An "Art Terkeurst Statement" generally refers to a collection of doctrinal beliefs held by Art Terkeurst, the founding pastor of Newspring Church in Anderson, Indiana. The statement outlines the church's core values, beliefs, and practices.
The Art Terkeurst Statement is significant because it provides a clear understanding of the church's theological foundation and its commitment to certain principles and practices. It serves as a guide for the church's members and leaders, helping them to stay aligned with the church's mission and vision. Additionally, the statement helps to foster unity and accountability within the church.
Some of the key topics covered in the Art Terkeurst Statement include the nature of God, the authority of Scripture, the importance of evangelism, and the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. The statement also emphasizes the importance of personal holiness, discipleship, and service to others.
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Art Terkeurst Statement
The Art Terkeurst Statement is a comprehensive declaration of faith that outlines the core beliefs and values of NewSpring Church. It serves as a guide for the church's members and leaders, helping them to stay aligned with the church's mission and vision.
- Biblical Authority: The statement affirms the Bible as the sole authority for faith and practice.
- God's Nature: It declares that there is one God who exists eternally in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
- Salvation: The statement emphasizes that salvation is a free gift from God, received through faith in Jesus Christ.
- Evangelism: It calls for the church to be actively involved in sharing the gospel with others.
- Discipleship: The statement encourages believers to grow in their faith and knowledge of God.
- Holy Spirit: It recognizes the Holy Spirit as the one who empowers believers to live a godly life.
- Personal Holiness: The statement emphasizes the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God.
- Service: It calls for believers to use their gifts and abilities to serve others.
These key aspects provide a framework for understanding the beliefs and practices of NewSpring Church. They are essential for maintaining unity and accountability within the church, and for guiding the church's mission and vision.
1. Biblical Authority
The Art Terkeurst Statement's emphasis on biblical authority is a cornerstone of its theological foundation. It recognizes the Bible as the inspired and infallible Word of God, and as the supreme authority for all matters of faith and practice. This means that the Bible is the final arbiter of what is true and right, and that all doctrines, beliefs, and practices must be in accordance with Scripture.
The importance of biblical authority in the Art Terkeurst Statement cannot be overstated. It provides a firm foundation for the church's beliefs and practices, and helps to ensure that the church remains true to its mission and vision. It also fosters unity and accountability within the church, as all members are called to submit to the authority of Scripture.
In practical terms, biblical authority means that the church's teachings and practices are constantly being evaluated and tested against the standards of Scripture. This ensures that the church remains faithful to the gospel and that it is not led astray by false teachings or practices.
2. God's Nature
The Art Terkeurst Statement's declaration of God's nature is a foundational doctrine that shapes the church's understanding of God and his relationship with humanity.
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- The Trinity: The statement affirms the doctrine of the Trinity, which teaches that there is one God who exists eternally in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This doctrine is central to the Christian faith, and it has implications for our understanding of God's character, his relationship with humanity, and our salvation.
- God's Character: The statement also declares that God is holy, righteous, just, loving, and merciful. These attributes are essential to our understanding of God's nature, and they shape the way we relate to him.
- God's Relationship with Humanity: The statement affirms that God created humanity in his image, and that he desires to have a relationship with us. This relationship is made possible through Jesus Christ, who died on the cross to atone for our sins and reconcile us to God.
- God's Sovereignty: The statement also declares that God is sovereign over all creation. This means that he is in control of all things, and that he works all things together for the good of those who love him.
These are just a few of the key facets of God's nature that are affirmed in the Art Terkeurst Statement. These doctrines are essential to the Christian faith, and they shape the way we understand God and our relationship with him.
3. Salvation
This doctrine is central to the Christian faith, and it is clearly affirmed in the Art Terkeurst Statement. Salvation is not something that we can earn or achieve through our own efforts. It is a gift from God, made possible through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ on the cross.
- Grace: Salvation is a gift of God's grace. It is not something that we deserve, but it is something that God freely offers to us. Grace is unmerited favor, and it is the foundation of our salvation.
