Doctrinal Statement

River Rock Church Philippines (RRCP)

DOCTRINAL STATEMENT

River Rock Church Philippines (RRCP) grows because God has added to our numbers (Acts 2:47). We try to glorify Christ in all we do. Our church seeks to be unified on salvation beliefs while permitting differing opinions on non-salvation beliefs. This Church has people with many different backgrounds, but we are a family. Jesus said that the world would know that we are His because we love one another and because we are one (John 13:35; John 17:21-22). Therefore, these Statements of Faith are our non-negotiable statements of belief.

RCCP Doctrinal Statement: GOD

God is self-existent, and by nature He is eternal, all-knowing, all-powerful, and omnipresent. God exists in three persons: The Father, the Son, and Holy Spirit. The Godhead is in agreement with the role of each. These three are co-equal and are one God, and therefore, God is by nature a relational God who enjoys loving fellowship within the Godhead, and who extends a loving relationship to us through faith in Jesus Christ and in unity with the Holy Spirit.

Supportive Scripture: Genesis 1:1, 26-27; 3:22; Deuteronomy 6:4; Job 38, 39, & 40; Psalm 90:2, 139:1-4, 7-10; Isaiah 40:13-17,45:18; Matthew 19:26, 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14; I Peter 1:2.

RCCP Doctrinal Statement: FATHER

Jesus Christ did not have a biological human father. God is His Father, and Jesus was born of a virgin mother by the power of the Holy Spirit, yet still, all three exist as one God. The Fatherhood of God is eternal; therefore, Father and Son have always existed in a love relationship. God revealed Himself as Father in both Old and New Testaments. God adopts believers in Jesus Christ into a relationship with Him as their Father. Through Christ, believers have the privilege of being heirs to God’s glory. As Father God actively prunes and disciplines believers so they may grow in character, wisdom, and knowledge of Him and bear the fruit of Christlikeness.

Supportive Scripture: John 15:1-4; Deuteronomy 32:6; Isaiah 9:6, 63:16; John 20:17; Romans 8:14-17; Galatians 4:6.

 RCCP Doctrinal Statement: JESUS

Jesus Christ is the Son of God and He is God. He is coequal with the Father and Holy Spirit. Jesus lived a sinless human life and offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of all people by dying on the cross. He arose from the dead after three days to demonstrate His power over sin and death. He ascended to Heaven’s glory and will return again someday to claim His church.

Supportive Scripture: Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 1:22-23; John 1:1-5; 8:58; 14:10-30; Acts 1:9-11; Romans 1:3-4; I Corinthians 15:3-4; Colossians 1:15-23; I Timothy 6:14-15; Titus 2:13; Hebrews 4:14-15; Revelation 1:8

RCCP Doctrinal Statement: HOLY SPIRIT

The Holy Spirit is coequal with the Father and the Son as God. He is present in the world to make all people aware of their need for Jesus Christ. He inspired and guided the Prophets and Apostles with the revelation of Scripture. He also dwells in every Christian from the moment of salvation. He provides Christians with power to grow in Christlikeness, to understanding of spiritual truth, and serve the church. As Christians, we seek to live under the Holy Spirit’s control daily.

Supportive Scripture: Genesis 1:1-2; Psalm 51:10-12; John 14:16-17, 16:7-13, 17; Acts 1:8; Romans 5:5; I Corinthians 2:12; 3:16; 2 Corinthians 3:17; Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 1:13, 5:18; 2 Peter 1:19-21.

RCPC Doctrinal Statement: MANKIND

People are made in the image of God, to be like Him in character. Although every person has tremendous potential for good, all of us are marred by an attitude of disobedience toward God called “sin.” This attitude separates people from God and causes many problems in life. To put this simply, this attitude we have can be described as our “sin nature”. Yet, we are not separated from God because of the existence of sin nature, but rather, because we give into it and choose to sin.

