Cornerstone Assembly

Cambridge, Maryland, U.S.A.

The Full Statement of Fundamental Truths

All Scriptures are from the King James Version of the Bible.

1. The Inspired Scriptures

The Holy Scriptures, both the Old and New Testaments, are verbally inspired of God word for word, including the grammar. They are the revelation of God to man, the infallible, all authoritative rule of faith and conduct, and are supreme above all other law. God has providentially preserved the transmission of truth throughout time, and the believer is able to acquire His Word in unbiased translations that remain true to the proper manuscripts, examples of which are the King James Version and the New King James Version. The Old Testament is comprised of the 39 books traditionally accepted by the true Christian faith from Genesis to Malachi, and contains none of the Apocrypha. (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, 1 & 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi) The New Testament is comprised of the 27 books traditionally accepted by the true Christian faith. (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts, Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 & 2 Thessalonians, 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, 1 & 2 Peter, 1, 2, & 3 John, Jude, Revelation)
Psalm 119:89, 1 Thessalonians 2:13, 2 Timothy 3:15-17, 2 Peter 1:21

2. The One True God

The one true God is the eternally self-existent, omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent, immutable, self-sufficient, "I AM," the sole Creator of heaven and earth and the only Redeemer of mankind. He has revealed Himself as incorporating the principles of association and relationship as Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Exodus 3:14, Deuteronomy 6:4, Isaiah 43:10-11, Matthew 28:19*, Luke 1:35*, Luke 3:22*, John 14:26*, Galatians 4:6*, 1 John 4:13-14*

