What We Believe

BUILDING ON A SURE FOUNDATION

OUR MISSION

In Zion Assembly Church of God is to restore the New Testament church in these last days, by contending for the faith once handed down to the saints (Jude 3), and by working together with God for the restitution of all things (Acts 3:21).

OUR COMMITMENT

Is to build always upon the foundation of Christ and the apostles (Ephesians 2:20), and to walk together in the "apostles doctrine" (Acts 2:42). Therefore, the pursuit of holiness (both for the individual and the church) is our goal.

WE BELIEVE

The Bible is the inspired, inerrant, infallible, and unchangeable Word of God. The truths of the Scriptures are taught by prophecy, type, precept, and example, and are revealed through the work of the Holy Spirit. We accept the whole Bible as the Word of God with the New Testament as our rule of faith and practice, government and discipline.

In the Trinity, the Bible teaches the one eternal God exist in three persons: namely the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. These three have distinct identities, yet they form one undivided Godhead subsisting in the same nature (Romans 5:5;15:16,30; 2 Corinthians 1:20; 5:19; John 3:5; Ephesians 2:18; Titus 3:5). The Father is God (Ephesians 4:6), the Son is God (John 1:1-3; 10:1; Hebrews 1:8; Revelation 1:8), the Holy Spirit is God (John 14:17; 16:13; Acts 5:3; 1 Corinthians 2:10), yet there are not three Gods but one God (Deuteronomy 6:4). The three persons of the divine Trinity work together in perfect unity for the salvation of man (John 3:5; 6:44; 14:6,16, 17; 2 Corinthians 5:29).

The church is a visible body of believers formed and incorporated by covenant with God to keep His commandments. (Exodus 19:5-8; 24:3-8; 1Peter 2:9).Note: The following statements are not meant to form a creed, or to be thought of as an exhaustive statement of beliefs upon which the church is built. They are simply an abstract of some of the important and fundamental teachings and principles set forth in the Holy Scriptures, which form an essential part of the church's Rule of Faith.

ABSTRACT OF FAITH

Salvific Work of Grace:

Conviction is a revelation to man by the Holy Ghost of the righteous judgment of God. Through conviction, un-regenerated souls see themselves as sinners before God, experience guilt, and realize their separation from Him who is holy, just and good (Isaiah 6;1; John 6:44; Acts 2:37,38).

Repentance is the act of confessing one's sins before God, being willing to forsake them and turn to Christ with all of one's heart, mind, soul, and strength. True repentance can be made only in the spirit of godly sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:9,10), Repentance is manifested by certain fruit "meet for repentance" (Matthew 3:8; Romans 6:2). The act of repentance should be followed by water baptism [see below] (Mark 1:4, 5, 15; Luke 13:3; Acts 3:19; 5:30,31; John 1:19). Repentance is a prerequisite experience for justification.

Justification is the state of being void of offense toward God. It is made possible through the atoning blood of Jesus Christ. It is the act of God in forgiving the transgressions of a penitent sinner. Justification is the result of repentance and faith (Romans 8:1, 2; 3:23-26; John 1:7). The genuinely justified person has "peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ" (5:12). Justification signifies the pardon (forgiveness) aspect of the new birth.

Regeneration is the act of God in creating new life in the heart of the believer through the Holy Ghost. It is a definite and instantaneous experience. Man is dead in sins and trespasses through Adam, and can be quickened or regenerated only through faith in Christ and His atoning sacrifice (Ephesians 2:1,4,5; Colossians 2:13,14l John 5:24). Regeneration is the same as the new birth ("born again" experience).

Born Again is another term for the new birth. The result of this experience is a new creation, in which the believer becomes a child of God. Jesus said: "Ye must be born again" (John 3:3-8l 1 Peter 1:23). The new birth is a prerequisite condition for the experience of sanctification.

Fruit of the spirit is of divine origin. It is the very life of God poured into the heart of the regenerate believer. The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance (Galatians 5:22, 23). We are admonished in the Scripture to walk in the Spirit and not to fulfill the lust of the flesh (Galatians 5:16; Ephesians 5:9; Philippians 1:11).

Divine Healing is provided for all in the atonement. Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross provides healing for the whole man, including his body. Divine healing is effected by faith without the aid of medicine or surgical skills. In cases where one is healed through the assistance of Physicians, medicine, herbs, etc., God is still to be praised: for it is God who heals in any case. "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases" (Psalm 103:2,3; Isaiah 53:4,5; Matthew 8:17; 2 Peter 2:24, James 5:14-16).

