ARTICLES OF RELIGION

Reference Guide for the Lumber River Conference of the Holiness Methodist Church

Why the Articles of Religion?

The Articles of Religion serve as our statement of faith, capturing the core beliefs and theological principles that guide the Lumber River Conference of the Holiness Methodist Church (LRCHMC). Understanding the history and purpose of these articles will provide insights into their significance and role in our Christian belief and practice.

Historical Overview

The Articles of Religion have their roots in the doctrinal formulations of the Anglican Church of England, which established thirty-nine articles in the 16th century as a comprehensive guide to Protestant beliefs. John Wesley, an Anglican clergyman and the leader of Methodism, adapted the original articles, reducing them to twenty-five to better align with the beliefs and practices of the Methodist movement. In 1784, Methodism made its way to America, establishing itself under the banner of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Today, the Lumber River Conference of the Holiness Methodist Church follows sixteen Articles of Religion, which clearly express its faith. We encourage everyone to study these articles to gain a deeper understanding of these beliefs and to reinforce their commitment to the Body of Christ.

I. Of Faith in the Holy Trinity

There is but one living and true God, everlasting, without body or parts, of infinite power, wisdom, and goodness the maker and preserver of all things, visible and invisible And In unity of this Godhead there are three persons of One substance, power, and eternal: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

Concept: Belief in one God in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

Scriptural Basis:

Matthew 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.
2 Corinthians 13:14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.

Historical Context:

The Trinitarian belief in God has been a central view of Christian faith since the days of the early Church. The Nicene Creed (325 AD) was formulated to affirm the divinity of Jesus and the Holy Spirit alongside God the Father.

Importance of the Doctrine:

The Unity of Godhead: This emphasizes that while God exists in three persons, they are of one substance and essence.

Practical Application:

Prayer and Worship: Christians often pray to the Father, through the Son, in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Understanding Salvation: Acknowledges the unified work of the Trinity in salvation, with God the Father’s plan, God the Son’s sacrifice, and the Holy Spirit’s indwelling presence, all working together in harmony

Rejection of Contradictory Beliefs:

The doctrine rejects any belief that denies the full divinity or distinct personhood of the Father, the Son, or the Holy Spirit.

II. Of the Word, or Son of God, who was made very Man

The Son, who was the Word of the Father, the very and eternal God, of one substance with the Father, took man’s nature in the womb of the blessed Virgin: so that two whole and perfect nature, that is to say, the Godhead and Manhood, were Joined together in one person, never to be divided whereof is one Christ, very God and very Man, who truly suffered, was crucified, dead, and buried, to reconcile His Father to us, and to be a sacrifice, not only for original guilt but also for the actual sins of men.

Concept: Jesus Christ, the Son of God, took on human nature and became truly human.

Scriptural Basis:

John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
Philippians 2:6-8 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

Historical Context:

This doctrine was affirmed in the early Church councils, particularly in the Chalcedonian Definition (451 AD), which declared Jesus as fully God and fully man.

Importance of the Doctrine:

Incarnation: Emphasizes the mystery and miracle of God becoming human.
Redemption: Asserts that Jesus had to be truly human to be able to make atonement for human sin and truly God to have the power to save.

Practical Application:

Salvation Assurance: Believers have confidence that Jesus’ sacrifice was sufficient because He is both God and Man.
Example: Jesus, being truly human, empathizes with our weaknesses and serves as an example of holy living.

Rejection of Contradictory Beliefs:

Denies any doctrine that either diminishes the humanity or divinity of Christ.

III. Of the Resurrection of Christ

Christ did truly rise again from the dead, and took again his body, with all things appertaining to the perfection of man’s nature, wherewith He ascended into heaven, and there sitteth until He returns to judge all men at the last day.

Concept: Jesus Christ truly rose from the dead, ascended into heaven, and will return to judge.

Scriptural Basis:

1 Corinthians 15:3-4 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures.
Act 17:31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.

Historical Context:

The resurrection is the Cornerstone of Christian faith, celebrated from the earliest days of the Church as evidence of Jesus’ victory over death and sin.

Importance of the Doctrine:

Validation of Jesus’ Claims: The resurrection confirms Jesus as the Son of God and Savior of the world.
Hope of Eternal Life: Provides believers with the hope of their own resurrection and eternal life.
Foundation of Christian Faith: Without the resurrection, Christian preaching and faith would be in vain (1 Corinthians 15:14).

Practical Application:

Living Hope: Encourages believers to live with the hope of and in the power of the resurrection.
Eternal Perspective: Shapes a Christian’s perspective on suffering, death, and the afterlife.

