Our Mission
Valley Life Community Church (VLCC) exists to multiply disciples, develop leaders and plant churches to the glory of God and the good of the Treasure Valley.
Beliefs
The Word of God
The Bible is God’s Word to us. It was written by human authors, under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is the supreme source of truth for Christian beliefs and living. Because it is inspired by God, it is the truth without any mixture of error on all subjects on which it speaks. The authoritative word of God containing all that people of every age need to know for their salvation.
2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20,21; 2 Timothy 1:13; Psalm 119:105,160, 12:6; Proverbs 30:5 (Belgic Confession Art. 3, 4 Heidelberg Catechism: Lord’s Day 6 Q19, Day 7 Q22, Day 35 Q98)
The Creator
We believe the Bible teaches that there is one God, the Father, His Son, and His Holy Spirit, who together are the one God. He is Eternal, unchanging, and the creator of all things.
Deuteronomy 6:4, John 20:28, Acts 5:3-4 (Nicene Creed, Heidelberg Catechism: Lord’s Day 20, Belgic Confession Art. 11)
The Fall of Adam
We believe in the historical and literal fall of Adam as the first created man into sin; which We call original sin. We believe that due to Adam’s sin, all men receive the guilt and corruption of his sin and consequently are deemed sinners by heritage and choice.
Genesis 3, Romans 5, 1 Corinthians 15:22 (Belgic Confession Art. 14, 15 Heidelberg Catechism: Lord’s Day 2 Q5, Day 3 Q6-8, Day 4 Q9-10, Day 5 Q12-13, Canons of Dort Head I Art. 1, Head II Art 1-2, Head III and IV Art 1,2,3,4)
The Dual Nature of Christ
We believe that Jesus, who was born of a virgin, is fully God and man; the God/man. We believe that Jesus possesses a divine nature, as well as a human nature; 100 percent God and 100 percent man—a great mystery.
John 1:1-3, John 20:28, John 8:58
The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is co-equal with the Father and the Son of God. He is present in the world to make men aware of their need for Jesus Christ. He also lives in every Christian from the moment of salvation. He provides the Christian with power for living, understanding of spiritual truth, and guidance in doing what is right. He gives every believer a spiritual gift when they are saved. As Christians, We seek to live under His control daily.
2 Corinthians 3:17; John 16:7-13, 14:16,17; Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 2:12, 3:16; Ephesians 1:13; Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 5:18
The Sovereign Choice of God
God's choice of certain individuals for salvation before the foundation of the world rests solely in His own sovereign will. His choice of particular sinners was not based on any foreseen response or obedience on their part, such as faith, repentance, etc. On the contrary, God gives faith and repentance to each individual whom He has chosen. These acts are the result, not the basis of God’s choice. Election, therefore, was not determined by, or conditioned upon, any virtuous quality or act foreseen in man. Those whom God sovereignly elected He brings through the power of the Spirit to a willing acceptance of Christ. Thus, God’s choice of the sinner, not the sinner’s choice of Christ, is the ultimate cause of salvation.
Matthew 11:27, 22:14, Acts 13:48; 18:27; Romans 9:11-13, 16; 10:20; Titus 1:1; 2 Timothy 1:8-9; 1 Thessalonians 1:4-5; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; (Canons of Dort Head III & IV Art. 6, 10-13, 15-16, Rej. 6-9)
The Atonement
We believe that Christ died on the cross as a substitute for sinners. We believe that by the death of Jesus Christ, the penalty of sin (past, present and future) has been paid for all who believe in Him as Lord and Savior.
Hebrews 2:17, Romans 5:11, 2 Corinthians 5:18-21 (Belgic Confession Art.17, Heidelberg Catechism: Lord’s Day 5 Q12, Day 6 Q18, Day 11 Q29)
The Resurrection
We believe that Christ, after He died and was buried, rose from the dead as proof of His acceptance as the perfect sacrifice for sin. We believe that the resurrection of Jesus Christ guarantees the bodily resurrection of His people.
Romans 1:4, Romans 6:5, 1 Corinthians 15:13
The Justification
We believe that a sinner is made right (declared not guilty) with God not by his/her own merits, but by the unmerited grace of God. Even faith is the gift of God. We believe that sinners are saved by grace through faith and not by works.
