Faith and Values

VCA Virtual

Articles of Faith

Article 1 – Name and Purpose

Section 1.01 – Name

This school, Victory Christian Academy (VCA), is organized as a non-profit school entity for educational purposes within the meaning of Section 501( c ) ( 3 ) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (or the corresponding provision of any future United States Revenue Law), including, but not limited to, for such purposes exclusively under the State of Wisconsin to further establish and maintain biblical and educational foundations that are consistent with our purpose and mission in the greater Milwaukee area. VCA-Virtual is a campus of VCA.

Our purpose is educating children and youth to be equipped for entering careers or for entering and finishing college as lifelong learners.

We are a ministry arm of the Pentecostals of Wisconsin church with a focus on religious worship, the building of churches, schools, chapels, rescue missions, daycare centers; the evangelizing of the unsaved by the proclaiming of the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ; the educating of believers in a manner consistent with the requirements of Holy Scripture, both in Sunday and weekday schools of Christian education; and the maintaining of missionary activities in the United States and any foreign country.

Statement of Faith

Victory Christian Academy – Virtual’s values are anchored in Christ-hearted living. We facilitate an environment where students, through their faith and relationship with God, develop and exhibit kindness, strength, integrity, honesty, and grace for themselves, their peers and their staff members.

Article 2 – Statement of Faith and Covenant

Section 2.01 – Statement of Faith
The following comprise the Scriptural beliefs of this school, the church and its members.

A. The Holy Scriptures. We believe the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testament to be the verbally and plenarily inspired Word of God. The scriptures are inerrant, infallible, and God-breathed and, therefore, are the final authority for faith and life. The sixty-six books of the Old and New Testament are the complete and divine revelation of God to man. The Scriptures shall be interpreted according to their normal grammatical-historical meaning, and all issues of interpretation and meaning shall be determined by the pastor. The King James Version of the Bible shall be the official translation used by the church and school–(2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21). However, teachers and instructors may use other translations of the Bible with prior consent from the VCA administrator or the Pastor.

B. Dispensationalism. We believe that the Scriptures interpreted in their natural, literal sense reveal divinely determined dispensations or rules of life which define man’s responsibilities in successive ages. These dispensations are not ways of salvation, but rather are divinely ordered stewardships by which God directs man according to His purpose. Three of these dispensations—the law, the church, and the kingdom—are the subjects of detailed revelation in Scripture–(Genesis 1:28; I Corinthians 9:17; 2 Corinthians 3:9-18; Galatians 3:13-25; Ephesians 1:10; 3:2-10; Colossians 1:24-25, 27; Revelation 20:2-6)

C. The Godhead–One Lord. We believe that there is only one God who is Spirit–omnipresent, omnipotent who has not been seen nor touched—(John 4:24, I Timothy 6:15-16, Psalm139:7-8, Isaiah 66:1-2, Jeremiah23:24, I Kings 8:27, John 3:13). Since God is Spirit, creator of everything, having no flesh and bones, we believe that He is beyond our imagination (comprehension). We believe that God is the creator of everything and is able to do anything. This same God was known as “Word” and “Spirit” but was never seen by anyone in bodily form—(Deuteronomy 4:9-24; Genesis 3:8; John 1:1-12; Luke 24:39).

We proclaim this same God, because He is Spirit, as the Father. He was manifested as the only creator and Father of all creatures—(Isaiah 44:6-8, 24; Deuteronomy 32:39-40). We also believe when the fullness of the time was come, He was manifested as the Son to save humanity. He was revealed to renew and sanctify (purify) and to pour out His spirit upon those who will believe in Him—(John 3:5 & 34; 1 Corinthians 6:11; Titus 3:5; 2 Corinthians 5:19; 1 Timothy 2:5; John 4:24; Genesis 17:1; Exodus 6:3; Psalm 139; 1Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 45:5-6 & 48:12-13; Revelation 1:8 &17:18, Romans 8:9-10; 2 Corinthians 3:17; Acts 2:1-4 &17; Matthew 1:20-23; Isaiah 7:13-14 & 8:8 & 9:6 & John 20:20).
“Have we not all one father? Hath not one God created us?”— (Malachi 2:10; Deuteronomy 6:4; Mark 12:29; I Corinthians 8:5-6; Romans 9:5; James 2:19; Ephesians 4:6; Zechariah 14:9). These verses confirm to us that in the latter days the Lord shall be king over all the earth, and there shall be one Lord and His name One.