Rejection of Contradictory Beliefs:

Refutes any belief that denies the physical resurrection of Jesus, such as the idea that He only rose spiritually or symbolically.

IV. Of the Holy Ghost

The Holy Ghost, proceeding from the Father and Son, is of one substance, majesty, and glory with the Father and the Son, very and eternal God.

Concept: The Holy Spirit is God, equal in substance, majesty, and glory with the Father and the Son.

Scriptural Basis:

John 14:16-17 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
Acts 5:3-4 Peter affirms the Holy Spirit as God when confronting Ananias.

Historical Context:

The divinity of the Holy Spirit was affirmed in the early Church, particularly at the Council of Constantinople (381 AD), which expanded the Nicene Creed to include a fuller statement about the Holy Spirit.

Importance of the Doctrine:

Indwelling Presence: The Holy Spirit lives within believers, guiding, empowering, and sanctifying them. Romans 8:9-13
Unity in the Trinity: Highlights the co-equality and co-eternity of the Holy Spirit with the Father and the Son.

Practical Application:

Guidance and Comfort: Believers rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance, comfort, and empowerment.
Spiritual Gifts: The Holy Spirit bestows spiritual gifts for the empowerment of the believer, the edification of the Church and the evangelization of the world.

Rejection of Contradictory Beliefs:

Opposes any teaching that denies the personhood or divinity of the Holy Spirit, such as views that see the Holy Spirit merely as a force or impersonal power.

V. The Sufficiency of the Holy Scriptures for Salvation

The Holy Scriptures contain all things necessary to salvation so that whatsoever is not read therein, nor may be proved thereby, is not to be required of any man that It should be believed as an article of faith, or be thought requisite or necessary to salvation In the name of the Holy Scriptures we do understand those canonical books of the Old and New Testament of whose authority was never in doubt in the Church the names of the canonical books are: All the books of the Old and New Testament, as they are commonly received, we do receive and account canonical.

Concept: The Bible (sixty-six books) contains all that is necessary for salvation and should be the ultimate authority in matters of faith and practice.

Scriptural Basis:

2 Timothy 3:16-17 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
Psalm 19:7 The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.

Historical Context:

The early Church recognized the authority of the Scriptures, and the canon of the Old and New Testaments was affirmed over centuries of usage and affirmation by Church councils.

Importance of the Doctrine:

Authority: Asserts that Scripture is the final authority on matters of faith and practice.
Sufficiency: Emphasizes that nothing outside of Scripture is necessary for salvation.

Practical Application:

Daily Guidance: Encourages believers to read and study the Bible for guidance in their Christian walk.
Doctrinal Purity: Ensures that teachings and practices are aligned with biblical truth.

Rejection of Contradictory Beliefs:

Opposes any doctrine or tradition that adds to or contradicts the teachings of Scripture, such as the necessity of extra-biblical revelations for salvation.

VI. The Old Testament

The Old Testament is not contrary to the New; for both in the Old and New Testament everlasting life is offered to mankind by Christ, who is the only Mediator between God and man, being both God and Man. Wherefore they are not to be heard who feign that the old fathers did look only for transitory promises. Although the law given from God by Moses as touching ceremonies and rites, doth not of necessity be received in any commonwealth, yet notwithstanding, no Christian whatsoever is free from the obedience of the commandments which are called moral.

Concept: The Old Testament is harmonious with the New Testament and offers eternal life through Christ.

Scriptural Basis:

Romans 15:4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.
John 5:39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.

Historical Context:

The early Church recognized the Old Testament as Scripture, seeing it as the foundation for understanding the New Testament.

Importance of the Doctrine:

Fulfillment in Christ: Demonstrates how the Old Testament prophecies and promises are fulfilled in Jesus.
Moral Law: Highlights the continuing relevance of the moral law given in the Old Testament. 1 Timothy 1:8-10

Practical Application:

Biblical Study: Encourages studying the Old Testament to understand God’s character and plan.
Moral Guidance: Applies the moral teachings of the Old Testament to present Christian living.

Rejection of Contradictory Beliefs:

Refutes the idea that the Old Testament is obsolete or irrelevant for Christians, emphasizing its enduring value and significance.

VII. Original or Birth Sin

Original sin standeth not in the following of Adam (as the Pelagians do vainly talk), but it is the corruption of the nature of every man, that naturally is engendered of the offspring of Adam, whereby man is very far gone from original righteousness, and of his own nature is inclined to evil, and that continually.

