Presbyterians belong to the historic stream of Christian believers who, beginning in the 1500’s in Europe, began to “re-form” their faith on the basis of biblical principles, instead of reliance on traditions. Thus, Presbyterians are heavily influenced and grounded in the school of Reformed Theology. We place a heavy emphasis on biblical training for believers and ordained clergy.
Those who are reformed in their faith believe, among other things:
(1) the Bible reveals God’s will for faith and practice;
(2) we are saved by grace through faith in Christ;
(3) we have a sinful human nature;
(4) that in response to God’s goodness to us, we practice stewardship of all God’s gifts.
The main thing that distinguishes our church from other churches is our system of government. We have a representative form of government through which we elect elders (a Biblical principle) to make decisions on behalf of the church.
First Presbyterian was established in 1880 by a handful of pioneers whose devotion to the Christian faith led them to establish a church, even before they had provided comfortable dwellings for themselves .
The beliefs you see listed below would most likely be found at other Christian churches. Your questions are welcome about our beliefs.
We believe:
1. In the Triune God: the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Deuteronomy 6:4-5; Luke 3:21-22; John 14:26;
2. God is in control. This belief is often cited by Presbyterians as the sovereignty of God.
Isaiah 55:8-9; Romans 8:28
3. Human beings are sinful and separated from God.
Romans 3:23
4. Only God can save people.
Galatians 3:22-24
6. Christ is the head of the church.
Colossians 1:17-18
7. Jesus is fully human and fully divine.
John 14:9-11
8. There are two sacraments: Baptism and The Lord’s Supper.
Acts 2:38; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
9. Christians should belong to a church.
Ephesians 2:19; Acts 2:42-27
