“Our only creed is Christ and His New Testament.” This phrase encapsulates the guiding principle of the Church of Christ – Laporte.
The Church of Christ – Laporte stands as a beacon of faith. It is rooted in a rich history stemming from the Restoration Movement. This movement sought to revive the practices of first-century Christianity. The Bible serves as the sole source of religious authority here.
The Church of Christ has no man-made creed. This congregation believes in the eternal existence of God. They see Him as three persons. These are the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. They believe in the deity of Christ and His redemptive work on the cross. His resurrection anchors their hope for everlasting life. The Holy Spirit dwells within each Christian. He actively guides every true follower of Christ.
The Church of Christ – Laporte finds its foundation in the belief that the Bible is God’s inspired Word. It guides their life, conduct, and doctrine. They believe salvation comes from God’s grace. It calls them to obedience. It calls them to accountability and union with Him.
Here at the Church of Christ – Laporte, they establish a relationship with Christ through faith. This includes repentance and baptism. Baptism involves immersion. This signifies a personal affirmation that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. Members of the Church of Christ – Laporte believe that every soul will be resurrected. They will appear before God for judgment. This results in either eternal life in heaven or eternal punishment in hell.
This congregation believes the church established by Christ is undenominational. Undenominational Christianity exists wherever people obey the New Testament’s pure teachings. All people are free to read and study God’s Word. They can form conclusions without fear.
Certain patterns from first-century Christians shape the church’s work and worship. These include weekly observance of the Lord’s Supper. This happens on the first day of the week. They take weekly freewill offerings. A cappella music fills their public worship. Biblically qualified elders lead the congregation. Deacons provide congregational service.
The Church of Christ in Texas has roots in the Second Great Awakening. Collin McKinney, a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence, was an early member. William P. DeFee preached in Texas in 1836. Mansell W. Matthews started a church on wheels. Early immigrants from Kentucky, Tennessee, and northern Alabama influenced the church. Jose Maria Jesus Carbajal lived with Alexander Campbell. He brought Campbell’s writings back to Texas. Early churches often emerged from converted Baptist congregations.
Before you stands a testament to faith. The Church of Christ – Laporte embraces the teachings of the New Testament. It fosters a community grounded in belief and devotion.