Our doctrinal statement or theological statement follows. If you have specific questions beyond what is in this, or expanding on this, please contact me.
Introduction:
I am conservative, evangelical, and thoroughly creedal. I love the Church Fathers and believe that grace is powerful enough to forgive sin--and to break its power in the life of a believer, according to Romans 6 and 8. I lean more toward the optimism of those chapters in my teaching than I do toward Romans 7. I believe strongly in the power of grace to deliver us from sin! I believe in a deeper life, in the tradition of DL Moody or RA Torrey, and I am a huge fan of John Wesley, considering myself an "old-fashioned" Methodist.
What about controversial areas of theology?
I never bring them up unless it is needed because of a passage. Most times, that's not needed. The first thing that new believers need is to learn to love Jesus and imitate him. They need to focus on new habits, not getting into controversy which doesn't lead to godliness.
NewStart Discipleship Doctrinal Statement
A Note About Our Beliefs:
In essential beliefs — we have UNITY. We stand firm on the essentials of the Christian faith: Jesus is God, He lived, died, and rose again, and the Bible is the inspired Word of God, authoritative for our faith and practice. These truths are non-negotiable.
In non-essential beliefs — we have LIBERTY. On matters where Scripture allows for diversity of practice or opinion, we respect the liberty God has given each believer. Whether it’s style of worship, methods of baptism, or personal convictions, we embrace the freedom to follow God as He leads.
In all our beliefs — we show LOVE. Love for God and neighbor is the cornerstone of all we do. Jesus said the world would know us by our love, so whether we agree or disagree, love remains our highest aim.
About God
We believe in one God, eternally existing in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He is the Creator, Sustainer, and Ruler of all things and desires to have a personal relationship with every person. He has willed from all eternity that all those who believe will be holy as he is holy.
About Jesus
Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God. Born of the Virgin Mary, He lived a sinless life and offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of the world through His death on the cross. He rose bodily from the grave, ascended to Heaven, and will one day return to reign as King.
About the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is co-equal with the Father and the Son. He convicts the world of sin, regenerates the repentant believer, and empowers Christians to live holy lives. He also gives spiritual gifts to equip the church for ministry and mission.
About the Bible
The Bible is God’s Word. Written by human authors under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, it is entirely true, without error, and serves as the ultimate authority for faith and conduct.
About Humanity
Every person is created in the image of God and has intrinsic value. However, because of sin, all are separated from God, unable to save ourselves, and in need of redemption. This redemption is offered freely through Jesus Christ.
About Salvation
Salvation is a free gift of God’s grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ. It involves turning from sin (repentance) and trusting in Jesus’ finished work on the cross. Salvation is secure for those who continue in faith, since we are held by God's power. Yet, Scripture's warnings are sincere: it is possible to willfully reject faith in Christ and fall away from grace. (Galatians 5:4)
About Sanctification
In the tradition of preachers like DL Moody, AW Tozer, John Wesley, and AM Hills, we believe in a deeper work of the Holy Spirit after justification. We believe that God can do something more with sin than forgive it – he can also break its power through the filling of the Holy Spirit. Through the Holy Spirit, believers can be cleansed of the sinful nature, enabling them to fully love God from a united heart, and empowering them for bold witness and service to His Kingdom. This results in an entire sanctification, and a preservation until the coming of Christ. (1 Thes. 5:23-24)
About the Church
The Church is the body of Christ, made up of all true believers. It exists to glorify God, make disciples, and spread the Gospel to the world.
About Discipleship
Discipleship is not optional. It is the lifelong process of becoming more like Jesus in heart, mind, and actions. At NewStart Discipleship, we define a disciple as someone learning to know, love, and imitate Jesus in community with a local church.
About Eternity
Every person will live eternally, either with God in a renewed creation (Heaven) or apart from Him in eternal separation (Hell).
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