how to write a personal statement of faith

What is a Faith Statement and How Do You Write One? (with Examples)

What is a faith statement and how do you write one? This resource offers guidance from Lord’s Library editors and Christian thought leaders.

If you found this resource then you are probably looking to have the following question answered: “What is a faith statement?” You might also be trying to be find thoughtful advice on how to write a statement of faith. Christians write faith statements for confirmation, job applications, entrance into a church ministry, and Christian college and university applications.

This article will highlight the process for writing a good faith statement through various statement of faith examples, as well as advice from Christians with experience on the topic. It will also include faith statement outlines so you know what a statement of faith should include.

The motivation for creating this resource came after our launch of Lord’s Library last year. As a Christian media startup with a clear mission , we knew we had to construct a professional faith statement that our readers could reference. Our creation would also act as the personal statement of faith of our founders, making it a daunting task.

This article offers everything one needs to know when asking “what is a faith statement?” or when looking for a template on how to write a statement of faith.

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What is a faith statement.

A statement of faith is a description of spiritual belief as it pertains to an individual or community organization, structured by summarizing core tenets. Faith statements commonly include a description of belief on various Christian topics, including the nature of God, the Trinity, Jesus Christ, the Bible, creation, salvation , revelation, the role of the Church, denominational association , and how those beliefs are relevant to an individual’s personal mission, a ministry, or organization.

A statement of faith is not dissimilar to a creed, which is a confession of faith or a symbol representing it. The earliest known creed in Christianity was written by Paul the Apostle and states “ Jesus is Lord. “

Personal vs. Professional Faith Statements; What’s the Difference?

It may be a surprise to learn that no standard format exists for how to write a statement of faith, and they can be as unique as the individual or community organization writing them. A personal faith statement is akin to a creed while a professional statement of faith could be comparable to a Christian-centric mission statement. There are many organizations though, like Lord’s Library, that choose to align their professional faith statements with the personally-held beliefs of their founders.

One might write a personal statement of faith for confirmation , which is sometimes required as a prerequisite for youths to attain membership in a church. Young adults are commonly tasked with writing a faith statement as part of the application process to a Christian college or university along with a personal essay. Or maybe you’re an outspoken Christian with a personal blog and you want your readers to know where you stand on key ecumenical issues. However, one should be guarded not to write a statement of faith for the sole purpose of showing Biblical knowledge.

A professional statement of faith follows along this same path, but is often written for a business purpose or for acceptance into a community organization or church ministry. You might also want to write a professional faith statement if you’re starting your own Christian ministry or commercial project, like we are doing here at Lord’s Library. Our guess is that this is growing increasingly more common due to the pandemic and digital transformation that has come as a result of it.

Christian companies may require a statement of faith for their records and as part of the application process which shows you agree with their overall mission. The same might be true for installation as a church officer such as elders or deacons. In one good example we found in our research, a church may require members to be in general agreement on doctrine while understanding that different people may word things differently.

Personal and professional faith statements can differ depending on the writer and the purpose, but the goal should remain largely the same.

How to Write a Statement of Faith: Key Elements to Include

It can be a difficult process to put your personally held spiritual beliefs onto paper for multiple reasons. First, you may be worried about shutting others out who don’t have the same set of values. You might also be concerned with forgetting a key point. However, learning how to write a statement of faith can be an excellent exercise, both because it makes you contemplate deeply what you believe, and because it’s an ideal way to start communicating the faith with others.

We recommend beginning the process in prayer, asking The Lord for spiritual guidance on how best to communicate your declaration. Then you can begin to script your faith statement by starting with an outline of key elements that will act as a foundation of belief. And since the goal of a statement of faith is to communicate spiritual belief, Scripture ought to be used whenever possible. Next, begin adding supporting Scriptures to your faith statement outline to build it out.

A statement of faith can feature one all-encompassing paragraph that covers theological basics. Some may choose to devote an entire paragraph to each theological section, while others might combine some and highlight others specifically for added effect on a particular point. There are also faith statements which present as simple bullet point lists. The format isn’t important. Rather, the sequence and organization of the topics will make the statement distinct and personal.

To help you build out an outline, we listed below a number of key elements to consider including in your personal statement of faith.

• The nature of God the Father
• The nature of Jesus Christ
• The Holy Spirit
• The Trinity
• Inerrancy of Scripture and the Bible
• Role of the Church
• Revelation (or eschatology)
• Sin (or good and evil)
• Heaven and Hell
• Human nature
• Your mission (as it pertains to the above)

These are the most common examples we discovered during our research and analysis of various faith statements from across the web. You may choose to add additional topics to this framework.

Statement of Faith Examples and Advice to Consider

Below we link out to several statement of faith examples from different Christian doctrines to help save you time:

• Association of Classical Christian Schools
• First Baptist Atlanta (Georgia)
• Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ
• American Anglican Council
• Presbyterian Mission

We also thought it would be helpful to include tidbits of advice from other Christians who may have written their own faith statements in the past. So we took to LinkedIn and polled those in some of the most popular Christian user groups . The hope is that the advice they offered can be of some assistance as you begin your own writing process:

• “ Recognizing that you are probably writing your statement for a reason, I would hope the reason does not color your language. That is, don’t say what you want others to hear, rather write what you have come to believe .” – Paul Mannes, Adjunct Professor of Biblical Studies at Washington University of Virginia in Theology for Today
• “ The statement must be Christ centered .” – Anthony Luckett, Pastor of Saint Paul Church in Milwaukee, WI in Bivocational Ministry
• “ Be truthful and fearless. Tell what you truly experienced with God through His Son by the way His given Holy Spirit .” – Vicki Gann, Founder of Love4Love Ministry in Assemblies of God Ministers
• “ If going it alone, a statement of faith should be built on a strong foundation and understanding of scripture with clearly articulated doctrinal points and a liberal use of Biblical citations .” – Lonnie Williams, Pastoral Counselor at Bethel Christian Church in Warren, MI in Inside Pastoral Care & Counseling

Are you currently writing your own statement of faith? Have tips, tricks, or techniques to share? Let us know !

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Timothy Andrew

Tim is the Founder of Lord's Library. He believes the Bible commands us to minister "as of the ability which God giveth" (1 Peter 4:11). Tim aspires to be as The Lord's mouth by "taking forth the precious from the vile" (Jeremiah 15:19) and witnessing The Gospel of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15: 1-4) to the whole world.

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How to Write a Statement of Christian Faith: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to write a statement of Christian faith. Crafting a statement of faith is an essential process that helps Christians to define their beliefs and values, and it’s a critical component in many church traditions. Whether you’re writing a statement of faith for yourself or your congregation, our guide will help you through the process step-by-step.

In this guide, we’ll cover the importance of writing a statement of faith, steps to follow in writing one, tips for crafting an engaging statement, common mistakes to avoid, examples of effective statements, and frequently asked questions about the process.

So, whether you’re a new Christian, a long-time believer, or a pastor leading your congregation through the process, keep reading to learn everything you need to know to write a powerful and meaningful statement of Christian faith.

Importance of Writing a Statement of Christian Faith

Writing a statement of Christian faith is an essential part of many Christian traditions. A statement of faith outlines your beliefs and values, and it can serve as a powerful tool for personal reflection and growth. It can also be a means of connecting with others who share similar beliefs and values.

For some, writing a statement of faith can be a deeply personal and transformative experience. It forces individuals to contemplate their relationship with God and to articulate their understanding of God’s place in their life. For others, it can be a means of publicly proclaiming their faith and sharing it with others in their community.

Furthermore, a statement of faith can serve as a guide for making important life decisions. By putting into words what you believe and value, you can use your statement of faith as a reference point for staying true to your beliefs in all aspects of your life.

For those in leadership positions in the church or Christian organizations, a statement of faith can be particularly important. It can help to establish a shared understanding of the organization’s values and beliefs and ensure that all members are aligned with the same mission and purpose.

In summary, writing a statement of Christian faith is an important process for individuals and communities alike. It can help to deepen personal faith, connect with others, and provide guidance for important life decisions.

The Significance of Articulating Your Beliefs

Articulating your beliefs in a statement of Christian faith is a crucial step in the life of any Christian. It is a personal declaration of your faith that serves as a roadmap for your spiritual journey. Through your statement, you can reflect on your faith, clarify your beliefs, and create a foundation for your actions and decisions.

Writing your statement of faith can help you to understand your beliefs better and bring them into focus. It allows you to reflect on your personal experiences and the teachings of the Bible, which helps you to articulate what you believe and why you believe it. In turn, this can help you to live a more purposeful life as a Christian.

Articulating your beliefs can also be a way to strengthen your relationship with God. By expressing your faith in writing, you can gain a deeper understanding of the nature of God and His plan for your life. This can lead to a more profound and meaningful connection with Him.

