What We Believe

At Grace we believe the gospel of Jesus Christ – his life, death and resurrection – is God’s story and it changes everything about us and the world we live in! Here is a brief description of some distinctives of our faith.

THE HUMAN CONDITION
Because of the fall, we are more sinful than we could ever imagine (Jeremiah 17:9). Not only have we been charged with Adam’s sin (Romans 5:12-19), but we’re also responsible for our own sin. In our fallen state, and without God’s saving help, we are spiritually unable to choose to love and obey God (Romans 3:9-20, 8:5-8). We are all in this same boat—desperately in need of God’s grace.

THE INITIATIVE OF GOD, THE FATHER
Because of our inherent brokenness and sin, we need God to pursue us, which He certainly does. Why does He do this? Because, while we are more sinful than we could ever imagine, we’re also more loved than we had ever dreamed! By His grace, God takes the initiative in establishing a relationship with us, reaches down, captures our heart, and invites us into an irresistible relationship with Himself (John 6:37-39, II Thessalonians 2:13-14).

THE WORK OF JESUS, THE SON
God didn’t just come up with the idea of salvation. He actually provided the way of salvation through His Eternal Son, Jesus Christ. (John 10:14-15, Ephesians 5:25-27). On the cross of Jesus, we see God’s astounding mercy for all who believe (I John 4:10, Romans 5:10, Galatians 3:13). In other words, the cross was not just an act of goodwill with great potential – it was a fully effective act of redemption for all who believe.

THE MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
Through the Holy Spirit’s ministry God transforms our lives. How? By convincing us of our sin and misery, enlightening our minds in the knowledge of Christ and capturing our hearts with His love and mercy (Ezekiel 36:25-27). The Spirit of God opens our eyes to the beauty of Jesus Christ (John 6:44-45, Philippians 2:13).

THE PROMISE OF THE GOSPEL
He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it (Philippians 1:6). In other words, the One who captured your heart will never leave you or forsake you. Through the gospel of Christ, God has promised His love for you, and He will keep that promise. He will never let you go. How do I know He has embraced me? I have embraced Him. (I Corinthians 1:8-9).

Westminster Shorter Catechism
Question 1: What is the chief end of man?
Answer: Man's chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy Him forever!