The Son of God 1. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God, without ceasing to be God, was the Word that became flesh. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary, in order that He might reveal God and redeem sinful men–(Isaiah 7:14; 9:6; Luke 1:35; John 1:1-2, 14; 2 Corinthians 5:19-21; Galatians 4:4-5; Philippians 2:5-8).

2. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ accomplished our redemption through His death on the cross as a representative, vicarious, sustitutionary sacrifice; and, that our justification is made sure by His literal, physical resurrection from the dead–(Acts 2:18-36; Romans 3:24-25; Ephesians 1:7; 1 Peter 2:24; 1 Peter 1:3-5)

3. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ ascended to heaven and is now exalted at the right hand of God where, as our High Priest, He fulfills the ministry of Representative, Intercessor, and Advocate–(Acts 1:9; Romans 8:34; Hebrews 9:24; 1 John 2:1-2).

4. We believe He became flesh in the likeness of men and walked on this earth, going through persecution, suffering, and affliction as an example to us. His body hung on the cross and died to save mankind. Christ was resurrected on the third day through the power of his Father. He was received up into glory and returned back to His eternal glory and authority–(Isaiah 7:13-14 & 9:6)

5. We believe that the Spirit as the Father and the Flesh as the Son of God are one. In His deity, He is God the Father and He is also the creator of the heavens and the earth–(John 1:9-10 & 2:19-21:12:44-45 & 14:1-10; Romans 8:9-11 & 9:5; Colossians 1:15-17; Revelations 1:17-18; 4:2 & 8-11; 5:13; 7:10-12; 1 John 2:23, 1 Timothy 2:5, and Matthew 1:23).

6. Some might ask if His father is in Him, then why does Jesus look up to the heavens and pray? Our answers are found in Isaiah chapter 53; 2 Corinthians 5:18-21; Jeremiah 31:31-34 and Ephesians 2:1-20. These scriptures show us that Christ was not doing this from his own separate will, but that he was doing the work of reconciliation. If one is not careful he/she might fail to recognize or diminish the work that Jesus was accomplishing on our behalf–(John 1:1-14, 14:11 & 6:62-63; Luke1: 35; 1 Timothy 2:5;1 John 2:23 & 4:13; Hebrews 1:3, 2:14-18 & 5:7; Colossians 1:15-17,19-23 & 2:9; Matthew 27; Mark 16:1-20 and Revelation 1:8-13).

7. We believe that God is revealed to mankind through Christ. Jesus Christ is the Son of God—being manifested in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, and received up into glory. Jesus is the only One True God.

E. The Holy Spirit. 1. We believe that God, the Father, is a Spirit that cannot be touched nor limited to a space—John 4:24. God, being a spirit, has no flesh and bones–(Luke 24:39; Job 32:8 & 33:4; Genesis 2:7; John 20:22; 1 Corinthians 10:1-4; and Luke 3:22).

2. We believe that the Holy breath (Spirit) comes from God to bring life, renew and sanctify the lives of every individual. Holy Spirit means sanctified spirit or the breath of God. We believe that God’s Holy Spirit (breath) can be poured out continually from the Father–(John 3:34 & 7:37-39; Acts 1:5, 2:1-4, 4:31 & 10:44-47 & Psalm 33:5-6). It is written that God gives a portion of His Spirit to every man according to His will. The Spirit cannot be measured or seen with the human eyes as with a body.

3. We believe that God the Father is the creator and originator of life and through His breath He gave us His sanctified spirit; it is called the Holy Spirit. The breath of God comes out of Him daily; we cannot count it, measure it, and it cannot be limited to a body.

4. We believe that when God pours out His Spirit on an individual, that person is filled or baptized with the Spirit. We have scriptural evidence that a person can be refilled with God’s Spirit repeatedly and God is able to pour out His Spirit time and time again which indicates that Holy Spirit is not limited to a body–(Acts 2:17; 4:31 &10:44).

