The Constitution of Igelsia Biblica de la Gracia

Attached to the Doctrinal Statement

Established in Arlington, Virginia — Year 2006

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Preamble:

We, the elders and members of Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia of Arlington, establish and approve the following Articles:

Article I: Name

The name of this local church shall be Iglesia Bíblica de la Gracia of Arlington. 

Article II: Purpose

God’s purpose for this local church is twofold: First, to make known His manifold wisdom, which He demonstrated in the Person and work of Jesus Christ (Ephesians 3:10); and second, that we, the members of the church, respond in worship, giving glory to Christ in everything we do (Ephesians 3:21).

The worship we offer in the church is expressed in:

  1. gathering around His Word, in prayer, and in fellowship, maintaining the unity of the Spirit (Acts 2:41–42; Hebrews 10:24–25; Ephesians 4:3);
  2. using our spiritual gifts, abilities, and resources for the building up of the members for service to God (Romans 12:1–13; 1 Corinthians 12:12–26);
  3. preaching the gospel in word and deed (Matthew 5:13–16; Acts 1:8; Romans 10:12–17);
  4. encouraging one another to apply the Word of God to every sphere of life (1 Corinthians 10:31);
  5. protecting one another from sin by admonishing, exhorting, forgiving, and, when necessary, applying biblical discipline (Galatians 6:1–2; Matthew 18:15–18).

 

Article III: Our Doctrinal Beliefs or Confession of Faith

The Holy Bible, consisting of the sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments, is the final authority in all matters of faith and practice.

The Confession of Faith is a summary of what we believe the Bible teaches regarding the essential doctrines of Christian theology. Our Confession of Faith is in substantial agreement with other Confessions of Faith established hundreds of years ago, primarily the London Baptist Confession of 1644 and 1689, as well as the Westminster Confession and other similar confessions.

All confessions are subordinate to Scripture and may be modified. Our confession, and our agreement with other confessions, serve to express what we believe are essential truths and also to identify us to those outside, especially in an age when this is necessary.

Article IV: Form of Government

The government of this church shall be under the direction of Christ Jesus the Head, and shall be carried out in obedience to the principles prescribed in the Bible (Colossians 1:17–18; Ephesians 4:15–16).

Under Christ’s leadership through His Word, Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia shall be governed by Elders (Pastors), fulfilling the responsibilities indicated in Article IX of the Rules of Conduct. Likewise, Deacons shall carry out their function of administering the general affairs of this church under the supervision of the Elders, fulfilling the responsibilities indicated in Article IX of the Rules of Conduct.

Elders who serve full-time may take six Sundays per year to minister in other churches and conferences. Invitations shall be evaluated by the Council of Elders. In addition, they shall have two full weeks of vacation.

Section 1: Elders

Elders shall be men called by God and qualified according to 1 Timothy 3:1–7, Titus 1:6–9, and 1 Peter 5:2–3, who agree with the Doctrinal Confession of Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia. Unless it is not possible, there shall be no fewer than two elders and as many as God calls to the ministry. Elders shall serve as long as they remain qualified, available, and desire to continue serving.

Section 2: Deacons

Deacons shall be men called by God and qualified according to Acts 6:1–3 and 1 Timothy 3:8–13, who agree with the Doctrinal Confession of Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia. Unless it is not possible, there shall be no fewer than two deacons and as many as God calls to the ministry. Deacons shall serve as long as they remain qualified, available, and desire to continue serving.

Section 3: Other Leadership Positions

All positions within Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia shall be held by church members. This includes all teaching positions (Sunday School, small groups in homes, etc.), leading worship, and any other leadership positions in all church ministries. Members in these positions are required to have a clear testimony before God and men.

Section 4: The Need for Fellowship with Other Churches

Fellowship among the churches of Christ should be sought and pursued. Fellowship with pastors of other churches aligned with this church is significant for maintaining the purity and integrity of the elders in their ministerial labors. These pastoral relationships provide a context for encouragement, admonition, and exhortation (when necessary), and united pastors will be a source of wisdom for the ministry of each individual church. (See Article VI.)

