We confess and believe that:
A. The Bible is the Word of God (John 1:1).
B. Jesus Christ is the Word made flesh who dwelt among us (John 1:14).
C. Holy men of God wrote the Bible as they were directed by the Holy Spirit of God (2 Peter 1:20-21; Acts 28:25).
D. The Bible is truth and the revelation of God’s will. It is our ultimate guide for what we believe and how we live (Psalm 12:6-7; John 17:17; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; Revelation 22:18-20).
E. All scripture is profitable to the believer. It must be accurately handled and applied (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Timothy 2:15; Galatians 1:8-9; 2 Peter 3:15-16; 2 Corinthians 4:2).
We believe and confess that there is only one God and that He is expressed in three distinct Persons (Matthew 3:16-17; Genesis 1:26; Deuteronomy 6:4; Luke 3:21-22; Matthew 28:19-20; 1 John 5:7; Romans 8:8-15; 1 Timothy 3:16). We believe that in 1 Peter 1:2, three distinct Persons of the Godhead are expressed as follows:
A. God the Father
1) God is eternal, having neither beginning nor end (Deuteronomy 33:27; Psalms 90:2; Revelation 1:8).
2) There is only one God who is above all and sustains all (Malachi 3:10; 1 Corinthians 8:6; Ephesians 4:6).
3) God is Holy; therefore, He cannot tolerate sin (Deuteronomy 25:16; 1 Peter 1:15-16).
4) God created man and established right and wrong (Genesis 1-3).
5) God sustains the earth (Genesis 8:22; Job 38; Colossians 1:16-17).
6) God will judge every person and destroy the earth on the last day (2 Peter 3:7-10; Revelation 20:12).
7) God deeply loves every person and longs to deliver every person from sin (John 3:16-18; 2 Peter 3:9).
B. God the Son
1) The Son was one with the Father and the Spirit at creation (John 1:1-3; Genesis 1:1-2).
2) Jesus Christ came to this earth as God in the flesh (Isaiah 9:6, Isaiah 44:6; John 1:1-3; John 8:56-59; John 17:5).
3) Jesus Christ, both human and divine, was conceived by the Holy Spirit in the virgin womb of Mary (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18-23; Luke 1:26-35).
4) Jesus Christ came to earth and walked among men. He is the perfect sacrifice as payment for our sins (Exodus 12:5-7; Leviticus 22:21; Isaiah 53:1-12; Matthew 3:13-17; Matthew 4:23-25; John 1:29).
5) According to the Gospels, Jesus Christ suffered, died, was buried, rose again from the dead on the third day, and lives forever. He will never die but lives forever (Matthew 26, 27, 28; 1 Corinthians 15:1-8; Revelation 1:17-18).
6) Jesus Christ ascended into heaven and sits on the right hand of God, where He makes intercession for the believers day and night (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25).
7) Jesus Christ will come again in the clouds to deliver us from this world and take us to heaven (Acts 1:9-11; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).
C. God the Holy Spirit (Holy Spirit and Holy Ghost are used interchangeably).
1) The Holy Ghost is the third Person of the Trinity (1 John 5:7; Acts 5:1-4; Romans 8:5-11).
2) The Holy Ghost was One with the Father and the Son in Creation (Genesis 1:1-2).
3) The Holy Ghost convinces the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:7-8; Acts 2:37; Acts 24:25).
4) The Holy Ghost comforts believers, guides them into all truth, empowers them for service, and enables them to live a godly life (John 16:13; Acts 1:8; Romans 8:1-4; 2 Corinthians 3:3,17).
5) The Holy Ghost gives guidance to and equips the New Testament church (Acts 13:1-3; Romans 12:6-8; 1 Corinthians 12:4-12).
6) The Holy Ghost gives gifts for the purpose of edifying the church (1 Corinthians 12:1-12; 1 Corinthians 14:12; Romans 14:19).
7) We do, however, recognize there are counterfeits to the Holy Ghost (1 John 4:1-3; Matthew 7:21-23).
We confess and believe that:
A. God, in the first six literal days, created heaven, earth, and all things seen and unseen (Genesis 1; Psalms 33:6-9; Isaiah 42:5; Colossians 1:16-17).
B. We believe that God made man as an eternal soul, in His own image, with a free will, and the ability to think and reason (Genesis 1:26-27; Genesis 2:7, 15-17; Genesis 3:6; John 1:1-13).
C. God created man to be fruitful and have dominion over the earth (Genesis 1:26-28; Genesis 2:15).
A. Satan is a being created by God (Job 1:6; Job 2:1; Ezekiel 28:12-15).
B. Satan was a high angel of praise called Lucifer. Jealousy, rebellion, and pride caused him to fall from his heavenly place (Isaiah 14:12-15; Ezekiel 28:15-17).
C. One third of the angels followed Satan in his rebellion and are now demons in his kingdom (Revelation 12:4-9).
D. Satan is a murderer, liar, and deceiver (John 8:44; Revelation 12:9).
E. Satan tries to imitate God, coming as an angel of light with power, signs, and lying wonders (2 Corinthians 11:12-15; 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10).
F. Satan is an accuser of the brethren, a thief, and our adversary (Revelation 12:10; John 10:10; 1 Peter 5:8-9).
G. If we choose a life of sin, we become part of Satan’s kingdom (John 8:34, 39-41, 44-47; 1 John 3:8).
H. Without someone to deliver us from Satan’s powerful kingdom, we will die in his kingdom and in his service and will receive the same end — eternal death (Revelation 13; Matthew 25:41; John 8:23-24; Romans 6:23).
I. Deliverance and authority over Satan are only possible through the precious name of Jesus Christ (Mark 9:20-27; Acts 16:16-18; Colossians 2:14-15; James 4:7).
