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< BACK TO OUTLINE Previous Next VI. Justice, Community, and Culture 22. Race, Justice, and Gospel Unity We believe every person is created in the image of God and equally valuable in His sight. The gospel of Jesus Christ tears down dividing walls of hostility and makes us one family in Him. We reject racism, prejudice, and partiality in every form, and we affirm the Church’s call to pursue reconciliation, justice, and unity. While cultural definitions of justice shift, we hold to God’s unchanging standard of righteousness and truth. Scripture References: Micah 6:8; Acts 10:34-35; Galatians 3:28; Ephesians 2:14-16 Expanded Explanation: Biblical justice begins with the character of God. He is perfectly righteous, impartial, and compassionate toward the oppressed (Psalm 89:14). Because every person bears His image, all forms of racism, prejudice, or discrimination are sin. In Christ, the dividing wall between peoples has been broken down, creating one new humanity united by His blood (Ephesians 2:14–16). The gospel does more than call for tolerance—it produces reconciliation. Believers are not only forgiven but also made ministers of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18–19). Our unity is not built on culture, ethnicity, or preference but on Christ alone. While culture often redefines justice according to human standards, Scripture grounds it in God’s moral law and love. Biblical justice seeks both righteousness and restoration—it confronts sin and heals wounds. The Church’s role is to model this unity and truth, demonstrating that real reconciliation happens at the cross, where mercy and justice meet. 23. The Role of the Church in Culture We believe the Church is called to be salt and light in the world—living as a faithful presence of God’s truth and love in every sphere of society. Our mission is not to withdraw from culture but to engage it with grace and conviction, showing the beauty of the gospel in both word and action. The Church must stand firm in truth without compromise while extending compassion to all people, reflecting Christ’s heart full of grace and truth. Scripture References: Matthew 5:13-16; John 17:15-18; Romans 12:2; Colossians 4:5-6 Expanded Explanation: Jesus called His followers to be “salt” and “light” (Matthew 5:13–16)—preserving truth, exposing darkness, and displaying the goodness of God in a decaying world. The Church does not retreat from culture in fear, nor does it conform to it for acceptance. Instead, it stands as a redemptive influence, embodying grace and truth just as Christ did (John 1:14). Engaging culture requires both courage and humility. We must speak truth even when it’s unpopular, yet do so with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15). The Church’s witness loses credibility when it sacrifices truth for approval or truthfulness for harshness. Our mission is to reflect God’s kingdom values in the marketplace, media, education, family, and government—living with integrity in every sphere. When believers live this way, the world sees not self-righteousness, but hope. The gospel becomes visible through our compassion, generosity, and integrity, proving that the love of Christ transforms both hearts and communities. 24. Compassion and Mercy We believe God’s heart is for the broken, the hurting, and the forgotten. Jesus modeled perfect compassion, serving the poor, the sick, and the sinner with humility and love. As His followers, we are called to do the same—feeding the hungry, comforting the grieving, and helping the helpless. Acts of mercy are not secondary to the gospel but expressions of it, revealing the love of Christ in tangible ways. Scripture References: Matthew 25:35-40; Luke 6:36; Galatians 6:9-10; James 1:27 Expanded Explanation: Compassion is not optional for the people of God—it’s the heartbeat of the gospel. Jesus’ ministry consistently revealed mercy in action. He healed the sick, welcomed the outcast, and forgave sinners, demonstrating that God’s love meets people in their need. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37) illustrates that genuine faith expresses itself in practical care for others, regardless of status or difference. The Church continues this mission by serving those in physical, emotional, and spiritual need. James calls this “pure and undefiled religion” (James 1:27). Acts of mercy are not replacements for evangelism but partners with it, showing that the gospel is both spoken and seen. When believers love in word and deed, they reflect the heart of the Savior who came “not to be served, but to serve” (Mark 10:45). Compassionate ministry draws people toward Christ and builds bridges for the message of salvation. Every act of mercy is a proclamation of His kingdom—a reminder that God still sees, still cares, and still redeems. 25. Love and Unity in the Church We believe love is the defining mark of every follower of Jesus and the foundation of true Christian unity. The Church is one body with many members, united by the Holy Spirit under the lordship of Christ. Though we differ in background and perspective, we are called to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Truth keeps our love grounded; love keeps our truth gracious. Scripture References: John 13:34-35; Romans 12:9-10; Ephesians 4:2-3; Colossians 3:14 Expanded Explanation: Love is the clearest evidence of discipleship (John 13:34–35). Unity within the Church is not uniformity, but harmony—a diversity of gifts, callings, and backgrounds brought together under the lordship of Christ. The Holy Spirit is the bond that holds believers in fellowship, empowering us to forgive, encourage, and serve one another. Unity must be built on both love and truth. Love without truth becomes shallow sentimentality; truth without love becomes harsh legalism. Paul urges believers to “speak the truth in love” so that the body may grow and mature (Ephesians 4:15–16). Maintaining this unity requires humility, patience, and constant grace. When the Church lives in unity, it testifies to the watching world that the gospel is real. Our oneness becomes a living witness to Jesus’ prayer in John 17:21 — “that they may all be one… so that the world will believe.” A divided Church cannot heal a divided world, but a loving Church can reveal the unity of Christ’s heart to all people. Previous Next

