22-25; Genesis 19:4-13; Exodus 20:14; Leviticus 18:1-30; Romans 1:26-32; 7:2; 1 Corinthians 5:1-2; 6:9-10; 7:1-40; 1 Thessalonians 4:1-7; Hebrews 13:4; Ephesians 5:22-28)
Abortion
We believe that human life begins at conception and that the unborn child is a living human being with an eternal soul. Abortion is murder, the unjustifiable and ungodly killing of an innocent child. We reject any teaching that abortions of pregnancies due to rape, incest, birth defects, gender selection, birth or population control or the mental well-being of the mother are acceptable. (Job 3:16); Psalm 51:5; 139:14-16; Isaiah 44:24; 49:1,5; Jeremiah 1:5; 20:15-18; Luke 1:44)
Euthanasia
We believe that the direct taking of an innocent human life is a moral evil, regardless of the intention. Life is a gift of God and must be respected from conception until natural death. Thus, we believe that an act or omission which, of itself or by intention, causes death in order to eliminate suffering constitutes a murder contrary to the will of God. Discontinuing extraordinary medical procedures, however, may at time be legitimate. (Exodus 20:13; 23:7; Matthew 5:21; Acts 17:28)
Education
We believe that all truth is God’s truth and that there is no true education without God’s truth, the Word of God. It is the God-given responsibility of parents to rear their children and to diligently educate their children from a Biblical, God-centered perspective. In contrast, we understand secular humanism, which is prevalent in the society of our day, to be a man-centered religious worldview based on atheism, naturalism, evolution and ethical relativism. We reject secular humanism as an ungodly and corrupt philosophy in opposition to the Word of God and intolerable to obedient followers of Jesus Christ. (Deuteronomy 6:4-14; Psalm 119:9,11,105,130; Proverbs 22:6; John 17:17; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16,17)
Conflict Resolution
We believe that Christians are prohibited from bringing civil lawsuits against other Christians or the Church to resolve disputes. We believe the Church possesses all the resources necessary to resolve disputes between Members. We do believe, however, that a Christian may seek compensation for injuries from another Christian’s insurance company as long as the claim is pursued without malice or slander (Matthew 18:15-17).
We believe the Scriptures - both the Old and New Testaments (66 books) - to be the verbally inspired Word of God, written by men in God’s control, inerrant and infallible, in the whole and in the part, in all areas (including creation, science, geography, chronology, history, and in all other matters in which it speaks), in the original manuscripts, and the complete and final authority in faith and life. We accept the grammatical-historical-literal system of interpretation of the Scriptures, and accept the historical record of the Bible as accurate and adequate.
(1 Thessalonians 2:13; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Psalms 19:7-9; Revelation 22:18-19)
Biblical Dispensations
We believe that the Scriptures interpreted in their natural, literal sense, reveal divinely determined dispensations, which are ordered stewardships, or rules of life (not ways of salvation), by which God administers His purpose on Earth through man under varying responsibilities in successive ages. Each dispensation begins with man being divinely placed in a new position of privilege and responsibility, and each closes with a failure of man resulting in righteous judgment from God. These dispensations, or rules of life, are generally understood to be: Innocence, Conscience (Moral Responsibility), Human Government, Promise, Law, the present dispensation of the Church Age (Grace), and the future dispensation of the Millennial Kingdom. They are distinct and are not to be intermingled or confused, as they are chronologically successive. (John 1:17; 1 Corinthians 9:17; 2 Corinthians 3:9-18; Galatians 3:13-25; Ephesians 1:10; Colossians 1:24, 25; Hebrews 7:19; Revelation 20:2-6)
Creation
