Core Beliefs
The following are the core beliefs of Odenton Baptist Church based on the foundational truths taught in the Bible. All of our teaching and ministry is rooted in and flows out of these biblical doctrines.
The Bible
Inspired Word of God:
We believe that the Holy Bible was written by men supernaturally inspired; that it is the truth, without any admixture of error for its matter; and therefore is, and shall remain to the end of the age, the only complete and final revelation of the will of God to man; the true center of Christian union and the supreme standard by which all
human conduct, creeds, and opinions should be tried.
By “The Holy Bible”,
we mean that collection of sixty-six books, from Genesis 1:1 through
Revelation 22:21, which, as originally written, does not only contain and
convey the Word of God, but IS the very Word of God. We believe the Masoretic text (O.T.) and the Textus Receptus (N.T.) text to be the preserved Word of God in the Hebrew, Aramaic, and Koine Greek languages.
By “inspiration”,
we mean that the sixty-six (66) books of the Bible were written by holy men of old, as they were moved by the Holy Spirit, in such a definite way that their writings were supernaturally and verbally inspired and free from error, as no other writings have ever been or ever will be inspired.
The King James Bible retains its pureness and infallibility through God’s preservation and is not re-inspired; but rather, through the providential preservation of God, the King James Bible contains all of the authority and perfection of the original manuscripts. The King James Bible shall
be the official and only English translation used by the Church.
(Psa 19:7-11; 119:89,105,130,160; Prov 30:5-6; Isa 8:20; Luke 16:31; 24:25-27,44-45; John 5:39,45-47; 12:48; 17:17; Acts 1:16; 28:25; Rom 3:4; 15:4; Eph 6:17; 2 Tim 3:16-17; 1 Pet 1:23; 2 Pet 1:19-21; Rev 22:19)
Dispensational Interpretation of Scriptures:
We believe that the Scriptures interpreted in their natural, literal sense reveal divinely determined dispensations or rules of life that define man’s responsibilities in successive ages. These dispensations are not ways of salvation, but rather are divinely ordered stewardships by which God directs man according to His purpose. Three of these dispensations—the law, the church, and the kingdom—are the subjects of detailed revelation in Scripture.
(Gen 1:28; 1 Cor 9:17; 2 Cor 3:9-18; Gal 3:13-25; Eph
1:10; 3:2-10; Col 1:24-25, 27; Rev 20:2-6)
We believe that the Holy Bible was written by men supernaturally inspired; that it is the truth, without any admixture of error for its matter; and therefore is, and shall remain to the end of the age, the only complete and final revelation of the will of God to man; the true center of Christian union and the supreme standard by which all
human conduct, creeds, and opinions should be tried.
By “The Holy Bible”,
we mean that collection of sixty-six books, from Genesis 1:1 through
Revelation 22:21, which, as originally written, does not only contain and
convey the Word of God, but IS the very Word of God. We believe the Masoretic text (O.T.) and the Textus Receptus (N.T.) text to be the preserved Word of God in the Hebrew, Aramaic, and Koine Greek languages.
By “inspiration”,
we mean that the sixty-six (66) books of the Bible were written by holy men of old, as they were moved by the Holy Spirit, in such a definite way that their writings were supernaturally and verbally inspired and free from error, as no other writings have ever been or ever will be inspired.
The King James Bible retains its pureness and infallibility through God’s preservation and is not re-inspired; but rather, through the providential preservation of God, the King James Bible contains all of the authority and perfection of the original manuscripts. The King James Bible shall
be the official and only English translation used by the Church.
(Psa 19:7-11; 119:89,105,130,160; Prov 30:5-6; Isa 8:20; Luke 16:31; 24:25-27,44-45; John 5:39,45-47; 12:48; 17:17; Acts 1:16; 28:25; Rom 3:4; 15:4; Eph 6:17; 2 Tim 3:16-17; 1 Pet 1:23; 2 Pet 1:19-21; Rev 22:19)
Dispensational Interpretation of Scriptures:
We believe that the Scriptures interpreted in their natural, literal sense reveal divinely determined dispensations or rules of life that define man’s responsibilities in successive ages. These dispensations are not ways of salvation, but rather are divinely ordered stewardships by which God directs man according to His purpose. Three of these dispensations—the law, the church, and the kingdom—are the subjects of detailed revelation in Scripture.
(Gen 1:28; 1 Cor 9:17; 2 Cor 3:9-18; Gal 3:13-25; Eph
1:10; 3:2-10; Col 1:24-25, 27; Rev 20:2-6)
The Godhead
Triune God or Trinity:
We believe that there is one,
and only one, living and true God, an infinite, intelligent Spirit, the maker and supreme ruler of heaven and earth; inexpressibly glorious in holiness and worthy of all possible honor, confidence and love; that in the unity of the eternally existing Godhead there are three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, equal in every divine perfection, and executing distinct, but harmonious, offices in the great work of redemption. God is a person, eternally existing, as a
Trinity in unity: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit; three distinct persons and yet one God.
(Gen 17:1; Psa 83:18; 90:2; Jer 10:10; Matt 28:19; Mark 12:30; John 15:26; Rom 11:33; Eph 2:18; Phil 2:5-6; 1 Tim 1:17; 1 John 5:7)
God The Father:
We believe in one triune God, Holy in person, just in judgment, merciful to the repentant, and worthy of all worship and praise. God desires that
those that worship Him do so in spirit and in truth. His counsel shall forever stand, and the good pleasure of His will shall be accomplished, conforming believers into the image of His only Begotten Son and reserving the unjust for the day of judgment.
(John 4:24; 1 John 5:7; Isa 46:10; Rom 8:29; Eph 1:5; 1 Pet 1:16; Psa 89:14; Isa 9:7; 45:21; Zeph 3:5; John 5:30; Rom 3:26; Rev 15:3)
The Person and Work of Christ:
We believe in the deity, pre-existence, virgin born, sinless
perfection, bodily resurrection, and ascension into heaven of Jesus
Christ. He presently intercedes for the redeemed as our High Priest and Advocate. Equal with God, He is the Son of God, and God the Son. Saviour of sinners by His shed blood, He is The Eternal Word of God, LORD of Lords, and KING of kings, who shall in the last days, judge the deeds of all men.
