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< BACK TO OUTLINE Previous Next II. Humanity — Our Condition and Redemption 6. Humanity and Sin We believe every person is created in the image of God with dignity and worth, yet all have sinned and fallen short of His glory. Sin is rebellion against God that separates us from Him and corrupts every part of human life. We are powerless to save ourselves and in need of God’s mercy and grace. Scripture References: Genesis 1:26-27; Romans 3:23; Isaiah 53:6; Romans 6:23 Expanded Explanation: Humanity was created to reflect God’s image — to know Him, love Him, and steward His creation. This divine image (Genesis 1:26–27) gives every person immeasurable worth, yet it also carries a calling: to live in relationship with our Creator. Sin shattered that relationship. The first humans chose independence from God (Genesis 3), and ever since, sin has infected every heart and system of the world. Sin is not merely doing bad things; it is a condition of the heart that resists God’s authority and seeks self-rule (Jeremiah 17:9). Because of sin, we are spiritually dead and unable to reach God by our own effort (Ephesians 2:1–3). But God’s mercy meets us in that brokenness. Recognizing our sin is not meant to produce shame but to drive us toward grace — the only power that can cleanse and restore the image of God within us. 7. Repentance and Forgiveness We believe repentance is both the doorway into salvation and the ongoing posture of a believer’s heart. True repentance is turning from sin and turning to God in faith, trusting His mercy and grace. Forgiveness is God’s gracious response through the blood of Jesus Christ, cleansing us from guilt and restoring fellowship with Him and others. Scripture References: Acts 3:19; 1 John 1:9; Proverbs 28:13; Psalm 32:1-2 Expanded Explanation: Repentance is more than regret — it’s a change of direction and desire. The Greek word metanoia literally means “to change one’s mind.” It’s the moment when a person stops running from God and starts running toward Him. Repentance is not a single act but a lifelong rhythm for every believer (Luke 9:23). As the Holy Spirit convicts, we respond by confessing sin, renouncing it, and aligning our hearts again with God’s truth. Forgiveness flows from the cross, not from our performance. Because Jesus bore our sins in His body (1 Peter 2:24), believers stand completely cleansed and restored before God. This same forgiveness also compels us to forgive others (Matthew 6:14–15). Repentance keeps our hearts soft; forgiveness keeps our relationships whole. Together, they mark a life continually shaped by grace. 8. Salvation in Christ We believe salvation is God’s gracious gift, offered to all through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is received by grace through faith — not by good works or religion. All who repent and believe in Christ are forgiven, made new, and given eternal life. Salvation marks both a new birth and a lifelong journey of following Jesus in faith and obedience. Scripture References: John 3:16; Romans 10:9-10; Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:4-7 Expanded Explanation: Salvation is the gracious act of God by which He rescues humanity from sin and its consequences, restores relationship with Himself, and grants eternal life through Jesus Christ. It is wholly accomplished by the finished work of Christ on the cross and received by faith, not earned by human merit. By His death and resurrection, Jesus broke the power of sin and conquered death, opening the way for all who believe to be forgiven and made new (Romans 3:23–24; Titus 3:4–7). Those who repent and place their trust in Christ are justified by faith, adopted into God’s family, and indwelt by the Holy Spirit. Salvation brings both assurance and responsibility—believers are called to live out their faith in obedience and holiness. While salvation is God’s gracious gift received by faith, Scripture warns that a person can turn away from Christ through persistent unbelief and rebellion (Hebrews 6:4–6; 10:26–29). Therefore, believers are called to continue in faith and obedience, remaining steadfast to the end (Colossians 1:23). Grace does not give license to sin but empowers believers to live transformed lives that reflect the righteousness and love of Christ (Romans 6:1–4; Titus 2:11–12). 