Purpose and Statement Of Faith

Table Of Contents
  1. Purpose
  2. Statement Of Faith


Purpose

  • The purpose of this local assembly is to glorify God through:
    • Worship (Eph. 1:3-14; 1Pet. 2:5-10)
    • Evangelism – locally, nationally, internationally (Matt. 28:18-20; Mk. 16:15; Acts 1:8)
    • Discipleship – systematically teaching what Jesus taught (Matt. 28:19-20)
    • Equipping the Saints through regular biblical instruction (Eph. 4:11-13)
    • Christian Service – exercising our spiritual gifts (Rom. 12; 1Cor. 12)
    • Edification – building one another up in the faith (Acts 2:42; 20:27; Eph. 3:8; 4:12; 2Tim. 4:2)
    • Christian Fellowship (Acts 2:41-42; 1Cor. 12:12; Heb. 10:25; 1Jn. 1:3)
  • We will perform our duties as a church under the guidance of the following resources: (The order in which they are listed represents their authority.)
    • The Bible (KJV) (2Tim. 3:16; Heb. 4:12)
    • Our Statement of Faith (as we believe it to be consistent with the Bible)
    • Our Church Constitution and Bylaws
    • Our Church Guidelines


Statement Of Faith

Concerning The Scriptures
  1. We believe that the Word of God consisting of 66 books (39 OT and 27 NT) is the complete revelation of God to man. (Lk. 24:25-27, 44)
  2. We believe that the Scriptures were inspired by God (i.e. God Breathed) and that this inspiration was:
    • Verbal – Holy men of God were “moved by the Holy Ghost” to write the very words of Scripture. (2Pet. 1:19-21; Matt. 4:4; Lk. 16:17)
    • Plenary – Divine inspiration extends equally and fully to all parts of Scripture to form the whole. (Rom. 15:4; 2Tim. 3:16)
    • We believe therefore, that all Scriptures are inerrant and infallible in the original writings. (Ps. 12:6; Mt. 5:18; Jn. 17:17; 2Tim. 3:16)
  3. We believe that God has, and will providentially preserve His Word for all generations—Divine Preservation. (Ps. 33:11; 100:5; Is. 40:8; Mt. 5:17-18; 24:35)
  4. We believe that the King James Version of the Bible is the best translation for English speaking people, and have designated it to be used in all CBC ministries, whether spoken or in print because:
    • It comes from the preserved, time honored, most comprehensive Greek text, often referred to as: the Preserved Text, the Byzantine Text, the Majority Text, the Received Text (TR).
    • It is a Formal Equivalent (Word for Word) translation of the original languages, as opposed to a dynamic equivalent (sense for sense) translation.
  5. We believe that God intended for the Scriptures to be interpreted by the Literal, Historical, Grammatical method. (i.e. Dispensational Hermeneutic):
    • Literal – according to the normal and natural use and meaning of words.
    • Historical – within the original historical context.
    • Grammatical – according to the literary rules of the original languages.
    • Note: In questions of debate, all issues of interpretation and meaning shall be determined by the Pastor for CBC.
  6. We believe that the Scriptures interpreted in their natural, literal sense reveal divinely determined dispensations or rules of life that define man’s responsibilities in successive ages—Dispensationalism.
    • These dispensations are not ways of salvation, but rather divinely ordered stewardships by which God directs man according to His purpose.
    • Seven dispensations are easily detectable in the scriptures, each distinguishable by a test, failure, judgment, rule of life and crucial event. (Gen. 1:28; 1Cor. 9:17; 2Cor. 3:9-18; Gal. 3:13-25; Eph. 1:10; 3:2-10; Col. 1:24- 25, 27; Rev. 20:2-6).
  7. We believe that the Scriptures are the final authority in all matters pertaining to faith and practice. (Is. 8:20; Jn. 12:46-48; 2 Tim. 3:16-4:2)

Concerning Creation
  • We believe that God created the heavens, the earth, and all that is in them, out of nothing, in six literal twenty-four hour days, as recorded in the book of Genesis. (Gen. 1; Jn. 1:1-3; Ex. 20:11)
    • We reject the Theory of Evolution, the Gap Theory, the Day-Age Theory, and Theistic Evolution as unscriptural theories of origin. (Gen. 1-2; Ex. 20:11)

