What Are the 16 Fundamental Truths of the Assemblies of God?
- Boundless Team
- Mar 1
- 5 min read
The 16 Fundamental Truths are the doctrinal foundation of the Assemblies of God, established in 1916. They outline biblical beliefs, including the inspiration of Scripture, the Trinity, salvation through Jesus Christ, baptism in the Holy Spirit, divine healing, and Christ's return, providing a clear framework for faith and practice.
If you've ever wondered what we actually believe at First Assembly Memphis, you're not alone. We're part of something bigger, a movement called the Assemblies of God, and our beliefs aren't vague or mysterious. They're anchored in Scripture and spelled out in what we call the 16 Fundamental Truths.
These aren't just theological talking points. They're the foundation we build our lives on, the compass that keeps us pointed toward Jesus, and the reason we gather every week right here in Memphis.
Let's walk through all 16.
1. The Scriptures Inspired
We believe the Bible is God's Word, every bit of it. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17). It's not just a good book or a collection of spiritual advice. It's infallible, authoritative, and the final word on faith and how we live.
When life gets confusing, the Bible doesn't. We don't have to guess what God thinks, He already told us.
2. The One True God
There is one God, eternally existing in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This is the Trinity, not three gods, but one God in three distinct persons (Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14).
Yeah, it's a mystery. But it's also beautiful. God is relational within Himself, and He invites us into that relationship.
3. The Deity of the Lord Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ is fully God and fully man. He wasn't just a good teacher or a prophet. He is the Son of God, eternally existing, born of a virgin, sinless in His life, crucified for our sins, raised from the dead, and now seated at the right hand of the Father (John 1:1, 14; Philippians 2:6-11).
If Jesus isn't God, we have no Savior. But He is, so we do.
4. The Fall of Man
Humanity was created in God's image, but we messed it up. Through Adam and Eve's disobedience, sin entered the world, and every person since has inherited a sinful nature (Romans 5:12). We're separated from God, unable to save ourselves.
This isn't pessimistic, it's honest. And it sets up the most beautiful truth of all: we need a Savior.
5. The Salvation of Man
Salvation is a gift, not something you earn. We're saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, His death, burial, and resurrection (Ephesians 2:8-9). When we repent of our sins and believe in Jesus, we're forgiven, justified, and made new.
You don't have to clean yourself up first. Jesus does the cleaning. You just have to come.
6. The Ordinances of the Church
We practice two ordinances: water baptism and Holy Communion. Water baptism by immersion is an outward expression of an inward change (Matthew 28:19). Communion reminds us of Christ's sacrifice and our unity with Him and each other (1 Corinthians 11:23-26).
These aren't magical rituals, they're meaningful acts of obedience and remembrance.
7. The Baptism in the Holy Spirit
This is where things get distinctly Pentecostal. All believers are entitled to receive the baptism in the Holy Spirit, a distinct experience after salvation that empowers us for service and witness (Acts 2:4). It's not about being "more saved." It's about being empowered.
Jesus promised the Holy Spirit would come, and He did. And He still does.
8. The Initial Physical Evidence of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit
When someone is baptized in the Holy Spirit, they speak in other tongues. This is the initial physical evidence, as seen throughout the book of Acts (Acts 2:4; 10:46; 19:6).
Speaking in tongues isn't weird, it's biblical. It's a prayer language, a sign, and a gift. And yes, it still happens today, right here in Memphis.
9. Sanctification
Sanctification is the process of being set apart and made holy. It begins the moment we're saved and continues throughout our lives as the Holy Spirit transforms us into the image of Christ (1 Thessalonians 5:23; Hebrews 12:14).
You're not expected to be perfect overnight. Growth is a journey, and God is patient with you.
10. The Church and Its Mission
The Church is the body of Christ, and we have a mission: to worship God, make disciples, and spread the gospel (Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 1:8). We're not a social club. We're a sent people, called to reach Cordova, Bartlett, Arlington, and every corner of the 901 with the good news of Jesus.
This is why we exist.
11. The Ministry
God calls and equips people for ministry. Every believer is called to serve, and some are specifically called to leadership roles, pastors, teachers, evangelists, and more (Ephesians 4:11-12). Ministry isn't reserved for the professionals. It's for all of us.
You have gifts. Use them.
12. Divine Healing
We believe in divine healing, that Jesus heals today just as He did 2,000 years ago (James 5:14-16; 1 Peter 2:24). Healing is part of the gospel. We pray for the sick, anoint with oil, and trust God for miracles.
Does everyone get healed every time? No. But we still believe, still pray, and still trust God's goodness.
13. The Blessed Hope
Jesus is coming back. This is our blessed hope, the rapture of the Church, when Christ returns for His people (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; Titus 2:13). We don't know the day or the hour, but we know it's coming, and we live ready.
This isn't about fear. It's about hope. The best is yet to come.
14. The Millennial Reign of Christ
After His return, Jesus will reign on earth for 1,000 years (Revelation 20:1-6). This is the Millennium, a time of peace, justice, and righteousness under King Jesus.
The world's chaos isn't the end of the story. Jesus wins, and He will rule in perfect peace.
15. The Final Judgment
There will be a final judgment. Those whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life will enter eternal life. Those who reject Christ will face eternal separation from God (Revelation 20:11-15).
This truth is sobering. It's why we share the gospel. Eternity is real, and the stakes are high.
16. The New Heavens and the New Earth
God will create a new heaven and a new earth where righteousness dwells (2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:1). No more pain, death, tears, or sin. Just the unbroken presence of God forever.
This is our ultimate destination. This is where everything is heading. And it's glorious.
Why It Matters in Memphis
These 16 truths aren't just dusty doctrine, they're the living, breathing foundation of who we are as a church family here in the 901. Every service, every prayer, every message we preach is rooted in these biblical convictions.
Whether you're in Cordova, Bartlett, or anywhere in the greater Memphis area, you're welcome to explore these truths with us. We believe the Bible. We believe in Jesus. And we believe God still moves today.
Want to dive deeper? Check out our beliefs page at www.famemphis.net/our-beliefs or join us for a service.
Want to go deeper?
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📞 Call or Text: (901) 213-7341
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