Article V: Corporate Status

Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia is a religious corporation in the Commonwealth of Virginia and is not organized for the private benefit of any person. It is organized under the Nonprofit Religious Corporations Law exclusively for religious purposes within Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Article VI: Affiliations

Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia shall not be subordinate to any other organization in any sphere. Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia may cooperate with and establish relationships with other churches and organizations of similar doctrinal beliefs and purposes, and in all such relationships it reserves the right to end those relationships.

Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia shall seek to establish edifying relationships with other churches and organizations. The properties of Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia shall not be subordinate to any other organization.

Article VII: Membership

Membership is a means of maintaining the purity of Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia and ensuring the administration of pastoral care for members (1 Peter 1:15–16).

Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia receives as members those who demonstrate faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and have been baptized. All members are called to study and substantially agree with the doctrines of Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia. Unless the validity of a prior baptism is questioned, there shall be no need to baptize the membership candidate. In such a case, the person shall be encouraged to be baptized.

Article VIII: Church Discipline

One of the goals of Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia is to exalt the honor of Christ by maintaining the purity of the local church and its worship (Matthew 18:15–18; Romans 16:17–18; 1 Corinthians 5:6–8; 2 Thessalonians 3:6–15; Titus 1:13; 2:15; 3:10).

Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia, applying biblical principles, will do everything possible to restore those who have fallen into sin (1 Corinthians 5:5; Galatians 6:1–2) and to prevent others from falling into the same (1 Timothy 5:20). Therefore, discipline is a demonstration of love toward the brethren.

All matters concerning the discipline of a member, even when addressed in a members’ meeting, fall under confidentiality. Any person who discloses any information regarding a disciplinary situation (except what is necessary under the supervision of the elders) violates the relevant biblical principles and becomes subject to discipline.

Article IX: Dissolution

In the event that Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia is dissolved by the Elders, no member, church officer, or private individual shall take part in the distribution of its assets.

Upon dissolution, all church assets shall be used first to pay any outstanding debts. After this, the remaining assets of the corporation shall be given to a nonprofit corporation of the same belief and practice and/or to missionaries supported by the church. The selection of recipients and the timing of the transfers shall be determined by the Council of Elders, considering the recommendations of the deacons. Necessary legal assistance shall be sought in the process.

Article X: Amendments

The Board of Elders shall request comments and recommendations from the members of Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia regarding all amendments to this Constitution and Rules no fewer than thirty days before they are approved and incorporated.

After evaluating the members’ responses, final approval of the amendments shall be made by the Board of Elders.

Rules of Conduct of Iglesia Bíblica de la Gracia

Article I: Membership Process

Section 1: Qualifications

Any person who wishes to become a member of Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia must notify any elder of their desire. One or two elders shall interview the person to determine their understanding of and faith in Christ as Lord and Savior, and to discuss the responsibilities of members in Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia.

After expressing their profession of faith and agreement with the responsibilities of membership, the person shall be presented to the other members to be accepted as an official member.

All members, consistent with their walk of faith and commitment to the Body of Christ, are expected to show the following:

  • An attitude of submission to the authority of the Word of God, the Bible, and a commitment to grow in knowledge of it.
  • A desire to participate in the ministries of this local church using the spiritual gifts God has given them (Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 12:4–7).
  • A willingness to submit to the leadership and authority of the elders according to Scripture (Hebrews 13:7, 17; 1 Peter 5:1–4).
  • A commitment to attend the regular meetings of Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia, except when hindered by providential circumstances.
  • A commitment not to promote doctrines contrary to the central doctrines of Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia.

Section 2: Transfer of Membership

Knowing that membership transfers must be done in an orderly way, we determine that transfer from another church to Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia must be based on biblical principles. Where unresolved difficulties remain, the elders shall do everything possible to resolve the matter biblically.

For members who wish to transfer to another church, a letter of transfer must be delivered to the other church on behalf of Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia. Once that letter is delivered, membership in this church is terminated.