SUBSEQUENT GRACE:

Sanctification is the second definite work of grace wrought in the regenerated heart by faith. In sanctification, the carnal nature is eradicated ("the old man is crucified") so that the believer no longer has the inclination or propensity to sin; that is, in sanctification the desire to sin is removed (Hebrews 10:10; 13:12,13; Romans 6:1-6; t Thessalonians 4:3; 2 Thessalonians 2:3; 1 Peter 1:2). Sanctification enables the believer to bring his/her body under subjection to Christ, and to live a life consistent with the spirit of holiness, and in accordance with the Word of God. Sanctification is a prerequisite condition for the baptism with the Holy Ghost.

Holiness is the result of sanctification. It is a state of grace and purity in which perfect Christ-likeness is desired and pursued (Matthew 5:48; 2 Corinthians 7:2). God has called us unto holiness (1 Thessalonians 4:7. ".....Be ye holy; for I am holy" (1 Peter 1:15, 16). "Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14; see also Luke 1:74, 75; 2nd Corinthians 7:1; Titus 2:11, 12; Ephesians 1:4; 4:13, 24). Paul expressed his desire to present every man perfect in Christ Jesus" (Colossians 1:28). Christ is returning for a church that is glorious in holiness: "without spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing" (Ephesians 5:27; see also Psalm 45:9-13).

Practical Graces:

Restitution is the act of restoring something wrongfully taken, or the satisfying of one who otherwise has been wronged (Matthew 3:8; Luke
19:8,9). This act alone does not save, but it gives evidence of a heart that has truly repented. Restitution glorifies the grace of God and supports the testimony of the believer. It also gives opportunity to reconcile with those who have been wronged. It is the fulfillment of the law of love (Romans 13:8). Some restitution should be made only with great care and with pastoral guidance, in order to avoid further offense or injury.

Sabbath means rest. Observance of the Sabbath in the Old Testament (the Seventh day) was instituted to point to the believer's spiritual rest in Christ under the New Covenant. The Old Testament requirement to keep the Sabbath holy is now superseded by the commandment: "Br ye holy," for in Christ the believer is enabled and required to live holy every day. Sunday is not the Sabbath, but is a day set aside by the church to give special attention to the worship of God and the fellowship of the saints (Hosea 2:11; Colossians 2:16,17; Romans 14:5,6; Hebrews 4:1-11).

Meats and Drinks -The prohibitions against certain meats and drinks in the Old Testament were not extended into the New Testament church. These ceremonial aspects of Mosaic legislation were "nailed to the cross" of Christ, and done away with in the covenant of grace (Colossians 2:13-17; Ephesians 2:15; Hebrews 9:8-11). What one eats or drinks (with the exception of intoxicating beverages) is now a matter of conscience, and does not violate the nature and principles of the kingdom of God (Romans 14:17). However, one should be mindful of the Scriptural injunction: "...whatsoever do, do all to the glory of God" (see also: Romans 14:22; 1 Corinthians 8:8; 1Timothy 4:1-5).

Tithing and Giving -Tithing is the giving of one tenth of one's increase to Christ, our High Priest. It began as a voluntary act with Abraham, was required under the Mosaic law, and carried forward by Christ as a discipline for the New Testament church (Matthew 23:23. Tithes are to be brought to the house of God and properly distributed by the ministers having the charge of the treasury (Malachi 3:10). Freewill offerings are to be encouraged and regarded as a gift from the heart. Tithing and giving into the church are part of God's plan to finance His work through the church on earth. We are required in the Scriptures to be good stewards of that which God has entrusted to our care (See also: Genesis 14:18-20; Luke 11:42; 1 Corinthians 16:2; 2 Corinthians 9:6-9; Hebrews 7:1-21).

Swearing and Profanity - Taking an oath is contrary to the Spirit of the New Testament. "But above all things, my brethren, swear not neither by heaven neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and your nay, be nay; lest ye fall into condemnation" (James 5:12). Jesus said, "But I say unto you, Swear not at all...But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil" (Matthew 5:34,37; see also Exodus 20:7). An affirmation of the truth is sufficient; it is acceptable even in secular courts. Similarly, the use of profanity reflects an impure heart and has no place in the life of a child of God (Matthew 15:13,1p; Philippians 1:27; 3:20; 1 Peter 1:15; 2 Peter 2:7; James3:8-10).

