We Believe

Wilmington Bible Chapel is the meeting of an assembly of Christians who desire to meet according to the New Testament pattern for a local church, gathering in the name of the Lord Jesus alone. This assembly is not affiliated with any denomination and is subject only to the Word of God.

The reason for this non-denominational stand is a sincere desire to preach and practice all that God has revealed in His Word for His people during this present age. There is no desire to separate from other true believers, but from those things that are contrary to the will and Word of God. Thus a clean scriptural fellowship is pursued where all true Christians may enjoy their spiritual privileges and assume their responsibilities.

Since the early church was satisfied to meet in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we recognize no other name.

We believe Christ, the head of the church, left two ordinances for His people during this age. These are to be faithfully practiced during His absence: Baptism by immersion for true believers upon their confession of faith in Him (Matt.28:19; Acts 8:36-39; 18:8; Rom.6:1-5); The Breaking of Bread each first day of the week in remembrance of the Lord (Matt.26:26-28; Acts 2:42; 20:7; I Cor.11:23-26). To the Lord's Table we welcome all who are truly born again, clean in life and sound in doctrine.

We accept the authority of all scripture, believe the Bible to be wholly inspired by God, and preach the soul-saving Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. We believe that Christ died for our sins, was buried and raised the third day for our justification and offers eternal life to whomsoever will. "...the gift of God is eternal life through our Lord Jesus Christ" (Rom.6:23). We are missionary minded and help support numerous missionaries at home and on the foreign field.

We believe the local church is to be governed by a plurality of Elders raised up by the Holy Spirit, in contrast to a humanly-ordained, salaried minister. We believe that Christ as risen head of the church, gives gifts necessary for the ministry of His Word and the preaching of the Gospel. These servants of Christ are called, equipped, directed, and supported by Him. (Acts 13:1-4; I Cor.12; Eph.4:7-16; II John 7)

We believe in the priesthood of all believers, whereby all are free, as led by the Spirit of God, to worship the Father through Jesus Christ the Son. (I Pet.2:5; Heb.10:19-22)

We believe that scripture teaches that Christian men are responsible for exercising authority and leadership in the local church in (or by) administration, preaching, praying, or teaching. However, we fully believe that Christian women may also serve in these capacities among children and other women. (I Cor.14:34-35; Tim.2:11-12)

We believe it to be unscriptural for Christian women to appear in church gatherings without a head covering. (I Cor.11:1-16)

We believe, based on the love of Christ and the exercise of the Holy Spirit in the setting aside of the Lord's portion, and the liberal supporting of the Lord's servants and service through the free-will offerings of God's people, both collectively and individually. This collection is taken weekly as part of worship during the Lord's Supper. (I Cor.9:14; 16:1-2; II Cor.9)