Section 3: Dual Membership

Any person who is a member of another church but, due to providential circumstances (work, illness, etc.), has been attending Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia may choose dual membership. This status allows them to receive necessary pastoral care while attending and being part of Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia.

Section 4: Termination of Membership

Any member may terminate their membership in Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia by personal request, informing the Board of Elders in writing of their intention and the reasons for their decision. If the reason involves a problem with the church, the Board of Elders will seek to resolve those matters so members may remain, grow spiritually, and continue contributing to the church.

If it is determined that a member seeks to terminate membership to avoid a disciplinary process, the request shall not be granted until the process is completed.

Members may be removed from membership by order of the Board of Elders when they consistently, and without adequate reason, are absent from the established church meetings; join another church; or by excommunication (see Rule of Conduct V).

Section 5: Privileges

Each member shall have the privilege of pastoral care. Only members may be Elders, Deacons, teachers, and serve in any ministry position. Participation in church assistance, and use of facilities and equipment, are privileges reserved for members. Exceptions must be approved by the Board of Elders.

Section 6: Church Meetings

Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia holds regular worship services on Sunday mornings and Friday nights. These meetings are intended to worship God together through the teaching and preaching of the Word of God; prayer; praise in songs, hymns, and psalms; mutual edification; the ordinances; and the use of spiritual gifts.

On Sundays we have Sunday School for different ages. During the week, brethren may meet for Bible studies, special activities, discipleship, and ministry training.

The Board of Elders shall meet every two weeks to address matters related to pastoral labor. Other meetings may be called according to arising needs.

Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia shall hold its annual assembly in January of each year, where the budget for the year, projects to be carried out, and the work plan shall be presented.

Other meetings of all members may be called by the Board of Elders according to the needs that arise.

Article II: The Ordinances of the Church

Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia recognizes two ordinances established by the Lord Jesus Christ, which must be observed: baptism, which is to be done once; and the Lord’s Supper, which is to be observed regularly.

Section 1: Baptism

Water baptism symbolizes the Christian’s union with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3–4). According to the biblical pattern, a new believer should be baptized as soon as possible after conversion as an expression of personal faith in Christ and entrance into church membership.

Immersion is the preferred method, consistent with the practice observed in the New Testament (Matthew 3:13–17; Acts 8:36–40).

Baptisms must be performed by and under the supervision of an elder. At the time of baptism, the candidate must give a public testimony of faith in Christ, either through a personal statement or by answering questions asked by the one baptizing.

A person who wishes to be baptized must, by personal conviction, take the initiative to contact one of the elders, meet with them, and establish that they are in a condition to be baptized. The elders shall decide whether the person qualifies for baptism.

Section 2: The Lord’s Supper

Because the Lord exhorts us to do this in remembrance of Him (1 Corinthians 11:20, 24), and in light of the practice of the early church (Acts 2:42; 20:7), Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia observes the Lord’s Supper on the first Sunday of each month and on other occasions the Elders judge necessary.

This ordinance shall be carried out under the supervision of the elders. The Lord’s Supper is open to all believing members in good standing of an evangelical church.

Those who participate must examine themselves to see whether there are unconfessed sins before God or conflicts with another believer, and must resolve those matters before participating (Matthew 5:23–24; 1 Corinthians 11:28–29).

Article III: Biblical Counseling

All believers struggle against sin and its effects in our lives and relationships (Romans 3:23; 7:7–25). When a believer cannot resist temptation and falls, God desires that they seek assistance from other believers and especially from the elders, who have the responsibility to provide pastoral counseling (Romans 15:14; Galatians 6:1–2; Colossians 3:16; Hebrews 13:7, 17; James 5:16).

Therefore, Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia exhorts and encourages its members to seek counsel from one another and, ultimately, from the pastors.

Section 1: Principles of Counseling

Our counseling is based on the fact that God, through His written Word, the Bible, has provided the necessary principles to resolve all matters of the soul in every sphere of life.