Romans 4:25, Romans 5:16-18, Ephesians 2:8-10 (Belgic Confession Art. 23, Heidelberg Catechism: Lord’s Day 1 Q1, Day 15 Q37-39, Day 17 Q45, Day 21 Q56, Canons of Dort Head II Art. 3,4)
The Church
We believe that the church is the covenant community called by God through Jesus Christ. We believe that the establishment and continuance of local churches is clearly taught and defined in the New Testament Scriptures We recognize baptism and Communion as scriptural means of testimony for the church
Matthew 28:19, 20; Acts 2:41, 42; Acts 18:8; 1 Corinthians 11:23–26, Acts 14:27; 18:22; 20:17; 1 Timothy 3:1–3; Titus 1:5–11
The Headship
We subscribe to the biblical teaching of complementarianism. Men and women are partners together in every area of ministry. Both are created in the image of God, and in Christ inherit true righteousness, holiness, and relationship with God. All ministries in the church are open to all qualified men and women, with the singular exception of the office of Pastor/Elder which the scriptures require to be a “male only” office. Women serve as deacons, teach, lead worship, serve communion, and are in paid full time ministry.
1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, 1 Corinthians 11 (For a more in-depth summary please visit www.cbmw.org)
The Covenant of Marriage
We believe humanity bears the image of God. This is expressed in the creation of both male and female by the design and will of God. Marriage therefore exists as a covenant rooted in original creation and therefore is between one man and one woman by the design and will of God. Both Adam and Eve were created in God’s image, equal before God as persons and distinct in their manhood and womanhood. Distinctions in masculine and feminine roles are ordained by God as part of the created order, and should find an echo in every human heart. Adam’s headship in marriage was established by God before the Fall, and was not a result of sin.
Genesis 1:26-27, 2:18, 21-24, 3:1-13; 1 Corinthians 11:7-9; 1 Timothy 2:12-14
The Sacraments
We believe there are two sacraments given by Christ to strengthen our faith as members of His Church. The first is Baptism. Baptism is a sign and seal of the covenant of God’s promises that believers and their children receive by faith as the sign of their entrance into the covenant community of God’s people. Baptism is a symbol of the washing away of our sins through the blood of Christ, and unites us in the death and resurrection of Jesus on our behalf. The second is the sacrament of Communion. The broken bread is a symbol the broken body of Christ. The cup is a symbol of the blood of Christ poured out at the cross for our salvation. Christ is spiritually present in the bread and juice, and is celebrated as a memorial reminding us of Christ's sacrifice on our behalf until he returns.
Genesis 17: 1-10; Deuteronomy 7:9; Matthew 19:13-15; 28:19; Acts 16:14-15; 30-33; Mark 14:22-25; 2 Corinthians 11:23-26; 1 Corinthians 1:16, Romans 6 (Belgic Confession Art. 34-35, Heidelberg Catechism Lord’s Day 26-30 Q69-82)
Last Things
When history has run the course laid out for it in God’s plan, Jesus Christ will return in power and glory to judge the world and to complete the total victory over sin, death and Satan. At that time those who believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord will enter heaven to be with him forever. Those who have not believed will be eternally separated from God.
Acts 1:6-11; Mark 13:24-27; Revelation 1:7; 1 Peter 4:5; Matthew 24:29-31; 25:31-46 (Belgic Confession Art. 37; Heidelberg Catechism: Lord’s Day22 Q57)
The Eternity
We believe that the Bible teaches that Heaven is prepared for those who have faith in Jesus Christ. We believe that the Bible teaches that Hell is prepared for those who do not have salvation in Jesus Christ.
Matthew 5:12, 10:28, 18:9 (Belgic Confession Art. 37, Heidelberg Catechism: Lord’s Day 22 Q58, Day 48 Q123)
The Senior Pastor: Jesus Christ
The Church is the living Body of Christ on earth. He is the head and the source of its life. We believe that all true believers need to be a part of the Church so they can grow in their faith, instruction, worship, and fellowship with other believers, and make a united impact upon society.