5. We believe that even though the Holy Ghost has been portrayed as a dove, wind, mighty rushing wind, oil, water, fire, cloud, it does not mean it has the eternal portrayal (permanent image) of these expressions–(Acts 2:1-4; 1 John 2:27; 1 Corinthians 10:1-4; Exodus 13:20-21 & 14:24 and Numbers 9:15-23).

F. The Total Depravity of Man. We believe that man was created in the image and likeness of God; but that in Adam’s sin the human race fell, inherited a sinful nature, and became alienated from God. Man is totally depraved and, of himself, utterly unable to remedy his lost condition-(Genesis 1:26-27; Romans 3:22-23; 5:12; 6:23; Ephesians 2:1-3; 4:17-19).

G. Salvation. We believe that salvation is a gift of God brought to man by grace and received by personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, whose precious blood was shed on Calvary for the forgiveness of our sins. We believe that all sins, except blasphemy of the Holy Spirit are forgivable–(Matthew 12:31; John 1:12; Ephesians 1:7; 2:8-10; 1 Peter 1:18-19; 1 John 1:9).

H. Benefit of Repentance. We believe that there is a benefit of one having repentance before baptism –which is a complete regret and turning the heart from sin to earn God’s forgiveness—(Ezekiel 18:21-32). Repentance means the changing of the thoughts and the heart, and the change of a life style; it also means to completely die to the world and sin—(Colossians 3:1-10). The Bible in Matthew 3:2 & 8; Mark 1:14-15 and Luke 3:3-6 indicates that John the Baptist was in the wilderness preaching repentance. Luke 13:3 reads, “…Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” It is also written in Luke 24:47, “And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.”

I. Water Baptism. 1. We believe in baptism for the remission of sin. We believe what the Gospel says about turning to God in repentance. The next step is that the Bible tells us people be baptized for the remission of sin, inherited sin, and inherited flesh–(Acts 2:38; 3, 19-20, 11:18 &17:30; Ezekiel 18:31; Hosea 14:2; Ezra 10:11; Galatians 3:27).

2. We believe that repentance epitomizes death, baptism exemplifies burial and coming out of the water symbolizes being resurrected in a new and eternal life. Every individual is required to accomplish two things after repentance. First he must recognize that he is a sinner and turn from his biblical sin by complying with the Word of God. Secondly because flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, he must “Put on Christ” through water baptism according to Philippians 3:21 and Colossians 1:11-14.

3. We believe in and follow the same baptism that the original church (that the twelve Apostles established in the Day of Pentecost) was founded on—(Acts 2:38, 8:12-17, 10:43-48, 19:1-6 & 22:16; Ephesians 4:4-6; & Luke 24:47).

4. We believe that unless a person is called by God and is a minister who has good report within the authority of the church, he is not worthy of baptizing other–(Acts 15:7-8, 24-26; 13:1-3, 2Tim.1:6-11; 2:1-6).

5. We believe in total immersion for baptism. In Acts 8:36-37, The Ethiopian eunuch had said to the Evangelist Philip “…see, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?” Philip responded, “If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest.” In accordance with the scriptures, we believe that we are to baptized or immersed in water in Jesus name for the remission of sins. (Mark 16:16; Acts 8:12-17; John 3:23; Matthew 3:13-16)

6. We believe in baptizing in Jesus Name–that the mystery of being baptized in Jesus Name is burying the old Adamic fleshly nature and being resurrected in the new body and life of the new Adam, Jesus Christ, through baptism–(Ephesians 5:20). The Greek word “baptiso” means “to be buried” or “to go under” therefore we baptize in Jesus Name by totally immersing under deep water.

7. We believe that we are baptized to become witnesses on earth that just as Christ was resurrected from the grave, conquering death and hell, we are also resurrected into a new life. Through Him we are victorious over death and hell—(John 3:5; Acts 8:34-39 & 22:16; Titus 3:5; Matthew 28:19; 1 Peter 3:18-22; Luke 24:47; Romans 6:3-4; Colossians 2:11-14; Galatians 3:27; Ephesians 5:26; Hebrews 12:22-24; Leviticus 16:4-24; Numbers 8:7&19:7-13; Isaiah 1:16; Exodus 14:21-31; Ezekiel 36:25-27, 37:1-14 & 44:9; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11,15:29, 45-50 & 55-57, 2 Corinthians 5:16-17; Philippians 3:17-21; Galatians 2:20; Colossians 3:1-4 &10 and Revelations 1:17-18).

