Salvation 101

We’re glad you have chosen to find out more about our church!
This class is the first of our four basic courses, an introduction
to the plan of salvation and to our church family that will clearly
explain who we are and what we are about.
NOTE: Scripture quotations used in our basic courses are taken from a variety of Bible
versions. We use the King James Version for its ACCURACY, the New Living Translation for
its READABILITY, and other versions occasionally for CLARITY.

THE GOAL OF THIS CLASS

My goal in taking this class is that I will gain
Biblical understanding about the experience of
salvation and the role of the church in my life.

The word “church” is used 80 times in the New Testament.

The L.I.F.E. Course Only 4 times does it refer to the church worldwide – every
other time, it refers to a LOCAL CHURCH. There are more
than 30 commands in the New Testament that you cannot

Salvation 101 obey unless you are a FAITHFUL MEMBER of a local church!
Joining a church family is probably the most significant
decision you will make in your Christian life.
In a family, some members are mature, some are
immature, some are strong, some are weak,
Our church exists to help people find LIFE some are sick, some are healthy – but all are
in Jesus Christ by … LOVED! That’s how it is at The United
Pentecostal Church!

L eading them to salvation The most important thing we do in Salvation 101 is review
God’s plan of salvation – after all, that’s the only way to
I nstructing them in maturity become a Christian! Some of you may have been believers
for a long time, perhaps coming from another church in
F itting them for ministry another city; some of you may be brand new believers, who
E quipping them for evangelism have never been part of any church before; some of you may
have had religious teaching from a church denomination you
grew up in; and some of you may still be “on the edge,” just
considering the claims of Jesus Christ. Whoever you are – Clear Conscience Fulfillment Freedom
Welcome to the United Pentecostal Church! Romans 8:1 Philippians 4:19 John 8:32, 36

The crucial thing is to know what the BIBLE says

about salvation, not just what a CHURCH If this is the kind of lifestyle that God intends for us to live,
teaches. Contrary to what you might think, they why are most people still searching for real happiness?
are not always one and the same!
WHAT’S THE PROBLEM?
WHY AM I HERE?
1. Man has a natural desire to be his own boss and to
Most people live their entire lives without ever knowing ignore God’s principles for living. The Bible calls this
“WHY?” They exist year after year with no idea of why they attitude SIN.
live or God’s purpose for their lives. The most basic question a
“All of us, like sheep, have gone astray, and each of us has turned to
person can ask is, “What is the meaning of my life?” his own way.” (Isaiah 53:6)
Everyone wants to be happy, and people try to achieve
happiness in many ways: “If we say that we never sin, we are only fooling ourselves, and refuse
to accept the truth.” (1 John 1:8)
• Some look for happiness by acquiring possessions.
• Some look for happiness by experiencing pleasure. 2. Sin breaks our close relationship with the Lord and
• Some look for happiness by gaining prestige. causes us to try to live our lives outside of His will.
• Some look for happiness by seeking power. “The trouble is that your sins have cut you off from God.” (Isaiah 59:2)
But real happiness only comes from finding my PURPOSE! “All have sinned and fall short of God’s glorious ideal.” (Romans 3:23)

1. I was created by God to have a personal relationship 3. When people have problems, they often try many
with Him. different ways of coping before turning to God.
“So God created human beings, making them in His image. He “There are ways that seem right to man, but they only end in death.”
blessed them, and said ... live all over the earth and bring it under (Proverbs 16:25)
control. I am putting you in charge.” (Genesis 1:27-28)
“Jesus said, ‘I have come in order that you might have life — life in all 4. Even when we realize that our deepest need is God,
its fullness!’” (John 10:10) we often try wrong ways of getting to know Him.
• “I come from a Christian family”
2. When I love the Lord and live in harmony with His • “I’ll give up all my bad habits.”
purpose, it produces incredible benefits! • “I’ll work real hard and earn salvation.”
• “I’ll be religious and go to church.”
Power and Strength Real Life and Peace
Help with • “My religion teaches it a different way.”
Philippians 4:13 Romans 8:6
Weaknesses • “It doesn’t matter what you believe – just be sincere.”
Romans 8:26
• “I’m as good as the next guy.”
Purpose Confidence Security
Romans 8:28 Romans 8:31 Romans 8:39
 “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the
WHAT’S THE SOLUTION? name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the
gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 2:38)
1. God came to earth as a human being to bring us
3. God did this for us because He loves us and He
back to Himself. The solution is a SAVIOR!
“(Jesus said) I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to wants us to have a second chance to be His children
the Father, except through Me!” (John 14:6) through being BORN AGAIN.
“God demonstrated His love for us in that while we were still separated
All of the major world religions attempt to from God by sin, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)
POINT THE WAY to truth. But Jesus Christ
“For there is only one God, and one Mediator who can reconcile God
says, “I AM the truth!”
and people. He is the man Christ Jesus.” (1 Timothy 2:5)

2. Jesus has already taken care of your sin problem! God has already done His part to restore our
relationship with Him. He took the initiative! Now
“For all have sinned, and come short
of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23)
He waits for each of us to individually receive
what He has done for us.

GOD WHAT DOES GOD WANT ME TO DO?

US “For the wages of
sin is death, but the
gift of God is eternal 1. ADMIT that there is a problem! Tell God that you are
life through Jesus
Christ our Lord.” willing to set aside your own selfish will, give Him first
(Romans 6:23) place in your life and receive His gift of salvation.

DEATH 2. BECOME a Christian by obeying God’s salvation plan

given to us in the Bible. (God requires more than mere
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever intellectual belief – He wants to really change your life!)
believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)
3. COMMIT yourself to a church family where you can
receive encouragement as you begin your new life.
Acts 2:38 is the way to cross!

