Core Beliefs
Below are the core beliefs of Church of The Wonderful News, based on the foundational truths taught in the Bible. All of our teaching and ministry are rooted in and flow from these biblical doctrines.
1. HOLY SCRIPTURE
We believe and teach that:
The 66 canonical books of the Bible constitute the equally inspired Word of God in all its parts and are such regardless of our attitude toward them. These books alone are the supreme and only infallible revelation of God concerning Himself, the spiritual and material world (including humanity), and they serve as the only infallible and sufficient rule for faith, conduct, and the complete order of the Church. The supreme authority of Scripture is derived not from the Church or tradition, but from God Himself.
Being fully and verbally inspired in the original manuscripts, the Bible is completely inerrant and without error. Through the Holy Spirit, God used the individual characteristics of the human authors and their cultural-historical context to give humanity a timeless divine revelation that is equally applicable to every generation. He has preserved this revelation in copies and translations of the original texts, which are the Word of God insofar as they faithfully reflect the original.
The nature of Scripture requires a literal, grammatical-historical interpretation under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Psalm 19:7–8; Psalm 119:105; Matthew 24:35; Acts 24:14; 1 Peter 1:23; 2 Peter 1:19–21; 1 Corinthians 2:13; Galatians 1:11–12; Galatians 3:8; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; 2 Timothy 3:16–17; Hebrews 1:1–2.
The 66 canonical books of the Bible constitute the equally inspired Word of God in all its parts and are such regardless of our attitude toward them. These books alone are the supreme and only infallible revelation of God concerning Himself, the spiritual and material world (including humanity), and they serve as the only infallible and sufficient rule for faith, conduct, and the complete order of the Church. The supreme authority of Scripture is derived not from the Church or tradition, but from God Himself.
Being fully and verbally inspired in the original manuscripts, the Bible is completely inerrant and without error. Through the Holy Spirit, God used the individual characteristics of the human authors and their cultural-historical context to give humanity a timeless divine revelation that is equally applicable to every generation. He has preserved this revelation in copies and translations of the original texts, which are the Word of God insofar as they faithfully reflect the original.
The nature of Scripture requires a literal, grammatical-historical interpretation under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Psalm 19:7–8; Psalm 119:105; Matthew 24:35; Acts 24:14; 1 Peter 1:23; 2 Peter 1:19–21; 1 Corinthians 2:13; Galatians 1:11–12; Galatians 3:8; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; 2 Timothy 3:16–17; Hebrews 1:1–2.
2. GOD
We believe and teach that:
Known unto God are all His works from eternity.
Acts 15:18
2.1. God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
There is only one living, true, and eternal God, the Creator of all things visible and invisible, who reveals Himself as the Trinity — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. These three persons (hypostases) are perfect, eternal, equal, and indivisible in their essence and attributes: the Father is God, the Son is God, and the Holy Spirit is God — yet not three Gods, but one God.
Deuteronomy 6:4; Nehemiah 9:6; Psalm 19:1; Isaiah 40:22, 25–26, 28; Romans 1:20; 1 Corinthians 8:4, 6; 1 Timothy 2:5; Revelation 4:11.
2.2. God the Father
God the Father was neither created, made, nor begotten.
He is an infinite, incomprehensible, spiritual, self-existent, and eternal Person, possessing omnipresence, omniscience, omnipotence (over all creation), and immutability. He is absolutely independent and holy, perfectly combining righteousness and absolute justice with goodness, love, and mercy.
Job 38–42; Isaiah 46:10; Jeremiah 23:18, 20; Psalm 33:11; Matthew 3:17; 1 John 4:8–10; Ephesians 2:4; Ephesians 4:6.
2.3. God the Son
God the Son was not created or made by the one God, but eternally begotten.
He possesses all divine attributes and qualities. By taking on human nature, He assumed the form of a servant without losing His divine essence. He became true man, in whom deity and humanity were united without confusion and without division. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born in human flesh of the virgin Mary. He lived a completely sinless and perfect life, willingly died on the cross for the sins of all people, bodily rose from the dead, and ascended to heaven, where He is seated at the right hand of the Father. He is the only Mediator between God and man and has been given authority to execute final judgment over all creation.
Matthew 1:20–23; Luke 1:27–35; John 1:14; 1 John 5:20; Romans 8:3; Philippians 2:7; Hebrews 1:1–5, 8; Hebrews 7:26.
2.4. God the Holy Spirit
God the Holy Spirit was neither created, made, nor begotten by the Father, but proceeds from Him.
He possesses all the attributes of personality and deity, including intellect, emotions, will, eternity, omnipresence, omniscience, omnipotence, and truth. He is active in God’s creation, incarnation, redemption, and the regeneration of spiritually dead people. He builds the Church, having come from the Father through Jesus Christ; He convicts the world, glorifies Christ, and transforms believers, in whom He dwells from the moment they personally receive the redemption accomplished by Jesus Christ at Calvary.
Isaiah 11:2; John 16:5–11; Acts 5:3–4; 1 Peter 1:2; Romans 8:27; 1 Corinthians 2:10–11; Ephesians 2:19–22; Ephesians 4:30.
2.5. Knowledge of God
A person can come to know God only through Holy Scripture under the work of the Holy Spirit.
John 14:26; John 20:31; Romans 10:17; 2 Peter 1:19–21; 1 Corinthians 1:21; 1 Corinthians 2:10.
Known unto God are all His works from eternity.