Intoxicating Beverages and Drugs - "Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging, and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise"
(Proverbs 20:1). The Scriptures teach against the consumption of alcohol or other intoxicating beverages because God has called us to perfect sobriety (1 Peter 5:8; 1 Thessalonians 5:6; 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 2:2). Believers are admonished not to"...give place to the devil." So-called moderate or social drinking certainly gives place to the adversary and thus believers should totally abstain (Ephesians 4:27; see also Isaiah 28:7; 1 Corinthians 5:11; 6:10; Galatians 5:21). Much of what is said about intoxicating beverages is true of drugs such as tobacco, marijuana, opium, cocaine, etc., impairs the body and is not in keeping with the teachings and principles of Christ the Scriptures. These things defile the body and are inconsistent with God's call to soberness (2 Corinthians 7:1; Isaiah 55:2; 1 Corinthians 10:31,32; Ephesians 5:3-8; James 1:21). Drugs used for medical purposes should be taken only under the care and direction of a Physician, and then only in good conscience.

Gambling: The principle of gambling is clearly denounced in the Scriptures (Exodus 20:17; Matthew 6:11-13, 19-21; 1 Timothy 6:9-10). It is seductive evil, associated with greed and covetousness, therefore, the church is opposed to gambling in any form: lotteries, casinos, sports-betting, on-line gambling, bingo, etc.

Unequal Yoke -- The Bible teaches against the children of God being unequally yoked with unbelievers. Binding ourselves with unbelievers in organizations and secret orders with an oath is contrary to the Spirit of Christ and the plain teachings in the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 6:14-17). As the espoused of Christ, we have covenanted ourselves to give undivided loyalty to Christ. "For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ" (2 Corinthians 11:2; Jeremiah 50:5). Membership in organizations which require an oath of secrecy should be dissolved before becoming a member of the church. "Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing" (John 18:20).

Spirit Baptism And Spiritual Gifts:

Baptism With The Holy Ghost is an instantaneous experience wrought in the life of the believer subsequent to entire sanctification. Christ is the agent, the Spirit is the element (Matthew 3:11). The baptism with the Spirit on the sanctified life is accompanied with speaking in tongues: "And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance" (Acts 2:2-4; see also: 10:44-47; 19:1-6). The baptism with the Spirit is a baptism of spiritual empowerment for service in the Kingdom of God (Luke 24:49; John 15:26; Acts 1:8); it also enables one to minister effectively within the church for the self-edification of the body (1 Corinthians 12:12-28; Ephesians 4:11-16).

Speaking In Tongues always accompanies the baptism with the Holy Ghost. The believer speaks in "Unknown tongues" as "the Spirit gives utterance" (Acts 2:4). "Unknown tongues" is distinguished from speaking by the gift of the Spirit in "divers tongues," that is, in languages that are known to man (Acts 2:6; 1 Corinthians 12:10; 14:2). In either case ("unknown tongues" or languages known to man), the manifestation of tongues (and interpretations) is always consistent with the Word of God (1 Corinthians 14:26). The gift of tongues is a sign to unbelievers (vv 14:21-23), but serve also for the self-edification of the believer.

Gifts Of The Spirit --There are various gifts and operations of the Holy Ghost (1 Corinthians 12:4-11). The gifts of the Spirit were in operation in the New Testament Church, but thereafter the church began to "fall away," and the manifestation of spiritual gifts began to wane. After the apostasy in the fourth century, and the ensuing "dark ages" of Christian history, the manifestation of spiritual gifts (particularly tongues-speaking) were almost non-existent (manifested on occasion mainly among so-called heretics and unorthodox Christians). In these last days (Particularly since early in the twentieth century) God is again pouring out His Spirit "upon all flesh" according to prophecy, in order to fulfill His eternal purpose through the church (Joel 2:28-32; 3:16-18; Acts 2:38,39).

Signs Following Believers -- Signs in the New Testament were mainly for the purpose of confirming the Word of God and Jesus Christ as the promised Messiah. As believers went forth preaching the Word in Jesus' name, the Lord worked with them and "confirmed the Word with signs following" (Mark 16:15-20). Miraculous signs follow believers in order to confirm the proclamation of the Word of God, to convict sinners, and to edify the body of Christ (l Corinthians 14:12-14).

Ordinances:

Water Baptism is the act of being immersed in water by a minister of the gospel, in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Ghost. It is commanded by Christ, and represents His death, burial and resurrection, which is experienced in the life of the believer (Romans 6:3-5). This ordinance has no power to wash away sin, but is the answer of a good conscience toward God (1 Peter 3:21). Water Baptism is valid only when the candidate is actually born again (Matthew 28:19; Mark 1:8-10; 16:15,16; John 3:22,23; Acts 10:47,48; 16:23). Water Baptism is identified with spiritual regeneration; it is not the door into the church.

