|
|
 |
|
Beliefs are not worth much unless they are translated into actions. Based on what the Bible teaches, we feel very strongly about the following seven practices:
- The Bible is our sole authority:
"The whole Bible was given to us by inspiration from God and is useful to teach us what is true
and make us realize what is wrong in our lives; it straightens us out and helps us to do what is right." 2 Timothy 3:16 (LB)
Since God's Word is the only completely reliable and truthful authority, we accept the Bible as our manual for living. Our first question when faced with a decision is "What does the Bible say?" We practice daily Bible reading, Bible study, and Bible memorization. The Bible is the basis for all we believe.
- Spirit-filled living:
(Jesus said) "I am the vine, you are the branches. If you abide in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit;
but apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5
"And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit." Ephesians 5:18
We believe the only way possible to live the Christian life is by God's power within us.
So we seek to practice a daily dependence on God's Spirit to enable us to do His will.
- The autonomy of each local church:
"Christ is the head of His Body, the church..."
Colossians 1:18 (GN)
Christ is the recognized head of our church, not any person, group, or religious organization.
While recognizing the value of associating and cooperating with other groups of Christians,
we believe every local church should be self- governing and independent from any denominational control.
- The priesthood of every believer:
"For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus." 1 Timothy 2:5
"But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession,
that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." 1 Peter 2:9
The Bible teaches that every Christian is called to "full time"
Christian service, regardless of his or her vocation. We
practice the truth that every believer is a minister by encouraging every member to
find a place of service and ministry in the church. Every believer has direct access
to God through Jesus Christ, His Word, and His Spirit.
- Giving financially to the church according to the tithe in scripture:
"Thus all the tithe of the land, of the seed of the land or of the fruit of the tree, is the Lord's; it is holy to the Lord." Leviticus 27:30
At EFCHB we practice tithing for the support of Christ's Body, the church, as God commands.
We recognize that giving at least 10% of our income as a starting point is the biblical standard of
giving as seen in the Old Testament.
Although it is not the whole teaching on this subject.
- Baptism:
"For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ..." Colossians 2:12 (GN)
We practice baptism by immersion in water — We believe this is the way it was done in Scripture and fulfills the meaning of the word baptidzo.
- Telling others about Christ:
"Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have." 1 Peter 3:15
"But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem,
and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth. "Acts 1:8
"And He said to them, 'Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.'" Mark 16:15
It is the responsibility of every Christian to share the Good News with those whom God brings us into contact. We
practice personal sharing about Christ and inviting friends to church.
Evangelism is a church family effort that calls us to be a team.
|
|