9. The Blood of Christ and Atonement We believe the shed blood of Jesus Christ is the full payment for sin and the foundation of our salvation. On the cross, the sinless Son of God bore the judgment we deserved, satisfying divine justice and reconciling us to the Father. His sacrifice was once for all, complete and sufficient. His blood continues to cleanse and sanctify us as we walk with Him. Scripture References: Romans 5:8-9; Hebrews 9:12-14; 1 Peter 1:18-19; 1 John 1:7 Expanded Explanation: The shedding of Jesus’ blood is not merely symbolic — it is the very means by which we are reconciled to God. From the sacrifices of the Old Testament to the cross of Calvary, Scripture declares that “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” (Hebrews 9:22). In His perfect obedience, Jesus became the spotless Lamb of God (John 1:29), fulfilling every shadow and promise of the Law. His atonement satisfied both the justice and mercy of God. Justice demanded sin be punished; mercy desired sinners be forgiven. The cross accomplished both. Now, through faith in Christ, believers are justified — declared righteous before God (Romans 5:9). Yet the blood of Christ also continues its work, sanctifying us daily as we walk in fellowship with Him. Every communion table reminds us: our hope rests not in our effort, but in His finished sacrifice. 10. Grace and Faith We believe we are saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone. Grace is God’s unearned favor that rescues and restores us; faith is our wholehearted trust in Jesus and His finished work. Good works do not earn salvation but naturally flow from a heart transformed by grace. We live each day dependent on God’s grace, walking by faith, and growing through the Spirit’s power. Scripture References: Ephesians 2:8-10; Romans 5:1-2; Galatians 2:20; Titus 2:11-12 Expanded Explanation: Grace is the heartbeat of the gospel. It means God initiates what we could never accomplish on our own. Salvation begins with grace, continues by grace, and will be completed by grace (Philippians 1:6). Faith, then, is our response — not mere belief in facts, but trust in a Person. It is leaning the full weight of our life upon Christ and His finished work (Romans 4:3–5). Grace and faith always produce transformation. When God’s unmerited favor grips the heart, it compels obedience and good works — not as a means to earn acceptance, but as a joyful expression of it (James 2:17–18). Grace removes boasting; faith removes fear. Together they form the foundation for a life that rests fully in Christ, confident that “His grace is sufficient” (2 Corinthians 12:9). 11. Sanctification and Holiness We believe sanctification is the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit that sets believers apart from sin and shapes them into the image of Christ. It begins at salvation and continues throughout life as we yield daily to the Spirit, obey God’s Word, and grow in maturity. Holiness is not achieved by human effort but produced by the Spirit in those who walk in obedience and love. Scripture References: Romans 12:1-2; 2 Corinthians 3:18; 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4; Philippians 1:6 Expanded Explanation: Sanctification is both an event and a journey. At the moment of salvation, believers are set apart as God’s own (1 Corinthians 6:11). From that point forward, the Holy Spirit works continually to conform us to the likeness of Christ (Romans 8:29). This process involves both divine power and human cooperation — God works in us, and we respond in faith and obedience (Philippians 2:12–13). Holiness is not about perfectionism but about transformation. It’s learning to desire what God desires and to reflect His character in everyday life. Spiritual growth takes time, often through testing and surrender. The more we abide in Christ (John 15:4–5), the more His life is formed in us. True holiness is never cold or prideful — it is humble, loving, and Spirit-filled, showing the world what God’s grace can do in a yielded life. Previous Next

< BACK TO OUTLINE Previous Next VII. The World — Our Stewardship and Witness 26. Creation, Stewardship, and the Environment We believe God created the heavens and the earth, and all creation reflects His glory. Humanity was given the responsibility to care for and cultivate the earth as wise stewards, not owners. We affirm our calling to use and protect God’s creation responsibly, recognizing that the world is entrusted to us for provision and for future generations. Though creation is broken because of sin, we look forward to the day when God will restore all things through Jesus Christ. Scripture References: Genesis 1:1, 28; Psalm 24:1; Romans 8:19-21; Revelation 21:5** Expanded Explanation: Creation itself is the first revelation of God’s glory. The heavens declare His majesty, and the earth displays His craftsmanship (Psalm 19:1). Humanity was placed in the garden not as owners but as caretakers, commissioned to “work it and watch over it” (Genesis 2:15). Stewardship reflects worship — caring for what God has made honors the One who made it. Sin brought disorder to creation, resulting in decay, disaster, and misuse of the world’s resources (Romans 8:20–22). Yet the command to steward the earth remains. Believers should approach creation with gratitude, humility, and responsibility — conserving what sustains life, cultivating what brings flourishing, and refusing to exploit what God has called good. Environmental care is not a political issue first; it is a spiritual one. The earth belongs to the Lord (Psalm 24:1), and one day Christ will restore it to perfection. Until then, we manage His creation faithfully as an act of worship and witness to His coming kingdom. 