We believe in the Biblical account of a “young” creation (about 6000 years old) of the universe in six literal, solar days (24-hour periods); that God created by His Word the heavens, the earth, and all their hosts, without preexisting materials; that man was created by a direct act of God; that all humans were present in Adam when he was created; that new individuals (in all their parts) come into existence today, not by a continuing creation, but through the laws of propagation established by God; that each individual is a living person from the moment of conception; that all forms of evolutionary hypotheses are serious errors which strike at the very person and glory of God. (Genesis 1:1-31; 2:7; 5:3; Exodus 20:11; Hebrews 11:3; Psalms 139:13-16; Luke 1:41,44; John 1:3; Colossians 1:15-17; Hebrews 11:3)
The Godhead
We believe in one Eternal God who exists in three Persons who are identical in essence, equal in power and glory, and possess precisely the same attributes and perfections. These three Persons are the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. (Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19; Luke 3:22; 2 Corinthians 13:14)
The Condition of Man
We believe that man was created in the image and likeness of God, in innocence and without sin. But in Adam’s sin the human race fell, inherited a sinful nature and became spiritually dead and alienated from God so that man is a sinner by both nature and imputation, thereby justly condemned to eternal damnation without defense or excuse, and man, of himself, is incapable of remedying his sinful condition by his own means. (Genesis 1:26; 3:1-24; Romans 3:10-18; 5:12, 9; Ephesians 2:1-3; Titus 3:5)
The Person and Work of Christ
We believe that God demands a life of perfect obedience to His law; i.e., complete and total righteousness. Thus, God the Son had to become man in order to provide for us what God the Father’s holy nature (and self-consistency) demanded - perfect righteousness. Thus, the Lord Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, became man without ceasing to be God; having been conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of a virgin, in order that He might reveal God and redeem sinful man. He accomplished this redemption by voluntarily giving Himself as a sinless substitutionary sacrifice on the cross, thereby satisfying God’s righteous judgment against sin. He gave proof that He accomplished that redemption by His bodily resurrection[1] from the grave. He then ascended to the right hand of His Father where He intercedes on behalf of those who have believed on Him. (John 1:1, 2, 14, 18; Luke 1:34,35; 24:36-43; Romans 2:12,13; 3:24-26; 8:34; Hebrews 4:14-16; 2 Corinthians 5:21)
The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit
We believe that the Holy Spirit is the Divine Person who convicts the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment; that He alone brings new life to those who are spiritually dead; that He baptizes (or places) all believers into the one true Church, which is the Body of Christ; that He indwells them permanently, seals them unto the day of redemption, bestows spiritual gifts upon them, and fills (controls) those who are yielding to Him to empower for Christian life and service. As the Divine Teacher He guides believers into all truth. (John 3:3-8; 16:7-13; Acts 5:3,4; Ephesians 4:5; Romans 8:9; John 14:16,17; Ephesians 4:30; 1 Corinthians 12:7-11,13; Ephesians 3:16; 5:18; Galatians 5:22-23)
Satan and the Fallen Angels
We believe that God created an innumerable company of spiritual beings, known as angels; that one, Lucifer, the highest in rank, sinned through pride, and thereby became Satan; that a great company of the angels followed him in his moral fall; that some became demons and are active as his agents and associates in the prosecution of his unholy purposes; and that others who fell are “reserved in everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day” (Revelation 12:1-10; 2 Peter 2:4; Jude 1:6). We believe that Satan is the author of sin and, under the permission of God, was the deceiver of Eve in the Fall; that he is the open and declared enemy of God and man; and that he shall be eternally punished in the Lake of Fire (Job 1:6-7; Isaiah 14:12-17; Ezekiel 28:11-19; Matthew 4:2-11; John 12:31; Rev. 20:10). In his warfare, he appears as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:13-15), counterfeiting the works of God by fostering religious movements and systems of doctrine (1 Timothy 4:1-3), and that these doctrines are characterized by a denial of the efficacy of the atoning sacrifice of Christ, of salvation by grace alone, and the deity of Christ.