Acts 15:18
2.1. God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
There is only one living, true, and eternal God, the Creator of all things visible and invisible, who reveals Himself as the Trinity — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. These three persons (hypostases) are perfect, eternal, equal, and indivisible in their essence and attributes: the Father is God, the Son is God, and the Holy Spirit is God — yet not three Gods, but one God.
Deuteronomy 6:4; Nehemiah 9:6; Psalm 19:1; Isaiah 40:22, 25–26, 28; Romans 1:20; 1 Corinthians 8:4, 6; 1 Timothy 2:5; Revelation 4:11.
2.2. God the Father
God the Father was neither created, made, nor begotten.
He is an infinite, incomprehensible, spiritual, self-existent, and eternal Person, possessing omnipresence, omniscience, omnipotence (over all creation), and immutability. He is absolutely independent and holy, perfectly combining righteousness and absolute justice with goodness, love, and mercy.
Job 38–42; Isaiah 46:10; Jeremiah 23:18, 20; Psalm 33:11; Matthew 3:17; 1 John 4:8–10; Ephesians 2:4; Ephesians 4:6.
2.3. God the Son
God the Son was not created or made by the one God, but eternally begotten.
He possesses all divine attributes and qualities. By taking on human nature, He assumed the form of a servant without losing His divine essence. He became true man, in whom deity and humanity were united without confusion and without division. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born in human flesh of the virgin Mary. He lived a completely sinless and perfect life, willingly died on the cross for the sins of all people, bodily rose from the dead, and ascended to heaven, where He is seated at the right hand of the Father. He is the only Mediator between God and man and has been given authority to execute final judgment over all creation.
Matthew 1:20–23; Luke 1:27–35; John 1:14; 1 John 5:20; Romans 8:3; Philippians 2:7; Hebrews 1:1–5, 8; Hebrews 7:26.
2.4. God the Holy Spirit
God the Holy Spirit was neither created, made, nor begotten by the Father, but proceeds from Him.
He possesses all the attributes of personality and deity, including intellect, emotions, will, eternity, omnipresence, omniscience, omnipotence, and truth. He is active in God’s creation, incarnation, redemption, and the regeneration of spiritually dead people. He builds the Church, having come from the Father through Jesus Christ; He convicts the world, glorifies Christ, and transforms believers, in whom He dwells from the moment they personally receive the redemption accomplished by Jesus Christ at Calvary.
Isaiah 11:2; John 16:5–11; Acts 5:3–4; 1 Peter 1:2; Romans 8:27; 1 Corinthians 2:10–11; Ephesians 2:19–22; Ephesians 4:30.
2.5. Knowledge of God
A person can come to know God only through Holy Scripture under the work of the Holy Spirit.
John 14:26; John 20:31; Romans 10:17; 2 Peter 1:19–21; 1 Corinthians 1:21; 1 Corinthians 2:10.
3. MAN: CREATION AND THE FALL INTO SIN
We believe and teach that:
3.1. The Creation of Man
God created man sinless, in His own image — righteous, holy, and innocent — capable of glorifying God and living in blessed fellowship with Him.
Genesis 1:27, 31; Genesis 5:1; Genesis 9:6; Ecclesiastes 7:29; James 3:9.
3.2. The Fall of Man
Man, being triune in nature (spirit, soul, and body), through the deception of Satan and by his own free will, sinned by violating God’s command. As a result of this disobedience, man fell away from God, died spiritually, and became subject to physical death.
Through man, sin — which is disobedience to God and moral evil — entered the world. Since all humanity descended from Adam, Adam’s sinful nature was passed on to all people throughout all generations, with the exception of Jesus Christ. Therefore, all people are sinners by nature, by choice, and by action. Having been corrupted by sin and becoming children of wrath, they are, by divine judgment, subject to the penalty of sin — namely spiritual, physical, and eternal death.
Genesis 2:17; Genesis 3:17; Romans 5:12–18; Romans 6:23; Ephesians 4:17–18; 1 Thessalonians 5:23.
3.1. The Creation of Man
God created man sinless, in His own image — righteous, holy, and innocent — capable of glorifying God and living in blessed fellowship with Him.
Genesis 1:27, 31; Genesis 5:1; Genesis 9:6; Ecclesiastes 7:29; James 3:9.
3.2. The Fall of Man
Man, being triune in nature (spirit, soul, and body), through the deception of Satan and by his own free will, sinned by violating God’s command. As a result of this disobedience, man fell away from God, died spiritually, and became subject to physical death.
Through man, sin — which is disobedience to God and moral evil — entered the world. Since all humanity descended from Adam, Adam’s sinful nature was passed on to all people throughout all generations, with the exception of Jesus Christ. Therefore, all people are sinners by nature, by choice, and by action. Having been corrupted by sin and becoming children of wrath, they are, by divine judgment, subject to the penalty of sin — namely spiritual, physical, and eternal death.
Genesis 2:17; Genesis 3:17; Romans 5:12–18; Romans 6:23; Ephesians 4:17–18; 1 Thessalonians 5:23.
4. SALVATION
We believe and teach that:
4.1. Salvation by Grace
Salvation is accomplished by God through grace on the basis of the redemption accomplished by Christ, and not on the basis of human works or merit. In salvation, both the divine and the human aspects are recognized.
1 Peter 1:3; Ephesians 2:8–9; 1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 9:28.
4.2. The Divine and Human Aspects of Salvation
The divine aspect consists in the fact that from eternity God appointed His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, as the atoning sacrifice for the sins of all people.
