Sunday, May 27, 2007
MY FIRST BLOG
This is my first blog here on blogspot; it's my supplement to my myspace: www.myspace.com/dans_revolution. check it out
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About Me
- dan's revolution
- I am a believer, convinced to the core that Jesus of Nazareth was and is God's chosen one, the messiah. I am an existentialist, and I believe life is a search for meaning and purpose. I believe that God's messiah provides that meaning and purpose and that in the end, the meaning of life is to participate fully in the life of God. I believe people have within themselves the imago dei, the image of God, and the more fully that image shines through the more human we are and the closer to health we get. It is my passion to help people bring forth the imago dei within them to heal the wounds our world has inflicted upon them. I am a husband; one of my greatest joys is to bring a smile to my wife's face. I am a father, and it is overwhelming in its duties and promises, its sacrifices and rewards. I value above almost all else compassion and faith. I believe God has gifted me as a counselor first and as a teacher second and that I am called to provide an incarnational ministry to God's hurting people. This site is for "deeper" issues, doctrinal stuff and the like. You can comment at me at my blog at www.messianicexistenialist.blogspot.com.
Dan's Doctrinal Statement
Ok, I think I'm finally done with this.
PREAMBLE:
I believe in a personal, organized, doctrinal statement as a means of keeping oneself graounded in the faith. Having studied these issues thoroughly and coming to clear conclusions, my personal doctrinal statement serves as a reference in my mind for my theological and ecclesiastical dealings.
I believe that you do not have to share my doctrinal statment to be worthy of fellowship and salvation. I believe that the essentials one must believe to be called a Christian are these: 1. That Jesus is God, that he came in the flesh, that he died on the cross, that he rose again and that he will return. 2. That grace and forgiveness are provided by the blood of Christ. 3. That the Bible is the Word of God and the final standard for Christian faith and practice.
I believe that in doctrinal matters believers should strive for this goal: "In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, love."
DOCTRINE OF GOD:
The Nature of God
I believe that there is only one true God (Deut 6:4, Isa 44:6), who in essence is three persons (Matt 28:29, 2 Cor 13:14). I believe that he is spirit (John 4:24) and is inherently personal (Exodus 3:13-14) and relational (Gen 1:26-27, John 14:21). The Father is God (John 6:27), the Son is God (John 1:2, Heb 1:8), and the Holy Spirit is God (Acts 5:3-4). I believe that all three are equal (Psalm 90:2, Heb 9:14) and eternal (2 Peter 3:8).
Attributes Unique to God
I believe that God is eternal (2 Peter 3:8, Psalm 90:1-2), self-existent (John 5:26), without limit save those he imposes on himself by his own character (Job 11:7-10, Acts 17:28) with regard to power (Matt 19:26), knowledge (Rom 11:33), and presence (Gen 21:33). He is transcendent above creation (Gen 1:1) and yet present and involved in his creation (Psalm 139:7-10, Acts 17:24). I believe that God is unchanging in his essence, attributes, and characteristics (James 1:17, Exodus 3:14) but free to change without any contradiction of his nature in response to relationships (Isa 59:2) and attitudes (Deut 13:17) I believe that he may rightly be called perfect (Deut 32:4, Matt 5:48); these attributes are essential to God in that they are true of him all the time.
Attributes of God Reflected in Man
Certain attributes of God are communicable in that they can be reflected in man. Among these are his righteousness (Rom 3:25-26), wisdom (Rom 11:33-34), holiness (1 Peter 1:16), faithfulness (2 Tim 2:13), grace (Mic 7:18, Eph 2:4-5), and goodness (Nah 1:7). I believe that in God love is made perfect (1 John 4:8), that he shows love to his creation (Matt 10:29), including every human being (John 3:16), that he shows special love to those that are his (Eph 5:25) and that this special love is conditional (John 15:10, Jude 21). These attributes are essential in that they are true of God all the time. I believe that God, in response to circumstances, shows anger and wrath (Exodus 32:10-11, Psalm 11:4-7, Col 3:6). Anger and wrath are non-essential in that they are true of God only some of the time.
The Work of God
I believe that God has an eternal plan which ultimately can not be frustrated (Psalm 33:9-10, Isa 14:24). This plan was set in place before the foundation of the world (Eph 1:4) and he is actively carrying it out (Eph 1:11). I believe that humans are unable to resist in any way some facets of God’s plan (Isa 14:27, Acts 2:23), but other facets are resistible and may be temporarily frustrated through disobedience (Psalm 106:13-15, Acts 14:16). This is not to say that humans can triumph in any way over God’s will; that which is not decreed efficaciously is allowed to happen within God’s sovereignty (Rom 1:21-25).
I believe that God created the universe and all that is in it, both visible and invisible, originally out of nothing (Gen 1, Psalm 33:6, Col 1:16, Heb 11:3) and subsequently out of the material he created (Gen 1:27). I believe that he is sovereign over his creation (Psalm 135:5-7) and that he cares for it and us by his word (Heb 1:3), sovereign decree (Matt 10:29-31) in the godly and ungodly alike (Rom 8:28, Prov 16:4). I believe that as part of God’s divine providence he responds to the prayers of his people (Exodus 3:7, Luke 11:1-13).
I believe that before the foundation of the world God chose, based solely on his glory and purposes, to bestow the blessings of salvation on certain individuals (Eph 1:3-12) that they may in turn serve his plan (Acts 9:15). I believe that for others God chose for salvation those whom he foreknew would make a free-will decision for the blessings of Christ (John 3:16-18, Rom 8:29-30). I believe that human merit and work play no part in obtaining salvation (Eph 2:8-9, 2 Tim 1:9) and that all who do not accept God’s grace through faith will be condemned as the natural consequence for rejecting eternal life (Acts 13:46, Rev 13:8).