The Adorable Holy Godhead
   A. Terms "Trinity" and "Persons" defined: The terms "Trinity" and "Persons" in relation to the Godhead, while not found in the Scriptures, are words in agreement with Scripture, whereby we may communicate to all our basic understanding of the doctrine of Christ in regard to the Being of God, as distinguished from "gods many and lords many." We do not believe in three gods. The Scriptures clearly show One Being, God, as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (as seen above*).
We therefore may speak of the Lord our God who is One Lord, as Trinity, or as one Being of three persons, and still be absolutely scriptural. By "persons" or "person" in this context, we do not mean separate beings, but just as much as one human is one being, yet is able to sense distinctions and desires between his own body, soul, and spirit, so the Godhead (Acts 17:29, Colossians 2:9) is One. Genesis 1:26, Genesis 3:22, Matthew 28:19, John 14:16-17, 2 Corinthians 13:14
   B. Distinction and Relationship in the Godhead: Christ taught, and the whole of Scripture shows, a distinction of Persons in the Godhead which He expressed in specific terms of relationship, as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Luke 1:35,Matthew 11:25-27, Matthew 28:19, 2 Corinthians 13:14, 1 John 1:3-4.
   C. Distinction and Unity of the One Being of Father, Son and Holy Ghost: Because of this, therefore, there is that in the Father which comprises Him the Father and not the Son; there is that in the Son which comprises Him the Son and not the Father; and there is that in the Holy Spirit which comprises Him the Holy Spirit and not the Father nor the Son. Hence the Father is the Begetter, the Son is the Begotten, and the Holy Ghost is the one proceeding from the Father and the Son. The Holy Scriptures always show Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as One and acting in unity. Also, whereas there is only One God, and all three Persons are shown as God, and therefore possess the attributes of God, therefore the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are one Eternal Being with these distinctions. Therefore there is but one Lord God Almighty. Deuteronomy 6: 4, Zechariah 14:9, John 1:18, John 15:26, John 17:11, John 17:21, Revelation 5:6-7
   D. Identity, Unity, Interaction, and Cooperation in the Godhead: The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit are never identical as to Person, confused as to relation, divided in respect to the Godhead, or opposed as to cooperation. The Son is eternally in the Father and the Father is eternally in the Son as to relationship. The Son is eternally with the Father and the Father is eternally with the Son, as to fellowship. The Father proceeds not from the Son, but the Son proceeds from the Father, as to authority. The Holy Spirit is sent from the Father and the Son, as to relationship, cooperation, and authority. Hence, neither Person in the Godhead either exists or works separately or independently of the others. John 5:17-30, John 5:32, John 5:37, John 8:17,18
   E. Human Comprehension Of The Godhead: Though complete comprehension as to all of the aspects of the Holy Trinity cannot be had in this life, we believe that the fact that we ourselves are a trinity of body, soul, and spirit, renders a limited sense of understanding as to relationship within the Godhead. Just as our body, soul, and spirit completely traverse through our being on earth, yet we are one being, so, though there are distinctions within the Godhead as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, these traverse throughout the entire being of God, whether perceived by man or not perceived by man. John 14:10-11 cp. John 4:24 This distinction and relationship within the Godhead was necessary for our salvation. John 12:30, John 17:17-19, Galatians 2:20, Hebrews 2:9-18
   F. The Title, Lord Jesus Christ: The designation, "Lord Jesus Christ," is a proper name, and is never applied in the New Testament, either to the Father or to the Holy Spirit. Hence it belongs exclusively to the Son of God. Romans 1:1-3, Philippians 2:9-11, 2 John 1:3
   G. The Lord Jesus Christ, God with Us: The Lord Jesus Christ, as to His eternal divine nature, is the only Begotten of the Father, the Son of God, but as to His human nature, He is the Son of Man. Hence, He is acknowledged to be both totally God and totally man; Who, because He is God and man, is "Immanuel," God with us. Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:23, Matthew 16:16, Romans 1:3, Romans 9:5, 1 John 4:2, Revelation 1:13, Revelation 1:17
   H. The Titles, "Son of God" and "Son of Man": Since the name "Immanuel" embraces both God and man in our Lord Jesus Christ, it follows that the title, Son of God, describes His deity, and the title, Son of Man, His humanity. Hence, the title Son of God, pertains to the order of eternity, and the title, Son of Man, to the order of time. Matthew 1:21-23, Luke 1:35, Hebrews 1:1-13, Hebrews 7:3 cp Hebrews 7:17, 1 John 3:8, 2 John 3
   I. The Son is the only Mediator: The Scriptures declare that the Lord Jesus Christ is the only mediator between God and man. Psalm 73:25, John 14:6, 1 Timothy 2:5, Hebrews 9:15
   J. Deviation from the Doctrine of Christ in derivation of title: It is error to say that Jesus Christ derived the title, Son of God, solely from the fact of the incarnation, or solely because of His relation to the economy of redemption. Therefore, to deny that the Father is the real and eternal Father, and that the Son is the real and eternal Son, is a denial of the distinction and relationship in the Being of God. This is a denial of the Father, and the Son; and a displacement of the truth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. John 1:1-2, John 1:14, John 1:18, Hebrews 12:2 , 1 John 2:22-23, 1 John 4:1-5, 2 John 9 It is also error to state that the term, Son of God, was attributed to Christ because he was an archangel, or any class of angel, or any kind of creature. John 1:3, Colossians 1:16-19, Hebrews 1:1-12
   K. The Deity of the Lord Jesus Christ: The Lord Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God. John 1:1, John 8:58, John 18:6, John 20:28, Colossians 2:9, Titus 2:13, Hebrews 1:8, 2 Peter 1:1, 1 John 5:20
   L. Retention Of Deity In Earthly Ministry: Though veiled in flesh, the Son of God retained His full deity. Therefore, it is error to interpret the phrase, "of no reputation" (Philippians 2:7), as to mean He gave up His deity or ceased to be God at any point. Though, while in His initial flesh, He chose not, for our sake, to use His prerogatives of deity, He no longer needed (for our sakes) to limit such options after the completion the atonement for us by Him. Isaiah 9:6, Matthew 28:18, Hebrews 1:11-12, Hebrews 13:8
   M. Other Scriptural Declarations about Jesus Christ include, but are not limited to...:
     (1).His virgin birth: Matthew 1:23, Luke 1:31-35
     (2). Born without sinful flesh: 1 Corinthians 15:47, Hebrews 9:14
     (3). His sinless life: Hebrews 7:26, 1 Peter 2:22
     (4). His miracles: Acts 2:22, Acts 10:38
     (5). His substitutionary work on the cross: 1 Corinthians 15:3, 2 Corinthians 5:21
     (6). His bodily resurrection from the dead, Matthew 28:6, Luke 24:39,1 Corinthians 15:4
     (7). His exaltation to the right hand of God: Acts 1:9, Acts 1:11, Acts 2:33,
       Philippians 2:9-11, Hebrews 1:3
     (8). His ministry in the flesh was complete and victorious and He will not reincarnate:
       John 19:30, Hebrews 9:28, 1 John 3:2
     (9). He shall physically return to earth: Matthew 26:29, Revelation 19:11-21
   N. Disposition of Mary, the mother of Jesus, in relation to the Godhead: Jesus the Christ was the first son born of Mary, the wife of Joseph, and Scriptures refer to her as the mother of Jesus. Mary was the natural vessel that God chose that Christ may be manifested in the flesh, and to ascribe to her any other title other than "mother of Jesus" is unscriptural. Therefore, and whereas the Trinity is eternal, having no beginning and no ending, it is error to ascribe to her titles such "mother of God" or "mother of Christ". It is also error to ascribe worship to her, attempt to pray to her, assume that she was conceived immaculately, to state she did not have a sin nature, that she remained a virgin after the birth of Jesus, or that any grace given to man can be found in her. Matthew 1:25, Matthew 13:55, Luke 2:7 Luke 2:35, Luke 11:27-28, John 2:1-4, John 7:3-5, Acts 1:14, Romans 3:23, Romans 5:12, 1 Timothy 2:5
   O. The Deity Of The Holy Spirit(Ghost): The Scriptures declare that exclusive attributes of God are ascribed to the Holy Spirit. Psalm 139:7, John 4:24, Romans 1:4, 1 Corinthians 2:10, Hebrews 9:14
   P. The Person Of The Holy Spirit(Ghost): The Scriptures show that the Holy Spirit is not simply a 'force', but a Person of the Godhead. John 14:16, John 14:26, John 15:26, 1 Corinthians 12:11, Ephesians 4:30
   Q. The Image Of, And Purity Of The Godhead: Whereas throughout the Scriptures God is revealed as Father, Son, and Holy Ghost (Spirit), and female gender is never ascribed to God, it is error to say that the image of God is part male and part female based on Genesis 1:27 and any other verses. It is also error to say that God is part good and part evil, for He is entirely holy. Leviticus 11:44-45, Isaiah 6:3, Revelation 4:8

