FA Memphis Connection:What is Assemblies of God 101?

Assemblies of God 101 is an introductory look at the beliefs, mission, and community of the AG church, focusing on Jesus-centered teaching and Spirit-filled living. For those in Cordova, TN, it’s a pathway to finding a spiritual family that strengthens marriages and supports parents.

If you’ve driven down Walnut Grove Road in Cordova, you’ve likely seen the signs for First Assembly Memphis. Maybe you’ve wondered what goes on inside or what “Assemblies of God” actually means. You might be a parent looking for a safe place for your kids to grow, or a couple seeking to strengthen your marriage in the middle of a busy Shelby County lifestyle. Whatever brought you here, we want you to know: you aren’t just a face in a crowd. You are welcome.

Finding a church home can feel like a big task, especially when you’re navigating the beautiful but sometimes chaotic life of parenting and marriage. In this guide, we’re going to break down the essentials of what we believe, how we live it out in the 901, and how you can get connected, whether you're right here in Memphis or joining us from the other side of the world through Boundless Online Church.

What is the Assemblies of God?

At its core, the Assemblies of God (AG) is a global family of Christians who are passionate about the Bible, the power of the Holy Spirit, and sharing the hope of Jesus. We aren't a "new" thing; the AG was formed in 1914 with a mission to reach the world. Today, we are one of the largest Pentecostal denominations in the world, but we still feel like a close-knit family.

In Cordova, TN, First Assembly Memphis serves as a local hub for this mission. We believe that the Church isn't a building, it's people. It’s the families in Germantown, the students in Bartlett, and the neighbors right here in Cordova coming together to grow.

The 16 Fundamental Truths (The Simple Version)

While we have a detailed statement of fundamental truths, you can think of them as our spiritual "north star." Here are the core pillars explained simply:

1. The Bible is Our Guide: We believe the Bible is God’s inspired Word. It’s our ultimate "how-to" for life.

2. One God, Three Persons: We believe in the Trinity, God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

3. Jesus is Lord: He was born of a virgin, lived a perfect life, died for our sins, and rose again.

4. The Fall and Salvation: Humans were created good but chose to walk away from God (sin). Jesus is the only way back to a right relationship with Him.

5. The Holy Spirit: We believe in being "filled" with the Holy Spirit to have power for living and sharing our faith.

6. The Church has a Mission: Our job is to worship God, build up believers, and help a hurting world.

7. Jesus is Coming Back: This is our "Blessed Hope." He will return to make all things new.

Concept	What it Means for You
Salvation	A fresh start and eternal life through trusting Jesus.
Sanctification	The lifelong process of becoming more like Jesus in how we think and act.
Divine Healing	Believing God still heals the sick today in answer to prayer.
Baptism in the Holy Spirit	An empowering experience that helps you live out your faith with boldness.

Community Life in the 901: Marriage and Parenting

Life in Shelby County is vibrant, but it can also be exhausting. Between school runs, work commutes, and the general pace of life, marriages and families can sometimes feel the strain. We believe that God designed us for community because "no one is meant to go through life alone."

Strengthening Marriages in Cordova

Whether you are newly married or have been together for decades, your relationship is a priority here. We offer life groups and community spaces where couples can meet other people in the same season of life.

• Relational Support: Through our Life Groups, couples find friends who pray for them and encourage them.

• Pastoral Guidance: Our team is here to walk with you through the ups and downs. We believe marriage is a covenant worth fighting for.

• The Good Cup: Sometimes, the best marriage support is just having a place to sit, have a coffee, and talk. Our Good Cup area is a great spot to connect before or after service.

Parenting with Purpose

Raising kids today is a challenge. From navigating technology to building character, parents in the 901 need a village. At First Assembly Memphis, we strive to be that village.

• FA Kids: We provide a fun, safe environment where kids learn that they are loved by God.

• Youth Ministry: Middle and high schoolers have a place to belong and ask the big questions about faith and life.

• Safe Community: We take safety seriously, ensuring that every child is cared for while parents enjoy the service.

Defining the Terms: What Does This Actually Mean?

If you're new to church, some of the words we use might sound like a foreign language. Let’s clear a few things up:

• Repentance: This isn't a scary word. It simply means changing your mind and turning away from doing things your way to follow God’s way.

• Baptism: This is an outward sign of an inward change. We immerse in water to show that our "old self" is gone and we are new in Christ.

• Discipleship: This is just a fancy word for "learning." It’s the process of growing as a follower of Jesus through Bible study and community.

• Pentecostal: This refers to our belief in the present-day work of the Holy Spirit, much like what the early church experienced in the book of Acts.

Why Cordova and Why Now?

Cordova is a unique bridge between the city of Memphis and the growing suburbs of Shelby County. It’s a place of diversity, growth, and family. We love being a part of this community. Whether you’re heading over to Shelby Farms Park for a Saturday morning walk or grabbing dinner on Germantown Parkway, we are your neighbors.

We believe that now, more than ever, people are looking for something real. In a world of digital noise, a face-to-face connection (or a meaningful digital one) is priceless. That’s why we offer Wednesday night family dinners and mid-week services, to give you a mid-week recharge.

How to Get Started: Your First Steps

If you’re ready to see what AG 101 looks like in person, here is how you can jump in:

1. Visit on a Sunday: Join us at 10:30 AM at 8650 Walnut Grove Rd. If you’re nervous about showing up alone, you can plan a visit and we’ll save you a seat!

2. Try a Life Group: These smaller gatherings at 9:30 AM are the best way to meet people and ask questions in a casual setting.

3. Join Us Online: Not in Memphis? No problem. Boundless Online Church offers a seat at the table for anyone, anywhere.

4. Ask Questions: We love questions. Whether it’s about our history or how to get your kids involved in sports, we’re here to help.

A Message for the Homebound or Distant

We know that not everyone can make it to 8650 Walnut Grove Road. Maybe you're homebound, working a tough shift, or living in another state. You are just as much a part of the family. Through Boundless, we bring the community to you. You can watch live, chat with a pastor, and even join a digital small group.

You Are Not Alone

Whether you’re a parent in Cordova trying to find your footing, a couple in Memphis looking for a fresh start, or a seeker online looking for truth, you don’t have to do this alone. The Assemblies of God 101 isn't just about a list of rules, it's about a relationship with a God who loves you and a community that wants to walk beside you.

Are you ready to take the next step in your spiritual journey?

Want to go deeper?

If you're in Memphis, Cordova, Arlington, Bartlett, or the 901, we would love to welcome you in person at First Assembly Memphis: 🌐 www.famemphis.org

If you're outside our area or unable to attend locally, join our online church community at Boundless: 🌐 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.)