J. If we stand by faith in Jesus Christ, His perfect love casts out all fear of Satan, our former king, and his kingdom. (1 John 4:18; 2 Timothy 1:7; Ephesians 6:10-18).
K. We renounce all allegiance to Satan, his kingdom, his demons, and his power. This includes witchcraft, charms, sorcery, divination, fortunetelling, mystical healings, calling upon the dead, and other occult and New Age practices. These practices shall be renounced in the name of Jesus to maintain church purity (Deuteronomy 18:9-12; Galatians 5:19-21; Matthew 12:28-30; Mark 9:28-29; 2 Corinthians 10:3-6; Ephesians 5:25-27).
We confess and believe that:
A. Man was created in the image of God, pure, perfect, and had eternal life (Genesis 1:26-28, 31; Genesis 2:7).
B. Man chose to follow Satan, disobey God, and this brought separation and death. This death was immediate in the spirit of man and eventual in the physical. (Genesis 2:16-17: Genesis 3:1-19; Romans 6:23).
C. Death passed upon all men; all have sinned. No man is perfect, pure, or holy. (Genesis 4:1-7; Romans 3:10-23; Romans 5:12; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Galatians 5:19-21).
D. All people need to be reconciled with God through Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:22; Romans 11:22).
We confess and believe that:
A. There is life after death. Our soul and spirit live forever. (Ecclesiastes 12:7; Job 19:25-27; Matthew 22:29-32; John 11:25-26; 2 Corinthians 5:1).
B. Heaven is a real place that God has made for all who have trusted Christ Jesus for salvation and remain faithful to death (Matthew 5:12; Matthew 24:13; Hebrews 3:14; Revelation 2:10).
C. Heaven is a beautiful place of no hunger, no sorrow, no pain, no sickness, and no death. There is only peace, joy, comfort, and contentment forever and ever (Luke 23:43; John 14:1-2; Revelation 7:17; Revelation 21, 22).
D. Hell, or the lake of fire, is a real place. (Matthew 10:28; Matthew 25:46; Revelation 21:8).
E. God made Hell for Satan and his demons as their dwelling forever and ever. All men and women who do not receive Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior will be cast into hell with Satan and his demons forever (Matthew 25:41; Revelation 14:10-11).
F. Hell is an awful place of torment, torture, pain, sorrow, and death that can never end. The flames of hell never go out, and the worm never dies. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew 13:49-50; Mark 9:43-48; Revelation 14:10-11).
G. There will be no goodness, grace, mercy, or anything God-like in hell (Luke 16:22-25).
H. Once a soul has gone there, he shall never be able to leave and is eternally separated from God (Luke 16:26-31).
We confess and believe that:
A. All who put their faith and confidence in Jesus Christ shall be saved (John 3:16-17; 1 Corinthians 15:1-3).
B. Jesus is the sacrifice that is acceptable to God the Father. Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many (Isaiah 53:10; Hebrews 9:22-28; Hebrews 13:12).
C. Man must respond with faith in the sacrifice of Christ (Romans 4:3; Romans 5:1-2).
D. Our faith leads us to repent from our sinful lives. Repentance includes:
1) Godly sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:10-11).
2) Turning from sin. (Isaiah 55:7; Romans 6:1-6).
3) Confession of sins (Proverbs 28:13; John 3:18-21; I John 1:9).
4) Seeking deliverance and victory (Titus 2:11-12).
E. Faith causes believers to respond with deep love, appreciation, and obedience to Jesus Christ, who loves us and gave himself for us (John 14:21-24; 1 John 3:23).
1) For those who come to God this way, He forgives and blots out the remembrance of all their sins through Jesus’ blood (Isaiah 43:25; Acts 3:19; Ephesians 2:1).
2) All who try to come to God by any way other than through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ cannot enter heaven. They will be accounted as thieves and robbers (John 10:1; Acts 4:10-12).
We confess and believe that:
A. God’s Holy Spirit comes into the heart of every true believer at salvation (Ezekiel 36:26; Romans 8:9-11).
B. The believer is blessed with the assurance that:
1) His sins are forgiven (1 John 1:8-10; Psalm 32:5).
2) God has adopted him as His child (John 1:11-12; Romans 8:14-17; Galatians 4:3-6; 1John 5:10-13).
3) God’s love for him is very real (1 John 3:1-3; 1 John 4:9-10).
C. The Spirit of God works in our hearts to:
1) Cleanse and activate our conscience (Romans 9:1; Hebrews 9:14).
2) Purify the heart, thoughts, attitudes, motives, words, and deeds (James 3:13-18; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; Ezekiel 36:27; 1 Corinthians 3:16-17).
3) Inspire us as we feed on His Word (John 14:26; John 17:17; 1 Peter 2:1-3).
D. Sanctification begins when we are saved and continues through life as we follow Him as our Lord (1 Peter 1:2; Ephesians 4:22-24; Romans 6:16; Colossians 3:3-17.
E. The Holy Spirit does not possess us as a demon. He never forces us to do anything against our will (John 16:13; 1 Corinthians 14:32-33; Ephesians 4:30; 1 Thessalonians 5:19).
F. We grow in the grace of God according to our willingness to submit to God the Holy Spirit. (;2 Corinthians 7:1; 2 Timothy 2:21; 1 John 4:4-6; Zechariah 4:6).
G. We must daily choose to continue walking in the commandments of Christ, who will keep us from falling into sin and present us with all our sins forgiven before God’s throne. (John 8:31-32; Galatians 3:11; 2 Peter 1:5-11; Jude 24).
