What We Believe

We make this statement of faith available to people who ask for one so that they will know where we stand on the essentials of Christian teaching.  But in reading this page, keep in mind that our faith consists of more than what we simply believe to be true--our faith finds its full expression in how we lead our lives (James 2:14-26).  More than anything we believe that Christians are called to love one another (John 15:12).

We believe in One Eternal God who exists as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, who has revealed Himself in Scripture, aka the Holy Bible.

We believe the Bible is true and accurate in its revelation of God.

We believe that the historical Yeshua of Nazareth, commonly called Jesus Christ, is the Messiah, the chosen Son of God. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of a virgin, Miriam (Mary) of Nazareth.  His sinless life, teachings, actions, and signs (miracles) demonstrated the very nature of God.  He willingly died on the cross as a perfect sacrifice for all the sins of humanity for all time.  Three days later, he was raised from the dead and seen by all the apostles and other reliable witnesses.  Jesus has returned to Heaven to reign with his Father, but has made his Holy Spirit freely available to all people.

Receiving the Holy Spirit begins with repentance (true sorrow over and a turning away from sin), and accepting that Jesus’ death and resurrection have made us completely innocent and clean before God. When we then desire God’s will more than anything in our lives, we begin to truly see the Holy Spirit work through us.

The Holy Spirit is continuing the work begun by Jesus Christ through His followers: spreading the Gospel message, caring for the poor and hurting, visiting the prisoners, and healing the sick.

 The Church consists of all true believers in Christ wherever they are found all over the world, regardless of denomination.

The historical heritage of this congregation is Lutheran, and we continue to affirm the traditional Lutheran exposition of Scripture. We also accept the truth and historical importance of the ancient Apostle’s and Nicene Creeds. Nonetheless, we believe that all who confess Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, regardless of denominational affiliation, are our brothers and sisters in Christ, and our celebration of the Lord’s Supper (Communion) is open to all.

Jesus said in John 11:25, “I am the resurrection and the life.  The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.”  This is a profound statement and will prepare you to understand the promise of Heaven found throughout Scripture is through Jesus Christ.  (See also John 5:19-30 and 14:3)

There is more we could say, but we think you will better understand what we believe by visiting, and, we hope, joining.  We are glad you are interested in learning more!
 
Yours in Christ,
 Pastor Mark