The human aspect consists in a person personally and willingly accepting the redemptive sacrifice of Jesus Christ through repentance. The repentant person receives forgiveness of all sins, deliverance from death, the devil, and hell, justification, eternal righteousness, and everlasting life.
The process of salvation occurs when a person, under the influence of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God, awakens from the sleep of sin, recognizes his guilt and sinfulness, and sincerely repents before God. By faith — and by faith alone — in Jesus Christ as the only Savior, a person receives forgiveness of sins and is born of the Holy Spirit, through whom he receives the inner testimony that he is a child of God and an heir of eternal life.
Jeremiah 31:18–19; Luke 18:13; John 1:12; Romans 2:4; 2 Corinthians 7:10; 1 Timothy 1:15.
4.3. Regeneration and Sanctification
True regeneration, as a birth through the Word of God by the Holy Spirit, is demonstrated through worthy fruits of repentance in the form of a renewed heart and righteous conduct. Good works, therefore, are the result and fruit of regeneration, which is the creation of a new spiritual nature within a person and the awakening of the human spirit that was dead because of sin.
Having received salvation through repentance by grace apart from works, a person becomes holy and enters the path of sanctification, which is an essential condition for meeting the Lord in eternity.
1 Peter 4:2–3; Ephesians 5:8; 2 Timothy 3:17; Philippians 3:7–9; Hebrews 12:14; Revelation 22:11.
4.4. Election and Human Responsibility
This understanding of salvation, conditioned by human free will and personal choice, is based on the concept of election according to God’s foreknowledge. Salvation was prepared for all people without exception, and the blood of Christ was shed for all. However, election unto salvation, while being a sovereign act of God, is directed toward those whom God foreknew would respond to His calling.
Thus, the basis of election and predestination, as the practical realization of salvation, is the response of a person to God’s revelation, foreknown by God from eternity.
This understanding of God’s sovereign yet non-arbitrary election emphasizes the justice of God, who, though not obligated to save everyone, in His love placed all people in an equal position — even those whom He already knew would reject salvation. In this way, He provided everyone with the opportunity to be saved.
At the same time, this understanding highlights both the responsibility of the sinner regarding salvation and the responsibility of the Church in missionary ministry.
John 1:11–13; John 3:16–17; Romans 5:18–19; Romans 8:29; 2 Corinthians 5:19–21; Ephesians 1:13; Ephesians 2:1–9; 1 Timothy 1:15.
4.5. Assurance, Obedience, and Falling Away
A person who believes in Christ and willingly submits his will to Him gives God authority over his life and thereby limits his own freedom in proportion to his submission to Christ. In such a life, God’s predestination is manifested more frequently, firmly, and broadly than in the life of an unbeliever.
By submitting to the will of God, the believer receives the joy of salvation and assurance of eternal security in God, meaning that no external force can separate him from saving grace. However, deliberate sin, conscious disobedience to God’s will, continual disregard of divine warnings, and unwillingness to abide in Christ may lead to a person being rejected by God, who respects human free will, after repeated warnings.
Such a person suffers shipwreck in faith and falls away from saving grace if he continually crucifies the Son of God within himself and treats Him with contempt. Yet those who fear God and seek eternity may rejoice in having firm assurance of eternal salvation.
Ezekiel 33:11–16; John 10:27–29; 1 Peter 4:4–5; Romans 1:28; Romans 5:1–2, 5; Galatians 5:4–5; Ephesians 4:22–24; 1 Timothy 1:19; Revelation 3:5, 15–16, 19.
4.1. Salvation by Grace
Salvation is accomplished by God through grace on the basis of the redemption accomplished by Christ, and not on the basis of human works or merit. In salvation, both the divine and the human aspects are recognized.
1 Peter 1:3; Ephesians 2:8–9; 1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 9:28.
4.2. The Divine and Human Aspects of Salvation
The divine aspect consists in the fact that from eternity God appointed His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, as the atoning sacrifice for the sins of all people.
The human aspect consists in a person personally and willingly accepting the redemptive sacrifice of Jesus Christ through repentance. The repentant person receives forgiveness of all sins, deliverance from death, the devil, and hell, justification, eternal righteousness, and everlasting life.
The process of salvation occurs when a person, under the influence of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God, awakens from the sleep of sin, recognizes his guilt and sinfulness, and sincerely repents before God. By faith — and by faith alone — in Jesus Christ as the only Savior, a person receives forgiveness of sins and is born of the Holy Spirit, through whom he receives the inner testimony that he is a child of God and an heir of eternal life.
Jeremiah 31:18–19; Luke 18:13; John 1:12; Romans 2:4; 2 Corinthians 7:10; 1 Timothy 1:15.
4.3. Regeneration and Sanctification
True regeneration, as a birth through the Word of God by the Holy Spirit, is demonstrated through worthy fruits of repentance in the form of a renewed heart and righteous conduct. Good works, therefore, are the result and fruit of regeneration, which is the creation of a new spiritual nature within a person and the awakening of the human spirit that was dead because of sin.
Having received salvation through repentance by grace apart from works, a person becomes holy and enters the path of sanctification, which is an essential condition for meeting the Lord in eternity.
