Pursuing Christ

We believe that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). The only way to know God intimately and have eternal life is to trust his Son, Jesus Christ (John 17:3).  The atoning work of Christ on the cross for our salvation is the center of our message and is what unites us as believers. One aspect of our commitment to proclaiming the truth of Christ is expository Bible teaching (2 Tim. 3:16-17).  We preach through large portions of Scripture—often books at a time—in a verse by verse fashion. This method is the best way to study the Bible in sufficient detail and gives a long- term balance of Old and New Testament passages.  From time to time we will do different  topical sermons on finances, parenting, or have special holiday messages.

Another aspect of following Christ is passionate prayer and worship (John 4:23-24). When we gather on Sunday mornings we honor Christ together by singing His praises.  But worship is more than just a Sunday-only experience. Jesus is the Lord of the universe and the Head of the Church; we are called to exalt Him in everything we do. We are called to worship Christ in how we live and work, in how we spend our money and relate to our families.

Pursuing Community

We believe that God calls us to live in close community with one another. Even though we live in a society with every possible means of communication, relationships are often superficial.  Many people stumble in their faith journey because they are not closely connected to and invested in the lives of other Christians. We believe the Bible instructs us to live authentic lives (not hiding our real selves) and purposeful lives (serving one another, not just our own needs).

The primary way in which we accomplish God’s call to community is through Life Groups. When we gather together for prayer, study, and fellowship, God by His Spirit transforms our hearts and enables us to exhort and encourage each other.   Authentic service, mercy, forgiveness, and reconciliation are signs of genuine love for one another (John 13:34-35).

Pursuing the Great Commission

We believe that God has gifted our local fellowship to make a difference both in our local community of Ocala and beyond our country’s shores. The purpose of the Church is to make disciples of all nations (Matt. 28:18-20).

It is easy for us to think that “the world” is some far-off concept, but God wants us to change the world starting where we live right now (Matthew 25:31-46).  We desire to reach people with the transforming message of Jesus Christ, who came full of grace & truth.  Whether in our local context or overseas missions, we pray that God would continue to build his kingdom (Acts 1:8).

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perishbut have eternal life.”

John 3:16 NIV