Faith
1. The Bible teaches that it is absolutely essential to
US GOD believe in God, or we will never take another step
“But as many as “For Christ also hath toward being saved.
received him, to once suffered for sins,
them gave he the just for the unjust, “So, you see, it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who
power to become that he might bring us wants to come to him must believe that there is a God and that he
the sons of God, to God, being put to rewards those who sincerely seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6)
even to them that
believe on his
DEATH death in the flesh, but
quickened by the
name.” (John 1:12) Spirit.” (1 Peter 3:18)
2. Faith by itself is incomplete. Believing alone doesn’t righteous deeds, we find they are but filthy rags. Like autumn leaves,
constitute salvation. Real faith becomes the propelling we wither and fall. And our sins, like the wind, sweep us away.”
(Isaiah 64:6)
force that causes you to act on what you believe.
“Dear brothers and sisters, what’s the use of saying you have faith if 2. Repentance is not merely “feeling sorry” for your sins,
you don’t prove it by your actions? That kind of faith can’t save
although that is part of it. In fact, it is this “godly
anyone.” (James 2:14)
sorrow” that causes us to repent!
“In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is
dead.” (James 2:17) “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no
regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.” (2 Corinthians 7:10)
The Bible says that even demons BELIEVE in
3. Repentance is biblically defined as a “turning around”
God – and tremble in terror! (James 2:19) But
or an “about face” – an inward change of attitude
that doesn’t mean they are SAVED!
leading to an outward change of action. Unless both
of these occur, real repentance has not taken place.
3. Every step toward God must be accompanied by faith.
Otherwise, we would never obey Him! “… that they should repent and turn to God, and do works and live
lives consistent with and worthy of their repentance.” (Acts 26:20)
“For we also have had the gospel preached to us, just as they did; but
the message they heard was of no value to them, because those who “Prove by the way you live that you have really turned from your sins
heard did not combine it with faith.” (Hebrews 4:2) and turned to God.” (Matthew 3:8)
“(God says) ‘And a righteous person will live by faith. But I will have no
4. Repentance is absolutely essential for salvation. God
pleasure in anyone who turns away.’ But we are not like those who
turn their backs on God and seal their fate. We have faith that assures wants to save us, but requires us to respond to His
our salvation.” (Hebrews 10:38-39) love by turning from sin.
“Don’t you realize how kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Or
Repentance don’t you care? Can’t you see how kind he has been in giving you
time to turn from your sin?” (Romans 2:4)
REPENTANCE is actually the first step with action involved “People who cover over their sins will not prosper. But if they confess
that we take toward salvation. Faith precedes repentance; it is and forsake them, they will receive mercy.” (Proverbs 28:13)
the inward work that makes us want to repent. Repentance is “… And you will also perish unless you turn from your evil ways and
a personal but often public step bringing about positive results turn to God.” (Luke 13:3)
in our lives. Because we have a sinful nature, and have “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins,
committed sinful acts, it is essential that we repent. and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)

1. Repentance is not the same as PENANCE, which is 5. When I repent, I am applying the DEATH of Christ to
doing certain acts of devotion required by a priest to my life, making it effective in me!
receive “absolution” for sin. This is not Biblical, but “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and
merely religious tradition. desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there.”
(Galatians 5:24)
“We are all infected and impure with sin. When we proudly display our
 “Our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose
its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin. For when we • Those who are old enough to understand the
died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin.” (Romans
meaning of repentance.
6:6-7, NLT)

At The United Pentecostal Church, we wait until our children

Water Baptism in the Name of Jesus are old enough to understand the meaning of baptism
before we baptize them. Some churches practice the
WATER BAPTISM is the second step that God requires in baptism of infants, but this custom did not begin until about
obedience to His salvation plan. Repentance must always 300 years after the Bible was completed. This is different
precede baptism, for they work together to accomplish the from the baptism that is taught in the Bible, which was only
forgiveness of sins. In the same way, repentance without for those old enough to believe and repent. Instead of
baptism is incomplete. God’s Word teaches that water baptizing infants, we dedicate them to God in a ceremony
baptism is ESSENTIAL for salvation, and gives us very intended to be a covenant between the parents and God.
specific requirements as to the MODE (what is DONE) and The parents promise to raise their child in the faith until he is
the FORMULA (what is SAID) of baptism. For the purposes of old enough to make his own personal decision to obey the
our study, we are referring to baptism as a “second step,” but Word of God.
it should be remembered that there is only one NEW BIRTH.
The Bible commands baptism in the same strong terms that it • Those who have been baptized previously in a
commands repentance – they are inseparable. different way than the baptism specified by the
Apostles for the New Testament church.
LET’S ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS … “‘Then what beliefs did you acknowledge at your baptism?’ [Paul]
asked. And they replied, ‘What John the Baptist taught.’ Then
• WHO should be baptized? Paul pointed out to them that John’s baptism was to demonstrate
• WHY should I be baptized? a desire to turn from sin to God and that those receiving his
• WHEN should I be baptized? baptism must then go on to believe in Jesus, the one John said
• WHAT happens at baptism? would come later. As soon as they heard this, they were
baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.” (Acts 19:3-5, TLB)
• HOW should I be baptized?
“On hearing this they were baptized [again, this time] in the
1. Who should be baptized? name of the Lord Jesus.” (Acts 19:5, AMP)

• Every person who has believed the Gospel of 2. Why should I be baptized?
Jesus Christ and repented of their sins.
• To follow the example set by Jesus Christ.
“Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every
one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, “At that time Jesus went from Galilee to the Jordan, and came to
and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost … Then they that John to be baptized by him. But John tried to make him change
gladly received his word were baptized …” (Acts 2:38, 41) his mind. ‘I ought to be baptized by you,’ John said, ‘yet you
come to me!’ But Jesus answered him, ‘Let it be so for now. For
“But when they believed what Philip was saying about God’s in this way we shall do all that God requires.’ So John agreed.”
kingdom and about the name of Jesus Christ, they were all (Matthew 3:13-15)
baptized.” (Acts 8:12)
 • Because the Lord commanded it. your baptism, or be baptized together at the same time, it
is not wise to delay your obedience to the Word of God on
their account. Baptism is a Bible command, not a family
“And [Jesus] said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach
the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized
tradition.
shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.” 4. What happens at baptism?
(Mark 16:15-16)
• My sins are washed away or remitted,
• Because the Apostles preached it and the New accomplishing God’s full work of forgiveness.
Testament church practiced it. “And that repentance and remission of sins should be
preached in his name among all nations, beginning at
“And [Peter] commanded them to be baptized in the name of
Jerusalem.” (Luke 24:47)
the Lord …” (Acts 10:48)
“Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every
“And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the
one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of
Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing
sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 2:38)
believed, and were baptized.” (Acts 18:8)
“And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash
3. When should I be baptized? away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.” (Acts 22:16)