1 Peter 4:2–3; Ephesians 5:8; 2 Timothy 3:17; Philippians 3:7–9; Hebrews 12:14; Revelation 22:11.
4.4. Election and Human Responsibility
This understanding of salvation, conditioned by human free will and personal choice, is based on the concept of election according to God’s foreknowledge. Salvation was prepared for all people without exception, and the blood of Christ was shed for all. However, election unto salvation, while being a sovereign act of God, is directed toward those whom God foreknew would respond to His calling.
Thus, the basis of election and predestination, as the practical realization of salvation, is the response of a person to God’s revelation, foreknown by God from eternity.
This understanding of God’s sovereign yet non-arbitrary election emphasizes the justice of God, who, though not obligated to save everyone, in His love placed all people in an equal position — even those whom He already knew would reject salvation. In this way, He provided everyone with the opportunity to be saved.
At the same time, this understanding highlights both the responsibility of the sinner regarding salvation and the responsibility of the Church in missionary ministry.
John 1:11–13; John 3:16–17; Romans 5:18–19; Romans 8:29; 2 Corinthians 5:19–21; Ephesians 1:13; Ephesians 2:1–9; 1 Timothy 1:15.
4.5. Assurance, Obedience, and Falling Away
A person who believes in Christ and willingly submits his will to Him gives God authority over his life and thereby limits his own freedom in proportion to his submission to Christ. In such a life, God’s predestination is manifested more frequently, firmly, and broadly than in the life of an unbeliever.
By submitting to the will of God, the believer receives the joy of salvation and assurance of eternal security in God, meaning that no external force can separate him from saving grace. However, deliberate sin, conscious disobedience to God’s will, continual disregard of divine warnings, and unwillingness to abide in Christ may lead to a person being rejected by God, who respects human free will, after repeated warnings.
Such a person suffers shipwreck in faith and falls away from saving grace if he continually crucifies the Son of God within himself and treats Him with contempt. Yet those who fear God and seek eternity may rejoice in having firm assurance of eternal salvation.
Ezekiel 33:11–16; John 10:27–29; 1 Peter 4:4–5; Romans 1:28; Romans 5:1–2, 5; Galatians 5:4–5; Ephesians 4:22–24; 1 Timothy 1:19; Revelation 3:5, 15–16, 19.
5. CHurch
We believe and teach that:
5.1. The Universal Church
The universal Church is the assembly of God’s children, chosen by Jesus Christ from every nation and every age. The Church is not a continuation of Old Testament Israel, but is the Body of Christ (a living organism), His Bride, the house of God, the flock of the Good Shepherd, and the pillar and foundation of the truth. It was established on the Day of Pentecost.
Acts 20:28; 1 Corinthians 12:13–14, 27; Ephesians 4:11–16; 1 Timothy 3:15.
5.2. The Foundation of the Church
The primary principle of the Church is steadfast devotion to the teaching of the Apostles — Scripture, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer.
Acts 2:42; 1 Timothy 4:16.
5.3. Baptism into the Body of Christ
Christ, as the Head of the Church, through the Holy Spirit baptizes (immerses) the born-again believer into His Body — the Church — thereby joining him to the universal Church, the assembly of saints, and making him a participant in eternal salvation, adoption, sealing, and the immeasurable riches of grace in Christ.
Matthew 3:11; 1 Corinthians 12:12–14; Ephesians 1:22–23.
5.4. Spiritual Gifts
Every member of the Body of Christ receives a gift as a manifestation of the Spirit for the common good and for wise ministry. God distributes gifts according to His will. Scripture commands believers to test the spirits to determine whether they are from God and to guard against deception.
1 John 4:1; Romans 12:1; 1 Corinthians 12:11, 27–30.
5.5. Water Baptism
Holy Scripture teaches that water baptism is distinct from baptism in the Holy Spirit. The essence of water baptism, as a command of the Lord, is dying to sin and rising to a new life.
* Baptism is performed through a full, one-time immersion in water in the name of Jesus Christ or in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The act of immersion is performed by an ordained minister of the church.
Matthew 28:19; Romans 6:1–9.
* Through water baptism, which is administered only after repentance before God, a person joins the local church.
Acts 2:38, 41.
* A necessary condition for baptism after repentance is a clear understanding of the meaning of water baptism and a willingness to take this step. Those desiring baptism are instructed in the teachings of the Gospel according to Christ’s command. After baptism, their instruction continues in order to strengthen them in the faith.
Matthew 28:18–20; 1 Peter 3:21.
5.6. The Lord’s Supper
Those who have repented and been baptized in the name of Jesus Christ are called to participate in the Lord’s Supper, which is to be observed until Christ returns.
The Lord’s Supper includes prayer over the bread and its breaking, as well as prayer over the cup of wine. The bread and wine visibly represent the body and blood of Christ. Through participation in the Supper, believers partake in the body and blood of the Lord Jesus.
1 Corinthians 10:16; 1 Corinthians 11:23–26.
5.7. Preparation for the Lord’s Supper
Essential conditions for participating in the Lord’s Supper include reflecting on the sufferings of Christ and preparing oneself through prayer and reconciliation with those with whom there is conflict or misunderstanding. Refusing to participate in the Supper is considered disobedience to Christ’s command.
Matthew 5:23–24; 1 Corinthians 11:27–29.
5.8. The Purpose and Government of the Church
The purpose of the Church is transformation into the likeness of Christ and bearing witness of salvation to those who do not know God.
Each local church is autonomous and possesses full authority regarding its internal organization and relationships with other churches and outside organizations. Its decisions cannot be annulled by any church, governmental, political, or other organization.
