Bible Study: What Is the Assemblies of God? AG 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Our Pentecostal Roots

The Assemblies of God is a global fellowship of Spirit-filled, Bible-centered churches. We are rooted in the Pentecostal tradition, emphasizing salvation through Jesus Christ, the baptism in the Holy Spirit, divine healing, and the second coming of Christ as our core "cardinal" doctrines.

Have you ever driven through Cordova, Bartlett, or downtown Memphis and wondered what that "First Assembly" sign actually stands for? Maybe you’ve heard the term “Pentecostal” and felt a mix of curiosity and confusion. You’re not alone. In a world where there are so many different denominations and church names, it is important to know exactly what a church believes and why they believe it.

At First Assembly Memphis, we aren't just a building on a corner; we are part of a global movement that started with a small group of believers who wanted to see the power of the New Testament church alive today. Whether you are a lifelong believer in Arlington or a skeptic in the 901 just looking for answers, this guide is designed to walk you through our "AG 101" roots.

A Movement Born of Hunger: Our History

The Assemblies of God (AG) didn't start in a boardroom; it started in a prayer room. In the early 1900s, a spiritual hunger swept across America. People were tired of "form without power." They began to study the Book of Acts and ask: “If God did it then, why can’t He do it now?”

In 1914, about 300 believers gathered in Hot Springs, Arkansas, to form a "cooperative fellowship." They didn't want to create a rigid, top-down hierarchy. Instead, they wanted to support each other in missions, church planting, and doctrinal purity. Today, that small gathering has grown into one of the largest Pentecostal fellowships in the world, with over 85 million members globally.

In Memphis, our own history is deeply intertwined with these roots. As our Pastor for Boundless Online outreach often shares, the local church is the place where life's biggest milestones happen. From being saved and baptized to finding a community that feels like family, the local church, whether in person at FA Memphis or online through Boundless, is where the Holy Spirit moves in personal ways.

The "Four Cardinal Doctrines": Our Core Focus

While we have 16 Fundamental Truths (which we’ll touch on in a moment), we often summarize our mission through the Four Cardinal Doctrines. These are the four pillars that hold up everything we do at First Assembly Memphis.

1. Salvation: Jesus as Savior

We believe that every person has sinned and needs a Savior. Salvation isn't earned by being "good enough" or checking off a list of religious rules. It is a free gift of grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ. When you repent (turn away from your own way) and trust in Him, you are made new.

2. Baptism in the Holy Spirit: Jesus as Spirit Baptizer

This is a distinct experience that follows salvation. In the Book of Acts, we see believers empowered by the Holy Spirit to be bold witnesses. We believe this experience is still available today. It’s not about being "better" than others; it’s about having the power to live the Christian life and share God's love with the 901 and beyond.

3. Divine Healing: Jesus as Healer

We believe that God still heals today. This doesn't mean we ignore doctors or medicine, we thank God for them! But we also believe that through the atonement of Christ, there is provision for physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. We regularly pray for the sick at FA Memphis, believing that God’s supernatural hand can move in your life.

4. The Second Coming: Jesus as Soon-Coming King

This is our "Blessed Hope." We believe that Jesus is coming back again to gather His Church. This isn't something to fear; it’s something that motivates us to live holy lives and reach as many people as possible before His return.

The 16 Fundamental Truths: A Scannable Summary

To provide a deeper foundation, the Assemblies of God adheres to 16 non-negotiable truths. Here is a quick look at what they mean for you and your family:

Truth	Biblical Focus	Practical Meaning
The Bible	Inspired & Inerrant	It is our "manual" for living in Memphis today.
One True God	The Trinity	God is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Deity of Christ	Jesus is God	He isn't just a "good teacher"; He is Lord.
Fall of Man	All have sinned	This explains why the world is broken.
Salvation	Grace through faith	You can have a fresh start today.
Ordinances	Baptism & Communion	Physical signs of an internal spiritual reality.
Holy Spirit	Baptism in the Spirit	Power for witnessing and service.
Evidence	Speaking in Tongues	The initial physical sign of Spirit baptism.
Sanctification	Lifelong growth	God loves you as you are, but won't leave you that way.
The Church	Our Mission	We exist to reach the lost and build the found.
Ministry	Called Leaders	God provides pastors and leaders to equip us.
Healing	Divine provision	God cares about your physical body and health.
Rapture	The Blessed Hope	Jesus will return for His followers.
Millennium	Christ’s Reign	A literal 1,000-year reign of peace on earth.
Final Judgment	Accountability	Every life matters and will be reviewed by God.
New Earth	Eternal Future	Our final home is with God forever.

Why This Matters for Your Family in the 901

You might be thinking, "This sounds like great theology, but how does it help me with my teenager in Cordova or my marriage in Bartlett?"

Our Pentecostal roots aren't just about what happens on a Sunday morning; they are about how we live on a Tuesday afternoon.

1. Family Strength: We believe the Holy Spirit empowers parents to lead with wisdom and grace. Through ministries like FACS (First Assembly Christian School), we partner with parents to raise the next generation with a biblical worldview.

2. Community Support: Life in Memphis can be tough. We need each other. Whether it's through Wednesday Night Meals or our "The Journey" discipleship groups, we provide a place where you don't have to walk alone.

3. Real Solutions: We don't offer "vague inspiration." We offer the Word of God, which has the power to break addictions, heal fractured relationships, and give you peace in the middle of a culture war.

Key Definitions for the Journey

Definition: Pentecostal A Christian who emphasizes the work of the Holy Spirit, the direct experience of God's presence, and the belief that the spiritual gifts described in the New Testament (like healing and tongues) are still active today.

Definition: Sanctification The process of being "set apart" for God. It begins at salvation and continues throughout a believer's life as the Holy Spirit helps them become more like Jesus in their character and actions.

Definition: Spirit Baptism An experience where a believer is "filled" or "clothed" with the power of the Holy Spirit, specifically for the purpose of being a more effective witness for Christ.

Your Life Takeaway: Take One Step Closer

Understanding the "AG 101" basics is more than just a history lesson. It’s an invitation. God isn't looking for religious experts; He is looking for hungry hearts.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, if your family feels fractured, or if you are simply searching for a truth that doesn't shift with the culture, we invite you to explore these roots further. You are a priceless child of God, and He has a purpose for your life that is bigger than any struggle you are facing today.

Closing Question: If God is still moving today just like He did in the Bible, what is the one area of your life where you need Him to show up right now?

Want to go deeper?

If you're in Memphis, Cordova, Arlington, Bartlett, or the 901, we would love to welcome you in person to experience this community for yourself: 🌐 www.famemphis.org

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

We are here for you.