Supportive Scripture: Genesis 1:27; Genesis 3; Psalms 8:3-6; Isaiah 53:6; Isaiah 59:1-2; Romans 3:23

RCCP Doctrinal Statement: SALVATION

Salvation is God’s free gift to us, but we must accept it. We can never make up for our sin by self-improvement or good works. Only by trusting in Jesus Christ and God’s offer of forgiveness can anyone be saved from sin’s penalty. When we turn from our self-ruled life and turn to Jesus in faith we are saved. Eternal life begins the moment one receives Jesus Christ as Lord of their life. This is evidenced by repentance, confession, baptism by immersion, and a life committed to His service.

Supportive Scripture: John 1:12, 14:6; Romans 5:1, 6:23; Galatians 3:26; Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5.

RCCP Doctrinal Statement: BIBLE

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 or error. The Bible is infallible, inerrant, and absolute truth. Where it speaks, we listen and obey.

Supportive Scripture: Psalms 12:6, 119:105, 160; Proverbs 30:5; 2 Timothy 1:13, 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20-21

RCCP Doctrinal Statement: ETERNITY

People will either exist eternally separated from God by sin, or exist eternally with God through forgiveness and salvation. To be eternally separated from God is eternal death in Hell. To be eternally in union with Him is eternal life in Heaven. We believe that Heaven and Hell are real places of eternal existence.

Supportive Scripture: John 3:16, 14:17; Romans 6:23; Romans 6:23, 8:17-18; 1 Corinthians 2:7-9; Revelation 20:15.

RCCP Doctrinal Statement: THE CHURCH

The Church is the body and bride of Christ and also serves as the household of faith. It is a living temple where God dwells in each of His people. We believe that everyone that has been saved by Christ is a member of the greater Christian Church. We believe that the Church exists throughout the world, and is witnessed and experienced in local autonomous gatherings of believers.

Supportive Scripture: Ephesians. 4:16; Romans 12:4-5; Ephesians 5:24-32; Galatians. 6:10; 1 Peter 2:4-5; 1 Corinthians 3:16; Acts 14:23; Matthew 16:16–18; Acts 2:42–47; Romans 12:5; 1 Corinthians 12:12–27; Ephesians 1:20–23; 4:3–10; Colossians 3:14–15.

RCCP Doctrinal Statement: THE LEADERSHIP MODEL OF THE CHURCH

River Rock Church Philippines (RRCP)

River Rock Church Philippines (RRCP) is a non-denominational Christian Church. While recognizing the value of associating and cooperating with other groups of Christians, we believe the local Church should be governed by elders who have been chosen from among the members. We have concluded that the Biblical model for church leadership is that Christ is the head of the Church, and local Elders are responsible to carry out His will in the local assembly of believers.

Supportive Scripture: Acts 14:23; 1 Timothy 5:17; Ephesians 5:23-25; 1 Peter 5:1-4.

RCCP Doctrinal Statement: COMMUNION

Communion at River Rock Church Philippines (RRCP) is defined as Scripture defines it: “For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, ‘This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.’ In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me” (1 Corinthians 11:23-25 NIV). Communion is a memorial, a new covenant, and a proclamation. It is a sacred event for those who have a vital, biblical relationship with Jesus.

Supportive Scripture: Matthew 26:26-28; Acts 2:42-47; 1 Corinthians 11:23-30, 10:16; 1 Peter 2:24; Ephesians 1:7

RCCP Doctrinal Statement: RELATIONSHIPS

We believe that God created us for relationship—relationship with God and with one another. We emphasize the greatest commandments, which are to love God with all of our heart, mind, soul, and strength and to love others as ourselves. It is by our primary relationship with God, through Jesus, with the Holy Spirit working in us, that love and all Godly fruit is possible. It is by our love for one another as Christians that people will know we are true disciples of Jesus Christ. We bring glory to God by living our lives in authentic, life changing relationship with Him and with one another.

Supportive Scripture: Genesis 1-2; Deuteronomy 6:4-5; Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 22:34-40; John 13:34-35; 1 Corinthians 13; 1 John 1:5-7.