For the organization and functioning of church life, including administrative, doctrinal, disciplinary, and pastoral matters, as well as care for members and conflict resolution, the local church elects from among itself elders, deacons, and leaders for specific ministries.
Elders and deacons are chosen only from among qualified men who meet the requirements of 1 Timothy 3:1–7 and Titus 1:6–9. They are ordained for these special ministries through the laying on of hands by previously ordained ministers. Ordination takes place in the presence of the local church and only after election by the church itself, not by individuals or groups.
Acts 6:3; 2 Corinthians 3:18.
* The ministry of women includes prayer, acts of service (such as helping prepare for ministry, caring for the sick, and greeting others), spiritual instruction, evangelism, and education, but does not include pastoral leadership or preaching authority in the church and is not accompanied by ordination.
Romans 16:1.
5.9. Unity and Holiness of the Church
The local church maintains biblical relationships with other churches that share the same confession of faith while preserving its autonomy.
The Lord Jesus Christ alone is the supreme Head of the Church. All members of the Church are equal before God and are priests unto the Most High God, though each has a spiritual gift (charisma) appointed by the Lord.
The Church grows and is built up through the participation of every member. All activity within the Body of Christ is directed exclusively toward edification.
Any form of occult practice — including superstition, witchcraft, spells, fortune-telling, astrology, and similar practices — is foreign to the Church.
Deuteronomy 18:10; Acts 8:9–11; Acts 16:16–19; Galatians 5:19–21; Ephesians 4:11–16.
5.1. The Universal Church
The universal Church is the assembly of God’s children, chosen by Jesus Christ from every nation and every age. The Church is not a continuation of Old Testament Israel, but is the Body of Christ (a living organism), His Bride, the house of God, the flock of the Good Shepherd, and the pillar and foundation of the truth. It was established on the Day of Pentecost.
Acts 20:28; 1 Corinthians 12:13–14, 27; Ephesians 4:11–16; 1 Timothy 3:15.
5.2. The Foundation of the Church
The primary principle of the Church is steadfast devotion to the teaching of the Apostles — Scripture, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer.
Acts 2:42; 1 Timothy 4:16.
5.3. Baptism into the Body of Christ
Christ, as the Head of the Church, through the Holy Spirit baptizes (immerses) the born-again believer into His Body — the Church — thereby joining him to the universal Church, the assembly of saints, and making him a participant in eternal salvation, adoption, sealing, and the immeasurable riches of grace in Christ.
Matthew 3:11; 1 Corinthians 12:12–14; Ephesians 1:22–23.
5.4. Spiritual Gifts
Every member of the Body of Christ receives a gift as a manifestation of the Spirit for the common good and for wise ministry. God distributes gifts according to His will. Scripture commands believers to test the spirits to determine whether they are from God and to guard against deception.
1 John 4:1; Romans 12:1; 1 Corinthians 12:11, 27–30.
5.5. Water Baptism
Holy Scripture teaches that water baptism is distinct from baptism in the Holy Spirit. The essence of water baptism, as a command of the Lord, is dying to sin and rising to a new life.
* Baptism is performed through a full, one-time immersion in water in the name of Jesus Christ or in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The act of immersion is performed by an ordained minister of the church.
Matthew 28:19; Romans 6:1–9.
* Through water baptism, which is administered only after repentance before God, a person joins the local church.
Acts 2:38, 41.
* A necessary condition for baptism after repentance is a clear understanding of the meaning of water baptism and a willingness to take this step. Those desiring baptism are instructed in the teachings of the Gospel according to Christ’s command. After baptism, their instruction continues in order to strengthen them in the faith.
Matthew 28:18–20; 1 Peter 3:21.
5.6. The Lord’s Supper
Those who have repented and been baptized in the name of Jesus Christ are called to participate in the Lord’s Supper, which is to be observed until Christ returns.
The Lord’s Supper includes prayer over the bread and its breaking, as well as prayer over the cup of wine. The bread and wine visibly represent the body and blood of Christ. Through participation in the Supper, believers partake in the body and blood of the Lord Jesus.
1 Corinthians 10:16; 1 Corinthians 11:23–26.
5.7. Preparation for the Lord’s Supper
Essential conditions for participating in the Lord’s Supper include reflecting on the sufferings of Christ and preparing oneself through prayer and reconciliation with those with whom there is conflict or misunderstanding. Refusing to participate in the Supper is considered disobedience to Christ’s command.
Matthew 5:23–24; 1 Corinthians 11:27–29.
5.8. The Purpose and Government of the Church
The purpose of the Church is transformation into the likeness of Christ and bearing witness of salvation to those who do not know God.
Each local church is autonomous and possesses full authority regarding its internal organization and relationships with other churches and outside organizations. Its decisions cannot be annulled by any church, governmental, political, or other organization.
For the organization and functioning of church life, including administrative, doctrinal, disciplinary, and pastoral matters, as well as care for members and conflict resolution, the local church elects from among itself elders, deacons, and leaders for specific ministries.
Elders and deacons are chosen only from among qualified men who meet the requirements of 1 Timothy 3:1–7 and Titus 1:6–9. They are ordained for these special ministries through the laying on of hands by previously ordained ministers. Ordination takes place in the presence of the local church and only after election by the church itself, not by individuals or groups.
Acts 6:3; 2 Corinthians 3:18.
* The ministry of women includes prayer, acts of service (such as helping prepare for ministry, caring for the sick, and greeting others), spiritual instruction, evangelism, and education, but does not include pastoral leadership or preaching authority in the church and is not accompanied by ordination.
