sTATEMENT OF FAITH
World Ministries International believes in the following essential fundamentals of faith:
1) WE BELIEVE in the unique divine inspiration of all the canonical books of the Old and New Testaments, as originally given, and that they are infallibly and uniquely authoritative and free from error of any sort, In all matters with which they deal, scientific and historical as well as moral and theological.
2) WE BELIEVE in the special creation of the existing space-time universe and all its basic systems and kinds of organisms in the six literal days of the creation week.
3) WE BELIEVE in the full historicity and perspicuity of the biblical record of primeval history, including the literal existence of Adam and Eve as the progenitors of all people, the literal Fall and resultant divine curse on the creation, the world-wide cataclysmic deluge and the origin of nations and languages at the Tower of Babel.
4) WE BELIEVE in the triune Godhead: one eternal, transcendent, omnipotent and personal God existing in three Persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
5) WE BELIEVE that God the Father, the first person of the Divine Trinity, is infinite spirit -- sovereign, eternal and unchangeable in all His attributes. He is worthy of honor, adoration and obedience.
6) WE BELIEVE in the perfect, sinless humanity and the absolute, full deity of the Lord Jesus Christ, indissolubly united in one divine-human person since His unique incarnation by miraculous conception and virgin birth.
7) WE BELIEVE in the substitutionary and redemptive sacrifice of Jesus Christ for the sin of the world, through His literal physical death, burial and resurrection, followed by His bodily ascension into heaven.
8) WE BELIEVE in personal salvation from the eternal penalty of sin provided solely by the grace of God on the basis of the atoning death and resurrection of Christ, to be received only through personal faith in His person and work.
9) WE BELIEVE that the Holy Spirit is the third person of the Godhead who convicts, regenerates, indwells and seals all believers in Christ and fills those who yield to Him. The Holy Spirit gives spiritual gifts to all believers; however, the manifestation of any particular gift is not required as evidence of salvation.
10) WE BELIEVE in the Baptism of The Holy Spirit, with the evidence of speaking in other tongues. Spiritual gifts such as tongues, miracles, gifts of healing, word of wisdom, word of knowledge, prophecy and more are also available to believers and are given as the Holy Spirit determines, as we covet the things of God and submit our will to His word (Acts 2:4; 1 Corinthians 12:7-11).
When Jesus ascended, He instructed His followers to go and make disciples in the nations. Before making disciples, they were to go and tarry for the baptism of the Holy Spirit so they could represent Him on earth with the same power, authority and spiritual gifts.
11) WE BELIEVE in the existence of a personal, malignant being called Satan who acts as a tempter and accuser, for whom the place of eternal punishment was prepared, where all who die outside of Christ shall be confined in conscious torment for eternity.
12) WE BELIEVE in the future, personal, bodily return of Jesus Christ to the earth to judge and purge sin, to establish His eternal Kingdom and to consummate and fulfill His purposes in the works of creation and redemption with eternal rewards and punishments.
13) WE BELIEVE in the literal, visible, personal return of Jesus Christ for His church. At this event, the dead in Christ and living believers will be translated to meet Him in the air.
14) WE BELIEVE in the priesthood of all believers so that every Christian has direct access to God in prayer through Jesus Christ, our Great High Priest, and that there is no mediator between God and humanity other than Jesus Christ.
2) WE BELIEVE in the special creation of the existing space-time universe and all its basic systems and kinds of organisms in the six literal days of the creation week.
3) WE BELIEVE in the full historicity and perspicuity of the biblical record of primeval history, including the literal existence of Adam and Eve as the progenitors of all people, the literal Fall and resultant divine curse on the creation, the world-wide cataclysmic deluge and the origin of nations and languages at the Tower of Babel.
4) WE BELIEVE in the triune Godhead: one eternal, transcendent, omnipotent and personal God existing in three Persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
5) WE BELIEVE that God the Father, the first person of the Divine Trinity, is infinite spirit -- sovereign, eternal and unchangeable in all His attributes. He is worthy of honor, adoration and obedience.