God the FatherI believe that the Father is spirit (John 4:24) and that he possess all of the attributes of the Godhead (Eph 3:14-15, 1 Cor 8:6). I believe that out of love for human beings God the Father sent his Son as a propitiation for sin (John 3:16, 1 John 2:2, Rom 3:25) and as a result of God’s work believers are now reconciled to the Father (Eph 2:16). I believe that one can not find distinct roles for each person of the Trinity, including the Father, but that all three persons are in relation to themselves in their roles (Gen 1:26, Psalm 90:2).
DOCTRINE OF CHRIST:
The Person of Christ
I believe that Jesus Christ is fully God, co-eternal and co-equal with the Father and the Holy Spirit as a member of the triune Godhead (John 1:1, 14; John 10:30). Jesus claimed the divine name (John 8:58) as well as equality with God (Matt 28:18-20, John 8:58) and is specifically called God (John 20:28, Rom 9:5). Moreover, Jesus held the prerogatives of God in receiving worship (Matt 4:10, Acts 10:25-26, 1 Cor 1:2), forgiving sin (Mark 2:7, Luke 5:20-24), passing judgement (John 5:26-29), and participating in creation (John 1:3, Heb 1:2).
I believe that Jesus Christ is the incarnation of God, fully human while still fully divine (Col 2:9, Heb 2:14). In so doing the Son of God laid aside his glory and divine lifestyle (John 17:5, Phil 2:5-8), pouring himself into humanity (John 1), submitting himself to the Father (John 4:34), to the leading of the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:14), and to the Law (Gal 4:4).
I believe that Jesus was born of a virgin (Matt 1:18-25) as a natural human being (1 John 1:1) and grew naturally (Luke 2:40, 51-52), experiencing the gamete of human emotions (John 11:3, John 11:35, Mark 3:5) and physical needs (John 4:5-6, Matt 4:2, Mark 4:38, John 19:32-34). I believe that he is able to fully understand and sympathize with the human condition (Heb 2:17-18, 4:14-15). I believe that Jesus was tempted in every way and yet did not sin (Matt 4:1-11, 2 Cor 5:21, 1 Peter 2:21-23) and thus remained without blemish his entire life (Heb 4:15, 1 John 3:5) I believe that Jesus is God-Man for all time (Col 2:9-10, 1 Tim 2:5) and has a preeminent position over all creation (Col 1:15).
The Work of Christ
I believe that the work of Christ as recorded in scripture began at the creation of the world (John 1:1-3) and that he continues to sustain creation (Col 1:16-17). I believe that the Son of God became incarnate to reveal God (Luke 13:33, John 1:14), redeem the world (2 Cor 5:19, Heb 7:25-27), and leave an example that believers may follow in his steps (1 Cor 11:1, 1 Tim 1:16, 1 Peter 2:21). I believe that the ultimate purpose for Christ’s life was his death on the cross, a substituionary atonement for our sins (Isa 53, Phil 2:8, Rom 3:23-25, 1 Peter 2:21-24) where he himself became the propitiation for sin (Heb 2:17, 1 John 4:10).
I believe that Jesus Christ rose bodily from the grave three days after his death (Matt 28:1-8, 1 Cor 15:1-14) and forty days later ascended into Heaven (Luke 24:50-51, Acts 1:9), where he is seated at the right hand of the Father (Col 3:1, Eph 1:20-21). I believe that his work in Heaven continues as intercessor (Rom 8:34), mediator (1 Tim 2:5) and high priest (Heb 8:23-25). I believe that Christ alone is head of the church (Eph 1:22, Col 1:22) and that he is now our king (1 Tim 1:17, 6:15).I believe that in the future the work of Christ will continue when he returns bodily and visibly to Earth (Acts 1:10-11, Rev 1:7) to judge the living and the dead (Acts 10:42, Rom 2:16, 1 Thess 4:13-18). I believe that every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord (Rom 14:11, Phil 2:11) and that he will continue to rule forever (Rev 1:6).
DOCTRINE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
The Person of the Holy Spirit
I believe the Holy Spirit is co-equal and co-eternal with God the Father and God the Son and is a member of the triune Godhead (Gen 1:1, Deut 6:4, Heb 9:14, Acts 5:3-4). I believe he is a person, as opposed to simply a “presence,” “force,” or “it,” as evidenced by his intellect (1 Cor 2:10-11), emotions (Eph 4:30, Rom 15:30), and will (Acts 13:2, 16:6).
The Attributes of the Holy Spirit
I believe the Holy Spirit is all-knowing (1 Cor 2:10), all-present (Psalm 139:7), all-powerful (Luke 1:35), and eternal (Heb 9:14); He possesses wisdom (Isa 11:2) and truth (John 16:13).
The Work of the Holy Spirit
Before the incarnation of the Son, the Spirit was involved in creation (Gen. 1:2, Ps. 104:30), and empowering the prophets and special envoys of God to speak and act for God (Num. 11:25, Judges 6:34, 1 Sam. 16:13, 2 Kings 2:9-15). The Old Testament prophets foretold an outpouring of the Holy Spirit ushering in judgment and the future kingdom of God (Is. 44:3, Ez.ek. 36:27, Joel 2:28).
I believe the Holy Spirit was active in the life of Jesus through his conception (Matt. 1:18, 20), his baptism (Matt. 3:16-17), and his ministry (Matt. 12:28; Acts 10:38).
