Theological Distinctives of the Dwelling Place

​

• The Role of Women

  • We believe the Bible teaches that God created two complementary sexes of humans, male and female, to bear His image together (Gen. 1:27-28; Matt. 19:4; Mark 10:6). This distinction in gender represents an essential characteristic of personhood and reflects an essential part of being created in God’s image. As outlined in Scripture, we therefore believe that men and women are absolutely equal in essence, dignity and value and are complementary by divine design.

  • We believe that God has created men and women to have some innately different roles in marriage, family life, and religious leadership as is evidenced in the scriptures. With this in mind, we practice biblical examples that see men in leadership roles for all pastoral responsibilities and elders within the church.

• Abortion

  • Since the first century the Church has affirmed the moral evil of every procured abortion. This teaching remains unchangeable. Direct abortion, that is to say, abortion willed either as an end or a means, is gravely and clearly contrary to biblical values. We recognize abortion, as any other sin, where God can forgive, heal and restore our hearts and relationships.

  •  It is also important to recognize that our church supports a womb to the tomb mentality where we aim to provide support for all of God’s children in all phases of their lives.

• Gender, Sexuality and the Family

  • The idea of the traditional family structure is to mirror God’s principles and plan for humanity and our church desires to support this important family structure. We support biblical marriage and gender roles and also support those who have been called by God to a ministry of singleness.

  • We affirm that the  gospel empowers Christians to live in accord with the biblical vision for gender and sexuality taught in Genesis. (Gen. 1:27)