Calvary Chapel Statement of Faith

The Calvary Chapel Church has been formed as a fellowship of believers in the Lordship of Jesus Christ.
Our supreme desire is to know Christ and be conformed into His image by the power of the Holy Spirit.

We are not a denominational church, nor are we opposed to denominations as such, only their over-emphasis of doctrinal differences that have led to the division of the body of Christ.

We Believe that the only true basis of Christian fellowship is His (Agape) love, which is greater than any differences we possess and without which we have no right to claim ourselves Christians.

We Believe that the worship of God should be Spiritual.
Therefore: We remain flexible and yielded to the Holy Spirit to direct our worship.

We Believe that the worship of God should be Inspirational.
Therefore: We give a great place to music in our worship.

We Believe that the worship of God should be Intelligent.
Therefore: Our services are designed with great emphasis upon teaching of the Word of God that He might instruct us how He should be worshipped.

We Believe that the worship of God is Fruitful.
Therefore: We look for His Love in our lives as the supreme manifestation that we have truly been worshipping Him.

We Believe the Bible to be the inspired Word of God, without error and the only authority for faith and life.

We Believe in one God, existing in three persons: the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

We Believe in the deity of the Lord Jesus Christ, His virgin birth, His sinless life, His miracles, His glory.

We Believe that mankind is sinful, at war with God, deserving penalty.

We Believe that Jesus Christ paid the penalty for the sin of mankind by dying on the cross, and that He was physically raised from the dead.

We Believe that by grace we are saved through faith in Christ's death on the Cross, and this salvation is the gift of God.

We Believe that the Holy Spirit lives in the believer of Christ, also the baptism of the Holy Spirit is available in the believer.

We Believe in the soon return of Jesus Christ, the gathering of all believers, and the establishment of His kingdom on earth.

We Believe in the resurrection of the living and the dead to eternity, the judgment seat of Christ, with believers heaven bound and non-believers lost to eternal penalty in hell.


A couple of the statements worry me.
A. We are "at war" with God sounds so combative as a description for a relationship with God. How do you view this staemtent?

B. Eternal penalty in hell also sounds harsh to me, but maybe I'm wrong. Does anyone have thoughts about this??

nak

our cc has the same statement on the back of the bulletin *except* it stops after the God is fruitful part. the "at war" and "penalty in hell" parts of that statement concern me as well. as i am learning it, hell is not supposed to be some fiery pit but the definition of eternal life cut off from God.

We Believe the Bible to be the inspired Word of God, without error and the only authority for faith and life.


What about this statement? I was thinking that the "inspired" word of God would mean that it was from God but not necessarily exact, yk? but the next portion states "without error". Am I nitpicking too much? I am just not sure that the bible is without error....hmmm. Color me chronically confused!

Well, Scripture says that we are enemies of God before we are saved, but once we are His, we are His children. I do not see Scriptural support for the idea that we're at "war" with God. We are at war wit the flesh - THAT is Biblical - and at war with the enemy (Satan) but not with God.

As for hell, that is Biblical. We see teachings regarding it at Luke 16 (the rich man and Lazarus), and Revelation 14:9-11 has some pretty clear words about what it is like. The verses that speak of hell as being a "fire" are in the Luke 16 and Rev. 14 passages as well as Revelation 19:3, Revelation 20:10, matthew 25:41, Mark 9:43, Mark 9:48.

God is a just God. He has given man the choice between a life with Him or a life without Him. Hell is the end result of the choice to live without Him. While it's not a happy thing to think about, it's Biblical and the truth. Romans 6:23 says "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." So while sin leads to death (and hell is called the second death), God offers us salvation and freedom from death.

HTH!

I don't know why, but there has to be a reason that I am always thinking about religion/spirituality. It seems so important to me, but I still haven't found that place where I feel I belong 100%. Maybe I'm being too picky?

We Believe the Bible to be the inspired Word of God, without error and the only authority for faith and life.


What about this statement? I was thinking that the "inspired" word of God would mean that it was from God but not necessarily exact, yk? but the next portion states "without error". Am I nitpicking too much? I am just not sure that the bible is without error....hmmm. Color me chronically confused!

What most Christian churches believe is that the Bible is the inspired Word of God - meaning that God wrote the Bible through the men who penned the words. The verse that this comes from is 2 Timothy 3:16 that says "All Scripture is inspired by God..." and "inspired" means "God breathed". So God had a direct hand in writing the words that we have as our Scripture and we can be assured that what we have has been proven to be of God.

It is without error in the original "autographs" or the original copies and even through all of the past years of translations and hand-copying manuscripts, there has still been nothing that has been compromised in the Word we have today. While there are some small issues with words and phrasing here and there, there are no doctrines or truths that have changed since the earliest works we have. I'm actually reading a book on the Bible and the history of the translations and it's very interesting reading. It's neat to know just how much God has preserved His Word for us!

Does that make sense?