I believe that the Holy Spirit initiated the church on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2) and that the work of the Holy Spirit to indwell the believer (1 Cor 6:19), on a temporary basis under the Old Covenant (Gen 41:38, Num 27:18, Judges 6:34) and a permanent basis under the New Covenant (Joel 2:28-29,Acts 5:32, Rom 8:9). He convicts the world of sin (John 16:8) and for the believer he is a guide (John 16:13), a source of power (Acts 10:38), a teacher (John 14:26), and a comforter (John 15:26). He grants him discernment (1 Cor 2:14), causes his regeneration (John 3:5-7), seals him for salvation (Eph 1:13-14), serves as a means of sanctification (2 Thess 2:13), and aids in his spiritual life (Romans 8:26-27). I believe that the presence of the Spirit in the believer’s life is made manifest through the fruits of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23).
The Gifts of the Holy Spirit
I believe the Spirit gifts the individual for the purpose of edifying the church (1 Cor 12) and that those gifts commonly called the charismatic gifts exist only so long as they are needed (1 Cor 13:8-11). I believe that not all gifts are given to all people (1 Cor 12:29) and that the gifts that are given are given in proportion to the receptiveness of the believer (Rom. 6:13; Gal. 5:16; Eph. 5:18).
Receiving the Holy Spirit
I believe the Holy Spirit indwells the believer at the new birth (1 Cor. 6:19) and never departs (Rom. 8:9). I believe that the gift of the Holy Spirit is contingent upon salvation (Acts 2:23) and obedience (Acts 5:32) and that it is right and good for the believer to ask for the gift of the Holy Spirit (Luke 11:11).
DOCTRINE OF MAN
The State of Man and His Fleshly Nature
I believe that man is created in the image of God and was created originally without sin or defect (Gen 1). In disobeying God, Adam and Eve allowed sin and death into the world and the accompanying decay of both the world and man’s nature (Gen 2, 3:1-19, Rom 8). Man’s natural state apart from regeneration is one of hostility towards God (Rom 8:7) and death (Rom 6:23, 8:6). I believe that all have sinned (Rom 3:23, 1 John 1:8) and are subject to death and wrath (Gen 3:8-10, Eph 2:3). I believe that man is powerless to change this and apart from Christ is without hope (1 Cor 2:14).
The Definition of Sin
All that misses the mark of God’s perfection is sin (1 John 5:17); it does not consist merely of action committed but also of action omitted (James 2:17).
The Result of Sin
The results of that original sin -- inherited sin nature and imputed guilt -- are transmitted from Adam to the entire human race in the propagation of the person (Rom. 5:12-19). Because of sin man is not only estranged from God (Rom 5:10) but sin also results in the estrangement of men toward each other (Gen. 3:16; Eph. 2:12-16) and the corruption of the whole created order (Rom. 8:21-22).
I believe that all men and women voluntarily and personally disobey God and thus cooperate with this sin nature (2 Chr. 6:36; Rom 3:23; Jas. 4:17). Though each person stands condemned in Adam (Rom. 5:18) each one will be judged in the final day according to his or her own sinful deeds (Ezek. 18:19-20; Rom. 2:5-6).
DOCTRINE OF SALVATION
The Possibility of Salvation
I believe that because of sin all men face eternal death (Rom 3:24), but God desires that all men be saved (John 3:16, 2 Peter 3:9). To this end he sent his Son as a substitutionary atonement (Isa 53:3-12, 1 Peter 2:24, 3:18) for our sin, satisfying divine justice as the propitiation of the wrath of God (1 John 4:10) and thus redeeming us from the curse of the law (Gal 3:10, 13) and condemnation (Rom 8:1).
The Means of Salvation
I believe that men are saved by grace through faith, totally apart from any works or merit on his part (Eph 2:8-9). God has made his grace available to everyone through Christ's atoning sacrifice (Tit. 2:11) and has invited everyone to respond in faith to his offer (Matt. 28:18-20; Rom. 10:13-17). I believe that man is called on to respond to the work and grace of Christ by belief in his message and sacrifice (Acts 8:36-37, Rom 10:14, Heb 11:6), repentance of (the turning away from) sin (Mark 6:12, Luke 13:3, Acts 3:19, 2 Cor 7:10), confession of Christ (Rom 10:9-10) and baptism into his death and resurrection (Acts 2:38, Rom 6:4, Col 2:12, 1 Peter 3:21). Man is unable to do this on his own but must be drawn by God (John 6:44) and led to repentance (Rom 2:4).
I believe God has elected some to salvation based solely on his divine will (Gen. 12:1-3; Gal. 1:15) and others based on his foreknowledge (Rom 8:29). I believe those who have been set apart by God unto salvation (1 Cor. 1:2) are progressively sanctified by the Holy Spirit (1 Pet. 1:2), in cooperation with their own will (Phil. 2:12-17; Heb. 12:14; 1 Pet. 1:14-16), from sin and unto good works (Rom. 6:4-8; 8:12-14). It is the believer’s task in this life to seek Christ-likeness, a goal which can begun to be met in this life but only completed when one stands complete before Christ (Gal. 5:16-18; Eph. 5:26-27; Phil. 3:12-14).
The Results of Salvation
I believe that when one is saved he becomes a new creation (2 Cor 5:17) and experiences justification, in which his sins are placed on Christ (John 1:29; Rom. 3:24-26), and the righteousness of Christ is imputed to him (Rom. 5:18-19; 2 Cor. 5:21). The sinner is thus declared by God to be righteous (Rom. 4:1-5) and thereby freed from the penalty of sin (Rom. 8:1), united with Christ (Eph. 2:5), and an made heir of the kingdom of God (Rom. 8:16-17) and his salvation is evidenced by the fruits of repentance and godly living (Luke 3:8, Eph 2:10, Phil 2:12) by the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:23). Upon death, the believer passes into the presence of Christ (Luke 23:43, 2 Cor 5:8) where he awaits his final judgment and reward (Matt 25, Rev 20:12).