3. The Origin and Fall of Man

Man was created by God, in the image of God, and not did not evolve or mutate. Man was created good and upright but, by voluntary transgression, fell and thereby incurred both physical and spiritual death, spiritual death being separation from God. This fall resulted in the human race being depraved. Genesis 1:26,27, Genesis 2:17, Genesis 3:6, Isaiah 64:6 Romans 5:12-19, Romans 7:18

4. The Salvation For Man

A. Redemption through the shed blood of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Son of Man, is mankind's only hope of salvation. Salvation is received by repentance toward God and faith in Jesus Christ. By the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost, being justified by grace through faith, man becomes born again, a true child of God, hence, an heir of God, according to the hope of eternal life. Luke 24:47, John 3:3, Acts 4:10-12, Romans 10:9-10, Titus 3:5-7, Hebrews 9:28
B. Salvation is not attained or maintained by works, but it is attained and maintained through dedication to God through Christ, and Christ alone. Ephesians 2:8-10, Galatians 2:16, 2 Timothy 1:9
C. Such faith is evidenced by the fruit of the Spirit and the works of Christ in one's life (see holiness). Ephesians 4:24, Colossians 3:10, Titus 2:11-12
D. It is to be evidenced within the individual by the witness of the Holy Spirit. John 14:23, Romans 8:16, Galatians 4:6
E. The atonement of Christ is completely sufficient for the salvation of man, therefore no other being nor any agency, including the Church, can save man, nor can a regenerated person be demon possessed, although the same may be tempted, oppressed and/or given to obsession. John 14:30, John 19:30, Romans 10:4, Colossians 2:10, Hebrews 9:24-28
F. The Scriptures adjure us to remain in Christ. Therefore, one may lose their salvation, not on the basis of works, but upon the condition of their heart, which may include, but is not limited to, a displacement of our complete trust in Christ. Matthew 6:15, Matthew 18:35, John 15:4, Galatians 5:4, 1 Timothy 1:19, 1 John 2:24, Jude 21, Revelation 2:5