- Faith: In order to receive salvation, we must have faith in Jesus Christ. Faith is not simply intellectual assent to a set of facts. It is a deep-seated trust in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.
- Repentance: Salvation also requires repentance from sin. Repentance is a turning away from sin and a turning towards God. It is a necessary step in the process of receiving salvation.
- Assurance: Once we have received salvation, we can have assurance of our salvation. This assurance is based on the promises of God in Scripture. We can know that we are saved because God has promised to save us.
The doctrine of salvation is essential to the Christian faith. It is a message of hope and grace, and it is a message that is clearly proclaimed in the Art Terkeurst Statement.
4. Evangelism
Evangelism is a central component of the Art Terkeurst Statement, which emphasizes the importance of sharing the gospel with others. This is because the church believes that the gospel is the power of God for salvation, and that everyone deserves to hear the message of hope that it offers.
The Art Terkeurst Statement calls on the church to be actively involved in evangelism, both locally and globally. This means reaching out to people in our communities and sharing the gospel with them, as well as supporting missionaries who are sharing the gospel in other parts of the world.
There are many different ways to share the gospel, and the Art Terkeurst Statement encourages the church to use a variety of methods to reach people. This includes preaching, teaching, one-on-one evangelism, and using media and technology to share the gospel message.
The church believes that evangelism is essential to fulfilling the Great Commission that Jesus gave to his followers. The Great Commission is to go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that Jesus commanded.
Evangelism is a challenging but rewarding task. It can be difficult to share the gospel with people who do not believe, but it is important to remember that the gospel is the power of God for salvation. The church is called to be faithful in sharing the gospel, and to trust God to use it to change lives.
5. Discipleship
Discipleship is a central component of the Art Terkeurst Statement, which emphasizes the importance of helping believers to grow in their faith and knowledge of God. This is because the church believes that discipleship is essential for Christian maturity and spiritual growth.
The Art Terkeurst Statement calls on the church to provide opportunities for discipleship, both formal and informal. Formal discipleship programs can include classes, small groups, and mentoring relationships. Informal discipleship can happen through everyday interactions between believers, as they share their faith and encourage one another to grow in Christ.
Discipleship is important for a number of reasons. First, it helps believers to develop a deeper understanding of the Christian faith. Through discipleship, believers can learn about the Bible, theology, and Christian practices. This knowledge can help them to grow in their faith and to become more effective witnesses for Christ.
Second, discipleship helps believers to develop Christian character. Through discipleship, believers can learn how to live a life that is pleasing to God. They can learn how to overcome sin, how to grow in virtue, and how to serve others.
Third, discipleship helps believers to develop a closer relationship with God. Through discipleship, believers can learn how to pray, how to read the Bible, and how to listen to God's voice. This can help them to grow in their intimacy with God and to experience his presence in their lives.
Discipleship is an essential part of the Christian life. It is through discipleship that believers grow in their faith, develop Christian character, and deepen their relationship with God.
6. Holy Spirit
The Art Terkeurst Statement recognizes the Holy Spirit as the one who empowers believers to live a godly life. This is an essential doctrine, as it emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer.
- The Holy Spirit indwells believers. When a person becomes a Christian, the Holy Spirit comes to dwell within them. This means that the Holy Spirit is always with believers, guiding them, comforting them, and empowering them to live a godly life.
- The Holy Spirit convicts believers of sin. The Holy Spirit helps believers to see their sin and to repent of it. This is an essential step in the process of sanctification, as it allows believers to grow in holiness and to become more like Christ.
- The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live a godly life. The Holy Spirit gives believers the power to live a life that is pleasing to God. This includes the power to overcome temptation, to live in obedience to God's commands, and to bear witness to the gospel.
- The Holy Spirit guides believers into truth. The Holy Spirit helps believers to understand the Bible and to apply its teachings to their lives. This is essential for Christian growth and maturity.