8. We believe in baptizing only in Jesus name. We find no evidence in the Bible where anyone is being baptized in the names of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost and we also do not see the Apostles baptizing in these titles. Since baptism is a type of death and burial, we know that neither the Father nor the Holy Ghost can die and be buried; it is only through the sacrifice of Jesus that we can gain salvation.

Therefore:
• We die in repentance with the Christ that was dead and resurrected.
• We are baptized in Jesus Name to blot out the old Adam with the handwriting of the ordinance (the curse) that was against us and by faith we are buried with Him.
• When we come out of the water, which is the likeness of His resurrection, we have the assurance that we were resurrected with Him and we now can declare to the world by faith we have put on Christ’s heavenly flesh and blood.
• Through Colossians 2:13-14, we know that there are two things that are removed when we are baptized:
1. All of our trespasses
2. The old nature (Adam) with the handwriting of ordinances. See Galatians 3:27 & 1 Corinthians 15:39-50

J. Baptism of the Holy Ghost 1. We believe in the Baptism of the Holy Ghost according to the scriptures in Matthew 3:11; Isaiah 28:9-13; Mark 9:49; Acts 1:5-8, 2:1-4,17, 38 &10:44-47; Ezekiel 36:25-27; Job 2:28-32 and Zechariah 10:1, which clearly explain there is a Holy Ghost baptism. We see the evidence of this baptism in the transformation of our lives with speaking in tongues or in a new (heavenly) language. The Holy Ghost is the grace by which our lives are changed or rehabilitated.

2. We believe that the Holy Ghost heals our inner being (spirit). Even if we are baptized by water in Jesus Name, unless we are baptized with the Holy Ghost, we cannot receive a complete salvation–(Titus 3:4-8 and John 3:5-6).

3. We believe that the gift of the Holy Ghost is offered to everyone that will believe— (Mark 16:17; Acts 2:17; 1 Corinthians 14:2-39). If anyone is thirsty to receive the Holy Ghost, he can receive it in the way that is described in Acts 2:1-4, 4:31 & 19:1-6.

4. We fervently deem that the baptism of the Holy Ghost and the baptism of water are essential for our rebirth. He that is born of water and of the Spirit is saved from the eternal penalty of death— (John 3:1-6; Titus 3:4-8; Acts 8:12-17 & 19:1-6 & Ezekiel 36:25-27).

K. The Church 1. We believe that the local church, which is the body and the espoused bride of Christ, is solely made up of born-again persons–(1 Corinthians 12:12-14; 2 Corinthians 11:2; Ephesians 1:22-23; 5:25-27).

2. We believe that the establishment and continuance of local churches is clearly taught and defined in the New Testament Scriptures–(Acts 14:27; 20:17, 28-32; 1 Timothy 3:1-13; Titus 1:5-11)

3. We believe in the autonomy of the local church free of any external authority or control–(Acts 13:1-4; 15:19-31; 20:28; Romans 16:1, 4; 1 Corinthians3:9, 16; 5:4-7; 13; 1 Peter 5:1-4).

4. We recognize water baptism and the Lord’s Supper as the Scriptural ordinances of obedience for the church in this age–(Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 2:41-43; 8:36-38; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26).

5. We believe that Christ is the head of the Church. Even though the church has many members, the Saints are gathered in harmony and unity (having one heart, and one soul and mind) through Christ Jesus. We become one body (The Church) through baptism in Jesus Name and the infilling of the Holy Spirit.

6. We believe as the member of His body we are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, and a peculiar people; that we should show forth the praises of Him that has called us from this corrupted generation. We are called out of this world to live a holy lifestyle. We are called to be servants of His holy kingdom to walk in His marvelous light—(Acts 2:1, 40-42 & 5:12; 1 Peter 2:9-10; 1 Corinthians 12:12-13; Colossians 2:19; John 13:35 & 15:17).