Concerning The True God
  • We believe in the One Triune God.
    • God exists eternally in three Persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. (Matt. 3:16-17; 28:19; Jn. 10:30; 14:16-17, 26; 2Cor. 13:14; 1Pet. 1:2)
    • These three Persons are one God, having precisely the same nature, attributes, and perfections, and are worthy of the same honor, confidence, and obedience. (Deut. 6:4; Mt. 3:16-17; 28:18-20; Jn. 10:30; 16:13)
    • Each Person of the Godhead exercises distinct, yet harmonious, functions. (e.g. each played a distinct role in the great work of redemption) (Matt. 3:16-17; Eph. 1:3-10; 4:4-6)

Concerning The Lord Jesus Christ
  1. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ, being the eternal Son of God, is set forth in the Scriptures as:
    • God in the flesh (Jn. 1:14; 1Jn. 4:2)
    • the Mediator between God and man (1Tim. 2:5)
    • the Prophet, Priest, and King (Deut. 18:15-18; Heb. 2:17, 5:6; Jn. 12:13)
    • the Head and Savior of the Church (Col. 1:18; Eph. 5:23)
    • the Heir of all things (Heb. 1:2)
    • the Judge of the world (Matt. 25:31-32; Jn. 5:22; Acts 10:42).
  2. We believe that, in the fullness of time, God sent forth His Son, conceived of the Holy Spirit, and born by the virgin Mary. (Gal. 4:4-5; Mt. 1:23; Is. 7:14)
    • As eternal God, He took upon Himself the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of man, without ceasing to be God—The God-Man. (Jn. 1:1-3, 14; Php. 2:6-7; 1Tim. 2:5)
    • Because He was the seed of a woman (no biological earthly father), and was the Son of God, He had no sin nature, and lived a sinless life among men. (Gen. 3:15; Heb. 4:15; 1Jn. 3:5; 1Pet. 2:22)
  3. We believe that the sinless Son of God gave Himself as a voluntary, substitutionary sacrifice when He died on the cross for sinful man. (Jn. 10:17-18; 1Pet. 3:18).
    • He was buried, and after three days, rose bodily from the grave. (Matt. 28:1-6; Lk. 24:7, 21-23, 46)
    • He was the first ever to be resurrected, never to die again. (Rom. 6:9-10; 8:11; 1Cor. 15:4, 20-26; 1Pet. 1:3-5)
    • After forty days, the risen Lord ascended back to Heaven, and is now seated at the right hand of God the Father. (Rom. 8:34; Heb. 12:2)
    • Today, He fulfills the ministry of Intercessor, Mediator, and Advocate. (Rom. 8:34; Heb. 4:14-16; 7:25; 1Jn. 2:1, 2)
    • At a time appointed by the Father, Jesus will return in the clouds to receive believers from this age unto Himself—The Rapture. (Jn. 14:1-3; Acts 1:9-11; 1Thess. 4:13-18; Heb. 9:24-28)

Concerning The Holy Spirit
  1. We believe that the Holy Spirit is the third Person of the Godhead possessing the same nature, attributes, and perfections as God the Father, and God the Son. (Acts 5:1-4; 1Jn. 5:7)
  2. We believe that, in this age, the Holy Spirit is the Supernatural Agent in the following ministries to the believer:
    • reproving (i.e. convicting) the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment (Jn. 16:8-11)
    • regenerating those who exercise faith (Jn. 3:6; 6:63; Tit. 3:4-6)
    • baptizing all believers into the body of Christ (Rom. 6:3-10; Col. 2:12)
    • sealing them until the day of redemption (Eph. 1:13-14, 4:30)
    • sanctifying (Rom. 15:16; 1Thess. 5:23-24; 2Thess. 2:13)
    • providing biblical understanding (1Cor. 2:12-16)
    • indwelling (John 7:37-39; 14:16-17; Rom. 8:9; 1Cor. 6:19-20)
    • filling (Eph. 5:18; 1Jn. 2:20, 27)
    • gifting (Rom. 12:4-8; 1Cor. 12:1-11; Eph. 4:7; 1Pet. 4:10-11)
    • guiding (Jn. 16:12-14)
    • teaching (Jn. 14:25-26)
  3. We believe that after the Rapture of the Church, the Holy Spirit’s ministry of restraint will be removed from the earth, allowing the full manifestation of unrestrained sin. (2Thess. 2:3-12; Rev. 13:1-8)
  4. We believe that, to authenticate the ministries of the Apostles to establish the Church, the Holy Spirit issued four Sign Gifts: Tongues, Interpretation of Tongues, Miracles, and Healings. (Acts 2:6-13; 5:15-16; 9:36-41; 12:5-19)
    • After the ministry of the Apostles, and the establishment of the first century church, the Sign Gifts ceased. (Acts 2:43; 5:12; 19:11; 2Cor. 12:12; 1Cor. 13:8; Heb. 2:3-4)
    • We therefore reject the teaching and practice of the modern Charismatic movement.
    • Ultimate deliverance of the body from sickness or death awaits the consummation of our salvation in the resurrection, although God frequently chooses to answer the prayers of believers for physical healing. (1Cor. 1:22; 13:8; 14:21-22)