(Isa 7:14; 9:6; Luke 1:35; John 1:1-2, 14; 2 Cor 5:19-21; Gal 4:4-5; Phil 2:5-8)
We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ accomplished our redemption
through His death on the cross as a representative, vicarious, substitutionary sacrifice, and that our justification is made sure by His literal, physical resurrection from the dead. That Jesus
Christ made atonement for the sins of all mankind through the shedding of His precious incorruptible blood on the cross, and that His blood is sufficient for the reconciliation for all mankind.
(Acts 2:18-36; Rom 3:24-25; Eph 1:7; 1 Pet 2:24; 1:3-5)
We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ ascended to Heaven and is now exalted at the right hand of God where, as our High Priest, He presently fulfills the ministry of Representative, Intercessor, and Advocate.
(Acts 1:9-10; Rom 8:34; Heb 9:24; 7:25; 1 John 2:1-2)
The Person and
Work of The Holy Spirit:
We believe that the Holy Spirit is co-equal with God the Father and God the Son. As the third person of the Trinity, He convicts the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment; and, that He is the Supernatural Agent in regeneration, adopting believers into the family of God, entering them, as citizens, into the Kingdom of God, indwelling and sealing them unto the day of redemption.
(John 16:8-11; Rom 8:15-16; 1 Cor 12:12-14; 2 Cor 3:6; Eph 1:13-14)
We believe that the Holy Spirit is the Comforter and divine teacher who instructs believers in all spiritual matters by giving understanding through the Word of God. We believe that it is the privilege and duty
of all the saved to be filled with the Spirit.
(Eph 1:17-18; 5:18; 1 John 2:20, 27, John 14:16, 26; 1 Cor 2:11-14)
We believe that the Holy Spirit is sovereign in the bestowal of spiritual gifts to every believer. He uniquely uses evangelists, pastors, and
teachers to equip believers in the Church to do the work of the ministry.
(Rom 12:3-8; 1 Cor 12:4-11, 28; Eph 4:7-12)
We believe that the miraculous sign gifts of the Holy Spirit, such as speaking in tongues and the gift of healing were temporary demonstrations of the believer’s salvation and have ceased with
the completion of the sixty-six (66) canonical books of the Holy Bible. Speaking in tongues was never the common or
necessary sign of the baptism or filling of the Holy Spirit. Ultimate deliverance of the body from sickness or death awaits the consummation of our salvation in the resurrection,
although God frequently chooses to answer the prayers of believers for physical healing.
(1 Cor 1:22; 13:8; 14:21-22)
We believe that there is one,
and only one, living and true God, an infinite, intelligent Spirit, the maker and supreme ruler of heaven and earth; inexpressibly glorious in holiness and worthy of all possible honor, confidence and love; that in the unity of the eternally existing Godhead there are three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, equal in every divine perfection, and executing distinct, but harmonious, offices in the great work of redemption. God is a person, eternally existing, as a
Trinity in unity: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit; three distinct persons and yet one God.
(Gen 17:1; Psa 83:18; 90:2; Jer 10:10; Matt 28:19; Mark 12:30; John 15:26; Rom 11:33; Eph 2:18; Phil 2:5-6; 1 Tim 1:17; 1 John 5:7)
God The Father:
We believe in one triune God, Holy in person, just in judgment, merciful to the repentant, and worthy of all worship and praise. God desires that
those that worship Him do so in spirit and in truth. His counsel shall forever stand, and the good pleasure of His will shall be accomplished, conforming believers into the image of His only Begotten Son and reserving the unjust for the day of judgment.
(John 4:24; 1 John 5:7; Isa 46:10; Rom 8:29; Eph 1:5; 1 Pet 1:16; Psa 89:14; Isa 9:7; 45:21; Zeph 3:5; John 5:30; Rom 3:26; Rev 15:3)
The Person and Work of Christ:
We believe in the deity, pre-existence, virgin born, sinless
perfection, bodily resurrection, and ascension into heaven of Jesus
Christ. He presently intercedes for the redeemed as our High Priest and Advocate. Equal with God, He is the Son of God, and God the Son. Saviour of sinners by His shed blood, He is The Eternal Word of God, LORD of Lords, and KING of kings, who shall in the last days, judge the deeds of all men.
(Isa 7:14; 9:6; Luke 1:35; John 1:1-2, 14; 2 Cor 5:19-21; Gal 4:4-5; Phil 2:5-8)
We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ accomplished our redemption
through His death on the cross as a representative, vicarious, substitutionary sacrifice, and that our justification is made sure by His literal, physical resurrection from the dead. That Jesus
Christ made atonement for the sins of all mankind through the shedding of His precious incorruptible blood on the cross, and that His blood is sufficient for the reconciliation for all mankind.
(Acts 2:18-36; Rom 3:24-25; Eph 1:7; 1 Pet 2:24; 1:3-5)
We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ ascended to Heaven and is now exalted at the right hand of God where, as our High Priest, He presently fulfills the ministry of Representative, Intercessor, and Advocate.
(Acts 1:9-10; Rom 8:34; Heb 9:24; 7:25; 1 John 2:1-2)
The Person and
Work of The Holy Spirit:
We believe that the Holy Spirit is co-equal with God the Father and God the Son. As the third person of the Trinity, He convicts the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment; and, that He is the Supernatural Agent in regeneration, adopting believers into the family of God, entering them, as citizens, into the Kingdom of God, indwelling and sealing them unto the day of redemption.
(John 16:8-11; Rom 8:15-16; 1 Cor 12:12-14; 2 Cor 3:6; Eph 1:13-14)
We believe that the Holy Spirit is the Comforter and divine teacher who instructs believers in all spiritual matters by giving understanding through the Word of God. We believe that it is the privilege and duty
of all the saved to be filled with the Spirit.
(Eph 1:17-18; 5:18; 1 John 2:20, 27, John 14:16, 26; 1 Cor 2:11-14)
We believe that the Holy Spirit is sovereign in the bestowal of spiritual gifts to every believer. He uniquely uses evangelists, pastors, and
teachers to equip believers in the Church to do the work of the ministry.
(Rom 12:3-8; 1 Cor 12:4-11, 28; Eph 4:7-12)
We believe that the miraculous sign gifts of the Holy Spirit, such as speaking in tongues and the gift of healing were temporary demonstrations of the believer’s salvation and have ceased with
the completion of the sixty-six (66) canonical books of the Holy Bible. Speaking in tongues was never the common or
necessary sign of the baptism or filling of the Holy Spirit. Ultimate deliverance of the body from sickness or death awaits the consummation of our salvation in the resurrection,
although God frequently chooses to answer the prayers of believers for physical healing.