27. Justice, Poverty, and the Value of Work We believe God cares deeply for the poor, the oppressed, and the marginalized, and He calls His people to do the same. Work is a gift from God that provides purpose, provision, and a way to serve others. We affirm both our responsibility to care for those in need and the dignity of honest work, knowing that generosity and integrity reflect the heart of God. In all things, we are called to live with compassion, diligence, and gratitude, trusting God as our provider. Scripture References: Proverbs 14:31; Micah 6:8; Colossians 3:23-24; James 2:14-17** Expanded Explanation: God’s concern for justice includes practical compassion for the poor and the marginalized. Throughout Scripture, He defends the cause of the orphan, the widow, and the foreigner (Deuteronomy 10:18). To ignore those in need is to ignore the heart of God (Proverbs 14:31). Followers of Christ are called to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him (Micah 6:8). At the same time, work itself is part of God’s design. It was given before the fall as a means of purpose and stewardship (Genesis 2:15). Through work, we contribute to the good of others and reflect God’s creativity. The dignity of work reminds us that every honest vocation can honor God when done with excellence and integrity (Colossians 3:23–24). Justice and compassion are not opposites—they are partners. The Church’s mission is to meet both spiritual and physical needs, empowering people toward wholeness rather than dependency. Generosity, when guided by wisdom, displays the gospel and declares that God alone is our provider and sustainer. 28. Wealth, Possessions, and Generosity We believe everything we have comes from God and is entrusted to us to use for His glory. Earthly wealth and possessions are temporary, but they become eternal investments when used to bless others and advance God’s kingdom. We affirm the call to live with contentment and gratitude, practicing wise stewardship and joyful generosity. It is more blessed to give than to receive, and we gladly offer our time, talents, and treasures to the Lord. Scripture References: Malachi 3:10; Matthew 6:19-21; 2 Corinthians 9:6-8; Acts 20:35** Expanded Explanation: Stewardship begins with recognizing that everything we own ultimately belongs to God (Psalm 24:1). Wealth is not evil, but it is a trust that tests the heart. Jesus warned that we cannot serve both God and money (Matthew 6:24). Possessions become dangerous when they possess us, yet powerful when used for God’s purposes. Generosity is the antidote to greed. Giving aligns our hearts with heaven, storing treasure where moth and rust cannot destroy (Matthew 6:19–21). Whether through tithing, offerings, or acts of charity, believers express faith by releasing what they have to bless others. Paul reminds us that God loves a cheerful giver, not because He needs our resources, but because giving forms our character (2 Corinthians 9:7). Wise stewardship combines contentment and purpose. We work diligently, spend responsibly, and give generously, knowing that the measure of our life is not what we keep but what we invest in eternity. 29. Science, Technology, and Faith We believe all truth is God’s truth, and that science and technology, when rightly understood, can reveal the wisdom and majesty of our Creator. Faith and reason are not enemies but partners in the pursuit of truth. We affirm the call to use knowledge and innovation responsibly, guided by humility and integrity, for the good of humanity and the glory of God. Our ultimate hope is not in human achievement but in Christ, who is the source of all wisdom. Scripture References: Psalm 19:1-2; Proverbs 2:6; Colossians 1:16-17; James 1:5** Expanded Explanation: Science and faith both seek truth — one explores God’s creation, the other His revelation. When rightly understood, they complement rather than contradict each other. The physical laws that science discovers were spoken into existence by the same God who inspired Scripture (Colossians 1:16–17). Human innovation reflects the creative image of God, yet it must remain under His authority. Knowledge without humility can become dangerous. Technology, though powerful, must serve love, justice, and life rather than pride or profit. Believers are called to engage in science, medicine, and technology with integrity, seeking solutions that uphold human dignity and care for creation. Faith and reason are both gifts from God. True wisdom is not found in human progress alone but in reverence for the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). As we explore creation and harness knowledge, we remember that our hope is not in invention but in redemption—the restoration of all things through Christ. 