• Clarify your beliefs and values
• Strengthen your relationship with God
• Live a more purposeful life

As you write your statement of Christian faith, remember that it is a personal reflection of your beliefs. It is a way to honor God and the unique way He has worked in your life. In the following sections, we will discuss the steps you can take to craft a statement of faith that is authentic, meaningful, and true to who you are as a Christian.

The Role of a Statement of Christian Faith in Personal and Community Settings

A statement of Christian faith serves as a personal declaration of one’s beliefs and values. It helps individuals identify and articulate what they believe, and why they believe it, serving as a foundation for their spiritual journey.

In community settings, a statement of Christian faith can promote unity and understanding among members. It can help to clarify the beliefs and values that a community shares and guide them in decision-making and action.

A statement of Christian faith can also serve as a tool for evangelism, providing an opportunity to share one’s beliefs with others and explain the gospel message in a clear and concise manner.

Furthermore, a statement of Christian faith can be a source of comfort and inspiration during difficult times, reminding individuals of the hope and promises that their faith provides.

In summary, a statement of Christian faith plays an essential role in both personal and community settings, providing a foundation for one’s beliefs and values and promoting unity and understanding among members.

Benefits of Having a Well-Crafted Statement of Christian Faith

A well-crafted Statement of Christian Faith can have significant benefits for individuals and communities alike. Below are three ways in which having a clear and thoughtfully written statement can be beneficial:

• Provides a foundation for personal beliefs: Crafting a statement of faith can help individuals clarify their beliefs and provide a foundation for their personal faith journey.
• Strengthens community connections: A shared statement of faith can bring together a community of believers and create a sense of unity.
• Communicates values to outsiders: A well-written statement of faith can help outsiders understand the beliefs and values of a particular community or denomination.

By crafting a well-written Statement of Christian Faith, individuals and communities can reap the benefits of a clear and articulate declaration of their beliefs and values.

Steps to Follow in Writing a Statement of Christian Faith

Step 1: Reflect on your beliefs. Spend some time reflecting on your faith and what it means to you. Think about what values and principles you hold dear and how they have impacted your life.

Step 2: Consider your audience. Think about who will be reading your statement of faith. Will it be a personal document or something you share with a larger community? This will help you tailor your writing to the appropriate audience.

Step 3: Write a draft. Start writing down your thoughts and beliefs in a rough draft. Don’t worry about making it perfect at this stage – just get your ideas down on paper.

Step 4: Edit and refine. Once you have a draft, go back through and edit your writing. Refine your language, clarify your points, and ensure that your statement is concise and well-organized.

Reflecting on Your Beliefs and Experiences

Before beginning to write your statement of Christian faith, it is important to take time to reflect on your personal beliefs and experiences. Take some time to consider the things you value most about your faith and the moments that have impacted your spiritual journey.

Reflecting on your beliefs and experiences can help you identify key themes and ideas that you want to include in your statement. It can also help you to articulate your beliefs in a clear and meaningful way.

Consider writing down your thoughts and reflections in a journal or notebook. This can be a helpful exercise as you begin to organize your thoughts and ideas for your statement.

Remember that your statement of Christian faith is a personal reflection of your beliefs and experiences. Take time to prayerfully consider what you want to include and how you want to communicate your faith to others.

Identifying Key Themes and Values

Once you have reflected on your beliefs and experiences, the next step is to identify key themes and values that you want to articulate in your statement of faith. Consider the following:

• Biblical principles: What principles and teachings from the Bible are most important to you?
• Personal values: What personal values guide your life and your faith?
• Theology: What theological beliefs are most significant to you?

As you consider these questions, try to identify specific examples or experiences that illustrate these themes and values. This can help to make your statement of faith more concrete and personal.

Tips for Crafting an Engaging Statement of Christian Faith

Be clear and concise: Your statement should be easy to understand and communicate your beliefs in a straightforward manner. Avoid using complex language or jargon.

Use personal anecdotes: Share personal stories and experiences to illustrate your beliefs and make your statement more relatable.

Consider your audience: Think about who will be reading your statement and tailor it to their needs and interests. Make it relevant and engaging to them.

Use scripture and quotes: Incorporate relevant scripture passages and quotes from Christian leaders to support your beliefs and add depth to your statement.

Revise and edit: Take time to review and refine your statement. Ask for feedback from others and make necessary revisions to ensure it is well-crafted and effective.

Using Personal Stories and Examples to Illustrate Your Beliefs

One effective way to craft an engaging statement of Christian faith is to use personal stories and examples to illustrate your beliefs. Personal stories allow others to see how your faith has impacted your life and provide context for your beliefs. For example, you could share a story about how a particular Bible verse helped you through a difficult time.

Another way to illustrate your beliefs is to use examples from your life or the lives of others. For instance, you could describe a time when you saw God at work in the world or share how a friend’s faith inspired you. These examples help bring your beliefs to life and make them more relatable.

When sharing personal stories and examples, it’s important to be vulnerable and honest. Don’t be afraid to share moments of doubt or struggle, as these can make your faith journey more compelling. Additionally, try to use language that is inclusive and inviting, so that people from all walks of life can relate to your beliefs.

Remember, the goal of sharing personal stories and examples is not to boast or impress others, but to inspire and connect with them on a deeper level. By using these tools, you can craft a statement of Christian faith that is engaging, authentic, and meaningful to others.

Writing in a Clear and Concise Manner

One of the most important aspects of crafting a statement of Christian faith is to communicate your beliefs in a clear and concise manner. Clarity ensures that your message is easily understood, while conciseness ensures that it is not unnecessarily long-winded or repetitive.

To achieve clarity, use simple and straightforward language, avoid overly technical terms, and provide sufficient context for your beliefs. Avoid using jargon or phrases that may be misunderstood by those outside your faith community. Similarly, avoid repeating the same ideas or beliefs in multiple ways, as this can lead to confusion and detract from the impact of your message.

Conciseness is achieved by focusing on the most important aspects of your beliefs, and avoiding unnecessary details or tangents. It is also important to be mindful of the length of your statement, as overly long statements can be overwhelming for readers and may detract from the impact of your message. Consider using bullet points or subheadings to break up your text and make it more easily digestible.

In summary, writing in a clear and concise manner is essential to crafting an engaging statement of Christian faith. By focusing on the most important aspects of your beliefs and communicating them in a simple and straightforward manner, you can ensure that your message is easily understood and impactful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Statement of Christian Faith

Lack of clarity: It’s important to ensure that your statement is clear and easy to understand. Avoid using overly technical language or abstract concepts that may confuse readers.

Focusing on theology at the expense of personal experience: While theology is an important aspect of any statement of faith, it’s equally important to include personal stories and experiences that illustrate how your faith has impacted your life.

Ignoring the audience: When crafting your statement, it’s important to consider your audience. Tailor your language and examples to resonate with those who will be reading your statement.

Focusing Too Much on Technical Language and Jargon

One common mistake that people make when writing a statement of Christian faith is focusing too much on technical language and jargon. While it is important to be precise and clear in your language, using too much technical terminology can make your statement difficult for others to understand.

Remember that your statement of faith is meant to communicate your beliefs to others, not impress them with your knowledge of theology. Using plain language and avoiding technical jargon can help you to connect with a wider audience and ensure that your message is understood by all who read it.

If you feel that technical language is necessary to express a particular idea or concept, take the time to define the term and explain it in simpler terms. This will help ensure that your message is clear and accessible to everyone who reads your statement.

Not Being Authentic in Your Writing

Authenticity is key when it comes to writing a statement of Christian faith. Avoid copying what others have written or trying to sound overly impressive. Speak from your heart, and write in your own voice. Your statement should reflect your unique experiences, beliefs, and values.

Avoiding Vulnerability can also prevent authenticity in your writing. Don’t be afraid to share personal stories and experiences that have shaped your faith. Vulnerability can help connect you to your readers and make your statement more impactful.

Focusing Too Much on Perfection can also hinder authenticity. Remember that your statement does not have to be perfect, nor does it have to be a comprehensive summary of your entire faith journey. Focus on expressing your beliefs and values in an honest and authentic way.

Examples of Effective Statements of Christian Faith

Example 1: “I believe in the one true God who created the universe and all that is within it. I believe in Jesus Christ, who died on the cross for my sins and rose from the dead, and in the Holy Spirit, who guides me in my daily life. I seek to live out my faith through acts of love, mercy, and justice, and to share the message of God’s grace with others.”

Example 2: “My faith is rooted in the belief that God is love, and that all people are created in God’s image and are deserving of dignity and respect. I strive to live out this belief by seeking justice for marginalized communities and by loving my neighbor as myself. I find strength and guidance in prayer, scripture, and community.”