• As soon as you have believed and repented. • My conscience is washed and cleansed, so I can
be free from my past way of thinking.
“Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the
same day there were added unto them about three thousand “And baptism, which is a figure [of their deliverance], does now
souls.” (Acts 2:41) also save you [from inward questionings and fears], not by the
removing of outward body filth [bathing], but by [providing you
“That same hour the jailer … and everyone in his household
with] the answer of a good and clear conscience (inward
were immediately baptized.” (Acts 16:33)
cleanness and peace) before God [because you are
“And now, why delay? Get up and be baptized, and have your demonstrating what you believe to be yours] through the
sins washed away, calling on the name of the Lord.” (Acts resurrection of Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 3:21, AMP)
22:16)
• My body is buried in a “grave of water,” portraying
• Before you “get your life straightened out.” the death of my old life.
We don’t get good to get God, we get God to get good! If “Have you forgotten that all of us who were baptized into Jesus
you wait around until you perfect yourself, get everything Christ were, by that very action, sharing in his death?”
“fixed up” in your life, or feel worthy enough to be baptized, (Romans 6:3)
you will never do it. If you have truly repented, and are “And when you were baptized, it was the same as being
ready to leave your sin behind (with God’s help), you are buried with Christ. Then you were raised to life because you
ready to be baptized – NOW! There is no reason to delay had faith in the power of God, who raised Christ from death.”
your obedience. (Col. 2:12)

• Promptly, without delaying for other people. • I am born again “of the water,” portraying the birth
While it is a wonderful thing for family members to witness of my new life.
 “Jesus replied, ‘I assure you, unless you are born again, you (Romans 6:4, JER)
can never see the Kingdom of God … The truth is, no one can
“Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him
enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the
through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him
Spirit.’” (John 3:3, 5)
from the dead.” (Colossians 2:12)
• I demonstrate publicly that I am beginning a new
• I am brought into God’s covenant of salvation, life, committing myself to Christ and His church.
portraying the “cutting off” of my fleshly desires. “Those who believed what Peter said were baptized and added
“When you came to Christ, you were ‘circumcised,’ but not by a to the church – about three thousand in all. They joined in with
physical procedure. It was a spiritual procedure—the cutting the other believers and devoted themselves to the apostles’
away of your sinful nature. For you were buried with Christ teaching …” (Acts 2:41-42, NLT)
when you were baptized ...” (Colossians 2:11-12, NLT)
“That day about three thousand took him at his word, were
“In Him also you were circumcised with a circumcision not baptized and were signed up. They committed themselves to
made with hands, but in a [spiritual] circumcision [performed by] the teaching of the apostles …” (Acts 2:41-42, TM)
Christ by stripping off the body of the flesh (the whole corrupt,
carnal nature with its passions and lusts). [Thus you were
circumcised when] you were buried with Him in [your] baptism
5. How should I be baptized?
…” (Colossians 2:11-12, AMP)
• In a PUBLIC SERVICE if at all possible …
• I take upon myself the name of Jesus Christ, which
o Because it is a testimony to others.
is the only saving name.
Your baptism is a public declaration that you have
“For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put
committed your life to Christ and His church. If you
on Christ.” (Galatians 3:27, KJV)
choose in advance when you are going to be baptized, we
“All of you who were baptized ‘into’ Christ have put on the encourage you to invite all your relatives and friends to
family likeness of Christ.” (Galatians 3:27, PHI) attend the service. You will also be given a certificate to
“Only Jesus has the power to save! His name is the only one in commemorate your baptism.
all the world that can save anyone.” (Acts 4:12, CEV)
o Because it is an encouragement to you.
“Jesus is the only One who can save people. His name is the
only power in the world that has been given to save people. We One of the pastors will lead the congregation (your new
must be saved through him.” (Acts 4:12, NCV) family!) in praying for you, then he will lower you briefly
under the water and speak the name of Jesus over you.
When you are raised from the water, you will sense God’s
• I apply the burial of Christ to my life, making it presence in a special way as everyone rejoices with you.
effective in me. Take advantage of this time to worship the Lord fervently
“We were buried therefore with Him by the baptism into death, – many people receive the Baptism of the Holy Ghost as
so that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious they rise from their “watery grave!”
[power] of the Father, so we too might [habitually] live and
behave in newness of life.” (Romans 6:4, AMP) • By being IMMERSED in water …
“In other words, when we were baptized we went into the tomb o Because Jesus was baptized by immersion.
with him and joined him in death, so that as Christ was raised
“After his baptism, as Jesus came up out of the water ...”
from the dead by the Father’s glory, we too might live a new life.”
(Matthew 3:16)
 of the Lord.” (Acts 22:16)
o Because every baptism in the Bible was by
immersion. o Because the epistles conclusively teach
baptism in the name of Jesus.
“He ordered the chariot to stop. Then they both went down
into the water, and Philip baptized him. After they had come
“For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ
out of the water …” (Acts 8:38-39)
have put on Christ.” (Galatians 3:27)
o Because that’s precisely what the word “Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into
baptism means. Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?” (Romans
The Greek word “baptizo” literally means “to immerse or 6:3)
submerge under water.” It also has the significance of “Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen
washing or cleansing oneself. with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath
raised him from the dead.” (Colossians 1:12)
o Because it is the best portrayal of a burial and
resurrection. “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name
of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by
“For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And him.” (Colossians 3:17)
just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious
power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.” (Rom.
6:4)
o Because Jesus is the only name that has the
power to save us.
• In the NAME of the Lord Jesus Christ … “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is
given unto me in heaven and in earth.” (Matthew 28:18)
o Because every baptism in the book of Acts “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him
was performed in Jesus’ name. a name which is above every name: That at the name of
Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and
THE DAY OF PENTECOST: “Then Peter said unto them, things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every
Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the
Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive glory of God the Father.” (Phil. 2:9-11)
the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 2:38)
“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none
THE SAMARITANS: “Who, when they were come down, other name under heaven given among men, whereby we
prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: (For must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)
as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were
baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.)” (Acts 8:15-16) o Because Jesus is Almighty God!
THE HOUSE OF CORNELIUS: “And he commanded them The most important reason to be baptized in the name of
to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they Jesus is that He is God! The Bible teaches that Jesus is the
him to tarry certain days.” (Acts 10:48) Father (Isaiah 9:6), the Son (Matthew 1:21), and the Holy
THE DISCIPLES OF JOHN: “When they heard this, they Ghost (2 Corinthians 3:17-18). All the fullness of the
were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.” (Acts 19:5) Godhead dwells in Christ bodily (Colossians 2:9), and the
PAUL’S BAPTISM: “And now why tarriest thou? arise, and name of Jesus represents all the power and authority of God
be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name (Matthew 28:18, Acts 4:7,10). No wonder the Bible
requires us to be baptized in Jesus’ name!
 study, we are referring to the baptism of the Holy Ghost as a
“third step,” but we must always remember that there is only
one NEW BIRTH.