Salvation
We believe that salvation is the gift of God’s grace given to all who believe on the Son. It includes all that God does in saving the sinner from the penalty, power, and presence of sin, and in restoring him or her to a right relationship with God. It cannot be gained by good works, but is a free gift for all who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross. All who put their faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord have been forgiven and saved from their sins and declared righteous (or justified) by God, and have been born into the family of God by the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit. God’s purpose for those who are saved is that they bring glory to Him by their lives. (Romans 1:16; 10:17; Acts 16:14b; Ephesians 1:7; 2:8,9; John 1:12,13; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Titus 2:11-14; 3:5-7; 1 Peter 1:18-19; John 5:40; 6:44; 3:36; 5:24;
1 John 5:1)
Security, Assurance, and Human Responsibility
We believe that all the saved—those in whom God has accomplished His transforming work of grace—should persevere in faith and holiness to the end of their life on earth, thereby proving their love for the Lord. They can also have assurance of their salvation which is based on the promises of God as declared in His Word. This assurance, however, is not the occasion for sin, for God in holiness cannot tolerate willful and/or persistent sin in His children, and in infinite love He corrects them. True faith in Christ is always expressed by a fruitful, God-pleasing life. (John 15:1-4; 1 John 5:13; Hebrews 12:6; James 2:20; 2 Peter 1:5-7)
The Eternal State
We believe that at death the souls of those who have trusted Christ for salvation pass immediately into His presence and remain there in conscious bliss until the resurrection of the body at Christ’s coming for the Church, when soul and body will be reunited. We then shall be with Him forever in glory. We also believe that at death the souls of unbelievers remain in conscious misery until the final judgment of the great white throne at the close of the millennium when the soul and body will be reunited and cast into the Lake of Fire – not to be annihilated, but to be separated from God forever in conscious punishment. (Luke 16:19-26; 2 Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:21-23; John 5:28-29; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9; Matthew 25:46; Revelation 20:11-15)
Sanctification
We believe that God, in the Scriptures, has given us everything pertaining to life and godliness. This includes salvation from the penalty of sin, and just as surely, the provision of sanctification (separation) from sin. Sanctification from sin affects both the positional and practical aspects. Positional sanctification (i.e., justification) as a work of the Holy Spirit is complete and is without further growth; however, practical sanctification (i.e., progressive sanctification), a result of the work of the Spirit in regeneration using the Word of God, provides the nourishment for growth in maturity in Christ. While practical sanctification is assured by the Word and the Spirit, it is yet imperfect in this life. There is some element of corruption in every part of the fallen nature which is the source for the war between the flesh and the spirit. The maturing to obedience is possible for believers as they feed on the Word, submit to the Spirit of God, and are in fellowship with other believers for service and accountability. (John 17:17;
1 Corinthians 1:30; Romans 6:19, 22; Hebrews 10:25; 1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 1:3)
The Church
We believe that the true Church, called in Scripture the Body of Christ, of whom Christ is the Head, is a spiritual organism and free from any external authority or control. Every person who has trusted Jesus Christ for salvation in this present age has been baptized (placed) into this organism by the Holy Spirit. The local expression of the church, as established in Scripture, is made up of redeemed individuals who have joined together for instruction, fellowship, and service, exhibiting the true love of God to others (Ephesians 1:22,23; 5:25-32; 1 Corinthians 12:12,13; Acts 2:42; 13:1,2). Therefore, the essence of the Church is believers, as the Body of Christ, seeking an ongoing right relationship with Christ and others in their hearts, minds, and actions. We believe the purpose, or function, of the Church is to exalt or glorify God by discipling those who are committed to edifying one another, equipping faithful believers, and evangelizing unbelievers. A biblical church is not focused on property, personality, or programs but on believers. When gathered together they are to edify one another; and when scattered in their community, they are to evangelize unbelievers.
Ordinances
We believe that our Lord Jesus Christ instituted two ordinances to be observed by all believers until His return - water baptism (by immersion) to show forth our identification with the crucified, buried, and risen Savior (Matthew 28:19; Romans 6:3-5; Colossians 2:12) and the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:17-34).
Giving
We believe that New Testaments believers should give financially as they purpose in their hearts, not with grudging obligation or of necessity, but with a cheerful heart of love (2 Corinthians
9:5-7). We believe that believers are encouraged to consider supporting faithful widows, orphans, and others in the fellowship who, for financial means beyond their control, are unable to support themselves (1 Timothy 5:3-10; James 1:27).
The Christian Life
We believe that a Christian should desire to live a life of righteousness, good works, and separation unto God from the evil ways of the world (Romans 12:1,2), manifested by speaking the truth (James 5:12), maintaining the sanctity of the home (Ephesians 5:22-6:4), settling differences between Christians in accordance with the Word of God (1 Corinthians 6:1-8) and not engaging in carnal strife but showing a Christ-like attitude toward all men (Romans 12:17-21), exhibiting the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22,23), and maintaining a life of prayer (Ephesians 6:18; Philippians 4:6).