Example 3: “As a follower of Jesus Christ, I believe in the power of forgiveness and redemption. I seek to live a life of humility and service, following Christ’s example of selflessness and sacrifice. I am committed to loving God with all my heart, soul, and mind, and to loving my neighbor as myself.”

Example 4: “My faith is grounded in the belief that God is present in all aspects of creation, and that all people are called to be co-creators with God in building a more just and compassionate world. I am inspired by the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, and seek to follow his example of love, compassion, and service.”

Example 5: “I believe in the transforming power of God’s love and grace. I seek to live out this belief by loving and serving others, and by working towards a world where all people are valued and respected. I find strength and guidance in prayer, scripture, and community, and strive to be a faithful disciple of Jesus Christ.”

Statement of Faith Example: Personal Testimony and Values

As a follower of Jesus Christ, my faith is deeply rooted in my personal experiences and values. One of the most significant experiences in my faith journey was when I realized my need for a savior and accepted Jesus Christ into my life.

My core values are based on the teachings of Christ, such as love, forgiveness, and service to others. I believe that God created each of us with a unique purpose, and it is our responsibility to discover and fulfill that purpose with the gifts and talents He has given us.

Through my faith, I have learned the importance of seeking God’s will and living a life that honors Him. I strive to reflect His love and grace to others, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of a community of believers who support and encourage each other in our journey of faith.

Statement of Faith Example: Community Outreach and Social Justice

Community: As a Christian, I believe in the importance of building a strong and supportive community. I believe in the power of coming together to lift each other up and make a positive impact in our world.

Outreach: I am passionate about outreach and serving others, especially those who are marginalized and oppressed. I believe that as followers of Christ, it is our duty to serve and love our neighbors in practical ways.

Social Justice: I believe that social justice is an essential part of living out my faith. I am committed to working towards a more just and equitable society, and I believe that this work is central to the message of the gospel.

Statement of Faith Example: Theological Beliefs and Doctrines

As a Christian, I believe in the trinity , which means that there is one God in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. I believe in the infallibility of the Bible as the Word of God, which teaches that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. I believe in the resurrection of the dead and eternal life for those who put their trust in Christ.

My faith is founded on the belief that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the only way to salvation. He lived a sinless life, died on the cross for our sins, and rose again on the third day. I believe that through faith in Him, we can have forgiveness of sins and eternal life with God.

I also believe in the importance of living a life that reflects the teachings of Jesus Christ. This includes loving our neighbors as ourselves, serving others, and sharing the good news of the gospel. I believe that the Holy Spirit enables us to live a life that is pleasing to God and empowers us to do His will.

Frequently Asked Questions About Writing a Statement of Christian Faith

What is a statement of Christian faith?

A statement of Christian faith is a personal or communal declaration of beliefs, values, and experiences that shape an individual or a community’s understanding of Christianity and their relationship with God.

Who should write a statement of Christian faith?

Anyone who identifies as a Christian and wants to articulate their beliefs and experiences can write a statement of Christian faith. It can be written by individuals, families, or communities of faith.

How long should a statement of Christian faith be?

There is no set length for a statement of Christian faith. It can be a few sentences or several pages long. The length depends on the writer’s goals, audience, and personal or communal experiences.

What are some tips for writing an effective statement of Christian faith?

Some tips for writing an effective statement of Christian faith include focusing on personal experiences, using clear and concise language, avoiding technical jargon, being authentic, and seeking feedback from others.

How can a statement of Christian faith be used?

A statement of Christian faith can be used for personal reflection and growth, as a tool for sharing one’s beliefs and values with others, as a way to connect with a community of faith, or as a means of discerning one’s call to ministry.

What Should I Include in My Statement of Christian Faith?

When crafting your statement of Christian faith, it is important to include your personal beliefs and experiences that have shaped your faith. This can include your understanding of the Bible, the teachings of Jesus, and the role of the church in your life.

You may also want to include any spiritual practices that are important to you, such as prayer, meditation, or participating in religious ceremonies or rituals. It can also be helpful to articulate your beliefs about the afterlife and your understanding of salvation.

Ultimately, your statement of Christian faith should reflect your unique relationship with God and your understanding of what it means to be a follower of Christ. Don’t be afraid to be honest and vulnerable about your struggles and doubts, as well as your joys and blessings.

How Long Should My Statement of Christian Faith Be?

The length of your statement of Christian faith can vary, but it is generally recommended to keep it concise and focused. It should be long enough to express your beliefs and values clearly, but not so long that it becomes tedious or overwhelming to read.

Most statements of faith are between 500 and 1000 words, but some may be shorter or longer depending on the individual and the purpose of the statement. If you are writing a statement of faith for a specific purpose, such as for a job application or ministry opportunity, be sure to follow any guidelines or requirements provided by the organization.

Remember, the most important thing is not the length of your statement, but the authenticity and clarity of your beliefs. Focus on expressing your faith in a way that is meaningful and impactful to yourself and others.

Do I Need to Consult with a Pastor or Theologian Before Writing My Statement of Christian Faith?

While it is not necessary to consult with a pastor or theologian before writing your statement of Christian faith, it can be helpful to do so. They can provide guidance and feedback to ensure that your statement accurately reflects your beliefs and aligns with the teachings of Christianity.

Consulting with a pastor or theologian can also help you gain a deeper understanding of the theological concepts and doctrines that are central to your faith. This can lead to a stronger and more coherent statement that effectively conveys your beliefs to others.

Ultimately, the decision to consult with a pastor or theologian is up to you. If you feel confident in your ability to write a strong statement on your own, then you may not feel the need to seek outside help. However, if you have any doubts or concerns, it may be worthwhile to reach out to a trusted spiritual advisor for guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it important to write a statement of christian faith.

Writing a statement of Christian faith is an important way to clarify your own beliefs and share them with others. It can also help you to articulate your values and convictions, and to identify areas where you may need further growth or study.

Some tips for writing an effective statement of Christian faith include: being authentic and honest about your beliefs and experiences, using clear and accessible language, focusing on the most important aspects of your faith, and seeking feedback and guidance from others.

There is no set length for a statement of Christian faith, but it should be long enough to clearly articulate your beliefs and values. It’s generally a good idea to keep it concise and focused, avoiding unnecessary technical language or extraneous details.

Do I need to have a deep understanding of theology to write a statement of Christian faith?

While a deep understanding of theology can be helpful in writing a statement of Christian faith, it is not necessarily required. What is most important is that you are honest about your beliefs and experiences, and that you use clear and accessible language to communicate your values and convictions.

How can I use my statement of Christian faith in my personal and spiritual life?

Your statement of Christian faith can serve as a guidepost for your personal and spiritual life, reminding you of your core values and beliefs. You can use it as a basis for prayer and reflection, and as a tool for seeking feedback and guidance from others in your community of faith.

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How to Write a Personal Statement of Faith: Examples and Writing Tips

• oleh Solahart Handal
• 18 Februari 2023

How to Write a Personal Statement of Faith: Examples and Writing Tips – As a believer, writing a personal statement of faith is a way to articulate your beliefs and values. It serves as a testimony of your spiritual journey and reflects the core of your identity.

The personal statement of faith is a document that can be used for various purposes, such as job applications, college applications, or simply as a way to express your faith to others.

In this article, we will discuss the elements of a personal statement of faith, provide writing tips, and share an example to guide you in creating your statement.

Elements of a Personal Statement of Faith

A personal statement of faith should include the following elements:

Beliefs about God

The foundation of any personal statement of faith is a belief in God. It is important to articulate your beliefs about the nature of God and his role in your life.

For example, you may believe in the Christian God, who is all-knowing, all-powerful, and ever-present. You may also believe that God is loving, merciful, and just. Be specific about your beliefs and avoid generalizations.

Beliefs about Jesus Christ

Another essential element of a personal statement of faith is a belief in Jesus Christ. As a Christian, you may believe that Jesus is the Son of God, who came to earth to save humanity from sin.

You may also believe that he died on the cross and rose again on the third day. Explain how your belief in Jesus has impacted your life and what it means to you.

Beliefs about the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is often referred to as the third person of the Trinity. As a Christian, you may believe that the Holy Spirit is the presence of God in your life, who guides and comforts you.

You may also believe that the Holy Spirit empowers you to live a life of faith and obedience. Share your thoughts on the role of the Holy Spirit in your spiritual journey.

Beliefs about the Bible

The Bible is the primary source of Christian belief and practice. It is important to articulate your beliefs about the nature and authority of the Bible.

You may believe that the Bible is the inspired and infallible word of God. You may also believe that it is the final authority on matters of faith and practice. Explain how you approach reading and studying the Bible.

Beliefs about Salvation

Salvation is a central theme of Christian belief. You may believe that salvation is a gift of grace, which is received through faith in Jesus Christ.