Ephesians 5:23; Romans 12:4-8; 1 Corinthians 12; Ephesians 1:22-23; 4:1-16; Colossians 1:15-20
The Bible is God’s Word to us. It was written by human authors, under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is the supreme source of truth for Christian beliefs and living. Because it is inspired by God, it is the truth without any mixture of error on all subjects on which it speaks. The authoritative word of God containing all that people of every age need to know for their salvation.
2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20,21; 2 Timothy 1:13; Psalm 119:105,160, 12:6; Proverbs 30:5 (Belgic Confession Art. 3, 4 Heidelberg Catechism: Lord’s Day 6 Q19, Day 7 Q22, Day 35 Q98)
The Creator
We believe the Bible teaches that there is one God, the Father, His Son, and His Holy Spirit, who together are the one God. He is Eternal, unchanging, and the creator of all things.
Deuteronomy 6:4, John 20:28, Acts 5:3-4 (Nicene Creed, Heidelberg Catechism: Lord’s Day 20, Belgic Confession Art. 11)
The Fall of Adam
We believe in the historical and literal fall of Adam as the first created man into sin; which We call original sin. We believe that due to Adam’s sin, all men receive the guilt and corruption of his sin and consequently are deemed sinners by heritage and choice.
Genesis 3, Romans 5, 1 Corinthians 15:22 (Belgic Confession Art. 14, 15 Heidelberg Catechism: Lord’s Day 2 Q5, Day 3 Q6-8, Day 4 Q9-10, Day 5 Q12-13, Canons of Dort Head I Art. 1, Head II Art 1-2, Head III and IV Art 1,2,3,4)
The Dual Nature of Christ
We believe that Jesus, who was born of a virgin, is fully God and man; the God/man. We believe that Jesus possesses a divine nature, as well as a human nature; 100 percent God and 100 percent man—a great mystery.
John 1:1-3, John 20:28, John 8:58
The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is co-equal with the Father and the Son of God. He is present in the world to make men aware of their need for Jesus Christ. He also lives in every Christian from the moment of salvation. He provides the Christian with power for living, understanding of spiritual truth, and guidance in doing what is right. He gives every believer a spiritual gift when they are saved. As Christians, We seek to live under His control daily.
2 Corinthians 3:17; John 16:7-13, 14:16,17; Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 2:12, 3:16; Ephesians 1:13; Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 5:18
The Sovereign Choice of God
God's choice of certain individuals for salvation before the foundation of the world rests solely in His own sovereign will. His choice of particular sinners was not based on any foreseen response or obedience on their part, such as faith, repentance, etc. On the contrary, God gives faith and repentance to each individual whom He has chosen. These acts are the result, not the basis of God’s choice. Election, therefore, was not determined by, or conditioned upon, any virtuous quality or act foreseen in man. Those whom God sovereignly elected He brings through the power of the Spirit to a willing acceptance of Christ. Thus, God’s choice of the sinner, not the sinner’s choice of Christ, is the ultimate cause of salvation.
Matthew 11:27, 22:14, Acts 13:48; 18:27; Romans 9:11-13, 16; 10:20; Titus 1:1; 2 Timothy 1:8-9; 1 Thessalonians 1:4-5; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14; (Canons of Dort Head III & IV Art. 6, 10-13, 15-16, Rej. 6-9)
The Atonement
We believe that Christ died on the cross as a substitute for sinners. We believe that by the death of Jesus Christ, the penalty of sin (past, present and future) has been paid for all who believe in Him as Lord and Savior.
Hebrews 2:17, Romans 5:11, 2 Corinthians 5:18-21 (Belgic Confession Art.17, Heidelberg Catechism: Lord’s Day 5 Q12, Day 6 Q18, Day 11 Q29)
The Resurrection
We believe that Christ, after He died and was buried, rose from the dead as proof of His acceptance as the perfect sacrifice for sin. We believe that the resurrection of Jesus Christ guarantees the bodily resurrection of His people.
Romans 1:4, Romans 6:5, 1 Corinthians 15:13
The Justification
We believe that a sinner is made right (declared not guilty) with God not by his/her own merits, but by the unmerited grace of God. Even faith is the gift of God. We believe that sinners are saved by grace through faith and not by works.
