WHAT WE BELIEVE
Our core beliefs are rooted in Scripture and centered on the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
The Trinity
United Methodists affirm belief in the one God, who is revealed as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. These three persons are distinct yet inseparably united, eternally sharing one divine essence. The Trinity is central to Christian faith and life, manifesting God's love, power, and active presence in creation, redemption, and ongoing sanctification.
Jesus Christ
United Methodists teach that Jesus Christ is God's only Son, fully divine and fully human, and the ultimate revelation of God's love. Through His life, death on the cross, and resurrection, Jesus reconciles humanity to God, offering forgiveness and the promise of new and eternal life. Christ is the living Lord who continues to guide, intercede for, and strengthen the Church and every believer.
Salvation
Salvation in United Methodist teaching is a gift of God's grace, available to all people and accepted by faith. It includes pardon from sin, new birth by the Holy Spirit, and growing in holiness—often described as sanctification—through the ongoing work of grace. Methodists emphasize that salvation is both personal and social, leading believers to love God and neighbor, and to participate in the healing of the world.
The Bible
United Methodists regard the Bible as the inspired Word of God and the primary authority for Christian faith and practice. Scripture is to be interpreted within the context of the Church's tradition, experience, and reason, reflecting Wesley's "Wesleyan Quadrilateral." Through the Scriptures, God speaks, guides, and shapes the lives of believers today.
The Church
The United Methodist Church is part of the worldwide body of Christ and is called to worship God, nurture disciples, celebrate sacraments, and serve others in love. The Church is a community where people are invited to grow in faith and holiness, and it actively seeks to transform the world through acts of justice, mercy, and peace.
Second Coming
United Methodists affirm the Christian hope that Christ will come again to judge the living and the dead, bringing God's reign of justice and peace to fulfillment. This promised return inspires believers to live with expectancy, serve faithfully, and participate in God's mission of love and transformation in the world.