An Overview of Victory
1 PHILOSOPHY
A Biblical Philosophy of Ministry
Four principles that are foundational to the local New Testament Church.
The Local Church The Local Church
The word church is derived from the Greek word ekklesia. The word is used most often throughout Scripture to describe an assembly, usually the New Testament church. Not a church in the sense of a building but rather a group of people. A clear definition of the Greek word ekklesia simply is “an assembly of called out ones”. If the church is then called out than we must ask from what and for what is the church called out.
Scripture clearly teaches that the church is called out from the world. Called out from the world does not mean that contact with the world must cease but rather that we must separate from the conduct and practices of the world which are in direct violation of the Biblical principles laid down in God’s word.
The purpose for which the church was called out is simple; to glorify God. Everything in the life of the church and the individual member of the church is to glorify God. So how is this accomplished? There are four primary ways that this is accomplished.
Evangelism
Have you ever noticed that a person’s final words always seem to reflect what they view as most important? If you knew that the words you were about to speak would be your final words you would no doubt emphasize what was most important to you. The same is true of God’s Son Jesus. In Matthew 28:19 we see the last words of Jesus as he ascended into Heaven were to make disciples, or evangelize. The word “evangelize” literally means “to spread good news”. The followers of Christ are not responsible to “convert” people but rather to “evangelize” or spread the good news of the message of Christ.
"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, Mat 28:20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Matthew 28:19
Because spreading the good news of Christ is the church’s primary responsibility evangelism should be the first item on the church’s “to do” list.
Many churches today have all but given up on the evangelism. Often times they have not purposefully given up on evangelism, but they have become so inward focused that they cannot see beyond the walls of their own buildings. If a church is not evangelizing its surrounding community it has lost its purpose.
So how does evangelism in the local church take place? What does evangelism look like? First of all we need to realize that evangelism is not a program or a method. While we can organize events to provide a framework for evangelism and we can teach people how to effectively defend their faith we must understand that evangelism is simply the natural outpouring of a heart that is filled with the love of Christ, and is overwhelmed with gratitude because of what He has done. This love in turn permeates every aspect of our being thereby our very lives proclaim Christ (John 13:34-35; 17:20-23). You cannot force a person to evangelize any more than you force a child to excel at something they do not have a passion for. If a person does not have a deep personal relationship with God they will not have a desire to evangelize. Through solid Biblical teaching and preaching as well as a commitment to personal discipleship (as we will see later) each individual within the body will grow and evangelism will be the natural result.
Before we can explain what it is we must first understand that evangelism is a process. There is also a misunderstanding within Christianity today when it comes to evangelism. Evangelism involves much more than simply leading someone in the “sinner’s prayer”. Evangelism is the first step in a process. It involves both “sowing” as well as “harvesting”, both of which are critical. When most people think of evangelism they think primarily in terms of harvesting. Just as a farmer must wait months between the times the seed is planted the harvest we too must understand that the individual believer as well as the corporate body must sow and wait before seeing a harvest. While sowing may not be as “exciting” and “emotional” as harvesting it is equally important.
Sowing in relation to the individual may take on the form of helping an unbeliever with menial tasks, offering an invitation to dinner, helping out in a time of need, etc. All of these will offer opportunities to share Biblical principles and the gospel message of Christ. The church can sow corporately as well. Offering food, shelter and clothing to those with needs outside the body are all opportunities to sow. Offering classes, small groups and conferences covering topics such as parenting, marriage, finances, purpose of life, life after death etc. will help to generate interest concerning spiritual matters within the community.
Most unbelievers are wary of churches and believers. There are many misconceptions about Christianity, some founded but most unfounded, that exist in the mind of the average unbeliever. By showing genuine love for the unbeliever and making every effort to help when needs arise (not just spiritual but physical and emotional as well) these misconceptions will eventually be proven false (John 17:23). By showing the love of Christ to our community we earn the right to share the gospel with them (Col. 4:5-6)
Discipleship
While evangelism is the natural outgrowth of a grateful and loving heart, discipleship is the process by which this kind of heart is formed. It is very easy for a church to become unbalanced by focusing so heavily on evangelism that discipleship falls by the wayside. Discipleship is a process which involves teaching, encouraging and accountability. Discipleship was another thing that Jesus emphasized in His final words in Matthew 28:20. The believer that is not discipled is like an infant that fed once a day and is never taken out of his crib, his growth will be stunted (I Cor. 3:1-2). Lack of discipleship in the believer also causes a loss of evangelistic fervor. In order for the believer to live according to God’s word he/she must know God’s word.