Section 2: Confidentiality in Counseling

Confidentiality shall be respected as much as possible. However, there are situations in which it is appropriate to reveal certain information to others, especially when the elders of this church believe it is biblically necessary. For example:

  • When an elder is unsure how to counsel someone and needs help from another elder(s) (Proverbs 11:14; 13:10; 15:22).
  • When the person presenting the matter is in imminent danger unless others intervene (Proverbs 24:11–12).
  • When a person refuses to repent of sin and it becomes necessary to initiate the disciplinary process (Matthew 18:15–18—see Article IV of the Rules of Conduct), or when they seek assistance from individuals or agencies outside the church (Romans 13:1–5).
  • When, by law, we are required to report a case of abuse (whether involving children or another criminal act).

In all these cases, every appropriate measure must be taken to ensure that only the necessary information is shared, and only with those who should receive it. We must remember we are dealing with the children of God and must protect one another.

Article IV: Discipline in the Church

Discipline in the church of Christ is an act of love by which the disciplined person is restored to fellowship with Christ and His Church or, due to rebellion, is excommunicated. The application of discipline in the church shall follow the process established by Christ in Matthew 18:15–18 and Galatians 6:1–2 (Article I of the Rules of Conduct). The elders shall oversee the process described below.

Section 1: Offenses

The general categories of offenses that may result in church discipline are:

  • Divisive offenses (Titus 3:9–11; Romans 16:17–18; 1 Corinthians 12:11–22).
  • Behavioral offenses (fornication, drunkenness, theft, etc.) (1 Corinthians 5:9–13; 6:9–11).
  • Doctrinal offenses (1 Timothy 1:18–20; 6:3–5; 2 John 9–11).

Section 2: Methods Used

Matthew 18:15–18 describes the process used to bring reconciliation when an offense has taken place. If reconciliation does not occur, the elders shall take steps to ensure the disciplinary process is carried out in an orderly and appropriate manner.

The elders shall not receive anonymous accusations. The person accused of sin has the right to face and respond to the accusations against them. Any offense against an elder must be corroborated by at least two witnesses (1 Timothy 5:19).

When an offense is revealed, the steps are:

  • Investigation: The elders must conduct an investigation to determine whether the accused is guilty. If the charges are false, the accusers shall be exhorted to restore the relationship. If the accusation is proven (by confession or witnesses), admonition takes place.
  • Admonition: A biblical description of the sinful conduct and the actions that must replace it. In addition, the person shall be supervised in their conduct until evident change is seen. They shall also be warned that public admonition (2 Thessalonians 3:14–15; 1 Timothy 5:20) or excommunication may occur if there is no repentance. A person in this phase may not participate in church ministries or in the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:28–29).
  • Excommunication: If admonition and supervision are not sufficient to correct sinful conduct, excommunication shall take place. This action excludes the person from participation in public church services, as well as social gatherings, special meetings (retreats and conferences), and recreational events, and the person is removed from membership. The church shall be informed of the reasons for the decision to excommunicate the offender. If the excommunicated person leaves the church and seeks another church, the elders are called to inform the other church of that person’s status.
  • Restoration: When the excommunicated person repents, restoration begins. Restoration is the process by which the person who sinned is made a participant again in all the privileges enjoyed before excommunication. This is possible only when the elders are convinced that true repentance has taken place. If restoration is appropriate, the elders shall inform the church of the reasons and explain to the other members their responsibilities toward the restored person (2 Corinthians 2:5–11).

The entire process of biblical discipline is based on love for God, for the church, and for the person or persons disciplined. This process takes place only when there is no change because of the person’s rebellion against the Word of God.

The process described here also covers all disputes related to church membership, doctrines, rules of conduct and church policy, practice within the church, counseling, discipline, decisions and actions (including legal actions based on civil statutes and any accident involving personal physical injury or damage of any kind). By joining this church, all members agree that the methods described here shall be sufficient and exclusive for resolving any dispute against the church and its officers; and they further waive their right to pursue legal action against the church in a civil court or agency.

Criminal matters shall be referred to the appropriate authorities.