Romans 16:1.
5.9. Unity and Holiness of the Church
The local church maintains biblical relationships with other churches that share the same confession of faith while preserving its autonomy.
The Lord Jesus Christ alone is the supreme Head of the Church. All members of the Church are equal before God and are priests unto the Most High God, though each has a spiritual gift (charisma) appointed by the Lord.
The Church grows and is built up through the participation of every member. All activity within the Body of Christ is directed exclusively toward edification.
Any form of occult practice — including superstition, witchcraft, spells, fortune-telling, astrology, and similar practices — is foreign to the Church.
Deuteronomy 18:10; Acts 8:9–11; Acts 16:16–19; Galatians 5:19–21; Ephesians 4:11–16.
6. BIBLICAL MARRIAGE AND FAMILY
We believe and teach that:
6.1. Marriage
Marriage was established by God as a union between one biological man and one biological woman for mutual support between husband and wife, for the multiplication of humanity, and for protection against sexual immorality.
Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:5–6; 1 Peter 3:1, 5, 7; Ephesians 5:21–23; Hebrews 13:4.
6.2. Faithfulness and Marriage in the Lord
We also believe that a man is to have only one wife, and a woman only one husband during the lifetime of both. We believe that Christians should marry only in the Lord — that is, with fellow believers.
1 Corinthians 7:39.
6.3. Wedding Ceremony, Divorce, and Remarriage
The marriage ceremony is conducted with the consent of the parents and with the blessing of the church through prayer and the laying on of hands by a church minister (provided premarital purity has been maintained).
Marriage, being both a divine and civil institution, must receive a twofold confirmation. The first is through the Word of God and prayer in the local church; the second is according to the laws of the country.
We recognize adultery as the only biblical ground for divorce. We believe that divorce and remarriage of the innocent party may take place according to the Word of God, while also complying with civil law. Every case involving divorce and remarriage is considered individually by the church council.
Matthew 5:32; Matthew 19:9; 1 Corinthians 7:10–11.
6.4. The Family
The family forms a home church in which the husband, submitted to Christ, is the head, and the wife submits to her husband as the Church submits to Christ.
The Lord reveals to parents His will regarding the number of children He intends for them to have. Children are given by God as a special blessing. Any form of abortion (the destruction of unborn life) is regarded by God as murder and is considered sin.
Psalm 127:3; Psalm 139:13–16; Job 3:2–3; Ephesians 5:21–33.
6.5. Parenting and the Raising of Children
We also believe that God has entrusted parents with the responsibility for the full and proper upbringing of their children. In cases of repeated disobedience, parents may discipline their children for correction according to Holy Scripture.
Proverbs 22:6; Proverbs 13:24; Proverbs 19:18; 2 Corinthians 12:14; Ephesians 6:1–4; Colossians 3:20–21; 1 Timothy 3:4; 1 Timothy 5:9–10; Titus 1:6.
6.1. Marriage
Marriage was established by God as a union between one biological man and one biological woman for mutual support between husband and wife, for the multiplication of humanity, and for protection against sexual immorality.
Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:5–6; 1 Peter 3:1, 5, 7; Ephesians 5:21–23; Hebrews 13:4.
6.2. Faithfulness and Marriage in the Lord
We also believe that a man is to have only one wife, and a woman only one husband during the lifetime of both. We believe that Christians should marry only in the Lord — that is, with fellow believers.
1 Corinthians 7:39.
6.3. Wedding Ceremony, Divorce, and Remarriage
The marriage ceremony is conducted with the consent of the parents and with the blessing of the church through prayer and the laying on of hands by a church minister (provided premarital purity has been maintained).
Marriage, being both a divine and civil institution, must receive a twofold confirmation. The first is through the Word of God and prayer in the local church; the second is according to the laws of the country.
We recognize adultery as the only biblical ground for divorce. We believe that divorce and remarriage of the innocent party may take place according to the Word of God, while also complying with civil law. Every case involving divorce and remarriage is considered individually by the church council.
Matthew 5:32; Matthew 19:9; 1 Corinthians 7:10–11.
6.4. The Family
The family forms a home church in which the husband, submitted to Christ, is the head, and the wife submits to her husband as the Church submits to Christ.
The Lord reveals to parents His will regarding the number of children He intends for them to have. Children are given by God as a special blessing. Any form of abortion (the destruction of unborn life) is regarded by God as murder and is considered sin.
Psalm 127:3; Psalm 139:13–16; Job 3:2–3; Ephesians 5:21–33.
6.5. Parenting and the Raising of Children
We also believe that God has entrusted parents with the responsibility for the full and proper upbringing of their children. In cases of repeated disobedience, parents may discipline their children for correction according to Holy Scripture.
Proverbs 22:6; Proverbs 13:24; Proverbs 19:18; 2 Corinthians 12:14; Ephesians 6:1–4; Colossians 3:20–21; 1 Timothy 3:4; 1 Timothy 5:9–10; Titus 1:6.
7. THE SPIRITUAL REALM AND FUTURE EVENTS
We believe and teach that:
7.1. The Spiritual Realm
Eternity is beyond the full comprehension of the limited human mind, and the spiritual realm is inhabited by both evil and holy beings, whose nature, form, and characteristics can only be known to the extent that they are revealed in Holy Scripture.
