< 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

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< BACK TO OUTLINE Previous Next V. God’s Design — Family, Life, and Society 19. Marriage, Family, and Sexuality We believe every person is created in God’s image with dignity and worth. God designed humanity as male and female and reserved sexual intimacy for the covenant marriage between one man and one woman. Marriage reflects the relationship between Christ and His Church and provides the foundation for family and community life. Because of sin, all people experience brokenness in their desires, yet through Jesus Christ we can be forgiven, healed, and empowered to live in holiness. Scripture References: Genesis 1:27; Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:4-6; Ephesians 5:31-32 Expanded Explanation: From the beginning, God created humanity in His image and designed marriage as a sacred covenant between one man and one woman (Genesis 2:24). This union is not merely a social contract but a divine reflection of Christ’s relationship with His Church (Ephesians 5:25–32). Within marriage, God provides companionship, sexual intimacy, and the context for raising children in faith. Sexuality, when lived within God’s design, is a gift that expresses covenant love, unity, and mutual self-giving. Outside that design, it leads to distortion and pain. Scripture calls all believers—married or single—to live in purity and self-control, honoring God with their bodies (1 Thessalonians 4:3–5). Though humanity’s desires have been corrupted by sin, the gospel offers both forgiveness and transformation. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we are not bound by our past or by cultural redefinitions of gender and sexuality. In Christ, brokenness is met with grace, and holiness becomes not a burden but a joy — the freedom to live as God originally intended. 20. The Sanctity of Life We believe all human life is sacred and created in the image of God, from conception to natural death. God alone is the giver and sustainer of life; therefore, every person—born or unborn, healthy or disabled, young or old—has inherent value. We affirm God’s call to protect, cherish, and defend life, extending compassion and hope to those who have experienced loss, abortion, or suffering through the grace of Jesus Christ. Scripture References: Psalm 139:13-16; Jeremiah 1:5; John 10:10; Deuteronomy 30:19-20 Expanded Explanation: Human life is sacred because it bears the image of its Creator. From the moment of conception, each person is known and loved by God (Psalm 139:13–16; Jeremiah 1:5). Life is not an accident of biology but a divine gift entrusted to us. Because of this truth, followers of Christ are called to defend and value life at every stage — from the unborn child to the elderly, from the healthy to the vulnerable. Jesus came that we might have life “more abundantly” (John 10:10), showing us the heart of the Father who delights in His creation. Upholding the sanctity of life also means extending grace to those who carry guilt or pain from past decisions. The cross of Christ offers complete forgiveness and renewal for every heart that turns to Him. Our response to this truth is both conviction and compassion — conviction that life is sacred and cannot be devalued, and compassion that welcomes and restores those who have been wounded. In doing so, the Church becomes a refuge of mercy and a witness to the Creator who gives life and redeems it. 21. Human Identity and Dignity We believe every human being is created by God with unique purpose and value. Our true identity is not found in personal achievement, social status, or self-definition, but in being His creation and, through faith in Christ, His redeemed children. We reject all attempts to devalue, exploit, or redefine what it means to be human. In a culture of confusion, we stand for the dignity of every person and the hope of restored identity through the gospel of Jesus Christ. Scripture References: Genesis 1:27; Psalm 8:3-5; Galatians 3:26-28; 2 Corinthians 5:17 Expanded Explanation: In a world that constantly redefines identity, Scripture anchors us in an unchanging truth: we are created by God, in His image, and for His glory. Our worth is not determined by what we do or how we feel, but by who we belong to. The image of God (Imago Dei) gives every person—regardless of background, ability, or experience—equal dignity and worth (Psalm 8:3–5). Sin distorts that image, leading people to seek identity apart from God in performance, possessions, gender, or power. But through Christ, the image is restored. Those who place their faith in Jesus become new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17) and are adopted as sons and daughters of God (Galatians 3:26–28). The Church must speak truth with grace in a culture that is confused about what it means to be human. We affirm that God made humanity male and female, both reflecting His nature, and that every person is invited into a redeemed identity in Christ. This conviction calls us not to condemnation but to compassion — pointing people toward the One who gives true worth, lasting purpose, and eternal hope. Previous Next

