Gretchen J. Stockman — Statement of Faith
I believe that the Bible is the inerrant and inspired Word of God, delivered to the world through mere men as they were moved upon by the Holy Spirit.
I believe in the triune Godhead, manifest in three co-equal Persons—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—yet who are One God.
I believe that human beings were created by God to fellowship with Him. Because of the transgression of Adam and Eve, sin entered the world and the sinful nature was then passed to all future generations. The Bible declares that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, therefore we are in need of a Savior.
I believe that Jesus is the Word made flesh, who is also the exact representation of God the Father. He was born of a virgin and sent to dwell among us, that he might become a living sacrifice and save mankind from broken fellowship and the penalty of sin.
I believe that Jesus Christ willingly went to the cross and was crucified, shedding his blood as the lasting atonement for mankind’s sin, that we might be cleansed and have eternal life. By accepting the free gift of salvation through faith in Jesus and His finished work, repenting of our sin with godly sorrow, we are redeemed and sealed by the indwelling Holy Spirit. This is the New Birth.
I believe that salvation is by grace and not earned by human endeavor, so that no man may boast. Nevertheless, true faith will prompt a man to good works.
I believe in the Baptism of the Holy Spirit which is received subsequent to the New Birth.
I believe in Water Baptism by immersion, as a public confession of faith and symbol of a person’s identification with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection.
I believe in the process of sanctification, the progressive work of grace into Christlikeness, commencing at the time of salvation and continuing until death and/or Christ’s return.
I believe in the second coming of the Lord and the resurrection of the saints. The dead in Christ shall rise first and then those who are still alive on earth shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.
I believe in hell and eternal retribution for the devil, the other fallen angels, and those who physically die in their sins without accepting Christ as savior.
I believe that the New Covenant, as recorded in the New Testament, is the prescription for life. It is the first and final word on all matters of faith, doctrine, and conduct of living. Whole-person health, peace, and a sound mind are obtained and maintained by continuously measuring thoughts and behavior against the yardstick of the Bible, and making adjustments accordingly.
I believe that every believer is called to the ministry, to use the gifts and talents he or she has been given for the benefit of others and the furtherance of the Kingdom of God. It is the responsibility of each member of the body of Christ to bear one another’s burdens, to laugh with those who laugh and to mourn with those who mourn. It is with this heart that I have chosen professional counseling as my life occupation