• We have recognized and believed from the teachings and the practices of the apostles that God hath set some in the church to be apostles, prophets, teachers, pastors and evangelists. He has also ordained miracles, gifts of healings, helps, and governments. He also has established diversities of tongues and interpreters of the tongues.

• We believe because of these godly ministries we have to come into the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of Christ Jesus. We have to grow unto perfection, and unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ—(Ephesians 4:11-13; 1 Corinthians 12:1-13, 28, 14:23-33 & 40; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Matthew chapter 10 & 16:18-19; Luke 10:16 and Mark chapter 16).

7. We believe according to the word of God that becoming a shepherd of the fold (apostle, prophet, teacher, pastor, or evangelist) is an enormous responsibility and commission. Anyone serving in any of these ministries has to be chosen and called by God. Before he can minister in his calling he has to be elected and anointed by the Spirit of God–Acts 20:28, Matthew 16:18-19 and John 21:15-17.
• According to the instructions given in Matthew 9:37-38 and in Acts 13:1-3, after praying and asking God the church is given the authority to teach the evangelists and ministers that are called by God and send them into the harvest field—(1 Corinthians 6:1-3; 1 Timothy 1:12 & 6:3-5; Acts 15:6-7, 22-23 & 20:28; John chapter 16; Titus 1:5; 2 Timothy 1:10-14 & 3:10-17).
• Since our Lord did not send His disciples without training them, the Bible teaches us the church should not send out people without teaching and training—(Matthew 28:19-20; Galatians 1:6-12; Acts 2:42, 18:9-11 & 20:20-32; 2 Timothy 3:10-17 and Mark 16:11-15).

8. We also believe the church has the authority to take people out of the ministry that will not walk uprightly, such as Demos, Diotrephes, Judas, and Lucifer—(Jude 2-23; 2 John 8-12; 3 John 9-12; Titus 1:10-16; 2 Peter 2:1-22; 1 Timothy 1:3-12; John 20:23; Matthew 18:15-20; Acts chapter 15; 16:4; Hebrews 13:17; Isaiah chapter 14; Ezekiel chapter 28; 1 Corinthians 5:1-13 and Numbers 16:17).

• Our Savior taught His disciples, “…be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren. And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven. Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.” Matthew 23:8-11. Therefore within the church we believe the highest title we will give each other will be only brother and sister—(Romans 16:1; Revelation 12:10-11; Philemon 1-2; 1 Corinthians 5:11; Mark 10:35-45). We use the term “Reverend” only because it means servant or one that ministers.

9. We believe that the church was built upon the foundation of the faith and teaching of the twelve apostles and the prophets (the writers of the holy books before the apostle’s time). Therefore, we believe every one that has received the gospel and the doctrine of the apostles and the prophets, is the disciple of our Lord and His apostles– (Matthew 16:18-19 &18:19-20; John 13:35; Ephesians 2:20; Acts 15:1-18 and 2 Peter 1:16-20)
10. We believe that whoever accepts the apostles, accepts the Lord Jesus and whoever accepts Jesus, accepts the Father–(Luke 10:16; 2 Peter 3:1-2; Matthew 13:11, chapter 23 & 28:10-20; Ephesians 3:5-6; 1 Thessalonians 1:2-12 & 4:1-3; I Corinthians 4:1-2 & chapter 15; Jude 3-4 &17; 2 Timothy 3:10-17; Deuteronomy 18:18 and Galatians 1:6-12)

L. Separation. We believe that all the saved should live in such a manner as not to bring reproach upon their Savior and Lord. God commands His people to separate from all religious apostasy, all worldly and sinful pleasures, practices and associations, and to refrain from all immodest and immoderate appearances, piercings, and bodily markings–(Leviticus 19:28; Romans 12:1-2; 14:13; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 2 Corinthians 6:14; 7:1; 2 Timothy 3:1-5; 1 John 2:15-17; 2 John 9-11).

M. The Eternal State. 1. We believe in the bodily resurrection of all men, the saved to eternal life, and the unsaved to judgment and everlasting punishment–(Matthew 25:46; John 5:28, 29; 11:25-26; Revelation 20:5-6, 12-13).

