I. The Scriptures.
We believe that the Holy Bible was written by men divinely inspired by God and it reveals the principles by which God will judge us. Therefore is, and shall remain to the end of the world, the true center of Christian union, and the supreme standard by which all human conduct, creeds, and opinions shall be tried.
II. The True God.
We believe the Scriptures teach that there is one, and only one, living and true God. An infinite, intelligent Spirit, whose name is Jehovah, the Maker and Supreme Ruler of heaven and earth. In the unity of the Godhead there are three persons, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Equal in every divine perfection, and executing distinct but harmonious offices in the great work of redemption.
III. The Fall of Man.
We believe the Scriptures teach that Man was created in holiness, under the law of his Maker, but by voluntary sin fell from that holy and happy state. In consequence of which all mankind are now sinners, not by constraint but choice; being by nature utterly void of that holiness required by the law of God, inclined to evil; and therefore under just condemnation to eternal ruin, without defense or excuse.
IV. The Way of Salvation.
We believe that the Scriptures teach that the salvation of sinners is grace. Through the Son of God; who by the appointment of the Father, freely took upon Him our nature, yet without sin; honored the divine law by His personal obedience, and by His death made a full atonement for our sins. That having risen from the dead, He is now enthroned in heaven. He is in every way qualified to be a suitable, a compassionate, and an all-sufficient Savior.
V. Justification.
We believe the Scriptures teach that the great Gospel blessing which Christ gives to believers is justification. Justification includes the pardon of sin, and the promise of eternal life. Not in consideration of any works which we have done, but solely through faith in the Redeemer’s blood.
VI. The Freeness of Salvation.
We believe that the Scriptures teach that salvation is made free to all. It is the immediate duty of all to accept Him by faith, and that nothing prevents the salvation of a man but his own rejection of the Gospel which results in condemnation.
VII. Regeneration.
We believe that the Scriptures teach that in order to be saved, sinners must be born again. It consists of giving a holy disposition to the mind that it is affected by the power of the Holy Spirit in connection with divine truth. Its proper evidence appears in repentance, faith, and newness of life.
VIII. Repentance and Faith.
We believe the Scriptures teach that repentance and faith are sacred duties. Being convinced of our guilt, danger, and helplessness we turn to God with confession and request for mercy. At the same time receiving the Lord Jesus Christ as our Prophet, Priest, and King.
IX. Sanctification.
We believe the Scriptures teach that Sanctification is the process by which we are made partakers of His holiness. We demonstrate this through reading the word of God, self-examination, self-denial, watchfulness, and prayer.
X. The Law and Gospel.
We believe the Scriptures teach that the Law of God is the eternal and unchangeable rule of His government. It is holy, just, and good. It is the means of grace connected with the establishment of the church.
XI. A Gospel Church.
We believe the Scriptures teach that a church of Christ is a congregation of baptized believers, associated by covenant in the faith and fellowship of the Gospel. Observing the ordinances of Christ; governed by His laws, and exercising the gifts, rights, and privileges invested in them by His Word.
XII. Baptism and the Lord’s Supper.
We believe the Scriptures teach that Christian baptism is the immersion in water of a believer, into the name Jesus Christ (Acts 2:38). To show our faith in the crucified, buried, and risen Savior, with its effect, in our death to sin and resurrection to a new life. that it is prerequisite to the privileges of a church relation and to the Lord’s Supper. The Lord’s Supper is where members of the church, by the sacred use of bread and wine, are to commemorate together the dying love of Christ; preceded always by solemn self-examination and repentance.
XIII. The Christian Sabbath.
We believe the Scriptures teach that the first day of the week is the Lord’s Day, or Sabbath, and is to be kept sacred to religious purposes by abstaining from all secular labor by the observance of rest.
XIV. Civil Government.
We believe the Scriptures teach that civil government is of divine appointment, for the interest and good order of human society; and that magistrates are to be prayed for, conscientiously honored and obeyed; except only in things opposed to the will of our Lord Jesus Christ.
XV. Righteous and Wicked.
We believe the Scriptures teach that there is a radical difference between the righteous and the wicked. Only as through faith are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and sanctified by the Spirit of our God, are truly righteous in his esteem. All who continue in impenitence and unbelief are in His sight wicked and under the curse.
XVI. The World to Come.
We believe the Scriptures teach that the end of the world is approaching; that at the last day, Christ will descend from heaven and raise the dead from the grave for final judgment. A separation will then take place, The wicked will be sent to hell for eternity, and the righteous to heaven for eternity.