5. Sanctification (Holiness)

A. Sanctification is dedication to God through Christ and being separated from that which is evil. Romans 12:1-2, Galatians 5:24, Galatians 6:14, 1 Thessalonians 5:23, Hebrews 13:12
B. The Holy Scriptures teach a life of "holiness without which no man shall see the Lord." Hebrews 12:14, 1 Peter 1:15-16
C. We are to be partakers of the divine moral nature of God. Holiness is the predominate and foundational moral attribute of God. Deuteronomy 32:4, Psalm 99:5, 9, Isaiah 6:3, Romans 6:22, 2 Peter 1:4, Revelation 4:8
D. With the life of Christ, by the power of the Holy Ghost we are able to obey the command: "Be ye holy, for I am holy." Galatians 2:20, Hebrews 12:2, 1 Peter 1:15,16 1 Peter 2:5
E. Sanctification is realized in the believer by recognizing his, and partaking in, identification with Christ in His death and resurrection; and by dedicated faith reckoning daily upon the fact of that union; and by offering every portion of one's body, soul, and spirit continually to the dominion of the Holy Spirit. Romans 6:1-13, Romans 8:1,2. Romans 8:13, Galatians 2:20. Philippians 2:12,13, 1 Peter 1:5, 1 Peter 1:15,16
F. At the moment of salvation there is initial sanctification (Colossians 1:13, 2:10, Hebrews 2:11, Hebrews: 10:10-14) . As the believer remains in Christ and grows there is progressive sanctification (John 17:17-19, Ephesians 2:21, 1 Thessalonians 5:23), and at his resurrection or translation there is complete sanctification (Ephesians 5:26-27, Colossians 1:21-23, Jude 24).
G. True Christians are to put off the works of the flesh, and are not to condone the works of the flesh but reprove them. Ephesians 4:22-32, 5:11, Colossians 3:8-9

6. The Baptism in the Holy Ghost (Spirit) and the Charismata

The Baptism in the Holy Ghost (Spirit)
A. Every true Christian is entitled to, should fervently expect, and earnestly seek the promise of the Father, the baptism in the Holy Ghost, according to the command of our Lord Jesus Christ. This was the normal and expected experience of all in the early Christian Church. With it, the true Christian becomes the endued with power for life and service. Luke 24:49, Acts 1:4-5, Acts 1:8
B. The Baptism in the Holy Ghost(Spirit) is distinct from, and subsequent to, the experience of the new birth. Acts 8:12-17, Acts 10:44-46, Acts 11:14-16, Acts 15:7-9, Acts 19:1-7
C. With the baptism in the Holy Ghost come such experiences as: an overflowing fullness of the Spirit (John 7:37-39, Acts 4:8), a deepened reverence for God (Acts 2:43, Hebrews 12:28), an intensified consecration to God and dedication to His work, (Acts 2:42), a greater advantage in intercession (Romans 8:26), and a more active love for Christ, for His Word and for the lost (Acts 5:42).
D. Speaking in tongues, as the Holy Spirit gives utterance, is the initial physical evidence of the Baptism in the Holy Ghost. Acts 2:4, 10:45-46
E. In that miracles and wonders are also produced by satan, the fact that one speaks in tongues, or claims to speak in tongues, shall not be considered as proof of any salvation claimed by any individual or group. The Scriptures warn about "strange fire", which symbolically can represent false manifestations of the Holy Ghost. Exodus 7:11, Exodus 7:22, Exodus 8:7, Matthew 24:24, 2 Thessalonians 2:9 (false signs or wonders); Leviticus 10:1, Numbers 3:4, Numbers 26:61 (strange fire).
F. Every true Christian has the Holy Ghost dwelling within them, and, though for some reason they have not received the Baptism in the Holy Ghost, they are still a child of God. The baptism in the Holy Ghost is not necessary for salvation, however, as the Scriptures show, every Christian may, and should receive this blessed experience. Luke 1:15, Luke 1:67, John 14:26, Romans 5:5, Galatians 4:6, Ephesians 2: 18, Ephesians 3:16, Titus 3:5 (Holy Ghost in all); Luke 24:49, Acts 2:39, Galatians 3:14 (Baptism in the Holy Ghost for all believers)
The Charismata
G. Though same in essence, the baptism in the Holy Ghost, is distinct from the gift of tongues in 1 Corinthians 12 to 14, since the Greek word used in the book of Acts for "gift" (dorea) is different in meaning from the Greek word used for "gift" (charismata) in 1 Corinthians. The Greek word, "dorea" is simply defined as "gift", while the charisma is defined as "grace or gifts denoting extraordinary powers, distinguishing certain Christians and enabling them to serve the church of Christ, the reception of which is due to the power of divine grace operating on their souls by the Holy Spirit".
H. The gifts of the Holy Ghost are to be operating today in the body of Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:4-10, 1 Corinthians 12:28, 1 Corinthians 12:1-31, 1 Corinthians 13:10-12
I. 1 Cor. 13:8-13 - Whereas verse 8 of this passage shows the gifts of the Spirit are to vanish and verse 12 describes our spiritual condition when this occurs, and it is evident no Christian while in mortal flesh knows even as he is known, then the event in verse 10 describing when the gifts cease has not occurred. Therefore, as stated in "H", the gifts of the Spirit are for today. The general gift of the Holy Spirit described in Acts is also for today, for it is evident that we are in the "latter days." Because of these truths, and that of Psalm 119:89, it is error to say the Baptism of the Holy Spirit or the gifts of the Spirit ceased when the Bible was humanly completed, or when the original apostles died, or at any point in time past.

