PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES

We will demonstrate our commitment to Christ by practicing the spiritual disciplines. We will demonstrate our dedication to the body of Christ by being loyal to God and His Church and to Christ's work by being good stewards. 

Practicing the Spiritual Disciplines

The spiritual disciplines involve practices such as prayer, praise, worship, confession, meditation, fasting, and Bible study. Through prayer, we express our trust in Jehovah God, the giver of all good things, and acknowledge our dependence on Him for our needs and those of others (Matthew 6:5-15; Luke 11:1-13; James 5:13-18). Through worship, both public and private, we praise God, fellowship with Him, are enriched in the Spirit, and grow in grace daily. Through fasting, we can draw closer to God, meditate on the passion of Jesus Christ, and discipline ourselves to live under the control of the Holy Spirit in all aspects of our lives (Matthew 6:16-18; 9:14-17; Acts 14:23). By confessing our sins to God, we are assured of divine forgiveness (1 John 1:9-2:2). By confessing our faults before other believers, we can solicit their prayers and help each other bear our burdens (Galatians 6:2; James 5:16). Through meditation and study of God's Word, we strengthen our spiritual growth and prepare ourselves to guide and instruct others in biblical truths (Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:2; 2 Timothy 2:15, 23-26). 

Loyalty to God and Dedication to the Church

The life of Christian discipleship involves fulfilling our duties to the body of Christ. We are to meet regularly with other members to magnify and praise God and hear His Word (Matthew 18:20; John 4:23; Acts 2:42, 46-47; 12:24; Hebrews 10:25). Sunday is the Christian day of worship. As the Lord’s Day, Sunday commemorates Christ’s resurrection from the dead (Matthew 28:1) and is to be used primarily for worship, fellowship, Christian service, teaching, evangelism, and proclaiming the Word (Acts 20:7; Romans 14:5-6; 1 Corinthians 16:2; Colossians 2:16-17). We are to provide for the financial needs of the Church with our tithes (Malachi 3:10; Matthew 23:23) and offerings (1 Corinthians 16:2; 2 Corinthians 8:1-24; 9:1-15). It is our duty to respect and submit to those whom the Lord has placed over us in the church (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13; Hebrews 13:7, 17). When we exercise authority, we will do so as spiritual examples, not as owners and lords of Christ's flock (Matthew 20:25-28; 1 ​​Peter 5:1-3). Furthermore, our submission is to be a manifestation of the spiritual grace of humility (Ephesians 5:21; 1 Peter 5:5-6). Finally, we are to avoid membership in societies that require or practice oaths. Such societies may appear spiritual, but in reality, by requiring an oath and being secret, they contradict Christian spirituality (John 18:20; 2 Corinthians 6:14-18). Christians should not belong to any body or society that requires or practices loyalty that is above or excludes their fellowship with others in Christ (Matthew 12:47-49; John 17:21-23). ​​

Good Christian Stewardship

The virtues of thrift and simplicity are honorable, but Scripture solemnly forbids waste and display (Isaiah 55:2; Matthew 6:19-23). ​​Godly and sober living requires the wise and frugal use of our temporal blessings, including time, talent, and money. As good stewards, we are to make the most of our time, both for leisure and for work (Ephesians 5:16; Colossians 4:5). The misuse of free time degrades us (1 Timothy 5:13; 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13); but when we use it constructively, we experience an inner renewal. All our work and play should bring honor to God's name (1 Corinthians 10:31). As good stewards, we are to use well our spiritual gifts (Romans 12:3-8; 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, 27-31; Ephesians 4:11-16; 1 Peter 4:9-11) as well as our natural talents (Matthew 25:14-30) for the glory of God. As good stewards, we recognize that the wise use of money is an essential part of the economy of a Christian's life. God has entrusted temporal blessings to us for our care (Matthew 7:11; James 1:17).

Demostraremos nuestro compromiso con Cristo al poner en práctica las disciplinas espirituales; demostraremos nuestra dedicación al cuerpo de Cristo siendo leales a Dios y a su Iglesia y a la obra de Cristo al ser buenos administradores.

We will engage in every activity that glorifies God in our bodies and avoid gratifying the desires of the flesh. We will read, watch, and listen to everything that is beneficial to our spiritual life.