The Fate of the Unbeliever
I believe that upon death the unbeliever will pass into torment (Luke 16:23) where he will await final judgment and punishment (Matt 25, Rev 20:12) and will henceforth dwell in hell (Rev 20:15).
DOCTRINE OF THE CHURCH
The Universal Church
I believe that the universal church was a mystery looked forward to in the Old Testament (Joel 2:28-32; Eph. 3:4-7) and prophesied by Jesus (Matt. 16:18-19; Acts 1:5). The church age began at Pentecost and consists of those who are called by God to be members of his household (Eph 2:19-22). The church age will last until the return of Christ (Acts 1, Rev 5:9). Until that time the church is to act as the Body of Christ (1 Cor 12:27) and a beacon of God’s truth (Matt 5:13-14). As the Body of Christ, the purpose of the church is to be the representation of Christ hereon earth (John 17:18; 2 Cor. 5:17-20; Eph. 1:22-23), bringing glory to God (Eph. 3:20-21) through worship (John 4:23-24; Rom. 15:5-6; Col. 3:16-17), through the edification and fellowship of the saints (Acts 2:41-42; Heb. 10:24-25), instruction in the scriptures (Eph. 4:11-13; Col. 1:28-29), and the spread of the gospel (Matt. 28:19-20; Acts 1:8).
The Local Church
I believe the church is best thought of as a community of Christ-followers who strive to align their lives according to the example of Christ (Eph. 3:10-12; Col. 1:13). The local church is the manifestation of the universal church, characterized by unity that springs from diversity (Rom. 12:4-8; 1 Cor. 12:12-27; Eph. 1:22-23). It is organized (1 Cor. 14:40), local (Acts 11:22; 13:1), autonomous, and interdependent with other local assemblies (2 Cor. 9:1-5; Phil. 4:15; 3 John 5-8). It is incumbent on the believer to participate in a local community of believers (Heb. 10:24-25), and to exercise their spiritual gift for the welfare of the body (1 Pet. 4:10).
I believe that the characteristics and tasks of the local church are to study the scripture, fellowship with one another, share in communion, and pray (Acts 2:42). I believe that Christ has commanded that the local church shall practice communion often (Matt 26:26-29, Acts 2:42, 20:7), that it shall practice baptism by immersion (Acts 8:38) as the initiatory ordinance of the church, functioning as a confession of faith for a new believer (Acts 2:37-41; Acts 16:14-15), and as a public identification, both with Jesus Christ in his death, burial, and resurrection (Rom. 6:5), and with his church (Acts 2:41; Gal. 3:27-28), and that through discipleship it shall seek to create worshipers of God (Matt 28:18-20, John 4:24).
The Leadership of the Church
I believe that Christ and only Christ is the head of the church (Matt 16:17, Eph 1:22-23). He has ordained offices in the church for the benefit and edification of his followers (1 Cor 12:28, Eph 4:11-12) who serve with their fellow members under a plurality of elders (1 Tim 4:14, 5:17, Titus 1:5, James 5:14, 1 Peter 5:5). The offices are elders (for spiritual oversight of the body) and deacons (for service of the body). They are to be appointed by the body according to their spiritual qualifications (1 Tim. 3:8-13; Tit. 1:5-9).
DOCTRINE OF LAST THINGS
Individual Eschatology
I believe that death entered into the world at the Fall (Gen. 3:22-24) as a consequence of sin (Rom 5:12) and that apart from those who are alive at the return of Christ all shall face death (1 Cor. 15:22; Heb. 9:27). At death there is a temporary separation of the material and immaterial parts of the person (Matt. 10:28, James 2:26). The saved pass immediately into the presence of Christ (Luke 23:42-43; 2 Cor. 5:8; Phil. 1:23-24) while the spirit of the unrighteous enters Hades, a place of confinement and torment (Luke 16:19-31, 2 Pet. 2:9; Rev. 20:13-14). This intermediate state is a conscious existence for all who die as they await their bodily resurrection, the righteous unto imperishable, glorified bodies (Rom. 8:10-11; 1 Cor. 15:24-54; Rev. 20:6), while the unrighteous will be resurrected unto eternal disgrace and corruption (Dan. 12:2; John 5:28-29).
I believe that at the end of the intermediate state all will face judgment, the righteous will be judged and rewarded according to their works (1 Cor. 3:12-15; 4:5; 2 Cor. 5:9-10) and reign with Christ in the millennium (Rev. 20:4-6), while the unrighteous will be cast into the lake of fire for eternal punishment and separation from God (2 Thess. 1:7-9; Rev. 20:11-15).
General Eschatology
I believe that Jesus will return personally (Acts 1:8), visibly (Rev. 1:7), unexpectedly (1 Thess. 5:2), and with great glory and power (Matt. 24:30). When he returns, he will establish His millennial kingdom and reign over the earth with his people for 1,000 years (Rev. 20:4). During this time Satan will be imprisoned (Rev. 20:2), there will be peace and righteousness (Isa. 11:1-16), and every person will acknowledge the Lordship of Jesus Christ (Phil. 2:11). At the end of this period Satan will be released for a short period (Rev. 20:2-3) of time and defeated after attempting to lead a rebellion against God (Rev. 20:7-10).
