We have crafted a statement of faith that is broadly Evangelical, with the goals of remaining faithful to Scripture while having a ministry that crosses denominational lines. But we have found it necessary to define our position more narrowly on two issues related to marriage, because ministering to abusive relationships demands a leadership team that is united on that subject. Refuge leaders are required to endorse this statement of faith, but we welcome the opportunity to minister to survivors of all beliefs.
Scripture:
We believe the Bible is the written word of God, inspired by the Holy Spirit and without error in the original manuscripts. The Bible is the revelation of God’s truth and is infallible and authoritative in all matters of faith and practice.
God:
We believe in the Holy Trinity. There is one God, who exists eternally in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Humanity:
We believe that human beings are created in God’s image. Through the fall of Adam and Eve, all people are sinful, alienated from God, and justly deserve His wrath.
Jesus Christ:
We believe that Jesus Christ is both fully God and fully man. Through his perfect life, sacrificial death, and bodily resurrection He atoned for the sins of all who trust in Him alone for salvation.
Salvation:
We believe that salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone in the Lord Jesus Christ alone. Salvation is not based on good works or merit.
Holy Spirit:
We believe that the Holy Spirit indwells God’s people and gives them the strength and wisdom to trust Christ and follow Him.
The Church:
We believe that active participation in a local church is essential for the growth and accountability of believers.
Christian Life:
We believe that all aspects of our lives are to be lived to the glory of God under the lordship of Jesus Christ.
Marriage Roles:
We believe that God created human beings male and female, after His own image. Therefore men and women have equal value, and both should be treated with the same respect and dignity. Within this framework of equality, God gave men and women different roles in the family. He created men to be servant-leaders, and he created women to be their helpers – an essential role involving partnership and support. Male leadership should be exercised in a context of mutuality, and characterized by love, care, and self-sacrifice. While no man fully lives up to this ideal, some men twist Scripture and use their leadership to abuse and oppress their families. In such situations, God does not call women to submit to abuse.
Marriage and Divorce:
We believe that God created the covenant of marriage as a reflection of the relationship between Christ and the Church. It exists for the glory of God, and for the mutual benefit of husband and wife. Divorce should only occur when a spouse has biblical grounds. We further believe that domestic abuse creates an oppressive environment in the home that often forces the survivor to leave for her own wellbeing. Such sin on the part of the abuser constitutes biblical grounds for divorce.
Christ’s Return:
We believe that Jesus will return, bodily and visibly, to judge all humanity and to receive His people to Himself.
