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Christian
mission is rooted in unchanging biblical revelation. At particular
times, however, specific challenges to authentic faith and holiness
arise which require thoughtful and vigorous response. We therefore speak
to the following issues of our time and culture.
The Uniqueness of Jesus Christ
While religions and philosophies of the world are not without
elements of truth, Jesus Christ alone is the full revelation of God. In
and through the Gospel, Jesus judges and corrects all views and
doctrines. All persons everywhere need to learn of him, come to know and
believe in him, and receive forgiveness and new life in him, as there is
no other name given under heaven by which we must be saved. (Acts 4:12)
Church and State
Biblical social commandments and Christian ethical principles
are foundational to the well being of every society. Recognizing the
call of Christians to be faithful witnesses and a challenging presence
in society, we are committed to seek ways to express these commandments
and principles in all spheres of life, including the public life of the
nation.
Sanctity of Life
All human life is a sacred gift from God and is to be
protected and defended. We will uphold the sanctity of life and bring
the grace and compassion of Christ to those who face the realities of
abortion, unwanted pregnancy and end-of-life illness.
True Inclusivity
In grateful response to Christ Jesus, in whom there is
neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, we will extend
the welcome of the church to every person, regardless of race, sex,
social or economic status, sexual orientation, or past behavior. We will
oppose prejudice in others and ourselves and renounce any false notion
of inclusivity that denies that we are all sinners who need to repent.
Marriage Family
God has instituted marriage to be a life-long union of
husband and wife, intended for their mutual joy, help and comfort, and,
when it is God’s will, for the procreation and nurture of children.
Divorce is always contrary to God’s original intention, though in a
fallen world it is sometimes a tragic necessity. The roles of father and
mother, exercised in a variety of ways, are God-given and profoundly
important since they are the chief providers of moral instruction and
godly living. God honors the single life, either by call or by
circumstance. It is therefore important for unmarried persons to embrace
and be embraced by the Christian family.
Human Sexuality
Sexuality
is inherent in God’s creation of every human person in his image as male
and female. All Christians are called to chastity: husbands and wives by
exclusive sexual fidelity to one another and single persons by
abstinence from sexual intercourse. God intends and enables all people
to live within these boundaries, with the help and in the fellowship of
the Church. |
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