Getting Started.
When you choose to believe in Jesus and turn away from your old ways to follow Him, you are saved—now and for eternity. You’re forgiven, and God doesn’t see the wrong things you’ve done. You can boldly approach God and have a relationship with Him.
THE PATH TO SALVATION.
Realise Your Need for a Saviour.
The first step towards salvation is acknowledging our need for a Saviour. We've all fallen short of God's perfect standard, but through Jesus, we find forgiveness and restoration.
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” — Romans 3:23
Believe in Jesus Christ.
Salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, who died on the cross and rose again to offer us eternal life. By trusting in Him, we receive the gift of salvation and reconciliation with God.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” — John 3:16
Confess and Repent.
Confession and repentance are essential components of salvation. As we confess our sins and turn away from them, God's grace covers us, and we are cleansed and renewed.
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” — 1 John 1:9
Receive Jesus as Lord and Saviour.
Salvation is not merely an intellectual belief but a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. By surrendering our lives to Him and making Him the Lord of our lives, we experience true transformation and abundant life.
“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” — Romans 10:9
PRAYER OF SALVATION.
If you’re ready to take this step, here’s a simple prayer to help guide you:
Dear Jesus, I come to you acknowledging that I need a Saviour. I believe that you died on the cross for my sins and rose again, offering me eternal life. I confess my sins and ask for your forgiveness. I receive you as my Lord and Saviour, surrendering my life to you. Thank you for saving me and giving me new life. In Jesus' name, Amen.
If you've made the decision to follow Jesus today, please let us know by filling out the form below. We would love to celebrate and journey with you in this new chapter in your life. Welcome to the family of God!
Who is God?
We are not followers of a distant and aloof God. Instead, God draws near to us, offering us the opportunity to know Him intimately and personally. Let's take a closer look at who God is.
GOD IS TRINITY.
Understanding the Trinity is a vital part of knowing who God is. God is one being who exists in three distinct persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit.
In the Trinity, we find that God is both singular and plural. The Bible illustrates this beautifully:
"Then God said, 'Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.' ... So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them." (Genesis 1:26-27 ESV)
Here, God speaks of Himself as "us" and "our image," indicating plurality, while also creating mankind in "His own image," indicating unity. God is three, and yet He is one.
Each person of the Trinity is fully God, deserving of our worship and praise. They are co-equal and act in perfect unity, each fulfilling distinct roles. The Father initiates, the Son accomplishes, and the Holy Spirit applies God's work in our lives. Together, they reflect the perfect relationship and unity at the heart of God's nature.
GOD THE FATHER.
God the Father, the first person of the Trinity, is the creator and sustainer of all things. He is the source of life and love, and His character is revealed throughout Scripture as one of power, wisdom, and compassion.
Creator and Sovereign Ruler.
God the Father is the ultimate Creator, bringing into existence the heavens, the earth, and everything in them by His word. His sovereignty extends over all creation, and He governs the universe with wisdom and authority.
"In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." (Genesis 1:1 ESV)
Loving Father.
God's love for humanity is demonstrated in His compassionate care and provision for His children. He desires a personal relationship with each person, extending grace and forgiveness to all who turn to Him in repentance and faith.
"See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are." (1 John 3:1a ESV)
Through Jesus Christ, believers have been adopted into God's family and can address Him intimately as "Abba, Father." This term reflects the close, affectionate relationship between God and His children, marked by trust, love, and reverence.
"For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, 'Abba! Father!'" (Romans 8:15 ESV)
Provider and Protector.
As a loving Father, God provides for the needs of His children and protects them from harm. He is attentive to their cries and faithful to His promises, guiding them through life's challenges and trials.
"And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19 ESV)
Just and Righteous Judge.
While God is loving and compassionate, He is also just and righteous. He holds all people accountable for their actions and will one day judge the world with perfect fairness and impartiality.
"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil." (2 Corinthians 5:10 ESV)
Faithful and Unchanging.
In a world of uncertainty and change, God the Father remains faithful and unchanging. His love endures forever, and His promises never fail. Believers can trust in His character and rely on His unfailing love in every season of life.
"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV)
As believers embrace God the Father as their loving and faithful Heavenly Father, they experience His provision, protection, and guidance in their lives, finding security and peace in His everlasting arms.
GOD THE SON (JESUS CHRIST).
Jesus Christ, the Son of God, reveals the nature and character of God to us. He is fully God and fully man, bridging the gap between humanity and divinity. When Jesus was baptised, God affirmed His identity and mission.
