What Is AG 101? A Beginner’s Guide to Mastering the Basics of Faith in the 901
- Boundless Team
- May 18
- 6 min read
AG 101 is an introductory guide to the foundational beliefs of the Assemblies of God. It covers the 16 Fundamental Truths, including salvation through Jesus Christ, the authority of the Bible, and the baptism in the Holy Spirit, providing a roadmap for believers in the Memphis area.
Finding Your Footing as the Day Ends in Memphis
As the city lights of Memphis begin to twinkle and the evening settles over the 901, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the deeper questions of life. Whether you are driving down Germantown Parkway or taking a quiet moment in a Cordova coffee shop, the noise of culture can often feel overwhelming. Navigating life as a believer in today’s world requires a solid foundation, a set of "basics" that keep you anchored when the storms of life roll in from the Mississippi River.
AG 101 isn't just a set of rules; it is an invitation to discover the heart of God. If you have ever wondered what makes an Assemblies of God church different, or if you are simply looking for a clear path to follow Jesus, this guide is for you. We believe that everyone is a priceless child of God, and we want to help you master the basics of faith so you can live a life empowered by the Spirit.
What Does "AG" Stand For?
"AG" stands for the Assemblies of God, a global fellowship of churches that started with a simple desire: to return to the power and practice of the early church found in the New Testament. In the 901, being part of an AG community like First Assembly Memphis means joining a family that values biblical authority, passionate worship, and a deep reliance on the Holy Spirit.
At its core, AG 101 is about understanding that God is still active today. He isn't a distant historical figure; He is a living Savior who wants a relationship with you. This journey begins with the Bible, which we hold as our ultimate guide for faith and daily living.
The Core Pillars of Faith: A Quick Guide
To help you navigate the essentials, we can look at the four core doctrines that define our movement. These truths provide the "solution" to the brokenness we often feel in our culture.
Topic | Core Belief | Biblical Anchor |
Salvation | A free gift through faith in Jesus Christ. | Ephesians 2:8-9 |
Baptism in the Holy Spirit | An experience that empowers us for witness and service. | Acts 1:8 |
Divine Healing | God’s power to heal the sick today. | James 5:14-16 |
The Second Coming | The hope that Jesus will return for His people. | 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 |
Understanding the Language of Faith
As you begin this journey, you might hear some terms that sound a bit "churchy." We want to bridge that gap. Here are a few definitions to help you feel at home in any conversation about faith.
Definition Block: Salvation Salvation is the act of being delivered from the power and penalty of sin. It is a gift from God that we receive by repenting of our sins and placing our trust in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.
Definition Block: Baptism in the Holy Spirit A distinct experience following salvation where a believer is filled with the Holy Spirit. This provides spiritual power for bold witnessing and a deeper walk with God, often accompanied by the gift of speaking in tongues as the Spirit gives utterance.
Definition Block: Sanctification The ongoing process of being "set apart" for God. It is a work of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life that helps us become more like Jesus in our character, thoughts, and actions.
Navigating Culture as a Believer in the 901
Living as a Christian in Memphis means more than just attending a service on Sunday. It means bringing the light of Christ into your workplace in Collierville, your school in Bartlett, and your neighborhood in Arlington. Our culture often tells us that truth is relative or that our value is based on our performance. AG 101 reminds us of a different truth: your value is found in Christ.
When you face pressure to compromise your values or when you feel the weight of the world’s problems, remember that you are not alone. The church is a hospital for the broken and a training ground for the called. We are here to walk with you as you learn to filter everything through the lens of Scripture.
If you are just starting out, check out our I'm New page to see how you can get plugged into a community that will support your growth.
Top 5 Practical Steps to Master the Basics
If you want to move from "beginner" to "master" in your walk with God, consistency is key. Here are five practical ways to grow your faith starting tonight:
Read the Word Daily: Start with the Gospel of John. It’s the best place to get to know the heart of Jesus. Aim for one chapter a day.
Talk to God (Prayer): Prayer doesn't have to be fancy. Just talk to Him like a friend. Share your fears, your needs, and your gratitude.
Find a Life Group: Faith is a team sport. Whether it’s in Cordova or Bartlett, find a small group where you can ask questions and find community.
Serve Others: Look for a way to show God’s love to someone else in the 901 this week. It could be as simple as helping a neighbor.
Attend Midweek Growth: Sometimes we need a recharge before Sunday. Explore our Wednesday Menu and join us for a meal and a study.
Why the Holy Spirit Matters
One of the most life-changing parts of AG 101 is the emphasis on the Holy Spirit. We believe that God doesn't just want to save you; He wants to fill you. The baptism in the Holy Spirit isn't an "extra" for super-Christians, it’s a promise for every believer.
This empowerment gives you the strength to overcome habits that hold you back and the boldness to share your story with others. If you feel like your spiritual life is "dry," ask God tonight to fill you afresh with His Spirit.
An Evening Reflection and Prayer
Before you close this tab and end your day, take a deep breath. Whatever you are carrying, be it stress from work, family concerns, or questions about the future, know that God is with you.
A Simple Evening Prayer: "Lord, thank You for Your love and for the truth of Your Word. As I learn the basics of faith, help me to keep my eyes on Jesus. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit tonight so that I can wake up tomorrow ready to serve You and my neighbors in the 901. Amen."
If you have specific prayer requests, please don't hesitate to reach out. We are a community that believes in the power of prayer. Visit our Prayer and Praise page to share what's on your heart.
Your Next Steps in the Journey
The journey of faith is a marathon, not a sprint. Mastering the basics of AG 101 is about building a foundation that can support a lifetime of growth. We invite you to explore our Mission and Vision to see how we are reaching Memphis for Christ.
Whether you are in West Memphis, Millington, or right here in Cordova, there is a place for you in this family. Let's grow together, course-correcting with love, and always keeping Christ at the center of everything we do.
Connect With Us
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.)
Local Pathway: To learn more about our local community, visit www.famemphis.org. You can find our latest blog posts, listen to podcasts, and use our church search tool to find the right ministry for your family. Join us this Sunday for our live services or find a Life Group near you.
Global Pathway: If you are looking for digital discipleship or want to be part of an online community, visit www.boundlessonlinechurch.org. We offer resources and connection for those seeking to follow Christ from anywhere in the world.
Our office is open Monday–Friday 9–4 CST, and you can always join our Sunday live-streaming service featuring a live chat with the Pastor for Boundless Online outreach, part of FA Memphis Church. We can't wait to see how God moves in your life as you master the basics of faith in the 901.
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