Beliefs
Godhead
We believe in one God eternally self-existing in three equal persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Each has the same nature and attributes, but is distinct in office and activity (Matthew 28:19-20).
Jesus
We believe that Jesus Christ is true God and true man, having been conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. Though innocent, he died on the cross taking the punishment for our sins, according to the Scriptures. He physically resurrected from the dead, ascended into heaven, where, at the right hand of the Father, He now intercedes with the Father on our behalf until he returns. (John 1:1, 14, 18; Romans 3:24-26; 4:25).
Holy Spirit
We believe that the ministry of the Holy Spirit is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ and during this age to convict men, regenerate the believing sinner, indwell, guide, instruct, and empower the believer for godly living and service. The Holy Spirit gives spiritual gifts for the building and maturing of the body of Christ (John 16; Rom 8:9-11).
Disciple
We define a disciple as anyone who is actively, passionately, and devotedly following Jesus Christ. A disciple is one who has accepted the salvation provided by Jesus’ Christ’s death and resurrection, yet continues to “work out their salvation” each day. A disciple leads a life of worship, fellowship, surrender, and love.
Gospel
We believe the Gospel is the “news of victory” or “good news” that Jesus Christ died, was buried, and physically resurrected. We believe (Rom 1:7, 15; 2 Peter 1:3-10) that the gospel is to make new disciples from spiritual captives (Luke 3:18-19; Acts 14; Eph 4:8) and continue to mature present disciples towards maturity in Christ (Eph 4:13-16; 2 Peter 1:3-11).
Salvation
We believe that the shed blood of Jesus Christ and His resurrection provide the only means of salvation for all who believe, and only such as receive Jesus Christ are born of the Holy Spirit and thus become children of God. While at conversion we believe the believer is fully justified before the Father, they will continue in “working out their salvation” while here on earth for the glory of the Christ. Only when we meet Christ face-to-face are we perfected forever to live with him (Romans 3:23-24).
Sacraments
We believe that water baptism and the Lord’s Supper are sacraments to be observed by the church during the present age. They are, however, not to be regarded as justifying works for salvation, but as reminders of grace for the Christian’s growth in Christ.
Baptism
Regarding modes of baptism, we will practice immersion of believers as we understand Jesus’ baptism by John (Matthew 3:13-17), Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:26-40), and Paul’s description of baptism (Romans 6:1-7). While we do not practice infant baptism, we are more than willing to participate in your child’s dedication. For inquiries about child dedication, email info@outpostlife.com.
The Table
We believe the table is an integral part of participatory worship in the fellowship of the saints. In participating at the Lord ’s Table believers proclaim the death of Christ until he comes again (1 Corinthians 11:26). We understand 1 Corinthians 11:17-34 and the issue of an “unworthy manner” to mean those who are perpetuating a life of rebellion against the Trinity and the truth. Each believer is responsible to examine his/her own heart and if the table would be appropriate for their participation. When appropriate, the leadership of the Outpost may ask a believer to abstain from the Lord ’s Table due to a wayward heart and an unwillingness to repent. [Gluten free bread is available upon request. Please ask those serving communion and they will provide bread that is gluten free for communion.]
The Church
We believe that the true Church consists of individuals who have surrendered to the person and truth of Christ in personal relationship living out life in a relational community. At the Outpost unity and diversity are celebrated as reflections of the Trinity while seeking to appreciate one another’s uniqueness. The Lord is creating a safe community among us based on deep level trust where one can invite others to walk with them in authenticity. Specifically it is lived out as selfless sacrifice on behalf of another, persistence in relationship, and watching what we say to and about one another (Eph 4:15; Eph 4:29). While we desire the Outpost environment to feel comfortable socially, part of the being/growing as a disciple involves participation. From the gathering, to life groups, to relationships, intentional participation in the church is essential to the life of the believer.
The Scriptures
We believe the Scriptures – both Old and New Testaments – to be the inspired Word of God, without error in the original writings, the complete revelation of His will for the salvation of men, and the Divine and final authority for all Christian faith and life (2 Tim 3:16).