The Final State
I believe that those who have been declared righteous will be resurrected at the beginning of the millennium (Rev. 20:4) and the unrighteous at the end of the millennium (Rev. 20:5). Believers will be raised with resurrection bodies that are both spiritual (1 Cor. 15:44) and physical (John 20:27), recognizable (Luke 24:16, 31), and is also imperishable, glorious, and powerful (1 Cor. 15:42-43). The final judgment will take place at the end of the millennium and Satan will be thrown into the lake of fire (Rev. 20:10), death will be ended (Rev. 20:14), and unbelievers will be condemned (Rev. 20:15). The righteous will be judged (Rom. 14:10; 2 Cor. 5:10), held accountable (Matt. 18:23-35), and rewarded (Col. 3:24). They have no need to fear this judgment (Rom 8:1). Finally, the renewal will be complete (Rom. 8:19-23) by bringing in the new heavens and the new earth (2 Pet. 3:12-13; Rev. 21:1-22:5) and God’s family will live with him forever in the eternal state (John 5:24; Rom. 5:9; 8:1; Rev. 21-22).
PREAMBLE:
I believe in a personal, organized, doctrinal statement as a means of keeping oneself graounded in the faith. Having studied these issues thoroughly and coming to clear conclusions, my personal doctrinal statement serves as a reference in my mind for my theological and ecclesiastical dealings.
I believe that you do not have to share my doctrinal statment to be worthy of fellowship and salvation. I believe that the essentials one must believe to be called a Christian are these: 1. That Jesus is God, that he came in the flesh, that he died on the cross, that he rose again and that he will return. 2. That grace and forgiveness are provided by the blood of Christ. 3. That the Bible is the Word of God and the final standard for Christian faith and practice.
I believe that in doctrinal matters believers should strive for this goal: "In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, love."
DOCTRINE OF GOD:
The Nature of God
I believe that there is only one true God (Deut 6:4, Isa 44:6), who in essence is three persons (Matt 28:29, 2 Cor 13:14). I believe that he is spirit (John 4:24) and is inherently personal (Exodus 3:13-14) and relational (Gen 1:26-27, John 14:21). The Father is God (John 6:27), the Son is God (John 1:2, Heb 1:8), and the Holy Spirit is God (Acts 5:3-4). I believe that all three are equal (Psalm 90:2, Heb 9:14) and eternal (2 Peter 3:8).
Attributes Unique to God
I believe that God is eternal (2 Peter 3:8, Psalm 90:1-2), self-existent (John 5:26), without limit save those he imposes on himself by his own character (Job 11:7-10, Acts 17:28) with regard to power (Matt 19:26), knowledge (Rom 11:33), and presence (Gen 21:33). He is transcendent above creation (Gen 1:1) and yet present and involved in his creation (Psalm 139:7-10, Acts 17:24). I believe that God is unchanging in his essence, attributes, and characteristics (James 1:17, Exodus 3:14) but free to change without any contradiction of his nature in response to relationships (Isa 59:2) and attitudes (Deut 13:17) I believe that he may rightly be called perfect (Deut 32:4, Matt 5:48); these attributes are essential to God in that they are true of him all the time.
Attributes of God Reflected in Man
Certain attributes of God are communicable in that they can be reflected in man. Among these are his righteousness (Rom 3:25-26), wisdom (Rom 11:33-34), holiness (1 Peter 1:16), faithfulness (2 Tim 2:13), grace (Mic 7:18, Eph 2:4-5), and goodness (Nah 1:7). I believe that in God love is made perfect (1 John 4:8), that he shows love to his creation (Matt 10:29), including every human being (John 3:16), that he shows special love to those that are his (Eph 5:25) and that this special love is conditional (John 15:10, Jude 21). These attributes are essential in that they are true of God all the time. I believe that God, in response to circumstances, shows anger and wrath (Exodus 32:10-11, Psalm 11:4-7, Col 3:6). Anger and wrath are non-essential in that they are true of God only some of the time.
The Work of God
I believe that God has an eternal plan which ultimately can not be frustrated (Psalm 33:9-10, Isa 14:24). This plan was set in place before the foundation of the world (Eph 1:4) and he is actively carrying it out (Eph 1:11). I believe that humans are unable to resist in any way some facets of God’s plan (Isa 14:27, Acts 2:23), but other facets are resistible and may be temporarily frustrated through disobedience (Psalm 106:13-15, Acts 14:16). This is not to say that humans can triumph in any way over God’s will; that which is not decreed efficaciously is allowed to happen within God’s sovereignty (Rom 1:21-25).
I believe that God created the universe and all that is in it, both visible and invisible, originally out of nothing (Gen 1, Psalm 33:6, Col 1:16, Heb 11:3) and subsequently out of the material he created (Gen 1:27). I believe that he is sovereign over his creation (Psalm 135:5-7) and that he cares for it and us by his word (Heb 1:3), sovereign decree (Matt 10:29-31) in the godly and ungodly alike (Rom 8:28, Prov 16:4). I believe that as part of God’s divine providence he responds to the prayers of his people (Exodus 3:7, Luke 11:1-13).
I believe that before the foundation of the world God chose, based solely on his glory and purposes, to bestow the blessings of salvation on certain individuals (Eph 1:3-12) that they may in turn serve his plan (Acts 9:15). I believe that for others God chose for salvation those whom he foreknew would make a free-will decision for the blessings of Christ (John 3:16-18, Rom 8:29-30). I believe that human merit and work play no part in obtaining salvation (Eph 2:8-9, 2 Tim 1:9) and that all who do not accept God’s grace through faith will be condemned as the natural consequence for rejecting eternal life (Acts 13:46, Rev 13:8).
God the FatherI believe that the Father is spirit (John 4:24) and that he possess all of the attributes of the Godhead (Eph 3:14-15, 1 Cor 8:6). I believe that out of love for human beings God the Father sent his Son as a propitiation for sin (John 3:16, 1 John 2:2, Rom 3:25) and as a result of God’s work believers are now reconciled to the Father (Eph 2:16). I believe that one can not find distinct roles for each person of the Trinity, including the Father, but that all three persons are in relation to themselves in their roles (Gen 1:26, Psalm 90:2).
