OUR LIFESTYLE STATEMENT

Based on what the Bible teaches, we feel very strongly about the following seven practices:

1. Bible as our sole authority

“The whole Bible was given to us by inspiration from God and is useful to teach us what is

true and make us realize what is wrong in our lives; it straightens us out and helps us to do

what is right.” (2 Timothy 3:15 NLT)

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.

2. Autonomy of each local church

“He [Christ] is the Head of His Body, the church. He is the source of the Body’s life…”

(Colossians 1:18 GN)

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

denomination’s control.

3. Priesthood of every believer

“Chris t loves us, and by His death He has freed us from our sins and made us a kingdom of

priests to serve God…” (Revelation 1:6GN)

“You are…the King’s priests…God’s own people, chosen to proclaim the wonderful acts of

God.” (1 Peter 2:9 GN)

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 a direct access to

God through prayer and Bible reading (Romans 5:1-2).

4. Tithing

“A tithe of all you produce is the Lord’s, and it is holy.” (Leviticus 27:30 NLT)

At Indian Springs Baptist, we practice tithing for the support of Christ’s Body, the Church,

as God commands. We recognize that giving 10% of our income us the Biblical starting

point of our giving.

5. Immersion

“For when you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, and in baptism you were also

raised with Christ…” (Colossians 2:12 (GN)

We practice baptism by immersion under water – the way Jesus was baptized and the way

the Bible commands.

6. Spirit-led living

(Jesus said) “I am the Vine, and you are the branches. If you abide in Me and I in you, you

will bear much fruit; but apart from Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5 NAS)

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. See

Philippians 2:13, Ephesians 5:18 and Colossians 3:16.

7. Telling others about Christ

“Always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the

hope that you have.” (1 Peter 3:15 NIV)

It is the responsibility of every Christian to share the Good News with those God brings into

contact with us. We practice personal sharing about Christ and inviting friends to join us in

worshipping God at church.