What do we believe?
The Rochdale Reformed Congregation aims to stand in dependence on the Lord on the solid foundation of the Word of God. Based on the Bible. The Three Forms of Unity are our doctrinal standards:
- The Belgic Confession of Faith (by Guido De Bres)
- The Heidelberg Catechism (by Zacharias Ursinus and Casper Olevianus)
- The Canons of Dordt adopted by the Synod of Dordt (1618-1619)
God
God exists as one being in three distinct persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. He is unchanging in His attributes and is the sovereign Creator, Savior, and Judge who governs everything for His glory.
The Bible
God has revealed Himself through the Bible, comprising the Old and New Testaments. The Bible is considered the inspired, error-free Word of God, fully authoritative and sufficient for all beliefs and practices.
The Ten Commandments
The Ten Commandments represent God’s holy law and are the standard for living according to His will. They emphasize reverence for God’s Name, sanctification of the Sabbath, authority, protection of life, and marriage. In cases where these commandments conflict with modern views, they are defended based on Scripture.
The Human Race
Humans were created in God’s image but fell into sin, resulting in total corruption and spiritual death. This original sin makes everyone guilty and in need of rebirth, forgiveness, and reconciliation with God.
The Lord Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ is fully God and fully man, born of a virgin, and lived a sinless life. He died for sinners, rose from the dead, and ascended into heaven, where He intercedes for believers as Lord of all.
Redemption
God has chosen certain people for redemption through Christ, a process entirely driven by His grace. Salvation is offered to all through the gospel, with faith in Christ leading to justification, adoption into God’s family, and eternal life, while others remain in their sin.
The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit was sent to glorify Christ and execute His work of salvation, creating true faith in the elect and uniting them with Christ. He transforms believers by convicting them of sin and fostering a new, Christ-like life.
Baptism and the Lord’s Supper
Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are instituted by Christ as visible signs of the gospel. Baptism symbolizes union with Christ and entry into the Church but does not confer spiritual life, while the Lord’s Supper commemorates Christ’s sacrifice and the blessings are received through faith.