Introduction
We believe that all Christian doctrines are important; however, we don’t treat all of them the same. Our Core Beliefs are ones which Orthodox Christianity has held for hundreds of years. We take these Core Beliefs from two creeds, which are based on Scripture: The Nicene Creed and The Apostles’ Creed.
Core Beliefs
- We believe in one God, existing eternally in three persons (The Trinity): God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), and God the Holy Spirit. All three persons of the Trinity are co-equal, co-eternal, and co-powerful.
- We believe in God the Father, maker of Heaven and earth; of all that is seen and unseen.
- We believe in God the Son, the Word made flesh, Light of the world, Lord over all creation. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of a virgin (Mary), fully God and fully man. From Him and through Him all things were made, and only through Him is there forgiveness and salvation.
- Jesus lived a sinless and perfect life, was crucified for our sins, died, and was buried; on the third day He rose from the dead, ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God the Father. He will one day return to establish His perfect Kingdom forever and will judge both the living and the dead.
- We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Advocate, Counselor, and Sanctifier. He leads us into all truth, convicts the world of sin, of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment; purifying, empowering, and filling all those who have surrendered their lives to Jesus.
- We believe in one Church, one baptism, the communion of the saints, the forgiveness of sins, the eternal resurrection of the body, and we believe in God’s coming eternal Kingdom.
Committed Beliefs
There are other beliefs that Christians are committed to where there is not 100% agreement. Beliefs about predestination, the security of the believer, the gifts of the Spirit, the time of Christ’s return, and others. These Committed Beliefs are ones each believer may have strong opinions on and attachments to; however, we recognize there is a wide range of understandings on these beliefs, and we seek to respect and extend grace to all who hold them.