RCCP Doctrinal Statement:  PRIESTHOOD OF EVERY BELIEVER

God intends for every believer to play a role in the ministry of His Church. Though certain roles of leadership may require special qualifications, ministry is not reserved for the “clergy.” Every member is a minister. Ministry is not reserved only for those who are paid or have specialized training, but instead is the obligation of every believer. God’s mission is accomplished best when every member of the Church spends time and effort in ministry. In keeping with Paul’s words to the Ephesian Church, River Rock Christian Church endeavors to equip its members to do ministry, and not be fans sitting in the stands.

“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-13 NIV).

Supportive Scriptures: Ephesians 4:11-13; Romans 12:3-8; 1 Corinthians 12:4-30; 1 Peter 4:10-11

RCCP Doctrinal Statement: SPIRITUAL GIFTS

God has designed the local Church like a physical body, with Jesus Christ as the head. God gifts each of His children in unique and special ways to serve and build up the body. Therefore, spiritual gifts are not for personal benefit or glory, but to bring glory to God, as well as encouraging and building up the Church.

No one individual can have all the gifts. We are interdependent on each other; together we are the body of Christ which is a clear demonstration of true diversity. There is no division as we all have equal concern and need for each other. One is an “eye”, another is a “hand”, another is a “foot”; and some are presentable while other parts are not.

We all must be the part God has designed us to be, if not, the body suffers and becomes ill. 

 “We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully” (Romans 12:6-8).

 Supportive Scripture: Romans 12; 1 Corinthians 12-14; Ephesians 4:1-16; 1 Peter 4:7-11.

RCCP Doctrinal Statement: STEWARDSHIP & GENEROSITY

At River Rock Church Philippines (RRCP), we give generously to support the church, the body of Christ, as God’s Word commands. We recognize that giving 10% of our income is defined as a “tithe”, the Biblical starting point of giving to the local church.

But we do not stop there. We believe that our whole lives are a response to God’s grace and love for us. And so, we consider it our privilege and our challenge to live lives of extravagant generosity. We view our entire lives as an offering to the Lord, and so we live our lives in such a way that we are no longer asking the question, “God, how much are you asking me to give?” but rather, “God, how much are you asking me to keep?” In living this way, we seek to honor God through ultimate sacrifice of our time, gifts, and resources for the purposes of His Kingdom.

We encourage everyone to live obediently as it pertains to their finances, which includes tithing. If tithing has not been a part of a Church member’s life practices we encourage them to explore what God says about finances and step out on a faith journey. We believe that Church members can begin by committing to trust Him in this area and take a step of obedience to give faithfully. As we courageously walk with God in this area, we believe God will bring peace to our Church members’ lives as they grow in this worshipful response to God. Being a part of RiverRock Christian Church means being committed to following God as He grows and changes us into persons of generosity.

We believe that any giving over 10% is an “offering of gratitude” for the great things God does for us every day. This offering of gratitude is a privilege to give and is in addition to the tithe. We believe that the local church is the storehouse and that Church attendees should give their tithe there. Meanwhile, the offering of gratitude may be given at an attendee’s discretion to any worthwhile ministry, church or organization. We also recognize that we must be good stewards of our time and our talents—everything we have, as the Lord has blessed us with these things as well. Like any other form of obedience, tithing is a matter of the heart.

 Supportive Scripture: Leviticus 27:30; Malachi 3:7-12; Acts 4:32-5:11; 2 Corinthians 8:1-9:15; 2 Corinthians 9:6-15; Mark 12:43; 2 Samuel 24:24; Matthew 23:23; Luke 11:42

RCCP Doctrinal Statement: THE END TIMES

We believe there will be a literal return of Christ and a judgment day. We also believe there will be a literal rapture (a catching up of the saints). How and when this will happen has been a source of great debate. We believe the details are in God’s hands and this is not a salvation issue.

Supportive Scripture: Matthew 12:36; Matthew 24:36; John 5:22, 16:8; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; 2 Peter 3:7; Jude 6

RCCP Doctrinal Statement: ORDINATION

Ordination through River Rock Church Philippines (RRCP) is reserved for men who serve as double honor servants. “The elders who rule well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. For the Scripture says, "YOU SHALL NOT MUZZLE THE OX WHILE HE IS THRESHING," and "The laborer is worthy of his wages" (1 Timothy 5:17, 18).