Concerning Satan
  • We believe that Satan is a person (a created angel, Lucifer), the author of sin, and that he is the open and declared enemy of God and man; and that he will be eternally punished in the Lake of Fire. (Job 1:6-7; Isa. 14:12-17; Matt. 4:2-11; 25:41; Rev. 20:10)

Concerning Man
  1. We believe that God created man, in His own image, and after His likeness (i.e. with a will [volition], intellect, emotion, and moral sensitivity). (Gen. 1:26-27)
  2. We believe that the first man (Adam) was created in a state of innocence, but willfully sinned against God, and fell from that state of innocence. (Gen. 3:1-19)
    • As a result of the fall, a sin nature became inherent in all mankind, so that every individual is now alienated from God from birth. (Rom. 5:12; 1Cor. 15:21-22 Is. 64:6)
  3. We believe that man is totally unable to remedy his lost condition; he is sinful by nature and by choice. (Is. 64:6; Jer. 17:9; Rom. 3:10-19, 23; 8:5-8; 1Cor. 2:14; Eph. 2:1-3)
    • In his lost state, man is already under the condemnation of God, and destined to be consigned to eternal punishment. (John 3:18, 36)
    • We reject the teaching that natural man is unable to respond to the grace of God by faith, when bidden by the Holy Spirit and the Word of God. (Matt. 23:37; Mk. 16:15-16; Jn. 1:12; 3:16, 36; 5:40; Acts 16:31; Rom.9:33; Rev. 22:17; Jn. 16:8; Rom. 10:17) (see also: Salvation)

Concerning Salvation
  1. We believe that, before the foundation of the world, God ordained that His only begotten Son, Jesus, would offer himself as a substitutionary sacrifice for the sins of the world. (Matt. 25:34; Eph. 1:4; 1Pet. 1:20; Gal. 4:4-5; Heb. 2:9; 2Pet. 2:1; 1Jn. 2:1-2)
    • At the time appointed, Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and in three days rose from the dead in order to reconcile sinful man to God. (Gal. 4:4; 1Cor. 15:3-4; Jn. 3:16; 5:24; Jn. 1:12; 3:36; Acts 16:31; 17:31).
  2. We believe that salvation is made available freely to whoever will repent, and come to God by personal faith and reliance upon the sufficiency of the blood of Christ to atone for his sin. (Rev. 22:17; Mark 1:15; Luke 13:3; Jn. 14:6; Acts 4:12; 17:30; 20:21; Rom. 1:15-17; 5:10-11; 16:26; Eph. 1:7; Heb. 9:22; 1Jn. 5:12; Rev. 22:17)
    • This salvation is without respect to anything man has to contribute. (e.g. good works, Baptism, partaking of the Lord’s Supper, church affiliation, etc.) (Eph. 2:4-5, 8-9; Rom. 3:28; 4:11-15; 11:5-6; Tit. 3:5).
  3. We believe that upon receiving this great salvation, we become:
    • new creatures in Christ Jesus (2Cor. 5:17; Eph. 4:24)
    • indwelt by the Holy Spirit (Jn. 14:16-17; Eph. 1:13; 4:30)
    • recipients of Christ’s intercession before the Father (Rom. 8:34; Heb 7:25)
    • adopted into God’s family (Rom. 8:15; Gal. 4:4-5; Eph. 1:5)
    • heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ (Rom. 8:17; Gal. 4:7)
    • recipients of the indisputable promises, and power of God (2 Pet. 1:3-4; Rom. 8:28-30, 32; Heb. 13:20-21)
  4. We believe that one’s salvation is kept by the same power that saved him, and is secure in Christ forever—Eternal Security. (1Pet. 1:3-5; Jn. 10:28-29; Rom. 8:35-39; Eph. 1:13-14; Jude 24)
  5. We believe that every saved person possesses two natures, with provision made for victory of the new nature over the old nature through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit; and all claims to the eradication of the old nature in this life are unscriptural. (Rom. 7:15-25; 2Cor. 3:17; Gal. 5:17; 1Jn 1:8-10)