We believe and confess that the kingdom of God is a spiritual kingdom and stands in contrast to the kingdoms of the world. In the Sermon on the Mount, Christ taught his standard of holiness for His kingdom (Matthew 5, 6, 7). As citizens of His kingdom, we believe and confess that:
A. Our King calls us to be committed to the interests of His kingdom.
1) Jesus Christ calls for our allegiance above all else. He is King of kings (Luke 14:27; 1 Timothy 6:14-15).
2) We do not involve ourselves in earthly governments, political parties, fraternities, or similar organizations that would unequally yoke us with unbelievers and violate scriptural principles (2 Corinthians 6:14-18; Ephesians 5:8-12).
3) We do not participate in wars but rather love our enemies. We do not wear any military-style uniform nor salute any flag because our kingdom knows no flag, uniform, or political boundaries (Matthew 5:38-48; John 18:36; Acts 1:6-8; 1 Thessalonians 5:22-23).
4) We are careful to choose an occupation that will glorify God (Ephesians 4:28).
B. Our King asks us to respond with suffering love to our enemies by:
1) Not seeking revenge but trusting God (Romans 12:19).
2) Blessing those who curse us. (Matthew 5:44; Romans 12:14).
3) Doing good to those who abuse us (Romans 12:20-21).
4) Not going to law to demand rights (Matthew 5:39-41; 1 Corinthians 6:1).
C. Our King is the God of truth, therefore:
1) We must be honest (Psalm 101:7; Proverbs 12:22; Ephesians 4:25).
2) Our yes must be yes, and our no be no (Matthew 5:37).
3) We affirm to tell the truth at all times. We do not take oaths or swear to tell the truth because our king commands us not to (Matthew 5:33-36; James 5:12).
4) We must each evaluate our words before God because we must all give an account of our words (Matthew 12:36-37).
D. Our King has promised to provide for our needs by:
1) Not expecting the government to care for us in sickness or old age, but rather looking to family and brotherhood first for our needs (Acts 4:32; Philippians 4:19; 1 Peter 5:7).
2) Not putting excessive trust in insurance companies to meet our needs. (Matthew 6:25-34; Luke 12:30-33; 2 Corinthians 8:13-15).
3) Helping to bear one another’s burdens (1 Corinthians 16:1-2; Galatians 6:2).
4) Striving to care for the needy as though they were Christ himself (Matthew 25:31-46).
We believe and confess that every born-again believer is a disciple of Jesus Christ, as Jesus taught in John 8:31-32. Therefore, we believe:
A. We must take up our cross and follow Jesus. We are continually learning to yield our lives to Jesus in loving obedience, denying sin, the world, and ourselves. (Galatians 2:20-21; Matthew 16:24-25).
B. All that we have belongs to Christ. Family ties, possessions, all personal dreams and purposes, and even our lives are subject to our Master. We choose to give where there is need (Luke 14:33; Matthew 10:37-39; Ephesians 4:28).
C. We should live as strangers in this world, looking forward to our home in heaven (Hebrews 11:13-16).
We believe that the command of our King to go into all the world and make disciples is valid and still applies to us today. Therefore, we believe:
A. All Christians are commanded to tell the Good News to others near and far (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15; Acts 5:32; Acts 8:4; Psalm 126:6).
B. New converts should be baptized upon their profession of faith in Christ Jesus (Matthew 28:19).
C. The many gifts within the brotherhood are to be exercised in “teaching them all things, whatsoever I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:20; Ephesians 4:11-13).
D. Christians should be actively involved in discipling new believers, teaching them the Word of God, how to walk, and helping them grow in their faith (2 Timothy 2:2; Acts 18:24-26; 1 Corinthians 3:6-8; Acts 14:22).
E. Christians should bring their children up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, discipling them to be faithful believers (Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Ephesians 6:4; 2 Timothy 1:5; 2 Timothy 3:15).
We read in Genesis 3:21 that God gave man the first durable clothing. We seek guidance from God and His Word on this subject. Therefore, we confess that:
A. Clothing for both brothers and sisters will be modest, covering and hiding the human form (Mark 16:5; 1 Timothy 2:8-9; Revelation 1:13).
B. Clothing and personal appearance will clearly distinguish a difference in dress between a man and a woman. (Mark 10:6; 1 Corinthians 6:9; 1 Corinthians 11:4-5; Deuteronomy 22:5).
C. Clothing shall be simple and free of pride and ornamentation. Believers shall not wear gold, pearls, or a costly array. We believe outward adorning detracts from the inner beauty of Christ’s presence (1 Timothy 2:9; 1 Peter 3:3-4; Isaiah 3:16-24; 1 John 2:16; Luke 16:19; Revelation 17:4).
D. We do not follow the changing fads and fashions of the world, for they are vanity (1 Thessalonians 5:22; Titus 2:11-12; 1 Peter 1:14; Romans 12:2).
E. Brothers will be free from the shame of long hair, and sisters from the shame of shorn hair. Sisters will conceal their hair (their glory) under a covering (1 Corinthians 11:14-15).
F. As we choose godly clothing, we need to ask:
1) Is it modest without a question?
2) Is it free from the appearance of fashion and costly array?
3) Does it appear neat and simple?
We believe and confess that the Christian experience begins with a decision and continues in the life of believers who maintain their relationships with God. The Christian experience is fellowship with our Father in heaven by:
A. Worshipping God in the Spirit with the whole heart (John 4:23-24).
B. Prayer, both private and public (Ephesians 6:18; Colossians 3:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:17).