It is overseen and bestowed by the laying on of hands by the Elders. Men who have been identified to serve in pastoral positions in a supported staff role are required to complete ordination. 

River Rock Church Philippines (RRCP) ordains men for ministry under the oversight of our Eldership. If a pastor disqualifies himself, his ordination will be removed. If a pastor moves to another Church ministry outside the oversight of RiverRock Christian Church, we will recommend that their ordination continues under the leadership of that Church, and that they should reissue his certificate of ordination.

 Supportive Scripture: Acts 13:1-3, 20:26-31; 1 Timothy 3:1-7, 4:14, 5:17, 5:22.

RCCP Doctrinal Statement: MARRIAGE, GENDER and SEXUALITY

We believe that God wonderfully and immutably creates each person as male or female in His image (Gen. 1:26-27). Rejection of one’s biological gender is a rejection of the image of God within that person.

We believe that the term “marriage” has only one meaning: the uniting of one man and one woman in a single, exclusive union, as delineated in Scripture (Gen. 2:18-25). We believe that God intends sexual intimacy to occur only between a man and a woman, who are married to each other (1 Cor. 6:18; 7:2-5; Heb. 13:4). We believe that God has commanded that no sexual activity be engaged in outside of marriage. We believe that neither the federal government, the state, nor the church, nor any other individual possess the authority or jurisdiction to set or alter Scripture’s definition of marriage. Therefore, unions or partnerships that do not conform to the Biblical definition of marriage are not acknowledged by RiverRock Christian Church as marriage.

We believe that any form of sexual immorality (including adultery, fornication, homosexual behavior, bisexual behavior, transgenderism, bestiality, incest, and use of pornography) is sinful and offensive to God (Matt. 15:18-20; 1 Cor. 6:9-10). When we become aware of such practices, within the staff and membership of the church, we will follow the Matthew 18 process to seek repentance, reconciliation and restoration. Our heart is always to restore people to God and the body of Christ. But if repentance is not attained, employment and or membership will be denied or revoked. Any person who practices such behavior will no longer be eligible for the benefits of membership and/or employment. Therefore, those known to be habitual and unrepentant in the practice of these behaviors will be denied membership as well as revocation of employment, together with the benefits that accrue there from.

We believe that in order to preserve the function and integrity of RiverRock Christian Church as the local Body of Christ, and to provide a Biblical role model to RiverRock Christian Church’s members and the community, it is imperative that all persons employed by RiverRock Christian Church in any capacity, or who serve as volunteers, agree to and abide by RiverRock Christian Church Doctrinal Statement on Marriage, Gender, and Sexuality (Matt. 5:16; Phil. 2:14-16; 1 Thess. 5:22). 

We believe that God offers redemption and restoration to all who confess and forsake their sin, seeking His mercy and forgiveness through Jesus Christ (Acts 3:19-21; Rom. 10:9-10; 1 Cor. 6:9-11).

We believe that every person must be afforded compassion, love, kindness, respect and dignity (Mark 12:28-31; Luke 6:31). Hateful and harassing behavior or attitudes directed toward any individual are to be repudiated and are not in accord with Scripture nor the doctrines of RiverRock Christian Church.

Supportive Scripture: Genesis 1:26-27; Genesis 2:18-25; 1 Corinthians 6:18, 7:2-5; Hebrews 13:4; Matthew 15:18-20, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Matthew 5:16; Philippians 2:14-16; 1 Thessalonians 5:22; Acts 3:19-21; Romans 10:9-10; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Mark 12:28-31; Luke 6:31.

RCCP Doctrinal Statement: SANCTITY OF HUMAN LIFE

 We believe that all human life is sacred and created by God in His image (Genesis 1:26-28). Human life is of inestimable worth in all its dimensions, including pre-born babies, the aged, the physically or mentally challenged, and every other stage or condition from conception through natural death. We are therefore called to defend, protect, and value all human life (Psalm 139).

Supportive Scripture: Genesis 1:26-28; Psalm 139