The doctrine of the Holy Spirit is an important part of the Art Terkeurst Statement. It emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer, and it provides believers with the power to live a godly life.
7. Personal Holiness
The Art Terkeurst Statement emphasizes the importance of personal holiness, which is living a life that is pleasing to God. This is a key aspect of the Christian faith, as it is through personal holiness that believers can grow in their relationship with God and live out their calling as his followers.
- Living in Accordance with God's Will: Personal holiness involves living in accordance with God's will and commands. This includes obeying his commandments, following his example, and seeking to please him in all that we do.
- Purity of Heart and Mind: Personal holiness also encompasses purity of heart and mind. This means keeping our thoughts, words, and actions pure and free from sin. It involves guarding our hearts from evil and seeking to be filled with the Holy Spirit.
- Separation from Sin: Personal holiness requires separation from sin. This means avoiding activities and behaviors that are contrary to God's will and that hinder our spiritual growth.
- Living a Life of Integrity: Personal holiness involves living a life of integrity, both in public and in private. It means being honest, trustworthy, and reliable, and living a life that is consistent with our Christian values.
Personal holiness is not something that we can achieve on our own. It is a gift from God, made possible through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. As we surrender our lives to God and allow the Holy Spirit to work in us, we will be transformed into his likeness and enabled to live a life that is pleasing to him.
8. Service
The Art Terkeurst Statement emphasizes the importance of service, calling on believers to use their gifts and abilities to serve others. This is a key aspect of the Christian faith, as it reflects the example of Jesus Christ, who came to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.
- Love and Compassion: Service is rooted in love and compassion for others. Believers are called to love their neighbors as themselves and to show compassion to those in need.
- Using Spiritual Gifts: Believers are encouraged to use their spiritual gifts to serve others. This may involve teaching, preaching, counseling, or any other way that they can use their gifts to build up the body of Christ.
- Meeting Practical Needs: Service can also involve meeting the practical needs of others. This may include providing food, clothing, shelter, or financial assistance to those in need.
- Witnessing to Christ: Service can also be a powerful way to witness to Christ. When believers serve others, they are demonstrating the love of God in a tangible way.
Service is an essential part of the Christian life. It is a way of living out our faith and following the example of Jesus Christ. As we serve others, we not only bless them but also grow in our own spiritual lives.
FAQs About the Art Terkeurst Statement
The Art Terkeurst Statement outlines the core beliefs and values of NewSpring Church. It is a comprehensive declaration of faith that covers a wide range of topics, including the nature of God, the authority of Scripture, salvation, evangelism, discipleship, the Holy Spirit, personal holiness, and service. In this FAQ section, we will address some common questions and misconceptions about the Art Terkeurst Statement.
Question 1: What is the purpose of the Art Terkeurst Statement?The Art Terkeurst Statement serves several important purposes. First, it provides a clear and concise summary of the core beliefs of NewSpring Church. This helps to ensure that all members of the church are on the same page regarding the essential doctrines of the Christian faith. Second, the statement serves as a guide for the church's leaders. It helps them to make decisions that are consistent with the church's beliefs and values. Third, the statement is a witness to the world. It declares the church's commitment to the gospel of Jesus Christ and its desire to make a difference in the world.
Question 2: Is the Art Terkeurst Statement binding on all members of NewSpring Church?The Art Terkeurst Statement is not a creed or a set of rules that members of NewSpring Church are required to believe or follow. Rather, it is a statement of the church's core beliefs and values. Members of the church are free to disagree with some or all of the statements in the document. However, they are expected to be respectful of the church's beliefs and values, even if they do not personally agree with them.
Question 3: Is the Art Terkeurst Statement based on the Bible?Yes, the Art Terkeurst Statement is based on the Bible. The vast majority of the statements in the document are either direct quotes from Scripture or are based on biblical principles. The church believes that the Bible is the sole authority for faith and practice, and the statement is intended to be a faithful reflection of the Bible's teachings.