Discipleship involves many things. The preaching of God’s word is important in the life of the believer but it is just one area of discipleship. The new believer is full of questions about the Bible, God, how to live, etc. Personal or small group discipleship provides an excellent environment for the new believer to grow and learn from God’s word on personal level.
The key to discipleship with the new believer is simplicity. Just as you cannot give an infant steak and potatoes you cannot overload the new believer with information. Start out with the basics and progress from there. God’s revelation is progressive; He didn’t dump it all on us at once. We must be careful not to discourage the new believer with information overload.
Another important factor when disciplining the new believer is a commitment to stay true to the word of God. The danger with humans is our tendency to want people to see things our way. The new believer often looks at the discipler as the example of what he/she should be. Many times they will wear what you wear to church, purchase the same Bible you have, etc. We must be very careful not to transfer our own preferences and tastes to the one we are discipling. Remember that you are not the one causing growth in the new believer’s life, but rather it is God (I Cor. 3:8). You simply teach them what God’s word says and with the help of the Holy Spirit they will form their own convictions. We want the end result of our discipleship to be Christ followers not man followers.
Another important part of discipleship is accountability. The new believer can and will become frustrated easily. This is natural because he/she wants to grow but yet struggles with sin and other hindrances. In Galatians 6:2 we are told to “Bear one another's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." God did not create us to be independent but rather to be dependant on Him and our brothers and sisters in Christ. Wearing masks to hide our true self is a huge problem within Christianity today and there is nothing more detrimental to the growth of the believer. Scripture clearly teaches that we are all on a level playing field. The only thing that separates the believer and unbeliever is the grace of God. We have no right to look down on others or place ourselves above them simply because they struggle with something we do not.
Accountability is best accomplished in small groups, preferable of the same sex. Prayer and personal testimony should be part of each meeting as well as direct and pointed questions regarding ones life and spiritual walk. Confidentiality is vital for these groups to flourish.
Finally, discipleship should be an ongoing part of the believer’s life. As a believer grows in age as well as spiritual maturity is the duty of each one to disciple or come along side of those younger (Titus 2:2-8) and instruct them in all areas of life, not with an attitude of superiority but rather out of love and with a genuine desire to see the young believer grow, with the gospel in them (Col. 4:5-6)
Fellowship
Fellowship, which is derived from the Greek word koinonis, means “sharing”. Fellowship can only occur when believers are together. Fellowship in the early church involved meeting and sharing of physical possessions such as food as well as sharing spiritually with one another. God designed every human being to be deeply relational. Humans need other humans! Watch or listen to any talk show and you will see that people hunger for fulfilling relationships and the exciting thing is that we have the answer; a deep personal relationship with the true and loving God as well as the opportunity to become part of a family made up of followers of that God. When true and genuine fellowship is occurring within the local church the unbelieving world finds it irresistible.
Fellowship must go beyond scheduled service times. Genuine fellowship which causes the body to grow closer together (Eph. 4:15-16) must occur more than 1-2 times per week. The early church viewed the fellowship of the body as an oasis in the middle of a desert. Fellowship provides a source of love and encouragement in an unloving and discouraging world. We must make every effort to provide a sense of community within the body that not only edifies the believer but brings about a desire to participate within the unbeliever.
Service
If evangelism, discipleship and fellowship are equally balanced within the local church than the end result will be service. This kind of service is not forced but rather it springs forth out of a heart of gratitude. Through discipleship, accountability and fellowship he/she will begin to see the spiritual gifts they possess and will desire to use them to strengthen the body and to glorify God. It is important to understand that Christ is our ultimate example of what a servant is to be (John 12:14; Phil. 2:5-11). If we follow His example we will always be ready and willing to serve and a willingness to serve is a clear indication of a humble heart and proper attitude which God will honor.
It is important that the leadership of the church always look for new and creative opportunities for individuals to serve within the body. By encouraging every one within the body to use his/her gifts the individual and the church as a whole will become stronger (I Cor. 12:1-31). Within the discipleship process it is essential that the new believer understands that service within the body is not an option but rather a command of God. We must emphasize that God’s expectations for each believer is high.
