What Does the Assemblies of God Believe? AG 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Pentecostal Faith
- Boundless Team
- May 20
- 4 min read
The Assemblies of God believes in the 16 Fundamental Truths, centered on the Bible as God’s inspired Word. We emphasize salvation through Jesus Christ, the baptism in the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues, divine healing, and the imminent second coming of Christ.
Understanding the Foundation: Why Doctrine Matters to You
Navigating faith can sometimes feel like trying to read a map in a different language. You want to know what a church stands for before you walk through the doors in Memphis or log on from across the globe. Understanding the "Why" behind the "What" helps you build a life on solid ground rather than shifting sand.
At First Assembly Memphis and Boundless Online Church, our beliefs aren't just dry list of rules; they are life-giving truths that empower you to face the challenges of the 901 and beyond. We are part of the Assemblies of God (AG), a Pentecostal movement that focuses on the presence and power of God in everyday life.
The Four Cardinal Doctrines: The Heart of the Message
While we hold to 16 Fundamental Truths, four of them serve as the pillars of our mission. These are the truths that change the trajectory of a person's life:
Salvation: This is the beginning of everything. Through the death and resurrection of Jesus, anyone can be restored to a relationship with God.
Baptism in the Holy Spirit: This is a distinct experience following salvation that provides power for living and sharing your faith.
Divine Healing: We believe that God still heals the sick today as a testimony of His love and power.
The Second Coming: We live with the "Blessed Hope" that Jesus is returning for His followers.
Definition: Salvation The act of being rescued from the power and penalty of sin through faith in Jesus Christ, resulting in eternal life and a restored relationship with God.
Is the Bible Still Relevant Today?
The first fundamental truth we hold is that the Bible is the inspired Word of God. This means it isn't just a historical book or a collection of good advice. It is the "rule book" for our faith and our conduct. In a world of conflicting opinions, the Scriptures provide a steady North Star for families in Cordova, Bartlett, and everywhere else.
We believe the Bible is "inerrant," meaning it is without error in its original form. When you read it, you aren't just reading ancient words; you are hearing the heart of your Creator speaking to your current situation.
Definition: Sanctification The ongoing process of being set apart from sin and becoming more like Jesus Christ in character and action through the power of the Holy Spirit.
What is the "Pentecostal Difference"?
You might hear the word "Pentecostal" and wonder what it means for your Sunday morning. For us, it means expecting the Holy Spirit to be active and present. We believe that the same power that was available to the early church in the Book of Acts is available to you today.
The "Baptism in the Holy Spirit" is a key experience we encourage every believer to seek. It isn't "extra salvation," but rather an empowerment for service. We believe the initial physical evidence of this baptism is speaking in tongues, as seen in the New Testament. This gift is a tool for your prayer life and a sign of God's overflowing presence.
Facing the Reality of Sin with the Hope of Redemption
We don't ignore the brokenness in our world or our lives. Sin is a reality that separates us from God's best. Whether it is pride, addiction, or the weight of past mistakes, sin creates a barrier. However, we address sin not to shame you, but to point you toward the solution: Jesus Christ.
The solution to sin is repentance, turning away from our own way and turning toward God. When you do this, you experience "justification," which means God sees you as if you had never sinned. It is a fresh start that is available to everyone, regardless of their background or neighborhood in Memphis.
Top 5 Core Pillars of AG Faith: A Quick Guide
Pillar | Biblical Basis | Practical Impact |
Biblical Authority | 2 Timothy 3:16 | Provides a clear guide for making life decisions. |
The Trinity | Matthew 28:19 | Helps us understand the nature of God as Father, Son, and Spirit. |
Water Baptism | Matthew 28:19 | A public declaration of your internal commitment to Jesus. |
Divine Healing | Isaiah 53:4-5 | Gives us the confidence to pray for the sick and expect miracles. |
The Church | Ephesians 1:22 | Connects us to a local and global community of support. |
Taking Your Next Step in the 901 or Online
Whether you are looking for a church home in Germantown or Collierville, or you are joining us digitally from another country, these truths are for you. Faith is not a solo journey. It is a walk taken in community, fueled by the Spirit, and anchored in the Word.
If you have questions about the Holy Spirit, baptism, or how to start a relationship with Jesus, we are here to walk with you. You don't have to have it all figured out to belong here.
Practical Ways to Grow This Week
Read the Gospel of John: Start here to see the life and love of Jesus firsthand.
Ask for Prayer: If you are struggling with an illness or a difficult situation, reach out. We believe in the power of divine healing.
Join a Life Group: Whether in-person in Memphis or through Boundless Online, connecting with others is vital for your growth.
Seek the Spirit: Spend time in quiet prayer, asking God to fill you with His Holy Spirit and empower you for the week ahead.
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.)
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 firsthand: 🌐 www.famemphis.org
If you're outside our area or unable to attend locally, you can still be part of a vibrant, Spirit-filled community through our online church: 🌐 www.boundlessonlinechurch.org
If you need prayer or someone to talk to, you are not alone. 📞 Call or Text: (901) 213-7341
We are here for you.
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