(1 Cor 1:22; 13:8; 14:21-22)
The Devil or Satan
We believe that Satan was once holy, and enjoyed heavenly honors; but through pride and ambition to be as the Almighty, fell and drew after him a host of angels; that he is now the malignant prince of the power of the air, and the unholy god of this world. We hold him to be man’s great
tempter, the enemy of God and His Christ, the accuser of the saints, the author of all false religions, the chief power behind the present apostasy (rejection of biblical authority); the lord of the antichrist, and the author of all the powers of darkness – destined for the final defeat at the hands of God’s own Son, and judgment for an eternity in hell, a place prepared for him and his angels.
(Isa 14:12-15; Ezek 28:14-17; Matt 4:1-3; 13:25; 25:41; 27:39; Mark 13:21-22; Luke 22:3-4; John 14:30; Eph 2:2; 2 Cor 11:13-15; 1 Thes 3:5; 2 Thes 2:8-11;
1 Pet 5:8; 2 Pet 2:4; 1 John 2:22; 3:8; 4:3; 2 John 7; Jude 6;
Rev 12:7-10; 13:13-14; 19:11,16,20; 20:1-3,10)
tempter, the enemy of God and His Christ, the accuser of the saints, the author of all false religions, the chief power behind the present apostasy (rejection of biblical authority); the lord of the antichrist, and the author of all the powers of darkness – destined for the final defeat at the hands of God’s own Son, and judgment for an eternity in hell, a place prepared for him and his angels.
(Isa 14:12-15; Ezek 28:14-17; Matt 4:1-3; 13:25; 25:41; 27:39; Mark 13:21-22; Luke 22:3-4; John 14:30; Eph 2:2; 2 Cor 11:13-15; 1 Thes 3:5; 2 Thes 2:8-11;
1 Pet 5:8; 2 Pet 2:4; 1 John 2:22; 3:8; 4:3; 2 John 7; Jude 6;
Rev 12:7-10; 13:13-14; 19:11,16,20; 20:1-3,10)
The Creation
We believe in the Genesis account of creation to be six twenty-four hour days and that God rested on the seventh day. We further believe that the Biblical account of creation, in its entirety, is to be accepted literally, and not allegorically or figuratively. All life reproduces only after its own kind, uniquely and intelligently designed by God, created with age. Man is created uniquely in God’s own image and after His own likeness; that man’s creation was not a matter of evolution or evolutionary change of species, or development through interminable periods of time from lower to higher forms. The Bible is the standard of proof for scientific theories, philosophies, or other concepts or ideologies, attempting to provide a foundation for the origins of the earth or universe. We reject all theories, philosophies, and other scientific notions which are contrary to the Word of God.
(Gen 1:1, 11, 24, 26-27; 2:21-23; Ex 20:11; Neh 9:6; Jer 10:12; John 1:3;
Acts 4:24; 17:23-26; Rom 1:20; Col 1:16-17; Heb 11:3; Rev 10:6)
(Gen 1:1, 11, 24, 26-27; 2:21-23; Ex 20:11; Neh 9:6; Jer 10:12; John 1:3;
Acts 4:24; 17:23-26; Rom 1:20; Col 1:16-17; Heb 11:3; Rev 10:6)
Heaven and Hell
Heaven:
We believe in a real, literal Heaven: a place
of bliss and blessedness to which the redeemed shall go and in which they will forever consciously enjoy God and His Holy presence. Heaven in the Bible is referenced (3) three distinct ways:
First Heaven – This is the space between earth and
outer space consisting of our atmosphere.
Second Heaven – The cosmos, pertaining to the universe
and vast number of stars, planets, and galaxies.
Third Heaven – The scriptural dwelling place of God,
surrounded by angelic hosts and the redeemed saints.
(Gen 6:7; Deut 4:19; Matt 6:26; Matt 24:29; John 14:1-3; 2 Cor 5:8; 12:2-4: Col 1:5; Heb 11:16; 12:22-23; 1 Pet 1:3-5; Rev 21:2.)
Hell and the Lake of Fire:
We believe in a real, literal Hell and the Lake of Fire – these are the places of torment, true death, and total separation from God, to which Satan, his angels, and the unredeemed will go, forever to remain,
an eternity with no hope, peace, rest, or comfort.
Hell is a place of torment; unbelievers are cast as they await the final judgment at the Great White Throne. After this judgment, death
and hell are cast into the Lake of Fire. The Lake of Fire
is the second death, which is an eternal place of judgment for Satan and his demons, as well as all those who have rejected Christ. This is the eternal place of torture.
Paradise:
A place of bliss and comfort for Old Testament Saints awaiting the Messianic promise of the redeemer. When, after three days, Christ arose from the dead, He led captivity captive and brought the Old Testament saints into heaven and Paradise was consumed by Hell, as it enlarged.
We reject the erroneous teachings of purgatory, defined as an interim state of waiting, and soul sleep.
(Matt 5:22; 10:28; 23:15; Mark 9:43-48; Luke 12:4,5; 16:19-31; Eph 4:8;
Jam 3:6; Rev 19:20; 20:10,14,15; 21:8.)
We believe in a real, literal Heaven: a place
of bliss and blessedness to which the redeemed shall go and in which they will forever consciously enjoy God and His Holy presence. Heaven in the Bible is referenced (3) three distinct ways:
First Heaven – This is the space between earth and
outer space consisting of our atmosphere.
Second Heaven – The cosmos, pertaining to the universe
and vast number of stars, planets, and galaxies.
Third Heaven – The scriptural dwelling place of God,
surrounded by angelic hosts and the redeemed saints.
(Gen 6:7; Deut 4:19; Matt 6:26; Matt 24:29; John 14:1-3; 2 Cor 5:8; 12:2-4: Col 1:5; Heb 11:16; 12:22-23; 1 Pet 1:3-5; Rev 21:2.)
Hell and the Lake of Fire:
We believe in a real, literal Hell and the Lake of Fire – these are the places of torment, true death, and total separation from God, to which Satan, his angels, and the unredeemed will go, forever to remain,
an eternity with no hope, peace, rest, or comfort.