Concerning Justification and Sanctification
  1. We believe in Justification:
    • Christ bore the sinner’s judgment on the cross, satisfying God’s just penalty for sin, on behalf of the sinner—Propitiation. (1Pet. 2:24; 3:18; Rom. 3:25-26; 5:12-19; 1Jn. 2:1-2)
    • God justifies (declares righteous) the sinner, not because he is righteous or does righteous deeds, but because the righteousness of Christ has been imputed to the sinner’s account, through faith in Him. (Php. 3:7-9; Titus 3:5-7; 2 Cor. 5:21; Rom. 4:16-25; 10:1-4)
    • A believer is Justified (declared righteous) by grace alone, through faith alone, at the time of conversion. (Rom. 3:24, 28; 4:1-8).
  2. We believe in Positional Sanctification:
    • A believer is Sanctified (set apart from sin unto God) at the time of conversion, when he is baptized by the Holy Spirit into the body of Christ (i.e. made holy). (1Pet. 1:2; 1Cor. 1:2; 6:10-11; Acts 26:18; Jude 1)
    • God consistently views the believer as righteous, because he is “in Christ.” (Rom. 8:1-2; 1Cor. 1:30; Col. 1:13; Heb. 2:10-11; 10:10, 14)
  3. We believe in Progressive (Practical) Sanctification:
    • In his earthly pilgrimage, the believer possesses the remnants of his old sin nature, making him vulnerable to the attacks of the world, the flesh, and the devil. (Rom. 7:15-8:2; 8:19-23; Eph. 6:10-17)
    • Because of his union with Christ, and the ministry of the indwelling Holy Spirit, the believer will progressively manifest a life that is separated from sin, and unto God. (1John 3:1-3; Eph. 5:26; John 17:17; 2Cor. 6:14-18; 1John 2:15-17; 2Cor. 7:1; 1Thess. 5:23)
    • A continual war will ensue between his two natures until the day he dies, or until the Lord returns and the believer is changed into His image, and glorified together with Him. (Gal. 5:16-17; Eph. 6:10-12; 1Tim. 6:12; James 4:7-8; Phil. 1:6; 3:12-21; 1Jn. 2:16)

