Our Core Values

 When we speak of the sufficiency of scripture, we refer to the fact that the Bible is the final authority in all matters of faith and practice.  Therefore, we continue to make every effort to structure our church according to the biblical mandate.  We are not perfect, but we are always reforming (Deuteronomy 4:2; 12:32; Proverbs 30:6; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Hebrews 1:1-2; 2 Peter 1:20-21; Revelation 22:19). 

 Our mission is not to get as many people to ‘walk the aisle’ as possible.  We desire to see true conversion.  We constantly proclaim and explain the gospel, and take our time with people struggling to understand what it means to follow Christ (Romans 3:23; 5:8; 10:9-14; Ephesians 2:1-10; Matthew 7:21-23; Luke 6:46;  2 Corinthians 13:5, etc).  We are especially careful with children and would never manipulate or rush any child (Matt. 18:6; Mark 9:42; Luke 17:2). 

 The New Testament has surprisingly little to say about worship styles.  However, one thing is sure, we are to engage in Christ exalting worship through praying, preaching, Scripture reading, singing, giving, honoring and obeying God (John 4:23-24; Romans 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 14:15; Ephesians 5:18-20; Philippians 2:9-11; Colossians 3:16). 

 Christianity is not merely a religion, it is also a lifestyle, a philosophy; a worldview.  We are to think biblically about every aspect of our lives (Romans 12:1-2; II Corinthians 10:5-6; Colossians 2:8; 1 Peter 1:14-16). 

 The Church is not a building, but a community of believers. As such, we are to live in fellowship and community with one another.  We must do more than just occupy pews near each other on a weekly basis to call ourselves a church. (Matthew 18:15-18; Romans 12:3-18; Acts 2:41-47; 4:32-35; 6:1-7; Hebrews 13:17) 

 God has given clearly defined roles to men and women in the home and in the church (I Corinthians 16:13-14; I Kings 2:1-3; Proverbs 31, 12:4; Titus 2:3-5; I Tim 5:14).  While these roles have come under attack in our culture, God has not changed and we embrace, celebrate and teach these biblical truths. 

 While the church is called to make disciples, it is clear that God has given the family as the primary discipling agent.  Children are entrusted to parents for their spiritual nurture (Genesis 12:8; Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Psalm 78:5-8; Psalm 113:3; Ephesians 6:1-4; II Tim. 3:14-15). 

 As believers, we have been created not only for work, but also for good works.  We have been gifted for service within the body and have given the supreme example of service and sacrifice in the person of Christ.  We have also been warned against possessing a dead faith (Eph. 2:10; Mt. 20:28; Js. 2:14-26).