Core Values

CORE VALUES

Core values determine who we are and where we’re headed.

First Church is a non-denominational congregation affiliated with the Church of God (Anderson, IN). If you’d like to learn more about First Church’s beliefs as a church, click here.

WHAT WE BELIEVE

We believe in a Worldwide Mission

“Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all people.” 1 Chronicles 16:24

We believe in culturally relevant, Biblically-based teaching

“Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction.” 2 Timothy 4:2

We believe in excellence that honors God and inspires people

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” Colossians 3:23

We believe Disciples make other Disciples

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20

We believe The Gospel of Jesus Should Be Shared with Others

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes…” Romans 1:16

We believe The Church Should Invest in all Generations While Passing the Baton to the Next Generation

“Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. By the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, guard the good deposit entrusted to you.” 2 Timothy 1:13-14

We Believe in Advocacy for The Marginalized

“Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.” Proverbs 31:8-9

We Believe in a Body of Christ that is Diverse

“That they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in my, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world will know you have sent me.” John 17:21

We Believe We are Contributors not Consumers

“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” Galatians 5:13

We Believe The Church has a Responsibility to Love the Broken while Encouraging Wholeness

“We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves.” Romans 15:1