6) WE BELIEVE in the perfect, sinless humanity and the absolute, full deity of the Lord Jesus Christ, indissolubly united in one divine-human person since His unique incarnation by miraculous conception and virgin birth.
7) WE BELIEVE in the substitutionary and redemptive sacrifice of Jesus Christ for the sin of the world, through His literal physical death, burial and resurrection, followed by His bodily ascension into heaven.
8) WE BELIEVE in personal salvation from the eternal penalty of sin provided solely by the grace of God on the basis of the atoning death and resurrection of Christ, to be received only through personal faith in His person and work.
9) WE BELIEVE that the Holy Spirit is the third person of the Godhead who convicts, regenerates, indwells and seals all believers in Christ and fills those who yield to Him. The Holy Spirit gives spiritual gifts to all believers; however, the manifestation of any particular gift is not required as evidence of salvation.
10) WE BELIEVE in the Baptism of The Holy Spirit, with the evidence of speaking in other tongues. Spiritual gifts such as tongues, miracles, gifts of healing, word of wisdom, word of knowledge, prophecy and more are also available to believers and are given as the Holy Spirit determines, as we covet the things of God and submit our will to His word (Acts 2:4; 1 Corinthians 12:7-11).
When Jesus ascended, He instructed His followers to go and make disciples in the nations. Before making disciples, they were to go and tarry for the baptism of the Holy Spirit so they could represent Him on earth with the same power, authority and spiritual gifts.
11) WE BELIEVE in the existence of a personal, malignant being called Satan who acts as a tempter and accuser, for whom the place of eternal punishment was prepared, where all who die outside of Christ shall be confined in conscious torment for eternity.
12) WE BELIEVE in the future, personal, bodily return of Jesus Christ to the earth to judge and purge sin, to establish His eternal Kingdom and to consummate and fulfill His purposes in the works of creation and redemption with eternal rewards and punishments.
13) WE BELIEVE in the literal, visible, personal return of Jesus Christ for His church. At this event, the dead in Christ and living believers will be translated to meet Him in the air.
14) WE BELIEVE in the priesthood of all believers so that every Christian has direct access to God in prayer through Jesus Christ, our Great High Priest, and that there is no mediator between God and humanity other than Jesus Christ.
Dr Hansen's View on two particularly divisive doctrines
The Sabbath:
The Sabbath is a topic that divides the church. I find this very unfortunate.
It is clear to me that Jesus and the Apostles, as well as the entire church, continued to worship on Saturday while Jesus walked the earth before he died on the cross and rose from the dead.
It is clear to me that after he ascended to heaven that Christians led by the Apostles continued to worship on Saturday.
It is clear to me that the Catholic Church instituted worshipping on Sunday instead of on Saturday because of their anti-Semitic position.
It is also clear to me that Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath as he taught the legalists who tried to correct him from picking corn to eat and healing the sick on Saturday.
I exhort all believers not to make a doctrine out of which day a person worships God.
I have pastored throughout the world and if I were to be in a country where people only had Friday off, as in some Muslim countries, then I would have services for Christians on Friday.
We should not attack one another in America, or elsewhere, if a person chooses to worship on Saturday or Sunday. Instead, we should major on real heresy and avoid separating the brethren over what day of the week a person can, or chooses to, worship Jesus Christ. Allow that decision to be solely between them and God.
The Rapture:
This is another subject that has separated Christians and even entire denominations.
I believe God is grieved over the problems that people and institutions have caused other believers concerning this event.
Some people have allowed this difference of opinion, as to when Christians will be removed from the earth, to become the focal point, eventually leading to the breaking of fellowship with their fellow believer.
Some Christians have been forced to leave churches or not be apart of leadership in certain denominations.
The Scriptures are not crystal clear as to what point Christians will be raptured, and for this reason we have a controversy.
I find no reason that a person should not be allowed to hold a different position/opinion concerning the timing of the rapture.
