My approach to ministry is guided by the following Biblical beliefs and values.
THE LOST
I believe that lost people matter to God, and therefore, ought to matter to the church. This value includes the concepts of relational evangelism and evangelism as a process. The seeker should be given the freedom to investigate Christianity at his/her own pace. Luke 5:30-32; Luke 15; Matthew 18:14
CULTURAL RELEVANCE AND FORMAT
I believe that the church should be culturally relevant while remaining doctrinally pure. This value includes the concept of sensitively relating to our culture through musical styles, drama presentations, printed materials, and other various media formats. I believe that excellence honors God and inspires people and so I also value the concepts of evaluation, review and intensity. 1 Corinthians 9:19-23; Colossians 3:17; Malachi 1:6-14, Proverbs 27:17
THE CHURCH
Church is a way of life, not an activity, event, or something we ‘go to’. It is a commitment each person makes to a seven day a week, twenty-four hour a day lifestyle. We do not "go" to church, we seek to ‘be’ the church at all times, everywhere. I value calling each member to this lifestyle. We find support and encouragement for this lifestyle in small groups of eight to twelve people. I believe that Christ-followers should manifest authenticity and yearn for continuous growth. This value includes personal authenticity, character, and wholeness. I believe in the equal value and worth of all people, regardless of gender or economic, racial or ethnic status. Ephesians 4:25-26, 32; Hebrews 12:1; Philippians 1:6 I believe that the pursuit of full devotion to Christ and His cause is normal for every believer. This value includes the concepts of stewardship, servant hood, downward mobility, and the pursuit of kingdom goals. 1 Kings 11:4; Philippians 2:1-11; 2 Corinthians 8:7
MINISTRY
I believe that a church should operate as a unified community of servants, with men and women stewarding their spiritual gifts. This value includes the concepts of unity, servant hood, spiritual gifts, and ministry callings. 1 Corinthians 12 & 14; Romans 12; Ephesians 4; Psalm 133 I believe the church and all its ministries should be led by men and women with leadership gifts. This value includes the concepts of empowerment, servant leadership, strategic focus, and intentionality. I believe all believers in Christ are created to invest somewhere in the disciple-making process. Nehemiah 1-2; Romans 12:8; Acts 6:2-5
COMMUNITY
I believe that life-change happens best in small groups, or cell churches. This value includes the concepts of discipleship, vulnerability, and accountability. Luke 6;12-13; Acts 2:44-47. I believe that loving relationships should permeate every aspect of church life. This value includes the concepts of love-driven ministry accomplished in teams, and relationship building. Corinthians 13; Nehemiah 3; Luke 10:1; John 13:34-35