Article V: Finances

To remain blameless before God and others as stewards of what God has entrusted to us, it is important to establish appropriate financial accountability. For this reason, the Board of Deacons shall oversee all church financial matters under the authority of the elders (see Article IX, Section 2 of the Rules of Conduct). A treasury team, drawn from the deacons, shall be appointed by the elders of Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia as soon as necessary and possible.

Some of the responsibilities of those in charge of finances include:

  • Ensuring that no more money is spent than is available to cover the need being addressed.
  • Ensuring that funds are disbursed on time to meet the church’s responsibilities.
  • Supervising the counting of money and deposits into the bank account.
  • Keeping accounting records up to date regarding funds received and spent.
  • Providing a financial report at the Annual Assembly.

Section 1: Payments

All payments or reimbursements must be approved by an elder or a deacon who is not directly involved in the transaction.

Section 2: Monthly Reports

Those responsible for finances shall provide a bimonthly report to the elders and a semiannual report to the church. The deacons, under the supervision of the elders, may disburse funds to cover general material purchases and general church payments. Any person authorized to make a purchase must submit the appropriate receipts to receive reimbursement for the purchase made.

Section 3: General Budgets

The elders and deacons shall prepare a yearly budget based on the financial responsibilities presented by the elders, deacons, and the leaders of the various ministries. This includes salaries.

This budget must be approved by the Board of Elders and Deacons and then presented to the full church at the annual assembly. Salaries paid by Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia shall result from the recommendation of the elders and deacons and must be presented to the membership at the annual assembly.

All financial responsibilities of the church, though approved by the Board of Elders and Deacons, must be affirmed and/or modified together with the general assembly of the church, for the purpose of maintaining a good testimony of integrity, honesty, and biblical stewardship.

Article VI: Decisions of the Board of Elders

Section 1: Rules and Guidelines of Conduct

The elders shall seek to make all decisions by consensus. In discussions, the elders must:

  • Earnestly seek the will of God (Psalm 143:10).
  • Ensure that biblical principles are not violated (2 Timothy 3:16–17).
  • Show humility and respect toward one another (Philippians 2:1–4).
  • Submit to one another—no one is greater than another (Ephesians 5:21).
  • Wait patiently until all are ready (Ephesians 4:2).
  • Genuinely consider the interests of others (Proverbs 15:22; Philippians 2:4).
  • Prefer and defer to one another and to delegated groups in all minor matters (Proverbs 13:10).
  • Maintain a teachable spirit (Proverbs 18:15).

Section 2: Matters Not Related to Discipline

If consensus cannot be reached within a reasonable period of time in decisions not related to church discipline, an elder may propose a motion to:

  • Discuss the matter in greater detail.
  • Delay the decision to seek God’s will in prayer and obtain more information.
  • Consider seeking outside help for wisdom and recommendations.
  • Vote and decide the matter by majority vote within the Board of Elders.

Article VII: Appointment of Church Officers

Section 1: Qualifications

God is the One who calls a man to the office of elder or deacon. Likewise, He is the One who equips that man with the spiritual gifts and character necessary for that office (Acts 20:28; Ephesians 4:11). It is the responsibility of the local church to discover and evaluate those men whom God has called to be elders or deacons (Acts 6:3). This evaluation must be made on the basis of the spiritual qualifications stated in 1 Timothy 3:1–13, Titus 1:5–9, and 1 Peter 5:1–4.

Elders and deacons shall serve in their offices as long as they remain biblically qualified, are available, and desire to serve the Lord.

Section 2: Procedure

A candidate for office may be recommended to the Board of Elders by any member of Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia. In addition, a man who believes the Lord is calling him to ministry should seek the counsel of the elders to consider his availability to serve God in any official position (1 Timothy 3:1).

It is the responsibility of the elders to examine the candidate’s qualifications for both offices. If there is consensus among the elders regarding the candidate’s qualifications, the candidate shall be presented to the membership for consideration and prayer. He must also be evaluated for a period of time (Acts 6:3–5; 1 Timothy 3:1–13; 2 Timothy 2:15). The evaluation period shall be no less than three months. During that time, members are responsible to ask questions, pray for the brother, and evaluate the brother.

