Our Beliefs

Scripture lays out several key beliefs that Christians are to agree on in order to be in unity together. These are the essential beliefs that we hold as a church so that we can be a united body of believers who are together in "one faith". A more detailed statement of faith is included in the Church Constitution.

God is the Creator and Ruler of the universe.  He has eternally existed in three personalities:  the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.  These three are co-equal and are one God. Genesis 1:1, 26,27; 3:22; Psalm 90:2; Matthew 28:19; 1 Peter 1:2; 2 Corinthians 13:14

Jesus Christ is the Son of God.  He is co-equal with the Father.  Jesus lived sinless human life and offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of all people by dying on a cross.  He arose from the dead after three days to demonstrate His power over sin and death  He ascended to Heaven’s glory and will return again someday to earth to reign as King of Kings, and Lord of Lords. Matthew 1:22, 23; Isaiah 9:6; John 1:1-5; 14:10-30; Hebrews 4:14, 15; 1 Corinthians 15:3,4; Romans 1:3, 4; Acts 1:9-11;  1 Timothy 6:14, 15; Titus 2:13

The Holy Spirit is co-equal with the Father and the Son of God.  He is present in the world to make men aware of their need for Jesus Christ.  He also lives in every Christian from the moment of salvation.  He provides the Christian with power for living, understanding of spiritual truth, and guidance in doing what is right.  He gives every believer a spiritual gift when they are saved.  As Christians we seek to live under His control daily.  2 Corinthians 3:17; John 16:7-13, 14:16; Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 2:12, 3:16; Ephesians 1:13; Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 5:18

The Bible is God’s Word to us.  It was written by human authors, under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit.  It is the supreme source of truth for Christian beliefs and living.  Because It is inspired by God, It is the Truth without any mixture of error. 2 Timothy 3:16, 2 Peter 1:20, 21; 2 Timothy 1:13; Psalms 119:105, 160; 12:6; Proverbs 30:5

People are made in the spiritual image of God, to be like Him in character.  People are the supreme object of God’s creation.  Although every person has tremendous potential for good, all of us are marred by an attitude of disobedience toward God called “sin”.  This attitude separates people from God and causes many problems in life. Genesis 1:27; Psalm 8:3-6; Isaiah 53:6; Romans 3:23; Isaiah 59:1

Salvation is God’s gift to us but we must accept it.  We can never make up for our sin by self-improvement or good works.  Only by trusting in Jesus Christ as God’s offer of forgiveness can anyone by saved from sin’s penalty.  When we turn from our self-ruled life and turn to Jesus in faith, we are saved.  Eternal life begins the moment one receives Jesus Christ into his life by faith. Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:8, 9; John 14:6; 1:12; Titus 3:5; Galatians 3:26; Romans 5:1

People were created to exist forever.  We will either exist eternally separated from God by sin, or eternally with God through forgiveness and salvation.  To be eternally separated from God is Hell.  To be eternally in union with Him is eternal life.  Heaven and Hell are real places of eternal existence. John 3:16; 2:23; 5:11-13; Romans 6:23; Revelation 20:15; Matthew 1:8, 2:44

Leadership

FIRST is led by a team of pastors/elders who provide biblical leadership, oversight, direction, and pastoral care to the church.

Worship Service

Every Sunday morning, at 9:30 and 11 AM we gather together for a time of corporate worship which includes a time of singing, giving of tithes & offerings, prayer, and the preaching of God’s Word. Our services typically last about an hour and on the first Sunday of each month, includes communion.

Your Next Steps

Wondering how you can grow in your relationship with Jesus or how to get connected at FIRST? Find out what your next steps are.