DOCTRINE OF CHRIST:
The Person of Christ
I believe that Jesus Christ is fully God, co-eternal and co-equal with the Father and the Holy Spirit as a member of the triune Godhead (John 1:1, 14; John 10:30). Jesus claimed the divine name (John 8:58) as well as equality with God (Matt 28:18-20, John 8:58) and is specifically called God (John 20:28, Rom 9:5). Moreover, Jesus held the prerogatives of God in receiving worship (Matt 4:10, Acts 10:25-26, 1 Cor 1:2), forgiving sin (Mark 2:7, Luke 5:20-24), passing judgement (John 5:26-29), and participating in creation (John 1:3, Heb 1:2).
I believe that Jesus Christ is the incarnation of God, fully human while still fully divine (Col 2:9, Heb 2:14). In so doing the Son of God laid aside his glory and divine lifestyle (John 17:5, Phil 2:5-8), pouring himself into humanity (John 1), submitting himself to the Father (John 4:34), to the leading of the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:14), and to the Law (Gal 4:4).
I believe that Jesus was born of a virgin (Matt 1:18-25) as a natural human being (1 John 1:1) and grew naturally (Luke 2:40, 51-52), experiencing the gamete of human emotions (John 11:3, John 11:35, Mark 3:5) and physical needs (John 4:5-6, Matt 4:2, Mark 4:38, John 19:32-34). I believe that he is able to fully understand and sympathize with the human condition (Heb 2:17-18, 4:14-15). I believe that Jesus was tempted in every way and yet did not sin (Matt 4:1-11, 2 Cor 5:21, 1 Peter 2:21-23) and thus remained without blemish his entire life (Heb 4:15, 1 John 3:5) I believe that Jesus is God-Man for all time (Col 2:9-10, 1 Tim 2:5) and has a preeminent position over all creation (Col 1:15).
The Work of Christ
I believe that the work of Christ as recorded in scripture began at the creation of the world (John 1:1-3) and that he continues to sustain creation (Col 1:16-17). I believe that the Son of God became incarnate to reveal God (Luke 13:33, John 1:14), redeem the world (2 Cor 5:19, Heb 7:25-27), and leave an example that believers may follow in his steps (1 Cor 11:1, 1 Tim 1:16, 1 Peter 2:21). I believe that the ultimate purpose for Christ’s life was his death on the cross, a substituionary atonement for our sins (Isa 53, Phil 2:8, Rom 3:23-25, 1 Peter 2:21-24) where he himself became the propitiation for sin (Heb 2:17, 1 John 4:10).
I believe that Jesus Christ rose bodily from the grave three days after his death (Matt 28:1-8, 1 Cor 15:1-14) and forty days later ascended into Heaven (Luke 24:50-51, Acts 1:9), where he is seated at the right hand of the Father (Col 3:1, Eph 1:20-21). I believe that his work in Heaven continues as intercessor (Rom 8:34), mediator (1 Tim 2:5) and high priest (Heb 8:23-25). I believe that Christ alone is head of the church (Eph 1:22, Col 1:22) and that he is now our king (1 Tim 1:17, 6:15).I believe that in the future the work of Christ will continue when he returns bodily and visibly to Earth (Acts 1:10-11, Rev 1:7) to judge the living and the dead (Acts 10:42, Rom 2:16, 1 Thess 4:13-18). I believe that every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord (Rom 14:11, Phil 2:11) and that he will continue to rule forever (Rev 1:6).
DOCTRINE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
The Person of the Holy Spirit
I believe the Holy Spirit is co-equal and co-eternal with God the Father and God the Son and is a member of the triune Godhead (Gen 1:1, Deut 6:4, Heb 9:14, Acts 5:3-4). I believe he is a person, as opposed to simply a “presence,” “force,” or “it,” as evidenced by his intellect (1 Cor 2:10-11), emotions (Eph 4:30, Rom 15:30), and will (Acts 13:2, 16:6).
The Attributes of the Holy Spirit
I believe the Holy Spirit is all-knowing (1 Cor 2:10), all-present (Psalm 139:7), all-powerful (Luke 1:35), and eternal (Heb 9:14); He possesses wisdom (Isa 11:2) and truth (John 16:13).
The Work of the Holy Spirit
Before the incarnation of the Son, the Spirit was involved in creation (Gen. 1:2, Ps. 104:30), and empowering the prophets and special envoys of God to speak and act for God (Num. 11:25, Judges 6:34, 1 Sam. 16:13, 2 Kings 2:9-15). The Old Testament prophets foretold an outpouring of the Holy Spirit ushering in judgment and the future kingdom of God (Is. 44:3, Ez.ek. 36:27, Joel 2:28).
I believe the Holy Spirit was active in the life of Jesus through his conception (Matt. 1:18, 20), his baptism (Matt. 3:16-17), and his ministry (Matt. 12:28; Acts 10:38).
I believe that the Holy Spirit initiated the church on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2) and that the work of the Holy Spirit to indwell the believer (1 Cor 6:19), on a temporary basis under the Old Covenant (Gen 41:38, Num 27:18, Judges 6:34) and a permanent basis under the New Covenant (Joel 2:28-29,Acts 5:32, Rom 8:9). He convicts the world of sin (John 16:8) and for the believer he is a guide (John 16:13), a source of power (Acts 10:38), a teacher (John 14:26), and a comforter (John 15:26). He grants him discernment (1 Cor 2:14), causes his regeneration (John 3:5-7), seals him for salvation (Eph 1:13-14), serves as a means of sanctification (2 Thess 2:13), and aids in his spiritual life (Romans 8:26-27). I believe that the presence of the Spirit in the believer’s life is made manifest through the fruits of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23).