Hell is a place of torment; unbelievers are cast as they await the final judgment at the Great White Throne. After this judgment, death
and hell are cast into the Lake of Fire. The Lake of Fire
is the second death, which is an eternal place of judgment for Satan and his demons, as well as all those who have rejected Christ. This is the eternal place of torture.
Paradise:
A place of bliss and comfort for Old Testament Saints awaiting the Messianic promise of the redeemer. When, after three days, Christ arose from the dead, He led captivity captive and brought the Old Testament saints into heaven and Paradise was consumed by Hell, as it enlarged.
We reject the erroneous teachings of purgatory, defined as an interim state of waiting, and soul sleep.
(Matt 5:22; 10:28; 23:15; Mark 9:43-48; Luke 12:4,5; 16:19-31; Eph 4:8;
Jam 3:6; Rev 19:20; 20:10,14,15; 21:8.)
The Fall and Depravity of Man
We believe that man was created sinless in the image of his Maker, but by voluntary transgression
(disobedience to the commandments of God), fell from his sinless and perfect state becoming separated from God (death).
Consequently, all mankind is born sinners, after the nature of Adam, are
willful sinners and justly deserving of God’s judgment and condemnation without defense or excuse.
(Gen 3:1-6, 24; Ezek 18:19-20; Rom 1:18, 20, 28, 32;
3:10-19; 5:12, 19; Gal 3:22; Eph 2:1,3; Rev 21:8)
(disobedience to the commandments of God), fell from his sinless and perfect state becoming separated from God (death).
Consequently, all mankind is born sinners, after the nature of Adam, are
willful sinners and justly deserving of God’s judgment and condemnation without defense or excuse.
(Gen 3:1-6, 24; Ezek 18:19-20; Rom 1:18, 20, 28, 32;
3:10-19; 5:12, 19; Gal 3:22; Eph 2:1,3; Rev 21:8)
The Atonement for Sin
We believe that the salvation of sinners is wholly of God’s Grace (unmerited favor); through the one mediator between God and man, Jesus Christ. Who by appointment of the Father, freely took upon Himself human nature, yet without sin, honored the divine law by His personal obedience, and by His death and blood atonement, made a full and vicarious atonement for our sins. His atonement consisted not in
setting us an example by His death as a martyr, but was the voluntary
substitution of Himself, in the sinner’s place; the Just, dying for the unjust. Christ, the Lord, bearing our sins in His own body on the tree; that, having risen from the dead, He is now enthroned in heaven. His wonderful person, having complete empathy for man, shrouded in His divine perfection. He is in every way qualified to be a suitable, compassionate, and all-sufficient Saviour.
(Isa 53:4-7,11-12; Matt 18:11; John 3:16; 10:18; Acts 15:11; Rom 3:24-25;
Gal 1:4; Eph 2:8; Phil 2:7-8; Heb 2:14; 7:25; 9:12-15; 12:2)
setting us an example by His death as a martyr, but was the voluntary
substitution of Himself, in the sinner’s place; the Just, dying for the unjust. Christ, the Lord, bearing our sins in His own body on the tree; that, having risen from the dead, He is now enthroned in heaven. His wonderful person, having complete empathy for man, shrouded in His divine perfection. He is in every way qualified to be a suitable, compassionate, and all-sufficient Saviour.
(Isa 53:4-7,11-12; Matt 18:11; John 3:16; 10:18; Acts 15:11; Rom 3:24-25;
Gal 1:4; Eph 2:8; Phil 2:7-8; Heb 2:14; 7:25; 9:12-15; 12:2)
Faith and Salvation
We believe that salvation is a free gift from God by His grace through faith in the finished work of Christ through His death, burial and resurrection. This salvation is available to all men and women and makes those who believe partakers of the divine nature of God with life eternal. Salvation is brought about through the hearer of the Gospel repenting and believing in Christ as the one true Saviour; being born again instantaneously by the regenerative power of the Holy Spirit, being translated into the kingdom and family of God. Independent of man’s works and will, man is born again solely by faith. Biblical salvation is available to the vilest of sinner and can be prevented by nothing
except for unbelief.
(John 1:12,13; Acts 16:31; Rom 5:1; 10:13,17; 2 Cor 5:17; Gal 2:20; 5:22-23;
Eph 2:1,8-10; 2 Thes 3:3; Titus 3:5; Heb 11:1,6; Jam 2:14-26; 2 Pet 1:4;
Rev 21:8.)
except for unbelief.
(John 1:12,13; Acts 16:31; Rom 5:1; 10:13,17; 2 Cor 5:17; Gal 2:20; 5:22-23;
Eph 2:1,8-10; 2 Thes 3:3; Titus 3:5; Heb 11:1,6; Jam 2:14-26; 2 Pet 1:4;
Rev 21:8.)
Justification
We believe justification to be the judicial pardon by God the Father which is secured by Jesus Christ and that it is obtained only through faith in the substitutionary work of Christ. Justification includes the complete pardon of sin, the gift of eternal life, the imputation of Christ’s
righteousness, and citizenship in the Kingdom of God; that it is bestowed not in consideration of any works of righteousness which we have done; but solely through faith in the Redeemer’s blood sacrifice.
(Isa 53:11; Hab 2:4; Zech 13:1; Acts 13:39; Rom 1:17; 4:1; 5:1-9; 8:1; Gal 3:11; Titus 3:5-7; Heb 10:38)
righteousness, and citizenship in the Kingdom of God; that it is bestowed not in consideration of any works of righteousness which we have done; but solely through faith in the Redeemer’s blood sacrifice.
(Isa 53:11; Hab 2:4; Zech 13:1; Acts 13:39; Rom 1:17; 4:1; 5:1-9; 8:1; Gal 3:11; Titus 3:5-7; Heb 10:38)
Eternal Security of the Believer
We believe that all the redeemed, once saved, are kept
by God’s power and are thus secure in Christ forever.
(John 6:37-40; 10:27-30; Rom 8:1; 38-39; 1 Cor 1:4-8; 1 Pet 1:4-5)
We believe that it is the privilege of believers to
rejoice in the assurance of their salvation through the testimony of God’s Word, which, however, clearly forbids the use of Christian liberty as an occasion to the flesh.
(Rom 13:13-14; Gal 5:13; Titus 2:11-15)
by God’s power and are thus secure in Christ forever.