At the end of the period, the elders shall evaluate the members’ responses and the candidate’s situation. If there is consensus among the elders regarding the candidate’s qualification, he shall be presented to the church in a regular worship service, in which he shall be recognized as one whom God has called to the task of elder or deacon. If the elders do not reach consensus, the nomination is suspended.

Article VIII: Responsibilities of Church Officers

Section 1: Responsibilities of the Elders

Under the authority of Scripture, the responsibility of the elders is to oversee the spiritual life of the church members using the following means:

  • Preaching and Teaching (Acts 6:4; Ephesians 4:11–16; 1 Thessalonians 5:12; 1 Timothy 3:2; 1 Timothy 5:17; 2 Timothy 4:2; Titus 1:9). They shall also oversee all matters concerning public worship conduct, spiritual growth, and evangelism among members.
  • Pastoral Care — All elders have the responsibility to care for the flock entrusted to them (1 Peter 5:1–4; Acts 20:28; Galatians 6:1–2). Elders must use the Word of God to instruct, build up, admonish, correct, and exhort the members of the Body (2 Thessalonians 2:11; 2 Timothy 3:16–17; Hebrews 13:17; Psalm 23:2–3).
  • Leadership — Elders are responsible to exercise the authority delegated by God in all areas of doctrine and practice of the church. They also have authority over the Board of Deacons and all other church ministries (1 Timothy 3:4–5). The exercise of authority is based on biblical principles applicable to the situation, not personal preferences of the elders (1 Peter 5:2–4). Abuse of authority is grounds for disqualification of an elder and likewise of any member in a position of authority.
  • Prayer — The elders minister to the church by praying for them as individuals and as a board. The elders of Iglesia Biblica de la Gracia shall meet to pray every two weeks. The date and time shall be at their convenience (Acts 2:42).

Section 2: Responsibilities of the Deacons

The responsibility of the deacons is to assist the elders by:

  • Managing Finances — They shall disburse funds needed to fulfill the church’s financial commitments, cover salaries and regular expenses, and prepare the church budget (under supervision of the Board of Elders) (Acts 6:1–7; 1 Timothy 3:8–13).
  • Caring for Church Property — They shall maintain equipment, utensils, etc. They shall acquire and dispose of church property as needed. All consumable materials for Sunday School, worship services, and everything related to the proper functioning of the place of worship—as well as materials used, regardless of type—shall be under the care and responsibility of the deacons.
  • Attending to Physical Needs — They shall remain alert to the physical needs of church members and seek ways to meet them (Acts 6:1–7; 1 Timothy 3:8–13).

Doctrinal Statement of Iglesia Bíblica de la Gracia

The doctrines below are a brief summary of our doctrines, reflecting historical agreement with the London Baptist Confession of Faith of 1689 and other similar confessions. The Bible is our only rule of faith and conduct in every sphere of life.

GOD

We believe that God, as revealed in the Bible, is the one living and true God. He is the only holy, sovereign, and self-sufficient God. He is self-existent and in need of no external help (Exodus 3:14; Deuteronomy 6:4; John 5:39; Isaiah 6:3; Isaiah 43:10; Psalm 100; Psalm 135:6).

God is and reveals Himself to us in the Trinity—God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are equal in nature, essence, and being; however, they are distinct Persons, each with personal characteristics according to His Person and Work (Psalm 110:1; Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Hebrews 1:1–5; Hebrews 2:14–16 with Philippians 2:5–11; 1 Peter 1:2).

He is the Creator of all things, visible and invisible, physical and spiritual. Out of nothing (ex nihilo), by the power of His Word, He called all that exists into being and sustains all things according to His will and by His power (Genesis 1; Psalm 100; Psalm 104; Colossians 1:16–17; Hebrews 11:3).

