Core Values
What We Believe
The Bible
We believe that the Bible is the inspired word of God. It is the supreme source of truth for Christian beliefs and living, and the final authority for all matters of faith. (Ps. 119:105; 2 Tim. 3:16; 2 Peter 1:19-21)
God
We believe that there is one true God, the creator and ruler of the universe, who eternally exists in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. (Gen. 1:26-27; Ps. 90:2; Matt. 28:19; John 1:1, 14; 1 Peter 1:2; Cor. 13:14)
Salvation
We believe that human beings' central purpose for existence is to have a close and personal relationship with God. Originally created for that purpose, humans defied God, choosing to go their own independent way, and were thus alienated from God. This "Fall" took place at the beginning of human history, and all individuals since have suffered these consequences are in need of God's forgiveness and mercy. A person can be forgiven by God and have that close, personal relationship restored by believing that Jesus is God's Son, repenting of sin, confessing that Jesus is Lord, and being immersed for the forgiveness of sins. (John 3:16; Acts 2:38; 3:19; Rom. 6:23; 10:9; Eph. 2:8.9)
The Holy Spirit
We believe the Holy Spirit is equal with the Father and the Son of God. The Holy Spirit provides power to overcome sin, insight into Scripture, and personal directions in life. All believers are given the gift of the Holy Spirit at conversion, and through the Holy Spirit's presence and power are enabled to attain spiritual maturity in Christ. Through the Holy Spirit each person in the body is given certain gifts to use in ministry. (Lk. 11:13; John 16:13; Acts 1:8; Rom. 8:11)
Jesus
We believe that Jesus was God's only begotten Son, was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, voluntarily died on the cross for our sins, and was bodily raised from the dead. He ascended into heaven and now sits at the right hand of the Father and acts as an intermediary on our behalf. One day Jesus will return to earth and initiate the consummation of human history. (John 1:1-18; Acts 2:22-41; Phil. 2:1-11)
Human Destiny
We believe that everyone will live forever after they die. Where one spends eternity will depend on what they do with Jesus. For all humankind there will be a resurrection into the spiritual world and a judgment that will determine the fate of each individual. Because unbelievers have rejected Jesus, they will be separated from His presence for all eternity in hell. Believers will be received into heaven to be with God for all eternity. (John 3:36; Rev. 20-22)
The Lord's Supper
We believe the Lord's Supper or Communion should be practiced weekly, according to the example of the New Testament church. The purpose is three-fold: to remind the church of Jesus' sacrifice, to proclaim Christ's death until He comes, and promote honest self-examination within the church. (Acts 2:46; 20:7; 1 Cor. 11:23-34)
Church Governance
Orrville Christian Church is a non-denominational Christian church that is led by leaders from within its own congregation, not an outside demoninational office or headquarters. OCC is loosely associated with a fellowship of over 5,500 similar evangelical churches nationwise called "Independent Christian Churches" claiming over 1.5 million members in the United States alone. Independent Christian Church is among the fastest growing churches in the United States and combine their efforts at different times to support church planting organizations, cross-cultural missionaries, benevolent associations and over 30 Christian Colleges and Seminaries.