These four purposes must all be fulfilled within the local church if it is to operate as designed by God. Christ Himself established the church and He is the head over it. We must always seek His guidance and direction in all things pertaining to His bride so that “…he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.” (Eph. 5:27). Amen
2 Purpose
Purpose and Vision
Purpose Statement
The purpose of Victory is to bring people into an intimate relationship with their Creator and Savior Jesus Christ by reaching out, growing within and serving everywhere.
The Vision of Victory Baptist Church
To be a local New Testament church, Biblically sound in its teaching but free in its form and function following the principles for the church laid down in the Word of God.
To provide sound Biblical preaching and teaching which is highly relevant and applicable to the body and it’s surrounding community.
To promote an atmosphere within the worship and preaching service which will focus all attention God ward.
To creatively introduce the local community to Christ using the God-given gifts and abilities of those within the church.
To purposely equip and encourage all members to multiply themselves through relational evangelism.
To consistently disciple and equip all believers in the Word of God.
To purposely provide an atmosphere which will promote close, personal fellowship among the believers.
To assist members in identifying and using their spiritual gifts and abilities to serve God and edify the body of Christ.
To purposely provide opportunities for all members to serve, and assimilate them into the ministry of the local church.
3 Strategy
Three Environments
Victory Baptist Church will utilize a strategy of three environments to bring people into an intimate relationship with their Creator and Savior Jesus Christ. These environments are simply the means by which we accomplish what we believe God has commanded us, as a local body of believers, to do which is; to reach out to our community, promote fellowship within the body, and equip believers for ministry.
The Foyer is a Place for Meeting
Our Sunday worship is our primary foyer environment. This is the “big” group at Victory. The foyer represents the first level of commitment within the family. Just like a foyer in the home it is a place where people are introduced and get acquainted. A person in the foyer should feel just as welcome here as they would in your home. This is the place where we, the Victory family, display the love and acceptance that Christ offers to all.
The person in the foyer is most likely…
- Searching for something (probably not sure for what they are searching).
- Seeking for stability for their family (help in marriage or child rearing).
- Seeking help (spiritual, emotional, etc).
- Visiting at the request of a friend or family member.
- Looking for a church family to identify with.
Our response to the person in the foyer
Our first and primary goal should be to establish relationships within the foyer. A person who feels welcomed is more likely to return and to respond. This must go beyond the typical Sunday morning greeting. This is the job of everyone within the Victory family not pre-selected greeters. The person must see that we have a genuine interest in them.
- Introduce yourself and take a personal interest in them and their family.
- Be warm and personable.
- Assist them in finding their way around. Never let them stand around wondering where they need to go. They should never have to ask for help.
- Offer to sit with them in the service.
* We would like to establish a “Sunday lunch” ministry at Victory. Families within this ministry would offer to take visiting families to lunch their first Sunday visiting Victory .
The Living Room is a Place for Growing
The living room is a place to settle in and build deeper relationships. The living room represents the “smaller group” at Victory. The person in the living room has moved beyond the foyer and is settling in and is becoming a part of the family. They now not only attend Sunday worship but are also involved, at some level, in a “community fellowship” and are attending membership meetings, and other classes offered at
Victory. The person in the living room is most likely a follower of Christ. If he/she has not become a believer in the foyer they most likely will do so in the living room.
Community Fellowships: groups of 20-30 people that meet once per month in for fellowship, encouragement and to build and strengthen relationships
The Kitchen is a Place for Serving
The kitchen is where the work is done. While this will most likely be the largest of the three environments it is considered the “smallest group” at Victory. The person in the kitchen not only faithfully attending Sunday worship and growth groups but is also a committed follower of Jesus Christ and actively involved in serving Him within the ministry at Victory. All persons in the kitchen are members of Victory and are involved in L.I.F.E*. (Living In Faith Everyday) groups as well as F.I.T.** (Faith In Training) classes. This is the place where in depth Bible study and spiritual growth is occurring. This is also from where the “one another” principles within the body of Christ are carried out.
The person in the kitchen is actively involved in ministering within all three environments at Victory.
*L.I.F.E. Groups: groups of 4-6 individuals or 5-6 married couples that meet in homes weekly for prayer, Bible study, and accountability.