Question 4: Is the Art Terkeurst Statement a complete and exhaustive statement of faith?No, the Art Terkeurst Statement is not a complete and exhaustive statement of faith. It is simply a summary of the church's core beliefs. There are many other important doctrines that are not explicitly mentioned in the statement. However, the statement does provide a solid foundation for understanding the church's beliefs and values.
Question 5: How can I learn more about the Art Terkeurst Statement?There are several ways to learn more about the Art Terkeurst Statement. You can read the statement online at the NewSpring Church website. You can also attend a sermon series on the statement or read a book about it. Additionally, you can contact a pastor or elder at NewSpring Church for more information.
We hope this FAQ section has been helpful in answering some of your questions about the Art Terkeurst Statement. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us.
Key Takeaways:
- The Art Terkeurst Statement is a summary of the core beliefs and values of NewSpring Church.
- The statement is based on the Bible and is intended to be a faithful reflection of the Bible's teachings.
- The statement is not a creed or a set of rules that members of NewSpring Church are required to believe or follow.
- The statement is not a complete and exhaustive statement of faith, but it does provide a solid foundation for understanding the church's beliefs and values.
Transition to the Next Article Section:
The Art Terkeurst Statement is an important document that helps to define the identity and mission of NewSpring Church. It is a statement of faith that is based on the Bible and is intended to guide the church in all that it does. In the next section, we will explore some of the key implications of the Art Terkeurst Statement for the life of the church and its members.
Tips for Understanding the Art Terkeurst Statement
The Art Terkeurst Statement is a comprehensive and nuanced document that outlines the core beliefs and values of NewSpring Church. It can be helpful to approach the statement with a spirit of humility and a willingness to learn. Here are a few tips for understanding the Art Terkeurst Statement:
Read the Statement Carefully:
The first step to understanding the Art Terkeurst Statement is to read it carefully and thoughtfully. Take your time to read through the entire document and make note of any sections that you find particularly challenging or confusing.
Study the Bible:
The Art Terkeurst Statement is based on the Bible, so it is important to have a good understanding of Scripture before attempting to interpret the statement. Spend time reading and studying the Bible, and make note of any passages that relate to the topics covered in the statement.
Attend a Sermon Series or Bible Study:
Many churches offer sermon series or Bible studies on the Art Terkeurst Statement. These can be a great way to learn more about the statement and to get your questions answered.
Talk to a Pastor or Elder:
If you have any questions or concerns about the Art Terkeurst Statement, don't hesitate to talk to a pastor or elder at your church. They can provide you with additional insights and guidance.
Be Patient:
Understanding the Art Terkeurst Statement takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged if you don't understand everything right away. Keep reading, studying, and praying, and you will eventually come to a deeper understanding of the statement.
Summary of Key Takeaways or Benefits:
- Reading the statement carefully and thoughtfully is the first step to understanding it.
- Having a good understanding of Scripture is essential for interpreting the statement.
- Attending a sermon series or Bible study on the statement can be a helpful way to learn more about it.
- Talking to a pastor or elder can provide you with additional insights and guidance.
- Understanding the statement takes time and effort, so be patient and persistent.
Transition to the Article's Conclusion:
The Art Terkeurst Statement is a valuable resource for understanding the beliefs and values of NewSpring Church. By following these tips, you can gain a deeper understanding of the statement and its implications for your own life and faith.
Conclusion
The Art Terkeurst Statement is a comprehensive and well-crafted statement of faith that provides a clear and concise summary of the core beliefs and values of NewSpring Church. It is a statement that is based on the Bible and is intended to guide the church in all that it does.
The statement emphasizes the importance of biblical authority, the nature of God, salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, evangelism, discipleship, the Holy Spirit, personal holiness, and service. These are essential doctrines that shape the identity and mission of NewSpring Church.
The Art Terkeurst Statement is a valuable resource for understanding the beliefs and values of NewSpring Church. It is a statement that can help to guide and shape the lives of Christians everywhere.