CHURCH PHILOSOPHY
HOUSEHOLD OF FAITH is a unified fellowship of home churches seeking
to reproduce such churches as an active, visible testimony to the Lord
Jesus Christ and a ministry to the spiritual needs of the community.
THE GREAT COMMISSION AND THE GREAT COMMANDMENT
HOUSEHOLD OF FAITH is a community of believers committed to the Great
Commission and the Great Commandment as expressed in Matthew 28:18-20 and
Matthew 22:36-40.
Our aim is to make disciples through evangelism, incorporating them
into the life of the church and working to present each one complete in
Christ and equipped to reach others. We see this taking place primarily
through the multiplication of home churches in the metroplex and the establishment
of local churches in various parts of the world. In the broader scope,
we desire "sister church" relationships with local churches of similar
concern in the United States and other countries. In conjunction with this
it is our goal to see people sent out from our fellowship as an extension
of our church.
THE HOME CHURCH PRIORITY
We feel that much of the best ministry of the church takes place
when families gather in small groups to worship God and minister to one
another. Within HOUSEHOLD OF FAITH the Home Church is fundamental to our
concept of the local church and designed to be a life changing organism
for carrying out the Great Commission.
AUTHORITY AND STRUCTURE
God has placed elders in authority over the local church. We oppose
heavy handed authority but recognize the necessity of biblical submission
to one
another and to church leadership.
In dependence upon the Lord we set goals, use sound management principles,
and seek knowledgeable counselors, encouraging each individual member to
use his spiritual gifts in response to the needs of the church.
AN ORDERLY PERSONAL LIFE
In order to glorify God and carry out our task each believer, especially
an elder, must be above reproach, ruling his family well, temperate in
all things, managing personal finances and not controlled by greed or lust.
CHURCH MEMBERSHIP
We view this church as a family, an organic unit called together
by God to carry out our part in the Great Commission in accordance with
God’s leading. Because we want to be certain that this is the Lord’s place
of ministry for you and because we want you to be convinced of that also,
we do not encourage anyone to make a hasty commitment. On the other hand
we do not encourage a prolonged waiting period.
We view membership as a process of seeking the Lord’s will and then
of "bonding" into our church family. When you understand the church and
feel at home with it then it is time to discuss membership. Begin seriously
considering membership soon after you begin attending. Here are suggested
steps in the process.
First, study the Statement of Faith and Philosophy of Ministry found
in this bulletin. Make sure that you are of a clear conscience concerning
doctrinal issues and that you feel that the philosophy of ministry is compatible
with God’s working in your life. Then begin to ask God to confirm His will
for you. Discuss with the Elders, Deacons or other church leaders any concerns
or anything that needs clarification. We believe that God is the one who
adds his people to any specific local church and we want each member of
the Body to serve where God wants him.
Second, attend every possible meeting and social function, get to
know the Elders, Deacons and other church leaders, take the opportunity
to spend time in the homes of members and feel free to take the initiative
to invite others into your home.
Third, ask yourself, are the church beliefs in line with the Bible
and my convictions? Does the church demonstrate fruitfulness and the blessing
of the Lord? Is their approach to ministry similar to mine so that I would
be able to enter in without reservation? Do I respect the Elders and other
leaders? Am I willing to submit to their authority and work through difficulties
as they arise without leaving the church too quickly or for the wrong reasons?
Fourth, arrange to meet with the Elders to discuss membership. This
will acquaint you more fully with what we consider to be the essential
beliefs, philosophy of ministry and history of the church and give you
an opportunity to ask questions. The Elders will also want to hear how
you came to know the Lord, learn of your previous personal and church background
and your reasons for leaving your last church. Out of these considerations
we trust that together we may find the Lord’s place of service for you
and your family.