**F.I.T. (Faith in Training) Classes: The purpose of these classes is to equip believers, through solid Biblical training, with the tools necessary to evangelize their community, teach others, and carry out discipleship within the body of Christ at Victory.
4 Statement of Faith
At Victory Baptist Church our beliefs are an important part of who we are and what we do. The following is an overview of the foundational truths upon which Victory is built.
The Bible
We believe the Bible is God’s written revelation to man. It is verbally inspired in every word and inerrant in the original autographs (manuscripts). The word of God is infallible, sufficient for all things, and is our final and sole authority in all matters.
2 Timothy 1:13; 3:16 2 Peter 1:20-21 Psalm 119:105, 160; 12:6 Proverbs 30:5
God
We believe there only one, living and true God, an infinite, all knowing Spirit. He is perfect in all His attributes, one in essence, eternally existing in three co-equal persons; the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Genesis 1:1, 26, 27, 3:222; 2 Corinthians 13:14; 1 Peter 1:2; Matthew 28:19;
Psalm 90:2
Jesus Christ
We believe that Jesus Christ is God's Son. He is co-equal with the Father. He is fully God and fully man. He was born of a virgin, lived a sinless human life, performed miracles, and offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of His people by dying on a cross. He died to become a substitutionary atonement for the sins of His people. He arose from the dead after three days to demonstrate His power over sin and death. He ascended to Heaven’s glory and will return again someday to earth to reign as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
Matthew 1:22-23; 1 Timothy 6:14-15; Romans 1:3-4; Hebrews 4:14-15; Isaiah 9:6; Titus 2:13; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4; John 1:1-5; 14:10-30
The Holy Spirit
We believe the Holy Spirit is co-equal with the Father and the Son of God. He is the divine helper, assistant, counselor and instructor. He is present in the world to make mankind aware of their need for Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit baptizes all believers into the Body of Christ at the moment of salvation. The Holy Spirit also indwells, sanctifies, instructs, empowers them for service, and seals them unto the day of redemption. He provides the Christian with power of living, understanding of spiritual truth, and guidance in doing what is right. He gives every believer a spiritual gift when they are saved. As Christians, we seek to live under His control daily.
2 Corinthians 3:17; Acts 1:8; Ephesians 1:13; Ephesians 5:18; John 16:7-13; 14:16-27; 1 Corinthians 2:12; 3:16; Galatians 5:25
Mankind
We believe that mankind has been created in the image of God and possesses intellect, emotion, and will. As the supreme object of God’s creation, we were designed for dignity and fellowship with Him. However, Adam’s sin sent all of creation into a fallen state, and plunged all his descendants into depravity. Thus, everyone, without exception, is marred by willful rebellion and disobedience toward God, which is called “sin.” As a result, man is totally incapable of regaining a right relationship with God through his own efforts.
Genesis 1:27 Psalm 8:3-6 Romans 3:23 Isaiah 53:6a; 59:1-2
Salvation
We believe that salvation is God’s free gift to us. We receive this gift through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ alone. Repentance means turning away from our sin and turning towards Christ. Faith means trusting in Christ alone for the forgiveness of our sins. When we place our faith in Jesus Christ, His perfect obedience is credited to us so that God sees us as the righteousness of Christ. Every person who truly is saved will spend eternity in heaven, while those who die in a place spoken of by Jesus called hell.
Romans 6:23 Titus 3:5 John 14:6, 1:12 Galatians 3:26 Ephesians 2:8-9 Romans 5:1
Security of the Believer
God gives us eternal life through Jesus Christ. If you have made a genuine commitment of faith in Jesus, you cannot lose your salvation. Salvation is maintained by the grace and power of God alone, not by any self-effort of the Christian. Salvation is through God’s grace and power and is that same grace and power that enables the believer to persevere in faith until the end.
John 10:29 Ephesians 2:1-10 1 Peter 1:3-5 Hebrews 7:25; 10:10, 14 2 Timothy 1:12
5 Goals
Future Ministry Goals
Build a Building that would provide space to do the following:
Children’s Ministry
Community Youth Ministry
Singles Ministry
Single Parent Ministry
Marriage Ministry
Prison Ministry
Needs Ministry for the “Down and Out”
Home/Foreign Missions Training Center
Adult Bible Training Center
Hispanic Outreach
Community Outreach Ministry
A Biblical Philosophy of Ministry
Four principles that are foundational to the local New Testament Church.