7.2. Angels and Fallen Spirits
Holy angels, in all their diversity, were created as ministering spirits and therefore are not to be worshiped. Angels do not possess physical bodies, though they may appear in visible form. They are not omnipresent.
Hebrews 1:14.
* Fallen angels, together with their leader and the author of sin — Satan — are also created beings, limited in space and active only until the time appointed by God and under His permissive authority. Afterward, they will be bound and cast into the lake of fire.
Revelation 20:10; Revelation 22:8–9; Matthew 25:41.
7.3. Death, Resurrection, and Eternal Destiny
In the physical world, human death is the separation of the soul from the body, not the disappearance of the person or a state of nonexistence. A person’s eternal destiny cannot be changed after physical death.
All people without exception — both the righteous and the wicked — will be bodily resurrected, each in their own time. For the saved, the soul will be reunited with the body unto eternal life and blessedness. For the unsaved, it will be unto eternal death and torment after the judgment before the Great White Throne.
Holy Scripture teaches that the eternal condition following the resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous is unchangeable.
Revelation 20:5–6; Matthew 25:46; Luke 16:25–26; John 5:24–25; Acts 24:15.
7.4. The Second Coming of Christ
Christ will come again to rapture His Church through the resurrection of those who have physically died in Him and the instant transformation of those believers who remain alive and faithful to Him.
After this, He will visibly return to the earth with His saints and His angels to judge the living and establish His Messianic Kingdom on earth for one thousand years.
This kingdom will be preceded by a period of Great Tribulation, which will end with the defeat of the Antichrist and the False Prophet and the removal of Satan from the world.
Matthew 24:21–22, 30–31; Matthew 25:31; 1 Corinthians 15:51–52; 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17; Revelation 1:7; Revelation 20:1–2.
7.5. The Eternal Kingdom
The thousand-year reign of the Messiah will conclude with the temporary release of Satan, a final rebellion against Christ, and the final judgment. After this will come the complete and eternal reign of Christ and His Church in the endless ages of eternity, culminating in the mysterious fulfillment that “God may be all in all.”
1 Corinthians 15:28; Revelation 20:3, 7.
7.1. The Spiritual Realm
Eternity is beyond the full comprehension of the limited human mind, and the spiritual realm is inhabited by both evil and holy beings, whose nature, form, and characteristics can only be known to the extent that they are revealed in Holy Scripture.
7.2. Angels and Fallen Spirits
Holy angels, in all their diversity, were created as ministering spirits and therefore are not to be worshiped. Angels do not possess physical bodies, though they may appear in visible form. They are not omnipresent.
Hebrews 1:14.
* Fallen angels, together with their leader and the author of sin — Satan — are also created beings, limited in space and active only until the time appointed by God and under His permissive authority. Afterward, they will be bound and cast into the lake of fire.
Revelation 20:10; Revelation 22:8–9; Matthew 25:41.
7.3. Death, Resurrection, and Eternal Destiny
In the physical world, human death is the separation of the soul from the body, not the disappearance of the person or a state of nonexistence. A person’s eternal destiny cannot be changed after physical death.
All people without exception — both the righteous and the wicked — will be bodily resurrected, each in their own time. For the saved, the soul will be reunited with the body unto eternal life and blessedness. For the unsaved, it will be unto eternal death and torment after the judgment before the Great White Throne.
Holy Scripture teaches that the eternal condition following the resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous is unchangeable.
Revelation 20:5–6; Matthew 25:46; Luke 16:25–26; John 5:24–25; Acts 24:15.
7.4. The Second Coming of Christ
Christ will come again to rapture His Church through the resurrection of those who have physically died in Him and the instant transformation of those believers who remain alive and faithful to Him.
After this, He will visibly return to the earth with His saints and His angels to judge the living and establish His Messianic Kingdom on earth for one thousand years.
This kingdom will be preceded by a period of Great Tribulation, which will end with the defeat of the Antichrist and the False Prophet and the removal of Satan from the world.
Matthew 24:21–22, 30–31; Matthew 25:31; 1 Corinthians 15:51–52; 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17; Revelation 1:7; Revelation 20:1–2.
7.5. The Eternal Kingdom
The thousand-year reign of the Messiah will conclude with the temporary release of Satan, a final rebellion against Christ, and the final judgment. After this will come the complete and eternal reign of Christ and His Church in the endless ages of eternity, culminating in the mysterious fulfillment that “God may be all in all.”
1 Corinthians 15:28; Revelation 20:3, 7.
8. THE CHURCH AND SOCIETY
We believe and teach that:
8.1. Christian Conduct in Society
A Christian’s conduct in society and relationships with others should be guided by the teachings of Holy Scripture.
1 Peter 2:12–15; 2 Timothy 2:24; Titus 3:1–2.
8.2. Evangelism and the Gospel
Because of love for lost sinners, all Christians are responsible for evangelism and for spreading the Good News by whatever means are available to them and as directed by the Lord. This must be done by presenting the Gospel rather than forcing personal views upon others, with the goal of leading people to salvation.
The proclamation of the Gospel knows no boundaries: it should begin with orthodox Jews and extend to the most distant peoples, and it should be equally accessible to children able to discern right from wrong as well as to the elderly.
Acts 1:8; Romans 1:9, 14–16; 1 Corinthians 9:16.
8.3. Preparation for Ministry
Witnessing about Christ should be preceded by proper biblical preparation, following the example of Christ, who prepared His disciples before sending them into ministry.
Acts 2:41–42.