God has a purpose and plan for all things in heaven and on earth, which shall be accomplished according to His eternal decrees for His glory. In this, His many attributes—including His wisdom, power, love, faithfulness, justice, mercy, and goodness—are revealed to us (Isaiah 46:10–13; Romans 1:19–20).

THE BIBLE

We believe that the Bible, as originally written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek, is the only Word of God—without error, infallible, and authoritative. This Bible, in translations into various languages, is composed of sixty-six (66) books—thirty-nine (39) in the Old Testament and twenty-seven (27) in the New Testament—and is fully sufficient in all matters related to God’s revelation and relationship with man, and to man’s conduct in any place and time. The Bible, as the Word of God, is the rule of faith and conduct for all people in every place and time (Proverbs 30:5; 2 Peter 1:20–21; Deuteronomy 8:18; Hebrews 4:12–13; 2 Timothy 3:16–17).

The Holy Spirit applies Scripture so that it produces faith in us by establishing in our hearts the saving knowledge of God in Christ—the content of what we believe, or our faith—and by guiding us in daily conduct (John 6:44; 1 Corinthians 2:12–14; Romans 6:17; John 16:13–15; 2 Timothy 3:14–17).

Nothing is to be added to the Word of God, the Bible—the Scriptures—whether by human tradition or new revelation, nor may anything be taken away from it. The Bible is the standard and authority by which all knowledge concerning God and His relationship with man is tested (Deuteronomy 4:7; 12:32; Revelation 22:18–19; Galatians 1:8; Colossians 2:8).

Each of us is called to handle the Word of God correctly. Therefore, we must discern the true meaning God intended to communicate. We determine the meaning of the passage in question by its context, recognizing the basic unity of all Scripture and following the basic rule of interpretation—Scripture must interpret Scripture (for example: Genesis 12:7 with Galatians 3:16; Joel 2:28–32 with Acts 2:16–24; Genesis 15:6 with Romans 4:1–3).

MAN’S NEED: SALVATION

We believe that in the beginning all creation, including man, was good in every sense. Man (male and female) had no sin and therefore walked with God. However, man fell from that position of walking with God into disgrace, becoming deserving of condemnation and hell because of unbelief and rebellion. Now all have inherited Adam’s sinful nature and are unable to do anything that pleases God. All are dead in trespasses and sins and therefore cannot respond to the gospel of salvation by their own effort or motivation (Genesis chapters 1–3; Isaiah 53:6; Romans 3:10–12; 5:12–21; 8:6–8; Ephesians 2:1–9).

GOD’S PROVISION

God has made provision for man’s need in the gospel. The gospel is that Jesus Christ, being God and Man, was sent by the Father and came willingly to be the only Mediator between God and man. He was born of a virgin and lived a life of perfect obedience to His Father, keeping all His commandments and fulfilling His purposes. In doing so, He revealed to man the glory, mercy, grace, love, goodness, justice, and truth of God, showing men the new abundant life (Hebrews 1:1–3; John 1:14; Acts 2:23–26; 1 Timothy 2:5; Luke 1:26–28; 1 Peter 2:21–22; John 14:6; John 17:4; Romans 2:4; Romans 5:8; Isaiah 53:6; Genesis 3:14–21; Leviticus 16; Numbers 21:8 and John 3:14–16; Romans 1:16–17).

Jesus Christ gave His life on the cross at the hands of sinful men according to the eternal and sovereign purpose of God. Though He had no sin, Christ did this to pay God’s just penalty for man’s sin and to act on behalf of those whom the Father had chosen to redeem from the effects of sin. After His death, on the third day, He rose from the dead, permanently removing the curse of death from His people (Acts 2:23; Romans 3:23–26; 1 Peter 1:18–21).

After Christ ascended into heaven, He sent the Holy Spirit to make the Savior known to those whom the Father had chosen. The Holy Spirit works in God’s people, giving them spiritual life and enabling them to receive the gift of eternal life according to the gospel through faith in Jesus Christ.