"And behold, a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.’" - (Matthew 3:17 ESV)
Why Did Jesus Come to Earth?
In the beginning, God created a perfect world where humanity lived in harmony with Him and each other. This design was marked by peace, joy, and a deep relationship with God.
"So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them." (Genesis 1:27 ESV)
However, Adam and Eve chose to disobey God, bringing sin into the world. Sin is any action, thought, or attitude that falls short of God's perfect will. This rebellion led to a broken relationship with God, and everyone since has inherited this sinful nature.
"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23 ESV)
As a result of sin, brokenness entered God's perfect creation. This brokenness affects every aspect of our lives, causing pain, suffering, and separation from God. We often try to fix this brokenness on our own, but our efforts fall short and leave us unfulfilled.
"For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God." (Romans 8:20-21 ESV)
Jesus: Our Saviour & Redeemer.
In response to our brokenness, God sent His Son, Jesus, to enter into our world and provide a way for us to be restored. Jesus lived a sinless life, died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins, and rose again, conquering death and offering us eternal life.
"For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23 ESV)
Through Jesus' sacrifice, we are offered forgiveness and a restored relationship with God. By turning to Him and believing in His work, we can experience true life.
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." (2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV)
Because of Jesus, we can recover and pursue God’s original design for our lives. This involves following Him as Lord and aligning our lives with His purposes. In doing so, we find the fulfilment and purpose God intended for us.
"And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him." (Colossians 1:21-22 ESV)
Saved by Grace.
Salvation is a gift from God, given to us out of His love and grace. We cannot earn it by our own efforts; it is received through faith in Jesus Christ.
"For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9 ESV)
Stages of Salvation.
Justification: This is the initial moment when we put our faith in Jesus and are declared righteous before God. Our sins are forgiven, and we receive new life.
"Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." (Romans 5:1 ESV)
Sanctification: This is the ongoing process of becoming more like Jesus. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, our thoughts, behaviours, and attitudes are transformed.
"And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit." (2 Corinthians 3:18 ESV)
Glorification: This future event will occur when Jesus returns, and all believers will be made perfect. We will be freed from the presence of sin and enjoy eternal life with God.
"Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is." (1 John 3:2 ESV)
GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT.
The Holy Spirit, often referred to as the Spirit of God or the Spirit of Truth, is the third person of the Trinity, alongside the Father and the Son. Throughout Scripture, the Holy Spirit's presence and influence are evident, from the creation of the world to the equipping of believers for ministry.
The Divine Presence.
In the opening verses of Genesis, we witness the Holy Spirit actively involved in the act of creation, hovering over the chaotic waters, bringing order and life into existence. This demonstrates the Spirit's role as the divine agent of God's creative power.
"In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters." (Genesis 1:1-2 ESV)
Personal Relationship.
The Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force but a personal being with whom we can have a direct relationship. Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit to dwell within believers, guiding them into all truth and providing comfort in times of need.
"But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you." (John 14:26 ESV)
Function of the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit fulfils various functions in the lives of believers:
Helper and Comforter: The Holy Spirit provides comfort, guidance, and assistance to believers in their times of need, strengthening them to face life's challenges with confidence.
"And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment." (John 16:8 ESV)
Conviction and Transformation: The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment, leading individuals to repentance and faith in Christ. He also works within believers to transform them into the image of Christ, producing the fruit of the Spirit in their lives.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law." (Galatians 5:22-23 ESV)
Baptism in the Holy Spirit.
Baptism in the Holy Spirit is a distinct experience occurring after salvation, where believers are filled afresh with the empowering presence of the Spirit. This baptism equips believers with spiritual gifts and enables them for ministry and service.
"And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance." (Acts 2:4 ESV)
Equipping for Mission.
Equipped by the Holy Spirit, believers are enabled to carry out the Great Commission, proclaiming the gospel message to the ends of the earth and making disciples of all nations.
"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth." (Acts 1:8 ESV)
Through the Holy Spirit's guidance and presence, believers are enabled to fulfil their God-given purpose and advance the kingdom of God on earth.
Water Baptism.
Water baptism is the next step for every believer after accepting Jesus Christ as their Saviour. It is an act of obedience and public declaration of one's faith in Jesus Christ.
"And Peter said to them, ‘Repent and be baptised every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.’" (Acts 2:38 ESV)
What is Water Baptism?