30. Christ, Government, and Politics We believe Jesus Christ is King over all nations, and our ultimate allegiance belongs to Him alone. Earthly governments are established by God to promote justice and peace, and believers are called to honor and pray for those in authority. While we engage in civic life with integrity and truth, the Church is not bound to any political party or ideology. Our hope is not in politics but in Christ and His kingdom, which will endure forever. Scripture References: Romans 13:1-2; 1 Timothy 2:1-2; Philippians 3:20; Isaiah 9:6-7** Expanded Explanation: God ordains government as part of His common grace—to restrain evil, promote order, and preserve justice (Romans 13:1–4). Christians should respect authority and pray for leaders, recognizing that God can work through even imperfect systems (1 Timothy 2:1–2). Yet our ultimate allegiance is to a higher kingdom—one that is not of this world (John 18:36). Engaging in public life is part of our witness, but the Church must not confuse the kingdom of God with any earthly agenda. Political ideologies shift; Christ’s reign does not. We are called to speak truth to power, defend righteousness, and model civility and compassion in every discussion. When believers act with integrity, justice, and humility in civic matters, they shine as salt and light in a divided world. Our hope rests not in elected leaders but in the coming King whose government will know no end (Isaiah 9:7). 31. Religious Liberty and Freedom of Conviction We believe genuine faith cannot be forced, for God alone is Lord of the conscience. Religious liberty is a gift from God that allows His people to worship, serve, and live according to His Word. We affirm the freedom of all people to seek and follow God without coercion, and the Church’s right to believe and teach according to Scripture. While we honor governing authorities, we will obey God above all when human commands conflict with His Word. Scripture References: Acts 5:29; Romans 14:5; Galatians 5:1; 1 Peter 2:13-17** Expanded Explanation: Religious liberty flows from the nature of God Himself. He does not force worship but invites it through love and conviction. True faith cannot be imposed by law or government; it must arise from a willing heart transformed by grace. This freedom is both a human right and a spiritual responsibility. Christians honor governing authorities (Romans 13:1) yet must also discern when obedience to God requires civil disobedience (Acts 5:29). The Church must be free to teach, preach, and live according to Scripture—even when doing so conflicts with cultural norms or political pressure. Protecting religious liberty is not about privilege but about mission. When believers live faithfully in the public square, they defend the dignity of conscience for all people, ensuring that the gospel can continue to be proclaimed freely until Christ returns. Previous Next

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NEXT STEPS WHAT IS NEXT STEPS? Next Steps is precisely what they sound like, the next steps! Everyone is on a journey with God and we want to help make it easy for you to navigate. Our four steps are designed to help you understand where you are now and how to continue growing. Regardless if you have been a Christian for years, or if you're curious and have questions about God, there is a step for you. Everyone has a next step, learn more about yours below. The absolute best way for you to learn specifically about Next Steps is by taking our 4-week-long Next Steps class. There are class options on Sundays and Wednesdays! We want to make it simple for you, sign up below. The class for the Original and Branch Campus is located on the 3rd floor of the RS Kids Building. You can access any entrance and take the stairs or elevator up to Room 309. The class for the Macon Campus is located in Room 106. SIGN UP FOR THE CLASS A NEXT STEPS STORY? PREREGISTER YOUR CHILD CAMPUS MAP CAMPUS LOCATIONS & TIMES HOW WE CARE LEARN MORE

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Rock Springs Church, Make Heaven Bigger by Caring Better. If you want weekly updates about what is happening at Rock Springs, subscribe to our weekly emails below OR download our Church App! MAKE HEAVEN BIGGER BY CARING BETTER NEW HERE? HOW WE CARE SERVICE TIMES SUNDAY SERVICE: 11AM WEDNESDAY SMALL GROUPS: 7PM ADDRESS: 1415 BASS ROAD Macon, GA 31210 (478) 738-6752 A New Chapter: United in Faith Welcome to the Rock Springs family! We are overjoyed to share this exciting new chapter with you as we unite as one church. The property, formerly known as Turning Point Church and Mabel White will become the new Macon Campus, and we couldn’t be more thrilled about the incredible things God has in store. Let’s join in prayer and work hand in hand to fulfill our mission to "MAKE HEAVEN BIGGER BY CARING BETTER!" WHAT TO EXPECT BIBLICAL TEACHING PRAISE & WORSHIP PRAYER DISCIPLESHIP CONNECTION SERMON ARCHIVE MORE ABOUT GROUPS NEXT STEPS LIFE IS BETTER TOGETHER! Make Lifelong Friends. Have Fun. Grow Together. JOIN A SMALL GROUP TODAY Dr. Benny Tate Senior Pastor SEE FULL STAFF

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