Recognizing that each Summit Fellowship is a local congregation, this statement of faith is deliberately vague on some points to allow flexibility on such matters as eschatology, ecclesiology and perpetuity of spiritual gifts. As an extended community we recognize the wisdom of the statement, “In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity.”
We believe in the authority of scripture, comprised of the sixty-six inspired books of the Bible through which we receive instruction about all things pertaining to life and living. From scripture we learn of God’s eternal nature as Creator, Sustainer and King. We believe God is one Being revealed in three unique personalities; Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. As we relate to each as God, we come to understand His plan to restore relationship with the fallen human race and unity between heaven and earth (Ephesians 1:9-10).
We believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, Who is the evidence of the Father’s eternal love for His creation. We believe Jesus is incarnate deity; that He was born of the Virgin Mary; that He lived a sinless life so that He might atone for the sins of humankind through physical death on the cross and then proclaim victory over death by His bodily resurrection. We believe that He ascended to the right hand of the throne of glory; that by His Spirit He indwells believers; and that in the fullness of time He will return as King to rule over all creation forever. (Hebrews 1:3)
We believe in the Holy Spirit Who brings the very breath of resurrection life to all those who believe in Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit teaches, empowers, and leads the Bride of Christ, His Church, to participate in God’s Kingdom work on earth in preparation for His glorious return at the end of this age. (John 14:15-17)
We believe the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus ushered in a New Covenant to replace the Old. We believe in the profound simplicity of Christ’s only New Covenant Commandment to love others as He loves us. As believers live in love for one another, the Church is unified, becoming the visible healing presence of Jesus in the world. (John 13:34-35 and Romans 13:8)