8.4. Government and Civil Authority
Because order must be maintained, governments are established by God. He grants them authority to protect the good and punish evil. Christians are obligated to obey the laws of their country in all matters except those concerning faith or laws that restrict the free practice of Christian duties.
At the same time, believers are called to support governing authorities through peaceful living and diligent prayer, thereby easing the burden of their difficult responsibilities.
Proverbs 24:21; Luke 20:25; 1 Peter 2:12–15; Romans 13:1–7; 1 Timothy 2:1–3; Titus 3:1.
8.5. Love for People and Nations
While Christians are called to love and serve their own people as circumstances and God may require, they must never use this love as justification for hatred toward another people or for promoting hatred, hostility, or bloodshed.
Deuteronomy 5:17; Matthew 5:44; Acts 10:34; Galatians 5:19–21; Colossians 3:15; Colossians 3:10–11.
8.6. Christian Holiness and Lifestyle
Based on Scripture and the need for separation from sin, the local church upholds the principle of abstaining from alcohol (including beer), smoking, profanity, and all forms of narcotics and substance abuse.
Proverbs 23:29–35; 1 Peter 4:3–4; Romans 12:1–2; Romans 13:13; Galatians 5:19–21; Ephesians 5:18.
8.6.1. Food
All foods are permitted except for the consumption of blood, as instructed in the New Testament.
Acts 21:25.
8.6.2. Modesty in Dress
In matters of clothing, the guiding principle is “as is proper for saints,” in accordance with cultural norms and the generally accepted standards of one’s social and age group.
1 Corinthians 6:19–20; 1 Timothy 2:9.
8.7. Christians and Public Life
Because there is a distinction between the things of Caesar and the things of God, participation in elected offices, political parties, and social organizations is permitted according to each person’s conscience, provided such activity does not contradict the principles of the Gospel.
However, such participation must remain a personal civic initiative and not be carried out on behalf of the church. It is considered inappropriate for ordained ministers, who are called to be fully devoted to Christ.
8.7.1. Work and Integrity
Work in business, commerce, and government is also a matter of personal conscience, but it must be conducted in a Christian manner, without violence or deceit.
“Render therefore to all their due.”
Luke 20:25; 1 Peter 2:12–15; Romans 13:1–7.
8.1. Christian Conduct in Society
A Christian’s conduct in society and relationships with others should be guided by the teachings of Holy Scripture.
1 Peter 2:12–15; 2 Timothy 2:24; Titus 3:1–2.
8.2. Evangelism and the Gospel
Because of love for lost sinners, all Christians are responsible for evangelism and for spreading the Good News by whatever means are available to them and as directed by the Lord. This must be done by presenting the Gospel rather than forcing personal views upon others, with the goal of leading people to salvation.
The proclamation of the Gospel knows no boundaries: it should begin with orthodox Jews and extend to the most distant peoples, and it should be equally accessible to children able to discern right from wrong as well as to the elderly.
Acts 1:8; Romans 1:9, 14–16; 1 Corinthians 9:16.
8.3. Preparation for Ministry
Witnessing about Christ should be preceded by proper biblical preparation, following the example of Christ, who prepared His disciples before sending them into ministry.
Acts 2:41–42.
8.4. Government and Civil Authority
Because order must be maintained, governments are established by God. He grants them authority to protect the good and punish evil. Christians are obligated to obey the laws of their country in all matters except those concerning faith or laws that restrict the free practice of Christian duties.
At the same time, believers are called to support governing authorities through peaceful living and diligent prayer, thereby easing the burden of their difficult responsibilities.
Proverbs 24:21; Luke 20:25; 1 Peter 2:12–15; Romans 13:1–7; 1 Timothy 2:1–3; Titus 3:1.
8.5. Love for People and Nations
While Christians are called to love and serve their own people as circumstances and God may require, they must never use this love as justification for hatred toward another people or for promoting hatred, hostility, or bloodshed.
Deuteronomy 5:17; Matthew 5:44; Acts 10:34; Galatians 5:19–21; Colossians 3:15; Colossians 3:10–11.
8.6. Christian Holiness and Lifestyle
Based on Scripture and the need for separation from sin, the local church upholds the principle of abstaining from alcohol (including beer), smoking, profanity, and all forms of narcotics and substance abuse.
Proverbs 23:29–35; 1 Peter 4:3–4; Romans 12:1–2; Romans 13:13; Galatians 5:19–21; Ephesians 5:18.
8.6.1. Food
All foods are permitted except for the consumption of blood, as instructed in the New Testament.
Acts 21:25.
8.6.2. Modesty in Dress
In matters of clothing, the guiding principle is “as is proper for saints,” in accordance with cultural norms and the generally accepted standards of one’s social and age group.
1 Corinthians 6:19–20; 1 Timothy 2:9.
8.7. Christians and Public Life
Because there is a distinction between the things of Caesar and the things of God, participation in elected offices, political parties, and social organizations is permitted according to each person’s conscience, provided such activity does not contradict the principles of the Gospel.
However, such participation must remain a personal civic initiative and not be carried out on behalf of the church. It is considered inappropriate for ordained ministers, who are called to be fully devoted to Christ.
8.7.1. Work and Integrity
Work in business, commerce, and government is also a matter of personal conscience, but it must be conducted in a Christian manner, without violence or deceit.
“Render therefore to all their due.”
Luke 20:25; 1 Peter 2:12–15; Romans 13:1–7.