Concept: It refutes the idea held by Pelagians, who claimed that sin is only a matter of following Adam’s example. Instead, it asserts that original sin is not just a behavior copied from Adam but an inherent corruption, making all humans naturally inclined toward sin and evil.

Scriptural Basis:

Romans 5:12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.
Psalm 51:5 Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.

Historical Context:

The idea of Original Sin stems from the biblical account of Adam and Eve’s disobedience in the Garden of Eden, as described in the Book of Genesis. This event is often referred to as “the Fall” or “the first sin.”

Importance of the Doctrine:

Human Condition: Explains the universal tendency toward sin and the need for divine grace and forgiveness.
Need for Salvation: Highlights why every person needs redemption through Christ.

Practical Application:

Humility: Encourages believers to acknowledge their sinful nature and dependence on God’s grace and holy living though the Spirit. Gal. 5:16
Evangelism: Underlines the urgency of sharing the Gospel as the remedy for the sin condition of all humanity. Acts 4:12

Rejection of Contradictory Beliefs:

It firmly rejects Pelagianism (and similar views), which wrongly denies original sin by claiming humans are born innocent, sin only by imitating bad examples like Adam, and can achieve perfect righteousness through their own free will and efforts without needing God’s special grace to overcome our fallen nature.

VIII. Of Free Will

The condition of man after the fall of Adam is such that he cannot turn and prepare himself, by his own natural strength and works to faith, and calling upon God wherefore we have no power to do good works, pleasant and acceptable to God, without the grace of God by Christ preventing us, that we may have a good will, and working with us when we have that good will.

Concept: The grace of God come to all, enabling a person to choose and perform what is necessary for salvation.

Scriptural Basis:

Titus 2:11-12 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Also refer to John 6:44 and Isaish 64:6.

Historical Context:

This doctrine teaches that God’s grace restores free will to all people, allowing them to choose or reject salvation. This grace enables but does not guarantee a response to God’s offer of salvation through faith in Christ, preserving human freedom in the process of redemption.

Importance of the Doctrine:

Dependence on Grace: Emphasizes that salvation and good works are possible only through God’s grace.
Role of Grace: Highlights the necessity of God’s grace to initiate and sustain faith and good works. Romans 8:7-9

Practical Application:

Prayer for Grace: Encourages believers to seek God’s grace continually.
Humility in Service: Fosters humility, knowing that good works are enabled by God’s grace. Philippians 2:13

Rejection of Contradictory Beliefs:

Refutes any teaching that suggests humans can achieve salvation or perform good works acceptable to God, solely by their own willpower.

IX. Of the Justification of Man

We are accounted righteous before God only for the merit of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, by faith, and not for our own works or deserving’s. Wherefore, that we are justified by faith only is a most wholesome doctrine, and very full of comfort.

Concept: Humans are justified before God only by faith in Jesus Christ, not by their own works.

Scriptural Basis:

Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Romans 3:28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.

Historical Context:

Justification by faith alone was a central issue in the Protestant Reformation, strongly emphasized by Martin Luther and other Reformers.

Importance of the Doctrine:

Foundation of Salvation: Asserts that salvation is a gift from God received through faith, not earned by human effort.
Basis for Evangelism: Encourages sharing the message of grace and faith with others.

Practical Application:

Faith and Trust: Encourages believers to place their full trust in Christ’s finished work on the cross.
Freedom from Legalism: Liberates believers from trying to earn God’s favor through works.

Rejection of Contradictory Beliefs:

This is understood to mean that faith in Christ will naturally lead to good works/actions, instead of thinking that doing good works/actions is what makes someone justified or accepted by God.

X. Of Good Works

Although good works, which are the fruits of faith, and follow after Justification, cannot put away our sins and endure the severity of God’s judgments; yet are they pleasing and acceptable to God in Christ, and spring out of a true and lively faith, insomuch that by them a living faith may be as evidently known as a tree is discerned by its fruit.

Concept: Good works are the fruits of faith and follow after justification but do not justify us before God.

Scriptural Basis:

James 2:17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Historical Context:

The relationship between faith and works has been a topic of theological discussion, especially during the Reformation, to clarify that works are a result of faith, not a means to earn salvation.

Importance of the Doctrine:

Evidence of Faith: Good works demonstrate the presence of a true and living faith.
Glorify God: Good works are done to glorify God and reflect His character.
Witness to Others: They serve as a witness to others of God’s transforming power.

Practical Application:

Living Faith: Encourages believers to live out their faith through acts of love and service.
Ethical Living: Promotes a way of life that aligns with Christlike values and teachings.