I don't know why, but there has to be a reason that I am always thinking about religion/spirituality. It seems so important to me, but I still haven't found that place where I feel I belong 100%. Maybe I'm being too picky?

It's OK to question stuff and I know that there are answers to many of the questions people have. I also know that some of it is not for us to understand in this world and we'll have answers in the next. :)

Ann got here before me, so I'll just add a little.

First--ask questions! It's OK! Set up a meeting with the pastor or someone in the church, and ask what those statements mean. Get their view (I've never seen "at war with God" in a statement of belief, and I'd want to know what they meant by it) You don't have to go in thinking you have to debate, so you have to have a lot of answers. Just go in ready to listen, ask clarifying questions. Make sure you repeat what they say so that you have a good understanding of what they mean, even if you're still not sure you agree.

as i am learning it, hell is not supposed to be some fiery pit but the definition of eternal life cut off from God.

I agree with Ann that there are some parts in the Bible that may point to it being literal fire--but I agree with Meeshi. What is important for ME to understand is that it's an eternity without God--without his presence.



What about this statement? I was thinking that the "inspired" word of God would mean that it was from God but not necessarily exact, yk? but the next portion states "without error". Am I nitpicking too much? I am just not sure that the bible is without error....hmmm. Color me chronically confused!

When we think of "inspired", we tend to think of a starting point, right? Like if I write a song that is inspired by a different musician, it means that the song is mine, but I got some ideas from a different musician. That's what makes it a little confusing to understand I think.

Ann got here before me, so I'll just add a little.

First--ask questions! It's OK! Set up a meeting with the pastor or someone in the church, and ask what those statements mean. Get their view (I've never seen "at war with God" in a statement of belief, and I'd want to know what they meant by it) You don't have to go in thinking you have to debate, so you have to have a lot of answers. Just go in ready to listen, ask clarifying questions. Make sure you repeat what they say so that you have a good understanding of what they mean, even if you're still not sure you agree.



I agree with Ann that there are some parts in the Bible that may point to it being literal fire--but I agree with Meeshi. What is important for ME to understand is that it's an eternity without God--without his presence.



When we think of "inspired", we tend to think of a starting point, right? Like if I write a song that is inspired by a different musician, it means that the song is mine, but I got some ideas from a different musician. That's what makes it a little confusing to understand I think.

I'm so thankful for the answers I am receiving- it really helps me to clarify things!


So, do some Christians believe that the Bible is the infalliable word of God and others think of it more loosely? Or am I missing the mark altogether? Can someone be a Christian and believe in the Bible as a translated word of God, but not an exact translation, and what type of Christian would that be?
How's that for a dumb question!? (baby steps with me!)

So, do some Christians believe that the Bible is the infalliable word of God and others think of it more loosely? Or am I missing the mark altogether?

yes.

depends.

There is a spectrum among Christians on accuracy of the bible that goes from 100% exact and occurred exactly as written (including literal 6 days of creation) to allegorical and parable on the other end.

Can someone be a Christian and believe in the Bible as a translated word of God, but not an exact translation, and what type of Christian would that be?
How's that for a dumb question!? (baby steps with me!

depends on who is doing the defining. There are many different types of Christians and for as many types of Christians there are, there are as many definitions of whether one is or is not a Christian.

I am CERTAIN that there are Christians (even on this board) who believe that one cannot be a Christian unless they believe each and every word in the bible to be literal truth. There are Christians who believe otherwise.

I don't think that it matters whether other Christians believe that you have the right to that title based upon your beliefs nearly as much as it matters whether YOU believe that you are Christian. You aren't living your life for their acceptance or approval.

I'm so thankful for the answers I am receiving- it really helps me to clarify things!


So, do some Christians believe that the Bible is the infalliable word of God and others think of it more loosely? Or am I missing the mark altogether? Can someone be a Christian and believe in the Bible as a translated word of God, but not an exact translation, and what type of Christian would that be?
How's that for a dumb question!? (baby steps with me!)

Well, I'll give you my thoughts. :)

The Bible is not an exact translation of the original "autographs" but are pretty darned close. We have to remember that even just translating one language to another cannot result in an exact translation because words and phrases mean different things to different languages. However, we can have full assurance that what is in the Scriptures we have is God's Word and it is true. The few things that have changed from the originals in no way diminish the fact that we can have faith in what it says.

Yes, there are believers who don't believe that the Bible is true and that there are a lot of "stories" instead of it all being true but to me, when you question parts of what it says, how can you believe any of it? I mean, if we say that the world-wide flood didn't happen, then how can we know for sure that Jesus really died and rose again? If Jesus didn't really rise from the dead, then the entire basis of our faith is wrong - and there's no reason to be a Christian. So while I don't always understand everything in the Scriptures, I do believe that what is told as fact is fact. It's a step of faith I need to take in order to be able to understand the rest of my faith.

Make sense?

