The Bible is our Sole Authority
“The whole Bible was given to us by inspiration from God and is useful to teach us what is true and make us realize what is wrong in our lives;
it straightens us out and helps us to do what is right.” 2 Tim. 3:15
Since God’s Word is the only completely reliable and truthful authority, we accept the Bible as our manual for living. Our first question when faced with a decision is “What does the Bible say?” We practice daily Bible reading, Bible study, and Bible memorization. The Bible is the
basis for all we believe.
Each Local Church should be Self-Governing
“Christ is the head of His Body, the church. He is the source of the Body’s life...”
Col. 1:18 (GN)
Christ is the recognized head of our church, not any person, group, or religious organization. While recognizing the value of associating and cooperating with other groups of Christians, we believe every local church should be self-governing and independent from any denominational control. In relating to any “daughter churches” that we may sponsor, we will encourage each congregation to determine it’s own strategy, structure, and style.
Every Believer should be a Minister
“Christ loves us, and by His death He has freed us from our sins and made us a kingdom of priests to serve God...” Rev. 1:6 (GN) “You are...the King’s priests...God’s own people, chosen to proclaim the wonderful acts of God.” 1 Pet. 2:9 (GN)
The Bible teaches that every Christian is called to “full time” Christian service, regardless of his or her vocation. We practice the truth that every believer is a minister by encouraging every member to find a place of service and ministry. Every believer has direct access to God through prayer Bible reading.
Every Believer should be a Cheerful Giver
“Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” II Corinthians 9:7 NIV
Before the New Testament Management System, which we know as Grace, God had the strict Law of tithing (Numbers 18:21-28); even before Law, it was an established custom for man to offer the tithe Genesis 14:20; 28:22). Under the New Management System of Grace, God expects Christians to give graciously, from the heart (I Corinthians 16:1, 2); certainly, the tithe should be a guide. The Greek word for “cheerful” is “hilaros,” from which we get “hilarious.” In other words, God has a special love for HILARIOUS GIVERS, people who delight in giving to the Lord’s Work, to the local church, for the cause of missions, etc. This indeed is “grace giving” (2 Cor. 8:1-6), which the Apostle Paul commended to be practiced by the Corinthian Christians. We believe this is God’s plan for today.
Every Believer should be Baptized by Immersion
“For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ...” Col. 2:12 (GN)
We practice baptism by immersion under water — the way Jesus was baptized, and the way the Bible commands.
Every Believer should practice Spirit-Led Living
(Jesus said), “I am the Vine, you are the branches. If you abide in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; but apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5
We believe the only way possible 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 enable us to do what is right. (Phil. 2:13, Eph. 5:18)
Every Believer should Tell Others about Christ
“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” 1 Peter 3:15
It is the responsibility of every Christian to share the Good News with those with whom God brings us into contact. We practice personal sharing about Christ and inviting friends
What We Practice:
2633 Emmaus Ave. Zion, IL 60099
(847) 872-3542
Zion Bible Church