Rejection of Contradictory Beliefs:

Refutes the idea that good works can earn or contribute to one’s justification before God.

XI. Of Works of Supererogation

Voluntary works besides, over, and above God’s commandments which are called works of supererogation, cannot be taught without arrogance and impiety. For by them men do declare that they do not only render unto God, as much as, they are bound to do, but that they do more for his sake that of bounded duty is required, whereas Christ saith plainly, “When ye have done all that is commanded of you, say, We are unprofitable servants.”

Concept: Voluntary works beyond God’s commandments are not necessary and can lead to arrogance.

Scriptural Basis:

Luke 17:10 So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.
Ephesians 2:8-9 Reaffirms that salvation is by grace through faith, not by works.

Historical Context:

During the Protestant Reformation, the idea of supererogatory works was challenged, especially against indulgences that promised remission of sins or reduced purgatory time. protestants rejected these practices, emphasizing that salvation comes through faith alone, not through extra works or purchases.

Importance of the Doctrine:

Simplicity of Faith: Emphasizes the sufficiency of Christ’s work and our duty to obey God’s commands without seeking to exceed them for merit.
Humility: Prevents pride and the belief that one can achieve a higher status before God through extra works.

Practical Application:

Obedient Living: Encourages believers to faithfully follow God’s commands.
Avoiding Pride: Promotes humility and reliance on God’s grace rather than personal achievements.

Rejection of Contradictory Beliefs:

Opposes any teaching that suggests believers can perform works that earn additional merit or favor with God beyond what is required.

XII. Of Sin after Justification

Not every sin willingly committed after justification is the sin against the Holy Ghost, and unpardonable. Wherefore, the grant of repentance is not to be denied to such as fall into sin after justification after we have received the Holy Ghost, we may depart from grace given, and fall into sin, and, by the grace of God, rise again and amend our lives. And therefore they are to be condemned who say they can no more sin as long as they live here, or deny the place of forgiveness to such as truly repent.

Concept: Christians can sin after justification, but repentance and forgiveness are available. People have free will, allowing them to either depart from God’s grace or return to God through repentance in Christ.

Scriptural Basis:

1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
James 5:19-20 Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.
1 Timothy 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;

Historical Context:

This clarification addressed the debate over the nature of sin after justification. It established that even after being justified, believers could still fall into sin but were able to repent and receive forgiveness. This stance challenged the views that sins committed after justification would make salvation unattainable or achieving perfect sinlessness in this life was possible.

Importance of the Doctrine:

Reality of Human Weakness: Recognizes that Christians are not free from the possibility of sinning yet far more gravely to the risk of apostasy.
Grace and Repentance: Maintains that repentance remains a vital part of the Christian life and that forgiveness is continually available through God’s grace.

Practical Application:

Confession and Repentance: Encourages regular self-examination, confession to God, and repentance.

Rejection of Contradictory Beliefs:

Condemns those who deny forgiveness (or the place of repentance/forgiveness) to those who truly repent after falling into sin. As well as those who claim that believers can reach a state of sinless perfection where sin becomes impossible in this life.

XIII. Of the Church

The visible Church of Christ is a congregation of faithful men in which the pure Word of God is preached, and the Sacraments duly administered according to Christ’s ordinance, in all those things that of necessity are requisite to the same.

Concept: The Church is the congregation of faithful people where the Word of God is preached and the Sacraments are rightly administered.

Scriptural Basis:

Ephesians 4:11-13 Describes the Church’s role in equipping believers and building up the body of Christ.
Acts 2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

Historical Context:

The understanding of the Church as a community of believers who gather for worship, teaching, and sacraments has been central since the early Christian communities.

Importance of the Doctrine:

Community of Believers: Affirms the importance of gathering together for mutual edification and worship.
Means of Grace: Highlights the Church’s role in administering the means of grace, such as preaching and sacraments such as the Lords Supper.
Mission and Witness: Emphasizes the Church’s mission to proclaim the Gospel and make disciples.

Practical Application:

Active Participation: Encourages believers to actively participate in their local church community.
Support and Accountability: Promotes a supportive environment where believers can grow in faith and holiness.

Rejection of Contradictory Beliefs:

Opposes the idea that the Church is merely a human institution or that it is unnecessary for Christian life.

XIV. Of Purgatory

The Romish doctrine concerning purgatory, pardon, worshipping and adoration, as well as, images of relics, and also invocation of saints, is a fond thing, vainly invented, and grounded upon no warrant of scripture, but repugnant to the Word of God.