Concerning The Church
  1. We believe that the Scriptures teach that the Body of Christ (i.e. the Church universal), is distinct from Israel. (1Cor. 12:27; Eph. 4:12; Col. 1:24; Matt. 16:18; Rom. 11:1-5; Jer. 31:35-37; Rev. 7:4)
    • It consists of all born again believers from Pentecost until the Rapture (i.e. The Age of Grace). (Matt. 16:18; Acts 2; 2Tim. 2:2; 1Thess. 4:16-18)
    • The Church is made up of believers from all nations without regard to race, gender, social standing, denominational affiliation, etc. (Gal. 3:28; Eph. 2:19-22; Col. 3:11)
    • A believer is made part of the body of Christ (i.e. the Church) through a spiritual baptism, administered by the Holy Spirit at the moment of salvation. (Rom. 6:3-10; 1Cor. 12:13; Col. 2:12)
  2. We believe that because the Body of Christ is spread around the world, God has ordained that local bodies of believers form local Churches. (Acts 14:23; Tit. 1:5; Heb. 10:25)
    • By God’s design, the local church is autonomous (self-governing) under the Headship of Jesus Christ, and should be conducted in accordance with His laws. (Col. 1:18; Eph. 5:23-24; Acts 4:19-20; 5:29; 1Cor. 14:33, 40)
    • God intended that the local church be free from any external authority or control (e.g. affiliations, societies, organizations, associations, or agencies). (Acts 13:1-4; 15:19-31; 20:28; Rom. 16:1, 4; 1 Cor. 3:9, 16; 5:4-7, 13; 1 Pet. 5:1-4)
    • God intended for the local church to engage in: worship, proclaiming the Word of God; administering the ordinances; exercising discipline; utilizing spiritual gifts. (Acts 6:7; 12:24; 1Cor. 11:23-34; Acts 2:41; Matt. 18:15-17; 1Cor. 5:1-8; Rom. 12:4-8; Heb. 3:12-13)
  3. We believe in two offices of the local Church:
    • The Pastor (also called Bishop and Elder in the NT), is called of God to see that things are done according to Scripture, to preside over the assembly (i.e. oversee), to protect, superintend, guide, manage, shepherd, encourage, and teach. (Eph. 4:11-16; Acts 14:23; 20:17-20, 28-32; Heb. 13:7,17; 1Pet. 5:1-5)
    • Deacons are appointed by the church to serve the congregation, providing both physical and spiritual support. (Acts 6:1-7; Php. 1:1).
    • Both offices are to be filled only by men, and only men who meet the Biblical qualifications. (1Cor. 14:33-38; 1Tim. 2:11-15; 3:1-13; Tit. 1:5-9)
  4. We believe that Baptism is the first of two ordinances to be practiced in the local Church.
    • Every believer is commanded to be baptized subsequent to His salvation. (Acts 8:35-39)
    • The Bible prescribes immersion as the only mode of baptism. (Matt. 3:13-16; Acts 8:35-39)
    • Baptism publicly identifies the believer with Christ, symbolizing the spiritual union afforded by Christ’s finished work on the cross. (Mt.28:18-20; Rom. 6:3-5)
    • We reject any form of baptismal regeneration (i.e. salvation by baptism). (Gal. 3:21; Eph. 2:8; Heb. 4:2).
    • Baptism is a prerequisite to local church membership. (Acts 2:41)
  5. We believe that the Lord’s Supper (also called Communion) is the second of two ordinances to be practiced in the local Church.
    • The Lord’s Supper is a remembrance, and proclamation of the substitutionary sacrifice of Christ’s death. (Luke 22:19-20; 1Cor. 11:26)
    • Unleavened bread and unfermented fruit of the vine (grape juice) are utilized as symbols of the broken body and shed blood of the Savior. (Matt. 26:29; Mk. 14:25; Lk. 22:18; 1Cor. 11:24-25)
    • A solemn self-examination with confession and forsaking of any known sin is essential prior to participation in the ordinance. (1Cor. 11:28)
    • The frequency of the Lord’s Supper is not prescribed in the Scriptures. (1Cor. 11:25)
  6. We believe that the purity of the Church is to be maintained by Biblical Separation in three areas:
    • The individual believer must consecrate himself to the Lord from within. (Lev. 20:7; 1Pet. 3:15)
    • The individual must also separate himself from that which is compromising or profane from without (e.g. immodest dress, piercings and body markings, illegal drugs, alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, worldly entertainment and philosophies, etc.). (1Tim. 2:9; Lev. 19:28; 1Cor. 6:19-20; 2Cor. 6:11-18; Eph. 5:3, 11)
    • The Local Church must not dilute her testimony or dishonor her Lord, through fellowship, participation, or association with any doctrine, movement, or organization, that is contrary to the Faith. (Rom. 16:17-18; 2Cor. 6:14-18; 2Thess. 3:6, 14; 1Tim. 6:3-5; 1Jn. 4:1; 2Jn. 9-11)
  7. We believe that biblical church discipline is Christ’s prescription for maintaining the spiritual health, prosperity and purity of His church. (Matt. 18:15-20)
    • Local church discipline is always to be exercised in the spirit of obedience to God’s Word, love for Christ and His church, and a desire for the restoration of the erring brother. (1Cor. 5:1-13; Gal. 6:1; 2Thess. 3:6; 1Tim. 1:18-20; 5:19-20; Tit. 3:10-11; 2Cor. 2:5-11)
  8. We believe the Lord has divinely ordained two other institutions: the family and human government. (Gen. 2:24; Eph. 5:22-6:4; Rom. 13:1-7)
    • We believe the local church is to actively promote and protect the nuclear family (as designed by God), consisting of a father, mother and children. (Acts 16:31; 18:8; Eph. 6:1-4; Col. 3:20; 1Tim. 5:8)
    • We also believe the church is to support and promote godliness and justice in government by praying for those in office, obeying its laws, and encouraging the appointment of godly leaders. (1Tim. 2:1-4; Lk 20:24-25)
  9. We believe in the Separation of Church and State as defined in the scriptures.
    • Both Church and State have divinely ordered responsibilities that are purposefully distinct one from the other; God intended for that distinction to be maintained—i.e. Separation of Church and State. (Rom. 13:1-2; 1Tim. 3:15; Acts 1:8; Eph. 4:11-13; Mk. 12:17)
    • God intended for His people to be involved in both institutions, some to serve Him in leadership roles, but all to submit to the authority of each institution in its God ordained commission. (Matt. 22:21; 1Tim. 2:1-3; Rom. 13:1-7; Tit. 3:1; 1Pet. 2:13-17; Heb. 13:17)
    • God intended for those involved in both institutions to look to Him as the Divine Potentate, and to adhere to the principles and precepts contained in His Word. (Is. 45:1-13; Rom. 13:1-7; Jn. 19:11; Col. 1:18; Dan. 2:28-45)
    • In the event that either authority requires what God forbids, it is the believer’s responsibility to obey God rather than man. (Acts 5:29)

