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Our
Core Values
Our
vision reflects seven basic, core values-distinctive priorities
that define the kind of church we believe God wants us to be. They
are central to our identity and purpose. As a church, we are committed
to being:
Personally
Authentic
We believe God intends us to live life honestly. Not afraid to admit
our flaws and fears, not pressured to pretend we're someone we're
not. We believe God accepts people right where they are and lovingly
moves them toward where He desires them to be. We're committed to
living authentic lives with God, with ourselves, and with each other
(Matthew 5:37; Romans 15:7; Galatians 6:2; James 5:16).
Lovingly
Relational
We believe that spiritual growth happens best in caring relationships,
where people actively participate in a small community of believers
that encourages, challenges, prays, serves, and learns together.
We believe that the small (cell) group is the most effective context
for discipleship, leadership training, and evangelism. When joined
together, these cells form a church that is a purposeful, loving
community. We are committed to developing an expanding network of
cell groups, and to a church structure that keeps them at the center
of our programming, emphasis, and organization (Acts 2:42-47; Galatians
6:1-2; Ephesians 4:1-16).
Culturally
Relevant
We believe God wants to reach people in ways that are meaningful
to them. Our style is contemporary. We're not interested in passing
fads or gimmicks, we simply want to use the clearest, most effective
means possible to communicate God's message. We are committed to
presenting the truths of Christianity in a creative and relevant
manner without compromising the gospel in any way (Acts 17:16-34;
1 Corinthians 9:19-23).
Unapologetically
Biblical
We believe the Bible is true; that it is authoritative and applicable
to every part of our lives. While we are progressive in our methods,
we are conservative in theology, grounded securely to the truths
of historic, evangelical Christianity. We study, teach, and follow
Scripture as our sole authority and guidebook for life. We are committed
to being thoroughly Biblical and doctrinally pure in all we do (John
17:14-17; Ephesians 6:17; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:14-17; Hebrews 4:12).
Outreach
Oriented
We believe the answers for all of life and eternity are found in
a restored personal relationship with God through faith in Christ.
We are committed to spreading His love and message to those who
don't yet know it, empowering people to express their faith confidently
and naturally, and cultivating purposeful relationships with unbelievers.
We are dedicated to expanding our outreach-both personally and corporately-to
our friends, family, community, and world (Matthew 28:18-20; 1 Corinthians
9:19-23).
Lay-Ministry
Mobilized
We believe God never intended church to be a spectator sport, but
that He gives vital spiritual gifts to every believer. We believe
their discovery, development, and exercise are the primary instrument
of Christ to minister to His body. We are committed to helping people
serve each other according to their spiritual gifts, strengthening
each other until all reach full maturity (Romans 12:3-8; Ephesians
4:1-16; 1 Peter 4:8-11).
Grace
Focused
We believe the central, driving force of the universe and in our
lives is the unmerited grace and love of God. We believe His grace
alone-not our effort or accomplishment-is responsible for producing
eternal life, freedom from sin and its control, and lasting change
in an individual's character. We are committed to focusing on and
celebrating that grace, and fostering an environment that reflects
it in our lives and relationships (Romans 4:5; 5:20-21; 8:31-39;
Ephesians 2:1-10).
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