Our Lifestyle Statement

Beliefs are not worth much unless they are translated into actions. Based on what the Bible teaches, we feel very strongly about the following six practices:

The Bible Is Our Sole Authority

“The whole Bible was given to us by inspiration from God and is useful to teach us what is true and make us realize what is wrong in our lives; it straightens us out and helps us to do what is right.”  2 Tim. 3:15

Since God’s Word is the only completely reliable and truthful authority, we accept the Bible as our manual for living.  Our first question when faced with a decision is “What does the Bible say?”  We practice daily Bible reading, Bible study, and Bible memorization.  The Bible is the basis for all we believe and practice.

The Priesthood of Every Believer

“Christ loves us, and by His death He has freed us from our sins and made us a kingdom of priests to serve God…”  Rev. 1:6 (GN)  “You are…the King’s priests…God’s own people, chosen to proclaim the wonderful acts of God.” 1 Pet. 2:9 (GN)

The Bible teaches that every Christian is called to “full time” Christian service, regardless of his or her vocation.  We practice the truth that every believer is a minister by encouraging every member to find a place of service and ministry.  Every believer has direct access to God through prayer and Bible reading.

Tithing

“A tithe of everything you produce belongs to the Lord; it is holy to the Lord.”  Lev. 26:30

At Agape House we practice tithing for the support of Christ’s body, the church, as God commands.  We recognize that giving 10% of our income is the Biblical standard of giving.

“What sorrow awaits you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! For you are careful to tithe even the tiniest income from your herb gardens, but you ignore the more important aspects of the law—justice, mercy, and faith. You should tithe, yes, but do not neglect the more important things.”Matthew 23:23

Spirit-led Living

(Jesus said), “I am the Vine, you are the branches.  If you abide in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; but apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5

We believe the only way possible to live the Christian life is by God’s power within us.  So we seek to practice a daily dependence on God’s Spirit to enable us to do what is right.  (Phil. 2:13, Eph. 5:18)

Dress Code

Agape House New Testament Church strives to glorify God and transform lives. In our pursuit of godliness, we adhere to a strict code of conduct, which includes suitable attire for church. In 1 Timothy 2:9, it says “In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel…” The word “modest” is defined in Collin’s English Dictionary as: 1. having or expressing a humble opinion of oneself or one’s accomplishments or abilities; 2. reserved or shy; 3. not ostentatious or pretentious; 4. not extreme or excessive, moderate; 5. decorous or decent.

Therefore, God expects a woman to dress in a proper, well-mannered fashion. It is good practice to ensure your clothes are not provocative, tight fitting or revealing. Good dressing is not only restricted to women, it applies to men also. Men must ensure that when they come to church, they are dressed appropriately too, which means that trousers should be tailored and not loose, especially around the waist, and shirts should not be revealing, but clean, smart and modest. Christians are to be examples to those around them, living the pages of the Bible for those who never read them. Your appearance and actions should exude stability and good judgment at all times.

Telling Others About Christ

“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.”  1 Peter 3:15

It is the responsibility of every Christian to share the Good News with those with whom God brings us into contact.  We practice personal sharing about Christ and inviting friends to church.