What we at PBC Believe
The Board of Elders has adopted the following doctrinal statement. It is
intended to summarize, but not comprehensively review, the basic doctrinal
specifics emphasized at Peninsula Bible Church (PBC). It is subscribed to by the
elders and the pastoral staff, but agreement with all its statements is
neither required nor expected of those worshipping or seeking the Lord with
us. We believe that the Christian faith is a progressive, individually unique,
process in which we are all at different points. Wherever you are in this
process, you are welcome to fellowship with us. Current Statement of Faith Original Statement of Faith PBCC's Current Statement of Faith
Concerning the Bible
We believe that the original writings of both Old and New Testaments were
breathed out by God to prophets, apostles, and apostolic associates by means
of the Spirit, who chose the words employed according to the personality
and background of the human author, and that these writings were without
error and are of supreme and final authority in the lives of believers in
any age.
Concerning God
We believe there is but one true God, who eternally exists as three distinct
persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, who exclusively share in the work
of creation, maintenance of the universe, redemption and judgment.
Concerning Man and His Need
We believe that man was created in the image of God, but because of Adam's
sin that image was damaged, and that all human beings are now born with
a sinful nature, are unable to function in moral responsibility before God,
and need a spiritual regeneration before they can become what they were
meant to be.
Concerning the Son
We believe that the Eternal Son entered the human race as the virgin-born
son of Mary, was named Jesus, fulfilled Old Testament prophecies of the
Messiah, was rejected by Jewish leaders, condemned by Pontius Pilate, crucified
by the Romans, buried in a borrowed tomb, but on the third day arose bodily
from the dead in accordance with the predictions of the Old Testament scriptures.
Concerning Redemption
We believe Jesus died upon the cross as a sinless substitute for sinners
of all ages and times, and that the Father was thus, by means of the Spirit,
reconciling the world to Himself. All who receive the risen Jesus as Lord,
by faith, are spiritually born into permanent membership in the family of
God.
Concerning the Holy Spirit
We believe that the resurrected Jesus ascended to heaven and on the day
of Pentecost sent the Holy Spirit to indwell, guide, teach, and empower
all who believe by imparting to them the life of Jesus so that they may
live godly lives and engage in loving service to any who are in need.
Concerning the Church
We believe that the Church consists of all who have been regenerated by
the Spirit, and finds expression as local churches, operating under the
direction of Jesus as Lord and Head of His body, through elders, pastor-teachers,
and evangelists, who equip the saints to fulfill the work of the ministry
as described in the scriptures.
Concerning Ordinances
We believe that salvation is a gift of God to all who place their faith
in His Son Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Jesus directed new believers
to follow that step of faith with water baptism as an outward symbol of
their spiritual identification with His death, burial, and resurrection.
Jesus also directed His followers to participate together in the memorial
supper to remember His death until He comes again in glory.
Concerning the Christian's Responsibility
We believe that all believers have been made new persons in Christ, through
spiritual rebirth. We are still capable of acting on the urges of the sinful
nature (the flesh) with which we once were identified. When we do so, we
can produce only works which are not pleasing to God. We can choose, rather,
to rely upon the Holy Spirit and His love living within us. The choice leads
to a fruitful life that glorifies and pleases the Father.
Concerning the Future
We look for the visible, bodily return of Jesus Christ to earth. The hope calls
us to holy living, genuine witness and encouragement of heart. The return of
Christ will bring his kingdom to completion, judge the world in righteousness
and fulfill his promises to his people (Israel and the Church). His future work
on earth will conclude with the destruction of all evil and the creation of
a new heaven and earth.
We believe that all human beings will be raised from the dead, at their proper
time, to participate either in eternal life prepared for those who have been
redeemed, or to participate in eternal punishment reserved for the devil and
his angels.
Ray C. Stedman Library Home Page
Updated 10/18/2006