2. We believe that the souls of the redeemed are, at death, absent from the body and present with the Lord, where in conscious bliss they await the first resurrection, when spirit, soul, and body are reunited to be glorified forever with the Lord–(Luke 23:43; 2 Corinthians 5:8; Philippians 1:23; 3:21: 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; Revelation 20:4-6).

3. We believe that the souls of the unbelievers remain, after death, in conscious punishment and torment until the second resurrection, when with soul and body reunited, they shall appear at the Great White Throne Judgment, and shall be cast into the Lake of Fire, not to be annihilated, but to suffer everlasting conscious punishment and torment–(Matthew 25:41-46; Mark 9:43-48; Luke 16:19-26, 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9; Jude 6-7; Revelation 20:11-15).

N. The Personality of Satan. We believe that Satan is a person, the author of sin and the cause of the Fall of Man; that he is the open and declared enemy of God and man; and that he shall be eternally punished in the Lake of Fire. (Job 1:6-7; Isaiah 14:12-17; Matthew 4:2-11; Revelation 20:10)

O. The Origin of Mankind. We believe in the beginning, man was made of the dust in the image of God but with a corruptible flesh. He was living in the Garden of Eden fulfilling the will of God—(Genesis 1:27 & 2:7-8). The Bible makes us know that man subsequently, through his own lust, trespassed the commandment of God and was thrown into sin and the earth’s suffering—(Genesis 2:16-17 & 3:1-24). Therefore the wages of sin became death and sin was passed upon all men—(Romans 6:23 & 5:12-21; Genesis 3:19).

P. Civil Government. We believe that God has ordained and created all authority consisting of three basic institutions: (1) The home, (2) the church, and (3) the state. Every person is subject to these authorities, but all (including the authorities themselves) are answerable to God and governed by His Word. God has given each institution specific Biblical responsibilities and balanced those responsibilities with the understanding that no institution has the right to infringe upon each other. The home, the church, and the state are equal and sovereign in their respective biblically assigned spheres of responsibility under God–(Romans 13:1-7; Ephesians 5:22-24; Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 2:13-14)

Q. Human Sexuality. 1. We believe that human sexuality was given by God both as a means of human reproduction and as a means to help bond a male and a female in a one-flesh union (Genesis 2:24). Because of its inherent power, God placed restrictions on human sexuality. As such the Bible presents fornication, adultery, polygamy, homosexuality, bestiality, incest, and transgenderism as improper expressions of human sexuality. (The Biblical View of Human Sexuality, UPCI General Board, 2015)

2. We believe that God has commanded that no intimate sexual activity be engaged outside of marriage between one man and one woman. We believe that any form of homosexuality, lesbianism, bisexuality, bestiality, incest, fornication, adultery, and pornography are sinful perversions of God’s gift of sex. We believe that God disapproves of and forbids any attempt to alter ones’ gender by surgery or appearance–(Genesis 2:24; Genesis 19:5, 13; Genesis 26:8-9; Leviticus 18:1-30; Romans 1:26-29; 1 Corinthians 5:1; 6:9; 1 Thessalonians 4:1-9; Hebrews 13:4)

3. We believe that the only Scriptural marriage is the joining of one man and woman—(Genesis 2:24; Romans 7:2; 1 Corinthians 7:10; Ephesians 5:22-23).

4. We believe that the Genesis account shows God’s intent as heterosexuality, with definite boundaries between sexes in both appearance and behavior. Men are to act and appear as men; women are to act and appear as women (Deuteronomy 22:5; I Corinthians 6:9). Attempts to alter gender as in hormonal intervention or sex-reassignment surgery must be seen as a form of bodily mutilation (Leviticus 22:24-25) and an attempt to alter God’s design.