(John 6:37-40; 10:27-30; Rom 8:1; 38-39; 1 Cor 1:4-8; 1 Pet 1:4-5)
We believe that it is the privilege of believers to
rejoice in the assurance of their salvation through the testimony of God’s Word, which, however, clearly forbids the use of Christian liberty as an occasion to the flesh.
(Rom 13:13-14; Gal 5:13; Titus 2:11-15)
The Christian Walk and Separation
Christian Testimony:
We believe that believers should maintain a godly testimony and live in such a way that their lives do not bring reproach upon their Saviour. God commands His people to separate from all religious apostasy, all worldly and sinful pleasures, practices, and associations, and to refrain from all immodest and immoderate appearances, piercings, bodily markings, and associations as commanded by God. We stand against any and all worldly philosophies that seek to destroy or undermine the truth of Biblical Christianity.
(Lev 19:28; Rom 1:28-32; 12:1-2; 14:13; 1 Cor 6:19-20;
2 Cor 6:14-7:1; 2 Tim 3:1-5; 2 John 9-11)
Fruits of the Spirit:
We believe the believer should be an exemplary model of Christ
(Christian) and display the fruits of the Spirit (Love, Joy, Peace,
Longsuffering, Gentleness, Goodness, Faith, Meekness, and Temperance). And should avoid excessive anger, tattling,
backbiting, and all gossip or secretive meetings regarding personal issues of Church members, Church leadership, or practice; to abstain from worldly amusements; to be free from all oath-bound secret societies and partnerships with unbelievers; to abstain from the sale or use of tobacco in any form, intoxicating drink, pornography, and the abuse of medication and other legal or illegal drugs.
(Rom 1:28-32; 2 Cor 6:14-18; Gal 5:19-26)
Love One for Another:
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, taking of revenge, or the threat
or 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.
(Lev 19:18; Matt 5:44-48; Luke 6:31; John 13:34-35; Rom 12:9-10; 17-21; 13:8-10; Phil 2:2-4; 2 Tim 2:24-26; Titus 3:2; 1 John 3:17-18)
Litigation Among Believers:
We believe that Christians are prohibited from
bringing civil lawsuits against other Christians or the Church to resolve
personal disputes. We believe the Church possesses all the resources necessary to resolve personal 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.
(1 Cor 6:1-8; Eph 4:31-32; Matt 18:15-17)
We believe that believers should maintain a godly testimony and live in such a way that their lives do not bring reproach upon their Saviour. God commands His people to separate from all religious apostasy, all worldly and sinful pleasures, practices, and associations, and to refrain from all immodest and immoderate appearances, piercings, bodily markings, and associations as commanded by God. We stand against any and all worldly philosophies that seek to destroy or undermine the truth of Biblical Christianity.
(Lev 19:28; Rom 1:28-32; 12:1-2; 14:13; 1 Cor 6:19-20;
2 Cor 6:14-7:1; 2 Tim 3:1-5; 2 John 9-11)
Fruits of the Spirit:
We believe the believer should be an exemplary model of Christ
(Christian) and display the fruits of the Spirit (Love, Joy, Peace,
Longsuffering, Gentleness, Goodness, Faith, Meekness, and Temperance). And should avoid excessive anger, tattling,
backbiting, and all gossip or secretive meetings regarding personal issues of Church members, Church leadership, or practice; to abstain from worldly amusements; to be free from all oath-bound secret societies and partnerships with unbelievers; to abstain from the sale or use of tobacco in any form, intoxicating drink, pornography, and the abuse of medication and other legal or illegal drugs.
(Rom 1:28-32; 2 Cor 6:14-18; Gal 5:19-26)
Love One for Another:
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, taking of revenge, or the threat
or 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.
(Lev 19:18; Matt 5:44-48; Luke 6:31; John 13:34-35; Rom 12:9-10; 17-21; 13:8-10; Phil 2:2-4; 2 Tim 2:24-26; Titus 3:2; 1 John 3:17-18)
Litigation Among Believers:
We believe that Christians are prohibited from
bringing civil lawsuits against other Christians or the Church to resolve
personal disputes. We believe the Church possesses all the resources necessary to resolve personal 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.
(1 Cor 6:1-8; Eph 4:31-32; Matt 18:15-17)
The Church
We believe that a Church of the Lord Jesus Christ is a
local congregation of baptized believers associated by the fellowship of the Gospel; observing the ordinances of the Lord Jesus Christ; sponsored solely by tithes and offerings; governed by His laws; exercising the gifts, rights, and privileges invested in them by His Word; to occupy as His virgin bride till He comes; that its officers of ordination are pastors and deacons whose qualifications, claims and duties are clearly defined in the Scriptures. We believe that the local Church, which is the body and the espoused bride of Christ, is solely made up of baptized born-again believers. We believe that each local Church is the body of Christ and has the responsibility to fulfill the “Great Commission” as commanded by God.
(1 Cor 12:12-14; 2 Cor 11:2; Eph 1:22-23; 5:25-27)
We believe that the establishment and continuance of
local Churches is clearly taught and defined in the New Testament.
(Acts 14:27; 20:17, 28-32; 1 Tim 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-11)
We believe in the autonomy of the local Church free of
any external authority or controls, and any affiliations, societies,
organizations, associations, or agencies this Church affiliates with to further the objectives stated in the Purpose Statement are not authoritative in matters of Church practice or belief.
(Acts 13:1-4; 15:19- 31; 20:28; Rom 6:1, 4; 1 Cor 3:9,
16; 5:4-7, 13; 1 Pet 5:1-4)
We believe the true mission of the Church is found in
the Great Commission. First, to declare the Gospel leading men to salvation by grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, to instruct them to follow in believer’s baptism and build them
to be disciples indeed by teaching and instructing the whole counsel of God; and third, to support Church planting efforts and other Missions at home and abroad, as He has commanded. We do not
believe in the reversal of this order.
(Mal 3:8-12; Matt 16:16-18; 28:18-20; Acts 2:41-42;
5:11; 20:17)
We hold that the local Church has the absolute right
of self-government, free from the interference of any hierarchy of individuals or organizations; and that the one and only superintendent is Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit; that it is scriptural for true Churches of like faith to cooperate with each other in contending for the faith and for the furtherance of the Gospel; that every Church is the sole and only judge of the measure and method of its cooperation; on all matters of membership, policy, government, discipline, and benevolence; the will of the local Church is final.
