Values
Guiding Values for Maranatha Church
The following guiding values for Maranatha Church are not listed in order of importance since we believe they are equally important:
Biblical truth: Our life of faith is founded upon the truth of scripture, which we believe is the primary way God has made himself known to humankind. It is the only reliable filter through which we can rightly interpret life.
Holistic ministry: The true Christian life involves compassionate concern and care for the whole person. God’s heart throughout scripture is revealed as merciful, just and compassionate. Therefore, we are obligated to help others who are in need—without prejudice.
Real and right relationships: The nature of our relationship with God is the model for our relationship with other believers—real and right. Scripture teaches that our relationships should be defined by love, grace, honesty, respect, peace, humility, devotion, kindness, and generosity. Such relationships define true unity.
Genuine discipleship: Jesus told his followers to make disciples. That is, to teach people what it means to be a true follower of Jesus. We believe this can only occur through open and honest relationships as we submit to one another out of reverence for Jesus Christ.
Authentic worship: Real worship begins with a heart that loves God and naturally overflows in expressions of gratitude and reverence to him. It can be exuberant, contemplative or anywhere in between.
Grace-filled witness: Scripture teaches that believers are God’s ambassadors to the world we live in—that God has called us to share the good news of Jesus Christ with others. We are to do this with love, grace and respect as the Holy Spirit leads and inspires us in faithful witness.
Life together: The authentic Christian life described in scripture is a shared life, which can only be experienced by gathering together regularly in worship, prayer, and true fellowship. Scripture does not allow for independence or isolation from other believers.
Spirit-filled freedom: A true believer desires to be filled with and walk by the Spirit of God. In doing so, they are empowered and released by God to freely give of themselves for the benefit of others.
Servant-leadership: A leader affirmed and approved by God understands they are first and foremost a servant. Their primary character virtue should be humility.
Responsible stewardship: We have been called by God to be good and responsible stewards of all he has entrusted us with: personally (money, possessions, abilities, relationships and time) and communally (God’s good creation).
Hearing God: A good relationship requires two-way communication and God desires to commune with his children. God speaks to us through his Spirit (such as a small still voice, impression, peace and inspiration), through his word, through others, and through circumstances. He often speaks through all of these ways simultaneously in order to confirm His message to us.
Equality and value: Scripture teaches that all believers are equal in Jesus Christ, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, income or social status. It also teaches that every believer is uniquely called and gifted by God to serve him—without prejudice or preference.