R. Family Relationships. 1. We believe that men and women are spiritually equal in position before God but that God has ordained distinct and separate spiritual functions for men and women in the home and the church. The husband is to be the leader of the home, and men are to be the leaders (pastors and deacons) of the church. Accordingly, only men are eligible for licensure and ordination by the church. (Galatians 3:28; Colossians 3:18; 1 Timothy 2:8-15; 3:4-5, 12)

2. We believe that God has ordained the family as the foundational institution of human society. The husband is to love his wife as Christ loves the church. The wife is to submit herself to the Scriptural leadership of her husband as the church submits to the headship of Christ. Children are a heritage from the Lord. Parents are responsible for teaching their children spiritual and moral values and leading them, through consistent lifestyle example and appropriate discipline, including Scriptural corporal correction. (Genesis1:26-28; Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Psalm 127:3-5; Proverbs 19:18; 22:15; 23:13-14; Mark 10:6-12, 1 Corinthians 7:1-16; Ephesians 5:21-33; 6:1-4, Colossians 3:8-21; Hebrews 13:4; 1 Peter 3:1-7)

S. Divorce and Remarriage. We believe that God disapproves of and forbids divorce and intends marriage to last until one of the spouses die. Divorce and remarriage is regarded as adultery except on the grounds of fornication. Although divorced and remarried persons or divorced persons may hold positions of service in the church and be greatly used of God for Christian service, they may not be considered for the offices of pastor. (Malachi 2:14-17, Matthew 19:3-12; Romans 7:1-3; 1 Timothy 3:2, 12; Titus 1:6)

T. Abortion. We believe that human life begins at conception and that the unborn child is a living human being. Abortion constitutes the unjustified, unexcused taking of unborn human life. Abortion is murder. We reject any teaching that abortions of pregnancies due to rape, incest, birth defects, gender selection, birth, or population control, or for the physical or mental well being of the mother are acceptable–(Job 3:16; Psalm 51:5; 139:14-16; Isaiah 44:24; 49:1, 5; Jeremiah 1:5, 20:15-18; Luke 1:44).

U. Euthanasia. We believe that the direct taking of an innocent human life is morally evil, regardless of the intention. Life is a gift of God and must be respected from conception until natural death. Thus, we believe that an act or omission which, of itself or by intention, causes death in order to eliminate suffering constitutes murder contrary to the will of God. Discontinuing medical procedures that are extraordinary or disproportionate to the expected outcome can be a legitimate refusal of over-zealous treatment–(Exodus 20:13, 23:7; Matthew 5:21; Acts 17:28)

V. Love. We believe that we should demonstrate love for others, not only toward fellow believers, but also toward both those who are not believers, those who oppose us, and those who engage in sinful actions. We are to deal with those who oppose us graciously, gently, patiently, and humbly. God forbids the stirring up of strife, the taking of revenge, or the threat or use of violence as a means of resolving personal conflict or obtaining personal justice. Although God commands us to abhor sinful actions, we are to love and pray for any person who engages in such sinful actions–(Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 5:44-48; Luke 6:31; John 13:34-35; Romans 12:9-10; 17-21; 13:8-10; Philippians 2:2-4; 2 Timothy 2:24-26; Titus 3:2; 1 John 3:17-18).

W. Lawsuits between Believers. We believe that Christians are prohibited from bringing civil lawsuits against other Christians or the church to resolve personal disputes. We believe the church possesses all the resources necessary to resolve personal disputes between members. We do believe, however, that a Christian may seek compensation for injuries from another Christian’s insurance company as long as the claim is pursued without malice or slander-(1 Corinthians 6:1-8; Ephesians 4:31-32)

X. Missions. We believe that God has given the church a great commission to proclaim the Gospel to all nations so that there might be a great multitude from every nation, tribe, ethnic group, and language group who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. As Ambassadors of Christ, we must use all available means to go to foreign nations and not wait for them to come to us–(Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:46-48; John 20:21; Acts 1:8; 2 Corinthians 5:20).

Y. Giving. We believe that every Christian, as a steward of that portion of God’s wealth entrusted to him, is obligated to financially support the local church. We believe that God has established the tithe as a basis for giving, but that every Christian should also give other offerings sacrificially and cheerfully to the support of the church, Christian Education, the relief of those in need, and the spread of the Gospel. We believe that a Christian relinquishes all rights to direct the use of his tithe or offering once the gift has been made. (Genesis 14:20; Proverbs 3:9-10; Acts 4:34-37; 1 Corinthians 16:2; 2 Corinthians 9:6-7; Galatians 6:6; Ephesians 4:28; 1 Timothy 5:17-18, 1 John 3:17)

Section 2.02 – Authority of the Statement of Faith

The Statement of Faith does not exhaust the extent of our faith. The Bible itself is the sole and final source of all that we believe. We do believe, however, that the foregoing Statement of Faith accurately represents the teaching of the Bible and, therefore, is binding upon all members. All literature used in the school shall be in complete agreement with the Statement of Faith.

