This is a summary of the core beliefs of our church, i.e. doctrinal basis.

We hold these in common with other Bible-believing churches in the city, and all over the world:

1. Concerning God

God is three persons in one.

He is the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. He is Creator and Sustainer of all things. He knows all things (Omniscient). He can do anything he wishes (Sovereign). God is love – this is demonstrated in God’s goodness to all men and women in general, but particularly in sending his Son, Jesus Christ, to be a sacrifice of atonement for the sin of the world.

God is holy, abhorring all evil. This moral character is expressed in law, summarised in the Ten Commandments. God’s character has always been and will always be the same (Eternal, Immutable). God has spoken to men in various ways but supremely through his Son (2 Peter 1:21, Hebrews 1:1, 2). This revelation is recorded in the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. The Bible is the Word of God. As originally given it is infallible. It is the final authority in all matters of faith and conduct, being inerrant and sufficient. (2 Timothy 3:16, 17).

2. Concerning man

Man was originally created in the image of God capable of a personal relationship with God, with authority over the rest of creation. Man deliberately rebelled against God, and ever since the entire human race has been sinful and guilty: Nevertheless God’s image, though spoiled, remains in human beings (James 3:9). Humanity’s whole nature is in opposition to God and his ways both in outward acts and inwards disposition; it is not in our nature to regain fellowship with God. All people are under God’s wrath, liable to condemnation and the eternal punishment of hell. The only way of salvation is through Jesus Christ.

3. Concerning Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ is the Son of God, co-equal with God the Father and God the Holy Spirit. He has been from before all things. By Him all things now hold together (Colossians 1:16, 17). He became a real man; conceived in the womb of Mary, a virgin, by the power of the Holy Spirit, born in Bethlehem. Although a real man he had no sin. When he was crucified he bore the sin of the world (1 John 2:2). He took the wrath and punishment of God instead of sinners (2 Corinthians 5:18-21 etc).

The resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead is a historical fact.

He has ascended into heaven, from where he now rules all things in power and glory having taken the office and continuing ministry of Mediator and High Priest on behalf of his people (Hebrews 7:24-26).

On the basis of an objective, completed atonement God offers salvation freely to all people everywhere. They must put their trust in Christ alone.

Jesus Christ will come again in splendour for all to see. He will bring final and full salvation for his people, and fearful punishment for people who do not believe in Him. (2 Thessalonians 1:7-9)

4. Concerning a Christian

A Christian is someone born again by the Holy Spirit. Their life and personality are transformed so that they believe in, love, and obey Jesus Christ.

A Christian is saved by grace through faith regardless of anything they have done. Their sins are forgiven freely by God, the Holy Spirit dwells within them, this person is an adopted child of God and can call God his Father. He or she can never be snatched away from God, but will in the end be brought to glory. The Christian’s life on earth continues to involve a struggle against sin, the flesh, the world, and Satan. (Romans 6, 7, 8-13 etc)

We are in full agreement with the FIEC basis of faith.