The Gifts of the Holy Spirit
I believe the Spirit gifts the individual for the purpose of edifying the church (1 Cor 12) and that those gifts commonly called the charismatic gifts exist only so long as they are needed (1 Cor 13:8-11). I believe that not all gifts are given to all people (1 Cor 12:29) and that the gifts that are given are given in proportion to the receptiveness of the believer (Rom. 6:13; Gal. 5:16; Eph. 5:18).
Receiving the Holy Spirit
I believe the Holy Spirit indwells the believer at the new birth (1 Cor. 6:19) and never departs (Rom. 8:9). I believe that the gift of the Holy Spirit is contingent upon salvation (Acts 2:23) and obedience (Acts 5:32) and that it is right and good for the believer to ask for the gift of the Holy Spirit (Luke 11:11).
DOCTRINE OF MAN
The State of Man and His Fleshly Nature
I believe that man is created in the image of God and was created originally without sin or defect (Gen 1). In disobeying God, Adam and Eve allowed sin and death into the world and the accompanying decay of both the world and man’s nature (Gen 2, 3:1-19, Rom 8). Man’s natural state apart from regeneration is one of hostility towards God (Rom 8:7) and death (Rom 6:23, 8:6). I believe that all have sinned (Rom 3:23, 1 John 1:8) and are subject to death and wrath (Gen 3:8-10, Eph 2:3). I believe that man is powerless to change this and apart from Christ is without hope (1 Cor 2:14).
The Definition of Sin
All that misses the mark of God’s perfection is sin (1 John 5:17); it does not consist merely of action committed but also of action omitted (James 2:17).
The Result of Sin
The results of that original sin -- inherited sin nature and imputed guilt -- are transmitted from Adam to the entire human race in the propagation of the person (Rom. 5:12-19). Because of sin man is not only estranged from God (Rom 5:10) but sin also results in the estrangement of men toward each other (Gen. 3:16; Eph. 2:12-16) and the corruption of the whole created order (Rom. 8:21-22).
I believe that all men and women voluntarily and personally disobey God and thus cooperate with this sin nature (2 Chr. 6:36; Rom 3:23; Jas. 4:17). Though each person stands condemned in Adam (Rom. 5:18) each one will be judged in the final day according to his or her own sinful deeds (Ezek. 18:19-20; Rom. 2:5-6).
DOCTRINE OF SALVATION
The Possibility of Salvation
I believe that because of sin all men face eternal death (Rom 3:24), but God desires that all men be saved (John 3:16, 2 Peter 3:9). To this end he sent his Son as a substitutionary atonement (Isa 53:3-12, 1 Peter 2:24, 3:18) for our sin, satisfying divine justice as the propitiation of the wrath of God (1 John 4:10) and thus redeeming us from the curse of the law (Gal 3:10, 13) and condemnation (Rom 8:1).
The Means of Salvation
I believe that men are saved by grace through faith, totally apart from any works or merit on his part (Eph 2:8-9). God has made his grace available to everyone through Christ's atoning sacrifice (Tit. 2:11) and has invited everyone to respond in faith to his offer (Matt. 28:18-20; Rom. 10:13-17). I believe that man is called on to respond to the work and grace of Christ by belief in his message and sacrifice (Acts 8:36-37, Rom 10:14, Heb 11:6), repentance of (the turning away from) sin (Mark 6:12, Luke 13:3, Acts 3:19, 2 Cor 7:10), confession of Christ (Rom 10:9-10) and baptism into his death and resurrection (Acts 2:38, Rom 6:4, Col 2:12, 1 Peter 3:21). Man is unable to do this on his own but must be drawn by God (John 6:44) and led to repentance (Rom 2:4).
I believe God has elected some to salvation based solely on his divine will (Gen. 12:1-3; Gal. 1:15) and others based on his foreknowledge (Rom 8:29). I believe those who have been set apart by God unto salvation (1 Cor. 1:2) are progressively sanctified by the Holy Spirit (1 Pet. 1:2), in cooperation with their own will (Phil. 2:12-17; Heb. 12:14; 1 Pet. 1:14-16), from sin and unto good works (Rom. 6:4-8; 8:12-14). It is the believer’s task in this life to seek Christ-likeness, a goal which can begun to be met in this life but only completed when one stands complete before Christ (Gal. 5:16-18; Eph. 5:26-27; Phil. 3:12-14).
The Results of Salvation
I believe that when one is saved he becomes a new creation (2 Cor 5:17) and experiences justification, in which his sins are placed on Christ (John 1:29; Rom. 3:24-26), and the righteousness of Christ is imputed to him (Rom. 5:18-19; 2 Cor. 5:21). The sinner is thus declared by God to be righteous (Rom. 4:1-5) and thereby freed from the penalty of sin (Rom. 8:1), united with Christ (Eph. 2:5), and an made heir of the kingdom of God (Rom. 8:16-17) and his salvation is evidenced by the fruits of repentance and godly living (Luke 3:8, Eph 2:10, Phil 2:12) by the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:23). Upon death, the believer passes into the presence of Christ (Luke 23:43, 2 Cor 5:8) where he awaits his final judgment and reward (Matt 25, Rev 20:12).
The Fate of the Unbeliever
I believe that upon death the unbeliever will pass into torment (Luke 16:23) where he will await final judgment and punishment (Matt 25, Rev 20:12) and will henceforth dwell in hell (Rev 20:15).