You may also believe that salvation is a process of sanctification, where you are transformed by the Holy Spirit. Share your testimony of how you came to faith in Jesus Christ and what it means to you.

Beliefs about the Church

The Church is a community of believers who gather together to worship, learn, and serve. You may believe that the Church is the body of Christ, which is called to love and serve others.

You may also believe that the Church is essential to your spiritual growth and development. Explain how you are involved in your local church community and what it means to you.

Beliefs about the Future

As a Christian, you may have beliefs about the future, such as the second coming of Christ, the resurrection of the dead, and the final judgment.

You may also have beliefs about heaven and hell. Share your thoughts on these topics and how they shape your perspective on life.

Writing Tips for a Personal Statement of Faith

Writing a personal statement of faith can be a challenging task. Here are some tips to help you write a clear and compelling document:

Be honest and authentic

Your statement of faith should reflect your true beliefs and experiences. Avoid using language that is not genuine or that sounds like you are trying to please others.

Be honest about your doubts and struggles as well as your triumphs and joys.

Use clear and concise language

The purpose of a personal statement of faith is to communicate your beliefs clearly and effectively. Use language that is straightforward to understand.

Avoid using technical or academic language that might be difficult for others to comprehend.

Use personal examples and stories

Personal examples and stories can make your statement of faith more engaging and relatable. Share specific moments or experiences that have shaped your faith journey.

Explain how those experiences have impacted your beliefs and values.

Avoid controversial or divisive topics

While it is important, to be honest, and authentic, it is also important to avoid controversial or divisive topics that might alienate others.

Stick to the core beliefs of your faith and avoid topics that are highly debated or divisive.

Edit and proofread carefully

A personal statement of faith is a reflection of who you are as a person and a believer. Take the time to edit and proofread your document carefully to ensure that it accurately reflects your beliefs and values.

Read your document aloud to check for clarity and flow, and ask a friend or family member to review it as well.

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Example Personal Statement of Faith

Here is an example of a personal statement of faith:

Introduction: My name is John and I am a Christian. My faith in Jesus Christ is the foundation of my life and informs every decision I make.

Beliefs about God: I believe in one God, who is all-knowing, all-powerful, and ever-present. He is loving, merciful, and just. I believe that God created the universe and everything in it.

Beliefs about Jesus Christ: I believe that Jesus is the Son of God, who came to earth to save humanity from sin. I believe that he died on the cross and rose again on the third day. Through faith in Jesus Christ, I have been forgiven of my sins and have eternal life.

Beliefs about the Holy Spirit: I believe that the Holy Spirit is the presence of God in my life, who guides and comforts me. I believe that the Holy Spirit empowers me to live a life of faith and obedience.

Beliefs about the Bible: I believe that the Bible is the inspired and infallible word of God. It is the final authority on matters of faith and practice. I approach reading and studying the Bible with a spirit of humility and obedience.

Beliefs about Salvation: I believe that salvation is a gift of grace, which is received through faith in Jesus Christ. I also believe that salvation is a process of sanctification, where I am transformed by the Holy Spirit.

Beliefs about the Church: I believe that the Church is the body of Christ, which is called to love and serve others. I am involved in my local church community through worship, fellowship, and service.

Beliefs about the Future: I believe in the second coming of Christ, the resurrection of the dead, and the final judgment. I also believe in the reality of heaven and hell. My beliefs about the future give me hope and perspective in the present.

Related : Dreaming About Someone: How to Make it Happen

Writing a personal statement of faith is a powerful way to express your beliefs and values. By following the elements and writing tips discussed in this article, you can create a document that accurately reflects who you are as a person and a believer.

Remember that your statement of faith is a testimony of your spiritual journey, and it has the potential to inspire others and strengthen your faith.

Related : 8 Ways to Become a Better Person Day by Day

Here are some FAQs related to personal statements of faith:

Anyone who wants to communicate their beliefs and values to others can write a personal statement of faith. It is a useful tool for Christians who want to share their testimony or explain their faith to others.

The purpose of a personal statement of faith is to communicate your beliefs and values to others. It can serve as a testimony of your faith journey, and it can help others understand what you believe and why.

A personal statement of faith can be as long or as short as you want it to be. It should include all the necessary elements to communicate your beliefs and values effectively.

Yes, a personal statement of faith can be a powerful tool for evangelism. It can help others understand what you believe and why, and it can inspire them to consider their own beliefs and values.

Yes, a personal statement of faith can be revised and updated over time as your beliefs and values evolve. It is important to be honest and authentic about your beliefs, even if they change over time.

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My personal statement of faith (what i believe).

Hello, and welcome to my personal statement of faith.

If you’ve been following me for a while or have read any articles about faith, prayer, forgiveness, etc., you might know that my Christian faith is a huge part of who I am.

It’s the compass that guides my life, the anchor that grounds me, and the light that is a lamp unto my feet.

This post may contain affiliate links. Read disclosure here

My Personal Faith Statement: What I believe

Now that my blog is over a year old, I felt it was high time to pen down my personal statement of faith.

A Personal statement of faith is a way to share the core of what I believe so that you can get to know me a bit better and have a deeper understanding of where I’m coming from when I write about things like faith, healing, forgiveness, etc.

Writing a personal testimony is also in the works.

My testimony is my personal story of how I encountered God, how you came to believe in Jesus, and how that relationship has impacted and transformed my life.

I’ll be honest with you, sitting down to write my testimony will be quite an undertaking, so it may take a while, but if you are interested in reading it when it’s ready, you can sign up for my newsletter to ensure you don’t miss it.

In the meantime, as promised, here is my statement of faith. If anything piques your curiosity or you’ve got any questions, don’t be shy!— reach out! 🙂

The Big Three: The Father, The Son (Jesus Christ), and Holy Spirit

First and foremost, I wholeheartedly believe in the Trinity.

Now, if you’re scratching your head wondering, “What’s that?”, let me break it down. The Trinity is like the ultimate dream team: God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Three distinct persons in one God Head.

This site is like the FAQ of Christianity. They have a straightforward breakdown of the Trinity and many related questions. GotQuestions on the Trinity

God the Father

He’s the Creator of everything. Light from darkness, the oceans, the stars, the animals, and even the tiniest of fireflies.

And as far as human life, God created Adam and Eve, the Garden of Eden, and cutting to the chase-He created the entire human race!

He’s like the ultimate artist, and we’re His masterpieces. He loves us human beings so much that He has a unique plan for each of our lives and, ultimately, a plan that each of us can eternally existent (life forever) in His presence.

This song nicely sums up what I believe: This I Believe (The Creed) by Hillsong.

Understanding the Character of God

I like to think of God the Father as the ultimate CEO of the universe. He’s not just running the show; He created the show.

From speaking the world into existence ( Genesis 1:1 ) to laying down timeless guidelines like the Ten Commandments, His word is the real deal.

And while He’s got this unchanging, rock-solid authority (Malachi 3:6), He’s also the final authority of all Revelation 20:12 .

But here’s the twist: even with all that power, He’s super into building a close, loving relationship with us. It’s like having the universe’s top boss, your biggest fan.

Jesus the Son ( My Lord, Jesus Christ)

Ah, my leading man, my Lord Jesus Christ!

He’s the reason I have blessed hope in my heart.

Born of the virgin Mary, He lived a sinless life and taught us about love, forgiveness, faith, humility (to name a few…), and eternal life, assuring us that if we believe in him, we’ll live forever with him. (John 3:16) and then did the most selfless thing ever.

He died for us. He was crucified on a cross and shed his blood for us. All of us.

But wait, there’s more – Jesus Christ didn’t stay dead!

Three days after His physical death (on resurrection day), He rose again, conquered death, and gave us the hope of eternal life for all believers.

The Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity.

Here’s where it gets personal: for those who believe, the Holy Spirit indwells in their hearts. John 14:16-17

Jesus referred to the Holy Spirit as the “Comforter” or “Helper”. He said that after he left, the Holy Spirit would come to guide and be with those who believe in Him.

He also described the Holy Spirit as a teacher as the “Spirit of Truth,” and said it would guide true believers into all truth. John 16:13

The Holy Spirit is a dynamic force, ready to guide, teach, and comfort all true believers in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Salvation (Everlasting Life)

John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son (Jesus Christ), that whoever believes in Him shall not perish (a spiritual death) but have eternal life.”

You see, we all mess up. We make mistakes, hurt others, and sometimes drift away from God’s path.

But here’s the good news: Jesus Christ came to save us from that. We’re given a fresh start by believing in Him, accepting His love, and inviting Him into our hearts.

It’s like getting a brand-new, clean slate. And the best part? We get to spend eternity with Him!

Becoming a Christian

The Basics : At the heart of Christianity is the belief that The Lord Jesus Christ is the Son of God, who came to Earth, died for our sins, and rose again.

