Core Beliefs
The following are the core beliefs of Saraland First based on the foundational truths taught in the bible. All of our teaching and ministry is rooted in and flows out of these biblical doctrines.
The Bible
The Bible is the verbally inspired Word of God. (2 Timothy 3:15-17, 2 Peter 1:21)
God
There is one true God, eternally self-existent, properly understood as one Being of three persons. (John 14:16-17; Matthew 28:19)
Jesus
Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God. (Matthew 1:23; Philippians 2:9-11)
The Fall
Humankind voluntarily fell out of relationship with God through sin. (Genesis 1:26-27; Romans 5:12-19)
Salvation
Only the shed blood of Jesus can redeem individuals from sin and death. (Luke 24:47; Romans 8:16)
The Church
The ordinances of the church are water baptism and holy communion. (Romans 6:4; 1 Corinthians 11:26)
The Holy Spirit
All believers are entitled to the baptism in the Holy Spirit, an experience distinct from and subsequent to the new birth and promised by the Father. (Acts 1:4,8; Luke 24:49)
Evidence
Speaking in tongues is the initial physical evidence of the Holy Spirit baptism. (Acts 2:4; 1 Corinthians 12:4-10, 28)
Sanctification
Sanctification is a life of separation from sin, realized by identifying with Christ’s death and resurrection. (1 Peter 1:15-16; Romans 12:1-2)
Mission
The Church is Christ’s body, the habitation of God, and exists for a fourfold purpose. (Ephesians 1:22-23; 2:22; Hebrews 12:23)
Ministry
The church is to be led by a divinely called and scripturally ordained ministry. (Ephesians 4:11, 16; Mark 16:15-20)
Healing
Divine healing is an integral part of the gospel. (Isaiah 53:4-5; James 5:14-16)
Hope
The resurrection of the righteous dead and the rapture of living believers is the Blessed Hope of the Church. (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; 1 Corinthians 15:51-52)
Millenial Reign
The second coming of Christ includes the visible return of Christ to reign for one thousand years. (Revelation 19:11-14; Isaiah 11:6-9)
Judgement
A final judgment awaits the wicked, both the dead and the living. (Matthew 25:46; Mark 9:43-48)
New Heaven and Earth
A new heaven and a new earth are promised in the Bible for the redeemed in Christ. (2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21,22)