1. Throughout the Word of God, the Baptism of the Holy

Ghost is prophesied.
BAPTIZED “IN THE NAME”
“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the • It was prophesied by Isaiah.
Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.” (Matthew 28:19)
• Isaiah foretells God using stammering lips and another tongue
(Isaiah 28:9-12)
The Name • Paul makes reference to Isaiah’s prophecy in writing to the
“I am come in my
New Testament church (1 Corinthians 14:21)
Father’s name …” of the • Isaiah refers to the joyfulness of this experience as drawing
(John 5:43)
Father is … water from the wells of salvation (Isaiah 12:1-6)

• It was prophesied by Joel.

“And she shall bring
forth a son, and The Name • Joel foretells the outpouring of the Spirit upon all flesh (Joel
thou shalt call his
name Jesus …”
(Matthew 1:21)
of the
Son is …
JESUS •
2:28-29)
Peter informs us that the outpouring of the Spirit on the Day of
Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4) is the fulfillment of Joel’s prophecy
“But the Comforter,
(Acts 2:16-18)
which is the Holy The Name • It was prophesied by John the Baptist.
Ghost, whom the
Father will send in of the Holy • All four gospel writers record John’s prophecy of Christ
my name …” Ghost is … baptizing with the Holy Ghost and fire (Matthew 3:11, Mark
(John 14:26) 1:18, Luke 3:16, John 1:33)
“For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are • Jesus himself declared that John the Baptist was a prophet
complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power … (Luke 7:24-30)
Buried with him in baptism …” (Colossians 2:9-10, 12)
• It was prophesied by Jesus Christ.
• Jesus alludes to the Holy Ghost as rivers of living water (John
7:37-39)
The Baptism of the Holy Ghost • The Holy Ghost is the living water (John 4:10-14)
• When Jesus spoke of being born of the Spirit, without question
He meant being baptized with the Holy Ghost (John 3:1-8)
Receiving THE BAPTISM OF THE HOLY GHOST is the third • Jesus foretells of the coming Comforter, which is the Holy
step that God requires in obedience to His salvation plan. Ghost (John 14:16-17, 14:26, 15:26, 16:7-13)
God’s Word teaches that this “Spirit baptism” is ESSENTIAL • Jesus promises His followers that they will be baptized with
for salvation, and promises the Holy Ghost to every believer! the Holy Ghost shortly after His ascension to heaven (Acts
The Holy Ghost is the indwelling Spirit of God, which gives us 1:5)
• Jesus ascended to heaven to fulfill all these promises (Acts
the power to live a Christian life. For the purposes of our
 2:1-4) • It is called the spirit of adoption.
• Through the Holy Ghost we have been adopted as sons of
2. What is the Holy Ghost? First and foremost, it is the God (Romans 8:15, Galatians 4:4-7, Ephesians 1:5)
Spirit of God. Each of the following are synonymous
terms … • It is called living water.
• Those who have the Holy Ghost have tasted spiritual water
• It is called the Spirit of Christ. from a “spiritual Rock” (1 Corinthians 10:1-4)
• The terms “Spirit of God” and “Spirit of Christ” are used • Living water is refreshing and revitalizing; that’s what Jesus
interchangeably because Jesus is God (Romans 8:9-11) said the Holy Ghost is like (John 4:10-14, 7:37-39)
• Jesus spoke of being WITH us and also being IN us; the Holy
Ghost is the Spirit of God coming into our lives (Joel 2:28-29, • It is called power from on high.
Acts 2:16-18) • We are weak and need power outside the human realm; God
has provided this through the Holy Ghost which is power from
• It is called a baptism. above (Luke 24:49, Acts 2:1-4, 1 Peter 1:12)
• The Holy Ghost is an “immersion” of the Spirit; God’s Spirit • The Holy Ghost gives us power to be witnesses and live as
baptizes us into one body (1 Corinthians 12:13) God directs us in His Word (Acts 1:8, Galatians 5:16)
• Being baptized with the Holy Ghost completes our “one
baptism” into Bible salvation (Ephesians 4:5) • It is called the comforter.
• Jesus calls the Holy Ghost by several names identifying His
• It is called a birth. roles: Comforter, Spirit of Truth, a Guide, a Testifier and a
• Two distinct elements constitute the “born again” experience – Reprover (John 14:16-17, 14:26, 15:26, 16:7-13)
water baptism in the name of Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost
baptism (John 3:5) 3. Who can have the Holy Ghost? The Bible teaches that
• Jesus likened the Holy Ghost to birth of the Spirit (John 3:6-8) God is no respecter of persons, so ANYONE can
• It is called a seal. receive this wonderful gift.