This act offers salvation—a way to be right with God and be with God in Heaven forever.

“Repent” is a fancy word that means turning away from things that don’t align with God’s will in your present life (aka sins) and turning towards God.

Believe in Jesus as Lord

This is the core of it all John 3:16 .

Believing in Jesus as the one true God means trusting He is who He says He is and that His shed blood and sacrifice are enough for your salvation.

You don’t need fancy words. Just chat with God, acknowledge your sin, that you believe and want to follow Him—examples of prayers for salvation.

And that’s it! Welcome to the Kingdom of Heaven!

More Steps Towards a Godly Life

Get Baptized : Many Christians see baptism as an outward sign of an inward change. It’s a symbolic act, showing that you’re leaving your old life behind and starting fresh with God.

Join a Community : Faith is both personal and communal. Find a local church or a group where you can learn, grow in Godly living, and journey with others.

Keep Growing : Dive into the Bible (God’s Word), pray regularly, and learn. Your relationship with God is like any other relationship—it grows and deepens over time.

Related Articles:

• Ways to Start Living a Christian Life
• Prayers to Pray in the New Year
• How to Mediate as a Christian
• How to Practice Spiritual Self-care
• Knowing the Three Persons of God
• Inspirational Bible Verses for Women
• How to Prayer for Adult Children

FAQs: My Statement of Faith

Q: what’s the deal with the trinity.

It’s like the ultimate dream team of Christianity: God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Think of them as three unique expressions of one divine essence. It’s a bit mind-bending, but it’s central to Christian belief.

Q: Why do Christians wear crosses?

The cross symbolizes Jesus’ sacrifice—his death and resurrection. I wear a cross, I’m not rocking a piece of jewelry; I’m expressing my faith and remembering the love and sacrifice Jesus made for my life.

Q: Do I have to go to church to be a Christian?

Being a Christian is about your relationship with God.

While you don’t have to go to church to have that, many find that being part of a community helps them grow in their faith, learn more, and connect with others on a similar journey.

Q: Why do Christians get baptized?

Baptism is like a spiritual rite of passage.

It’s an outward sign of an inward change, symbolizing a fresh start and a new life in Christ. It’s a way of publicly saying, “Hey, I’m on Team Jesus!” You can learn more about being baptized here .

Q: What’s the best bible for beginners?

Jumping into the vast world of the Bible can feel like diving into a pool’s deep end. But if you’re asking for a personal recommendation on where to start, I’d say go for a Study Bible in the NIV (New International Version) translation .

Why? Well, the NIV strikes a nice balance—it’s accessible and easy to understand, especially for those new to the Bible.

Now, the bonus of a Study Bible is all the extra goodies you get. Think helpful notes, explanations, and context right there in the margins.

It’s like having a knowledgeable buddy guiding you through the pages.

And as for where to begin reading? Dive into the Book of John . It’s a beautiful introduction to the life and teachings of Jesus, filled with profound insights and stories that resonate even today. 🙂

Final Thoughts: My Personal Statement of Faith

My personal statement of faith is more than just words on a page.

It’s a heartfelt declaration, a testament to a deeply personal and profoundly transformative journey.

It’s about understanding my identity, not just in the grand tapestry of life, but in God’s plan’s intricate, beautiful design.

When I say I’m in Christ, it’s not just a label or a casual affiliation.

It’s a bond, a connection that’s as deep as the ocean and as vast as the cosmos. And the coolest part? It’s not just about who I am, but whose I am.

I’m not just any daughter; I’m the daughter of the King. Imagine that! It’s a reminder that I’m cherished, valued, and loved beyond measure.

As a Christian, I’m guided by the love of the Father, redeemed by the sacrifice of Jesus, and constantly comforted by the whispers of the Holy Spirit.

It’s a journey of discovery, understanding my royal lineage, and stepping into the purpose and promise that comes with being the daughter of the King.

And honestly? It doesn’t get cooler than that!

In His Love,

I’ve been keeping it real since 1963. 🙂 I’m a child of God , a wifey, mama, grandma, full-time creative, domestic engineer, and self-care enthusiast .

I am obsessed with all things makeup and skincare and love getting my hands dirty out in the garden , my art room , or in the kitchen , whipping up something yummy for the fam. I’m always down to chat and love collaborating with other creatives and brands alike!

Feel free to reach out anytime!

How to Write a Personal Faith Statement

Trudy brunot, 29 sep 2017.

Personal faith statements reflect an individual’s thoughts about his relationship with God, church and Jesus Christ. Writers commonly use phrases beginning with " believe," include anecdotal accounts to describe their faith journeys and cite scriptures. Although usually only one typewritten page or less in length, no standard format exists for statements of personal faith; they are as individual as the people writing them.

Explore this article

• Sources of Inspiration
• Basic Theology
• Ecclesiastical Thoughts
• Affirmation of Denominational Beliefs

1 Sources of Inspiration

Some people use questions to help them define their beliefs. For example, asking yourself why and when you pray, or how you feel when you don't pray, can clarify your position about communication with God. Others find reading Bible passages helpful, such as New Testament verses that relate actions Jesus took, to reach their own conclusions about who Christ was and what he represents to them. Personal faith statements can develop from favorite Bible verses or the lyrics to a favorite hymn. Discuss why you find them meaningful and relate this to various theological and ecclesiastical topics.

2 Basic Theology

After contemplating what religion means to you and organizing your thoughts, begin by describing in your own words who God is and what the Trinity signify to you. Touch on your feelings about Christ and his role in your salvation, your interpretation of salvation and grace, and how the Holy Spirit is at work in your life. In addition to discussing the significance the Bible holds foryou, you might include the role of prayer and how you pray. Your statement of personal faith may have one, all-encompassing paragraph covering these theological basics; devote a paragraph to each; combine some and highlight others separately; or use bullet points.

3 Ecclesiastical Thoughts

Your opinions about the role of the church, the importance of Communion and your responsibilities as a Christian belong in your personal faith statement. Some people provide examples of actions they take or activities in which they participate and relate these to how they help fulfill the church's mission to help those less fortunate and to spread God's word. Those writing a personal faith statement as part of an application to theological school or for a teaching position at a faith-based school would tie their professional callings to what they feel is God's plan for them.

4 Affirmation of Denominational Beliefs

Members of a congregation facing installation as church officers such as elders or deacons, and young people becoming members through completion of the Confirmation process should profess agreement with their denomination's traditions and beliefs in their personal faith statements. Examples include the denomination's stance on baptism, the Word of God and worship, and any creeds used to define its basic beliefs.

• 1 Making Disciples, Making Leaders: A Manual for Developing Church Officers; Steven P. Eason

About the Author

Trudy Brunot began writing in 1992. Her work has appeared in "Quarterly," "Pennsylvania Health & You," "Constructor" and the "Tribune-Review" newspaper. Her domestic and international experience includes human resources, advertising, marketing, product and retail management positions. She holds a master's degree in international business administration from the University of South Carolina.

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RESOURCES FOR:    Job Seekers Faculty Employers

RESOURCES FOR:

Job Seekers Faculty Employers

The Religious Statement (Statement of Faith) for Academic Jobs 

By  Don Goldstein

Photo by Sasha Freemind on Unsplash

Have you ever encountered a request for a religious statement or statement of faith while searching for faculty jobs in your field? Maybe you’re wondering what that is and why you might need to write one.

Higher Education & Religion

The relationship between higher education and religion in the United States is long and historical. Institutions that we don’t think of as religious, such as Harvard and Yale, were founded primarily for the training of the clergy. Today, there are many types of religious institutions, comprising hundreds of colleges and universities connected to different religious traditions. Some of them have a historic connection to their religious founders that doesn’t influence the institution’s contemporary mission at all; others have religion as a deeply held value. And there are many institutions that are positioned somewhere in between.

Institutional Religious Affiliations

The largest group of religious colleges and universities are the Catholic universities, such as St. Johns, Villanova, Notre Dame, and Duquesne. Within the category of Catholic institutions, there are also Jesuit-affiliated schools, like Boston College, Georgetown, Gonzaga, and Fordham.

Then there are schools with Methodist affiliations, like Emory and Henry, Wesleyan, and Millsaps College, and Historical Black Methodist schools, like Bethune-Cookman and Clark Atlanta. There are Lutheran-affiliated schools, like Muhlenberg, Valparaiso, and Wagner, and Baptist schools, like Baylor, Howard Payne, and Samford.

There are Quaker institutions, such as George Fox University, Swarthmore, and Bryn Mawr, and Presbyterian-affiliated schools, like Davidson and the University of Tulsa. The most well-known Mormon school is Brigham Young. There are also Evangelical schools like Liberty, Oral Roberts and Wheaton College.

