Christian Living: What Does the Assemblies of God Believe? AG 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Mastering Our Pentecostal Roots in Memphis
The Assemblies of God (AG) believes that the Bible is the inspired Word of God and the final authority for faith. We emphasize salvation through Jesus Christ, baptism in the Holy Spirit, divine healing, and the second coming of Christ as our core "cardinal" doctrines for daily living.
Are you curious about what makes a Pentecostal church tick, especially right here in the heart of the 901? Whether you’ve driven past our campus in Memphis or you’re joining us digitally from across the globe, understanding the "why" behind the "what" is the first step to a deeper faith. At First Assembly Memphis, we aren't just about traditions; we are about a lived-out relationship with Jesus that transforms families in Cordova, Bartlett, Arlington, and beyond.
Why Do Our Beliefs Matter?
Doctrine can sound like a dusty word from a library basement, but in reality, it’s the roadmap for your life. Think of it like the GPS coordinates for a trip through Shelby County, without them, you might end up lost in the woods. Our beliefs, rooted in the Assemblies of God tradition, provide a solid foundation for your family to grow, heal, and find purpose.
In a world that feels increasingly shaky, having a firm grasp on biblical truth isn’t just "good to know", it’s essential for survival. It’s the difference between a house built on Memphis silt and one built on the solid rock of Scripture.
Key Definitions for Your Journey
To master the basics, let’s clear up some of the "church speak" you might hear:
Term | Biblical Definition | Practical Meaning |
Salvation | Being saved from sin’s penalty through faith in Jesus (Ephesians 2:8). | A fresh start and an eternal home with God. |
Sanctification | The lifelong process of becoming more like Christ (1 Thessalonians 5:23). | Growing a little better and kinder every single day. |
Repentance | Turning away from sin and turning toward God (Acts 3:19). | Making a "U-turn" when you realize you’re going the wrong way. |
Spirit Baptism | An empowering experience with the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8). | Getting "filled up" with God’s power to help others. |
Divine Healing | God’s power to restore health (James 5:14-15). | Trusting that God still performs miracles in our bodies today. |
The 16 Fundamental Truths: A Quick Look
The Assemblies of God holds to 16 fundamental truths. While we don't have space to write a book on each one today, here is the "Beginner’s Guide" version for you and your family:
The Bible is Inspired: It’s God’s letter to us. It doesn't just contain truth; it is truth.
The One True God: God exists in three persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
The Deity of Jesus: Jesus is fully God and fully man.
The Fall of Man: We all messed up, and sin separated us from God.
The Salvation of Man: Jesus died so we could be brought back to God.
The Ordinances: We practice Water Baptism and Holy Communion.
Baptism in the Holy Spirit: This is for every believer to empower our witness.
Initial Physical Evidence: We believe speaking in tongues is the first sign of Spirit Baptism.
Sanctification: We are called to live holy lives, set apart for God’s use.
The Church and Its Mission: We are here to reach the lost and worship God.
The Ministry: God calls leaders to equip the church for service.
Divine Healing: We pray for the sick because God still heals.
The Blessed Hope: Jesus is coming back for His church (The Rapture).
The Millennial Reign: Jesus will return to earth to rule for 1,000 years of peace.
The Final Judgment: There is a real accountability for how we respond to Jesus.
The New Heavens and New Earth: God is preparing a perfect eternal home for us.
The "Big Four": Our Cardinal Doctrines
If you’re just starting out, focus on these four. They are the pillars of everything we do at FA Memphis and Boundless Online Church.
1. Salvation
Everything starts here. You don’t have to be perfect to come to Jesus; you just have to be willing. Whether you're in a high-rise in downtown Memphis or a quiet street in Arlington, the message is the same: Jesus loves you, died for you, and wants a relationship with you.
2. Baptism in the Holy Spirit
We believe the Christian life wasn’t meant to be lived in your own strength. The Holy Spirit is our Comforter and our Power Source. This experience, distinct from salvation, helps you live out your faith boldly in your workplace and your neighborhood.
3. Divine Healing
Does God still heal in 2026? Absolutely. We’ve seen it in our pews and in our online prayer rooms. We believe that because of what Jesus did on the cross, healing is available for our physical, emotional, and spiritual brokenness.
4. The Second Coming (The Blessed Hope)
We live with an eye on the horizon. This belief keeps us motivated to share the Gospel and gives us peace when the news headlines feel overwhelming. We know how the story ends, Jesus wins!
Strengthening Your Family in the 901
For our families in Cordova, Bartlett, and Arlington, these truths aren't just for Sunday morning. They are the secret sauce to a strong home. When a family is anchored in the Word of God, they can weather any storm, from financial stress to teenage rebellion.
Family Strength Checklist:
Pray Together: Start small. Pray before school or at the dinner table.
Read Together: Pick one of the 16 truths each week and talk about it with your kids.
Serve Together: Look for ways to help your neighbors in Memphis.
Worship Together: Whether in person at First Assembly Memphis or online via Boundless, make corporate worship a non-negotiable.
A Community That Feels Like Home
At the end of the day, "Pentecostal" isn't just a label; it’s an invitation to experience the presence of God. We are a multigenerational family. You’ll see grandmothers from Germantown sitting next to college students from the University of Memphis, all seeking the same thing: more of God.
If you’ve felt like just another face in the crowd, we want you to know that you are priceless. You are a child of God, and there is a seat at the table for you here.
Practical Takeaways for Your Week
Pick One Truth: This week, focus on Sanctification. Ask God, "How can I be a little more like Jesus today?"
Memorize a Verse: Try Ephesians 2:8: "For by grace you have been saved through faith."
Invite Someone: Knowledge is meant to be shared. If these truths helped you, tell a friend in Bartlett or Cordova about what you're learning.
Does your current foundation feel strong enough to hold up your future? If you're looking for a place to grow deep roots and reach high for God’s presence, you’ve found it.
Want to Go Deeper?
If you're in Memphis, Cordova, Arlington, Bartlett, or the 901, we would love to welcome you in person for worship, community, and deeper study: 🌐 www.famemphis.org
Outside the area or unable to attend locally? Join our global online church community for live services, digital small groups, 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.)
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