Concerning The Future
  1. We believe that, at His first advent, Jesus came to Earth as the Lamb of God to take away the sin of the world. (Jn. 1:29, 36)
    • He was legitimately offered to His people (Israel) as the fulfillment of God’s Messianic prophecies, but was rejected by them as a nation. (Matt. 15:24; 21:4-9; John 1:11; Is. 53:1-3; Rom. 11)
    • A new dispensation was inaugurated (the Church age, or age of Grace), a biblical mystery in prior ages. (Mt.13:11-13; Rom. 11:25; Eph. 3:2-11; Col. 1:25-27)
    • God is now calling out a people from all nations (Jew and Gentile) from this age, to form an eternal Bride for Christ. (Acts 10:34-35; 15:14; Rom. 11:25-26; Luke 21:24; Gal. 3:28)
  2. We believe that the next event in God’s prophetic time table will be the Rapture of the Church (the Bride of Christ). (1Cor. 15:51-53; 1Thess. 4:15-17)
    • The Lord will come in the clouds to “catch away” His Bride. (1Thess. 4:13-18; John 14:1-3; 1Thess. 5:9; Phil. 3:20-21)
    • This catching away (Rapture) is imminent (i.e. could happen at any time) and pre-tribulational (i.e. will precede the tribulation period, i.e. Pre-tribulation Rapture). (Titus 2:11-14; ICor. 15:51-52; Rev. 3:10; Rom. 5:8; 1Thess 1:10; 5:9)
  3. We believe that after the Rapture of the Church, a seven year period of tribulation will begin on earth. (Dan. 12:7; Rev. 12:14; Rev. 4-18)
    • This seven-year tribulation will be the fulfillment of the prophecy of Daniel’s seventieth week, which Jeremiah calls, “the Time of Jacob’s Trouble.” (Dan. 9:24-27; Jer. 30:7)
    • These seven years of tribulation will be so severe that if the days were not limited by God: no one would physically survive them. (Mt. 24:21-22)
    • During the tribulation period, the Beast (Antichrist) and the false prophet, spoken of in the Book of Revelation, will be allowed to organize evil in opposition to the Lord. (Rev. 13:1-18; 2Thess. 2:1-12)
    • Although the Great Tribulation will be a horrific time, multitudes of souls will be saved from every kindred and nation. (Rev. 9-17; 14:1, 3, 6)
    • A remnant of the nation of Israel will be saved and preserved to enter the Millennial Kingdom. (Rev. 7:1-8)
  4. We believe that, after the seven year tribulation period, the Lord Jesus will return to the earth—Premillennial Second Coming. (Matt. 24: 29-31; Rev. 19:11-16)
    • At this second advent, Jesus will appear as the “Lion of Judah,” to reign with great power and glory. (Rev. 5:5)
    • This will bring a close to the “Times of the Gentiles” (i.e. Israel’s domination by Gentile world powers as judgment for their unbelief and rebellion). (Lk. 21:24; Rev. 19:17-19; Is. 17:7; 62:11-12; Rom. 11:26)
    • At His return, the Lord Jesus Christ will judge the living Jews and Gentiles, in order to separate the saved from the unsaved. The unsaved will be destroyed, while the saved will enter into the kingdom. (Ez. 20:34-38; Matt. 24-25; Mal. 3:2-3, 5)
  5. We believe that when the Lord returns, He will establish His Millennial Kingdom (one thousand year reign) (Rev. 20:1-7; 1Cor. 15:25-27)
    • He will lift the curse which now affects the whole creation. (Gen. 3:17; Rom. 8:18-22; Rev. 22:3)
    • The redeemed of Israel will be restored to their own land, allowing her, as a nation, to realize God’s full covenant blessings. (Rom. 11:26; Isa. 9:6-7; Isa. 11:1-9; Lk. 1:31-33)
    • Satan will be bound for one thousand years in the bottomless pit. (Rev. 20:2)
  6. We believe that at the end of this Millennial Kingdom, Satan will be loosed for a short season, in which he will lead a rebellion against Christ. (Rev. 20:7-10)
    • At the appointed time, fire will fall from heaven and devour the enemies of God. (Rev. 20:9)
    • Satan himself, will be cast into the lake of fire to be eternally tormented. (Rev. 20:10-15)