< BACK TO OUTLINE Previous Next IX. Our Response — Love, Mission, and Discipleship 37. The Great Commandment and the Great Commission We believe Jesus summarized the Christian life in two great commands: to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love our neighbor as ourselves. Flowing from that love, we are commissioned to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey everything Christ has commanded. Love compels us to go, and the gospel gives us the message to share. We live out our faith through love in action, proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ to all people until He returns. Scripture References: Matthew 22:37-39; John 13:34-35; Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8** Expanded Explanation: The Christian life begins and ends with love — love for God and love for people. When Jesus was asked about the greatest commandment, He didn’t give a list of rules but pointed to relationship: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength” (Mark 12:30). This love fuels obedience, worship, and service. Flowing from it is the call to love others — not in words alone, but in action and truth (1 John 3:18). From this foundation of love comes our mission. Jesus commissioned His followers to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19), empowering them by the Holy Spirit to be His witnesses to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). The Great Commandment and the Great Commission are inseparable — one expresses the heart of God, the other fulfills His purpose. Every believer is both a disciple and a disciple-maker. Loving God leads to loving people, and loving people leads to sharing the gospel. Evangelism, service, generosity, and compassion are not optional programs but the natural overflow of a life transformed by grace. We live “on mission” every day — in our homes, workplaces, neighborhoods, and to the nations — until Christ returns and all creation joins in worship of the Lamb. Conclusion These beliefs form the foundation of our faith and practice. They are not merely doctrines to affirm but truths to live — shaping how we love God, serve others, and walk in the power of the Holy Spirit. In all things, we seek to glorify Jesus Christ, the author and finisher of our faith, until the day He returns and makes all things new. Previous Next

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FIRST STEPS FIRST STEPS First Steps is a 4-week class created to help new believers build a strong foundation in their faith. If you’ve said yes to Jesus and want to grow closer to God but are not sure where to begin, this class is for you. Each week focuses on an important part of following Jesus, including assurance of salvation, growing in your relationship with God, developing spiritual disciplines, and understanding the importance of the local church. First Steps is a safe and encouraging environment where you can ask questions, grow in confidence, and take your next step in faith. What You’ll Learn Week 1: Assurance of Your Salvation Week 2: Learning How to Grow in Your Relationship with God Week 3: Spiritual Practices of the Faith Week 4: Understanding Why Church Is Important When & Where New classes begin the first Sunday of every month and meet for 4 weeks. Original & Branch Campuses Sundays at 9:30 AM Branch Building, Room 201 Macon Campus Sundays at 9:00 AM Room 111 SIGN UP 2026 Class Dates SIGN UP March 1–22 April 12–26 May 3, 17, 24, 31 June 7–28 July 5–16 August 2–23 September 6–27 October 4–25 November 1–22 December 6–27 PREREGISTER YOUR CHILD CAMPUS MAP CAMPUS LOCATIONS & TIMES NEXT STEPS LEARN MORE

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< BACK TO OUTLINE Previous Next VII. The World — Our Stewardship and Witness 26. Creation, Stewardship, and the Environment We believe God created the heavens and the earth, and all creation reflects His glory. Humanity was given the responsibility to care for and cultivate the earth as wise stewards, not owners. We affirm our calling to use and protect God’s creation responsibly, recognizing that the world is entrusted to us for provision and for future generations. Though creation is broken because of sin, we look forward to the day when God will restore all things through Jesus Christ. Scripture References: Genesis 1:1, 28; Psalm 24:1; Romans 8:19-21; Revelation 21:5** Expanded Explanation: Creation itself is the first revelation of God’s glory. The heavens declare His majesty, and the earth displays His craftsmanship (Psalm 19:1). Humanity was placed in the garden not as owners but as caretakers, commissioned to “work it and watch over it” (Genesis 2:15). Stewardship reflects worship — caring for what God has made honors the One who made it. Sin brought disorder to creation, resulting in decay, disaster, and misuse of the world’s resources (Romans 8:20–22). Yet the command to steward the earth remains. Believers should approach creation with gratitude, humility, and responsibility — conserving what sustains life, cultivating what brings flourishing, and refusing to exploit what God has called good. Environmental care is not a political issue first; it is a spiritual one. The earth belongs to the Lord (Psalm 24:1), and one day Christ will restore it to perfection. Until then, we manage His creation faithfully as an act of worship and witness to His coming kingdom. 