What is a Bible Believing Church?

Author

Elder Jim Fairchild

In the diverse landscape of Christianity, you may have come across the term “Bible Believing Church.” This phrase is more than just a label; it signifies a particular approach to faith and worship. But what exactly is a Bible Believing Church, and what distinguishes it from other faith communities? 

In this blog post, we'll explore some characteristics of a Bible Believing Church using the Topeka Community of Christ church as an example, which we believe exemplifies all these characteristics.
​

A Bible Believing Church is one that holds the Bible as the authority in matters of faith and practice. Members of such churches believe that the scriptures are inspired by God and should be the foundation of their beliefs, teachings, and daily living. This perspective influences everything from worship styles to community engagement and personal conduct.

Characteristics of a Bible Believing Church

Scriptural Authority

At the core of a Bible Believing Church is the unwavering belief in the authority of the Bible. This means that teachings, decisions and practices are rooted in scripture. 

The church views the Bible not just as a historical document but as the Word of God, relevant and applicable to modern life.

"Continuing Revelation" asserts that divine guidance is ongoing, encouraging members to remain open to new insights and directions from God.

Christianity is centered around the life, teachings, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. At its core, Christianity emphasizes love, grace, and redemption, offering a path to a meaningful and purposeful life grounded in faith. The Bible, regarded as the holy scripture of Christians, provides profound insights into these principles, guiding believers in their spiritual journey.

With other Christians, Community of Christ affirms the Bible as the foundational scripture for the church. In addition, Community of Christ uses the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants as scripture.

We do not use these sacred writings to replace the witness of the Bible or improve upon it, but because they confirm its message that Jesus Christ is the Living Word of God.  We have heard Christ speak in all three books of scripture, and bear witness that he is “alive forever and ever”.

Scripture’s authority is derived from the model of Christ, who came to be a servant Therefore, the authority of scripture is not the authority to oppress, control, or dominate. If Jesus came to serve, how much more should the books that point to him be treated as a servant of the saving purposes of God.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being.” 
​John 1:1-3 NRSV

Emphasis on Personal Faith

Bible Believing Churches stress the importance of a personal relationship with God. This involves an individual's commitment to accepting Jesus Christ as their Savior and living according to His teachings.​

Scripture provides divine guidance and inspired insight for life when responsibly interpreted and faithfully applied. Scripture helps us believe in Jesus Christ. Its witness guides us to eternal life and enables us to grow spiritually, to transform our lives, and to participate actively in the life and ministry of the church.

We must stand up for what we believe in and spread the Word of God to those who are lost and searching for meaning in their lives. We must have faith in His promises and trust that He will guide us through difficult times.

What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but do not have works? Can faith save you? If a brother or sister is naked and lacks daily food, and one of you says to them, "Go in peace; keep warm and eat your fill," and yet you do not supply their bodily needs, what is the good of that? So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead. 
James 2: 14-17 NRSV

Community Engagement

A Bible Believing Church actively engages with and supports its local community. This may include outreach programs, community service projects, and partnerships with local organizations to address community needs.

"Blessings of Community" highlights the importance of gathering, supporting one another, and working collectively toward common goals.

A Bible-based church community, as demonstrated by the gospel of Jesus Christ, emphasizes the importance of community and its role in the spiritual development of individuals. By sharing our lives with others, we create a space where we can be vulnerable and open to God's grace.

“But be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves. For if any are hearers of the word and not doers, they are like those who look at themselves in a mirror; for they look at themselves and, on going away, immediately forget what they were like.” 
​James 1:22-24 NRSV

Commitment to Discipleship

Discipleship is a vital component of a Bible Believing Church. It involves mentoring and teaching individuals to grow in their faith and live out Christian principles in their daily lives.​

Being a Christian isn't just about what we believe;  it's about how we live. It's a call to embody the teachings of Jesus Christ in our daily actions, choices, and interactions with others.

Disciples are called to grow in their knowledge and understanding of the scriptures so that they may ever increase in love for God, neighbor, and self, uphold the dignity and worth of all persons, and faithfully follow the way of Jesus Christ.

The Community of Christ offers discipleship programs that nurture faith through education and mentorship, helping members to grow spiritually and become active participants in the church's mission.

Scripture is not to be worshiped or idolized. Only God, the Eternal One of whom scripture testifies, is worthy of worship. God’s nature, as revealed in Jesus Christ and affirmed by the Holy Spirit, provides the ultimate standard by which any portion of scripture should be interpreted and applied.
D&C 163:7b

Worship and Praise

Worship in a Bible Believing Church is centered around God and His word. Services are designed to glorify God and provide a space for congregants to express their faith through music, prayer, and reflection.

Worship provides us with a sense of community and connection. It allows us to come together and support one another, both in times of celebration and in times of hardship. Through worship, we are reminded of our shared values and our commitment to living a life that reflects those values.

Worship services at Topeka Community of Christ are meaningful and thought-provoking. The services are designed to inspire and challenge members to grow in their faith and to apply it to their daily lives.

We follow the Revised Common Lectionary for our worship ministry. Each week, we reflect on a passage from one of the Gospels and center our worship experience around it.  Some would refer to this as a Traditional Christian Worship format, however our worship format is not prescribed.

Click the button for more information about Topeka Community of Christ Worship Ministry.

Worship with Us

Our Standard of Belief

Radio Sermon about the Bible as Scripture in the (RLDS Church) Community of Christ.​

Audio recording from the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (now Community of Christ) "Hear Ye Him" radio sermons by Evan A Fry.  Although this sermon was broadcast over seventy years ago the message is still relevant today.
​

A Bible Believing Church is distinguished by its commitment to scriptural authority through the action of personal faith, community engagement, discipleship and meaningful worship. These characteristics are not just abstract ideals but are actively implemented in various ways to create a dynamic and supportive faith community.​

What do you think?  Please share your comments below.