DOCTRINE OF THE CHURCH
The Universal Church
I believe that the universal church was a mystery looked forward to in the Old Testament (Joel 2:28-32; Eph. 3:4-7) and prophesied by Jesus (Matt. 16:18-19; Acts 1:5). The church age began at Pentecost and consists of those who are called by God to be members of his household (Eph 2:19-22). The church age will last until the return of Christ (Acts 1, Rev 5:9). Until that time the church is to act as the Body of Christ (1 Cor 12:27) and a beacon of God’s truth (Matt 5:13-14). As the Body of Christ, the purpose of the church is to be the representation of Christ hereon earth (John 17:18; 2 Cor. 5:17-20; Eph. 1:22-23), bringing glory to God (Eph. 3:20-21) through worship (John 4:23-24; Rom. 15:5-6; Col. 3:16-17), through the edification and fellowship of the saints (Acts 2:41-42; Heb. 10:24-25), instruction in the scriptures (Eph. 4:11-13; Col. 1:28-29), and the spread of the gospel (Matt. 28:19-20; Acts 1:8).
The Local Church
I believe the church is best thought of as a community of Christ-followers who strive to align their lives according to the example of Christ (Eph. 3:10-12; Col. 1:13). The local church is the manifestation of the universal church, characterized by unity that springs from diversity (Rom. 12:4-8; 1 Cor. 12:12-27; Eph. 1:22-23). It is organized (1 Cor. 14:40), local (Acts 11:22; 13:1), autonomous, and interdependent with other local assemblies (2 Cor. 9:1-5; Phil. 4:15; 3 John 5-8). It is incumbent on the believer to participate in a local community of believers (Heb. 10:24-25), and to exercise their spiritual gift for the welfare of the body (1 Pet. 4:10).
I believe that the characteristics and tasks of the local church are to study the scripture, fellowship with one another, share in communion, and pray (Acts 2:42). I believe that Christ has commanded that the local church shall practice communion often (Matt 26:26-29, Acts 2:42, 20:7), that it shall practice baptism by immersion (Acts 8:38) as the initiatory ordinance of the church, functioning as a confession of faith for a new believer (Acts 2:37-41; Acts 16:14-15), and as a public identification, both with Jesus Christ in his death, burial, and resurrection (Rom. 6:5), and with his church (Acts 2:41; Gal. 3:27-28), and that through discipleship it shall seek to create worshipers of God (Matt 28:18-20, John 4:24).
The Leadership of the Church
I believe that Christ and only Christ is the head of the church (Matt 16:17, Eph 1:22-23). He has ordained offices in the church for the benefit and edification of his followers (1 Cor 12:28, Eph 4:11-12) who serve with their fellow members under a plurality of elders (1 Tim 4:14, 5:17, Titus 1:5, James 5:14, 1 Peter 5:5). The offices are elders (for spiritual oversight of the body) and deacons (for service of the body). They are to be appointed by the body according to their spiritual qualifications (1 Tim. 3:8-13; Tit. 1:5-9).
DOCTRINE OF LAST THINGS
Individual Eschatology
I believe that death entered into the world at the Fall (Gen. 3:22-24) as a consequence of sin (Rom 5:12) and that apart from those who are alive at the return of Christ all shall face death (1 Cor. 15:22; Heb. 9:27). At death there is a temporary separation of the material and immaterial parts of the person (Matt. 10:28, James 2:26). The saved pass immediately into the presence of Christ (Luke 23:42-43; 2 Cor. 5:8; Phil. 1:23-24) while the spirit of the unrighteous enters Hades, a place of confinement and torment (Luke 16:19-31, 2 Pet. 2:9; Rev. 20:13-14). This intermediate state is a conscious existence for all who die as they await their bodily resurrection, the righteous unto imperishable, glorified bodies (Rom. 8:10-11; 1 Cor. 15:24-54; Rev. 20:6), while the unrighteous will be resurrected unto eternal disgrace and corruption (Dan. 12:2; John 5:28-29).
I believe that at the end of the intermediate state all will face judgment, the righteous will be judged and rewarded according to their works (1 Cor. 3:12-15; 4:5; 2 Cor. 5:9-10) and reign with Christ in the millennium (Rev. 20:4-6), while the unrighteous will be cast into the lake of fire for eternal punishment and separation from God (2 Thess. 1:7-9; Rev. 20:11-15).
General Eschatology
I believe that Jesus will return personally (Acts 1:8), visibly (Rev. 1:7), unexpectedly (1 Thess. 5:2), and with great glory and power (Matt. 24:30). When he returns, he will establish His millennial kingdom and reign over the earth with his people for 1,000 years (Rev. 20:4). During this time Satan will be imprisoned (Rev. 20:2), there will be peace and righteousness (Isa. 11:1-16), and every person will acknowledge the Lordship of Jesus Christ (Phil. 2:11). At the end of this period Satan will be released for a short period (Rev. 20:2-3) of time and defeated after attempting to lead a rebellion against God (Rev. 20:7-10).
The Final State
I believe that those who have been declared righteous will be resurrected at the beginning of the millennium (Rev. 20:4) and the unrighteous at the end of the millennium (Rev. 20:5). Believers will be raised with resurrection bodies that are both spiritual (1 Cor. 15:44) and physical (John 20:27), recognizable (Luke 24:16, 31), and is also imperishable, glorious, and powerful (1 Cor. 15:42-43). The final judgment will take place at the end of the millennium and Satan will be thrown into the lake of fire (Rev. 20:10), death will be ended (Rev. 20:14), and unbelievers will be condemned (Rev. 20:15). The righteous will be judged (Rom. 14:10; 2 Cor. 5:10), held accountable (Matt. 18:23-35), and rewarded (Col. 3:24). They have no need to fear this judgment (Rom 8:1). Finally, the renewal will be complete (Rom. 8:19-23) by bringing in the new heavens and the new earth (2 Pet. 3:12-13; Rev. 21:1-22:5) and God’s family will live with him forever in the eternal state (John 5:24; Rom. 5:9; 8:1; Rev. 21-22).