27. Justice, Poverty, and the Value of Work We believe God cares deeply for the poor, the oppressed, and the marginalized, and He calls His people to do the same. Work is a gift from God that provides purpose, provision, and a way to serve others. We affirm both our responsibility to care for those in need and the dignity of honest work, knowing that generosity and integrity reflect the heart of God. In all things, we are called to live with compassion, diligence, and gratitude, trusting God as our provider. Scripture References: Proverbs 14:31; Micah 6:8; Colossians 3:23-24; James 2:14-17** Expanded Explanation: God’s concern for justice includes practical compassion for the poor and the marginalized. Throughout Scripture, He defends the cause of the orphan, the widow, and the foreigner (Deuteronomy 10:18). To ignore those in need is to ignore the heart of God (Proverbs 14:31). Followers of Christ are called to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him (Micah 6:8). At the same time, work itself is part of God’s design. It was given before the fall as a means of purpose and stewardship (Genesis 2:15). Through work, we contribute to the good of others and reflect God’s creativity. The dignity of work reminds us that every honest vocation can honor God when done with excellence and integrity (Colossians 3:23–24). Justice and compassion are not opposites—they are partners. The Church’s mission is to meet both spiritual and physical needs, empowering people toward wholeness rather than dependency. Generosity, when guided by wisdom, displays the gospel and declares that God alone is our provider and sustainer. 28. Wealth, Possessions, and Generosity We believe everything we have comes from God and is entrusted to us to use for His glory. Earthly wealth and possessions are temporary, but they become eternal investments when used to bless others and advance God’s kingdom. We affirm the call to live with contentment and gratitude, practicing wise stewardship and joyful generosity. It is more blessed to give than to receive, and we gladly offer our time, talents, and treasures to the Lord. Scripture References: Malachi 3:10; Matthew 6:19-21; 2 Corinthians 9:6-8; Acts 20:35** Expanded Explanation: Stewardship begins with recognizing that everything we own ultimately belongs to God (Psalm 24:1). Wealth is not evil, but it is a trust that tests the heart. Jesus warned that we cannot serve both God and money (Matthew 6:24). Possessions become dangerous when they possess us, yet powerful when used for God’s purposes. Generosity is the antidote to greed. Giving aligns our hearts with heaven, storing treasure where moth and rust cannot destroy (Matthew 6:19–21). Whether through tithing, offerings, or acts of charity, believers express faith by releasing what they have to bless others. Paul reminds us that God loves a cheerful giver, not because He needs our resources, but because giving forms our character (2 Corinthians 9:7). Wise stewardship combines contentment and purpose. We work diligently, spend responsibly, and give generously, knowing that the measure of our life is not what we keep but what we invest in eternity. 29. Tithes and Offerings We affirm that the tithe—the first tenth of our income—is faithfully brought to the local church, without designation, as an act of worship, obedience, and trust in God. Offerings are given above the tithe as expressions of generosity to support specific needs, initiatives, and the advancement of God’s mission. Scripture References: Malachi 3:10; Proverbs 3:9-10; Matthew 6:21; Acts 11:29; 2 Corinthians 9:7** Expanded Explanation: While all that we have belongs to God and is entrusted to us as stewards, Scripture gives clear guidance for how believers practice faithful giving. The tithe—the first tenth—is consistently presented as belonging to the Lord and is to be brought into the storehouse, understood as the local church, where it supports the ongoing ministry and mission of God’s people (Malachi 3:10). Giving the tithe is an act of obedience and trust, placing God first and acknowledging Him as our provider (Proverbs 3:9–10). We believe the tithe is given without designation, entrusted to the church to steward wisely according to God’s leading and the collective discernment of the church’s financial leadership. This reflects both biblical pattern and practical unity, allowing the church to function effectively in fulfilling its mission. Offerings, given above the tithe, are expressions of generosity that may be directed toward specific needs or initiatives, as seen throughout Scripture—whether supporting God’s work, responding to urgent needs, or advancing the mission of the gospel (Exodus 35:21–29; Ezra 1:4; Nehemiah 2:8; Acts 11:29; 2 Corinthians 8–9; Philippians 4:15–18). At the same time, we recognize that all financial gifts are most effective when undesignated and entrusted to the Lord and to the spiritual leadership of the church for faithful stewardship and the greatest kingdom impact. Giving is not merely a financial practice but a spiritual act of worship that reflects the heart. Scripture calls believers to give willingly, cheerfully, and sacrificially, not under compulsion, but as an overflow of gratitude for God’s grace (2 Corinthians 9:7). Through faithful tithing and generous offerings, believers participate in God’s work, support the local church, and invest in eternal impact. 