Following Christ Together

As Presbyterians, We Believe:

In the Priority of Grace

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing, it is the gift of God – not the result of works, so that no one may boast.” Ephesians 2:8

We don’t need to earn the right to go to heaven, to justify ourselves before God. Hearing the Good News of eternal life, we are reconciled to our heavenly Father and forgiven of our sins because we accept the free gift of having a relationship with Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Receiving such grace makes us gracious to others.

In the Bible as our Sole Authority

“The whole Bible was given to us by inspiration from God and is useful to teach us what is true and make us realize what is wrong in our lives; it straightens us out and helps us to do what is right.” 2 Timothy 3:15

Since God’s Word is the only completely reliable and truthful authority, we accept the Bible as our manual for living. Our first question when faced with a decision is “What does the Bible say?” We practice daily Bible reading, Bible study, and Bible memorization. The Bible is the basis for all we believe. We look to the Bible, and not to any church leader or governing body, for ultimate authority.

In Thinking Our Faith

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.” Matthew 22:37

As we seek to apply Scripture faithfully in our own time and place, we will study it diligently, seeking to interpret individual verses in context with the whole of biblical teaching. Also, we shall consider the insights of the physical and social sciences when grappling to understand contemporary issues, remembering that while science may tell us how things happen, the Bible tells us why.

In the Stewardship of All of Life

“Therefore, by the mercies of God, present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your truest form of worship.” Romans 12:1

Our Creator has entrusted each of us with good gifts for us to manage according to His purposes. Therefore, we strive to be faithful in our relationships, and with the time and money we’ve been blessed to receive. We also seek to be good caretakers of the earth.

In Being a Witness

“You are the salt of the earth.You are the light of the world.In the same way, let your light shine before people, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:13a, 14a, 16

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you; and you will be my witnesses.” Acts 1:8

It is the responsibility of every Christian to share the Good News with those with whom God brings us into contact. We practice personal sharing about Christ and invite friends to church. We also bear witness by supporting ministries and missions which address the difficult situations of people in need.

In Concern for Peace and Justice

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.” Matthew 5:9

“Let justice roll down like a river, and the righteousness like a never-failing stream.” Amos 5:24

We recognize God’s concern that all people be treated with fairness and dignity, having a livelihood that provides them with adequate food, housing, and health care, and so we work for a more just social order, and respond generously to those in need. Recognizing a tendency to exclude them in the past, we shall encourage women to accept the invitation to serve as leaders. Trying to follow Jesus, we shall seek to build relationships with those of differing races, and make peace between neighbors.

Fully aware of differing philosophies as to how we can make our world more just and righteous, we will listen to each other’s views as we study the scriptures, but not expect that the church will endorse any particular political candidate or ideology.

In Trusting in God’s Sovereign Care

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28

We do not believe that our faith will protect us from the suffering and grief common to life on earth, but trust that God controls our future; that the Holy Spirit will sustain us through hardship; and that our Heavenly Father will weave His good and glorious purpose from our struggles.