(Rom 16:5; 1 Cor 11:23-34; 12:13; 2 Cor 8; 9; Eph 4:3,11-16;
Col 1:18; 4:15; 1 Tim 3:1-16; Titus 1:6-9; Rev 19:7-9; 22:16-21.)
local congregation of baptized believers associated by the fellowship of the Gospel; observing the ordinances of the Lord Jesus Christ; sponsored solely by tithes and offerings; governed by His laws; exercising the gifts, rights, and privileges invested in them by His Word; to occupy as His virgin bride till He comes; that its officers of ordination are pastors and deacons whose qualifications, claims and duties are clearly defined in the Scriptures. We believe that the local Church, which is the body and the espoused bride of Christ, is solely made up of baptized born-again believers. We believe that each local Church is the body of Christ and has the responsibility to fulfill the “Great Commission” as commanded by God.
(1 Cor 12:12-14; 2 Cor 11:2; Eph 1:22-23; 5:25-27)
We believe that the establishment and continuance of
local Churches is clearly taught and defined in the New Testament.
(Acts 14:27; 20:17, 28-32; 1 Tim 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-11)
We believe in the autonomy of the local Church free of
any external authority or controls, and any affiliations, societies,
organizations, associations, or agencies this Church affiliates with to further the objectives stated in the Purpose Statement are not authoritative in matters of Church practice or belief.
(Acts 13:1-4; 15:19- 31; 20:28; Rom 6:1, 4; 1 Cor 3:9,
16; 5:4-7, 13; 1 Pet 5:1-4)
We believe the true mission of the Church is found in
the Great Commission. First, to declare the Gospel leading men to salvation by grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, to instruct them to follow in believer’s baptism and build them
to be disciples indeed by teaching and instructing the whole counsel of God; and third, to support Church planting efforts and other Missions at home and abroad, as He has commanded. We do not
believe in the reversal of this order.
(Mal 3:8-12; Matt 16:16-18; 28:18-20; Acts 2:41-42;
5:11; 20:17)
We hold that the local Church has the absolute right
of self-government, free from the interference of any hierarchy of individuals or organizations; and that the one and only superintendent is Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit; that it is scriptural for true Churches of like faith to cooperate with each other in contending for the faith and for the furtherance of the Gospel; that every Church is the sole and only judge of the measure and method of its cooperation; on all matters of membership, policy, government, discipline, and benevolence; the will of the local Church is final.
(Rom 16:5; 1 Cor 11:23-34; 12:13; 2 Cor 8; 9; Eph 4:3,11-16;
Col 1:18; 4:15; 1 Tim 3:1-16; Titus 1:6-9; Rev 19:7-9; 22:16-21.)
Baptism and the Lords Supper
Baptism:
We believe that Christian baptism should be the first act of obedience for one that has trusted in Christ as Lord and Saviour. Baptism
has no redemptive power, but is symbolic through the immersion in water of a believer, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, with the authority of the local Church, to show forth a testimony of our faith in the crucified, buried, and risen Saviour, with its effect in our death to sin and resurrection to a new life.
We hold that any baptism that would deviate from Biblical standards is not recognized as baptism. Sprinkling, pouring, baptism of infants, baptism before salvation, or baptisms conducted by
groups or Churches that are not of like faith and practice are not considered biblical baptism.
(Matt 3:16; 28:19; Mark 16:16; Acts 2:41; Rom 6:3-5; 1
Cor 12:13; 1 Pet 3:21, 22.)
The Lord’s Supper:
We believe that the Lord’s Supper is the commemoration and remembrance of Christ’s death on Calvary by the members of the local Church, to be practiced until His return, and that it is always to be preceded by a solemn self-examination. The exercise of the Lord’s Supper has no redemptive power, nor preferential qualities in respect to acquiring the grace of God. However, an individual that
partakes of the Lord’s Supper unworthily shall surely bare their guilt.
OBC discourages members of other churches to participate in the Lord’s Supper when it is observed by us. While we may discourage non-members from participating, we will not forbid anyone from
participating; letting them practice self-examination as a criterion for participation.
(Matt 26:20-29; Mark 14:22-26; Luke 22:19-20; 1 Cor 11:23-32.)
We believe that Christian baptism should be the first act of obedience for one that has trusted in Christ as Lord and Saviour. Baptism
has no redemptive power, but is symbolic through the immersion in water of a believer, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, with the authority of the local Church, to show forth a testimony of our faith in the crucified, buried, and risen Saviour, with its effect in our death to sin and resurrection to a new life.
We hold that any baptism that would deviate from Biblical standards is not recognized as baptism. Sprinkling, pouring, baptism of infants, baptism before salvation, or baptisms conducted by
groups or Churches that are not of like faith and practice are not considered biblical baptism.
(Matt 3:16; 28:19; Mark 16:16; Acts 2:41; Rom 6:3-5; 1
Cor 12:13; 1 Pet 3:21, 22.)
The Lord’s Supper:
We believe that the Lord’s Supper is the commemoration and remembrance of Christ’s death on Calvary by the members of the local Church, to be practiced until His return, and that it is always to be preceded by a solemn self-examination. The exercise of the Lord’s Supper has no redemptive power, nor preferential qualities in respect to acquiring the grace of God. However, an individual that
partakes of the Lord’s Supper unworthily shall surely bare their guilt.
OBC discourages members of other churches to participate in the Lord’s Supper when it is observed by us. While we may discourage non-members from participating, we will not forbid anyone from
participating; letting them practice self-examination as a criterion for participation.
(Matt 26:20-29; Mark 14:22-26; Luke 22:19-20; 1 Cor 11:23-32.)
Eternal State
We believe in the bodily resurrection of all men, the saved to eternal life, and the unsaved to judgment and everlasting punishment.
(Matt 25:46; John 5:28, 29; 11:25-26; Rev 20:5-6, 12-13)
We believe that the souls of the redeemed are, at
death, absent from the body and present with the Lord, where in conscious bliss they await the first resurrection, when spirit, soul, and body are reunited to be glorified forever with the Lord.
(Luke 23:43; 2 Cor 5:8; Phil 1:23; 3:21; 1 Thes 4:16-17; Rev 20:4-6)
We believe that the souls of unbelievers remain, after
death, in conscious punishment and torment until the second resurrection, when with soul and body reunited, they shall appear at the Great White Throne of Judgment, and shall be cast into the Lake of Fire, not to be annihilated, but to suffer everlasting conscious punishment and torment.
