our lifestyle statement

What We Practice

Beliefs are not worth much unless they are translated into actions. Based on what the Bible teaches, we feel very strongly about the following seven practices:

BIBLE AS OUR SOLE AUTHORITY

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” II Timothy 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.

BIBLE BAPTISM BY IMMERSION IN JESUS NAME AND INFILLING OF THE HOLY GHOST EVIDENCED BY SPEAKING IN OTHER TONGUES AS THE SPIRIT GIVES UTTERANCE OUR SOLE AUTHORITY

“For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also raised with Christ...” Colossians 2:12

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

Acts 10:44 While Peter was saying these words, the Holy Spirit came on all those who were hearing the word.

Acts 10:45 And the Jews of the faith, who had come with Peter, were full of wonder, because the Holy Spirit was given to the Gentiles,

Acts 10:46 And they were talking in tongues, and giving glory to God. Then Peter said,

Act 10:47 Will any man say that these may not have baptism who have been given the Holy Spirit as we have?

PRIESTHOOD OF EVERY BELIEVER

“To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and has made us kings and priests...” Revelation 1:5-6

“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood...” 1 Peter 2:9

The Bible teaches that every Christian is called to “full-time” Christian service, regardless of his or her vocation. Every believer has direct access to God through prayer and Bible reading. We practice the truth that every believer is a minister by encouraging every member to find a place of service and ministry. We serve and love Him, and His Kingdom, with the return of Jesus in our hearts.

TITHES AND OFFERINGS

“And all the tithe of the land…it is holy unto the Lord.” Leviticus 27:30

At The PenFSJ we believe in supporting the Work of God with our finances. We are blessed to practice a financial giving plan that consists of tithes and offerings, in accordance to the Scriptures. We also believe in giving by faith to special projects that will help the Kingdom of God to advance further and reach our world.

SPIRIT-LED LIVING

“For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.” Romans 8:13-14

We believe the only way possible to live the Christian life is by God’s power within us. Therefore, we seek to practice a daily dependence on God’s Spirit to enable us to do what is right. (Philippians 2:13, Ephesians 5:18)

PERSONAL HOLINESS

“Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.” Hebrews 12:14

God calls His people to be holy - or set apart - from the world. We are called to keep ourselves unspotted from the world and not to be conformed to the world’s way of thinking. (II Corinthians 6:17, James 1:27, Romans 12:2)

We practice modesty in our appearance and moral purity because our bodies are the temple of God. (I Corinthians 6:19-20, Revelation 3:18, I Corinthians 5:1-13, 6:15-18)

TELLING OTHERS ABOUT CHRIST

“Always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you.” 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 to church.