Although Christianity is the most represented religion among religiously-affiliated American colleges and universities, there are also Islam-affiliated schools, like Zaytuna College and the Islamic College of Minnesota, and Jewish institutions, like Yeshiva University and Gratz College.

Religious Statements

To apply for a faculty position at most public and private colleges and universities, a candidate is usually asked to send a CV, cover letter, teaching statement, research statement, and diversity statement. However, if you are applying for a position at a school with a strong religious affiliation, you may also be asked to supply a religious statement or a statement of faith. Not all of the schools mentioned above will require one, but some will.

Here is an example of a request for a statement of faith from Whitworth University, an Evangelical liberal arts college in Spokane, Washington: “In a one-page essay (approximately 300 words), describe your Christian belief and its influence on your life.”

Other schools might ask the candidate about childhood religious upbringing, formative spiritual experiences, personal religious traditions, fidelity to a church and church participation, certain theological doctrines, beliefs about God and prayer, and service to the community.

At this point, you might be asking yourself if making religious belief a criterion for employment is legal. The answer is actually yes. These are private institutions, and if religious faith is deemed to be an essential part of an institution’s mission, the right to raise questions about a candidate’s personal faith and practice is recognized by law, accrediting agencies, and even some academic professional associations. There is also the Bona Fide Occupational Qualification (BFOQ) category within employment law. For instance, in hiring a rabbi, it is acceptable to require that the person be of the Jewish faith.

Somewhat like a diversity statement, there is no standard format for a religious statement; statements of faith are open to interpretation and are very personal and individual. Also, every school is different in their beliefs, even within the same religious tradition. Remember, some schools have a nominal connection rooted in their history that doesn’t affect day-to-day campus life. Other schools expect an adherence to the basic tenets of the given religion but would not require you to practice the religion actively. Some institutions emphasize commitment to community service and/or social justice. For others, faith and religion are an integral part of campus life, and both faculty and students are expected to adhere to certain religious doctrines and behaviors.

What to Do as an Applicant

So, how do you handle this as an applicant?

1. Learn what the school is all about

The school’s mission statement will give you a lot of information about how they view themselves. Here is the mission statement from Baylor University , a Baptist school in Waco, Texas: “Baylor is founded on the belief that God’s nature is made known through both revealed and discovered truth. Thus, the University derives its understanding of God, humanity and nature from many sources: The person and work of Jesus Christ, the biblical record, and Christian history and tradition, as well as scholarly and artistic endeavors. The mission of Baylor University is to educate men and women for worldwide leadership and service by integrating academic excellence and Christian commitment within a caring community.”

2. Thoroughly read the website

What types of religion related courses and majors are there? What’s required? Are students and faculty required to attend services or dress in a certain way?

3. Research the religion

Do research on the history and heritage of the given religion as well as the current thought and practice.

4. Talk to faculty

If you can, speak to people who recently or currently work at the school that you’re applying to in order to learn what it’s really like, day to day.

5. Find out what the school requires you to affirm

Determine whether, if you are hired, you will be required to sign a faith statement where you affirm certain theological doctrines and fidelity to a certain tradition.

6. Examine your own beliefs

Would you be willing to affirm the doctrines that the school espouses? Is the school’s faith compatible with your beliefs and how you live your life? If you disagree with some aspects, could you still live with it? Are you willing to make religious faith part of your curriculum, teaching, and research if that is what the school is requiring?

If you answer no to any of these questions, do not apply for the position. Even if you could fabricate your statement, it is never a good idea to lie on a job application, and if you got the position, it’s doubtful that you could be comfortable there.

However, if you have determined that the mission statement and the religious life of the schools mirrors your own, your job in writing the religious statement becomes fairly easy.

Writing a Statement of Faith

Tailor it to the religious beliefs and values of the institution. Give appropriate examples and narratives from your own life drawing on your childhood religious upbringing (if you have one), spiritual experiences, and current faith practice. Emphasize how your personal life, teaching, and research fit within that community of faith.

Depending on the school, it may be enough to show that you understand their mission statement, support its values, and have integrated some of their beliefs into your own life, teaching, and research, even if you have a different faith.

Obviously, this all takes a great deal of time and effort, but applications that are thoughtful and tailored to a school’s mission and values will stand out and increase your chances of landing the interview.

This entry is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International license.

Related Posts

• How to Write a Diversity Statement
• How to Write a Research Statement
• How to Write a Teaching Statement

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Personal Statement of Faith

My personal faith.

The most important part of my faith is the knowledge that there is nothing that I can do to earn the love of God as it is a gift, paid through the death and bodily resurrection of his His Son, Jesus Christ, who was God’s walking example of his Agape love on earth. I believe that this gift has been made available to every man, woman, and child;  however I believe that each must personally ask for this gift, therefore surrendering their life to God the Father, the Son and The Holy Spirit. I believe that this surrender must be unconditional, and is done by inviting Jesus Christ to be Lord in all areas of one’s life – body, soul (mind, emotions and will) and spirit.

While I believe that the local church is not the only place you practice your faith,  I also believe it is almost impossible to experience the full accountability, encouragement, and support you receive from face-to-face fellowship with other believers.  I strong believe that participating in a local fellowship is crucial to the spiritual health and balance of every believer. Through the support, accountability and encouragement I receive in my local body, I am able to extend a practical expression of my faith worldwide through this web ministry and other means.

I have been a member of Harvest Vineyard Christian Fellowship, part of Vineyard Churches Canada since 1992 but over the years I have attended several denominations from Catholic to Presbyterian, from Baptist to Pentecostal.  I am unabashedly and unapologetically Spirit-filled, and I believe that physical and spiritual healing is for today, along with all the other Gifts of the Spirit that were evident in the gospels and Acts. I believe that is only right that we fully utilize all that was paid for through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Through the covering and blessings I continue to receive through my local church, I extend a practical expression of my faith worldwide through this web ministry and other means. I have been a member of Harvest Vineyard Christian Fellowship, part of Vineyard Churches Canada since 1992 but over the years, I have attended several denominations from Catholic to Presbyterian, from Baptist to Pentecostal.  I am unabashedly and unapologetically Spirit-filled, and I believe that physical and spiritual healing is for today, along with all the other Gifts of the Spirit that were evident in the gospels and the Book of Acts. I believe that is only right that we fully utilize all that was paid for through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Formal Statement of Faith

(VINEYARD CANADA STATEMENT OF FAITH)

WE BELIEVE that God is the Eternal King. He is an infinite, unchangeable Spirit, perfect in holiness, wisdom, goodness, justice, power and love. From all eternity He exists as the One Living and True God in three persons of one substance, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, equal in power and glory.

WE BELIEVE that God’s kingdom is everlasting. From His throne, through His Son, His eternal Word, God created, upholds and governs all that exists: the heavenly places, the angelic hosts, the universe, the earth, every living thing and mankind. God created all things very good.\

WE BELIEVE that Satan, originally a great, good angel, rebelled against God, taking a host of angels with him. He was cast out of God’s presence and, as a usurper of God’s rule, established a counter-kingdom of darkness and evil on the earth.

WE BELIEVE that God created mankind in His own image, male and female, for relationship with Himself and to govern the earth. Under the temptation of Satan, our original parents fell from grace, bringing sin, sickness and God’s judgment of death to the earth. Through the fall, Satan and his demonic hosts gained access to God’s good creation. Creation now experiences the consequences and effects of Adam’s original sin. Human beings are born in sin, subject to God’s judgment of death and captive to Satan’s kingdom of darkness.

WE BELIEVE that God did not abandon His rule over the earth which He continues to uphold by His providence. In order to bring redemption, God established covenants which revealed His grace to sinful people. In the covenant with Abraham, God bound Himself to His people Israel, promising to deliver them from bondage to sin and Satan and to bless all the nations through them.

WE BELIEVE that as King, God later redeemed His people by His mighty acts from bondage in Egypt and established His covenant through Moses, revealing His perfect will and our obligation to fulfill it. The law’s purpose is to order our fallen race and to make us conscious of our moral responsibility. By the work of God’s Spirit, it convicts us of our sin and God’s righteous judgment against us and brings us to Christ alone for salvation.

WE BELIEVE that when Israel rejected God’s rule over her as King, God established the monarchy in Israel and made an unconditional covenant with David, promising that his heir would restore God’s kingdom reign over His people as Messiah forever.

