Doctrine
Autonomy of the Local Church – The local church is an independent body accountable to the Lord Jesus Christ, the head of the church. All human authority for governing the local church resides within the local church itself. Colossians 1:18; 2 Corinthians 8:1-5, 19, 23
Priesthood of the Believer – Every believer today is a priest of God and may enter into His presence in prayer directly through our Great High Priest, Jesus Christ. No other mediator is needed between God and people. 1 Peter 2:5, 9; Revelation 5:9, 10
Two Ordinances – The local church should practice two ordinances: (1) baptism of believers by immersion in water, identifying the individual with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection, and (2) the Lord's Supper, or communion, commemorating His death for our sins. Matthew 28:19, 20; 1 Corinthians 11:23-32
Individual Soul Liberty – Every believer is responsible before God to determine by God’s Word the convictions by which to live. Romans 14:5, 12; 2 Corinthians 4:2; Titus 1:9
Saved, Baptized Church Membership – Local church membership is restricted to individuals who give a believable testimony of personal faith in Christ and have publicly identified themselves with Him in believer's baptism. Acts 2:41-47; 1 Corinthians 12:12; 2 Corinthians 6:14; Ephesians 4:3
Two Offices – The Bible mandates only two offices in the church-–pastor and deacon. The three terms-–"pastor," "elder," and "bishop," or "overseer"-–all refer to the same office. 1 Timothy 3:1-13; Acts 20:17-38; Philippians 1:1
Separation of Church and State – God established both the church and the civil government, and He gave each its own distinct sphere of operation. The government's purposes are outlined in Romans 13:1-7 and the church's purposes in Matthew 28:19 and 20. Matthew 22:15-22; Acts