BETHLEHEM
CORE VALUES
Worship Excellence: Praying daily. Reading the Bible daily. Worshiping
weekly. Authentic, inspiring worship brings glory to God and enhances the lives
of believers. Bethlehem will strive to offer variety and excellence in every
worship opportunity. (John 4:23-24; Romans 12:1; Hebrews 10:22)
Servant Leadership: God created us so that we might humbly serve one
another. Bethlehem will work to give God’s people opportunities for joyful and
meaningful service within the congregation and community. (Mark 10:34;
Galatians 5:13; Ephesians 2:10; 1 Peter 4:10).
Faithful Managers: God is the real owner of all property including our
building facilities and all resources. It is only right and proper that
Bethlehem maintains these gifts from God) and be faithful in the way that we
use them. (Psalm 24:1; James 1:17; Psalm 148:13)
Thoughtful Planners: God has given us the ability to strategize efforts
for ministry. Our desire is to collectively seek out God’s plans which
move our ministry forward to better share Jesus. (Proverbs 12:5; Psalm 20:4;
Ecclesiastes 9:10; Proverbs 15:22)
Truth Matters: God’s Word and Sacraments are the Means of Grace God
uses to transform and grow people. Bethlehem commits to clearly preaching
and teaching God’s inspired and inerrant Word, focusing on the Law and Gospel,
to bring people to Christ (Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:42; 1
Corinthians 11:23-29).
Spiritual Growth: Personal spiritual growth and life-long learning are
essential for every believer. Bethlehem is committed to growing God’s
family of all ages (Acts 2:42; 2 Timothy 3:14-17; 2 Peter 3:18).
Shared Partnerships: Gospel ministries outside our church impact lives
and rely on our support. Bethlehem is committed to supporting those ministries
with our prayers, financial resources, and volunteer assistance whenever possible. (Matthew 25:34-40; Philippians 2:4; Philippians 4:14-16; 1 Thessalonians 5:25)
Gospel Sharing: We are all called to be a public witness of our faith
at every opportunity. Reaching out with the Gospel to the lost is
the responsibility of every Christian. Bethlehem seeks to equip individual
members to share Jesus with those who are within their circles of influence. (Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 15; Acts 8:4; 1 Peter 3:15).