Concerning The Eternal State
  1. We believe that at death, the souls and spirits of those who have trusted in the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation will pass immediately into His presence. (2 Cor. 5:8; Luke 23:42-43)
    • They will remain in conscious bliss until the “First Resurrection” and the glorification of their bodies. (Phil. 1:23; 3:21; Rev. 20:6)
    • The body, soul and spirit will be reunited and associated with Him forever in glory. (1Cor. 15:51-57; 1Thess. 4:13-18)
  2. We believe that at death, the souls and spirits of unbelievers remain conscious of their condemnation, torment and misery, until the Great White Throne judgment, at the “Second Resurrection” at the close of the Millennium. (Lk. 16:19-31; Jude 6-7; Matt. 22:13; 25:30)
    • At that time, the resurrected body will be reunited with the soul and spirit, and will be cast into the lake of fire, not to be annihilated, but to be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord. (Rev. 20:11-15; 2Thess. 1:7-9)
  3. We believe that The Lord Jesus will create a New Heaven and New Earth for His eternal abode with His people from all ages. (Rev. 21-22)

Concerning Christian Worship
  1. We believe that God must be the only object of worship, and that worship is the duty and privilege of every believer, and is intended to be an integral part of his church, family, and private life. (Ps. 84:1-4, 10; Ps. 122:1; Acts 2:42; Heb. 10:25)
  2. We believe that true biblical worship must involve sincere expressions of the heart, which are manifested in:
    • love and devotion (Deut. 6:4-9; Mt. 22:37-38)
    • godly fear (Ex. 3:5; Heb. 12:28-29; Isa. 6:1-8)
    • profound reverence (i.e. deep respect)
  3. We believe that corporate worship (church) is to be God Centered, Bible Based, Distinctly Christian, and Congregation Oriented. (Ps. 27:4; Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16; 1 Chron. 16:29; 2 Chron. 20:21; Ps. 29:2; Ps. 96:9; Lev. 10:1-3; Deut. 12:30-32; Matt. 15:8-9; John 4:20-24; Acts 2:42; 1 Tim. 2:1-4; 1 Cor. 2:2; 2 Cor. 5:17)
  4. We believe that any form of corporate worship which is sensual, man-centered, inconsistent with biblical precepts, empty, vainly repetitious, unidentifiable from secular culture or merely a form of Christian entertainment rather than worship, is not to be accepted as true worship.
  5. We believe that the first day of the week is the Lord’s Day, commemorating the resurrection of our Lord. (Mt. 28:1; Mk. 16:1-2; Lk. 24:1; Jn. 20:1; Rev. 1:10)
    • It was established by Christ’s Apostles as the one day in seven, set aside for rest and corporate worship (i.e. Church). (Acts 20:5-7; 1 Cor. 16:1-2)
    • As it is the “Lord’s Day,” it should be free of distractions such as unnecessary labor and recreation. (Ex. 20:8-11; Deut. 5:12-14; Isa. 58:13; Mk. 2:23-3:6; Heb. 4:3-11)

Concerning Music
  1. We believe that music must reflect, and never contradict the nature of God (i.e. His holiness, righteousness, verity, mercy, grace, love, and benevolence). (Deut. 10:21; 1Chron. 16:9-33; 2Chron. 20:21; Ps. 95:1-2)
  2. We believe that music used in worship services must be distinctly Christlike.
    • Christlike music is “music in which text, music, performers, and performance practices are conforming to the image of Christ.” (Col. 3:16; Eph. 5:19)
    • Music that is Christlike will never be unscriptural, worldly, carnal, irritating, weakening, disorderly, or sensual. (1Cor. 14:26; Php. 4:8-9; Col. 3:2-5)
  3. We believe that worldly music styles (e.g. Rock, Blues, Jazz, Big Band, Rap, Contemporary Christian Music), and any other past or future styles adopted by the unsaved world, are inherently un-Christlike.
    • We reject all music written or performed in these styles. (2Cor. 6:11-18; 1Thess. 4:2-7; Ecc. 7:5; 1Cor. 15:33)

Concerning Missions
  • We believe that in accordance to our Lord’s Great Commission, we, the members of Corinth Baptist Church, must:
    • seek to be faithful in personal evangelism of the lost here at home.
    • prayerfully and financially support missionary evangelism to all the peoples of the earth. (Matt. 16:13-20; Matt. 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-20; Luke 24:46-49; Acts 1:6-8)