WE BELIEVE that in the fullness of time, God honored His covenants with Israel and His prophetic promises of salvation by sending His Son, Jesus, into the world. Conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary, as fully God and fully man in one person, He is humanity as God intended us to be. Jesus was anointed as God’s Messiah and empowered by the Holy Spirit, inaugurating God’s kingdom reign on earth, overpowering the reign of Satan by resisting temptation, preaching the good news of salvation, healing the sick, casting out demons and raising the dead. Gathering His disciples, He reconstituted God’s people as His Church to be the instrument of His kingdom. After dying for the sins of the world, Jesus was raised from the dead on the third day, fulfilling the covenant of blessing given to Abraham. In His sinless, perfect life Jesus met the demands of the law and in His atoning death on the cross He took God’s judgment for sin which we deserve as law-breakers. By His death on the cross He also disarmed the demonic powers. The covenant with David was fulfilled in Jesus’ birth from David’s house, His Messianic ministry, His glorious resurrection from the dead, His ascent into heaven and His present rule at the right hand of the Father. As God’s Son and David’s heir, He is the eternal Messiah-King, advancing God’s reign throughout every generation and throughout the whole earth today.

WE BELIEVE that the Holy Spirit was poured out on the Church at Pentecost in power, baptizing believers into the Body of Christ and releasing the gifts of the Spirit to them. The Spirit brings the permanent indwelling presence of God to us for spiritual worship, personal sanctification, building up the Church, gifting us for ministry, and driving back the kingdom of Satan by the evangelization of the world through proclaiming the word of Jesus and doing the works of Jesus.

WE BELIEVE that the Holy Spirit indwells every believer in Jesus Christ and that He is our abiding Helper, Teacher, and Guide. We believe in the filling or the empowering of the Holy Spirit, often a conscious experience, for ministry today. We believe in the present ministry of the Spirit and in the exercise of all of the biblical gifts of the Spirit. We practice the laying on of hands for the empowering of the Spirit, for healing, and for recognition and empowering of those whom God has ordained to lead and serve the Church.

WE BELIEVE that the Holy Spirit inspired the human authors of Holy Scripture so that the Bible is without error in the original manuscripts. We receive the sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments as our final, absolute authority, the only infallible rule of faith and practice.

WE BELIEVE that the whole world is under the domination of Satan and that all people are sinners by nature and choice. All people therefore are under God’s just judgment. Through the preaching of the Good News of Jesus and the Kingdom of God and the work of the Holy Spirit, God regenerates, justifies, adopts and sanctifies through Jesus by the Spirit all who repent of their sins and trust in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. By this they are released from Satan’s domain and enter into God’s kingdom reign.

WE BELIEVE in the one, holy, universal Church. All who repent of their sins and confess Jesus as Lord and Savior are regenerated by the Holy Spirit and form the living Body of Christ, of which He is the head and of which we are all members.

WE BELIEVE that Jesus Christ committed two ordinances to the Church: water baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Both are available to all believers.

WE BELIEVE that God’s kingdom has come in the ministry of our Lord Jesus Christ, that it continues to come in the ministry of the Spirit through the Church, and that it will be consummated in the glorious, visible and triumphant appearing of Christ – His return to the earth as King. After Christ returns to reign, He will bring about the final defeat of Satan and all of his minions and works, the resurrection of the dead, the final judgment and the eternal blessing of the righteous and eternal conscious punishment of the wicked. Finally, God will be all in all and His kingdom, His rule and reign, will be fulfilled in the new heavens and the new earth, recreated by His mighty power, in which righteousness dwells and in which He will forever be worshipped.

Download scriptural basis for this statement of faith here

The Apostles Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth.

And in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended into hell. The third day he rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. From thence he will come to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Christian Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen

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1 Kings 6:1: Yep, A Whole Episode on Just One Verse (Bible Talk, Ep. 116)

A Quick-Start Guide for Church Revitalization

Adopting and choosing a statement of faith.

Many churches, including my own, either do not have a statement of faith or they have one that only vaguely affirms their adherence to the teachings of the Bible. The goal is to rid themselves of “man-made traditions” and affirm the authority of Scripture alone.

Those are admirable motivations, but not adopting a statement of faith undermines them. It exposes a church to every individual’s own interpretations of various doctrines, and opens the door for denials of biblical authority.

As part of a revitalization effort, our church has recently worked to adopt a statement of faith. Our leadership has realized that any effort to change the trajectory of our church will not succeed if we fail to establish foundational agreements about our identity.

WHY HAVE A STATEMENT OF FAITH

Why have a statement of faith at all? We heard this question a lot at first. Not only had our church never had a defined list of beliefs, few in our congregation recognized their importance. Many church members thought doctrine belonged only to theologians, and that a focus on theology was only marginally important or maybe even dangerous to the church.

But here is how we answered the “why” question.

To Promote Unity among Church Members

A statement of faith will promote unity among members. It

• protects the teaching of elders against subjective interpretations of Scripture.
• establishes doctrinal essentials (and distinctives).
• provides unifying language to explain complex doctrinal truths.
• protects the integrity of the church’s gospel message.
• identifies what doctrines and distinctives are (and are not) primary to the identity of the church.

For example, if one member of the church is a strict Sabbatarian, but Sabbatarianism is not among the tenets in that particular church’s statement of faith, the Sabbatarian and the non-Sabbatarian can practice (or not practice) their conviction in freedom and love.

To Protect the Future of the Church

A statement of faith will protect the future of the church. It

• establishes benchmark standards for the selection of teachers.
• fortifies the church against shifting cultural and denominational beliefs.
• trains potential members in basic Christian doctrine and distinctives of the church.
• becomes a tool in the discipline process for those promoting false doctrine.

For more information about the importance of a statement of faith, visit this The Gospel Coalition article written by Thabiti Anyabwile.

WHAT ISSUES SHOULD BE CONSIDERED WHEN ADOPTING A STATEMENT OF FAITH

After determining to adopt a statement of faith, we wrongly assumed that developing it would be easy. In our minds, the process for accepting a statement of faith was as simple as conducting an internet search of likeminded churches, clicking on the “What We Believe” section, and hitting copy and paste.

Though there was great value in looking at multiple statements from different churches, we discovered that not all statements of faith are alike. There are historical statements, statements that detail a sparse orthodoxy (i.e., Nicene Creed), statements that include distinctives of the church, statements for members, statements for elders, and everything in between. In the beginning, we found ourselves spending more time evaluating the other statements rather than considering what we should have in our own.

It was not until we settled the issues below that we were able to move on in the process.

Accuracy in Summarizing Biblical Truths

The first concern with any statement of faith is whether it accurately summarizes biblical truth. A statement is not Scripture, but it should affirm key biblical truths. As you approach each article, do so with both scrutiny, because you don’t want to misrepresent what Scripture says, and leniency, because summary statements cannot encapsulate every bit of biblical truth. For this reason, many churches list Scripture references to help the reader more fully understand the concepts that are being conveyed.

The Extent of Items Covered

Our team struggled with this issue for quite some time. Our major questions centered on whether the statement should include only the basics of orthodoxy or if we should also include items that distinguish our church from other evangelical churches.

As a Baptist church, we wondered if we should include our belief in believer’s baptism by immersion. Our answers to these types of question largely centered on the purpose of the document. If the statement of faith is only intended as a testing tool for new members, one would want to limit it to only matters of orthodoxy. However, if the statement is intended to both define orthodoxy and facility unity in governance and practicing the ordinances, then the church should adopt a more detailed statement of faith.  

The Need for Clarifying the Nature of the Articles

If the church decides to include distinctives, the next matter to consider is how to distinguish what’s a matter of orthodoxy and what’s a distinctives. This can serve the purpose of affirming our gospel unity with churches with whom we disagree.

In general, the statement of faith can train new members to understand what their new church believes and teaches.

The Benefits and Difficulties in Using Historical Statements

Our leadership team selected one of our denomination’s historical statements of faith. We saw great benefit in adopting a statement that had stood the test of time, addressed our distinctive issues, and represented the best of scholarship from within our denomination.

Despite our preference for these historical statements, we did find wording difficulties that needed greater clarity. Much of our concern centered on the need to modernize the language, but in a few instances there were doctrinal issues that had arisen since the documents’ inception that we wanted to address (i.e., marriage and the family, homosexuality, etc.). We had to determine if we found it acceptable to adopt a revised version of a historical statement and how much revision we could undertake and still refer to it as an “historical document.”

Responding to Opposition

If your church does not currently have a statement of faith, the biggest issue you will face will not be the statement itself, but it will be those who oppose having a statement altogether.

It’s important to explain why a statement of faith is important, but how you present and defend a statement is important as well. If a primary goal of a statement is to work for unity, you don’t want to destroy the unity en route to adopting a statement. Exercise patience with those who do not immediately see the need or who are actively opposed.

Obviously, this brief article cannot fully address every issue that may arise when adopting a statement of faith. However, the things mentioned above were helpful for our church as we went through the process, and I am hopeful that thinking through them will be helpful for your church as well. Please do feel free to comment below if you can think of other reasons to adopt a statement of faith or issues to consider in the process.

Will McCartney serves as the pastor of Farmdale Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky.