C. Reading, studying, and meditating on God’s Word (1 Timothy 4:13-15; 2 Timothy 2:15).
D. Hearing and memorizing the Bible helps us to hide God’s Word in our hearts (Psalms 119:11).
E. Fasting (Matthew 6:16-18).
F. Serving others with alms (Matthew 6:1-4).
G. Singing and making melody in the heart to the Lord (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16).
H. Living a holy life before God and our fellow men (1 Peter 1:15-16; 2 Peter 3:11-12; Romans 8:4; Galatians 5:22-24).
I. Keeping a clear conscience (Acts 24:16; 1 Timothy 1:5; 2 Corinthians 3:18).
J. Making honest confessions to God and to others (James 5:16; 1 Peter 3:15-16).
We believe and confess the importance of a godly home for teaching the faith, love, and moral purity. God has established order for our homes, as we see in the following scriptures:
A. A husband and wife need to be united in their home. A house divided against itself cannot stand. God wants to bless each home with being heirs together with the grace of life (Mark 3:24-26; 1 Peter 3:7-9).
B. The father is the head of the home (1 Corinthians 11:3).
1) He is responsible for direction, oversight, and leadership (Genesis 18:19; 1 Thessalonians 2:11).
2) He shall turn his heart to his children (Malachi 4:5-6; Luke 1:16-17).
3) He is to be an example and teach faith, love, and purity (Ephesians 6:4; 1 Thessalonians 4:1; Hebrews 11:6).
4) In the fear of God, he is to keep himself pure and holy for his wife alone (1 Corinthians 7:1-3).
5) He is to think of his family as a privilege and as a blessing sent from God. Accordingly, he is to accept the awesome responsibility to lead them in the ways of God (Psalms 127).
6) His wife and his children should know that He loves God supremely and each of them individually (Psalm 128).
7) He is to guard and protect against ungodly and devilish influences that threaten to enter his home (Hebrews 11:7; Deuteronomy 6:6-7; 2 Corinthians 11:2).
C. The godly wife will be a submissive helper suitable for her husband (Genesis 2:18; Ephesians 5:22; 1 Peter 3:1-6).
1) She will keep herself pure and holy for God, for her husband, and as a good example to her children. Her body is for her husband alone (1 Corinthians 7:1-3).
2) She will do him good, support him, and not speak evil of him at home or elsewhere (Proverbs 31:10-31; 1 Timothy 3:11).
3) She will be a keeper at home and love her husband and their children (Titus 2:3-5).
4) She will organize the affairs within the home and with the children under her husband’s oversight, especially giving direction when her husband is absent (1 Timothy 5:13-14).
D. Children are a heritage of the Lord (Psalms 127:3).
1) God wants parents to long to have children and to love them (Genesis 1:28; Psalm 113:9; Proverbs 17:6).
2) The world’s view is that children are a burden. God says children are a reward (Psalms 127:3-5).
3) Abortion and the “spirit of abortion” (I don’t want this child) are sin before God (Isaiah 44:24; Psalm 139:13; Jeremiah 1:5; Genesis 9:6-7; Exodus 20:13).
4) The seed of sin is in the heart of every child and will do evil if left alone (Roman 5:12; Proverbs 22:15).
5) We must train our children to do right (Proverbs 22:6; Isaiah 28:9-10).
6) We must administer loving, consistent discipline, never with beatings or in anger. Spanking, however, is very effective when done with love (Proverbs 13:24; Proverbs 19:18).
7) Children are commanded by God to obey and honor their parents (Ephesians 6:1-3; Proverbs 23:22; Mark 7:10; 2 Timothy 3:14-15).
We believe and confess that the church is the body of Christ, both locally and worldwide. Therefore, we believe that:
A. The church is made up of all true believers from every nation, race, language, and tribe who have responded to the call of salvation with the obedience of faith (John 3:16; Acts 10:34-35; Romans 10:10-13; Revelation 5:9).
B. God has established order for the church.
1) The Head of the church is Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:22-23; 1 Corinthians 12:27).
2) Local church bodies are organized under elders and deacons (or evangelists in outreach locations) (1 Timothy 3:1-14; Titus 1:5).
3) Believers are called to submit to the leaders placed over them (Hebrews 13:7, 17).
C. Elders give oversight and direction to the local body. They are responsible:
1) To be jealous for the purity and honor of Jesus Christ and His church (Hebrews 13:17).
2) To preach the gospel faithfully to the saved and lost (1 Corinthians 1:21-23; 2 Timothy 4:2).
3) To feed the flock of God with spiritual food (1 Peter 5:1-3; Acts 20:28).
4) To keep their own conscience clear as a good example to the believers (Acts 24:16).
5) To follow the deep humility of our Lord Jesus Christ, who, though He was equal to God, became a servant. (Philippians 2:5-8).
6) It is our practice for elders to oversee baptism, communion, and wedding services (Matthew 28:18-20).
7) If possible, there should be more than one elder to serve each local body (1 Corinthians 14:29-33; Titus 1:5).
D. Deacons’ primary responsibilities are:
1) To care for the physical needs of the church and her members (Acts 6:1-6).
2) To assist the elders as needed. To do the work of an elder when the elder cannot be present (Acts 8:5-8; Acts 21:8; Acts 6:7-10).
3) To preach, exhort, and teach as Stephen and Philip did (Acts 6:8-10; Acts 8:5-8).
E. All brothers:
1) All brothers should seek to develop their gifts in the brotherhood (Matthew 25:14-30; Romans 12:4-8; Ephesians 4:11-12).
2) The Bible teaches that church leadership roles shall be filled by brothers. Sisters shall not teach or usurp authority over the brothers. We recognize the role of leadership that godly, mature sisters have in teaching other women (1 Corinthians 14:34-37; 1 Timothy 2:11-13; Titus 2:1).
We believe and confess that the Bible gives specific direction to the brotherhood. The brotherhood should conduct itself in:
A. Discipline
1) When we see inconsistencies, concerns, questionable behavior, or sin, we are called to first speak to that person privately (not to others), following the pattern found in Matthew 5:21-24; Matthew 18:15-17.
