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We believe in Jesus Christ. We believe that he existed as Christ, part of God, before he ever came to earth in human form. He is the perfect expression of who God is, made plain in human form. We believe Jesus was the unique Son of God. We believe that he was born around 2000 years ago to his human parents, Mary and Joseph, who were from Galilee in Israel. He went around the country side, preaching the Good News of God's Love. Jesus healed all who were sick, and he performed miraculous signs and wonders. Jesus called men and women to follow him, and to teach others about His way of life. Jesus encouraged his followers to be full of faith, hope, and love. He taught us to be peace makers, merciful, pure in heart, spiritually seeking, and faithful even in times of difficulty. He gave himself freely for others when they were in need. He lived a life of constant prayer and communion with God. He showed us what Love is all about. He gave us two special signs to remind us of God's care: Baptism with water, through which we are cleansed of our sins and initiated once for all time into Christ's universal Church; and the Lord's Supper, through which bread and wine are symbols of his life which was given for all people for the forgiveness of sins.
Jesus made some powerful enemies among the political and religious leaders of his day. They wrongfully condemned him to death. He died on the cross, a Roman instrument of torture and execution. Jesus was innocent and sinless. In a wondrous exchange, Jesus was able to take on our sins and trade us his right standing with God. He truly died and was buried, even descending to the place of the dead. On the third day, God's mighty Spirit raised Jesus from the dead and he is alive now for all eternity. He spent the next 40 days meeting with is disciples, even appearing to a gathering of over 500 of them. He then was transported into heaven to be with God the Creator, where Jesus reigns forever and ever.
Christ is our eternal Savior--he saves us from lives that are without meaning. He saves us from the final death and will raise us up to heaven as well. He prays for us through the Holy Spirit, and Christ's life will be the final standard of judgment for all who live. He is coming again--every day in glimpses of glory; at the end of our personal lives to take us to heaven with Him; and at the end of all time to establish His eternal Kingdom. We look forward to that glorious day when we will see our Savior Jesus face to face and we will feast at his heavenly banquet.
Today, we believe that followers of Jesus seek to be like Him every day. We try to be people of prayer. We want to learn more about His teachings and how to apply them to our everyday lives. We carry on Christ's ministry of caring for the homeless, hungry, and the hurting. We want to tell others about the grace and forgiveness that is available through Christ, and we welcome all who are searching for the peace of God.
We would be happy to discuss more about Jesus and what he means in your life. Please call the church office at (309)579-2147 and ask for Reverend Bill Adams.
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