Romans 4:25, Romans 5:16-18, Ephesians 2:8-10 (Belgic Confession Art. 23, Heidelberg Catechism: Lord’s Day 1 Q1, Day 15 Q37-39, Day 17 Q45, Day 21 Q56, Canons of Dort Head II Art. 3,4)
The Church
We believe that the church is the covenant community called by God through Jesus Christ. We believe that the establishment and continuance of local churches is clearly taught and defined in the New Testament Scriptures We recognize baptism and Communion as scriptural means of testimony for the church
Matthew 28:19, 20; Acts 2:41, 42; Acts 18:8; 1 Corinthians 11:23–26, Acts 14:27; 18:22; 20:17; 1 Timothy 3:1–3; Titus 1:5–11
The Headship
We subscribe to the biblical teaching of complementarianism. Men and women are partners together in every area of ministry. Both are created in the image of God, and in Christ inherit true righteousness, holiness, and relationship with God. All ministries in the church are open to all qualified men and women, with the singular exception of the office of Pastor/Elder which the scriptures require to be a “male only” office. Women serve as deacons, teach, lead worship, serve communion, and are in paid full time ministry.
1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, 1 Corinthians 11 (For a more in-depth summary please visit www.cbmw.org)
The Covenant of Marriage
We believe humanity bears the image of God. This is expressed in the creation of both male and female by the design and will of God. Marriage therefore exists as a covenant rooted in original creation and therefore is between one man and one woman by the design and will of God. Both Adam and Eve were created in God’s image, equal before God as persons and distinct in their manhood and womanhood. Distinctions in masculine and feminine roles are ordained by God as part of the created order, and should find an echo in every human heart. Adam’s headship in marriage was established by God before the Fall, and was not a result of sin.
Genesis 1:26-27, 2:18, 21-24, 3:1-13; 1 Corinthians 11:7-9; 1 Timothy 2:12-14
The Sacraments
We believe there are two sacraments given by Christ to strengthen our faith as members of His Church. The first is Baptism. Baptism is a sign and seal of the covenant of God’s promises that believers and their children receive by faith as the sign of their entrance into the covenant community of God’s people. Baptism is a symbol of the washing away of our sins through the blood of Christ, and unites us in the death and resurrection of Jesus on our behalf. The second is the sacrament of Communion. The broken bread is a symbol the broken body of Christ. The cup is a symbol of the blood of Christ poured out at the cross for our salvation. Christ is spiritually present in the bread and juice, and is celebrated as a memorial reminding us of Christ's sacrifice on our behalf until he returns.
Genesis 17: 1-10; Deuteronomy 7:9; Matthew 19:13-15; 28:19; Acts 16:14-15; 30-33; Mark 14:22-25; 2 Corinthians 11:23-26; 1 Corinthians 1:16, Romans 6 (Belgic Confession Art. 34-35, Heidelberg Catechism Lord’s Day 26-30 Q69-82)
Last Things
When history has run the course laid out for it in God’s plan, Jesus Christ will return in power and glory to judge the world and to complete the total victory over sin, death and Satan. At that time those who believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord will enter heaven to be with him forever. Those who have not believed will be eternally separated from God.
Acts 1:6-11; Mark 13:24-27; Revelation 1:7; 1 Peter 4:5; Matthew 24:29-31; 25:31-46 (Belgic Confession Art. 37; Heidelberg Catechism: Lord’s Day22 Q57)
The Eternity
We believe that the Bible teaches that Heaven is prepared for those who have faith in Jesus Christ. We believe that the Bible teaches that Hell is prepared for those who do not have salvation in Jesus Christ.
Matthew 5:12, 10:28, 18:9 (Belgic Confession Art. 37, Heidelberg Catechism: Lord’s Day 22 Q58, Day 48 Q123)
The Senior Pastor: Jesus Christ
The Church is the living Body of Christ on earth. He is the head and the source of its life. We believe that all true believers need to be a part of the Church so they can grow in their faith, instruction, worship, and fellowship with other believers, and make a united impact upon society.
Ephesians 5:23; Romans 12:4-8; 1 Corinthians 12; Ephesians 1:22-23; 4:1-16; Colossians 1:15-20