I believe a person should be allowed to hold a pre-tribulation, mid-tribulation or post-tribulation point of view without being attacked, alienated, penalized, etc.
Healthy debate is good and makes us all stronger, wiser and better prepared for both effective ministry on earth and the rapture itself, whenever that takes place.
Please do not allow this topic to divide or separate relationships with one another or in churches and denominations.
When we become judges in this area we cause divisions enabling the enemy to become stronger and the church to be more dysfunctional than it already is because of an overall lack of sanctification.
Love and work with one another regardless of position over this eschatological point of view. Amen!
The Sabbath is a topic that divides the church. I find this very unfortunate.
It is clear to me that Jesus and the Apostles, as well as the entire church, continued to worship on Saturday while Jesus walked the earth before he died on the cross and rose from the dead.
It is clear to me that after he ascended to heaven that Christians led by the Apostles continued to worship on Saturday.
It is clear to me that the Catholic Church instituted worshipping on Sunday instead of on Saturday because of their anti-Semitic position.
It is also clear to me that Jesus is the Lord of the Sabbath as he taught the legalists who tried to correct him from picking corn to eat and healing the sick on Saturday.
I exhort all believers not to make a doctrine out of which day a person worships God.
I have pastored throughout the world and if I were to be in a country where people only had Friday off, as in some Muslim countries, then I would have services for Christians on Friday.
We should not attack one another in America, or elsewhere, if a person chooses to worship on Saturday or Sunday. Instead, we should major on real heresy and avoid separating the brethren over what day of the week a person can, or chooses to, worship Jesus Christ. Allow that decision to be solely between them and God.
The Rapture:
This is another subject that has separated Christians and even entire denominations.
I believe God is grieved over the problems that people and institutions have caused other believers concerning this event.
Some people have allowed this difference of opinion, as to when Christians will be removed from the earth, to become the focal point, eventually leading to the breaking of fellowship with their fellow believer.
Some Christians have been forced to leave churches or not be apart of leadership in certain denominations.
The Scriptures are not crystal clear as to what point Christians will be raptured, and for this reason we have a controversy.
I find no reason that a person should not be allowed to hold a different position/opinion concerning the timing of the rapture.
I believe a person should be allowed to hold a pre-tribulation, mid-tribulation or post-tribulation point of view without being attacked, alienated, penalized, etc.
Healthy debate is good and makes us all stronger, wiser and better prepared for both effective ministry on earth and the rapture itself, whenever that takes place.
Please do not allow this topic to divide or separate relationships with one another or in churches and denominations.
When we become judges in this area we cause divisions enabling the enemy to become stronger and the church to be more dysfunctional than it already is because of an overall lack of sanctification.
Love and work with one another regardless of position over this eschatological point of view. Amen!
STANDARDS OF CONDUCT
In this day of disappearing moral absolutes, it is imperative that all Christians be reminded that the Bible, as the revelation of God's truth, must determine not only our doctrinal beliefs but also our lifestyle. In a changing world, the Christian has an unchanging standard, the Word of God. World Ministries International's STANDARDS OF CONDUCT are based on the teachings and principles of Scripture, seeking to develop personal holiness and discipline exemplified in a lifestyle glorifying of God.
World Ministries International has a goal of changing the culture of a nation with a distinctive purpose; included in that purpose is a person's total growth and development in preparation for Christian life and service. We are interested not only in imparting knowledge, but also in teaching biblical values and a lifestyle which promotes the tradition of conservative evangelical local churches. Only this can truly transform a person, family, business, city, state, or nation and bring peace, liberty and prosperity.
World Ministries International is committed to the highest standards of Christian conduct required to fulfill our stated purpose. In order to do this, clearly defined standards and regulations are necessary. Although the following abbreviated STANDARDS OF CONDUCT are intended to guide students who matriculate at our Institute of Ministry, it is expected that board members, administrators, faculty, pastors and staff members also serve as EXEMPLARS in modeling the lifestyle set forth. Annually, board members, administration, faculty, pastors, staff, those who take voluntary short-term mission trips, students, etc., sign a pledge to follow the STANDARDS OF CONDUCT.
