People who have never entered a church and people who have been attending their whole lives have “why” questions. Here are our responses to several of those questions. While the following responses do not claim to be the final and authoritative word on all the “why” questions—we believe the answers can point you in the right direction.
Why does the Bible exist—why use it?
We believe the Bible is God-given, through people of Christian history, to connect us to the heart of God Himself. You can use the Bible daily for encouragement, instruction, comfort, and a better understanding of God.
Why is salvation important?
God gives people eternal life through Jesus Christ. The believer is secure in that salvation is forever. We do not earn salvation -- it is God’s gift to us. With the gift of salvation, we believe every person has direct access to God.
How do I join Temple Baptist Church?
1. Put your faith in Jesus as your Lord and Savior and being baptized by immersion. We call this believer’s baptism. 2. If you have already put your faith in Jesus, but have not been baptized by immersion, then follow Him in believer's baptism. 3. Transfer of membership by letter from another church. Statement of having previously accepted Christ and experienced baptism by immersion as a member of another church.
Why baptism?
Baptism is a visual testimony to God and others that you have a new life in Christ. It is a first step in obedience. If the purpose of baptism is to publicly identify a believer in Jesus Christ, the questions may well be asked by some, “What was the significance of my baptism as a baby?” In the Bible, we find parents bringing their children to Jesus. He held them, prayed for them, and told us to welcome them; but He did not baptize them, and He did not tell anyone else to baptize them. Baptism is for those who have made a personal decision to trust Christ alone for their salvation. Our scriptural understanding of baptism: 1. Act of obedience to the command of Jesus Christ, fulfilled by individuals who have submitted themselves to God’s desire for their life 2. Symbolizes the spiritual cleansing through God’s forgiveness and the newness of life experienced by identifying with Christ in death and resurrection by immersion into the water 3. Provides an opportunity for believers in Jesus Christ to make a formal declaration of their faith before the church 4. Standard for being a Christ-follower, baptism by immersion is a prerequisite for joining our church
Why the Lord’s Supper?
The Lord’s Supper is a time of reflection and remembrance of the sacrifice of our Savior, Jesus Christ, and celebrates the imminent second coming of Him to earth. The two elements -- bread and cup represent His body and blood.
Why give money to your church?
Giving requires the highest standard of personal integrity and discipline. Giving is not a casual or occasional thing. In 2 Corinthians 8-9, the Bible teaches we are to give willingly, generously, and cheerfully. Our pattern should reflect a regular and systematic plan. In Malachi 3:10, we learn God's standard of the tithe, or first tenth, being set apart in all of our earnings as a gift to God. Through our tithes and offerings, we prove trustworthy in the stewardship of all God has provided for us.
Where do the monies I give go?
Our church budget funds our ministries, personnel, administration, facilities and various mission projects. A detailed disbursement of monies spent within our church and outside of church is a matter of public record.
Why attend Bible study?
We believe small groups and Bible study represent the best method for establishing the kind of relational community that strengthens life change and supports the Christian journey. Ultimately we want to use all the small group Bible studies at TBC to encourage people toward love for God and people.
If you desire to know more details or look at Biblical support for our beliefs, it is also available on the About Us link.
Do you have a "Tough Question" not answered here? You can email or call the church office for more information.