Supporting your church’s future effectiveness

Biblical Integrity

The Alliance does not have a "big tent" philosophy when it comes to its theological commitments or its understanding of Scripture. On primary doctrinal issues like: Is Jesus Christ and our response to the gospel of God the only way for people to be saved eternally? Yes. (Acts 4:12; Eph. 1:13-14; 2:4-10; John 1:12, 3:16, etc.). Did God create marriage from the beginning to be between one man and one woman? Yes. (Genesis 1:27-28; Mark 10:1-12; 1 Cor. 6:9-11; Eph. 5:21-33, etc.). We are choosing theological and missional agreement and practice based on the teaching of Scripture as written. That affinity will be founded on accountability across the Alliance of Reformed Churches that seeks spiritual intervention and relational discipline/restoration utilizing Covenant Keeper teams within Networks (accountability). A Ministry Oversight Team, made up of a member from each of the 30-50 church networks, will provide oversight and accountability for ordained leader. Should a leader not respond to local or network level requests, the Ministry Oversight Team will be able to suspend or remove credentials from an ordained leader. If you would like to read more on how to consider primary doctrines as we move into the 21st Century, check out, Finding the Right Hills to Die On: The Case for Theological Triage by Gavin Ortlund.

Empowerment of Local Congregations

The aim of the Alliance in its global alliance, regional networks (accountability), and local hubs (ministry) is to empower the mission effectiveness of local churches. Empowerment happens best when local congregational leaders and networks identify the equipping they need to move forward in mission. In addition, empowerment happens best when we agree on the calling that God has for us. The Alliance will seek to call its networks and congregations to live out Christlikeness in relationship to each other and to those who have yet to come under the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Local congregations were commissioned on Pentecost to embrace the Holy Spirit’s presence and power so that the lost are found, baptized, and discipled to obey all that Christ has commanded (in the gospels). Local congregations will be called to plant new congregations and invite other congregations into Alliance. Local congregations will be responsible to form and expand their (ministry) hubs to reach those God has called them to reach and to move (with conversation and in relationship) from one network to another to advance their Kingdom effectiveness.

Trust and Transparency

As an organization designed for the 21st century movement of the gospel, the Alliance will work to maintain a lean and agile polity. We are forming ourselves as a board-directed organization whose board members will come from each 30-50 congregational network. The Alliance will seek to have decisions made as close to the congregational leadership level as possible, while not yielding its missional or theological agreements. The Alliance will build its communication and decision-making around 21st Century technology and communication strategies. Leadership in all circles of influence will seek Christlikeness in serving others instead of being served; self-sacrifice instead of being self-preserving,; empowering instead of permission-seeking; and, living in step with the Holy Spirit rather than culture.