After you believe

Baptism is the first step of obedience that Jesus commanded us to follow. It is a symbol of identification with His death and resurrection and a way of publicly saying that you have repented of sin and are trusting completely in Jesus (Acts 2:37-38). This does not mean to be “christened” as a baby or even baptized as an adult – but is about being baptized as a believer.

Baptism in the Holy Spirit is an empowering experience, equipping Spirit-filled believers for witness and ministry. Acts 2:39 says, “And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off - for all whom the Lord our God will call.”

Following Jesus means living a lifestyle that brings proper attention to God. Be willing and able to share the story of what Jesus has been doing in you, and the good news of new life through Him, with the people you come into contact with on a daily basis (Ephesians 6:19). This is something that we do in both words and deeds. 

Sunday is when the church (the community of people who follow Jesus) come together. It’s a time of singing songs of worship, prayer, listening to the Bible, and sharing the gifts of the Spirit (Hebrews 10:25) by encouraging and practically serving one another.

As we endeavour to give our lives over daily to Jesus, the church has historically adopted practices that have historically and reliably proven to help renew our hearts, souls, and minds according to the ways of God. Studying and meditating on the bible, praying to God, serving the poor, practicing hospitality, among many others, are all incredible ways to grow spiritually healthy! 

One of the first things that Jesus calls us into is living a generous, open-handed life. This is expressed in both the giving of our time and of our resources to the Lord.
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Giving of our resources happens with tithes and offerings. Scripture tells us that tithing is giving one tenth of all that we earn back to God, who gave it to us in the first place (2 Cor. 9:7). Offerings are to be given over and above your tithe (2 Cor. 9:6-10). Tithes and offerings are used to enable and continue ministry.

Life Groups are a pivotal part of our journey following Jesus and being his witnesses to the world. They are the place where we learn, share, and live in real time with others who are asking some of the same questions, going through the same challenges, and sharing the same passions.