I understand that my involvement in Christian work requires my personal commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ and separation from sin. I further realize that as a member of the World Ministries International community, I represent the Lord Jesus Christ, as well as the ministry. I am aware that Scripture prohibits certain sins (such as stealing, lying, gossiping, backbiting, murmuring, slandering, a whisperer, a talebearer, a busybody, profane language, drunkenness, sexual immorality, occult practices, cheating, and attitudes such as pride, lust, bitterness, harmful discrimination, jealousy, and an unforgiving spirit) which are to be avoided. In addition, I understand that certain types of activities are questionable and will avoid these activities as determined by World Ministries International for testimony's sake.
As a member of the World Ministries International family, I pledge myself to the following commitments:
1. To strive for excellence in all that I do;
2. To submit to the authority of the Scriptures in matters of faith and conduct and to the control of the Holy Spirit;
3. To cooperate respectfully with those in authority;
4. To participate actively in promoting the cause of Christ, endeavoring to win others to faith in Him;
5. To respect the interdenominational character of World Ministries International by not propagating potentially divisive doctrines;
6. To refrain from behavior that will reflect discredit upon my Lord or will offend a weaker brother, such as immodest or inappropriate dress, intemperate language or questionable action;
7. To use wisdom in selecting media (radio, television, recordings, various forms of literature, and films), recognizing that many performances and publications are not edifying and tend to defile the minds;
8. To refrain from gambling and attendance at night clubs, bars, and similar places.
9. To avoid the use of alcoholic beverages, tobacco and non-medical narcotic or hallucinogenic drugs;
10. To refrain from participating in oath-bound secret societies;
11. To exercise proper spiritual discernment in the use of the Lord's Day.
12. To abstain from any form of sexual misconduct and/or perversion which violates biblical standards. This includes, but is not limited to: premarital or extramarital sex, homosexual or lesbian activity, or the appearance of such activity. Sexual harassment, or use or viewing of pornographic material is also forbidden. I agree to accept World Ministries International's interpretation of biblical standards
I understand that the STANDARDS OF CONDUCT are a guide to my behavior on and off campus for the time I am part of the World Ministries International family. While it is recognized that personal preferences differ and that every member of the Christian community might not agree with every detail of these standards, I must honorably adhere to them. Such an attitude on my part is a way I can develop Christian discipline, exhibit Christian maturity, and demonstrate the love of Christ in concern both for the integrity of the ministry itself as well as for the personal welfare of other believers. Further, I understand that failure to cooperate in maintaining the standards will lead to appropriate disciplinary action and/or possible dismissal/termination.
I have read and fully understand the contents of the STANDARDS OF CONDUCT.
Signature_______________________________________Date____________
Please click on the links below for each of the Church Restoration articles. A Christian's behavior and conduct is so important for maintaining and strengthening relationships and unity. These articles will enlighten each one of you as to the importance of following proper protocol, as outlined by Jesus, for keeping healthy relationships between the brethren. A violation of Matthew 18:15-17 reveals a person is not really wanting reconciliation, but that the person is actually operating out of hurts, pains, bitterness, frustration, revenge, etc. This person is not working out of agape (God's love) but selfishness. The person violating the Scriptures does not want to protect, restore, and love the person he has ought against. Consequently, the person who has an offense, like Judas was offended by Jesus, becomes a Backbiter, a Busybody, a Complainer, a Murmurer, a Slanderer, a Talebearer, and/or a Whisperer. This is the number one problem in the church and in relationships between people.
World Ministries International has a goal of changing the culture of a nation with a distinctive purpose; included in that purpose is a person's total growth and development in preparation for Christian life and service. We are interested not only in imparting knowledge, but also in teaching biblical values and a lifestyle which promotes the tradition of conservative evangelical local churches. Only this can truly transform a person, family, business, city, state, or nation and bring peace, liberty and prosperity.
