What Do Disciples Believe?
Like most Christians, Disciples affirm:
- Jesus Christ is the son of the Living God and offers saving grace to all.
- All people are God’s children.
Beliefs and practices usually associated with Disciples include:
Open Communion. The Lord’s Supper or Communion is celebrated in weekly worship. It is open to all who believe in Jesus Christ.
Freedom of Belief.
Disciples are called together around belief in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Persons are free to follow their consciences guided by the Bible, the Holy Spirit, study and prayer, and are expected to extend that freedom to others. We hold the centrality of scripture, recognizing that each person has the freedom – and the responsibility – to study God’s Word within the community of the church.
Baptism by Immersion.
In baptism the old self-centered life is set aside, and a new life of trust in God begins. Although Disciples practice baptism by immersion, other baptism traditions are honored.
Belief in the Oneness of the Church.
All Christians are called to be one in Christ and to find ways to work together in showing God’s love through witness and service. We hear a special calling to make visible the unity of all Christians. In our diversity, we belong to one another because we commonly belong to Christ.
The Ministry of all Believers.
Both ministers and lay persons lead in worship, service and spiritual growth. We affirm the priesthood of all believers, rejoicing in the gifts of the Holy Spirit – which include the gift of leadership – that God has given for the common good.