What we Value
BROAD FOUNDATIONAL VALUES
At the heart of what ICC is seeking to do is a set of foundational values that are non-negotiable for us. They are not so much the clothes we wear, but are the things that provide an ongoing source of life, light, peace, strength and power. All of these represent an ongoing passion for increase but have always provided the solid rock for us to stand upon.
THE CENTRALITY OF THE PERSON OF JESUS CHRIST
Jesus is the head of the whole church and we are a part expression of that church in the Moreton Bay Region. Our chief aim is to honour Him, serve Him, worship Him and represent Him in everything we do, a close personal relationship with Jesus Christ being seen as the highest goal.
All that is done and achieved for the Kingdom of God must be overshadowed by a passion to see Jesus glorified.
THE AUTHORITY OF THE WORD OF GOD (THE BIBLE)
The Bible is our reference point in all aspects of our life and ministry. The Bible is the primary way we hear from God. Biblical principles are applied to all aspects of life and the Bible is acknowledged as the final authority over all that is said and done.
THE DYNAMIC PRESENCE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
We have been empowered by the Spirit and seek to represent Jesus by means of the Holy Spirit’s power. The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity. He is our Comforter and the ‘One called alongside’. The evidences of supernatural workings of the Holy Spirit are desired, sought and expected.
PRAYER AND WORSHIP
We are so grateful for the opportunity to experience individual and corporate intimacy with the Father and the Son as it is available through prayer and worship. The whole church is to be committed to prayer and worship as the only basis for all aspects of Christian living and ministry.
Every activity and venture must be saturated with prayer, seeking the Father’s heart and will in all that is done.
EVANGELISM AND MISSIONS
We have noted the bias God has toward people who are lost from Him. The church exists for the dual benefit of those who are part of it and for those who are not yet part of the Kingdom of God. Evangelism and Missions at times need to be a concerted and intentional action of Church. However, every individual must realize that Evangelism and Missions are not an event, but rather a lifestyle of the church, both locally and globally, demonstrating the gospel in word, deed and signs.
DISCIPLESHIP AND EQUIPPING
We are committed to the ‘intentional growth’ and the equipping of every individual. Our aim is the commission of Jesus to turn new converts into disciples – mature, committed followers of Jesus through teaching, training, mentoring, releasing, etc., and teaching them to do the same to others.
We desire to discover what God has placed in the hearts of individuals and are determined to see those things fulfilled in their lives.
LEADERSHIP
Team/plurality of leadership is acknowledged as scriptural. Christian leadership is a function and not a position of ‘lordship’ or control. Those in leadership must lead with a Christ-like example and exist to enable the body of Christ to become ‘mature’ in the Lord Jesus.
This type of leadership is committed to raising up new leaders in all areas of life.
PEOPLE FIRST
People are priority above programs, activities and economics. The intrinsic value of each individual is recognized as God-given and is not determined by status, gifting or abilities.
HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS
Life changing transformation happens best in relationships. A key component to this is not merely a friendly church, but also a church of friends who are determined to keep a ‘bond of peace’ and where necessary be reconciled.
CULTURALLY RELEVANT AND CONTEMPORARY
Meeting people where they are at, speaking and ministering into their situations are important values; a contemporary, non-threatening style in which a high regard is given to guests/pre-believers will be reflected in all that is done.
EXCELLENCE AND GENEROSITY
Excellence is doing things ‘with purpose’, doing the best with what is available and aiming for quality, but not to the detriment of people or the gospel. An attitude of generosity in all things and on all occasions is encouraged.