How We Hold Our Convictions
How we handle disagreement
We believe the Christian faith is not simply a list of doctrines we agree with. At its heart is the good news: God has made Himself known. Humanity has wandered from Him. Jesus has come to save us and restore what was broken. The Holy Spirit is at work in us. And the King is coming again to make all things new.
We draw our beliefs from the Bible. We believe Scripture is God's Word and the final authority for what we believe and how we live.
At the same time, we recognize that Christians who faithfully seek to follow Scripture may reach different conclusions on matters that are not central to the Gospel. We want to hold such convictions with humility and love, keeping what Scripture makes central at the center: Jesus Christ, His Gospel, and the unity of His people. Our differences should never be allowed to overshadow these truths or unnecessarily divide Christ's Church.
How tightly do we hold it?
Tap anywhere inside a ring.
The Gospel
Jesus Christ crucified for sinners, raised from the dead, reigning now, and returning as King. This is the center. We do not soften it, set it aside, or move it to the margins for the sake of agreement. There is no PORCH without it.
Held with our livesConvictions
What we understand Scripture to teach clearly, and what shapes how we gather, teach, and lead as a church. These are convictions we believe Scripture calls us to hold and practice, so we hold them firmly and teach them plainly. We don’t pretend they are matters of taste.
Held firmly, taught plainlyPreferences
Matters of wisdom, timing, practice, and style — places where brothers and sisters who love the same Bible may faithfully land in different places. Here we make room, assume the best, and refuse to let a preference become a wall.
Held with an open hand