The Ministry and Spiritual Gifts
We believe that God is sovereign in the bestowment of all His gifts; and, that the gifts of evangelists, Pastor-teachers are sufficient for the perfecting of the saints today; and, that speaking in tongues and the working of sign miracles gradually ceased as the New Testament Scriptures were completed and their authority became established. (1 Corinthians 12:4-11;
2 Corinthians 12:12; Ephesians 4:7-12)
The Rapture and Second Coming of Christ
We believe in the “blessed hope” which is the imminent, personal, pre-tribulational coming of the Lord Jesus Christ for His Church, the Body of Christ, at which time the dead in Christ will be raised and the living saints will be translated to meet the Lord in the air. (John 14:3; 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 4:13-18; Titus 2:13; Revelation 3:10)We further believe in the personal, pre-millennial, visible and glorious return of Jesus Christ to the earth with His saints at the end of the great tribulation. When He comes with His saints, we believe that Christ will establish His millennial Kingdom, and will reign on earth for one thousand years (Revelation 19:11-16; 20:1-6).
Missions and Evangelism
We believe that it is the obligation of the saved to witness by life and by word to the truths of Holy Scripture and to seek to proclaim the gospel to all mankind (Mark 16:15; Acts 1:8; 2 Corinthians 5:19,20). Whereas edification and equipping the believer is a primary function of the church when gathered, evangelism of the unbeliever is the primary function of the church when scattered. We also believe that the sending of missionaries is a local church function (just as it is the responsibility of the local church to conduct church discipline) and, therefore, is not absolved when delegated to a mission board or agency.
Movements Contrary to the Faith
We are opposed to all forms of theological compromise such as, apostasy, liberalism, modernism, ecumenical evangelism,[1] neo-orthodoxy,[2] neo-evangelicalism,[3] the charismatic movement, ecumenical movement, the emerging/emergent church,[4] etc. We believe that all are out of harmony with the Word of God, and are inimical to the Word of God.
Separation
We believe that all the saved should live in such a manner as not to bring reproach upon their Savior and Lord; and, that separation from all religious apostasy, all worldly and sinful pleasures, practices and associations is commanded of God (2 Timothy 3:1-5; Romans 12:1-2; Romans 14:13; John 2:15-17; 2 John 1:9-11; 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1).
[1] Ecumenism/Ecumenical Evangelism: Ecumenism is that movement which seeks the organizational unity of all Christianity and ultimately of all religions. Its principal advocates are the World Council of Churches and the National Council of Churches in the United States of America. Ecumenical evangelism is an effort to promote the gospel by those who insist upon the authoritative Word of God and salvation by grace in Christ alone by faith alone; and cooperate with those who reject the doctrine of Biblical inspiration and/or espouse sacramental salvation.
[2] Neo-Orthodoxy: Neo-Orthodoxy seeks to close the gap between modernism and fundamentalism by expressing itself in the terms of orthodoxy while redefining its historical concepts with the substance of modernism; i.e., neo-orthodoxy affirms the transcendence of God, the finiteness and sinfulness of man, and the necessity of supernatural Divine revelation of truth, yet it seriously departs from orthodoxy in accepting the views of destructive higher criticism, in denying the inerrancy of the Bible as historic revelation, in accepting religious experience as the criterion of truth, and in abandoning important fundamentals of the Christian faith.
[3] Neo-Evangelicalism: Neo-Evangelicalism is that movement within evangelicalism characterized by a toleration of and a dialogue with theological liberalism. Its essence is seen in an emphasis upon the social application of the gospel and weak or unclear doctrines of the inspiration of Scripture, biblical creationism, eschatology, dispensationalism, “biblical” feminism, and separation. It is further characterized by an attempt to accommodate biblical Christianity and make it acceptable to the modern mind.
[4] The emerging/emergent church crosses denominational boundaries (since it is both interdenominational and nondenominational) and national boundaries (since it is international). In addition, emerging/emergent churches represent a wide assortment of theological positions (ranging from evangelical to liberal) and an even more extensive mixture of methodologies.