• God gives us the Holy Ghost to seal us until the day of • God’s promise of the Holy Ghost is to be poured out on all flesh
redemption (Ephesians 1:13, 4:30, 2 Corinthians 1:22) (Joel 2:28-29, Acts 2:16-17).
• John the Baptist didn’t exclude anyone in his preaching about the
• It is called the earnest of our inheritance. Holy Ghost (Matthew 3:11).
• As great as the baptism of the Holy Ghost is, it is only a “down • Peter declared that the Holy Ghost was for the Jews and those
payment” on what we will receive in the end if we are faithful “afar off” (Acts 2:39).
(2 Corinthians 1:22, 5:5, Ephesians 1:13-14)
• Paul refers to this experience as “the first fruits of the Spirit” • God has promised to give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him
(Romans 8:23) (Luke 11:13).
• God’s Word declares that He will give the Holy Ghost to those that
• It is called a rest. obey Him (Acts 5:32).
• Jesus invited us to come unto Him and find rest for our souls
(Isaiah 28:12, Matthew 11:28-30) God has given “conditional promises” to those
• In Christ, we cease from our labors and enter into the rest who want the Holy Ghost. Acts 2:38 is one of
(“Sabbath”) of the Holy Ghost (Hebrews 4:1-11) them – once you repent and get baptized, you
are ready to receive His gift! His will (1 Corinthians 1:25-29)

• Speaking in tongues reverses the confusion of the Tower of Babel,

4. What is the initial evidence of receiving the baptism of showing the unity of the church
the Holy Ghost? The Bible teaches us that it is
speaking in tongues. • God has historically used outward, physical signs to accompany
His covenants with man
• When the New Testament church began on the Day of Pentecost,
the disciples spoke in tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance • Speaking in tongues provides “certainty” since it signifies Spirit
(Acts 2:1-4). baptism at a definite point in time
• Isaiah prophesied of God giving spiritual rest and speaking to His
people through stammering lips and another tongue (Isaiah 28:9- 6. What will the baptism of the Holy Ghost do for me? It
12). provides inner power to help me live for God!
• Simon the Sorcerer observed “evidence” when the Samaritans • It brings me rest, peace and joy (Isaiah 28:11-12, Romans 14:17)
received the Baptism of the Holy Ghost by laying on of hands
(Acts 8:14-20). • It helps me pray (Romans 8:26, 2 Corinthians 14:14-15, Jude 20)
• Cornelius’ household, who were gentiles, spoke with other • It gives me power to witness to others about the Lord (Acts 1:8,
tongues when they received the Holy Ghost (Acts 10:44-48). 4:31)
• Paul had this experience (Acts 9:17-18), for he spoke with tongues
• It teaches, guides and shows me things to come (John 14:26,
more than anyone in the Corinthian church (1 Corinthians 14:18).
16:13)
• Believers who had only experienced John’s baptism were re-
baptized and spoke with tongues (Acts 19:1-6). • It gives me power over the enemy (Luke 10:19-20, Isaiah 59:19, 1
John 4:1-4)
5. Why did God choose speaking in tongues as a sign? • It opens the door to other Gifts of the Spirit in my life (1 Corinthians
We cannot be absolutely sure, but we must accept His 12 & 14)
plan by faith. Here are some possible reasons …
• It gives me assurance in my heart that I am truly saved (Romans
• God is sovereign and can do what He wants to do (Isaiah 40:13- 8:16)
14)
7. How important is the baptism of the Holy Ghost? The
• The Bible teaches that “from the heart the mouth speaketh”
(Matthew 12:34) Bible teaches that it is essential for me to receive this
experience.
• The tongue (our speech) is the chief means of expression
(Proverbs 18:20-21) • The Holy Ghost is such a sacred thing that Jesus warned us not to
blaspheme (“speak against”) the Holy Ghost (Mark 3:28-30).
• The tongue is the most difficult member of the body to control
(James 3:2-8) • Without the Holy Ghost we will not be in the rapture of the church
when Jesus returns (Romans 8:11, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).
• Speaking in tongues is an obvious, universal, external and uniform
sign (Acts 11:15-17) • Without the Spirit of Christ we are “none of His” – we do not
belong to the family of God (Romans 8:9, 1 Corinthians 12:3, 2
• God often uses things that are unusual, foolish or despised to do Timothy 2:19).
 • The Bible teaches that we cannot even call Jesus the Lord of our once. Since God will not take your vocabulary away, you
lives except by the power of the Holy Ghost (1 Corinthians 12:3). must VOLUNTARILY yield yourself to His control. GOD does
not speak in tongues – PEOPLE speak in tongues as His
8. I want to receive the Baptism of the Holy Ghost. What Spirit gives the words. What an incredible experience it is to
do I need to do? surrender completely to God!

“As bad as you are, you still know how to give good gifts to
• Believe the Gospel of Jesus Christ and repent of your sins your children. But your heavenly Father is even more ready
(Luke 24:47, Acts 20:21) to give the Holy Spirit to anyone who asks.” (Luke 11:13)
• Be baptized in Jesus’ name for the remission of your sins
(Mark 16:16, Acts 2:38)
The Holy Spirit is Given to “Believers”
• Be comfortable – you don’t have to be in a certain posture to
receive God’s gift (Acts 2:2)
First believe … … then receive!
• Ask and believe for God’s gift – you do not have to earn it or
beg for it (Luke 11:9-13, Acts 5:32) … in my name … they shall speak
“And these signs shall follow them
with new tongues.”
that believe …
• Offer worship to God, for nothing pleases Him more – talk to (Mark 16:17)
Him like you would talk to your best friend (Hebrews 13:15, … But this spake he of the Spirit,
“He that believeth on me, as the
Psalm 116:17) which they that believe on him
scripture hath said, out of his belly
should receive …”
• Let the Spirit of God submerge your spirit and flow through shall flow rivers of living water …
(John 7:38-39)
you (John 4:14, 7:37-38) – forget human reasoning and lose “… Repent, and be baptized every
yourself in God (Isaiah 55:9) … ye shall receive the gift of the
one of you in the name of Jesus
Holy Ghost.”
• Become like a little child, surrender your tongue to the Christ for the remission of sins,
(Acts 2:38)
and …
Spirit’s control, and don’t be afraid to speak in an unknown
“… after that ye heard the word of
language (Matthew 18:2-4, Galatians 4:6, Isaiah 28:11, Acts … ye were sealed with that holy
truth, the gospel of your salvation:
2:4, Psalm 81:10) in whom also after that ye
Spirit of promise.”
(Ephesians 1:13)
• Emotions become affected by what is happening in the believed ...
spirit, and you may express yourself in a variety of ways – … the Holy Spirit to them that ask
“… how much more shall your
everyone is unique (Acts 13:52) him?”
heavenly Father give …
(Luke 11:13)
• You will be in control at all times, and can stop speaking at “… God gave them the like gift as
any time – but the Spirit baptism cannot be fully “… Have ye received the Holy
he did unto us, who believed on
Ghost since ye believed?”
enjoyed until you drink long and deep (1 the Lord Jesus Christ …”
(Acts 19:2)
Corinthians 14:32, John 4:14, 7:37-38) (Acts 11:17)

