We believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, was made flesh and that He came to Earth so that we might be saved. We believe that God should be at the centre of our lives. Everything that is taught at River of Life is based on what the Bible teaches and it is our desire that everyone comes into a closer relationship with God.
Below are some of the things that we believe at River of Life.
THE BIBLE - We receive the Bible as the inspired Word of God. There is no higher authority. It is our source of authority, what we believe and practice, and is the foundation of our faith. 2 Tim 3:16; 1 Thes 2:13; 2 Peter 1:17-21.
THE GODHEAD - The Bible reveals that in the Godhead there are three distinct yet indivisible personalities; the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, each being co-equal. Deut 6:4; Mark 12:29; Matt 3:16-17; John 5:7.
MANKIND - Mankind is divinely created, made in the likeness and image of God and is a tripartite being, consisting of spirit, soul and body. Gen 1:26-27; 1Thes 5:23; Heb 4:12.
MANKIND'S FALL AND REDEMPTION - The Bible teaches us that sin originated with Satan (the devil) and entered into the world through Adam and Eve's willful disobedience to God's command. This resulted in the fall of mankind. Jesus Christ offered himself as a sacrifice and paid the full price for sin and has redeemed and restored mankind back to God. Ezek 28:14-16; Rom 5:12-19; 1 Peter 1:18-19.
SALVATION - Salvation is a free gift from God to all. It cannot be earned or bought. It is made available by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Eph 2:8; John 3:16-17.
BAPTISM - There are three major baptisms taught in the Bible:
1. Baptism into the Body of Christ as one accepts salvation. 1 Cor 12:12-14; Gal 3:27.
2. Baptism by immersion in water, following Jesus' example and command. This is what was also practiced by the early church. Matt 3:13-15; Matt 28:19; Acts 2:41; Acts 10:46-48.
3. Baptism in the Holy Spirit, a gift from God after salvation and is accompanied by the evidence of speaking with other tongues. This experience is also spoken of as being filled with the Spirit. Acts 2:4; Acts 10:44-46.
SANCTIFICATION AND HOLINESS - The teaching of sanctification and holiness in the Bible show this as a two-fold work:
1. At the time of salvation. 1 Cor 1: 30; 1 Cor 6:11.
2. Also as a progressive work throughout the Christian’s life. 2 Cor 7:1; 1 Thes 3:13.
DIVINE HEALING - Healing is available to us through the power of God and was provided by the sacrifice of Jesus. Mark 16:17-18; James 5:14-15; 1 Peter 2:24.
THE RETURN OF OUR LORD JESUS - The Bible says that the same Jesus that went up to heaven will return. His return is imminent. Acts 1:10; 1 Thes 4:16-17; 2 Thes 2:1.
ANGELIC BEINGS - The Bible teaches that there are two categories of angelic beings; evil (fallen angels) and good. These are created beings and all were originally created to serve God. Psalms 148: 2 & 5; Matt 4:11; 2 Peter 2:4; Heb 1:13-14.
HEAVEN AND HELL - The Bible teaches that heaven and hell are literal places. Heaven (God's dwelling place), is the reward of those who have accepted Jesus as their Saviour. Hell (a place intended for the Devil and other fallen angels) is for those who have rejected Jesus. Heb 1:10; Gen 2:1 & 4; 2 Peter 2:4.
