B - BIBLE AS OUR SOLE AUTHORITY - All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. - 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV)
The Bible is the basis for all we believe. Since God’s word is the only completely reliable and truthful authority, we accept the Bible as our manual for living. Our first and ultimate question when faced with a decision is, “What does the Bible say?”
A - AUTONOMY OF EACH LOCAL CHURCH - And He is the head of the body, the church; He is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead So that in everything He might have the supremacy. Colossians 1:18 (NIV)
Christ is the recognized head our church, not any person, group, or religious organization. While recognizing the value of associating and cooperating with other groups of Christians, we believe that every local church should be self-governing and independent from any denominational control.
P - PREISTHOOD OF EVERY BELIEVER - But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light. - 1 Peter 2:9 (NIV)
The “priesthood of every believer” means that every believer has access to God through prayer and scripture. Likewise, the Bible teaches that every Christian is called to “full-time” Christian service, regardless of his or her vocation. We seek to practice the truth that every believer is a minister by encouraging every member of MSMBC to find a place of service within the congregation.
T – TITHING - On the first of every week, each one you should set aside a sum of money on keeping with his income, saving it up. - 1 Corinthians 16:2 (NIV)
We believe the Lord’s work should not be financed through fund-raisers and gimmicks. Believers should give regularly, intentionally, proportionally, sacrificially, and cheerfully for the ongoing ministry of the church. We believe the tithe (10% of one’s income) is a good biblical standard and great starting-point for Christian giving.
I - IMMERSION BAPTISM -“Therefore go and make disciples or all nations, baptizing them in the name of the father and the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” - Matthew 28:19 (NIV)
We practice baptism by immersion under water – the way Jesus was baptized, and the way the Bible commands.
S - SPIRIT-LED LIVING - But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law. - Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)
We believe that the only possible way to live the Christian life is by God’s power within us. So, we seek to practice a daily dependence on God’s Spirit to develop Christ-likeness within us.
T - TELLING OTHERS ABOUT CHRIST - But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. - 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)
It is the responsibility of every Christ-follower to share the Good News with those God brings us into contact with. We therefore practice personally sharing our faith and inviting our family and friends to church.
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