2) The brotherhood is to administer loving discipline in the attitude of restoration and with the goal of reconciliation (1 Corinthians 5; 2 Corinthians 2:5-11; 2 Thessalonians 3:11-15; Titus 3:9-11; Romans 16:17-18; Galatians 6:1).
3) These sins should not be found in the brotherhood: gossip, slander, cursing, and backbiting (Romans 1:29-32; Romans 14:13; 2 Thessalonians 3:11-12; 1 Timothy 5:13).
B. Support
1) We are to bear one another’s burdens, helping each other physically, emotionally, and spiritually (Romans 15:1-3; Galatians 6:2; Ephesians 2:19; 1 Peter 3:8-9).
2) We must seek to build each other up in the faith (Hebrews 3:13; Hebrews 10:25; 1 Thessalonians 5:14-15; Romans 12:18).
3) We will work together to meet the needs of others (Romans 15:25-27).
4) We are admonished to love the brotherhood (1 Peter 1:22-23; 1 Peter 2:17).
C. Submission
1) We are called to live in humble submission to one another (Ephesians 5:21; Philippians 2:1-3; 1 Peter 5:5).
2) We are called to submit to our leaders in the brotherhood (Hebrews 13:7, 17; Titus 1:5; 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13; 1 Corinthians 4:17; Philippians 4:9).
3) We are called to obey earthly governments and employers when we do not have to disobey Christ Jesus to do so (Acts 4:19-20; 1 Timothy 6:1-2; Titus 2:9-10; 1 Peter 2:13-15).
4) Our genuine love and humble, submissive lives are our greatest testimony to a lost world (John 13:35; John 14:23; John 15:12-13; 1 John 3:16; 1 Peter 3:12-18).
We believe and confess that Christian ordinances (baptism, communion, feet washing, headship covering, holy kiss, and anointing with oil) are for all believers everywhere until Jesus comes again. The following ordinances are practices that symbolize spiritual truths:
A. Baptism symbolizes dying to sin, being buried with Christ, and rising with Him again (Romans 6; Colossians 2:10-12), therefore:
1) Baptism should be done in water, if possible, because this best fulfills the type of burial (Romans 6:4; Acts 8:38-40).
2) Baptism is to be administered only to repentant believers of responsible age who have assurance of salvation and have testified of their faith in Jesus Christ. Anyone coming to us with a clear conscience who was baptized as a believer need not be baptized again (Acts 2:38; 1 Peter 3:21-22; Hebrews 10:22-23).
3) Baptism is not salvation, but rather an act of obedience and public commitment in the life of a believer (Luke 23:39-43; Romans 4:1-11; Romans 5:1).
4) We do not practice infant baptism because we believe children are under grace before the age of accountability (Matthew 18:1-4; Matthew 19:13-15).
5) We do not find a clear direction in the Bible on a particular mode of baptism. We prefer baptism by immersion but are open to baptism by pouring (Acts 10:44-48; Romans 6:4).
6) Baptisms are overseen by an elder. Deacons or evangelists may baptize or help with baptizing under the elder’s direction.
7) Baptism should never be taken lightly. It is of great spiritual importance (Romans 6:1-6; Colossians 2:12; 1 Peter 3:21-22).
8) All wishing to be baptized should be carefully interviewed and taught beforehand. Teaching precedes baptism (Matthew 28:19).
9) Before baptism, every believer needs to count the cost of this decision. (Luke 14:26-33; 2 Peter 2:20-22).
10) Along with baptism comes public renunciation of sin, self, and Satan. It is a public testimony to the believers and the unbelievers of a change of allegiance. (Acts 8:12; Acts 10:44-48; Acts 11:15-16; Acts 19:18-20).
B. Communion symbolizes our participation in the broken body and shed blood of Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 11:18-34). If we do not have true inward communion with Jesus, the outward symbol will be empty and vain.
1) Communion must be kept holy.
2) Only baptized believers may partake.
3) We each need to examine our own lives and be sure that our conscience is clear. Each should ask: “Am I at peace with God and my brothers and sisters?” (1 Corinthians 11:27-28).
4) Those who are in obvious sin and whose conscience is not clear need to withhold from communion and clear their conscience as soon as possible so they can enjoy communion with Him again, both in their daily walk and in the communion service (1 Corinthians 5:7-8).
5) Visiting brothers and sisters who are known and recognized within the brotherhood may be granted the privilege of partaking in communion after giving a clear testimony.
6) Communion is served by elders, or by deacons and evangelists under the direction of an elder (Matthew 26:26-28; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26).
C. Feet washing symbolizes our deep love for God in practical, humble, lowly service to our fellowmen (John 13:1-17).
1) Our practice is that brothers wash brothers’ feet and sisters wash sisters’ feet.
2) Each one washes and is washed by another.
3) Let us find ways to humbly serve and spiritually wash one another.
4) Feet washing symbolizes the washing away of our sins (John 13:8).
D. Headship covering symbolizes the acceptance of divine order.
1) God is the head of Christ, Christ is the head of man, and the man is the head of the woman (1 Corinthians 11:3).
2) Even as Christ is not inferior to God, the woman is not inferior to the man (1 Corinthians 11:11-12).
3) Christ willingly submits to the leadership and authority of God the Father. The woman should also willingly submit to the leadership and authority of the man (Ephesians 5:22-24).
4) The covering of the hair has been recognized through all generations indicating a woman under authority (1 Corinthians 11:5-7).
5) The headship covering, which should be worn at all times (for we are always in the presence of the angels), sends a powerful message to the spirit world and to the physical world (1 Corinthians 11:10).