Remember that it is IMPOSSIBLE for God to fill When Jesus was crucified and buried, these were ACTS OF
people with His Spirit when they refuse to yield. No MEN. But when He resurrected, it was an ACT OF GOD!
one can be filled with SELF and GOD at the same When we repent and get baptized, these are ACTS OF MEN
time. Neither can two languages be spoken at (in obedience to God’s Word). But when God fills us with His
Spirit, it is a miraculous ACT OF GOD! • Romans 6:4 – How do I put an end to my old sinful life?
• Romans 8:11 – Where do I get power to live a new life?
When I receive the Holy Ghost, I am applying the
resurrection of Jesus Christ to my life, making it Answers: All, Death, Jesus Christ’s Death on the Cross,
effective in me! Repentance, Water Baptism in the Name of Jesus Christ,
the Baptism of the Holy Ghost
At our church, our Mission Statement identifies
The Gospel of the NT Preachers “what we do,” our Statement of Faith defines
Chart by David Bernard
“what we believe,” and our Lifestyle Statement
summarizes “what we practice.” Together, they
All the New Testament writers and preachers taught the same salvation message in
answer to the question of what a person must do to be saved. The elements help define our PURPOSE.
(excluding faith) necessary to experience salvation in one’s life as are follows:

Preacher Repentance Water Baptism Spirit Baptism Our Mission Statement

John the Matthew 3:2,8, Matthew 3:6, Matthew 3:11,
Baptist
Jesus
Luke 3:8
Matt. 4:17, Mk.
Mk. 1:8, Lk. 3:3
Matt. 28:19, Mark
Mark 1:8, Luke 3:16
Acts 1:4-8, Lk. 11:13, Jn.
Our church exists to help people find L.I.F.E.
Christ 1:15, Lk. 13:3-5 16:16, Jn. 3:5, 4:1 3:5, 7:38-39, 20:22 in Jesus Christ by …
Peter Acts 2:38, 3:19 Acts 2:38, 10:48 Acts 2:38, 11:15-17
L eading them to salvation
Philip Acts 8:12,16 Acts 8:15-16
I nstructing them in maturity
Ananias Acts 22:16 Acts 9:17
F itting them for ministry
Paul Acts 17:30 Acts 19:3-5 Acts 19:2,6 E quipping them for evangelism
Author of
Hebrews 6:1 Heb. 6:1, 10:22 Hebrews 6:1, 10:15
Hebrews
John the
1 John 5:8-10 1 John 5:8-10
Our Statement of Faith
Apostle

In essential beliefs — we have UNITY.

“We are all one body, we have the same Spirit, and we have all been called to
THE ROMAN ROAD the same glorious future. There is only one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and
there is only one God and Father, who is over us all and in us all and living
A Roadmap to the Plan of Salvation from Paul’s Letter to the Romans through us all.” (Ephesians 4:4-6)