7. Divine Healing

Deliverance from all illnesses, including all psychological illnesses, is provided for in the atonement. Therefore Divine healing is an integral part of the Gospel. Isaiah 53:4,5, Matthew 8:16,17, Mark 5:1 to 15, 2 Timothy 1:7, James 5:14-16 , 1Peter 2:24-25

8. Marriage And Family

A. Marriage is that relationship between one man and one woman where, on the basis of mutual vow, love is expressed between the two, such expression includes fulfillment of sexual desire and the solemn privilege of procreation. This union is declared by Scriptures as holy and honorable, dissolvable only by the physical death of one of the two, and not by the writ and and/or action of man. Genesis 2:24, Malachi 2:13-16, Matthew 19:5-6, 1 Corinthians 7:3, 1 Corinthians 7:39, Ephesians 5:31, Hebrews 13:4
B. Divorce and remarriage to another while the former companion is still alive is adultery. Though divorce and remarriage to another can be forgiven, the grace of God does not dissolve a marriage. Mark 10:11-12, Luke 16:18, 1 Corinthians 7:39
C. Polygamy, though mentioned in Scripture, was never sanctioned by God, and Scriptures indicate it is not the will of God. Genesis 2:21-24, 1 Kings 11:3-4,Matthew 19:4-6
D. Regardless of any edict of man and any vows of individuals and, whereas marriage as defined by the Word of God is between one man and one woman, unions between those of the same sex, or involving bisexual activity, or with another creature, or any combination of the foregoing, and any future innovation of man, is not deemed marriage in the sight of God, but an abomination to the shame of the image of God in man. Exodus 22:19, Leviticus 20:15, Acts 5:29, Romans 1:21-28, Galatians 5:19
E. Sexual fulfillment is to be only between husband and wife. 1 Corinthians 5:1, 1 Corinthian 6:18, Ephesians 5:3, Colossians 3:5, 1 Thessalonians 4:3, 2 Timothy 2:22
F. No member of this fellowship shall perform, officiate, condone, encourage, or solemnize any union or actions described in paragraphs "B" to "E" in this section on Marriage and Family, nor anything contrary to paragraph "A" of the same. 2 Corinthians 6:14, Ephesians 5:3-12, Revelation 18:4

9. The Ordinances of the Church

A. Baptism in Water
1. All those who repent and believe on Jesus Christ as Savoir are commanded to be baptized in water. In so doing, they declare to the world that they have died with Christ and that they also have been raised with Him to walk in newness of life. Matthew 3:15-17, Mark 16:16, Acts 2:38, Acts 10:47, Romans 6:3-4, Galatians 3:27, Colossians 2:12
2. Water baptism does not save us. Mark 16:16, Acts 13:12, 1 Peter 3:21
3. The Lord Himself decreed that such should be baptized in the "Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost" Matthew 28:19
4. The mode of water baptism, whenever possible, is to be by immersion, since it more clearly symbolizes burial. Romans 6:3-4, Colossians 2:12
5. Scripture never commanded that infants be baptized in water. Belief in Christ must come before water baptism. Mark 16:16, Romans 10:9-10
6. There is no Scripture that states that water baptism makes one a member of the universal body of Christ.
7. Water baptism does not make one a member of the local church.
8. Baptism for the dead (1 Corinthians 15:29): Paul, by the Holy Spirit, demonstrates that this was a non-Christian practice when he wrote, "... what shall they do...". Nowhere is it found in Scripture that Christians baptized others on behalf of the dead. The Bible clearly states judgment follows death. Hebrews 9:27

B. The Lord's Supper
1. The Lord's Supper, consisting of the elements of bread and the fruit of the vine, is the symbol expressing our sharing the divine nature of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Peter 1:4), a memorial of his suffering and death (1 Corinthians 11:26), and a prophecy of His second coming (1 Corinthians 11:26), and is enjoined on all believers "till He come!"
2. Instituted by Christ during a Passover meal, the elements of the Lord's Supper are not the actual body and blood of Christ just as the Passover lamb was not Christ, nor was it ever Christ. Hebrews 9:12, Hebrews 9:24-28