The emerging/emergent church falls into line with basic post-modernist thinking — it is about experience over reason, subjectivity over objectivity, spirituality over religion, images over words, outward over inward, feelings over truth. The emerging/emergent church generally can be divided into two basic groups: evangelical and liberal. Evangelical emerging churches still embrace the gospel and generally hold to the fundamentals of the orthodox faith. They essentially intend to minister “to” and “with” post-moderns. The more liberal wing of the emerging church tends to deny (or at least seriously question) the essentials of Christianity. This form of the emerging church is a liberal “reformation” to overthrow conservative evangelicalism and fundamentalism. This is a new face of theological liberalism made relevant for post-moderns. Basically, emergent leaders intend to minister “as” post-moderns.
Fraternal Organizations
We are firmly opposed to all societies, lodges and organizations of an un-Christian or anti-Christian character. We avoid Membership or participation in any organization that in its objectives, ceremonies or practices is inimical to the Gospel of Jesus Christ or the faith and life of the Christian church.
Music
We believe God is the origin of music. In the context of the Church, the purpose of music is an expression of our love to God, our worship of God, and our ministry to believers. Since music has a moral aspect, it can be good or bad; it, therefore, has a spiritual dimension and we will give an account to God for the music we play and sing. Since believers are instructed to judge all things, we should evaluate music in the light of the principles of God’s Word. In order to maintain the unity of the church with regard to the tastes and preferences of music, believers are exhorted to practice the principles of edification, sacrifice their personal freedoms, give preference to the needs of others and avoid diligently all forms of evil. (Colossians 1:16; Luke 10:27; John 4:24; Colossians 3:16-17; Matthew 15:18-19; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 1 Corinthians 2:13-14; 1 Thessalonians 5:22; 1 Corinthians 10:23-24; 1 Corinthians 8:9, 12; Romans 14:19)
Attitude toward Civil Government
We believe that God has ordained and created all authority consisting of three basic institutions: the home; the Church; and the state. Every person is subject to these authorities, but all (including the authorities themselves) are answerable to God and governed by His Word. God has given each institution specific Biblical responsibilities and balanced those responsibilities with the understanding that no institution has the right to infringe upon the other. The home, the Church, and the state are equal and sovereign in their respective Biblically assigned spheres of responsibility under God. We believe that civil government is ordained of God for the good of human society to promote and protect righteousness and to restrain and punish evil. Therefore, we consider it the duty of Christians to pray for those that are in authority over them and to give due loyalty, respect, and obedience to them. However, where the demands of civil law would militate against the supreme law and will of God, Christians should obey God rather than man. (Daniel 4:17; Matthew 22:17-21; Acts 4:19, 5:29; Romans 13:1-7; 1 Timothy 2:1-4; Acts 23:5; Titus 3:1; 1 Peter 2:13,14)
Politics
We believe that it is the privilege and responsibility of every individual Christian to be active in the civic and political processes of our land. Rights guaranteed by our Founding Fathers and responsibilities mandated by our heavenly Father demand the wholehearted investment of ourselves and our resources in defining our values and defending our freedoms, including but not limited to campaigning, financial support, personal endorsements, voting, and the holding of political office. (Ecclesiastes 9:10; Matthew 5:13-16)
Love
We believe that we should demonstrate love for others, not only toward fellow believers, but also toward both those who are not believers, those who oppose us, and those who engage in sinful actions. We are to deal with those who oppose us graciously, gently, patiently, and humbly. God forbids the stirring up of strife, the taking of revenge, or the threat or the use of violence as a means of resolving personal conflict or obtaining personal justice. Although God commands us to abhor sinful actions, we are to love and pray for any person who engages in such sinful actions. (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 5:44-48; Luke 6:31; John 13:34-35; Romans 12:9-10;17-21; 13:8-10; Philippians 2:2-4; 2 Timothy 2:24-26; Titus 3:2; 1 John 3:17-18)
Family