• Romans 3:23 – How many people have sinned? In non-essential beliefs — we have LIBERTY.
• Romans 6:23 – What is the eternal penalty for sin? “Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters
• Romans 5:8 – What is the only remedy for sin? ... Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To his own master he stands
• Romans 2:4 – What is the right response to God’s love? or falls ... So then each of us will give an account of himself to God ... So
whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God.” the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.” (2 Timothy
(Romans 14:1-22) 3:16) “He came unto his own, and his own received him not.” (John 1:11)
This one true God was manifest in the flesh, that is, in His Son Jesus
In all our beliefs — we show CHARITY. Christ. “God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing
“... If I hold in my mind not only all human knowledge but also the very secrets of their trespasses unto them.” (2 Corinthians 5:19)
God, and if I have the faith that can move mountains — but have no love, I We believe that “in [Jesus] dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.”
amount to nothing at all.” (1 Corinthians 13:2)
(Colossians 2:9) “For it pleased the Father that in him should all fullness
THE ESSENTIALS WE BELIEVE … dwell.” (Colossians 1:19) Therefore, Jesus in His humanity was man; in
His deity He was and is God. His flesh was the lamb, or the sacrifice of
About the Bible God for our sins. He is the only mediator between God and man. “For
there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man
We believe the Bible to be inspired of God, the infallible Word of God. “All
Christ Jesus.” (1 Timothy 2:5)
scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for
reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16) Jesus on His Father’s side was divine, and on His mother’s side was
human. Thus, He was known as the Son of God and also the Son of man,
The Bible is the only God-given authority which man possesses; therefore,
or the God-man. “Unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given … and his
all doctrine, faith, hope, and all instruction for the church must be based
name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, the mighty God, the
upon, and harmonize with, the Bible. It is given to be read and studied, and
everlasting Father, the prince of peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)
can only be clearly understood by those who are anointed by the Holy
Spirit. (1 John 2:27) “No prophecy of the scripture is of any private
interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but
About Human Beings
holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” (2 Peter In the beginning God created man innocent, pure and holy; but through the
1:20-21) sin of disobedience Adam and Eve, the first of the human race, fell from
their holy state, and God was forced to banish them from their paradise in
About the One True God the Garden of Eden. Thus, by mankind’s disobedience, sin entered into the
world and the human family. (Genesis 1:27, Romans 3:23, 5:12) Although
We believe in the one ever-living, eternal God; infinite in power, holy in every human being has tremendous potential for good, each of us is
nature, attributes and purpose; and possessing absolute, indivisible deity. marred by our inborn sinful nature and its actions, separating us from God
This one true God has revealed Himself as the Father, in creation; through and causing many problems in our lives. All men are eternally lost outside
His Son, in redemption; and as the Holy Spirit, by emanation. (1 of the redemptive work of Christ. (Ephesians 2:12, Galatians 2:15-16, 5:6,
Corinthians 8:6, 2 Corinthians 5:19, Joel 2:28, Ephesians 4:6) Romans 3:23-26, 6:23, Mark 16:16)
“The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is
one Lord.” (Mark 12:29, Deuteronomy 6:4) “One God and Father of all, About Salvation
who is above all, and through all, and in you all.” (Ephesians 4:6)
We receive salvation not by our own merit, but by grace through faith in the
Before the incarnation, this one true God manifested Himself in various Lord Jesus Christ. We are made partakers of this salvation through
ways. In the incarnation, He manifested Himself in the Son, who walked obeying the Gospel in repentance from sins, baptism in the name of the
among men. As He works in the lives of believers, He manifests Himself as Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and by receiving the baptism of
the Holy Spirit. the Holy Ghost with the initial sign of speaking with other tongues as the
Spirit gives utterance. We are baptized by this one Spirit into the Body of
About the Son of God Christ. (Romans 5:1, 6:1-6, 6:17, Ephesians 2:8, Acts 2:38, 1 Corinthians
12:13) There is no salvation outside of obedience to the Gospel of Jesus
We believe the one true God, Jehovah of the Old Testament, took upon
Christ. “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name
Himself the form of man, and as the Son of man was born of the virgin
under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)
Mary. “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was
manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto
About Holiness leadership He has placed in His body, and to one another. By
placing ourselves in submission to our pastoral leadership, we
Godly living must characterize the life of every child of the Lord, and we receive the spiritual protection and accountability we need.
must live according to the pattern and example given in the Word of God.
“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, “Obey your spiritual leaders and do what they say. Their work is to
teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live watch over your souls, and they know they are accountable to
soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.” (Titus 2:11-12) God. Give them reason to do this joyfully and not with sorrow. That
would certainly not be for your benefit.” (Hebrews 13:17)
Issues of holiness are not salvation issues in and of themselves; rather,
they are Christian maturity (“sanctification”) issues. “Follow peace with all
men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.” (Hebrews
12:14) However, if we choose not to obey God in these areas, our willful
P priesthood of every believer
disobedience will eventually become a salvation issue. (1 Corinthians 3:16- The Bible teaches that every Christian is called to “full time” Christian
17, 2 Corinthians 6:17 - 7:1) service, regardless of their vocation. We emphasize the truth that
every believer is a minister by encouraging every member to find a
About Eternity place of service in the local church. Every believer has direct,
personal access to God through the Bible and prayer.
We believe in the personal and imminent return of our Lord Jesus Christ to
“catch away” His church (the Rapture), and in a subsequent period of “But you are God’s chosen and special people. You are a group of
intense distress for those who remain on the earth (the Tribulation), which royal priests and a holy nation. God has brought you out of
will be followed by the Lord’s personal return to earth with His saints to rule darkness into his marvelous light. Now you must tell all the
for one thousand years (the Millennial Reign). Thus, the people of God wonderful things that he has done.” (1 Peter 2:9)
should earnestly and hopefully look forward to the Second Coming of
Christ. (1 Thessalonians 4:13-17, Acts 1:11, 3:19-21, 2 Thessalonians 2:1,
1 Corinthians 11:26, 15:51-54, Philippians 3:20-21, Revelation 22:20, Titus
O overcoming spiritual life
2:13-14, Matthew 24) In the end, all the dead will be summoned before the We understand that the only way possible to live the Christian life is
Great White Throne for their final judgment, and all whose names are not by the power of the Holy Ghost within us. So we practice the daily
found written in the Book of Life will be cast into the Lake of Fire. (Matthew spiritual disciplines of prayer and Bible reading, and cultivate a
25:41, Revelation 20:15, 21:8) The redeemed will live for all eternity in the dependence on God’s Spirit to enable us to overcome sinful thoughts
presence of God. (Revelation 21:2-4, 21:23-27, 22:3-5, 22:14) Heaven and and actions and do what is right.
Hell are real places of eternal existence.
“So I advise you to live according to your new life in the Holy Spirit.
Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. The old
sinful nature loves to do evil, which is just opposite from what the
Our Lifestyle Statement Holy Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are opposite
from what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly
Many people say that they believe the Bible, but beliefs are not worth much fighting each other, and your choices are never free from this
unless they are translated into ACTIONS. Based on what the Bible conflict.” (Galatians 5:16-17)
teaches, we feel very strongly about the following practices …

S sole authority of the Bible

A attitude of submission Since God’s Word is the only completely reliable and truthful
The Bible teaches that every believer needs to be a faithful and authority, we accept the Bible as our manual for living. Our first
committed member of a local church family, and strongly question when faced with a decision is, “What does the Bible say?”
emphasizes that we must be submitted to God, to the spiritual We practice daily Bible reading, Bible study, and Bible memorization.
The Bible is the basis for all we believe.
 a different stage of development and commitment in their life with
“The whole Bible was given to us by inspiration from God and is
Christ. We therefore accept each person in their diversity, while
useful to teach us what is true and make us realize what is wrong in
encouraging all to grow to maturity in Christ.
our lives. It straightens us out and helps us to do what is right.” (2
Timothy 3:15) “If our faith is strong, we should be patient with the Lord’s followers
whose faith is weak. We should try to please them instead of
ourselves. We should think of their good and try to help them by
doing what pleases them.” (Romans 15:1-2)
T tithing to support God’s work C conduct becoming a Christian
The Bible teaches us to practice tithing for the support of the church,
God requires us to avoid things that defile our minds or bodies, since
its leadership and ministries. We realize that giving ten percent of our
sinful thoughts and actions separate us from Him. Our old nature is
income is God’s Biblical standard. Tithing is not the same as giving
not eradicated but merely subdued within us, so our flesh still has the
an offering. The ten percent tithe belongs to God already, and
ability to commit sinful acts. We alone make the choice to yield to
anything we give above that is an offering.
God’s Spirit and conduct ourselves in ways that keep us close to
“A tithe of everything you produce belongs to the Lord; it is holy to God and away from sin.
the Lord.” (Leviticus 26:30)
“‘Therefore, come out from them and separate yourselves from them,
says the Lord. Don’t touch their filthy things, and I will welcome you.
O outward appearance And I will be your Father, and you will be my sons and daughters,
says the Lord Almighty.’ Because we have these promises, dear
Real Christianity affects every area of our lives, major and minor. friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our
When the Bible’s standards of godly appearance are present in a body or spirit. And let us work toward complete purity because we
believer’s life, they indicate that a real internal change has indeed fear God.” (2 Corinthians 6:17 - 7:1)
taken place. In addition to glorifying God, our personal outward
holiness has the effect of testifying to others around us.
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good
works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)
Our Church Family
“For God is not a God of disorder, but of peace ... Everything should be
L lifestyle of evangelism done in a fitting and orderly way.” (1 Corinthians 14:33, 40)