World Ministries International is committed to the highest standards of Christian conduct required to fulfill our stated purpose. In order to do this, clearly defined standards and regulations are necessary. Although the following abbreviated STANDARDS OF CONDUCT are intended to guide students who matriculate at our Institute of Ministry, it is expected that board members, administrators, faculty, pastors and staff members also serve as EXEMPLARS in modeling the lifestyle set forth. Annually, board members, administration, faculty, pastors, staff, those who take voluntary short-term mission trips, students, etc., sign a pledge to follow the STANDARDS OF CONDUCT.
I understand that my involvement in Christian work requires my personal commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ and separation from sin. I further realize that as a member of the World Ministries International community, I represent the Lord Jesus Christ, as well as the ministry. I am aware that Scripture prohibits certain sins (such as stealing, lying, gossiping, backbiting, murmuring, slandering, a whisperer, a talebearer, a busybody, profane language, drunkenness, sexual immorality, occult practices, cheating, and attitudes such as pride, lust, bitterness, harmful discrimination, jealousy, and an unforgiving spirit) which are to be avoided. In addition, I understand that certain types of activities are questionable and will avoid these activities as determined by World Ministries International for testimony's sake.
As a member of the World Ministries International family, I pledge myself to the following commitments:
1. To strive for excellence in all that I do;
2. To submit to the authority of the Scriptures in matters of faith and conduct and to the control of the Holy Spirit;
3. To cooperate respectfully with those in authority;
4. To participate actively in promoting the cause of Christ, endeavoring to win others to faith in Him;
5. To respect the interdenominational character of World Ministries International by not propagating potentially divisive doctrines;
6. To refrain from behavior that will reflect discredit upon my Lord or will offend a weaker brother, such as immodest or inappropriate dress, intemperate language or questionable action;
7. To use wisdom in selecting media (radio, television, recordings, various forms of literature, and films), recognizing that many performances and publications are not edifying and tend to defile the minds;
8. To refrain from gambling and attendance at night clubs, bars, and similar places.
9. To avoid the use of alcoholic beverages, tobacco and non-medical narcotic or hallucinogenic drugs;
10. To refrain from participating in oath-bound secret societies;
11. To exercise proper spiritual discernment in the use of the Lord's Day.
12. To abstain from any form of sexual misconduct and/or perversion which violates biblical standards. This includes, but is not limited to: premarital or extramarital sex, homosexual or lesbian activity, or the appearance of such activity. Sexual harassment, or use or viewing of pornographic material is also forbidden. I agree to accept World Ministries International's interpretation of biblical standards
I understand that the STANDARDS OF CONDUCT are a guide to my behavior on and off campus for the time I am part of the World Ministries International family. While it is recognized that personal preferences differ and that every member of the Christian community might not agree with every detail of these standards, I must honorably adhere to them. Such an attitude on my part is a way I can develop Christian discipline, exhibit Christian maturity, and demonstrate the love of Christ in concern both for the integrity of the ministry itself as well as for the personal welfare of other believers. Further, I understand that failure to cooperate in maintaining the standards will lead to appropriate disciplinary action and/or possible dismissal/termination.
I have read and fully understand the contents of the STANDARDS OF CONDUCT.
Signature_______________________________________Date____________
Please click on the links below for each of the Church Restoration articles. A Christian's behavior and conduct is so important for maintaining and strengthening relationships and unity. These articles will enlighten each one of you as to the importance of following proper protocol, as outlined by Jesus, for keeping healthy relationships between the brethren. A violation of Matthew 18:15-17 reveals a person is not really wanting reconciliation, but that the person is actually operating out of hurts, pains, bitterness, frustration, revenge, etc. This person is not working out of agape (God's love) but selfishness. The person violating the Scriptures does not want to protect, restore, and love the person he has ought against. Consequently, the person who has an offense, like Judas was offended by Jesus, becomes a Backbiter, a Busybody, a Complainer, a Murmurer, a Slanderer, a Talebearer, and/or a Whisperer. This is the number one problem in the church and in relationships between people.