Concept: The doctrine rejects the Roman Catholic teachings on purgatory, pardons, and the worship of images, relics, and saints, stating they have no basis in Scripture and are contrary to God’s Word.

Scriptural Basis:

Hebrews 9:27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.
Luke 23:43 Jesus tells the thief on the cross, “Today shalt thou be with me in paradise,” suggesting immediate entry into heaven without an intermediate state.

Historical Context:

The Protestant Reformation critiqued and rejected certain Roman Catholic doctrines, including purgatory and the associated practices of selling indulgences as unscriptural.

Importance of the Doctrine:

Scriptural Authority: Emphasizes that beliefs and practices must be based on clear biblical teaching.
Focus on Christ’s Sacrifice: Affirms that Christ’s sacrifice is sufficient for the forgiveness of sins, eliminating the need for an intermediate purging state.
Purity of Worship: Aims to maintain the purity of Christian worship by rejecting practices considered idolatrous or superstitious.

Practical Application:

Biblical Discernment: Encourages believers to evaluate doctrines and practices by their alignment with Scripture.
Christ-Centered Faith: Promotes a faith that relies solely on Christ’s atonement for salvation.

Rejection of Contradictory Beliefs:

Refutes the teachings on purgatory, emphasizing their lack of scriptural support and potential to lead believers away from true worship.

XV. Of Speaking in the Congregation in such a Tongue as the People Understand

It is a thing plainly repugnant to the Word of God. and the custom of the primitive Church, to have public prayer in the church, or to administer Sacraments, in a tongue not understood by the people.

Concept: Public worship, prayer, and sacraments should be conducted in a language understood by the people.

Scriptural Basis:

1 Corinthians 14:19 Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.
1 Corinthians 14:27-28 If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.
Acts 2:6: Describes how everyone heard the apostles speaking in their own languages on the day of Pentecost.

Historical Context:

This principle counters the medieval practice of conducting liturgies (acts of worship) in Latin, which was not understood by the common people, and was emphasized during the Reformation.

Importance of the Doctrine:

Accessibility: Ensures that all believers can understand and participate in worship.
Edification: Promotes the edification of the congregation by making the message clear and comprehensible.

Practical Application:

Use of Language: Encourages the use of the local language in church services.
Effective Communication: Ensures that teaching, preaching, and prayers are clearly understood by all.

Rejection of Contradictory Beliefs:

Opposes the use of languages in worship that are not understood by the congregation, as it hinders participation and edification.

XVI. Of the Sacraments

Sacraments ordained of Christ are not only badges or tokens of Christian men’s profession, but rather they are certain signs of grace, and God’s goodwill toward us by that which He doth work invisibly in us, and doth not only quicken, but also strengthen and confirm, our faith in Him.

Concept: Sacraments are not just symbols of Christian profession but are also means by which God strengthens our faith. A sacrament is a sacred ritual/ceremony/ordinance/event instituted by Jesus Christ, specifically baptism and the Lord’s Supper.

Scriptural Basis:

Matthew 28:19-20 Jesus commands baptism, emphasizing its significance as a key practice in the Christian faith.
1 Corinthians 11:23-26 Paul recounts Jesus’ institution of the Lord’s Supper, highlighting its importance and purpose.
Matthew 26:26-28, Mark 14:22-24, Luke 22:19-20

Historical Context:

Sacraments have been central to Christian worship and practice since the early Church.

Importance of the Doctrine:

Strengthening Faith: Highlights the role of sacraments in confirming and strengthening the believer’s faith.
Visible Signs of Invisible Grace: Emphasizes that sacraments are outward signs that signify inward spiritual realities.

Practical Application:

Faithful Participation: We recognize only two sacraments because Baptism and the Lord’s Supper have clear biblical mandates.
Understanding: The emphasis is on strengthening faith in Christ, not on sacraments as a method for earning salvation. Salvation comes through faith in Christ alone, as Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us.
Spiritual Growth: Recognizes the sacraments as means to grow in grace and faith.

Rejection of Contradictory Beliefs:

It rejects any sacraments beyond the two ordained by Christ (Baptism and the Lord’s Supper), or viewing them as meaningless symbols without God’s real grace, or misuses them instead of using them as biblically instructed.

Conclusion

The Articles of Religion are the core of our faith, uniting us in biblical teaching, worship, and beliefs within the Lumber River Conference of the Holiness Methodist Church. They honor our historical journey while guiding our present and future commitment to living out the truths of God’s Holy Word.