It is the responsibility of every Christian to share the good news of In the animal kingdom, no creature can grow above nine inches without a
the Gospel with those God brings us into contact with. Witnessing is skeleton. In the same way, every local church needs a supporting structure
not only the words we say, but also the life we live in front of others. if it is to be healthy and grow properly. Since the church is a God-ordained
We should use every opportunity to influence others toward Christ institution, its structure should not be determined by culture, business
and His church. practices, or even denominational traditions. Rather, the NATURE of the
church should determine its STRUCTURE. At The United Pentecostal
“Honor Christ and let him be the Lord of your life. Always be ready to Church, we believe what the church is should determine how it is
give an answer when someone asks you about your hope.” (1 Peter organized.
3:15)
1. The church is a FELLOWSHIP.
I individuality of every believer • The top priority in a fellowship is unity.
We understand that every believer grows at a different rate, and is at “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond
 of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3) administrators and the people to be the ministers.
• Any attitude that causes disunity is sin. “God gave … some to be pastors and teachers to prepare God’s
people for works of ministry …” (Ephesians 4:11-12)
“Now, dear brothers and sisters, I appeal to you by the authority of
the Lord Jesus Christ to stop arguing among yourselves. Let there
be real harmony so there won’t be divisions in the church. I plead At The United Pentecostal Church, our process for seeing lives
with you to be of one mind, united in thought and purpose.” (1 changed by the power of God can be diagrammed in five
Corinthians 1:10) concentric circles, as illustrated below. Our goal is to keep people
moving from the outside to the center by encouraging spiritual
2. The church is a FAMILY.
commitment.
• Families operate on the basis of relationships, not
rules.
“You should be like one big happy family, full of sympathy toward
Your Commitment
each other, loving one another with tender hearts and humble
minds.” (1 Peter 3:8)
• The stronger the relationship, the fewer rules you
need.
“(A Pastor) must manage his own family well and see that his
children obey him with proper respect. If anyone does not know
how to manage his family, how can he take care of God’s church?”
(1 Timothy 3:4-5)

3. The church is a BODY.

• We are a body, not a business. We are an
organism, not an organization.
“And the church is his body; it is filled by Christ, who fills
everything everywhere with his presence.” (Ephesians 1:23)
• We therefore function on the basis of spiritual gifts,
not merely elected offices.
“There are different ways God works in our lives … A spiritual gift
is given to each of us as a means of helping the entire church.”
(1 Corinthians 12:6-7)

4. The church is a FLOCK.

• It is therefore cared for and led by shepherds.
“To the elders I say … Be shepherds of God’s flock, serving as
overseers …” (1 Peter 5:1-2)
• This Biblical structure frees the pastors to be the
As you move through these five circles, along the way you 3. A practical reason
will be asked to make FOUR COVENANTS with God and (It defines who can be counted on by the leadership)
your church family: a Salvation Covenant, a Maturity
Covenant, a Ministry Covenant, and an Evangelism 4. A personal reason
Covenant. At our church, we never ask our members to do (It produces spiritual growth in the individual)
more than the Bible clearly teaches, but we do expect them
to do the things the Bible expects of every Christian. And we Congratulations! You have now completed the first
do ask people to enter into these three covenants because
level of United Pentecostal Church’s basic courses,
WE BECOME WHAT WE ARE COMMITTED TO.
Salvation 101.
The difference between church attenders and
church members, and between the spiritually
immature and the spiritually mature can be
summed up in just one word – COMMITMENT!
My Salvation Covenant
Having experienced Bible salvation, as taught in the book of
The difference between being an attender and a member is Acts, I now wish to become a member of the United
like the difference between living together and getting Pentecostal Church family. In doing so, I declare before God
married. If two people are just living together there is no and the members of my church …
commitment; either one can walk away at any moment.
Marriage means you are committed for the duration! I have experienced the New Birth (Acts 2:38) …
A person who says, “I’m committed to Jesus Christ but I
• By repenting of my sins
don’t want to be committed to a local church,” is obviously a
very immature believer. The Bible tells us that the church is • By being baptized in the name of Jesus for the
the Body of Christ on earth and the Bride of Christ in remission of my sins
Heaven. Jesus gave His life for the church. The more like • By receiving the Holy Ghost with the evidence of
Christ we become, the more we are willing to give our lives speaking in tongues
for the church! Church membership is not just a ritual; it is a
step in your spiritual development.
I will protect the unity of my church …
At our church, we recognize the need for a COMMITMENT
to a local church family for the following reasons … • By submitting to the leadership
• By acting in love toward other members
1. A Biblical reason
(our example is Christ’s commitment to the church) • By resolving conflicts in a Biblical manner

2. A cultural reason
(It is an antidote to our society’s lack of commitment) I will share the responsibility of my church …
 • By praying for its leadership and growth
• By being faithful in my attendance
• By inviting the unchurched to attend and welcoming
those who visit
Signed: _________________________________________
Dated: _________________________________________