I do not believe that anyone is eternally lost to hell. I don't even know for sure that anyone is in hell. To say that some are eternally lost (especially just because they are non-believers) does not sound confident in God's endless love. His love is so great that it will continue to reach to those who have chosen a life without Him. He's not going to stop calling us home.

I don't believe that the Bible is literally true for every verse. I do believe that it is inspired and that the words and stories are there for a reason. I also believe that it's OK if different people interpret the Bible differently.

I don't know if it's any help to hear what others believe, but I don't know how else reply!

See, I want to either move to Oakland and go to Heather's church or move to Florida and go to Nancy's.

See, I want to either move to Oakland and go to Heather's church or move to Florida and go to Nancy's.

Come on down! We'd love to have you!

Come on down! We'd love to have you!

that would be great.

yes.

depends.

There is a spectrum among Christians on accuracy of the bible that goes from 100% exact and occurred exactly as written (including literal 6 days of creation) to allegorical and parable on the other end.



depends on who is doing the defining. There are many different types of Christians and for as many types of Christians there are, there are as many definitions of whether one is or is not a Christian.

I am CERTAIN that there are Christians (even on this board) who believe that one cannot be a Christian unless they believe each and every word in the bible to be literal truth. There are Christians who believe otherwise.

I don't think that it matters whether other Christians believe that you have the right to that title based upon your beliefs nearly as much as it matters whether YOU believe that you are Christian. You aren't living your life for their acceptance or approval.

Very good points! Thank you! (As different as we are, I have a feeling we probably are close in religious beliefs.)

Well, I'll give you my thoughts. :)

The Bible is not an exact translation of the original "autographs" but are pretty darned close. We have to remember that even just translating one language to another cannot result in an exact translation because words and phrases mean different things to different languages. However, we can have full assurance that what is in the Scriptures we have is God's Word and it is true. The few things that have changed from the originals in no way diminish the fact that we can have faith in what it says.

Yes, there are believers who don't believe that the Bible is true and that there are a lot of "stories" instead of it all being true but to me, when you question parts of what it says, how can you believe any of it? I mean, if we say that the world-wide flood didn't happen, then how can we know for sure that Jesus really died and rose again? If Jesus didn't really rise from the dead, then the entire basis of our faith is wrong - and there's no reason to be a Christian. So while I don't always understand everything in the Scriptures, I do believe that what is told as fact is fact. It's a step of faith I need to take in order to be able to understand the rest of my faith.

Make sense?

I completely understand what you are saying- I really value your input! Thanks!

I do not believe that anyone is eternally lost to hell. I don't even know for sure that anyone is in hell. To say that some are eternally lost (especially just because they are non-believers) does not sound confident in God's endless love. His love is so great that it will continue to reach to those who have chosen a life without Him. He's not going to stop calling us home.

I don't believe that the Bible is literally true for every verse. I do believe that it is inspired and that the words and stories are there for a reason. I also believe that it's OK if different people interpret the Bible differently.

I don't know if it's any help to hear what others believe, but I don't know how else reply!

So would you define yourself as more of a progressive Christian? Is that what your church believes? I'm just sorting it all out.

So would you define yourself as more of a progressive Christian? Is that what your church believes? I'm just sorting it all out.

I don't know what progressive Christian means, so I'm afraid to claim the title. I'm not sure that my church is considered progressive. We are Episcopalian. I'd say that, yes, my church believes what I shared above.

I don't know what progressive Christian means, so I'm afraid to claim the title. I'm not sure that my church is considered progressive. We are Episcopalian. I'd say that, yes, my church believes what I shared above.

I view "Progressive Christianity" as a more liberal viewpoint of religion. My definition may be incorrect as well, though! I do appreciate your input!

Progressive Christianity
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Progressive Christianity is the name given to a movement within contemporary Protestant Christianity characterized by willingness to question tradition, acceptance of human diversity (including the affirmation of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people), and strong emphasis on social justice. Progressive Christians have a deep belief in the centrality of the instruction to "love one another" within the teaching of Jesus Christ. This leads to a focus on compassion, promoting justice and mercy, and working towards solving the societal problems of poverty, discrimination, and environmental issues.

This movement is by no means the only significant movement of progressive thought among Christians (see the 'See also' links below), but it is currently a focus of such issues in many parts of the world.

In recent years the term Progressive Christianity has been used interchangeably with the term Liberal Christianity. Some argue that Progressive Christians are theologically distinct from liberal Christian thought, in that Progressive Christianity draws on the insights of multiple theological streams including: 19th century evangelicalism, 19th and early 20th century Christian liberalism, 20th century neo-orthodoxy, and late 20th and 21st century liberation theology. [1]. Perhaps the most comprehensive statement of a progressive Christian point of view is "Progressive Christian Beliefs: An Introduction..." found at Progressive Christian Beliefs (http://progressivetheology.wordpress.com), by Delwin Brown, apparently a reformed liberal theologian. While it is often on the liberal side of the spectrum, it should be noted that progressive Christianity is not synonymous with political liberalism.

