Introduction to the Assembly: Position Papers

Abstinence from Alcohol

The Bible clearly teaches against drunkenness.

Today’s alcohol is much stronger than in biblical times

Wine of the biblical era generally had a lower alcohol content.

The original language of the Bible shows that what we simply call wine was differentiated between strong wine and diluted wine.

The distillation process for liquors had not yet been fully developed.

Regarding Christian liberty and and moderation

1 Corinthians 6:12 ESV

“All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be dominated by anything.

Romans 14:21 ESV

It is good not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything that causes your brother to stumble.

The Assembly’s stance on abstinence from alcohol

Abstinence is a choice, not a command.

To choose abstinence reflects the Bible’s warnings of how easily alcohol consumption can turn to alcohol abuse.

Abstinence is not about legalism, but about discipleship, which involves self-denial and following Christ.

Apostles and Prophets

There is a current trend among certain expressions of Christianity, especially in certain Pentecostal and Charismatic groups, to appoint the title of Apostle or Prophet to certain individuals. While the AG believes that the church is apostolic in nature, there is no provision in scripture for the appointment of apostles past the original ones appointed by Jesus. Furthermore, this trend leads to the exaltation of individuals rather than the equipping of all God’s people for ministry. As believers, we should always research the spiritual integrity and reliability of anyone who seeks to teach , minister, or pastor.

Assurance of Salvation

Salvation is offered to all through Jesus. Each individual has the free will to accept or reject this offer of salvation. A person who has been saved can choose to reject what they have received from God and abandon salvation.

Baptism in the Holy Spirit

The Doctrine of Creation

The Assemblies of God affirms that all the universe is the result of an intelligent Creator who constructed in a process of order and with purpose.

Church Mission and Peacemaking

The church’s mission is just as much about addressing injustices of our time as it is about evangelism and discipleship. The Assemblies of God movement deplores war. We are committed to its avoidance as much as it is possible. We are not, however, pacifistic. Each individual has the right to choose their position as a combatant, noncombatant, or conscientious objector.

Divine Healing

Divorce and Remarriage

The Bible clearly defines marriage as a lifelong union between a man and a woman. Marriage is a covenant, an unending binding agreement made before God. While the Bible cites examples of polygamy, it is always a negative depiction, illustrating that marriage is intended to be monogamous. Divorce is harmful, and should be avoided, if possible.

The Assemblies of God recognizes exceptions for divorce and does not hold Christians responsible for the actions of their spouses. Christians are not responsible for divorces outside of their control. If someone entered marriage through deceit or by force, the marriage may be annulled in recognition that there was no real covenant between two willing parties.

In the case of ministers and church leaders, remarriage after divorce is not an option except under specific conditions.

Domestic Violence

The Final Judgment

Gambling

Gambling disregards responsible stewardship.

Homosexuality, Marriage, and Sexual Identity

Inspiration, Inerrancy, and Authority of Scripture

Kingdom of God

Leadership and Governance in the Local Church

Ordination

Persons with Disabilities in the Ministry of the Church

The Believer and Positive Confession

Premillennial Eschatology

Racism

Rapture of the Church

Reformed Theology

Revival and Spiritual Renewal

Sanctity of Human Life, Abortion and Reproductive Issues

Sanctity of Human Life, Suicide and Euthanasia

Spiritual Warfare and the Believer

Transgenderism, Transsexuality, and Gender Identity

Women in Ministry

Worship in the Bible