An Overview
The perfect record and righteousness of Christ, not the increase of our character, is the basis of our hope and salvation. When it comes to our beliefs, we don’t expect that everyone will agree with us, but we do hold to certain theological convictions that influence our ministry practices and expressions.
The Human Condition
We have all inherited the guilt and corruption of Adam’s sin. No one is exempt, and there is not an area of our being that has not been effected by this sinful nature (emotionally, mentally, spiritually, physically, relationally). This means that our sin has even effected our ability to obey God, to pursue Him, or even to understand our need for Christ. We rely completely on God’s free gift of grace. (Genesis 6:5; Jeremiah 17:9; John 6:44; Romans 3:10-12; Ephesians 2:1-3).
God Initiates With Us
If we cannot earn salvation on our own because of our original sin nature, then salvation must come from God. Even more, God’s initiative with us is not based on any good that he foresees in us, but rather on His unconditional love. All through Scripture, the re-occurring theme of God initiating with humankind and extending his mercy and grace is seen from generation to generation. God still initiates with us today. (Deuteronomy 7:7-8; John 15:16; Romans 11:5-6; Ephesians 1:4-5; 2 Thessalonians 2:13).
The Atonement of Jesus, the Son
The Bible uses the word ‘enemies’ when describing our relationship with God, because of sin. The atonement was the only effective and suitable way to reconcile us to God and restore peace. Jesus’ death on the cross made satisfaction for our past, present, and future sins; once and for all. This was not merely a fortunate event in history, but a plan of God’s from all eternity. (John 10:11, 14-15; Romans 5:10; 2 Corinthians 5:18-19; Ephesians 5:25-27; Hebrews 2:17).
Ministry of the Holy Spirit
God does not leave us to our own strength but ministers to us today through the Holy Spirit. He brings life to our dead hearts, shows us the misery of our sin, reveals the love of God, and convinces us of the grace of Jesus, leading us to salvation. He enables us to understand and obey the Scriptures, applies the work of Christ on the cross to us, and secures us in the love of God, forever. (Ezekiel 11:19-20; John 16:8-11; Acts 7:51; Romans 8:30).
The Promise of the Gospel
We can rest secure knowing that God does not go back on any of His promises. We rely on the faithfulness of Christ for our eternal security, not the faithfulness of the Christian. We believe those who genuinely come to know, believe, and trust in Christ, despite their weaknesses, are preserved in the faith till the end. (Jeremiah 31:3; John 5:24; Phillipians 1:6; John 10:27-30; Romans 8:35-39).