10. The Church and Its Mission

A. The True Universal Body of Christ
  1. Every true born again Christian is a member of the true body of Christ, which is universal throughout the world. To believe on Christ means to completely trust and depend upon Him. Every true Christian is to ascribe absolute and complete loyalty to Christ alone. Daniel 6:5, 10, 13, Matthew 12:1, Luke 10:27, Acts 5:29, Romans 12:5, 1 Corinthians 12:12, 2 Corinthians 1:9
  2. The true Christian Church believes in the following Foundational Truths: One God as Father, Son, Holy Spirit; Christ is the only mediator in regard to salvation and other needs; that salvation is by the grace of God alone with such grace being received as a gift of God, not by our works; man must partake of the holiness of God and act upon it; and the Holy Bible is the Word of God supreme. Psalm 138:2, Proverbs 13:13, 28:9, Matthew 12:1, Acts 4:12, Galatians 2:16, Ephesians 4:6, Hebrews 12:14
  3. The main purposes of the true church are to worship God through Christ; evangelize the lost; and edify each other; and be the salt of the earth in that it not only must make people thirst for Christ but, with the Holy Spirit, be the preservative, the restraint for evil. Matthew 5:13, Romans 10:13-15, 1 Corinthians 14:26, Ephesians 5:11, Philippians 3:3
4. The Church is to be both the habitation and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 2:18-22, 1Peter 2:5
5. The True Church, since it is universal, cannot be construed to be one particular organization, denomination, movement, or anything similar. Luke 17:20-21, Hebrews 12:22-24
B. The Local Church
  1. The local church is the local expression of the true Church that has its own personal Scriptural distinctions, and adheres to the Foundational Truths listed above. Ezekiel 3:15, 1 Corinthians 9:19-23
  2. Individuals of the local church are to work together by the Holy Spirit to fulfill the purposes of the true church as mentioned above.1 Corinthians 3:9, 12:21 - 26
  3. Regardless whether or not the remainder of the body of Christ operates as a theocracy, this local church will retain the sense that fundamentally the operation of the Church is theocratic in nature and this theocratic foundation is to direct the other forms of Church government. Ephesians 5:23, Colossians 1:18
  4. Every true believer is a priest before God and a servant of Christ. 1 Peter 2:9, Revelation 1:6
C. Interface of the Local Church With The True Universal Church
  1. A degree of fellowship is to be enjoyed with others in the universal Church as long as the Foundational Truths in "A,2" exists and there is no compromise of the distinctions of the local church. Matthew 18:20
  2. Full fellowship is to be enjoyed with those that are likeminded according to this Statement Of Fundamental Truths. Acts 2:1
  3. Fellowship with any group or individual should not involve compromise. Galatians 5:9, Jude 2-3
  4. Unity of the body of Christ will not occur until Christ returns, therefore taking part in activities with other fellowships where one of the purposes is to promote unity is generally a waste of time and may encourage compromise. 1 Corinthians 13:12, Jude 12
D. The Local Church and Society
  1. The local church is to reach out to the unsaved in a meaningful way without compromise and without tarnishing of its testimony. Romans 1:8
  2. Meeting the needs of society is permitted in the Scripture, but the direct active witnessing of the church is never to be neglected, superceded by or replaced by meeting the social needs of those around us. Mark 16:15, 1 John 3:17
  3. The local church is to obey the laws of God ordained governments, but the written and the Holy Spirit directed commands of God are always to be followed, even if it means to disobey human law. Daniel 6:5, 10, 13, Acts 5:29, 1 Peter 3:13 -17
  4. Members of the church are members of society and should influence their society for Christ. Christians should never let society influence them in unscriptural ways. Matthew 5:14, 6:23, Mark 9:50, Luke 11:34
  5. God alone through Christ, and not human government, causes the Church to exist and should control the Church. Matthew 16:18, Ephesians 5:23, Colossians 1:18
  6. Financial support for this assembly shall be by tithes, offerings and donations. Though the assembly may conduct commerce, such commerce should never be considered to be, or be allowed to become, part of the financial income foundation for the church. Evangelism and meeting the needs of people are to be the primary reasons why the assembly would engage in commerce, and not the desire of financial gain, or in the establishment of a Christian education system or other Christian system, not the desire of financial gain above sensible needs. Malachi 3:8, Matthew 6:24
  7. This local church as a whole shall not conduct or engage in unnecessary commerce on the Lord's Day, Sunday, neither shall members conduct unnecessary commerce on the Lord's Day in the name of this church. However, a visiting minister approved by either the Council of Elders or Pastoral Council to minister at the church gathering on a Sunday, may sell items related to his ministry after review by either of these two councils. Exodus 16:15-30, Luke 14:5
  8. This assembly will not accept continuous contributions derived from gambling although, at the discretion of either the Council of Elders or the Pastoral Council, a one time incident with an organization or individual may be permitted providing the council involved uses the situation as a teaching opportunity to relate Scriptural lessons to the donor(s). The church as a whole shall not accept no greater than three of these incidents in a year. Gambling is the placing of money, or goods, or things of value at complete risk (such as, but not limited to, a lottery) or high risk (such as, but not limited to, certain card games). Unless the source of the contribution is evidently or obviously due to wholesome acquisition, the activated council, or the member or adherent receiving the contribution should ascertain, with all diligence yielding to the Holy Spirit to discern, how the contribution was acquired. When the means of acquisition cannot be known, the contribution shall be accepted but church records should indicate what measures were taken to determine how the contribution was acquired. Isaiah 65:11-12 (troop is also translated Fortune, number translated Fate or Fortune), Luke 12:15
    a. Contributions from other sinful activities, even if human government legalizes such activities at anytime, fall in the same category as gambling. Deuteronomy 23:18
    b. Regarding commercial events the church might engage in, it shall never engage in gambling or any other sinful activity. This includes games of chance (Bingo is one example), raffles, and any other events based on chance with the wagering of, or the expectation of gaining, money or goods. Ephesians 5:11
  9. The church, though it should provide for its elders, is not an employer except in certain aspects as established by the Council of Elders or Pastoral Council. Elders are never employees but are considered self-employed. Elders can never be employees because they are assigned by God, and directed by God in the administration of the church. 1 Corinthians 9:14, Ephesians 1:22
E. Ecumenicalism
We believe that there is a strong possibility that the woman of Revelation 17 and portions of 18, Babylon The Great Whore, is, at least in part, the apostate church, which the antichrist of Revelation 13 will destroy. We decline involvement in ecumenical activities to avoid both involvement in such a possibility and the comprise of Scriptural beliefs and standards. Revelation 17:1-18

