What We Believe

Rochester First Church of the Nazarene belongs to the Nazarene denomination which is the largest denomination in the classical Wesleyan-Holiness tradition. The doctrine that distinguishes the Church of the Nazarene and other Wesleyan denominations from most other Christian denominations is that of entire sanctification. Nazarenes believe that God calls Christians to a life of holy living that is marked by an act of God, cleansing the heart from original sin and filling the individual with love for God and humankind.

We believe in one God, the Creator of all things,
who reveals himself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
1 John 1:5; 1 Corinthians 10:13; 2 Peter 3:9; Genesis 1:1;
James 1:17; John 3:16; Numbers 23:19; Psalm 116:5

We believe in Jesus Christ, who is fully God and fully man at the same time. Humbly, He became like us to redeem and restore us to a right relationship with God. He is the only way to God the Father.
John 1:14; Colossians 1:15–17; John 14:9–11; Colossians 2:9

We believe the Holy Spirit empowers and equips all believers to live holy lives. The Spirit of the living God moves within us so that we may be the visible presence of an invisible God in our world.
2 Corinthians 3:17

We believe that the Bible is the living Word of God. We stand on the promises of His Word and refuse to water down His message.
2 Timothy 3:16–17; Romans 15:4; Matthew 24:35;
Psalm 119:105; Hebrews 4:12

We believe sin separates us from God. In our own strength we can
do nothing to fix the problem of sin. However, through the love and
grace of God by the death and resurrection of His Son the sins of all
Christ followers are washed away.
Romans 3:23–24; Isaiah 40:28–31

We believe that the church is the Body of Christ, carrying out His mission and advancing His kingdom in the world through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Matthew 18:20; 1 Corinthians 14:26

We believe that baptism is an outward expression of the inward decision to make Jesus Lord of your life. Baptism is not only an act of obedience but it is also a celebration of a transformed life.
1 Peter 3:21; Acts 22:16; Galatians 3:27

We believe that prayer is foundational for every Christ follower. Prayer is essential to connecting us to the heart  of God. As we grow deeper in our connection with God through prayer He moves in our lives and in our world.
Ephesians 6:18; Mark 11:24; Psalm 17:6; Luke 11:2–4; Philippians 4:6

Our dedicated Prayer Team prays over a list of submitted prayer requests regularly. Submit a prayer request for a situation or person you would like to be included on the prayer list.

We believe that we are better together. Generosity is an attitude that puts others and God’s kingdom before self. Generosity with our financial resources demonstrates our trust in God, our gratitude toward His provision, and it demonstrates our desire to be a part of advancing His kingdom.
Leviticus 25:35–37; Deuteronomy 15:7–8; Psalm 41:1–3

We believe that every person within the Body of Christ has a purpose and a function. The Church works at its optimal level when all of its people are committed to advancing God’s kingdom. Therefore we place a high value on serving within our church, in our local community, and in our world.
1 Corinthians 12:4–6

We believe in the practice of the Lord’s Supper. Several times a year
we dedicate a time in our services to remember sacrifice of Christ’s
broken body and shed blood for the forgiveness of sin. We practice
open communion, meaning that all Christ followers, regardless of
background or denomination, are welcome to participate.
Luke 22:19–20; Matthew 26:26–28; John 6:53–58; 1 Corinthians 11:23–26

If you would like more info about our beliefs, joining the church, or being baptized then please fill out the form below and we will reach out to you.