The Local Church The Local Church
The word church is derived from the Greek word ekklesia. The word is used most often throughout Scripture to describe an assembly, usually the New Testament church. Not a church in the sense of a building but rather a group of people. A clear definition of the Greek word ekklesia simply is “an assembly of called out ones”. If the church is then called out than we must ask from what and for what is the church called out.
Scripture clearly teaches that the church is called out from the world. Called out from the world does not mean that contact with the world must cease but rather that we must separate from the conduct and practices of the world which are in direct violation of the Biblical principles laid down in God’s word.
The purpose for which the church was called out is simple; to glorify God. Everything in the life of the church and the individual member of the church is to glorify God. So how is this accomplished? There are four primary ways that this is accomplished.
Evangelism
Have you ever noticed that a person’s final words always seem to reflect what they view as most important? If you knew that the words you were about to speak would be your final words you would no doubt emphasize what was most important to you. The same is true of God’s Son Jesus. In Matthew 28:19 we see the last words of Jesus as he ascended into Heaven were to make disciples, or evangelize. The word “evangelize” literally means “to spread good news”. The followers of Christ are not responsible to “convert” people but rather to “evangelize” or spread the good news of the message of Christ.
"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, Mat 28:20 teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Matthew 28:19
Because spreading the good news of Christ is the church’s primary responsibility evangelism should be the first item on the church’s “to do” list.
Many churches today have all but given up on the evangelism. Often times they have not purposefully given up on evangelism, but they have become so inward focused that they cannot see beyond the walls of their own buildings. If a church is not evangelizing its surrounding community it has lost its purpose.
So how does evangelism in the local church take place? What does evangelism look like? First of all we need to realize that evangelism is not a program or a method. While we can organize events to provide a framework for evangelism and we can teach people how to effectively defend their faith we must understand that evangelism is simply the natural outpouring of a heart that is filled with the love of Christ, and is overwhelmed with gratitude because of what He has done. This love in turn permeates every aspect of our being thereby our very lives proclaim Christ (John 13:34-35; 17:20-23). You cannot force a person to evangelize any more than you force a child to excel at something they do not have a passion for. If a person does not have a deep personal relationship with God they will not have a desire to evangelize. Through solid Biblical teaching and preaching as well as a commitment to personal discipleship (as we will see later) each individual within the body will grow and evangelism will be the natural result.
Before we can explain what it is we must first understand that evangelism is a process. There is also a misunderstanding within Christianity today when it comes to evangelism. Evangelism involves much more than simply leading someone in the “sinner’s prayer”. Evangelism is the first step in a process. It involves both “sowing” as well as “harvesting”, both of which are critical. When most people think of evangelism they think primarily in terms of harvesting. Just as a farmer must wait months between the times the seed is planted the harvest we too must understand that the individual believer as well as the corporate body must sow and wait before seeing a harvest. While sowing may not be as “exciting” and “emotional” as harvesting it is equally important.
Sowing in relation to the individual may take on the form of helping an unbeliever with menial tasks, offering an invitation to dinner, helping out in a time of need, etc. All of these will offer opportunities to share Biblical principles and the gospel message of Christ. The church can sow corporately as well. Offering food, shelter and clothing to those with needs outside the body are all opportunities to sow. Offering classes, small groups and conferences covering topics such as parenting, marriage, finances, purpose of life, life after death etc. will help to generate interest concerning spiritual matters within the community.
Most unbelievers are wary of churches and believers. There are many misconceptions about Christianity, some founded but most unfounded, that exist in the mind of the average unbeliever. By showing genuine love for the unbeliever and making every effort to help when needs arise (not just spiritual but physical and emotional as well) these misconceptions will eventually be proven false (John 17:23). By showing the love of Christ to our community we earn the right to share the gospel with them (Col. 4:5-6)
Discipleship
While evangelism is the natural outgrowth of a grateful and loving heart, discipleship is the process by which this kind of heart is formed. It is very easy for a church to become unbalanced by focusing so heavily on evangelism that discipleship falls by the wayside. Discipleship is a process which involves teaching, encouraging and accountability. Discipleship was another thing that Jesus emphasized in His final words in Matthew 28:20. The believer that is not discipled is like an infant that fed once a day and is never taken out of his crib, his growth will be stunted (I Cor. 3:1-2). Lack of discipleship in the believer also causes a loss of evangelistic fervor. In order for the believer to live according to God’s word he/she must know God’s word.