6) We do not have any specifics in the Bible of the form the headship veil should take. Our practice is using:
I. Flowing veils – It should be large enough to cover most of the hair and long enough to cover the neck. It should cover without question.
II. Cap or bonnet type – It needs to meet the criteria outlined above.
7) The veiling should be modest, loose, and not adorned. It should conceal (not see through) the beauty, glory, and attractiveness of a sister’s uncut hair, which is only for her husband (1 Corinthians 11:15).
8) Men are not to use any religious covering (1 Corinthians 11:4, 7).
E. The holy kiss symbolizes the deep, pure love we have for our fellow believers (Romans 16:16; 1 Corinthians 16:20; 2 Corinthians 13:12; 1 Peter 5:14).
1) Our practice is that brothers greet brothers with a cheek kiss and sisters greet sisters.
2) Hypocrisy ruins the meaning of the holy kiss. (Matthew 26:48-49).
F. Anointing with oil symbolizes our faith in God’s healing power. It involves the following:
1) Calling for the elders (James 5:14-15).
2) Confession of faults one to another (James 5:16).
3) Seeking God’s purpose in allowing sickness:
I. For His glory through healing (John 9:3).
II. Chastisement or a call to repentance (1 Corinthians 11:27-31).
III. Sickness unto death, the greatest healing (Isaiah 38:1).
4) The oil itself is not a special or holy potion. Any kind of oil is acceptable. The act of obedience and the prayer of faith are how we connect with the power of God (James 5:15).
Marriage was ordained by God for the blessing and benefit of the human race and for the purity of the family. God calls humanity to a higher moral responsibility, setting human relationships apart from mere animal instincts. We therefore believe and confess that:
A. God created marriage.
1) God created man, male and female (Genesis 1:26-28).
2) God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18).
3) God brought one man and one woman together. He told them to leave and to cleave (Genesis 2:21-25).
B. God’s design for a true marriage is:
1) As it was in the beginning, one man born a male and one woman born a female (Matthew 19:4; Mark 10:6).
2) Marriage is a public commitment to leave and cleave; to love and care for each other. They are no more twain, but one flesh as long as they both live (Matthew 19:5-6; Mark 10:7-8; 1 Peter 3:1-7).
3) Marriage is honorable in every nation, culture, or people, even among the unbelievers, if God’s design for true marriage is followed (Hebrews 13:4).
4) No one has the authority to dissolve a marriage but God. “What God hath joined together, let not man put asunder” (Mark 10:9; 1 Corinthians 7:39; Romans 7:2).
C. The Bible teaches moral purity in marriage.
1) Remarriage while the marriage partner is still living is adultery (Luke 16:18).
2) Any sexual relationship outside of marriage is adultery or fornication (Mark 10:11-12; Hebrews 13:4; 1 Thessalonians 4:3).
3) Lustful desires and emotions are adultery in the heart (Matthew 5:27-28).
D. Homosexual relationships, incest, fornication, and polygamy are not permitted under the New Covenant. These situations are not true marriages but sins that must be repented of by those involved. All these relationships are uncleanness and hated by the Lord and therefore must be dissolved (Romans 1:18-32; Ephesians 5:11-12; 2 Corinthians 6:17; Galatians 5:19; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Colossians 3:5-6).
E. The Christian marriage is God’s glorious design to represent a beautiful picture of Jesus Christ and His bride, the church.
1) A husband is to love his wife as Christ loves the church (Ephesians 5:25-33).
2) A wife is to submit to and reverence her husband as the church does to Christ (Ephesians 5:22-24, 33).
F. The goal for troubled marriages is reconciliation (1 Corinthians 7:11-15; Mark 10:2-9).
We recognize that different cultures have diverse requirements for a Christian wedding. Our practice is:
A. To establish marriage through pure courtship.
1) Abstaining from all appearance of evil with a commitment to a hands-off courtship (1 Thessalonians 5:22; 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8; 1 Corinthians 7:1-2; Romans 13:14; 1 Corinthians 6:13-20).
2) Committing to be under spiritual authority and accountability (1 Corinthians 11:3; Hebrews 13:17; Proverbs 6:20-21; Proverbs 7:1-27).
B. That the man has never been married or is a widower, and the woman has never been married or is a widow (1 Corinthians 7:39).
C. That they both are true believers (Exodus 34:10-16; Deuteronomy 7:3-4; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18).
D. That they enter into a covenant with each other and God publicly, and vow to love, honor, and be faithful until death parts them. Adam made a public declaration and commitment (Genesis 2:23-24).
E. That we encourage those entering marriage:
1) To avoid being pressured into a worldly mindset of extravagance at the wedding ceremony and reception. Gospel simplicity applies in everything (2 Corinthians 1:12; 1 Timothy 2:9; 1 Peter 1:14-15; 1 Peter 3:2-4).
2) To recognize the wedding as a worship service with the ministry officiating, and should focus the glory on Christ rather than on the bride (1 Corinthians 10:31, notice Revelation 19:1-9).
3) To keep the wedding as an occasion of great joy. However, pagan customs or foolishness do not honor Christ and should be avoided to maintain the seriousness and sacredness of the day (Ephesians 5:1-2; Romans 13:13-14; Ephesians 5:7, 11).
We acknowledge that as humans, we know in part and understand in part. When our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ shall appear, we shall know as we are known (1 Corinthians 13:12). We, the brotherhood of Shining Light Christian Fellowship, humbly submit this confession of faith, not as a book of human rules but as a statement of what we believe and practice among us as God’s will. In our humanity and frailty, we sometimes fall short of our ideals, but we seek God’s grace to live in a way that glorifies the LORD JESUS, who loved us and gave His life for us. We encourage all sincere seekers of truth to study our Confession of Faith and Practice in light of God’s Word. Updated March 2026
1. The Word Of God: We Believe and Confess that the Bible is the verbally inspired Word of God. It is the only rule for faith and practice. The Word of God, especially the New Testament, is the standard by which the Christian orders his life. ll Peter 1:20; ll Tim. 3:16.