The characteristics of Progressive Christianity, and its distinction from Liberal Christianity, have been articulated in an article [2] by Hal Taussig. These can be summarized as:

A spiritual vitality and expressiveness, including participatory, arts-infused, and lively worship as well as a variety of spiritual rituals and practices such as meditation
Intellectual integrity including a willingness to question
An affirmation of human diversity
An affirmation of the Christian faith with a simultaneous sincere respect for other faiths
Strong ecological and social justice commitments
Contents [hide]
1 Origins
2 The contemporary movement
2.1 Seventh-day Adventism
3 Notable Progressive Christians
4 See also
5 References
6 External links



[edit] Origins
A priority of justice and care for the down-trodden are a recurrent theme in the Hebrew prophetic tradition inherited by Christianity. This has been reflected in many later Christian traditions of service and [ministry], and more recently in the United States of America through Christian involvement in political trends such as the Progressive Movement and the Social Gospel.

Throughout the 20th century, a strand of progressive or liberal Christian thought outlined the values of a 'good society'. It stresses fairness, justice, responsibility, and compassion, and condemns the forms of governance that wage unjust war, rely on corruption for continued power, deprive the poor of facilities, or exclude particular racial or sexual groups from fair participation in national liberties. It was influential in the US mainline churches, and reflected global trends in student activism. It contributed to the ecumenical movement, as represented internationally by the World Student Christian Federation and the World Council of Churches internationally, and at the national level through groups such as the National Council of Churches in the USA and Australian Student Christian Movement.


[edit] The contemporary movement
The ascendancy of Evangelicalism in the US, particularly in its more socially reactionary forms, challenged many people in mainline churches. Recently, a focus for those who wish to challenge this ascendancy has been provided by Jim Wallis of Sojourners, who described himself as a progressive evangelical Christian. This has enabled many Christians who are uncomfortable with conservative evangelicalism to identify themselves explicitly as "Progressive Christians." At the onset of this new movement to organize Progressive Christians, the single largest force holding together was a webring, The Progressive Christian Bloggers Network, and supporters frequently find and contact each other through dozens of online chat-rooms.

Notable initiatives within the movement for progressive Christianity include the Center for Progressive Christianity (TCPC) in Cambridge, MA, the campaigning organization CrossLeft, the technology working group Social Redemption.

CrossLeft joined with Every Voice Network and Claiming the Blessing in October 2005 to stage a major conference, Path to Action, at the National Cathedral in Washington, DC. Among the speakers were E. J. Dionne, Richard Parker, Jim Wallis, Senator Danforth, and David Hollinger.

Examples of statements of contemporary Progressive Christian beliefs include:

the Eight Points produced by TCPC: a statement of agreement about Christianity as a basis for tolerance and human rights;
the Phoenix Affirmations produced by Crosswalk (Phoenix, AZ) - include twelve points defining Christian love of God, Christian love of neighbor, and Christian love of self.
the article, "Grassroots Progressive Christianity: A Quiet Revolution" by Hal Taussig published in 'The Fourth R,' May-June 2006.

[edit] Seventh-day Adventism
Main article: Progressive Adventism
Within the Seventh-day Adventist Church, the liberal wing describe themselves as "progressive Adventists". They disagree with some of the traditional teachings of the church. While most are still of evangelical persuasion, a minority are liberal Christians.


[edit] Notable Progressive Christians
Walter Brueggemann
Walt Brown
Delwin Brown [1]
Tony Campolo [2]
Jim Wallis [3]
Becky Garrison [4]
Jim Burklo [5]
Jarrod Cochran [6]
Shane Claiborne [7]
Jay Bakker [8]
Brian McLaren [9]
Brian P. Moore - US Presidential candidate for the 2008 Presidential elections
Bart Campolo [10]
Scott Paeth [11]
Br. Karekin M. Yarian, BSG [12]
Osagyefo Uhuru Sekou [13]
C.T. Vivian [14]
Peter Laarman [15]
Timothy F. Simpson [16]
Fred Pulmer [17]
Karen Armstrong [18]
Marcus Borg [19]
Anne Lamott [20]
John Shelby Spong
Frank P. Zeidler
Ian W. Lawton [21]
Daniel Wise editor of Zion's Herald, which later became The Progressive Christian magazine

[edit] See also
Christian left
Civil Rights Movement for racial justice in the American South
CrossLeft, organizing the Christian Left
Evangelical left
Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal
Liberal Christianity
Liberation Theology
Postmodern Christianity
Red Letter Christians
Social justice
Social Redemption, providing technology resources for the left
Sojourners
Progressive National Baptist Convention

[edit] References
^ Witness Articles - Progressive Christian Witness
^ http://www.sdc.unitingchurch.org.au/WestarProgressiveArticle.pdf

[edit] External links
The Center for Progressive Christianity
The 8 points of belief
The Canadian Centre for Progressive Christianity
Christians for Justice and Peace
The Progressive Christian Movement
The Christian Alliance for Progress
CrossLeft organizing the Christian Left
CrossWalk America
The Phoenix Affirmations - twelve points defining Christian love of God, Christian love of neighbor, and Christian love of self.
Britain - The Progressive Christianity Network for Great Britain
National Catholic Reporter - A progressive Catholic newsweekly
Social Redemption
Transcript of Spirit Wars: American Religion in Progressive Politics, Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life December 6, 2005
Christian Peacemaker Teams
Every Church a Peace Church
Tribal Church
The Progressive Christian magazine
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yes.

depends.

