Untitled Sermon

I believe the church is both universal and local. The universal church describes all who belong to Jesus in every place and age (Heb. 12:23; Eph. 1:22-23). The local church describes the gathered congregations that embody this reality in a particular time and place (1 Cor. 1:2; Acts 14:23). These are distinct but interdependent uses of the one biblical term “church” (Matt. 16:18; Acts 9:31). Both share one faith, one hope, and one mission (Eph. 4:4-6).

I believe the church is the people of God, the body of Christ, and the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Pet. 2:9-10; 1 Cor. 12:27; Eph. 2:21-22). We are set apart to worship God, to proclaim the gospel, to make disciples, to build one another up in love, and to bear faithful witness in the world (John 4:24; Matt. 28:19-20; Eph. 4:11-16; Phil. 2:15). Our life together is ordered by the Word, empowered by the Spirit, and oriented to the glory of God (Acts 2:42; Gal. 5:16; 1 Cor. 10:31).

I believe Scripture gives principles for church leadership but does not prescribe a single comprehensive polity (Acts 6:3-6; 15:6-22). I favor a pattern with regional oversight and collaboration, local pastors, ruling elders, and a defined congregational voice (Acts 15:2; Titus 1:5; Phil. 1:1). In our church, the elders lead and guard the flock (1 Pet. 5:1-3). One elder, or several, may serve vocationally as pastors; others serve as lay elders (1 Tim. 5:17). Elders propose new elders and major directions; the congregation confirms them and approves matters such as budget and mission sending (Acts 14:23; 2 Cor. 2:6). Deacons lead in service and mobilize practical care (Acts 6:1-4). Elders and pastors should be above reproach, faithful in marriage, self-controlled, hospitable, gentle, and able to teach; deacons should be dignified and tested (1 Tim. 3:1-10; Titus 1:5-9). I believe women as deacons is reasonable and biblical, but I do not affirm women as qualifying for the roles of elder or pastor (Rom. 16:1; 1 Tim. 2:12; 3:2).

I believe Christ gave two sacraments or ordinances to His church, baptism and the Lord’s Supper (Matt. 28:19; 1 Cor. 11:23-26). Baptism is a decisive, covenantal sign and seal of God’s saving work, publicly marking new birth, forgiveness, and incorporation into Christ’s body (Rom. 6:3-4; Acts 2:38; 1 Cor. 12:13; Col. 2:11-12). I support believers’ baptism and remain open to the historic case for infant baptism (Acts 16:15, 33). The Lord’s Supper is the continual covenant act of communion with Christ (Luke 22:19-20). Through worthy participation in the body and blood of Christ, we remember His sacrifice, proclaim His victory, and partake in the grace offered through communion with our Lord (1 Cor. 10:16; 11:26-29).