We believe that men and women are of equal importance and value before God, and that God has assigned distinct and different roles in the home for the husband and for the wife. The husband is commanded to be the leader of the home, to love and give himself for his wife, and to be the provider for the family. The wife is to be in a position of submission to the husband, who is the head of their home, to be a help-meet to the husband and to be a keeper of the home. Children are to be obedient to parents and to honor their parents. It is the God-given responsibility of the parents to love, educate, and discipline their children. (Genesis 2:18; Proverbs 19:18; 22:6,15; 23:13,14; Ephesians 5:22-6:4; Galatians 3:28; Colossians 3:18-21; 1 Timothy 3:4-5, 12; 5:8; Titus 2:4,5)
Marriage, Divorce & Remarriage
We believe that marriage is the holy union ordained of God between one man and one woman. God commands that believers marry only other believers. God intends for the marriage to continue until the husband and wife are separated by death, at which time the surviving partner is free to remarry. We believe that God hates divorce, and that divorce and remarriage are regarded as adultery except in circumstances involving fornication (any sexual relationship outside of marriage, including homosexuality, bestiality, and incest). We believe God permits divorce in cases where an unbelieving mate does not desire to live with his or her believing spouse (1 Corinthians 7:12-15). Because “the brother or sister is not under bondage in such cases” (1 Corinthians 7:15) remarriage is allowed. We further hold that as long as there is the possibility of reconciliation, it should be pursued. (Malachi 2:11-17; Matthew 19:3-12; Romans 7:1-3; 2 Corinthians 6:14-15; 1 Timothy 3:1-13)
Human Sexuality
We believe that God created us male and female. With neither malice nor prejudice toward any one individual, we believe that God has created human sexuality and has established sexual relations as an honorable part of the marriage relationship between one man and one woman. God has commanded that there be no sexual activity outside of marriage. We believe that adultery, bestiality, bisexuality, fornication, homosexuality, incest, lesbianism, pornography, rape, and all other sexual actions or relations outside of the marriage relationship between one man and one woman are perversions of human sexuality; and all these are sinful. (Genesis 2:22-25; Genesis 19:4-13; Exodus 20:14; Leviticus 18:1-30; Romans 1:26-32; 7:2; 1 Corinthians 5:1-2; 6:9-10; 7:1-40; 1 Thessalonians 4:1-7; Hebrews 13:4; Ephesians 5:22-28)
Abortion
We believe that human life begins at conception and that the unborn child is a living human being with an eternal soul. Abortion is murder, the unjustifiable and ungodly killing of an innocent child. We reject any teaching that abortions of pregnancies due to rape, incest, birth defects, gender selection, birth or population control or the mental well-being of the mother are acceptable. (Job 3:16); Psalm 51:5; 139:14-16; Isaiah 44:24; 49:1,5; Jeremiah 1:5; 20:15-18; Luke 1:44)
Euthanasia
We believe that the direct taking of an innocent human life is a moral evil, regardless of the intention. Life is a gift of God and must be respected from conception until natural death. Thus, we believe that an act or omission which, of itself or by intention, causes death in order to eliminate suffering constitutes a murder contrary to the will of God. Discontinuing extraordinary medical procedures, however, may at time be legitimate. (Exodus 20:13; 23:7; Matthew 5:21; Acts 17:28)
Education
We believe that all truth is God’s truth and that there is no true education without God’s truth, the Word of God. It is the God-given responsibility of parents to rear their children and to diligently educate their children from a Biblical, God-centered perspective. In contrast, we understand secular humanism, which is prevalent in the society of our day, to be a man-centered religious worldview based on atheism, naturalism, evolution and ethical relativism. We reject secular humanism as an ungodly and corrupt philosophy in opposition to the Word of God and intolerable to obedient followers of Jesus Christ. (Deuteronomy 6:4-14; Psalm 119:9,11,105,130; Proverbs 22:6; John 17:17; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16,17)
Conflict Resolution
We believe that Christians are prohibited from bringing civil lawsuits against other Christians or the Church to resolve disputes. We believe the Church possesses all the resources necessary to resolve disputes between Members. We do believe, however, that a Christian may seek compensation for injuries from another Christian’s insurance company as long as the claim is pursued without malice or slander (Matthew 18:15-17).