What We Believe - St Paul’s United Methodist Church
Beliefs
Introduction
Welcome to the St Paul’s United Methodist Church website, where we share our beliefs and values that shape our community and guide us in serving others.
About St Paul’s United Methodist Church
St Paul’s United Methodist Church is a vibrant and inclusive community located in the heart of our town. Our purpose is to worship God, foster personal spiritual growth, and make a positive impact on the lives of individuals and families.
Our Faith and Beliefs
At St Paul’s United Methodist Church, we hold firmly to the teachings of the Bible and the principles of the United Methodist Church. Our faith is rooted in the belief in one God, revealed in the Holy Trinity - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
The Holy Scriptures
The Bible is the foundation of our faith and the ultimate authority for all matters of belief and practice. We believe that the Scriptures contain all that is necessary for salvation, and we strive to understand, interpret, and live by its teachings.
God
We believe in the one true, living God who created the heavens and the earth. God is eternal, all-powerful, and infinitely loving. Our relationship with God is a personal one, and we are called to love and worship Him with our whole heart, soul, and mind.
Jesus Christ
We believe in Jesus Christ as the Son of God, who became human to reveal God's love and redeem humanity from sin and death. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus offers forgiveness of sins and eternal life to all who believe in Him.
The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit, sent by God, empowers and equips believers for the work of ministry, enabling us to grow in faith and live out the teachings of Jesus Christ. The Spirit comforts, guides, and transforms us, bringing forth the fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Sin and Salvation
We acknowledge that humankind is inherently sinful and separated from God. Salvation comes through God's grace alone, which is received by faith. It is by God's unmerited favor that we are forgiven, reconciled to God, and given the gift of eternal life.
The Church
The Church is the body of Christ, called to gather in worship, nurture, and fellowship. We are called to reach out to others with love and compassion, sharing the Good News of Jesus and serving those in need. As a community of believers, we seek to grow in discipleship and encourage one another in our faith journey.
Sacraments
We recognize two sacraments, Baptism and Holy Communion. Through Baptism, we are initiated into the Christian community and marked as belonging to Christ. Holy Communion is a sacred act of remembering the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and participating in His presence through the sharing of bread and wine.
Christian Living
As followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to live lives that reflect His teachings and example. We strive to love and serve our neighbors, seek justice and peace, care for the marginalized, and steward God's creation. We believe that faith without action is incomplete, and we actively engage in service and mission within our community and beyond.
Conclusion
St Paul’s United Methodist Church is a community of faith, where we celebrate God's love, grow in discipleship, and serve others. We invite you to join us on this journey as we seek to make a difference in the world and share the message of hope, love, and salvation.
