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WHO ARE WE?
The Church of Christ in
Belle is a group of people bound together by a common love for, and faith in,
Jesus Christ. We exist here as a simple New Testament body, pointing those
about us to the God of the Bible, and Jesus Christ as His Divine Son. Our doors
are always open to anyone who would reach out to God for meaningful living,
worship, and Christian service. We believe in the Bible, not only as the
revelation of God’s Will for man today, but also as the only source of
authority in all religious matters. We implement no creed or statement of
faith of human origin, but seek only to live by the pattern of God’s Word.
OUR WORSHIP
Our worship is simple and warm, planned to help each individual to
commune rewardingly with the Father. Brought together by deep personal need
to praise God and receive His aid, Christians participate actively in each
expression of worship. Prayers are led by men of the congregation, offered as
their heartfelt expression to God. Congregational singing furnishes
opportunity for individual expression of praise to God and loving
encouragement to others. Observance of the Lord’s Supper provides communion
with the crucified and resurrected Savior. Attention to God’s Word is given a
prominent place in each service, with a special effort being made in its
application to our lives today. We seek to do these things with the attitude
enjoined by Christ when He said, “God is a Spirit, and they who worship
Him must worship in spirit and truth.” - John 4:24
A SELF-GOVERNED INDEPENDENT BODY
Each congregation of the Church of Christ itself is autonomous, that is
self-governing. We have no central headquarters to whom we must answer and by
whom we must conduct our programs of work. The church in Belle is a free,
independent congregation, led by our local elders, with Christ alone as head.
We do, however, enjoy a spiritual closeness to other Churches of Christ
throughout the world. We are free to study, teach, and work as our
consciences, directed by the Bible, lead us.
OUR PLEA: A RETURN TO THE NEW TESTAMENT PATTERN OF FAITH AND PRACTICE
The Word of God is said to be the seed of the Kingdom (Luke 8:11). We
believe when that seed is planted in the hearts of men today that it will
produce the same fruit that it did in the early church. Since the Scriptures
are sufficient for our every need, we strive to teach only those things that
are found therein (I Timothy 3:16, I Peter 4:11). The congregation of the
Church of Christ in Belle wish only to be New Testament Christians. However,
our effort to be simply “Christians” in no way claims that we have attained
everything the name represents. We confess shortcomings, but we believe we
are called together in fellowship with Christ and with one another to supply
our need.
WE STRIVE TO BE FRIENDLY
Friendliness is, we believe, a natural attitude among people of God. We
strive to show our love and concern to each other and especially to those who
visit our services. We are so happy you have come our way. If you welcome
warm, genuine association and a challenge to serve and live for your Creator,
you will appreciate fellowship with us. If you long for the power, direction,
and purpose He can give your life, come worship with us.
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