There is a spectrum among Christians on accuracy of the bible that goes from 100% exact and occurred exactly as written (including literal 6 days of creation) to allegorical and parable on the other end.



depends on who is doing the defining. There are many different types of Christians and for as many types of Christians there are, there are as many definitions of whether one is or is not a Christian.

I am CERTAIN that there are Christians (even on this board) who believe that one cannot be a Christian unless they believe each and every word in the bible to be literal truth. There are Christians who believe otherwise.

I don't think that it matters whether other Christians believe that you have the right to that title based upon your beliefs nearly as much as it matters whether YOU believe that you are Christian. You aren't living your life for their acceptance or approval.
I just wanted to speak to a few things here since I've come from a Calvary Offshoot...Horizon Christian Fellowship...you can google it, but I'm sure their SOF looks the same.

First off, yes, they (I) do believe that the bible is the inspired Word of God as declared in 2 Timothy. I can believe it is the inspired Word of God and yet at the same time, be unlcear as to just exactly what certain passages mean, despite original language/context/cross referencing. I'm positive God realizes I won't "get" it all. :)

I've heard from many a Calvary Pastor, there are things that we debate and discuss but should not divide over. There are ongoing, common discussions as to certain biblical issues like, predestination, the literal 6 days of creation, post or pre trib, etc. I know people who attend CC's who have varying views on each of those things. I *think* I believe in predestination, I do believe in a literal 6 days of creation, and I'm a pre-trib person. But really? I don't think those are issues of Salvation and therefore, left open to discussion.

As to the "at war with God" statement, I'm not sure exactly what they were thinking but the first scripture that comes to my mind is from Matthew... "He that is not with me is against me"...not sure the exact address/scripture and verse. :p. The idea being that if we are not for God, we are set against Him...or "at war". Again, that's my take on it but it was never something that stood out or stumped me so I haven't thought too deeply about it. Regarding that verse, I don't think the implication is that Christians are at war with non-Christians but rather our individual spirit is set against the spirit of God and the things of God when we are still non-believers. It's not a religious call to arms. :)

oh and I do believe in Hell. Hell being eternal separation from God. Firey pit or dark cold place? I don't want to find out. :lol: I believe there are a couple of different words, at least in Hebrew(Sheol: a grave or pit and Gehenna:implying eternal darnation) and they are not used interchangeably but I haven't covered that in a while so I couldn't offer specifics. But yes. There is as much scripture in the new testament regarding how to find yourself in hell as there is how one is welcomed into Heaven.

edited to darnation because of word filter, LOL.

I just wanted to speak to a few things here since I've come from a Calvary Offshoot...Horizon Christian Fellowship...you can google it, but I'm sure their SOF looks the same.

First off, yes, they (I) do believe that the bible is the inspired Word of God as declared in 2 Timothy. I can believe it is the inspired Word of God and yet at the same time, be unlcear as to just exactly what certain passages mean, despite original language/context/cross referencing. I'm positive God realizes I won't "get" it all. :)

I've heard from many a Calvary Pastor, there are things that we debate and discuss but should not divide over.

This rings true for me. It is easy for me to defend against differences as a means of avoiding fear and vulnerability, but, really, I guess that for me it comes down to faith and trusting that God is far wiser than am I.

Well, this part sounds like me/us:

Progressive Christianity is the name given to a movement within contemporary Protestant Christianity characterized by willingness to question tradition, acceptance of human diversity (including the affirmation of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people), and strong emphasis on social justice. Progressive Christians have a deep belief in the centrality of the instruction to "love one another" within the teaching of Jesus Christ. This leads to a focus on compassion, promoting justice and mercy, and working towards solving the societal problems of poverty, discrimination, and environmental issues.

But, we are a very traditional tradition! So, while we question it, we cling to it and love it as well.

We do not do the high energy modern music type worship. You can find that in the Episcopal church, just not at our particular parish.

I love the praise songs we sing at our church. I'm still a newb, but every week when I hear my girlies sing along, it brings tears to my eyes.

I love the praise songs we sing at our church. I'm still a newb, but every week when I hear my girlies sing along, it brings tears to my eyes.

