We accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, and recognize that he died not only for Christians, but for the whole world (1 Timothy 2:5,6; 4:10; John 3:16; 1 John 2:2). The Bible testimony is that Jesus died a Ransom for all mankind, and that this salvation is for all those willing to receive Christ when that opportunity is given them (1 Timothy 2:4-6; Romans 10:11,12; Acts 3:22-23).
Accepting the Bible as the inspired Word of God, we therefore accept the scriptural testimony to the effect that there are two opportunities of salvation indicated there: salvation for all, and a special salvation, the first resurrection, for believers of the present time (1 Tim. 4:10; Rev. 20:6). We understand that the present time is the time for the selection of the Church, which is the Body of Christ (Romans 8:14-17). And that the future time of blessing the world of mankind with an earthly kingdom, and the restitution of all things, will soon be upon us (Acts 15:15-17; Isaiah 65:21-25; Acts 3:19-21).
We accept the Bible as the inspired Word of God and study it in its entirety, seeking the harmony of the complete Scriptural testimony (2 Timothy 3:16,17). We believe that a topical study of the Bible is the most beneficial means of understanding God’s Word, and use a variety of study aids as helps to that end, in our weekly study meetings. Realizing that the Christian’s development is not complete without a sincere reverence for God and acknowledgment of his care over us, we also hold monthly meetings which focus is more of a devotional kind, with opportunity provided for sharing personal experiences of God’s providential care in our daily lives.
We encourage all who seek to serve God in the present time to a personal consecration of their all to God, accepting the trials and sufferings that come to them daily as not worthy of comparison with the joys and glories to come. (Romans 12:1,2; 8:17-19 & 22-23; 2 Timothy 2:11,12)
Portland Area Bible Students