We are to glorify God in our bodies

Our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit, so we are to use them for the glory of God (Romans 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 10:31). We are to walk in the Spirit and not gratify the desires of the flesh (Galatians 5:16). The Scriptures in various places present examples of carnal behavior that does not glorify God (Romans 1:24; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Galatians 5:19-21; Revelation 21:8). The most prominent sinful practices mentioned in these passages include homosexuality, adultery, worldly attitudes (such as hatred, envy, and jealousy), corrupt communication (such as gossip, angry emotions, and profanity), theft, murder, drunkenness, and witchcraft. Witchcraft refers to occult practices that are prohibited by God and lead to the worship of Satan. 

What We Read, Watch, and Listen to

The literature we read, the programs we watch, and the music we listen to will profoundly affect our feelings, thoughts, and behavior. It is imperative, therefore, that Christians read, watch, and listen to things that inspire, instruct, and challenge them to a higher moral standard. On the other hand, we should avoid literature, programs, and music with worldly content and pornographic nature. A Christian should not watch movies or plays in the theater (or on television) that are immoral in nature (Romans 13:14; Philippians 4:8).

Promoting Spiritual Well-being

Christians should spend their free time in activities that build up both the individual and the body of Christ (Romans 6:13; 1 Corinthians 10:31-32). We should avoid worldly practices and places. Likewise, they should not participate in any type of entertainment that appeals to the carnal nature and discredits the Christian witness (2 Corinthians 6:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22; 1 John 2:15-17).

We will live a life that inspires accountability and trust, that produces the fruit of the Spirit and manifests the character of Christ in all our conduct. 

Accountability and Trust

The Christian must be trustworthy in his word (Matthew 5:37; I Peter 2:11-12). Swearing is contrary to the trustworthiness of the Christian, therefore, it should be avoided (Matthew 5:34-37; James 5:12). Christ taught, by precept and example, that we should love our enemies and prefer our neighbors (Matthew 5:43-48; Romans 12:10; Philippians 2:3; I John 3:16). We must behave in such a way that our conduct leads others to Christ (Matthew 5:16; I Corinthians 11:1).

Fruit of the Spirit

If we live in the Spirit, we will manifest the fruit (attitudes and actions) of the Spirit and will not gratify the desires of the flesh (Galatians 5:16, 22-25; 1 John 1:7). Good relationships with others are the natural result of our positive relationship with the Lord (Psalm 1:1-3; Matthew 22:37-40). We will be judged by the lack of fruit in our lives (Matthew 7:16-20; Luke 13:6-9; John 15:1-8).

The Character of Christ

The hallmark of life in Christ is love for others (John 13:34-35; 15:9-13; 1 John 4:7-11). In His relationship with the Father, Jesus demonstrated submission (Luke 22:42; John 4:34; 5:30). In His relationships with others, He demonstrated acceptance (John 8:11), compassion (Matthew 9:36; Mark 6:34), and forgiveness (Matthew 9:2; Luke 5:20). We cannot bear the fruit of the Spirit and manifest the character of Christ unless we are spiritually united to Him (John 15:4-5) and have the seed of the Word planted in our hearts (John 15:3; 1 Peter 1:22-23).

We will give priority to fulfilling family responsibilities, preserving the sanctity of marriage, and maintaining biblical order in the home.

The Priority of the Family

The family is the basic unit of human relationships and as such is indispensable, both for society and for the Church (Genesis 2:18-24). The divine origin of the family and its institutional character require that it be ministered to with priority, both from a personal and collective point of view. The practice of Christian disciplines and virtues must begin in the home (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). Therefore, the Christian family must establish a plan for the celebration of worship and foster a Christian atmosphere in the home (I Timothy 3:3-4; 5:8). 

The Sanctity of Marriage

Marriage is ordained by God and is an act of spiritual union in which a man and a woman come together to live as one flesh (Genesis 2:24; Mark 10:7). Because of its divine nature, marriage is a lifelong commitment, and fornication is the only biblical concession for divorce (Matthew 5:32; 19:9). The Bible strictly forbids sexual relations, whether before marriage or with someone other than one's spouse (Exodus 20:14; 1 Corinthians 6:15-18). To achieve sanctity in marriage, spouses should strive to maintain a pleasurable, harmonious, and holy relationship. If a divorce occurs, the Church should be ready to offer love, understanding, and guidance to those affected. Remarriage for divorced persons may only take place after a full understanding of and submission to the biblical instructions regarding this matter (Matthew 19:7-9; Mark 10:2-12; Luke 16:18; Romans 7:2-3; I Corinthians 7:2, 10-11). If a Christian wishes to remain single, his or her decision should be respected and viewed as a biblical choice (I Corinthians 7:8, 32-34). 

