Priorities and Values

We believe these are the priorities/strategy/values that God has revealed He is most glorified and enjoyed in a congregation:

  1. To know God, in Christ, (Isaiah 30:11; Jeremiah 9:6; 24:7; 31:34; John 14:8-11; 17:3; I Corinthians 2:16; Ephesians 3:16-19; Hebrews 8:11), not just know about Him.
  2. Aim to glorify God by glorifying Christ in everything. (Philippians 1:18)
  3. Understand and live according to the whole Gospel of Jesus Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 12:1-2)

  4. Clearly understood, biblical oversight of the congregation (Hebrews 13:7, 17; Acts 6:1-4)

  5. Vision/Mission, Plan/Strategy (Matthew 28:18-20; I Peter 2:5) [The numbered list on this page you are currently reading reflects what we believe is God’s plan/strategy for manifesting His glory in the church; therefore, we claim it as our plan/strategy for our congregation.]

  6. Fervent, holy love for God and all saints with humility, gentleness, kindness, etc. (I Corinthians 13:1-8)

  7. Greater prayer involvement: individuals, families, groups, corporate worship (Matthew 9:37-38)

  8. Training and praying for laborers, especially laborers in the Word: Elders, Teachers, Evangelists, Deacons (Romans 15:30)

  9. Communicate to promote / report God’s glory and strengthen our relationships (Family Visitation, Announcements and Bulletin, Congregational and “Town Hall” Meetings, All Groups: Prayer, Study, Service)

  10. Public Worship (Psalm 96, 122; Matthew 5:23-24; Acts 20:20; Hebrews 10:24-25)
    Note: Public Worship includes and promotes many of the things listed above. You’re finding it this far down our list just to show that the things above are prerequisite to God’s pleasure in our public worship, e.g., Matthew 5:23-24.

  11. Outreach to those with whom we have some kind of relationship (Luke 15) We aspire to foster an atmosphere of outreach / evangelism / hospitality among the members of our congregation by highlighting helpful tools and by providing training in speaking to others about Who Christ is and what He has done to benefit His people.

  12. Gospel-Centered Education and Edification of God’s people in community which encourages us in our faith. We aim to develop a culture of making disciples by word, prayer, fellowship, enjoying each other’s gifts, bearing one another’s burdens, etc. (Psalm 67) This is what we mean by “mutual edification”.

  13. Outreach toward those with whom we have no previous relationship (Acts 13:46-49; II Timothy 2:10)

  14. Other Service (Building, Finances, etc.)