I love that as well! I bet we all have different songs that are meaningful to us. At our church, they are fairly traditional. We don't have overhead projectors with the words or anything. We use a hymnal that was compiled in 1982, so that's the "youngest" any song in there would be. Of course, many of them are hundreds of years old. It's very cool to know that you are singing the songs that have been sung for centuries. I love that connection!

I love the praise songs we sing at our church. I'm still a newb, but every week when I hear my girlies sing along, it brings tears to my eyes.

Don't you love that?? My husband is the worship pastor at our church so we have a LOT of praise songs going on here . My kids walk around singing the songs and it's just an amazing thing to see and hear. :)

I love that as well! I bet we all have different songs that are meaningful to us. At our church, they are fairly traditional. We don't have overhead projectors with the words or anything. We use a hymnal that was compiled in 1982, so that's the "youngest" any song in there would be. Of course, many of them are hundreds of years old. It's very cool to know that you are singing the songs that have been sung for centuries. I love that connection!

:agreed:

When I go to church, I love knowing that people have been worshipping in the same way, and singing the same songs for centuries. Now I know that I attend a UMC, but our particular church is *very* traditional. I am moved to tears almost every Sunday. One of my very favorite songs is this:

Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee

Ironically, I can't get into "praise" music at all. I just don't like singing the same things over and over. Beautiful songs, that I will sing along to on cd, but not my thing in church.

I love the praise songs we sing at our church. I'm still a newb, but every week when I hear my girlies sing along, it brings tears to my eyes.

That is sweet!

:agreed:

When I go to church, I love knowing that people have been worshipping in the same way, and singing the same songs for centuries. Now I know that I attend a UMC, but our particular church is *very* traditional. I am moved to tears almost every Sunday. One of my very favorite songs is this:

Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee

Ironically, I can't get into "praise" music at all. I just don't like singing the same things over and over. Beautiful songs, that I will sing along to on cd, but not my thing in church.

LOL - DH just wrote a chorus to go with Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee. :D It went over really well.

We don't have overhead projectors with the words or anything.


Hey, hey!! That's my job you're speaking about! LOL!! And today, I apparently screwed up so badly that I guaranteed myself about 5 hours of extra work next week! YIKES!! Hopefully it will all run OK this week! I put a lot of time into some new graphics! SIGH

First off, yes, they (I) do believe that the bible is the inspired Word of God as declared in 2 Timothy. I can believe it is the inspired Word of God and yet at the same time, be unlcear as to just exactly what certain passages mean, despite original language/context/cross referencing. I'm positive God realizes I won't "get" it all. :)

I've heard from many a Calvary Pastor, there are things that we debate and discuss but should not divide over. There are ongoing, common discussions as to certain biblical issues like, predestination, the literal 6 days of creation, post or pre trib, etc. I know people who attend CC's who have varying views on each of those things. I *think* I believe in predestination, I do believe in a literal 6 days of creation, and I'm a pre-trib person. But really? I don't think those are issues of Salvation and therefore, left open to discussion.

As to the "at war with God" statement, I'm not sure exactly what they were thinking but the first scripture that comes to my mind is from Matthew... "He that is not with me is against me"...not sure the exact address/scripture and verse. :p. The idea being that if we are not for God, we are set against Him...or "at war". Again, that's my take on it but it was never something that stood out or stumped me so I haven't thought too deeply about it. Regarding that verse, I don't think the implication is that Christians are at war with non-Christians but rather our individual spirit is set against the spirit of God and the things of God when we are still non-believers. It's not a religious call to arms. :)


I am chiming in late but wanted to say that I agree with this.

I will add that I think sometimes even Christians get too caught up in the debate about hell being literal or not. Eternity will be defined by God. Either we will spend eternity with God who is holy, just, righteous, loving, merciful and all good or we will spend eternity in the absence of God and all his attributes. The real torment of hell will be the absence of God (IMO).

Here is what our church beliefs are...

Articles of Faith:

The Scriptures
The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the inspired Word of God (II Timothy 3:l5) presenting to us the complete revelation of His will for the Salvation of men, and constituting the Divine and only rule of Christian faith and practice (II Peter 1:21)

The Godhead
Our God is a trinity in unity, manifested in three persons; the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. God is infinitely perfect, being in His three persons co-existent, co-equal, and co-eternal. God the Father is greater than all (John 14:28); the source of the Word (LOGOS)and the begetter (John 16:28; John 1:14) The Son was the begotten of the Father, accenting earthly limitations, true God and true man; conceived by the Holy Ghost and born of the Virgin Mary. He died upon the cross, the Just for the unjust as a substitutionary sacrifice, and all who believe in Him are justified on the grounds of His shed blood. He arose from the dead according to the Scriptures. He is now at the right hand of the Majesty on High as our greater High Priest, and He will return again to establish His kingdom of righteousness and justice. The Holy Spirit is a Divine Person, Executive of the Godhead on earth, the comforter sent by the Lord Jesus Christ to indwell, to guide, and to teach the believer, and to convince the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment.