Discipleship involves many things. The preaching of God’s word is important in the life of the believer but it is just one area of discipleship. The new believer is full of questions about the Bible, God, how to live, etc. Personal or small group discipleship provides an excellent environment for the new believer to grow and learn from God’s word on personal level.
The key to discipleship with the new believer is simplicity. Just as you cannot give an infant steak and potatoes you cannot overload the new believer with information. Start out with the basics and progress from there. God’s revelation is progressive; He didn’t dump it all on us at once. We must be careful not to discourage the new believer with information overload.
Another important factor when disciplining the new believer is a commitment to stay true to the word of God. The danger with humans is our tendency to want people to see things our way. The new believer often looks at the discipler as the example of what he/she should be. Many times they will wear what you wear to church, purchase the same Bible you have, etc. We must be very careful not to transfer our own preferences and tastes to the one we are discipling. Remember that you are not the one causing growth in the new believer’s life, but rather it is God (I Cor. 3:8). You simply teach them what God’s word says and with the help of the Holy Spirit they will form their own convictions. We want the end result of our discipleship to be Christ followers not man followers.
Another important part of discipleship is accountability. The new believer can and will become frustrated easily. This is natural because he/she wants to grow but yet struggles with sin and other hindrances. In Galatians 6:2 we are told to “Bear one another's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." God did not create us to be independent but rather to be dependant on Him and our brothers and sisters in Christ. Wearing masks to hide our true self is a huge problem within Christianity today and there is nothing more detrimental to the growth of the believer. Scripture clearly teaches that we are all on a level playing field. The only thing that separates the believer and unbeliever is the grace of God. We have no right to look down on others or place ourselves above them simply because they struggle with something we do not.
Accountability is best accomplished in small groups, preferable of the same sex. Prayer and personal testimony should be part of each meeting as well as direct and pointed questions regarding ones life and spiritual walk. Confidentiality is vital for these groups to flourish.
Finally, discipleship should be an ongoing part of the believer’s life. As a believer grows in age as well as spiritual maturity is the duty of each one to disciple or come along side of those younger (Titus 2:2-8) and instruct them in all areas of life, not with an attitude of superiority but rather out of love and with a genuine desire to see the young believer grow, with the gospel in them (Col. 4:5-6)
Fellowship
Fellowship, which is derived from the Greek word koinonis, means “sharing”. Fellowship can only occur when believers are together. Fellowship in the early church involved meeting and sharing of physical possessions such as food as well as sharing spiritually with one another. God designed every human being to be deeply relational. Humans need other humans! Watch or listen to any talk show and you will see that people hunger for fulfilling relationships and the exciting thing is that we have the answer; a deep personal relationship with the true and loving God as well as the opportunity to become part of a family made up of followers of that God. When true and genuine fellowship is occurring within the local church the unbelieving world finds it irresistible.
Fellowship must go beyond scheduled service times. Genuine fellowship which causes the body to grow closer together (Eph. 4:15-16) must occur more than 1-2 times per week. The early church viewed the fellowship of the body as an oasis in the middle of a desert. Fellowship provides a source of love and encouragement in an unloving and discouraging world. We must make every effort to provide a sense of community within the body that not only edifies the believer but brings about a desire to participate within the unbeliever.
Service
If evangelism, discipleship and fellowship are equally balanced within the local church than the end result will be service. This kind of service is not forced but rather it springs forth out of a heart of gratitude. Through discipleship, accountability and fellowship he/she will begin to see the spiritual gifts they possess and will desire to use them to strengthen the body and to glorify God. It is important to understand that Christ is our ultimate example of what a servant is to be (John 12:14; Phil. 2:5-11). If we follow His example we will always be ready and willing to serve and a willingness to serve is a clear indication of a humble heart and proper attitude which God will honor.
It is important that the leadership of the church always look for new and creative opportunities for individuals to serve within the body. By encouraging every one within the body to use his/her gifts the individual and the church as a whole will become stronger (I Cor. 12:1-31). Within the discipleship process it is essential that the new believer understands that service within the body is not an option but rather a command of God. We must emphasize that God’s expectations for each believer is high.