< Back Rock RMS Mass Text Tutorial Instructor: Amy Varner You can send mass text messages to any group or dataview created in Rock RMS. Previous Next

< Back Work Order Tutorial Instructor: Amy Varner 1. Work Order Entry On the navigation bar to the far left, click the first icon underneath the church logo. Click on “Work Order Entry” Click “General Project” (choose the correct campus) Enter the project name with the scheme: Building / Room / Issue (Ex: Branch / N. Auditorium / Broken Door) Include as many details as possible. You can also attach and upload pictures here. Click Save No other information required 2. Work Order Queue Access On the navigation bar to the far left, click the first icon underneath the church logo. Click on “Work Order Queue” Click on “Basic Projects” Work Orders will be viewable in the queue in date order. You can click on each work order to view details about the status, updates, individuals assigned, etc. Previous Next

< Back Professional Printing Printing, Document Distribution, Commercial Printing PO Box 321 Griffin, GA 30223 (770) 229-1836 Previous Next

< Back Boulder Designs 125 Kuhn Moore Rd, Locust Grove, GA 30248, USA (404) 604-6452 micahjkuhn@gmail.com Website About Previous Next

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< 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. Tithes and Offerings We affirm that the tithe—the first tenth of our income—is faithfully brought to the local church, without designation, as an act of worship, obedience, and trust in God. Offerings are given above the tithe as expressions of generosity to support specific needs, initiatives, and the advancement of God’s mission. Scripture References: Malachi 3:10; Proverbs 3:9-10; Matthew 6:21; Acts 11:29; 2 Corinthians 9:7** Expanded Explanation: While all that we have belongs to God and is entrusted to us as stewards, Scripture gives clear guidance for how believers practice faithful giving. The tithe—the first tenth—is consistently presented as belonging to the Lord and is to be brought into the storehouse, understood as the local church, where it supports the ongoing ministry and mission of God’s people (Malachi 3:10). Giving the tithe is an act of obedience and trust, placing God first and acknowledging Him as our provider (Proverbs 3:9–10). We believe the tithe is given without designation, entrusted to the church to steward wisely according to God’s leading and the collective discernment of the church’s financial leadership. This reflects both biblical pattern and practical unity, allowing the church to function effectively in fulfilling its mission. Offerings, given above the tithe, are expressions of generosity that may be directed toward specific needs or initiatives, as seen throughout Scripture—whether supporting God’s work, responding to urgent needs, or advancing the mission of the gospel (Exodus 35:21–29; Ezra 1:4; Nehemiah 2:8; Acts 11:29; 2 Corinthians 8–9; Philippians 4:15–18). At the same time, we recognize that all financial gifts are most effective when undesignated and entrusted to the Lord and to the spiritual leadership of the church for faithful stewardship and the greatest kingdom impact. Giving is not merely a financial practice but a spiritual act of worship that reflects the heart. Scripture calls believers to give willingly, cheerfully, and sacrificially, not under compulsion, but as an overflow of gratitude for God’s grace (2 Corinthians 9:7). Through faithful tithing and generous offerings, believers participate in God’s work, support the local church, and invest in eternal impact. 30. 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. 31. 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). 32. 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

< Back Hearn Landscape (404) 550-8360 hearnlandscape@outlook.com Website About Hearn Landscape Management, Inc. was established in 2008 by Sam and Daniel Hearn. Their vision was to establish a business which delivered a consistently positive experience for customers and a beautiful end result for their customers' homes. In the beginning, they began by cutting grass in college and built upon this foundation to offer the extensive landscaping services they offer today. Their company has grown and flourished because of how they exceed customer expectations. Through reviews, social media, and neighbor to neighbor recommendations growing their business, the Hearn brothers have been able to enhance countless homes with a beautiful and customized exterior design. At the core, the Hearn brothers lead their team to prioritize hard work, communicate consistently, and surpass their competitors throughout the landscaping project. Regardless of their growth in the future, the Hearn Brothers are remaining true to their dedicated family-owned roots, which have guided their business from the beginning. Previous Next

< Back Collins Trucking Company, Inc Trucking and Transportation 527 Alabama Blvd, Jackson, Georgia 30233, USA (770) 775-3333 Previous Next

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