FUTURE EVENTS

We believe that this present age is rapidly coming to a close. We believe that God will intervene in human affairs in judgment upon an ungodly world and a faithless church in a period called the "Great Tribulation."

Before this tribulation begins, all true believers will be taken out of the world supernaturally at the coming of the Lord in the clouds. This is called the "rapture of the church." It includes the resurrection of the "dead in Christ," as well as the translation of those believers who are alive at His coming. (I Thessalonians 4:13-18; Romans 8:23; Titus 2:13)

We believe in a final judgment for the wicked dead, who will be raised and judged - according to their works. (Matthew 25:46; Revelation 19:29; 20:11-15)


ETERNAL LIFE

Eternal life was purchased for us by the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ on the cross. We can be restored to a right relationship with God and receive eternal life by:

Repenting of all our past sins (deeds that are not according to God's will).

Placing our trust in Christ for eternal life, instead of good works.

Receiving Christ into our lives. Each person must make the decision to receive the gift of eternal life for themselves. (Romans 5:12-21; Ephesians 2:8)

DIVINE HEALING

Healing from sickness is provided for us in the atoning work of Christ, and is available to all believers. (Isaiah 53:4,5; James 5:14-16).

BAPTISM IN THE HOLY SPIRIT

We believe all Christians are commanded to seek the baptism in the Holy Spirit. This was the normal experience of the early Christians. The baptism in the Holy Spirit is accompanied by the physical evidence of speaking in other tongues.

Spiritual evidence of this experience include the receiving of power for service and witnessing (Acts 1:8); a deepened reverence for God (Acts 2:43); intensified commitment to God and dedication to His work (Acts 4:42); and the gifts and fruit of the Spirit (I Corinthians 12-14; Galatians 5 20-23)

ORDINANCES

We observe the Lord's Supper monthly in our church. This is an open communion in which all believers present are invited to participate. We also practice water baptism by immersion as the outward sign and testimony of the Christian to the inner work of the Spirit. We do not baptize infants, but parents are encouraged to dedicate children to the Lord in a worship service.

WORSHIP

We believe that God is worthy of worship and praise. At Riverside Assembly everyone is encouraged to express themselves in worship. (Psalm 103:1)

PRAYER

We believe that God works miracles in our lives as we pray. (Mark 11:24)

SPIRITUAL GIFTS

We believe in and encourage the manifestations of the gifts of the Spirit in our lives. (I Corinthians 12:4-11)

MINISTRY OF THE WORD

We believe that the Bible is true and relevant for today. It has the power to change our lives. (Hebrews 4:12)

FELLOWSHIP

We believe that the Body of Christ should meet together regularly. Fellowship provides opportunity for mutual encouragement and spiritual growth.