Section 2.03 – Covenant

Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God, to be born again according to New Testament teachings, we do now, in the presence of God, angels, and this assembly, most solemnly and joyfully enter into covenant with one another, as one body in Christ.
We engage, therefore by the aid of the Holy Spirit, to walk together in Christian love; to strive for the advancement of this school in knowledge, holiness and comfort; to promote its prosperity and spirituality; to sustain its worship, ordinances, discipline and doctrines; to give it a sacred preeminence over all institutions of human origin; and to contribute cheerfully and regularly to the support of the ministry, the expenses of the church, the relief of the poor, and the spread of the Gospel through all nations.
We also engage to maintain family and private devotions; to religiously educate our children; to seek the salvation of our kindred; acquaintances, and all others; to walk circumspectly in the world; to be just in our dealings, faithful to our engagements, and exemplary in our deportment; to avoid all tattling, backbiting, and excessive anger; to abstain from such worldly amusements as watching ungodly movies, gambling, rock music, and dancing; secret societies and partnerships with unbelievers; to abstain from the sale or use of tobacco in any form, narcotic drugs, intoxicating drink as a beverage; and to be zealous in our efforts to advance the Kingdom of our Savior.
We further engage to watch over one another in brotherly love; to remember each other in prayer; to aid each other in sickness and distress; to cultivate Christian sympathy in feeling and courtesy of speech; to be slow to take offense, but always ready for reconciliation, and mindful of the rules of our Savior, and to secure reconciliation without delay.
We moreover engage that when we remove from this place, we will as soon as possible unite with some other church where we carry out the spirit of this covenant and the principles of God’s Word.

ARTICLE 3 – Ministry of Education

Section 3.01 – Purpose

The church believes that it is to provide the member’s children with an education, which is based upon and consistent with Biblical teachings. The church believes that the home and church are responsible before God for providing a Christian education. To this end, the church shall engage in ministries in education in keeping with the following dictates.

Section 3.02 – Church Participation

All educational programs or courses of instruction formulated and offered by the church shall be primarily for the benefit of members of the church; and its community. However, the pastor may permit non-church members to participate in church educational programs such as employment with Victory Academy or courses of instruction if he deems it in the best interest of the church.

Section 3.03– Staff Membership

All instructors, teachers, and administrators shall be members of The Pentecostals of Wisconsin. Any exceptions would be made by the Pastor. The pastor reserves the right to consult the council of Elders and the school administrator to hire non-members at VCA. This provision shall not apply to visiting V.C.A. Board members, missionaries, evangelists, or preachers engaged for the purpose of delivering, sermons, chapel messages, devotions, conducting revivals, or other special meetings on a temporary basis.

Section 3.04– Statement of Faith Accord

All educational programs or courses of instruction shall be taught and presented in full accord with the Statement of Faith of the church. The church shall not hire, appoint, or retain an employee or volunteer for its educational programs who fails to adhere to or expresses disagreement with the Statement of Faith.

Section 3.05– Unity

All educational programs or courses of instruction shall be conducted as an integral and inseparable ministry of the church.

Section 3.06– Teaching

All educational programs or courses of instruction shall be conducted consistent with all teaching of the inerrant Word of God. Any assertion or belief which conflicts with or questions a Bible truth is unequivocally unacceptable to the philosophical values of this organization which will be disclaimed as false. It is the responsibility of every instructor or teacher to present the inerrant Word of God as the sole infallible source of knowledge and wisdom. All teachers, instructors, administrators and volunteers are asked to use the Bible as the sole source for establishing truth for salvation and godly living. Teachers are permitted to use other translations of the bible but are encouraged to use the King James version as a final interpretation for Biblical studies.

Section 3.07– Christian Walk

All administrators, instructors, teachers and all other faculty shall continue or adopt a lifestyle consistent with the precepts which they teach, whether in or out of the classroom.