Man, His Fall and Redemption
Man is a created being, made in the likeness and the image of God, but through Adam's transgression and fall, sin came into the world. (Romans 5:12). "All have sinned and come short of the glory of God."(Romans 3:23). "As it is written, God, was manifested to undo the work of the devil and gave His life and shed His blood to redeem and restore man back to God. (I John 3:8) Salvation is the gift of God to man, separate from works and the Law, and is made operative by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, producing works acceptable to God. (Ephesians 2:8)

Salvation
Salvation is made possible through the meritorious work of Jesus Christ on the cross and through Holy Spirit conviction. Godly sorrow works repentance and makes possible the experience of the new birth, and Christ formed within us is the gift of eternal life. (Titus 2:11; Romans 10:l3-l5; Luke 24:47; Titus 3:5-7).

The Church
The Church is the Body of Christ, the habitation of God through the Spirit, with divine appointments for the fulfillment of her great commission. Each believer, born of the Spirit, is an integral part of the General Assembly and Church of the First-born, which are written in heaven. (Eph. 1:22, 23; 2:22; Heb. 12:23).

Ministry
God, through the Holy Spirit, definitely calls such as He desires to serve as evangelists, pastors, and teachers, and specifically endures the one called with the talents and gifts peculiar to that office or offices (Ephesians 4:11-13) Under no circumstances should anyone be ordained or set apart to any such office unless the calling is distinct and evident.

Water Baptism
Baptism in water is by immersion, and is a direct commandment of our Lord (Matthew 28:19) and is for believers only. The ordinance is a symbol of the Christian's identification with Christ in His death, burial and resurrection. (Romans 6:4; Colossians 2:12; Acts 8:36-39).

Baptism of the Holy Ghost
The Baptism of the Holy Ghost and fire (Matthew 3:11) is a gift from God, as promised by the Lord Jesus Christ to all believers in this dispensation, and is received subsequent to the new birth. (John 14:16-17; Acts 1:8; 2:4; 38-39; 10;44-48). The Baptism of the Holy Ghost is accompanied with speaking in other tongues as the Holy Spirit Himself gives the utterance as the initial physical sign and evidence. (Acts 2:4).

Sanctification
The Bible teaches that without holiness no man can see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14). We believe in the doctrine of sanctification as a definite, yet progressive, work of grace, commencing at the time of regeneration and continuing until the consummation of Salvation. (Hebrews 13:12; II Thessalonians 2:13; I Peter 1:2; Ephesians 5:26; I Corinthians 6:11; John 17:17; I Thessalonians 5:23)

Lord's Supper
The ordinance of the Lord's Supper is a commandment of our Saviour; and being a memorial to His death and resurrection, is strictly limited to Christian believers (I Corinthians 11:27). Its time and frequency of observance is left to the discretion of the Pastor.

Divine Healing
Healing is for the physical ills of the human body and is wrought by the power of God, through the prayer of faith, and by the laying on of hands. (Mark 16:18; James 5:14-l5); It is provided for in the atonement of Christ, and is available to all who truly believe.

The Second Coming of Christ and Resurrection of the Just
The Bible promises, "This same Jesus shall so come in like manner." (Acts 1:11). His coming is imminent; when he comes, "The dead in Christ shall rise first: then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air." (I Thessalonians 4:16-17). Following the tribulation He shall return to earth, as King of Kings, and Lord of Lords, and together with His saints, who shall be kings and priests, He shall reign a thousand years. (Rev. 20:6).

Hell and Eternal Retribution
The one who physically dies in his sins without Christ is hopelessly and eternally lost in the lake of fire, and therefore has no further opportunity of hearing the Gospel or for repentance (Hebrews 9:27) The lake of fire is literal (Revelation 19:20). The terms "eternal" and "everlasting" used in describing the duration of the punishment of the dammed (Matthew 25:41-46) in the lake of fire, carry the same thought and meaning of endless existence, as used in denoting the duration of joy and ecstacy of saints in the presence of God.

Tithes
We recognize the Scriptural duty of all our people to pay tithes as unto the Lord. (Hebrews 7:8) Tithes should be used for the support of the active ministry and for the propagation of the Gospel and work of the Lord in general and not given to charity or used for other purposes. (Malachi 3:7-11 Hebrews 7:2; I Corinthians 9:7-11;16:2.)

Jessica, is your church Pentecostal? Or am I way off?

Jessica, is your church Pentecostal? Or am I way off?

:lol: :lol: You hit it on the nose, we are Pentecostal. My dh is a Youth Pastor at the church he grewup in and that we met in. If you have any questions feel free to ask. I have not always been Pentecostal, I was raised in the United Church of Christ.

I just wanted to encourage you. It took me seven years and I feel that I've finally found a church home, praying all the while that when I found it I'd *know*. And I did!