Concerning Marriage and Human Sexuality
  1. We believe that God instituted and defined marriage as the union of one man and one woman for life. (Gen. 2:21-24)
    • Marriage, as God had defined it, was sanctioned by Christ, and reaffirmed by the Apostles. (Mt. 19:4-6; John 2:1-11; Col. 3:18-19; 1Pet. 3:7; Heb. 13:4)
    • Biblical marriage is to be honored, cherished, and protected in our homes and churches. (Mk. 10:2-9; 1Cor. 7:1-15; Eph. 5:22-33)
    • God intended that biblical marriage demonstrate the wonderful relationship between Christ, the Bride Groom, and His Bride, the Church. (Eph. 5)
  2. We believe that God ordained human sexuality for the purpose of procreation and personal enjoyment within the monogamous marriage relationship. (Gen. 1:27-28; 1Cor. 7:1-9; Heb. 13:4)
    • Any other expression of sexuality, such as homosexuality, bisexuality, bestiality, incest, pornography, premarital and extramarital sex, are expressly forbidden in Scripture. (Rom. 1:24-28; 1Tim. 1:10; Lev. 18:22-23; 20:13-16; Ex. 22:19; Deut. 27:20-23; 1Cor. 6:9-11; Ex. 20:14)
  3. We believe that some individuals are called and gifted by God to live single, celibate lives for His glory. (Mt. 19:10-12; 1Cor. 7:6-9)

Concerning The Family
  1. We believe that men and women are spiritually equal in position before God, but that God has ordained distinct and separate physical and spiritual functions for men and women in the home and the church. (Gal. 3:28)
    • The husband is to be the leader of the home, and men are to be the leaders (pastors and deacons) of the church. (Col. 3:18; 1Tim. 2:8-15)
    • Accordingly, only men are eligible for licensure and ordination by the church. (1Tim.3:4-5, 12)
  2. We believe that God has ordained the family as the foundational institution of human society. (Gen. 1:26-28; Mk. 10:6-12; 1 Cor. 7:1- 16)
    • The husband is to love his wife as Christ loves the church. (Eph. 5:25-33; Col. 3:19; Heb. 13:4)
    • The wife is to submit herself to the Scriptural leadership of her husband as the church submits to the headship of Christ. (Eph. 5:22-24; Col. 3:18; 1 Pet. 3:1-7)
    • Children are an heritage from the Lord. Parents are responsible for teaching their children spiritual and moral values through consistent lifestyle example and appropriate discipline, including Scriptural corporal correction. (Ex. 20:12; Deut. 6:4-9; Ps. 127:3-5; Prov. 19:18; 22:15; 23:13-14; Eph. 6:1-4, Col. 3:20-21)

Concerning Divorce and Remarriage
  1. We Believe that the scriptures teach, in clear and unambiguous language, that marriage is sacred and permanent, and that every effort should be made to preserve a marriage.
  2. We Believe that, while a child of God may, without recourse, be abandoned by an unsaved or impious mate, divorce is never to be sought or initiated by a NT believer. (1Cor. 7:10-16; Mal. 2:16; Mk. 10:11-12)
    • We recognize that good men differ on the interpretation of the “exception” clause found in Matt. 5:32 and Matt. 19:9, and the “not under bondage” clause of 1 Cor. 7. Nevertheless, we believe that these clauses are commonly misinterpreted and offer no justification for a believer seeking a divorce.
    • We further hold that because there is no biblical basis for divorce, in the event divorce has already occurred, remarriage is prohibited until the death of the spouse.
    • In the event that divorce and/or remarriage has already occurred in one’s life, the grace and love of God is not diminished, nor is ours. Therefore, we welcome you and invite you to participate in the ministry of edification, comfort and encouragement as part of our church family.

Concerning the Sanctity of Life
  • We believe that God alone is the Giver of life and that any scientific or medical practice that would promote the mutilation or destruction of human life at any point from fertilization until death by natural causes orchestrated by God, is an offense to God. (Gen.1:26-27; Job 33:4; Ps. 31:15; Jer. 1:5; Ps. 139:14-16)
    • Human life begins at conception and the unborn child is a living human being, created in God’s image, therefore abortion constitutes the unjustifiable, inexcusable taking of human life—murder. (Gen. 9:5-6; Ex. 21:22-25; Ps. 127:4-5; Isa. 44:24; 49:1, 5; Lk. 1:44)
    • Euthanasia and so-called “mercy killing” also constitutes the unjustifiable, inexcusable taking of human life—murder. (Job 14:5; Ps. 139:16; Matt. 6:27)

Concerning The Authority of our Statement of Faith
  • We believe that our Statement of Faith does not exhaust the extent of our faith. The Bible itself is the sole and final source of all that we believe.
    • We do believe, however, that the foregoing Statement of Faith accurately represents the teachings of the Bible and, therefore, is binding upon all members.
    • All literature, whether print or electronic, used in the church will be in complete agreement with our Statement of Faith.