Our vision reflects seven basic, core values-distinctive priorities that define the kind of church we believe God wants us to be. They are central to our identity and purpose. As a church, we are committed to being:
Personally Authentic
We believe God intends us to live life honestly. Not afraid to admit our flaws and fears, not pressured to pretend we're someone we're not. We believe God accepts people right where they are and lovingly moves them toward where He desires them to be. We're committed to living authentic lives with God, with ourselves, and with each other (Matthew 5:37; Romans 15:7; Galatians 6:2; James 5:16).
Lovingly Relational
We believe that spiritual growth happens best in caring relationships, where people actively participate in a small community of believers that encourages, challenges, prays, serves, and learns together. We believe that the small (cell) group is the most effective context for discipleship, leadership training, and evangelism. When joined together, these cells form a church that is a purposeful, loving community. We are committed to developing an expanding network of cell groups, and to a church structure that keeps them at the center of our programming, emphasis, and organization (Acts 2:42-47; Galatians 6:1-2; Ephesians 4:1-16).
Culturally Relevant
We believe God wants to reach people in ways that are meaningful to them. Our style is contemporary. We're not interested in passing fads or gimmicks, we simply want to use the clearest, most effective means possible to communicate God's message. We are committed to presenting the truths of Christianity in a creative and relevant manner without compromising the gospel in any way (Acts 17:16-34; 1 Corinthians 9:19-23).
Unapologetically Biblical
We believe the Bible is true; that it is authoritative and applicable to every part of our lives. While we are progressive in our methods, we are conservative in theology, grounded securely to the truths of historic, evangelical Christianity. We study, teach, and follow Scripture as our sole authority and guidebook for life. We are committed to being thoroughly Biblical and doctrinally pure in all we do (John 17:14-17; Ephesians 6:17; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:14-17; Hebrews 4:12).
Outreach Oriented
We believe the answers for all of life and eternity are found in a restored personal relationship with God through faith in Christ. We are committed to spreading His love and message to those who don't yet know it, empowering people to express their faith confidently and naturally, and cultivating purposeful relationships with unbelievers. We are dedicated to expanding our outreach-both personally and corporately-to our friends, family, community, and world (Matthew 28:18-20; 1 Corinthians 9:19-23).
Lay-Ministry Mobilized
We believe God never intended church to be a spectator sport, but that He gives vital spiritual gifts to every believer. We believe their discovery, development, and exercise are the primary instrument of Christ to minister to His body. We are committed to helping people serve each other according to their spiritual gifts, strengthening each other until all reach full maturity (Romans 12:3-8; Ephesians 4:1-16; 1 Peter 4:8-11).
Grace Focused
We believe the central, driving force of the universe and in our lives is the unmerited grace and love of God. We believe His grace alone-not our effort or accomplishment-is responsible for producing eternal life, freedom from sin and its control, and lasting change in an individual's character. We are committed to focusing on and celebrating that grace, and fostering an environment that reflects it in our lives and relationships (Romans 4:5; 5:20-21; 8:31-39; Ephesians 2:1-10).
