Core Values
Decatur First Church of the Nazarene
"Leading people to a Christ-like life"
We are a community of believers 'doing life together' so that others are drawn to God by experiencing the Christ-likeness of the family here at Decatur First Church of the Nazarene. We believe that each individual matters to God and has a responsibility to pursue God's purpose.
Our Core Values are founded upon our loving obedience to Jesus. They define why we do what we do.
I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.
John 13:15
Scripture
The Bible is God's truth, revealing His plan of salvation. It is our guide for successful Christian living. It is relevant to all peoples and cultures.
Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.' "Matthew 4:4
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. I Timothy 3:16
Worship
Worship is our heart's response to the recognition of God. We seek to honor God in corporate worship and personal settings, by giving our time, talents and treasures, as well as by our songs, praises and prayers of thanksgiving.
"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 12:8
"Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." 2 Corinthians 9:7
Unity
We are a church of diverse individuals called together by God to be one in ministry, spirit and mission.
"Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Ephesians 4:3
" May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus." Romans 15:5
Christian Community
We strive to develop Christ-like relationships to demonstrate God's presence in our lives.
"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. John 13:34
Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?" He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep."John 21:16
Prayer
Jesus lives a life of prayer and instructs us to do the same. God hears and answers prayers. Church decisions, ministries and actions should be made prayerfully seeking His will, guidance and power.
"Pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." I Thessalonians 5:17
"This, then, is how you should pray:" 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. Matthew 5:9-13
Reaching People
Jesus came to seek and save the lost. God entrusted us with the Great Commission to actively seek and share the Good News of Jesus Christ with all people.
"For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost." Luke 19:10
"Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:16-20
Passing the Faith Along
We accept our responsibility as a church to partner with parents in raising the next generation fully committed to the Lord.
"Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them." Deuteronomy 4:9
"These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates." Deuteronomy 6:6-9