Part of our strength and stability is in reinforcing the reason why we exist and ensuring that each partner clearly understands and operates in his/her personal commitment to this ministry. As partners of St. Paul Church of Jacksonville, we believe that everyone:
1. Worships
Cultivating a relationship with God is the first priority of the Christian Experience. Every disciple is expected to actively develop his/her own personal, obedient relationship with God active in giving the utmost esteem to His presence, His power, and His Word.
2. Witnesses
Our mission is to make disciples of/for Jesus Christ. We do that on two levels: through evangelizing the lost and edifying the Body of Christ. All Believers are charged with leading others to Christ through consciously and consistently sharing our faith. In addition, our lives are to be aligned to the gospel to the degree that we become examples of Godliness to both the world and other believers.
3. Tithes
Malachi 3:10-12 clearly describes the Tithe as Godās will, the churchās means, and the saintās blessing. Tithing is an act of worship that shows us how to honor the Lord (Deut. 14:22-29) by giving back to Him a portion of what His grace has provided us. Every disciple of SPMBC seeks to honor the Lord through biblically-based giving, starting with the tithe as the foundation.
4. Are Caring and Covenant
We are āstriving to become the most caring, covenant, Christian community the world has ever seen.ā That means we make every attempt to live with others in the spirit of agreement, requiring that we respect and are responsive to the needs of others and the ministry as a whole.
5. Is Faithful in Attendance
In order to learn and grow in any arena of life, we must place ourselves in an environment that will produce the kind of growth we desire. Just as a plant can only bloom where it is firmly planted, such is the disciple. To grow in our faith and knowledge of God, it is important that we consistently plant ourselves in fellowship, study, and prayer (Acts 2:42; Psalm 92:13).
6. Is A Continual Learner
A Christian disciple is a learner, follower, and model of Jesus Christ. Though we serve a God that does not change, our understanding of God and His desire are constantly unfolding. Learners understand that education is an ongoing process. They actively expose themselves to revelation and quickly adapt their lives to it.