Divine Order in the Home

When God created human beings, He created them male and female (Genesis 1:27). He endowed them with distinct characteristics (I Corinthians 11:14-15; I Peter 3:7) and responsibilities (Genesis 3:16-19; I Peter 3:1-7). In the biblical order, the husband is the head of the home (Ephesians 5:22-31; Colossians 3:18-19), parents are to raise and discipline their children (Ephesians 6:4; Colossians 3:21), and children are to obey and honor their parents (Exodus 20:12; Ephesians 6:1-3; Colossians 3:20). For there to be harmony in the home, the biblical order of responsibilities must be observed.

We will demonstrate the biblical principle of modesty by dressing and appearing in a way that enhances our Christian witness and avoids pride, presumption, and sensuality. 

Modesty

According to the biblical concept, modesty is an internal, spiritual grace that avoids all that appears indecent and impure. It is clean in thought and conduct and does not act crudely or indecently in dress or behavior (Ephesians 4:25-29, 31; 5:1-8; 1 Timothy 2:9-10). Therefore, modesty includes appearance, conduct, dress, and speech and can be applied to all situations. The essential point is: Do we please or displease God with our lifestyle? 

Appearance and Dress

Our life, character, and self-concept are reflected in our appearance and dress. The biblical admonition “do not be conformed to this world” reminds us that our dress should be modest and decent in every way (Romans 12:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:22-23). ​​God is pleased when we dress and groom ourselves well. However, we should above all pursue spiritual beauty, which comes not from outward adornment with jewels, clothes, and expensive cosmetics, but from good works, pure speech, and a gentle and quiet spirit (Philippians 4:8; 1 Peter 3:3-5). 

Pride, Presumption, and Sensuality

As holy people, we are to abstain from all lust of the flesh and avoid any clothing that provokes immoral thoughts, attitudes, and lifestyles (Galatians 5:13-21; 1 Peter 2:11; 2 Peter 1:4). Our beauty does not depend on ostentatious clothing, extravagant and expensive attire, or the use of jewelry and cosmetics, but on our relationship with Christ. External adornment, whether clothing or jewelry, as an outward demonstration of personal worth, is contrary to our spiritual attitude (James 2:1-4).

Our goal will be to fulfill our obligations to society by being good citizens, correcting social injustices, and protecting the sanctity of life. Being Good Citizens 

As Christians, we are members of God’s kingdom, as well as members of the society of this world. Obedience to God requires us to act responsibly as citizens of our countries (Mark 12:13-17; Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-17). Therefore, we should support law and civil order; respect and pray for our leaders; participate in school, community, and government activities; exercise our right to vote; and express ourselves on clearly defined moral issues. God’s law is supreme, but we should obey the laws of our country as long as they do not conflict with obedience to God (Acts 5:29). When it is necessary to disagree with government practices and requirements, we should do so out of a concern for promoting justice, not a desire to disagree and engage in controversy. 

Correcting Social Injustice 

Love for others and the recognition that all people are equal in God's sight (Acts 10:34; 17:26) should motivate us to do something to improve the situation of the less privileged, the abandoned, the hungry, the homeless, and the victims of prejudice, persecution, and oppression (Matthew 22:39; Romans 13:8-10; I John 3:17). In all our relationships we should be sensitive to human needs (Luke 10:30-37; James 1:17) and avoid racial and economic discrimination. Everyone should be free to worship and participate in the life of the church, regardless of race, color, sex, social class, or nationality. 

Protecting the Integrity of Life

Life is something that only God gives (Genesis 1:1-31); therefore, we are responsible before the Creator to care for our own and that of others. If circumstances require it, we should be willing to make any sacrifice to serve others (John 15:13); but the general rule is that we respect our life and use all possible means to preserve it. God is the only one who gives life and only He decides when it should end (Psalm 31:14-15). Since a human fetus is sacred and blessed by God, we have the responsibility to protect the life of those who have not yet been born (Jeremiah 1:5; Luke 1:41). It is our firm conviction that abortion, euthanasia (death caused to the elderly, mentally handicapped, terminally ill, or incompetent in any way), for reasons of personal convenience, social adaptation, or economic advantage, are morally wrong.​ Furthermore, we believe it is our Christian responsibility to care for the Earth and its resources. In the beginning, God gave humankind dominion over the Earth (Genesis 1:26-30), but this does not give us the right to pollute our environment or waste its natural resources.