Our Philosophy

Autonomy of Each Local Church

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 our “daughter churches” that we sponsor, we encourage each congregation to determine its own strategy, structure, and style.

Priesthood of Every Believer

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.

One Sole Authority – The Bible

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.

Spirit-led Living

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)

Tithing

At Emmanuel we practice tithing for the support of Christ’s body, the church, as God commands. We recognize that giving 10% of our income is the Biblical standard of giving.

One true Godhead

We believe Jesus Christ was both human and divine, creator and creature; God manifested in the flesh, the only person of the Godhead, the Eternal Father made visible, apart from whom there is no God. Therefore, whatever we do in word or deed, we do it in the Name of Jesus Christ.

Loving God and One Another

We believe our love for one another and for God shows our commitment as Disciples of Christ. Therefore, we practice ministering to one another and others in the spirit of love.

Immersion

We practice baptism by immersion under water — the way Jesus was baptized, and the way the Bible commands.

Confessing Christ as lord to Others

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 to church.