What Does the Assemblies of God Believe? The Simple Guide to AG 101

The Assemblies of God believes the Bible is God's inspired word, salvation is found only through Jesus Christ, and believers can experience the baptism in the Holy Spirit. We emphasize divine healing, the importance of the local church, and the "Blessed Hope" of Christ’s certain return to earth.

Walking into a new church in Memphis, or tuning in online from the other side of the world, can sometimes feel like stepping into a conversation that’s been going on for years. You hear terms like "Pentecostal," "Spirit-filled," or "Fundamental Truths," and you might wonder, what does this actually mean for my daily life?

At First Assembly Memphis, we believe that faith shouldn't be a mystery. Whether you are living in Cordova, Bartlett, or joining us via Boundless Online Church, we want you to have a clear map for your spiritual journey. This guide breaks down the core "AG 101" beliefs that anchor everything we do, from our Sunday worship in the 901 to our global digital discipleship.

The Four Cardinal Doctrines: The Pillars of Our Faith

While the Assemblies of God holds to 16 Fundamental Truths, we often highlight four "Cardinal Doctrines" that serve as the foundation of our mission. These are the non-negotiables that shape how we serve our city and the nations.

Doctrine	The Message	Why It Matters
Salvation	Through Jesus Christ alone.	It restores our relationship with God.
Spirit Baptism	Empowerment for service.	It gives us the strength to live for Him.
Divine Healing	God still heals today.	It shows God's mercy and power in our pain.
The Second Coming	Jesus is returning.	It provides hope for the future.

1. Salvation: The Gateway to New Life

Everything begins here. We believe that every person is created in the image of God but is separated from Him by sin. Salvation isn't about "trying harder" or being a "good person" in Memphis; it is a gift of grace. When we repent and put our trust in Jesus Christ, we are forgiven and made new.

2. The Baptism in the Holy Spirit: Power for the Journey

As a Pentecostal church, we believe the Holy Spirit isn't just a historical figure from the book of Acts, He is active today. This "Spirit Baptism" is an experience following salvation that empowers believers to witness and serve with boldness.

Definition: Spirit Baptism A distinct experience after salvation where the believer is filled with the Holy Spirit, often evidenced by speaking in tongues, providing power for Christian living and service.

The 16 Fundamental Truths Simplified

If you’re looking for the "fine print" of our theology, it’s found in the Statement of Fundamental Truths. Here is a simplified breakdown of what we teach at FA Memphis:

1. The Bible is Inspired: It’s our final authority for living.

2. One True God: Revealed in three persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

3. Jesus is Fully God: He lived a sinless life, died for us, and rose again.

4. The Fall of Man: We all need a Savior.

5. Salvation is by Grace: You can't earn it; you receive it.

6. Ordinances of the Church: We practice Water Baptism and Holy Communion.

7. Baptism in the Holy Spirit: Available to every believer today.

8. Initial Physical Evidence: Speaking in tongues as the Spirit gives utterance.

9. Sanctification: The lifelong process of becoming more like Jesus.

10. The Church’s Mission: To reach the world and worship God.

11. The Ministry: God calls leaders to equip the church.

12. Divine Healing: Provided for in the atonement of Christ.

13. The Blessed Hope: The rapture of the Church at Christ’s coming.

14. The Millennial Reign: Jesus will reign on earth for 1,000 years.

15. The Final Judgment: A reality for those who reject Christ.

16. New Heavens and New Earth: Our eternal home with God.

Healing and Hope in the 901

We believe that God is interested in your whole person, spirit, soul, and body. In a city like Memphis, where many are carrying physical or emotional burdens, the doctrine of Divine Healing is more than just a theory. It is a daily practice.

Definition: Divine Healing The biblical belief that God, through the power of Christ's sacrifice, can and does bring physical, emotional, and spiritual restoration to those who seek Him in faith.

Whether you need a miracle in your health, your marriage, or your finances, we believe that the same Jesus who healed the blind and the lame in the Bible is still at work in Cordova and the surrounding 901 area today. We regularly pray for the sick during our services because we’ve seen God do the impossible.

Why "Pentecostal" Matters for You

You might hear the word "Pentecostal" and think of loud music or high energy. While we do love to worship with passion, being Pentecostal is really about relationship and power. It means we don't try to live the Christian life in our own strength.

We rely on the Holy Spirit to help us navigate the stresses of life in Memphis, from the workplace to our homes. This "Spirit-led" lifestyle isn't just for "super-Christians"; it’s the standard equipment for every believer.

From Memphis to the Nations: A Dual Pathway

First Assembly Memphis is deeply rooted in our local community. We love the 901, and we are committed to seeing our neighbors thrive. If you are in Memphis, Germantown, or Arlington, we invite you to experience this community in person at FA Memphis.

However, our heart is also global. Through Boundless Online Church, we provide a digital bridge for those who cannot attend a local church. Whether you are homebound, traveling, or live in a region without a Spirit-filled church, you are part of our family.

Practical Takeaways for Your Week

1. Read the Word: Pick one of the 16 Truths and look up the Bible verses behind it.

2. Ask for the Spirit: If you’ve never asked God to fill you with His Spirit, pray a simple prayer today: "Lord, fill me with your power so I can serve you better."

3. Connect Locally: If you're in Memphis, join a Life Group to talk through these beliefs with others.

4. Join the Conversation: Tune into our live-stream and chat with a pastor during the service at Boundless.

Life Takeaway: You Belong Here

At the end of the day, "AG 101" isn't about checking boxes or memorizing a list. It's about knowing a God who loves you, has a plan for you, and empowers you to make a difference. No matter your background or where you live in the Memphis area, you have a seat at our table.

Does your current spiritual foundation give you the peace and power you need for today's challenges?

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 growth: 🌐 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.)