(Matt 25:41-46; Mark 9:43-48; Luke 16:19-26; 2 Thes 1:7-9;
Jude 6-7; Rev 20:11-15)
(Matt 25:46; John 5:28, 29; 11:25-26; Rev 20:5-6, 12-13)
We believe that the souls of the redeemed are, at
death, absent from the body and present with the Lord, where in conscious bliss they await the first resurrection, when spirit, soul, and body are reunited to be glorified forever with the Lord.
(Luke 23:43; 2 Cor 5:8; Phil 1:23; 3:21; 1 Thes 4:16-17; Rev 20:4-6)
We believe that the souls of unbelievers remain, after
death, in conscious punishment and torment until the second resurrection, when with soul and body reunited, they shall appear at the Great White Throne of Judgment, and shall be cast into the Lake of Fire, not to be annihilated, but to suffer everlasting conscious punishment and torment.
(Matt 25:41-46; Mark 9:43-48; Luke 16:19-26; 2 Thes 1:7-9;
Jude 6-7; Rev 20:11-15)
The Second Coming of Christ
We believe in the bodily, personal, imminent, and
premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ. We believe that He will come in the air, as a thief in the night, before the revelation of the Antichrist; to catch away those that sleep and those that
presently live in Christ; and that He will come with His saints at the close of the tribulation to judge the living nations, and to set up His millennial
kingdom on earth. We believe in the bodily resurrection of the believer. We believe that those who sleep in Jesus will be reunited with their resurrected glorified bodies, raised at the trump of Christ and will be caught up with the transformed living saints to meet the Lord in the air; and that the wicked dead will be raised at the close of the Millennial Kingdom and stand at the Great White Throne of Judgment to be judged and then cast into the Lake of Fire.
(Zech 14:4-11; John 14:3; Acts 1:11; 1 Cor 5:51-53; 2 Cor 5:10;
1 Thes 1:10; 4:13-18; 5:9; 2 Thes 1:7-10; Heb 9:28; Jam 5:8;
Rev 19:11-16; 20:1-15)
premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ. We believe that He will come in the air, as a thief in the night, before the revelation of the Antichrist; to catch away those that sleep and those that
presently live in Christ; and that He will come with His saints at the close of the tribulation to judge the living nations, and to set up His millennial
kingdom on earth. We believe in the bodily resurrection of the believer. We believe that those who sleep in Jesus will be reunited with their resurrected glorified bodies, raised at the trump of Christ and will be caught up with the transformed living saints to meet the Lord in the air; and that the wicked dead will be raised at the close of the Millennial Kingdom and stand at the Great White Throne of Judgment to be judged and then cast into the Lake of Fire.
(Zech 14:4-11; John 14:3; Acts 1:11; 1 Cor 5:51-53; 2 Cor 5:10;
1 Thes 1:10; 4:13-18; 5:9; 2 Thes 1:7-10; Heb 9:28; Jam 5:8;
Rev 19:11-16; 20:1-15)
Civil Government
We believe that the state shall not interfere in the Church nor its affairs. The First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States of America clearly states, “Congress shall make no laws respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” We believe that civil government is of divine appointment for the interests and good order of human society and that the magistrates are to be prayed for conscientiously and honored and obeyed except in those laws, licenses, principles and things that if practiced are contrary to the written Word of God.
(Acts 5:28-32; Rom 13:1-7; 1 Tim 2:1-2; 1 Pet 2:13-17)
(Acts 5:28-32; Rom 13:1-7; 1 Tim 2:1-2; 1 Pet 2:13-17)
The Family
Institution of the Family:
We believe that God established the family as His first critical institution as He joined Adam and Eve into one flesh in
marriage, and the family is the strength of the Church and our nations. Marriage is the God given institution between one man and one woman as created by God, and we believe all alternative unions to this arrangement is contrary to the Holy Scriptures and this covenant does
not acknowledge nor recognize such alternatives. Positions in the Family: We believe that God has ordained the family as the foundational institution of human society. The husband is the head of the wife (Eph. 5:25) and is to love his wife as Christ loves the Church. The wife is the helpmeet to her husband and is to submit herself to the Scriptural leadership of her husband (Eph. 5:22), as the Church submits to the headship of Christ. Children are an heritage from the Lord. Parents are responsible for teaching their children spiritual and moral values and leading them, through consistent lifestyle examples and appropriate discipline, including Scriptural corporal correction.
(Gen 1:26-28; Ex 20:12; Deut 6:4-9; Psa 127:3-5; Prov 19:18; 22:15; 23:13-14; Mark 10:6-12; 1 Cor 7:1-16; Eph 5:21-33; 6:1-4, Col 3:18-21;
Heb 13:4; 1 Pet 3:1-7)
Physical Intimacy:
We believe that sexual relationships must be consensual and exclusively within the confines of marriage. God has commanded no intimate sexual activity be engaged in, outside of a biblical marriage. We believe that any form of homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexuality, bestiality, incest, fornication, adultery, transgenderism, and pornography are sinful perversions of God’s gift of sex.
(Gen 2:24; 19:5, 13; 26:8-9; Lev 18:1-30;
Rom 1: 26-29; 1 Cor 5:1; 6:9; 1 Thes 4:1-8; Heb 13:4)
Divorce and Remarriage:
We believe that God disapproves of and forbids divorce and intends marriage to last until one of the spouses dies. Divorce and remarriage is regarded as adultery with the only biblical exception being fornication (Matthew 5:32). However, divorced and remarried persons or divorced persons may hold positions of service in the Church and be greatly used of God for Christian service. If a divorced or remarried person is nominated for positions within the Church, they must be approved by the Pastor, in which careful consideration shall be taken, to ensure their marital status does not conflict with the tenets of the ministry in which they are desiring to serve.
Office of Pastor:
If either Pastor or his spouse has been divorced, they
may not be considered for the office of a Pastor, as they are biblically called to be an example to the Church of purity and service.
Office of Deacon:
If either Deacon or his spouse has been divorced, they
may not be considered for the office of a Deacon, as they are biblically called to be an example to the Church of purity and service.
