Core Values and Beliefs

We Value Unity
We believe that love and unity are more significant biblical doctrines than many of the minor doctrines that often divide churches. Because of this, division in the church and petty arguments over the carpet color are unheard of. Or maybe it's just because we don't have carpet. Well, either way, it sure helps us get along really well.

We Value Servant Leadership
We believe that leaders are servants, as best demonstrated by Jesus. We also believe that pastors are responsible for the church in God's eyes, therefore our pastors are accountable to each other and to God. Although this is different from how many churches do things, we believe this most closely follows the examples given us in the New Testament. In addition, we believe the Word of God is thoroughly adequate to equip pastors for the task as taught in 2 Timothy 3:16, 17, and although we think seminary is a fine thing, we don't view it as necessary. Instead, our pastors are evaluated by the standards of character set forth in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1. Because these character areas can only be accurately evaluated when you really know a person, our leaders and pastors are developed from within the church rather than brought in from seminaries and other churches.

We Value the Local Church
We believe the local church is God's chosen instrument to reach the world. There are many, many great Christian organizations, but we believe that the local church is where our energies and efforts should be focused to best advance the work of God.

We Value Strong Marriages and Families
Because God impacts lives all week long and not just on when we're at church, we've found that our families have been dramatically changed by our relationships with God. Of course, we aren't perfect yet, but you'll find many role models of good parenting at The Rock, and you'll find lots of kids that are actually fun to be around!! Of course great marriages are central to great families, and we've got lots of those as well!

We Value Spirit Led Ministry
We believe that ministry in the church is accomplished by everyone in the church working together. As we all collectively strive to accomplish God's work, a proper focus is achieved that helps us be united in purpose and in love.

We Value Character
Head knowledge is great, but we believe that knowledge must be applied to our lives in such a way that it results in character growth to truly become valuable to us. Because of our emphasis on character development, you'll find that we have more than our share of characters.

We Value Relationship with God
We believe people's lives are dramatically changed as they spend time reading the Bible and applying what they learn to their lives. By doing this, and by communicating with God through prayer, we develop relationships with God, which are fundamental to the Christian life. Because of this, these habits are encouraged in our church and widely practiced.

We Value Grace
We believe that God wants us to live lives that are honoring to Him and that are worthy of His name. We also believe that He has given us an incredible amount of grace and freedom in the Christian life, and when we fall short of what God wants, He is gracious and compassionate, and wants us to treat each other likewise.