Bible Study: What Is Assemblies of God 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Mastering the Basics of Your Faith?

The Assemblies of God is a Pentecostal Christian fellowship that prioritizes the Bible as the final authority for life and faith. It focuses on four core "cardinal" doctrines: salvation through Jesus Christ, baptism in the Holy Spirit, divine healing, and the return of Christ to earth.

Whether you have just stepped into a church in Cordova or you are searching for spiritual answers from across the globe, understanding the "basics" of faith helps you build a solid foundation. For many in the 901 area, from Bartlett to Arlington, discovering the Assemblies of God (AG) means finding a community that values both the ancient truths of Scripture and the active, present power of the Holy Spirit.

Why Does Your Church Background Matter?

If you are new to faith or considering joining First Assembly Memphis, you might wonder what makes this fellowship unique. At its heart, the Assemblies of God is about a personal, transformative relationship with Jesus. It isn't just about attending a service; it is about experiencing God’s grace and being empowered to share that grace with your neighbors and your family.

The 16 Fundamental Truths: Your Spiritual Roadmap

The Assemblies of God holds to 16 Fundamental Truths. Think of these not as a list of rules, but as a roadmap for understanding God’s heart for you.

Topic	Core Message	Key Scripture
The Bible	It is God’s inspired word and the guide for our lives.	2 Timothy 3:16
One God	Revealed as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (The Trinity).	Matthew 28:19
Jesus Christ	Fully God and fully man; He died and rose for us.	Matthew 1:23
Salvation	We are restored to God by trusting in Jesus’ sacrifice.	Romans 10:13
The Holy Spirit	Believers can be empowered for service through Spirit baptism.	Acts 1:8
Sanctification	A lifelong process of becoming more like Jesus.	1 Peter 1:15-16
The Church	A global community of believers with a mission to reach the lost.	Ephesians 1:22-23
The End Times	Jesus will return to gather His people and reign in peace.	1 Thessalonians 4:16-17

Strengthening the Family: Faith at Home in the 901

For families in Cordova, Bartlett, and Arlington, faith is often the glue that holds a home together. Assemblies of God 101 teaches that the family is a primary place for discipleship. When parents understand the basics of the Bible, they can better lead their children through the challenges of modern life.

Practical Ways to Master the Basics at Home:

1. Read Together: Choose one of the 16 Truths each week and find a story in the Bible that illustrates it.

2. Pray Specifically: Instead of general prayers, pray for God's "Divine Healing" for a sick friend or "Spirit Empowerment" for a difficult workday.

3. Talk About Growth: Discuss how you are learning to be more like Jesus (sanctification) in your daily reactions and choices.

Key Theological Definitions

Understanding faith often starts with understanding the language of the Bible. Here are three vital definitions:

• Salvation: The act of being saved from the power and penalty of sin through faith in Jesus Christ. It is a gift of grace, not something earned by good works.

• Spirit Baptism: A distinct experience following salvation where a believer is filled with the Holy Spirit for power in witnessing and spiritual growth.

• Sanctification: The ongoing work of God in a believer’s life to set them apart from sin and make them more like Jesus in character.

What Makes a Pentecostal Church Different?

You may notice a sense of vibrancy and expectation in a Pentecostal service. This stems from the belief that the Book of Acts wasn't just for the early church, it is for us today. We believe in "Initial Physical Evidence," which is the biblical sign of speaking in tongues when one is baptized in the Holy Spirit, as seen on the Day of Pentecost.

However, the "101" of this experience is more than just a sign; it is about purpose. The Holy Spirit gives you the courage to be a light in your workplace, the patience to be a better parent, and the strength to serve your community in Memphis.

Masters of the Basics: A List for Beginners

If you want to go deeper into your faith this week, follow this checklist:

• Identify Your "Why": Why do you want to follow Jesus? (Read John 3:16).

• Find a Community: Whether in-person at FA Memphis or through our online digital community, don't walk alone.

• Commit to Prayer: Start with five minutes a day, talking to God like a friend.

• Study the "Big Four": Focus on Salvation, Spirit Baptism, Divine Healing, and the Second Coming. These are the cornerstones of the Assemblies of God.

A Community Rooted in Memphis, Reaching the World

Whether you are living in the heart of the 901 or connecting with us from a different continent, the basics of faith remain the same. God loves you, He has a plan for your life, and He has provided everything you need through His Son, Jesus, and the power of the Holy Spirit.

Mastering the basics isn't about knowing every theological term; it’s about knowing the One who created you. It’s about finding a church family that feels like home and a faith that feels like life.

Want to go deeper?

If you're in Memphis, Cordova, Arlington, Bartlett, or the 901, we would love to welcome you in person to explore these truths together: 🌐 www.famemphis.org

If you're outside our area or unable to attend locally, join our global church family online for community and discipleship: 🌐 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.)