2. The Deity Of Christ: We believe and confess the Jesus Christ is God incarnate, God in the Flesh. He was conceived by the Holy Ghost in the virgin womb of Mary. “The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14). Christ as Deity hung on the cross for our sins. If Christ be not God then we are yet in our sins without hope. John 1:1, Matt. 1:23
3. Fallen Man: We believe and confess that man is fallen creature. Created in the image and likeness of God, man through disobedience to God, fell to a condition of spiritual death. This death passed upon all men, Man is a helpless creature set only on wickedness continually. He needs salvation. Gen. 3; Rom. 5:12; Eph. 2:2
4. Heaven and Hell: We believe and confess that heaven and hell are real places. People who die without Christ will live eternally in a burning lake of fire being tormented in the flames. People who die in the Lord will live eternally in heaven with Christ experiencing blessings which no man can utter. Matt. 13:50; Matt. 3:12; Matt. 25:41; Rev. 14:11; John 14:1-3; Matt. 5:12; Rev. 22.
5. Salvation: we belive and confess that all who believe in Christ shall be saved. Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day. He is the sacrifice, the payment for the sins of fallen man. Man must respond with repentace (a change of heart) toward God and with faith (a heart attitude of belief) in our Lord Jesus Christ. Believing is a present, continuous act of the will. I Cor. 15:1-3; John 3:16; Rom. 10:13; Acts 20:21; l Peter 1:5.
6. The Trinity: We believe and confess that God is a Triune God Expressed in three person: God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit. ll Cor. 13:14; Matt 28:20; Matt. 3:16,17; Gen. 1:26.
7. Satan: We believe and confess that Satan is a real person, a fallen angelic being, who through rebellion lost his position in heaven. We recognize this foe and his kingdom of darkness; we are in a spiritual battle which demands our continual standing in Christ, our power. l Pet. 5:8; Eph. 6:10-18; ll Cor. 10:3-5; Ezk. 28:13-17.
8. The Second Coming Of Christ: We believe and confess in a physical return of Jesus Christ to the earth. He shall come in like manner as he left. We should look to, hope for, and expect at any time the coming of the Lord. This hope will cause God’s people to purify themselves. John 14:1-3; Acts 1:9-11; l John 3:3.
9. The Kingdom Of God: We believe and confess that the kingdom of God, or Christ, is a spiritual kingdom and stands in contrast to the kingdoms of the world. In the Sermon on the Mount, Christ presented a higher standard of holiness for his kingdom. Citizenship in the kingdom, therefore:
a. Prevents participation in the affairs of state, serving in armed forces, and belonging to state regulated churches. Matt 6:33; ll Cor. 6:14-18; ll Cor. 10:3-4
b. Further separates us from the course of this world in affection, occupation, and organizational yokes, and affiliations. Matt 6:19-21, 24; Rom. 12:1-2; Col. 3:1-3
c. Enjoins returning good for evil, praying for persecutors, feeding and clothing the needy, and doing good to all men, including enemies. Matt. 5:38-48; Rom. 12:14-21; l Thess. 5:15.
d. Forbids speaking evil of ANYONE, resisting evil or taking vengeance, suing at the law, or in any way demanding personal rights. Matt. 5:39-40; John 18:36; l Cor. 6:1-8; Titus 3:2; l Peter 2:18-20.
e. Requires the non-swearing oaths, “Yea, Yea and Nay, Nay” honestly, and absence of idle words in speech. Matt. 5:33-37; Matt. 12:35-37; James 5:12.
f. Enjoins an explicit trust in God for material and spiritual maintenance. Trusting in the arm of flesh or human securities is a violation of faith in Divine preservation. Matt. 6:25-34; Matt. 10:29-31; Luke 12:32-33; Phil. 4:6-19; l Peter 5:7.
10. Discipleship: We believe and confess that discipleship is a clear characteristic of all true Christians. A disciple willingly bears the cross and denies himself, forsaking all things that hinder his fellowship with God. This crucifixion of the flesh is the operation of God by faith; a moment by moment surrender of the Will, to God. Luke 14:22, Luke 14:26-27; Rom. 6:11-16; Gal. 2:20-21; Col. 2:10-12; Gal. 5:24.
11. Evangelism: We believe and confess that the Great Commission given by Christ to His Disciple (Matt. 28:19-20) was a commission of all Christians to go and tell the good news of salvation to a lost and dying world. Brothers and sisters alike are responsible to share Christ as opportunity arises in daily living. Psalms 126:6; Mark 16:15; Acts 8:4; Acts 5:42.
12. Christian Appearance: We believe and confess that God’s People should regulate their appearance by clear scriptural principals.
a. Gospel order and purity requires neatness and cleanliness. Matt. 6:17; l Thess. 4:7; ; Tim. 2:9-10; Rev. 19:8.
b. Clothing and personal appearance shall maintain distinction between the sexes. Mark 10:6; l Cor. 6:9; l Cor. 11:4-5, 14-15.
c. Brethren and sisters wear modest apparel which covers and conceals the body (l Tim. 2:8-9). Notice how God clothes the body (Mark 16:5; Rev. 1:13). The sisters wear a double layered garment as the greek word “catastola” describes. Thus Modesty without question is the expression.
d. Clothing shall exemplify gospel simplicity and be gree of all evidence of pride, display or adornment. ll Cor. 1:12; l Peter 3:3; l John 2:16.
e. The Bible forbids the wearing of gold, pearls or costly array. l Tim. 2:9. Notice the attire of the Babylonish harlot. Rev. 17:4. See also the rich men’s apparel. Luke 16:19.
f. Further, the bible forbids following the changing fashions of the world. Rom 12:2; l Thess. 5:22; Titus 2:11-12; l Peter 1:14. g. Brethren are to be free from the shame of long hair. Sisters will not cut their hair. They cover their hair with a distinctive Christian veil. l Cor. 11:14-15.