11. The Ministry

A. All Christians
Every individual member of the universal body of Christ has ministry. Romans 12:1 - 8, Ephesians 5:30 Some are called by God to be dedicated to ministry in such a way that it is the predominant activity in their life above any vocation or pursuit. Galatians 1:15, Ephesians 4:11-16
B. Deacons and Bishops (Pastor, Elders)
Of all the offices and ministries in the New Testament, the positions of deacon and bishop (elder, pastor) are such that carry grave responsibilities that encompass the workings of the whole church. 1 and 2 Timothy, Titus
 1. Gender Terminology of New Testament Scriptures - Galatians 3:28 declares that there is neither male nor female in Christ. Privileges and the principles of responsibility remain the same for both genders, though proper subordination remains within the body of Christ and the family.1 Corinthians 11:3, Col. 3:18
 2. Women as Deacons or Pastors (Bishops, Elders)- The same Greek word for "deacon" is used for Phebe, a woman, but translated "servant" in Romans 16:1 and 27 (Ro 16:27 To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen. Written to the Romans from Corinthus, and sent by Phebe servant of the church at Cenchrea). This, with Galatians 3:28, indicates that a woman may be a deacon. Galatians 3:28 also indicates a woman may be a pastor (bishop, elder).
C. Deacons
 1. The New Testament Scriptures show a close working relationship of the deacons with the elders (bishops, pastors)[see Philippians 1:1] in serving the church. They must be called of God and meet the Scriptural qualifications. 1 Timothy 3:8-13
D. Bishops, pastors, elders... (Ephesians 4:11, 1 Peter 5:1-2)-
 1 - ...are those that have oversight of a church. They must be called of God and meet the Scriptural qualifications. 1 Timothy 3:1-7,Titus 1:5-9
E. The Husband Of One Wife - 1 Timothy 3:2, 3:12, and Titus 1:6:
 1. One Spouse - The Scriptures show that pastors (bishops, elders) and deacons must be the husband of one wife. The Scriptures also show, as noted in subparagraphs 1 and 2 of paragraph "B", that women may also minister in these capacities and thus, if married, are to be the wife of one husband.1 Timothy 3:2, 12, Titus 1:6
 2. Divorced and Remarried- Whereas the New Testament Scriptures clearly show that divorce does not dissolve a marriage, one divorced and remarried to another cannot be placed in the office of bishop (elder, pastor) or deacon. Genesis 2:24, Malachi 2:13-16, Matthew 19:5-6, 1 Corinthians 7:3, 1 Corinthians 7:39
 3. Divorced and Remarried Prior To Salvation - Though divorce and remarriage to another can be forgiven, the grace of God does not erase any historical fact that may impair one's service to God in the office of deacon or bishop (pastor, elder). 2 Timothy 2:4
 4. Proper direction - Whereas any other stance in regard to the divorced and remarried is contrary to all Scripture, is in grave error, promotes unsound hermeneutics, deteriorates moral fortitude in regard to marriage, and displaces holy truths and principles set forth in the sovereign Word of God, disciples that are divorced and remarried to another shall be encouraged and guided to fulfill their spiritual desire to serve in any capacity within the church except for the offices of bishop (pastor, elder) and deacon. Genesis 2:24, Malachi 2:13-16, Matthew 19:5-6, 1 Corinthians 7:3, 1 Corinthians 7:39
 5. Polygamy- The one spouse requirement of the Holy Scriptures also refers to polygamy.
 6. Those Not Married- By "not married" is meant "never married" or married and spouse(s) have physically died. Though 1 Timothy 3:2, 3:12, and Titus 1:6 state that certain offices within the body of Christ must be filled by one who is the "husband of one wife", and whereas Christ Himself, though married to the Church, never married an individual woman, those not married may hold such offices within the Church, providing they meet the other Scriptural requirements. 1 Corinthians 9:5
F. Apostles- In brief, the definition of the Greek word for "apostle" is "a delegate, messenger, one sent forth with orders". This, with the historical evidence of Acts and other portions of the Holy Scripture indicate that "apostle" is synonymous with "missionary".
G. Evangelists- The definition for this Greek word is "a bringer of good tidings, an evangelist" or "the name given to the NT heralds of salvation through Christ who are not apostles."
H. Prophets- Both Old and New Testaments speak of prophets, and these are shown as people upon whom the Spirit of God rests and dwells within to emphatically proclaim the Word of God by the direction of the Holy Spirit.
I. Ephesians 4:11- By context, "church" in this passage refers to the universal church. Therefore it is not a requirement that every local church has to fill all these offices.