Water baptism is an outward expression of an inward transformation. It is a public declaration of our faith in Jesus Christ and our commitment to follow Him. Unlike being baptised in the Holy Spirit or being christened as a child, water baptism is a deliberate act of obedience following a personal decision to trust in Christ.
"We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life." (Romans 6:4 ESV)
The term "baptism" comes from the Greek word 'baptizo,' which means to immerse, dip, or submerge. In ancient times, blacksmiths used this term to describe the act of plunging hot metal into water to cool it. Similarly, water baptism symbolises a transformative process for believers.
"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising 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 ESV)
What Water Baptism Represents.
A Bath: Symbolising cleansing, baptism represents the washing away of sins. Just as water cleanses the body, the act of baptism signifies the believer's purification from sin through Jesus.
"But if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9 ESV)
A Burial: When believers are immersed in water, it symbolises their death to sin and their old way of life. This act of submersion reflects Jesus' death and burial.
"We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life." (Romans 6:4 ESV)
A Beginning: Emerging from the water signifies a believer's resurrection into a new life in Christ. This new beginning marks the transformation and renewal that comes from a relationship with Jesus.
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." (2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV)
Through baptism, believers publicly proclaim their allegiance to Christ and their commitment to walk in obedience to His commands. It is a tangible expression of faith and a powerful testimony to the transformative work of God in their lives.
Ready to take the plunge? Let us know!
Growing your faith.
Growing in your faith is a lifelong journey that draws you closer to God and transforms your life. Here are some key practices to help you deepen your relationship with Him.
PRAYER.
Prayer is a vital part of your relationship with God. It’s more than just talking to Him; it’s a two-way conversation where you also listen for His voice and guidance.
Why Pray?
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Communication with God: Prayer allows you to share your heart with God and listen for His response.
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Strength and Guidance: Through prayer, you receive strength and guidance for your daily life.
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Peace and Comfort: Spending time in prayer brings peace and comfort, knowing that God is with you.
How to Pray:
Starting out with prayer can feel awkward so a routine and plan can help.
1. Adoration: Begin by praising God for who He is.
“Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised, and his greatness is unsearchable.” (Psalm 145:3 ESV)
2. Thanksgiving: Thank God for His blessings and faithfulness.
“Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.” (Psalm 136:1 ESV)
3. Confession: Confess your sins and ask for His forgiveness.
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9 ESV)
4. Supplication: Bring your needs and the needs of others before God.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” ( Philippians 4:6 ESV)
5. Listening: Take time to listen to what God may be saying to you.
“Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10 ESV)
THE WORD.
Reading the Bible is essential for spiritual growth. It is God’s inspired Word and provides wisdom, encouragement, and guidance for your life.
Why Read the Bible?
God’s Revelation: The Bible reveals who God is and His plan for humanity.
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16 ESV)
Spiritual Nourishment: It feeds your soul and strengthens your faith.
“But he answered, ‘It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” (Matthew 4:4 ESV)
Guidance and Wisdom: It provides direction for making wise decisions.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105 ESV)
How to Read the Bible.
1. Choose a Readable Translation: We recommend the English Standard Version (ESV).
2. Start a Bible Reading Plan: With 66 books contained within the Bible, it can sometimes be overwhelming as to where to start. A Bible Reading Plan is a great way to begin the journey! You can also start with the Gospels - Matthew, Mark, Luke & John which outline the life and ministry of Jesus.
3. Read Regularly: Set aside time daily to read and reflect on God’s Word.
4. Pray for Understanding: Ask God to help you understand and apply what you read.
5. Write It Down: Take notes on key verses and insights using the S.O.A.P. method:
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S: Scripture – Write down a verse that stands out.
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O: Observation – Note what you learn from it.
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A: Application – Think about how it applies to your life.
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P: Prayer – Pray about what you’ve read and ask God to help you live it out.
COMMUNITY.
Being part of a faith community is crucial for growth. Church is not just a place you go, but a family you belong to.
Why Community?
Support and Encouragement: Find strength and encouragement from fellow believers.
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another.” (Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV)
Accountability: Help each other stay committed to following Jesus.
“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17 ESV)
Growth and Learning: Learn from others and grow together in your faith.
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” (1 Peter 4:10 ESV)
How to Engage in Community:
1. Join a Local Church: Find a church where you can worship, serve, and grow.
2. Participate in LifeGroups / build relationships: Get involved in a lifegroup or Bible study for deeper connection with God and fellow believers.
3. Serve Others: Use your gifts to serve in the church and community.
Remember, growing in faith is a journey, and these practices will help you stay connected to God and build a strong foundation in Him.