30. Science, Technology, and Faith We believe all truth is God’s truth, and that science and technology, when rightly understood, can reveal the wisdom and majesty of our Creator. Faith and reason are not enemies but partners in the pursuit of truth. We affirm the call to use knowledge and innovation responsibly, guided by humility and integrity, for the good of humanity and the glory of God. Our ultimate hope is not in human achievement but in Christ, who is the source of all wisdom. Scripture References: Psalm 19:1-2; Proverbs 2:6; Colossians 1:16-17; James 1:5** Expanded Explanation: Science and faith both seek truth — one explores God’s creation, the other His revelation. When rightly understood, they complement rather than contradict each other. The physical laws that science discovers were spoken into existence by the same God who inspired Scripture (Colossians 1:16–17). Human innovation reflects the creative image of God, yet it must remain under His authority. Knowledge without humility can become dangerous. Technology, though powerful, must serve love, justice, and life rather than pride or profit. Believers are called to engage in science, medicine, and technology with integrity, seeking solutions that uphold human dignity and care for creation. Faith and reason are both gifts from God. True wisdom is not found in human progress alone but in reverence for the Lord (Proverbs 9:10). As we explore creation and harness knowledge, we remember that our hope is not in invention but in redemption—the restoration of all things through Christ. 31. Christ, Government, and Politics We believe Jesus Christ is King over all nations, and our ultimate allegiance belongs to Him alone. Earthly governments are established by God to promote justice and peace, and believers are called to honor and pray for those in authority. While we engage in civic life with integrity and truth, the Church is not bound to any political party or ideology. Our hope is not in politics but in Christ and His kingdom, which will endure forever. Scripture References: Romans 13:1-2; 1 Timothy 2:1-2; Philippians 3:20; Isaiah 9:6-7** Expanded Explanation: God ordains government as part of His common grace—to restrain evil, promote order, and preserve justice (Romans 13:1–4). Christians should respect authority and pray for leaders, recognizing that God can work through even imperfect systems (1 Timothy 2:1–2). Yet our ultimate allegiance is to a higher kingdom—one that is not of this world (John 18:36). Engaging in public life is part of our witness, but the Church must not confuse the kingdom of God with any earthly agenda. Political ideologies shift; Christ’s reign does not. We are called to speak truth to power, defend righteousness, and model civility and compassion in every discussion. When believers act with integrity, justice, and humility in civic matters, they shine as salt and light in a divided world. Our hope rests not in elected leaders but in the coming King whose government will know no end (Isaiah 9:7). 32. Religious Liberty and Freedom of Conviction We believe genuine faith cannot be forced, for God alone is Lord of the conscience. Religious liberty is a gift from God that allows His people to worship, serve, and live according to His Word. We affirm the freedom of all people to seek and follow God without coercion, and the Church’s right to believe and teach according to Scripture. While we honor governing authorities, we will obey God above all when human commands conflict with His Word. Scripture References: Acts 5:29; Romans 14:5; Galatians 5:1; 1 Peter 2:13-17** Expanded Explanation: Religious liberty flows from the nature of God Himself. He does not force worship but invites it through love and conviction. True faith cannot be imposed by law or government; it must arise from a willing heart transformed by grace. This freedom is both a human right and a spiritual responsibility. Christians honor governing authorities (Romans 13:1) yet must also discern when obedience to God requires civil disobedience (Acts 5:29). The Church must be free to teach, preach, and live according to Scripture—even when doing so conflicts with cultural norms or political pressure. Protecting religious liberty is not about privilege but about mission. When believers live faithfully in the public square, they defend the dignity of conscience for all people, ensuring that the gospel can continue to be proclaimed freely until Christ returns. Previous Next

WELCOME TO THE JOY MINISTRY OUR MISSION Our mission is to make the gospel accessible to all individuals and the church accessible to all families. Student Information Form Volunteer Profile Application Where Love and Acceptance Flourish Joy Students & Adults Offered on Sundays at 11 AM Location: Learning Center/Chapel Joy Kids Offered on Sundays at 8 AM, 9:30 AM & 11 AM and Wednesdays at 7 PM Location: RS Kids Building Coming Soon to Macon The Joy Ministry will be available at our Macon Campus! More Info: Email us at joy@rockspringsonline.com RS Kids Sensory Room

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