Lord's Supper is a memorial meal, which calls to remembrance the sacrifice of Christ, who shed His blood for our sins. Jesus commanded that this sacred meal be observed "in remembrance of me" (1 Corinthians 11:24). The broken, unleavened bread represents His body; the fruit of the vine (unfermented grape juice) represents His blood. This sacred ordinance should be observed with holy reverence, only after careful examination (1Corinthians 10:16,17; 11:23-30). It is the outward sign of Christ's covenant with the church (Luke 22:20).

Feet Washing is an ordinance in the church. Following the institution of the Lord's Supper, Christ girded himself with a towel, washed the disciples feet, and said: "If I, then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet" (John 13:14). This ordinance is distinguished from the cultural practice of feet washing in the Middle East; it has spiritual significance and is commanded to be observed by believers (1 Timothy 5:10). The purpose of feet washing is not fulfilled through charity and good works. It is to remind us that we have one Master and Lord, who is the head of the church, and we are all His servant, and servants of one another.

Divine Sanctities:

Sanctity of Life -- Human life is sacred because it is created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). Taking of innocent life is thus strictly forbidden in Scripture, including abortion, infanticide, euthanasia, genocide, and suicide (self-murder). "Thou shalt not kill" (Exodus 20:13). Whosoever sheddeth innocent blood will not be held guiltless before God (Genesis 9:6; Numbers 35:30,31; Romans 13:8-10; Revelation 21:8).

Sanctity Of Marriage -- Jesus said, "Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder" (Matthew 19:4-6). Accordingly, marriage is between a male and female until death (Mark 10:2-12; Romans 7:2); as such it is a divine institution that should be held in the highest esteem among all men and women (Hebrews 13:4). Adultery, fornication, divorce and remarriage are sinful practices that violate the laws of God, and injure the home and family. Nevertheless, unfaithfulness (sexual relationships outside of marriage) is not grounds for divorce and remarriage, for "whosoever marrieth her which is put away committeth adultery" (Matthew 19:9). Therefore, those who remarry while their first companion is alive are not eligible for membership in the church (see Exodus 20:14,17;Malachi 2:14-17; Matthew 5:32; 1 Corinthians 5:1-5; 6:15-20; 7:2,3,).

Sanctity Of The Body -- Our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, and we are admonished to glorify God in our body (1Corinthians 6:20-21). "If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy" (1 Corinthian 3:16-17). We are also admonished to present our bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God" (Romans 12:1), and "... whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God" (1 Corinthians 10:31b). Incest, same sex unions, and all homosexual and lesbian relationships are strictly forbidden by the Scriptures. These practices are an abomination to God, though they may be sanctioned by a state or religious institution (Romans 1:24-28; Leviticus 18:22,23;20:10-21). Practices such as "body piercing," tattooing, mutilating and disfiguring the body, are of pagan origin and contrary to the spirit of the lives of believers (Cf: 1 Timothy 2:8-10; Romans 12:1,2; Isaiah 3:16-22; 1John 2:15-17).

Eschatology:

Per-Millennial Second Coming Of Jesus -- Christ is coming again in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory (Matthew 24:27,28). The dead in Christ shall rise first, then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air and so shall we ever be with the Lord" (1Thessalonians 4:16-18; see also 1 Corinthians 15:51-52). All who are caught up in the first resurrection (the "rapture) will attend the marriage supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:7-9). Christ will then return to earth and reign with the saints for a thousand years (vv 4,6; see also Zechariah 14:4,5; 1 Thessalonians 4:14; Jude 14,15; Revelation 5:10; 19:11-21).

Resurrection --There will be a resurrection for both the righteous and the wicked. The righteous will be raised at Christ's appearance in the clouds of glory. The resurrection of the wicked will occur after the thousand years reign of Christ on earth. "And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust" (Acts 24:15; see also Daniel 12:2; Revelation 20:4-; John 5:28,29; 1 Corinthians 15:12-23, 41-58).

Eternal Life For The Righteous -- The reward of the righteous is everlasting life in the presence of God "And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal" (Matthew 25:46; Luke 18:29,30; John 10:28; Romans 6:22; 1 john 5:11-13).

Eternal Punishment For The Wicked -- Those who reject or disregard the call to repentance and salvation are doomed to eternal damnation (John 3:15-21), in hell there is no escape, no liberation, no annihilation. Hell is the "second death," and is a place of eternal torment. "But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death" (Revelation 21:8; see also 20:10-15; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10; Jude 14 -15; Matthew 25:46; Mark 3:29).