13. The Christian Experience: We believe and confess that the height of Christian experience is attained, maintained and expressed in a life of devotion to God which is a continual pressing of the heart in love and fellowship with God. Prayer, a study of the Word, meditations, fastings, and the singing from the heart are expressions of devotion to God We believe then that this heart that is lifted up to God will Gradually and consistently bring forth the holy actions commanded in the scriptures. John 4:23-24; l Cor. 3:18; Gal. 5:22-23; Rom. 8:4.
14. The Christian Home: We believe and confess the importance of the godly home in the promotion of moral purity and faith. It is haven of mutual love and godliness, a shelter from the corruption of society. The home should be ordered according to the dictates of Eph.5 and Col. 3. We believe that godly parents who see their responsibility will rear faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. Titus 1:6; ll Tim. 3:14-15. Fathers must assume final responsibility for the direction of worship, for decisions and the discipline of the children. l Cor. 11:3; l Tim. 3:4; Eph. 6:4
Wives are submissive and subordinate, demonstrating their chaste conversation (behavior) of godliness. Eph.5:22; l Tim.5:13-14; l Peter 3:1-6.
Children are to be in subjection and obedient to their parents with all gravity. Eph. 6:1; l Tim. 3:4-5
15. The Church: We Believe and confess that the church is the Body of Christ, both local and worldwide. l Cor. 12:27; Eph. 1:22-23. The church consists of those persons from all nations who are redeemed by the blood of Christ and who have responded to the call of salvation with the obedience of faith. John 3:16; Acts 10:34-35; Rom. 10:13: Rev. 5:9; Acts 20:28. We also recognize a great apostasy in the last days. Not all who name the name of Jesus are true Christians. Only those who manifest true scriptural fruit. (see 1 John). We stand in opposition to the liberal theology that heads to worldliness and the traditional theology that heads to formalism and deadness. l Tim. 3:1-5
16. Christian Ordinances: We believe and confess that ordinances were instituted by divine authority for the purpose of expressing heavenly thoughts and meanings, given to draw our attention toward spiritual pictures of divine truth.
These ordinances are as follows.
a. Baptism. Rom. 6; Matt. 28:19; l Peter 3:21; l Cor. 11:12.
b. Communion. l Cor. 11:23-26.
c. Feet Washing. John 13:14-16.
d. The devotional covering. l Cor. 11: 2-16.
e. The holy kiss. Rom. 16:16; l Peter 5:14.
f. Anointing with oil. James 5:14-15
17. Marriage: We believe and confess that marriage is an institution ordained of God. It was set apart, or sanctified, in the creation. It was set forth by God for the propagation of the human race, for the purity of the human family, and for the bringing up of godly children. Gen. 1:14; Gen. 2:24; Heb. 13:4.
God recognizes all first marriages where vows have been made and the marriage consummated. In God’s eyes only death can break the marriage covenant.
We further believe the God forbids divorce or marriages with divorced persons having former companions still living. Marriage by or with such persons is the forming of an adulterous relationship. We admonish all to a scriptural meditation on this subject. Matt. 19:8-9; Mark 10:11-12; Rom. 7:2-3; l Cor. 7:39.
18. The Brotherhood: We believe and confess that the church is a brotherhood, submitting one to another in the fear of God. Each individual is set for the edification of the whole.
a. Brethren address each other privately concerning inconsistencies or error that they may observe in one another. Heb.3:13; ll Tim. 3:16; l Peter 2:17; l Peter 5:5; John 13.
b. All property is held in stewardship as God’s. There is a conscious effort made to discern the needs of others and to share to the point of an equality of living standard. The Bible warns of the danger of accumulation riches and therefore commands distribution according to ability. Matt. 5:42; Matt. 6:19-21; Luke 12:33; Acts 20:35; Rom. 15:26; l Cor. 16:1-3; ll Cor. 8:11-15; l Tim. 6:17-19; Heb. 13:16; l John 3:16-17.
c. Christian love is a servant. It seeks opportunities to help all men and to inspire courage and faith in others. Matt. 20:26-28; Luke 10:25-37; Gal. 6:10
d. The brothers sense their responsibility to the hungry and the naked. Matt. 25:35-36; Luke 3:11; Luke 14:13-14; Luke 16:20-21; Gal. 2:10.
e. Love guards its speech. The Brethren do not gossip, slander or even speak ill of one another or any other person. l Tim. 5:13; Titus 1:10; Titus 2:8; Titus 3:2; James 4:11; l Peter 2:1; l Peter 3: 10.
f. Brethren desire to honor others, esteem others before themselves, and live in humble submission. They readily forgive and rejoice in the blessings of others. Rom. 12:10; l Cor.13:4-7; Col. 3:12-13; Phil. 2:1-4. This Brotherhood is maintained on the human level in a community of love. Act. 4:32. Herein lies the strongest appeal of truth to the world. John 13:34-35
19. Gifts Of The Holy Spirit: We confess the nine gifts of the Holy Spirit found in l Cor. 12 to be valid through the new Testament dispensation.
20. Divination and Witchcraft Renounced: Brethren are free from all types of Witchcraft, Sorcery, Divining and other Occultic and New Age practices. These practices shall be renounced in the name of Jesus to maintain church purity. Eph. 5:25-27; Gal. 5:19-21.