These four purposes must all be fulfilled within the local church if it is to operate as designed by God. Christ Himself established the church and He is the head over it. We must always seek His guidance and direction in all things pertaining to His bride so that “…he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.” (Eph. 5:27). Amen
2 Purpose
Purpose and Vision
Purpose Statement
The purpose of Victory is to bring people into an intimate relationship with their Creator and Savior Jesus Christ by reaching out, growing within and serving everywhere.
The Vision of Victory Baptist Church
To be a local New Testament church, Biblically sound in its teaching but free in its form and function following the principles for the church laid down in the Word of God.
To provide sound Biblical preaching and teaching which is highly relevant and applicable to the body and it’s surrounding community.
To promote an atmosphere within the worship and preaching service which will focus all attention God ward.
To creatively introduce the local community to Christ using the God-given gifts and abilities of those within the church.
To purposely equip and encourage all members to multiply themselves through relational evangelism.
To consistently disciple and equip all believers in the Word of God.
To purposely provide an atmosphere which will promote close, personal fellowship among the believers.
To assist members in identifying and using their spiritual gifts and abilities to serve God and edify the body of Christ.
To purposely provide opportunities for all members to serve, and assimilate them into the ministry of the local church.
3 Strategy
Three Environments
Victory Baptist Church will utilize a strategy of three environments to bring people into an intimate relationship with their Creator and Savior Jesus Christ. These environments are simply the means by which we accomplish what we believe God has commanded us, as a local body of believers, to do which is; to reach out to our community, promote fellowship within the body, and equip believers for ministry.
The Foyer is a Place for Meeting
Our Sunday worship is our primary foyer environment. This is the “big” group at Victory. The foyer represents the first level of commitment within the family. Just like a foyer in the home it is a place where people are introduced and get acquainted. A person in the foyer should feel just as welcome here as they would in your home. This is the place where we, the Victory family, display the love and acceptance that Christ offers to all.
The person in the foyer is most likely…
- Searching for something (probably not sure for what they are searching).
- Seeking for stability for their family (help in marriage or child rearing).
- Seeking help (spiritual, emotional, etc).
- Visiting at the request of a friend or family member.
- Looking for a church family to identify with.
Our response to the person in the foyer
Our first and primary goal should be to establish relationships within the foyer. A person who feels welcomed is more likely to return and to respond. This must go beyond the typical Sunday morning greeting. This is the job of everyone within the Victory family not pre-selected greeters. The person must see that we have a genuine interest in them.
- Introduce yourself and take a personal interest in them and their family.
- Be warm and personable.
- Assist them in finding their way around. Never let them stand around wondering where they need to go. They should never have to ask for help.
- Offer to sit with them in the service.
* We would like to establish a “Sunday lunch” ministry at Victory. Families within this ministry would offer to take visiting families to lunch their first Sunday visiting Victory .
The Living Room is a Place for Growing
The living room is a place to settle in and build deeper relationships. The living room represents the “smaller group” at Victory. The person in the living room has moved beyond the foyer and is settling in and is becoming a part of the family. They now not only attend Sunday worship but are also involved, at some level, in a “community fellowship” and are attending membership meetings, and other classes offered at
Victory. The person in the living room is most likely a follower of Christ. If he/she has not become a believer in the foyer they most likely will do so in the living room.
Community Fellowships: groups of 20-30 people that meet once per month in for fellowship, encouragement and to build and strengthen relationships
The Kitchen is a Place for Serving
The kitchen is where the work is done. While this will most likely be the largest of the three environments it is considered the “smallest group” at Victory. The person in the kitchen not only faithfully attending Sunday worship and growth groups but is also a committed follower of Jesus Christ and actively involved in serving Him within the ministry at Victory. All persons in the kitchen are members of Victory and are involved in L.I.F.E*. (Living In Faith Everyday) groups as well as F.I.T.** (Faith In Training) classes. This is the place where in depth Bible study and spiritual growth is occurring. This is also from where the “one another” principles within the body of Christ are carried out.
The person in the kitchen is actively involved in ministering within all three environments at Victory.
*L.I.F.E. Groups: groups of 4-6 individuals or 5-6 married couples that meet in homes weekly for prayer, Bible study, and accountability.