(Mal 2:14-17; Matt 19:3-12; Rom 7:1-3; 1 Tim 3:2, 12; Titus 1:6)
We believe that God established the family as His first critical institution as He joined Adam and Eve into one flesh in
marriage, and the family is the strength of the Church and our nations. Marriage is the God given institution between one man and one woman as created by God, and we believe all alternative unions to this arrangement is contrary to the Holy Scriptures and this covenant does
not acknowledge nor recognize such alternatives. Positions in the Family: We believe that God has ordained the family as the foundational institution of human society. The husband is the head of the wife (Eph. 5:25) and is to love his wife as Christ loves the Church. The wife is the helpmeet to her husband and is to submit herself to the Scriptural leadership of her husband (Eph. 5:22), as the Church submits to the headship of Christ. Children are an heritage from the Lord. Parents are responsible for teaching their children spiritual and moral values and leading them, through consistent lifestyle examples and appropriate discipline, including Scriptural corporal correction.
(Gen 1:26-28; Ex 20:12; Deut 6:4-9; Psa 127:3-5; Prov 19:18; 22:15; 23:13-14; Mark 10:6-12; 1 Cor 7:1-16; Eph 5:21-33; 6:1-4, Col 3:18-21;
Heb 13:4; 1 Pet 3:1-7)
Physical Intimacy:
We believe that sexual relationships must be consensual and exclusively within the confines of marriage. God has commanded no intimate sexual activity be engaged in, outside of a biblical marriage. We believe that any form of homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexuality, bestiality, incest, fornication, adultery, transgenderism, and pornography are sinful perversions of God’s gift of sex.
(Gen 2:24; 19:5, 13; 26:8-9; Lev 18:1-30;
Rom 1: 26-29; 1 Cor 5:1; 6:9; 1 Thes 4:1-8; Heb 13:4)
Divorce and Remarriage:
We believe that God disapproves of and forbids divorce and intends marriage to last until one of the spouses dies. Divorce and remarriage is regarded as adultery with the only biblical exception being fornication (Matthew 5:32). However, divorced and remarried persons or divorced persons may hold positions of service in the Church and be greatly used of God for Christian service. If a divorced or remarried person is nominated for positions within the Church, they must be approved by the Pastor, in which careful consideration shall be taken, to ensure their marital status does not conflict with the tenets of the ministry in which they are desiring to serve.
Office of Pastor:
If either Pastor or his spouse has been divorced, they
may not be considered for the office of a Pastor, as they are biblically called to be an example to the Church of purity and service.
Office of Deacon:
If either Deacon or his spouse has been divorced, they
may not be considered for the office of a Deacon, as they are biblically called to be an example to the Church of purity and service.
(Mal 2:14-17; Matt 19:3-12; Rom 7:1-3; 1 Tim 3:2, 12; Titus 1:6)
Respect for Human Life
As created beings, we believe God has endowed us with the unique ability to co-create after our own kind through childbirth. As this special
characteristic is precious to the believer, we hold life as a precious gift and should not be wasted. We believe life begins at conception as recorded in the Holy Scriptures and shall not be terminated prematurely or as a matter of convenience. Examples of such unnatural terminations:
Abortion:
Abortion constitutes the unjustified, unexcused taking of unborn human life. Abortion is murder (Ex. 22:23). We reject any teaching that abortions of pregnancies due to rape, incest, birth defects, gender selection, birth or population control, or the physical or mental well-being of the mother are acceptable.
(Job 3:16; Psa 51:5; 139:14-16; Isa 44:24; 49:1, 5; Jer 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 medical procedures that are extraordinary or disproportionate to the expected outcome can be a legitimate refusal of overzealous treatment.
(Ex 20:13, 23:7; Matt 5:21; Acts 17:28)
Discrimination:
We believe all men are created equal in the image of God, and does not
discriminate in attendance or membership based on ethnicity, skin tone,
economic status, or other external factors. We discriminate Church membership and service solely on the basis of the individual’s belief in Christ. Jesus died for all people, from all countries, groups, and tongues. When a person trusts in Christ, they become a child of God and are eligible to join the Church and serve. We believe, true believers as they are moved by the Holy Ghost will dissolve all behavior or relationships contrary to this constitution. Until such changes are evident, new members will be limited in their ability to serve at the
discretion of the Pastor. Failure to adopt the prescribed Christian Walk and the church constitution, may lead to Church discipline or exclusion as defined in the constitution.
(Gen 1:26, John 3:16, Rom 10:12)
characteristic is precious to the believer, we hold life as a precious gift and should not be wasted. We believe life begins at conception as recorded in the Holy Scriptures and shall not be terminated prematurely or as a matter of convenience. Examples of such unnatural terminations:
Abortion:
Abortion constitutes the unjustified, unexcused taking of unborn human life. Abortion is murder (Ex. 22:23). We reject any teaching that abortions of pregnancies due to rape, incest, birth defects, gender selection, birth or population control, or the physical or mental well-being of the mother are acceptable.
(Job 3:16; Psa 51:5; 139:14-16; Isa 44:24; 49:1, 5; Jer 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 medical procedures that are extraordinary or disproportionate to the expected outcome can be a legitimate refusal of overzealous treatment.
(Ex 20:13, 23:7; Matt 5:21; Acts 17:28)
Discrimination:
We believe all men are created equal in the image of God, and does not
discriminate in attendance or membership based on ethnicity, skin tone,
economic status, or other external factors. We discriminate Church membership and service solely on the basis of the individual’s belief in Christ. Jesus died for all people, from all countries, groups, and tongues. When a person trusts in Christ, they become a child of God and are eligible to join the Church and serve. We believe, true believers as they are moved by the Holy Ghost will dissolve all behavior or relationships contrary to this constitution. Until such changes are evident, new members will be limited in their ability to serve at the
discretion of the Pastor. Failure to adopt the prescribed Christian Walk and the church constitution, may lead to Church discipline or exclusion as defined in the constitution.
(Gen 1:26, John 3:16, Rom 10:12)
Missions
We believe that God has given the Church a great commission to proclaim the Gospel to all nations so that there might be a great multitude from every nation, tribe, ethnic group, and language group who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. As ambassadors of Christ, we must use all available means to go to the foreign nations and not wait for them to come to us.
(Matt 28:19-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:46-48; John 20:21;
Acts 1:8; 2 Cor 5:20)
(Matt 28:19-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:46-48; John 20:21;
Acts 1:8; 2 Cor 5:20)