12. The Blessed Hope (The Rapture)

The resurrection of those who have died in Christ, and their translation together with those in Christ who are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord, is the blessed and imminent hope of the church. Romans 8:23, 1 Corinthians 15:51,52, 1 Thessalonians 4:16,17, Titus 2:13

13. The Second Coming of Christ

The second coming of Christ includes the rapture of the church, which is our blessed hope, followed by the visible return of Christ with His saints to reign on earth for one thousand years (millennial reign). Zechariah 14:4, Matthew 24:27, 30, Jude 14,15, Revelation 1:7, 19:11-16, 20:1-6
A. The time, in regard to what day and year of the events, is unknown nor was it the intent of God to make it known. Therefore, no one should fix a date for the return of Christ. Matthew 24:36, 25:13, Mark 13:32
B. The timing of the rapture in regard to the Great Tribulation is not as important as the command of Jesus Christ: "Be ye ready." Matthew 24:44, Luke 12:40
C. 2 Thess. 2:7 - Whereas the Deity of the Holy Spirit is evident in Scripture as shown above, it is error and a displacement of the truth of the Holy Trinity to say simply the Holy Spirit shall be completely removed from earth or from mankind in any point of time. "Taken out of the way" could mean that the restraining force of the Holy Spirit would cease for a time, or allude to the rapture of the Church, the male gender used to show the union of the Holy Spirit and the Church.
D. The return to Christ to earth to set up His Kingdom is a visible return. Acts 9:1-11, Revelation 1:7
E. The glorious spiritual salvation of national Israel will occur when Christ returns Ezekiel 37:21,22, Zephaniah 3:19,20, Romans 11:26,27
The millennial reign brings the establishment of universal peace on earth. Psalm 72:3-8, Isaiah 11:6-10, Micah 4:3,4

14. The Final Judgment

There will be a final judgment in which the wicked dead will be raised, condemned because they have not accepted Christ, and judged according to their works. Whosoever is not found written in the Book of Life, together with the devil and his angels, the beast and the false prophet, will be consigned to the everlasting punishment in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone, which is the second death. Daniel 12:2, Matthew 25:46, Mark 9:43-48, Jude 12 -15, Revelation 19:20, Revelation 20:11-15, Revelation 21:8

15. The New Heavens and the New Earth

"We, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth wherein dwelleth righteousness." 2 Peter 3:13, Revelation 21 and 22

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