I again attended a non denominational church today with my girls. Ava didn't care for it, but Stephanie loves it! I just feel very comfortable there.

I again attended a non denominational church today with my girls. Ava didn't care for it, but Stephanie loves it! I just feel very comfortable there.

What did Ava not like?

What did Ava not like?

You name it!:lol:
She didn;t like the sermon- too boring. She doesn't like to go with the other kids, though- they make them sing and dance and she's too shy. I left her home with dh last week, but he's not here right now, and once he's gone for the 14 months she'll have no choice. Either she'll stay with me and be bored or go with the other kids. 2 out of 3 people happy is good enough right now.

Our Church's Statement of Beliefs:


We believe that Truth is both simple and complex, and that the greatest truths are often held in tension. Thus, we believe that…

* Our God is one; Our God is three - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
* Our God is good; yet He allows evil in the human experience.
* Our God is sovereign; yet affords humanity freedom of choice.
* Our God is merciful; and completely just.
* Jesus is fully human; and is the visible expression of the invisible God.
* Scripture is inspired by God, infallible for all purposes He intends; and is at the same time the words of men - human in origin.

We believe that God expressed Himself in the person of Jesus Christ and made it possible for humanity to re-experience communion with Himself - a privilege lost through the sin of humanity.

* Christ redeems conditions and circumstances in our lives that have been twisted and destroyed by our brokenness and failure.
* God has given us His Spirit to indwell all who desire and invite Him. Real people can and do experience God in a real way.
* By His indwelling Spirit, He gives us new lives and increasingly frees us of our baggage and soul-stains.
* This redemptive process begins as we invite and open to His presence and rule in our lives.

We believe God has instituted certain practices to help us forward in this redeeming process. For this reason we intentionally pursue…

* Christian community - sharing communally both the sacraments of corporate body life, and the joy of intimate spiritual friendships.
* Water baptism as seal of the covenant promise of God's abiding power and presence.
* Observance of the Lord's Table, open to all believers, to celebrate and re-experience His covenant promise of relationship.
* A moderate policy in public worship, between extreme fanaticism and ultra-ritualism.
* Sharing our experience of God with others
* Christ-like love and acceptance of all people of all peoples and races - Christian or not.
* Making restitution for our wrongs whenever possible.
* Tithing as God's plan for financial freedom.
* Liberty of conscience before God as it regards personal recreation.
* The pursuit of unity with all believers.
* Respect and Christian love toward people of all religions.

"in essentials - unity, in non-essentials - liberty; and in all things - charity"

Our hope is to become a modern-day tribe – people committed to interdependent relationships with one another, strengthening, supporting, and helping one another on this journey to a deep experience of God.

Our Church's Statement of Beliefs:


We believe that Truth is both simple and complex, and that the greatest truths are often held in tension. Thus, we believe that…

* Our God is one; Our God is three - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
* Our God is good; yet He allows evil in the human experience.
* Our God is sovereign; yet affords humanity freedom of choice.
* Our God is merciful; and completely just.
* Jesus is fully human; and is the visible expression of the invisible God.
* Scripture is inspired by God, infallible for all purposes He intends; and is at the same time the words of men - human in origin.

We believe that God expressed Himself in the person of Jesus Christ and made it possible for humanity to re-experience communion with Himself - a privilege lost through the sin of humanity.

* Christ redeems conditions and circumstances in our lives that have been twisted and destroyed by our brokenness and failure.
* God has given us His Spirit to indwell all who desire and invite Him. Real people can and do experience God in a real way.
* By His indwelling Spirit, He gives us new lives and increasingly frees us of our baggage and soul-stains.
* This redemptive process begins as we invite and open to His presence and rule in our lives.

We believe God has instituted certain practices to help us forward in this redeeming process. For this reason we intentionally pursue…

* Christian community - sharing communally both the sacraments of corporate body life, and the joy of intimate spiritual friendships.
* Water baptism as seal of the covenant promise of God's abiding power and presence.
* Observance of the Lord's Table, open to all believers, to celebrate and re-experience His covenant promise of relationship.
* A moderate policy in public worship, between extreme fanaticism and ultra-ritualism.
* Sharing our experience of God with others
* Christ-like love and acceptance of all people of all peoples and races - Christian or not.
* Making restitution for our wrongs whenever possible.
* Tithing as God's plan for financial freedom.
* Liberty of conscience before God as it regards personal recreation.
* The pursuit of unity with all believers.
* Respect and Christian love toward people of all religions.

"in essentials - unity, in non-essentials - liberty; and in all things - charity"

Our hope is to become a modern-day tribe – people committed to interdependent relationships with one another, strengthening, supporting, and helping one another on this journey to a deep experience of God.

What denomination is this?

What denomination is this?


Its a foursquare church. Which is a denomination that I'd never heard of before joining this church in 1996. But I really feel like it lives out like a non-denominational church.

link to my church's website (http://www.nrcchome.org)