Now Jesus, the Lord of His people, dwells in the presence of the Father, interceding for His own and enabling them to grow into His likeness and image (Acts 1:8–9; John 16:7–13; Ephesians 2:4–8; Romans 3:21–26; Colossians 1:18; Ephesians 1:18–21; Hebrews 7:24–25; 2 Corinthians 10:5; Hebrews 1:1–4; Romans 8:29).

MAN’S RESPONSE TO THE GRACE OF GOD

All who respond in faith to the gospel and its promises are declared righteous before God through the righteousness of Jesus Christ credited (imputed) to them. Through the gospel they are reconciled to God by the forgiveness of sins through the substitutionary death of Christ on their behalf. Having been reconciled, believers pass from judgment, wrath, and death to life and have received the Spirit of adoption as beloved children who know God as Father (Romans 3:21–26; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:4; Romans 6:23; Romans 5:9–11; 6:4).

Growth and conformity to the image of Christ is a vital and natural part of the believer’s life. Therefore, having been regenerated for good works, believers will grow in the grace of God, turning from sin and following Christ as Lord (2 Corinthians 3:17–18; Ephesians 4:11–16; Ephesians 2:10; Romans 6:1–4, 11–14; 2 Peter 3:18; 2 Peter 1:3–10).

All whom God has chosen and redeemed will be preserved and will persevere in saving faith until the day God has appointed to bring them to be with Him forever (John 10:28–29; Philippians 1:6; John 14:1–3; John 6:44–58).

THE CHURCH

We believe that all who have faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior are united by the indwelling Holy Spirit into a spiritual and physical body that is the Church, of which Jesus Christ is the Head. That Church is manifested in each local church that recognizes Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and serves Him according to the Scriptures (Romans 12:5; 1 Corinthians 12:12–27; Ephesians 4:11–16; Colossians 1:18).

God’s purpose in establishing His Church is to bring glory to Himself by making known His manifold wisdom, demonstrated in Christ Jesus. This is manifested when believers:

  • Gather in the power and unity of the Holy Spirit to worship God by proclaiming His Word, praising, praying, and participating in the ordinances of the Church (Hebrews 10:24–25; Acts 2:42–47).
  • Use their spiritual gifts for mutual edification and for equipping members to serve Christ in various ministries (Ephesians 3:10–11; Ephesians 4:11–16; 1 Corinthians 12:4–7; 1 Peter 4:10).
  • Proclaim the gospel of Christ to a lost and perishing world (Matthew 28:18–20; Mark 16:15; Acts 1:8).
  • Are light and salt in the various callings to which they have been called, whether at work, in their homes, with friends, and with family (Matthew 5:13–16).

God has established two ordinances for the Church: baptism and the Lord’s Supper (Acts 2:38; 1 Corinthians 11:23–26).

All believers are priests in the house of God. All share the same dignity, the same calling, and the same privilege of fellowship with God. All are called to offer sacrifices of worship, praise, and thanksgiving to God. With our different gifts and callings, we serve God and one another.

Within His house, Jesus Christ establishes elders—pastors under His oversight—to serve His people by administering the activities of the Church and caring for the spiritual needs of the members. Deacons minister to the physical needs of the church, both the local body and the individual (1 Peter 2:9–10; Romans 12:1–2; 1 Corinthians 12:7; Acts 20:28; 1 Timothy 3:1–13; Titus 1:5–9).

The final authority by which all church disputes must be decided is the Bible, the Scriptures, the Word of God. These must be interpreted by the illumination of the Holy Spirit (2 Timothy 3:16–17; John 14:26; 16:13–15).

THE END OF ALL THINGS

We believe that God has appointed a day on which Jesus Christ will return visibly in glory to judge the world in righteousness. His justice will be displayed in the resurrection for eternal punishment of all unbelievers, who will be cast into hell to suffer eternal separation from God. His mercy will be displayed in the resurrection of the believing saints, in glorified bodies, to enjoy eternal life and fullness of joy in the presence of the Lord (Matthew 24:36; John 5:28–29; Matthew 25:31; Revelation 21:3; Mark 13:26–27; 2 Thessalonians 1:7–10; Revelation 21:8).

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