Bible Study: What Are the Core Beliefs of the Assemblies of God?
- Boundless Team
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
The Assemblies of God (AG) is a Pentecostal fellowship rooted in the Bible. We believe in one God in three persons, salvation through Jesus Christ, the baptism in the Holy Spirit, divine healing, and the imminent return of Christ. These truths guide how we live, worship, and serve others.
If you’ve ever stepped into a service at First Assembly Memphis or joined us digitally through Boundless Online Church, you might have noticed a particular kind of energy. It’s a mix of deep reverence for the Word of God and a vibrant, expectant hope in the work of the Holy Spirit today. But where does that come from? What exactly do we believe?
Understanding our foundations isn’t just for theologians or pastors; it’s for anyone who wants to know the "why" behind the "what." Whether you are a brand-new believer in the 901 area or a global seeker looking for spiritual clarity, this guide will walk you through the core convictions that make us who we are.
The Foundation: The 16 Fundamental Truths
The Assemblies of God adheres to a set of "16 Fundamental Truths." These aren't meant to replace the Bible; rather, they are a summary of what the Bible teaches about the most important aspects of our faith.
While all 16 are vital, four are considered our Cardinal Doctrines. These four are the "north stars" of our ministry:
Salvation
Baptism in the Holy Spirit
Divine Healing
The Second Coming of Christ
Let’s dive into these and the other key pillars of our faith.
1. The Bible is Our Final Authority
We believe the Bible, both the Old and New Testaments, is the inspired Word of God. It isn't just a historical document or a book of good advice. It is the infallible rule of faith and conduct. This means when we face a decision or a cultural shift, we look to the Scriptures first.
Definition Block: Biblical Inspiration
The belief that God, through the Holy Spirit, guided human authors to write the Scriptures, ensuring that the original texts are the authoritative and trustworthy Word of God for all generations.
2. The Nature of God and Jesus Christ
We believe in the one true God who has revealed Himself as the eternally self-existent “I AM.” He exists in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This is often called the Trinity.
Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, performed miracles, died on a cross to pay for our sins, rose from the dead, and is now at the right hand of God.
3. What is Salvation?
Humanity was created good, but we chose to go our own way, what the Bible calls sin. This created a gap between us and God that we could never bridge on our own.
Definition Block: Salvation
The act of being delivered from the power and penalty of sin. It is a free gift from God, received by repenting of sin and placing one's faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord.
We believe salvation is available to anyone who calls on the name of the Lord. It isn't earned by being "good enough" or doing enough charity work. It is a work of grace. When you say "yes" to Jesus, you are made a new creation.
4. The Baptism in the Holy Spirit
This is one of the most distinct parts of being a Pentecostal church. We believe that after a person is saved, they can and should seek the "Baptism in the Holy Spirit."
In the book of Acts, Jesus told His disciples to wait in Jerusalem until they were "clothed with power from on high." This experience is separate from salvation and provides the believer with power for life and service. We teach that the initial physical evidence of this baptism is speaking in other tongues, as the Spirit gives utterance.
Definition Block: Baptism in the Holy Spirit
An experience following salvation where the believer is filled with the Holy Spirit, empowering them for witnessing, spiritual growth, and the exercise of spiritual gifts.
5. Sanctification: A Lifelong Journey
Once we are saved, God begins a process of "setting us apart" from sin and making us more like Jesus. This is called sanctification. It’s not about being "perfect" overnight; it’s about a daily commitment to follow God’s lead and let the Holy Spirit change our hearts.
Definition Block: Sanctification
The ongoing process of being made holy through the work of the Holy Spirit. It involves a daily turning away from sin and a turning toward God’s character and purpose.
6. Divine Healing
We believe that the same Jesus who healed the blind, the lame, and the sick 2,000 years ago is still in the business of healing today. Divine healing is provided for in the atonement (Jesus’ death on the cross) and is a privilege for all believers.
We pray for the sick with expectancy. Whether healing comes through a miraculous touch or through the wisdom of doctors (which we also believe God provides), we recognize God as the ultimate Healer.
7. The Mission of the Church
The Church isn’t a building; it’s a people. Our mission is three-fold:
To Worship God: To give Him the glory He deserves.
To Build Up Believers: To help people grow in their faith (discipleship).
To Reach the World: To share the Gospel with our neighbors in Memphis and the nations through initiatives like Boundless Online Church.
At First Assembly Memphis, we are deeply committed to our local "901" community, from Bartlett and Cordova to Collierville and beyond. At the same time, we believe the Kingdom of God has no borders.
8. The Second Coming of Christ
We live with a "Blessed Hope." We believe that Jesus is coming back soon. For those who have trusted Him, this is not a fearful event but a glorious one. We look forward to the day when He returns to gather His followers and eventually establish a new heaven and a new earth where there is no more pain, sin, or death.
Practical Takeaways for Your Faith Journey
If you are just starting to explore these beliefs, here is how you can apply them today:
Read the Word: Start in the book of John to see the character of Jesus for yourself.
Talk to God: Prayer isn't a formal ritual; it's a conversation. Tell Him your doubts, your fears, and your needs.
Find Community: Faith wasn't meant to be lived alone. Whether you visit us in person in Memphis or join a digital small group, connection is key.
Seek the Spirit: Ask God to fill you with His Spirit so you can have the strength to live out your purpose.
Why This Matters for You
Knowing what we believe helps you understand your identity as a child of God. It provides a map for the messy parts of life and a foundation that doesn't shake when the world does. At First Assembly Memphis, we don't just want you to know about God; we want you to know Him.
Ready to Go Deeper?
Whether you are local to the 901 or watching from across the globe, we have a place for you.
If you're in Memphis, Cordova, Arlington, Bartlett, or the 901 area, we would love to welcome you in person. Come experience a service, meet our family, and find a place to belong: 🌐 www.famemphis.org
If you're outside our area or unable to attend locally, you are part of our global family. Join our thriving online community for worship, discipleship, and connection: 🌐 www.boundlessonlinechurch.org
Need prayers? Text us day or night at 1-901-213-7341. (Note: This line is for prayer and pastoral support, not emergency services. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, please call 911.)
You are not alone. We are here for you.
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