**F.I.T. (Faith in Training) Classes: The purpose of these classes is to equip believers, through solid Biblical training, with the tools necessary to evangelize their community, teach others, and carry out discipleship within the body of Christ at Victory.
4 Statement of Faith
At Victory Baptist Church our beliefs are an important part of who we are and what we do. The following is an overview of the foundational truths upon which Victory is built.
The Bible
We believe the Bible is God’s written revelation to man. It is verbally inspired in every word and inerrant in the original autographs (manuscripts). The word of God is infallible, sufficient for all things, and is our final and sole authority in all matters.
2 Timothy 1:13; 3:16 2 Peter 1:20-21 Psalm 119:105, 160; 12:6 Proverbs 30:5
God
We believe there only one, living and true God, an infinite, all knowing Spirit. He is perfect in all His attributes, one in essence, eternally existing in three co-equal persons; the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Genesis 1:1, 26, 27, 3:222; 2 Corinthians 13:14; 1 Peter 1:2; Matthew 28:19;
Psalm 90:2
Jesus Christ
We believe that Jesus Christ is God's Son. He is co-equal with the Father. He is fully God and fully man. He was born of a virgin, lived a sinless human life, performed miracles, and offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of His people by dying on a cross. He died to become a substitutionary atonement for the sins of His people. He arose from the dead after three days to demonstrate His power over sin and death. He ascended to Heaven’s glory and will return again someday to earth to reign as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
Matthew 1:22-23; 1 Timothy 6:14-15; Romans 1:3-4; Hebrews 4:14-15; Isaiah 9:6; Titus 2:13; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4; John 1:1-5; 14:10-30
The Holy Spirit
We believe the Holy Spirit is co-equal with the Father and the Son of God. He is the divine helper, assistant, counselor and instructor. He is present in the world to make mankind aware of their need for Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit baptizes all believers into the Body of Christ at the moment of salvation. The Holy Spirit also indwells, sanctifies, instructs, empowers them for service, and seals them unto the day of redemption. He provides the Christian with power of living, understanding of spiritual truth, and guidance in doing what is right. He gives every believer a spiritual gift when they are saved. As Christians, we seek to live under His control daily.
2 Corinthians 3:17; Acts 1:8; Ephesians 1:13; Ephesians 5:18; John 16:7-13; 14:16-27; 1 Corinthians 2:12; 3:16; Galatians 5:25
Mankind
We believe that mankind has been created in the image of God and possesses intellect, emotion, and will. As the supreme object of God’s creation, we were designed for dignity and fellowship with Him. However, Adam’s sin sent all of creation into a fallen state, and plunged all his descendants into depravity. Thus, everyone, without exception, is marred by willful rebellion and disobedience toward God, which is called “sin.” As a result, man is totally incapable of regaining a right relationship with God through his own efforts.
Genesis 1:27 Psalm 8:3-6 Romans 3:23 Isaiah 53:6a; 59:1-2
Salvation
We believe that salvation is God’s free gift to us. We receive this gift through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ alone. Repentance means turning away from our sin and turning towards Christ. Faith means trusting in Christ alone for the forgiveness of our sins. When we place our faith in Jesus Christ, His perfect obedience is credited to us so that God sees us as the righteousness of Christ. Every person who truly is saved will spend eternity in heaven, while those who die in a place spoken of by Jesus called hell.
Romans 6:23 Titus 3:5 John 14:6, 1:12 Galatians 3:26 Ephesians 2:8-9 Romans 5:1
Security of the Believer
God gives us eternal life through Jesus Christ. If you have made a genuine commitment of faith in Jesus, you cannot lose your salvation. Salvation is maintained by the grace and power of God alone, not by any self-effort of the Christian. Salvation is through God’s grace and power and is that same grace and power that enables the believer to persevere in faith until the end.
John 10:29 Ephesians 2:1-10 1 Peter 1:3-5 Hebrews 7:25; 10:10, 14 2 Timothy 1:12
5 Goals
Future Ministry Goals
Build a Building that would provide space to do the following:
Children’s Ministry
Community Youth Ministry
Singles Ministry
Single Parent Ministry
Marriage Ministry
Prison Ministry
Needs Ministry for the “Down and Out”
Home/Foreign Missions Training Center
Adult Bible Training Center
Hispanic Outreach
Community Outreach Ministry