Church Of The Nazarene Beliefs

Understanding the Beliefs of the Church of the Nazarene: A Comprehensive Guide

The Church of the Nazarene is a Protestant denomination known for its emphasis on scriptural holiness, its global reach, and its commitment to evangelism. Understanding its beliefs requires looking beyond simple summaries, delving into its core doctrines and exploring how they shape the lives of its members. This comprehensive guide aims to provide a clear and detailed explanation of the Church of the Nazarene's foundational tenets, addressing key aspects of its theology and practice. This exploration will cover its origins, key beliefs, and its distinctive approach to Christian living.

A Brief History: From Holiness Movement to Global Church

The Church of the Nazarene's roots lie in the late 19th and early 20th-century Holiness Movement, a revival within Protestantism emphasizing a life consecrated to God, characterized by personal holiness and social justice. Several independent holiness churches coalesced, finding common ground in their shared convictions. This led to the formal organization of the Church of the Nazarene in 1908, with the unification of various holiness groups in Pilot Point, Texas. From its humble beginnings, the Church of the Nazarene experienced remarkable growth, expanding globally and establishing itself as a significant force in international Christianity. This global presence significantly shapes its understanding of cultural contexts and its approach to mission work.

Core Doctrines: The Foundation of Nazarene Belief

The Church of the Nazarene's theology rests upon a foundation of scripture, emphasizing the authority and inerrancy of the Bible. Its sixteen articles of faith provide a concise yet comprehensive summary of its core beliefs. These articles are not merely statements of belief; they are the guiding principles that shape every aspect of Nazarene life, from worship to social engagement. Let's explore some of the key doctrines:

1. The Trinity: One God in Three Persons

Nazarenes affirm the doctrine of the Trinity—the belief in one God eternally existing in three co-equal, co-eternal persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. This foundational belief underpins their understanding of God's nature and His relationship with humanity. The Trinity is not merely a theological concept; it's the bedrock of their worship, prayer, and understanding of salvation.

2. The Deity of Christ: Fully God and Fully Man

The Church of the Nazarene strongly affirms the full deity and full humanity of Jesus Christ. He is both true God and true man, existing without division or confusion. This belief is crucial to their understanding of the atonement—Christ's sacrificial death on the cross as a complete payment for the sins of humanity. His incarnation, life, death, and resurrection are central to Nazarene theology and are celebrated throughout the liturgical year.

3. The Holy Spirit: The Empowering Presence

The Holy Spirit is acknowledged as a distinct person of the Trinity, actively involved in the lives of believers. Nazarenes emphasize the importance of the Spirit's work in conviction, conversion, sanctification, and empowerment for service. The baptism in the Holy Spirit, often accompanied by speaking in tongues (glossolalia), is a significant experience for many Nazarenes, seen as empowering them for Christian living and witness. This experience is understood as a distinct event from conversion, further emphasizing the Spirit’s continuing role in Christian discipleship.

4. Salvation: Grace Through Faith

Salvation is understood as a free gift of God's grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ. This emphasis on grace doesn't diminish the importance of repentance and obedience, but it highlights the initiative of God in offering salvation. Nazarenes believe that salvation is a process, beginning with conversion and continuing throughout a believer's life. This ongoing process involves sanctification, a progressive work of the Holy Spirit in conforming a believer's life to the image of Christ.

5. Sanctification: Holiness of Life

Sanctification is a central theme in Nazarene theology, representing the ongoing process of becoming more Christ-like. This involves not only avoiding sin but also actively pursuing holiness in all aspects of life. It's understood as a cooperative work—God’s grace empowers believers to live holy lives, and their response involves intentional obedience and dedication to God's will. This pursuit of holiness is not viewed as a means to earn salvation but as a response to the transformative grace already received.

6. The Church: The Body of Christ

The Church is seen as the body of Christ, a community of believers united in faith and fellowship. Nazarenes emphasize the importance of local church participation, believing it's essential for spiritual growth and mutual support. The church is not simply a building but a living organism, empowered by the Holy Spirit and actively engaged in mission and ministry. This understanding highlights the importance of community, mutual accountability, and service within the church.

7. Ordinances: Baptism and Communion

Two key ordinances are observed: baptism and communion (the Lord's Supper). Baptism by immersion is practiced as a public declaration of faith and obedience to Christ. Communion is celebrated regularly, commemorating Christ's sacrifice and renewing the covenant relationship with God. These ordinances are not merely rituals but are significant expressions of faith and participation in the life of the church.

8. The Second Coming of Christ: Hope and Expectation

The return of Christ is a central element of Nazarene eschatology (the study of last things). They believe in the imminent and literal return of Christ, anticipating his coming as a blessed hope and a motivating factor for evangelism and living a life of holiness. This expectation shapes their perspective on the present, urging them to live in light of Christ's return.

The Nazarene Way of Life: Holiness in Practice

The beliefs described above are not simply theoretical concepts; they shape the practical lives of Nazarene members. Their commitment to holiness is reflected in various aspects of their lives:

• Personal Devotion: Daily Bible study, prayer, and personal communion with God are emphasized.
• Moral Integrity: A high standard of moral conduct is expected, based on biblical principles. This includes abstaining from alcohol, tobacco, and other substances considered harmful.
• Social Justice: The Church of the Nazarene is actively involved in social justice initiatives, seeking to address issues of poverty, injustice, and inequality. This commitment stems from their understanding of God's love and compassion for all people.
• Global Mission: Evangelism and missions are central to their identity. The church actively supports missionaries around the world, spreading the Gospel and serving those in need.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the difference between the Church of the Nazarene and other holiness churches?

A: While sharing roots in the Holiness Movement, the Church of the Nazarene distinguishes itself through its formal structure, global organization, and emphasis on a specific set of doctrinal statements. While many holiness traditions hold similar beliefs, the Church of the Nazarene presents a unified and organized approach.

Q: Are Nazarenes strict?

A: The Church of the Nazarene emphasizes holiness of life, which may lead to certain lifestyle choices different from those of some other denominations. However, the emphasis is on a loving relationship with God and a life lived in obedience to his commands rather than a rigid set of rules.

Q: Do all Nazarenes speak in tongues?

A: While the baptism in the Holy Spirit, sometimes accompanied by speaking in tongues (glossolalia), is emphasized, it's not a requirement for membership or full participation in the church. The focus is on a personal relationship with God and a life lived in obedience to his will.

Q: How involved is the Church of the Nazarene in global missions?

A: The Church of the Nazarene has a strong global mission presence, supporting missionaries and engaging in various outreach programs worldwide. This commitment to global missions is a significant aspect of their identity and reflects their belief in spreading the Gospel and serving those in need across the globe.

Conclusion: A Living Faith for Today

The Church of the Nazarene offers a rich and compelling expression of Christian faith. Its core beliefs, rooted in scripture and shaped by the Holiness Movement, provide a framework for a life dedicated to God and service to others. Its global presence and emphasis on mission demonstrate a commitment to spreading the Gospel and making a difference in the world. This dynamic denomination continues to adapt to modern contexts while holding steadfast to its foundational beliefs, offering a path of faith for a diverse range of individuals and communities worldwide. Understanding its beliefs requires a holistic approach, appreciating both the doctrinal foundations and the practical implications of living a life committed to holiness.