Values

It is important to recognize what values shape our worship, life, and ministry.

• Truth and Meaning – the truth sets us free and gives meaning to life. The Bible is more than a guidebook. It is the truth and is as relevant today as it was millennia ago. Rather than clinging to things in this life for our security and significance, we should relinquish them and find our ultimate satisfaction in God. 
• Gospel Centrality – “it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes…” (Romans 1:16). The gospel is the central message of the Bible. It is the story of man’s rebellion and God’s redemption; that sinners are forgiven and acceptable to God solely because of the completed work of Jesus Christ. The gospel produces change in the way we live. Therefore, it is central to everything we think (mind), feel (emotions), and do (will).
• Authenticity – in our worship and community life. As we worship we are not putting on a show. Nor do we need to pretend we have it all together. Rather we bring our burdens to worship and expect to find rest in God. As we interact in community groups we are open and honest about our struggles, sins, and weaknesses. Since we know our own need for the gospel, we welcome those seeking spiritual things and those who are skeptical.

• Transformed Lives – being forgiven gives us freedom to passionately pursue life the way God intended. A changed life gives us the opportunity to dialogue with others about Jesus. It’s not about doing better or being nicer. It’s about being a new person and having a whole new object of worship. This change doesn’t normally occur in isolation, but through the word of God, the work of the Holy Spirit, and the fellowship of believers. The gospel changes everything. It transforms our lives individually, builds up families, breaks down walls of separation, and benefits the community.
• Church Multiplication – the church is both the result and agent of proclaiming the gospel. Continually beginning new churches is the best way to advance the Kingdom of God and restrain the tide of sin and suffering. Therefore, we take risks for the kingdom and explore various ways of beginning new churches most effectively remembering that when we are weak then we are strong.
• Cultural Renewal – Jesus did not simply establish a church, but a Kingdom. This Kingdom is not against the culture, nor does it condone wrong. It is a Kingdom that is redeeming and renewing our entire culture. Every sphere of life should bring honor to God. Following Jesus’ example requires us to go to our community and interact with them where they are rather than expecting them to come to us. To affect cultural renewal it will require us to be leaders and influencers within organizational structures in the community. It will require that we set examples in promoting justice and in showing mercy to those in need.