The Apostles remembered what many modern Christians tend to forget - that what makes the Gospel offensive isn't who it keeps out but who it lets in. - Rachel Held Evans
OUR VALUES
Regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, all Christians belong, heart and mind, body and soul, to our faithful savior, Jesus Christ, who dearly treasures and extravagantly loves each one of us.
God expects us to live incarnationally, using our gifts in mutual service to each other, the church, and the world.
We are called to work toward a kingdom of mercy, justice, peace, joy and hope. (see Micah 6:8; Romans 14:17; Colossians 1:22-23; Ephesians 4:4) Hearts that are welcoming, open and kind make the love of God luminous in the world.
Pronouncements of judgment are dangerous acts. Any emphasis on fallen behavior should focus on ourselves primarily, and only with caution on fellow humans. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Rom. 3:23). “Let the one who is without sin cast the first stone” (John 8:7)
Love, commitment, and sexual expression are naturally linked. All One Body affirms and celebrates with all Christians who unite in committed, monogamous relationships patterned after Christ’s bond with his church.
Scripture is the authoritative standard for the life of the church; its norms must give meaning and direction to all of its ministries. By the message of Scripture, we must test even our most cherished traditions and practices, working together for the ongoing renewal of God’s people so that the redeeming power of God’s Word can address every human situation. (See Report 44: The Nature and Extent of Biblical Authority. Agenda for Synod, 1972)
Regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, all Christians belong, heart and mind, body and soul, to our faithful savior, Jesus Christ, who dearly treasures and extravagantly loves each one of us.
God expects us to live incarnationally, using our gifts in mutual service to each other, the church, and the world.
We are called to work toward a kingdom of mercy, justice, peace, joy and hope. (see Micah 6:8; Romans 14:17; Colossians 1:22-23; Ephesians 4:4) Hearts that are welcoming, open and kind make the love of God luminous in the world.
Pronouncements of judgment are dangerous acts. Any emphasis on fallen behavior should focus on ourselves primarily, and only with caution on fellow humans. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Rom. 3:23). “Let the one who is without sin cast the first stone” (John 8:7)
Love, commitment, and sexual expression are naturally linked. All One Body affirms and celebrates with all Christians who unite in committed, monogamous relationships patterned after Christ’s bond with his church.
Scripture is the authoritative standard for the life of the church; its norms must give meaning and direction to all of its ministries. By the message of Scripture, we must test even our most cherished traditions and practices, working together for the ongoing renewal of God’s people so that the redeeming power of God’s Word can address every human situation. (See Report 44: The Nature and Extent of Biblical Authority. Agenda for Synod, 1972)