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Smart Church Management

Helping Churches Manage Their People, Time And Money

How To Write A Church Statement of Faith

April 2, 2024 by Patricia Lotich, MBA

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

For Christians, the Bible is the guidebook for all that we do and the source of inspiration and truth.

Every church has a mission and vision that fuels what they do.

Within that mission is a core belief system that is (should be) grounded in scripture.

Churches Should Articulate Their Beliefs

I volunteered at the Welcome Center at my church. We had more than the occasional visitor stop and ask about our Statement of Faith or what we, as a church, believed.

My church was proactive in taking the time to stop and think about the belief system that drove its mission, and took this statement and created a handout.

This helped those of us who worked at the Welcome Center because it made it easy to answer that question.

We were also able to give the visitors something to take with them.

People want to join a church that they share common beliefs with.

Writing a statement of faith not only confirms the ministry’s belief system but it helps church leaders stay on the same page when sharing faith with members.

4 Tips for Writing and Communicating a Statement of Faith

1. confirm your belief.

The Bible is an amazing book that people quote, read stories from, and try to learn from.

However, people have different beliefs about the Bible.

Some believe it is God-inspired writings with literal interpretation; others think it is God inspired but interpret it symbolically rather than literally.

While others believe it is an ancient text that is a source of moral truths that should be respected.

To write your statement of faith you need to be able to determine which is at the core of your church’s belief system.

Here are some questions to ask your team to get started:

• What do we believe about the Bible?
• Are the writings of the Bible God inspired?
• Are the stories in the Bible true?
• Are there errors in the Bible text?
• What do we believe about Jesus?
• Was He the Son of God?
• Was He raised from the dead?
• What do we believe about God the Father?
• What role does the Holy Spirit play?
• Do we believe in the Trinity – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit?
• What do we believe about baptism?
• What do we believe about heaven and hell?

Gather a group of the right people and take the time to answer each of these questions.

2. Identify Scripture to Support Your Beliefs

After your team answers the above questions, look for scripture to validate answers.

If your church has beliefs, there should be scripture to support those beliefs.

Every statement that you write should have a corresponding scripture reference to validate that belief.

For instance: We believe  the Bible to be the only inspired, trustworthy, and true, without error, Word of God. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

3. Write Your Statements Beginning With We Believe

Take all of the points you believe and write a statement.

For instance, begin each statement with,” We believe…”

Add the scripture to the bottom of the statement to validate the belief.

For example: We believe  there is only one God who eternally exists in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.  (Matthew 28:19)

4. Communicate Your Statement of Faith

Share your statement of faith on your website and mobile app, and have a handout available at your visitor center.

Weave your statements into sermon messages to reinforce the belief and why your church believes what it does.

Be sure to include your statement of faith in your visitor packets to ensure guests to your church will gain an understanding of your church’s beliefs.

A Statement of Faith Communicates Your Belief System

A Statement of Faith is an important document to have available to employees, members, and guests.

If your church hasn’t already done so, now might be a good time to reflect on, and write down what you believe in a statement of faith.

Does your church have a written statement of faith?

Learn more tips for your church by enrolling in our Church Administrator Course . You can explore the curriculum here!

About Patricia Lotich, MBA

Patricia Lotich is a Certified Manager of Quality and Organizational Excellence through the American Society for Quality and is the author of Smart Church Management: A Quality Approach to Church Administration . She helps churches fulfill their mission by managing their resources of - people, time and money.

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How to Declare Your Personal Christian Statement of Faith (Protestant)

Last Updated: September 27, 2020

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 11 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 46,836 times.

You may have decided to declare your basic Christian statement of faith as found in The Holy Bible: this is so you can publicly declare and explain to other people that you walk with Jesus Christ. You might consider the following tenants to include in seeking agreement with others. This is not an exhaustive statement, but it is sufficient to build on Christ Jesus, especially as you study the scriptures given in each step.

• General prayer requests
• Salvation for yourself
• Salvation for a loved one
• Finances/Work/School
• Family/Friends/Enemies
• Emotions/Concerns/Sexual problems/Disorders
• Drugs/Alcohol/Habits/Addictions
• Pray for healing of the sick, thanking God that He has already provided it, giving Him the praise: expect to see examples of His healing power, as were illustrated in the life and ministry of Jesus, and included in the commission of Jesus to all His disciples, to as many as He shall call. This blessing of divine healing is given as a sign, which is to "follow believers". It is also a part of Jesus' completed work on the Cross and is one of the gifts of the Spirit. (See: Psalm 103:2-3; Isaiah 53:5; Matthew 8:16-17; Mark 16:17-18; Acts 8:6-7; James 5:14-16; I Corinthians 12:9, 28; Romans 11:29).

• Spiritual (John 3:3-11; II Corinthians 5:17-21; Romans 10:9-10).
• Mental and Emotional (II Timothy 1:7, 2:11; Philippians 4:7-8; Romans 12:2; Isaiah 26:3).
• Physical (Isaiah 53:4,5; Matthew 8:17; I Peter 2:24).
• Financial (Joshua 1:8; Malachi 3:10-11; Luke 6:38; II Corinthians 9:6-10; Deuteronomy 28:1-14; Psalm 34:10, 84:11; Philippians 4:19).

Community Q&A

• Read the Holy Bible including scriptures given in each step: Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Jesus said, "Come unto me all you who labor/work and are heavy loaded, and I will give you rest." -- but "Except you repent (change you mind) you shall all likewise perish..." So rest in Him alone; or perish separated by ones own choice. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 1
• During the COVID-19 pandemic, many churches will be closed. Wait until churches in your area reopen before attending any sort of meeting with a large group of other people. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Things You'll Need

• The Holy Bible

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• Based upon the "STATEMENT OF FAITH" seen at http://www.churchofthehighlands.com/about/faith (the Church of the Highlands began in 2001 with 350 people attending, presenting the Gospel, winning souls, growing in its second decade to more than 20,000 active members, with even more participating in small group meetings).
• All strictly free of charge: http://www.biblecc.com has 25 Bible versions and numerous languages as well, parallel versions and commentaries, maps, concordances, etc.
• Want verses in Your own language? FREE online with multiple versions in 48 languages: scroll down the home page to find languages other than English here: http://biblehub.com/biblos.htm ...

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How to Write Your Testimony

Use this 5-step outline to share your personal story of salvation

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Skeptics may debate the validity of Scripture or argue the existence of God, but no one can deny your personal experiences with God. If you tell someone how God worked a miracle in your life, how he blessed you, transformed you, lifted and encouraged you, or perhaps even broke and then healed you, no one can argue or debate it. When you share your Christian testimony, you go beyond the field of knowledge into the realm of relationship with God .

Tips to Remember as You Write Your Testimony

• Stick to the point. Your conversion and new life in Christ should be the main points.
• Be specific. Include events, genuine feelings, and personal insights that clarify your main point. Make your testimony tangible and relevant so others can relate to it.
• Be current. Tell what's happening in your life with God right now, today.
• Be honest. Don't exaggerate or dramatize your story. The simple, straightforward truth of what God has done in your life is all the Holy Spirit needs to convict others and convince them of God's love and grace.

5 Steps to Writing Your Testimony

These steps explain how to write your testimony. They apply to both long and short, written and spoken testimonies. Whether you're planning to write down your full, detailed testimony or prepare a quick 2-minute version for a short-term mission trip , these steps will help you tell others with sincerity, impact, and clarity, what God has done in your life.

1 - Realize Your Testimony Is Powerful

First and foremost, remember, there is power in your testimony. The Bible says we overcome our enemy by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony:

Then I heard a loud voice shouting across the heavens, “It has come at last— salvation and power and the Kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters has been thrown down to earth— the one who accuses them before our God day and night. And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony. And they did not love their lives so much that they were afraid to die. (Revelation 12:10–11, (NLT)

Many other Bible verses reveal the power of sharing your testimony. Spend a few minutes looking them up: Acts 4:33 ; Romans 10:17 ; John 4:39 .

2 - Study an Example in the Bible

Read Acts 26 . Here the Apostle Paul gives his personal testimony before King Agrippa. He tells about his life before his conversion on the road to Damascus when he persecuted the followers of the Way. Next, Paul describes in detail his miraculous encounter with Jesus and his calling to serve Christ as an apostle . Then he goes on to tell of his new life after turning to God.

3 - Spend Time in Preparation and Prayer

Here are a few things to consider before you start writing your testimony: Think about your life before you met the Lord. What was going on in your life leading up to your conversion? What problems or needs were you facing at the time? How did your life change after knowing Jesus Christ ? Pray and ask God to help you share what he wants you to include.

4 - Use a 3-Point Outline

A three-point approach is very effective in communicating your personal testimony. This outline focuses on before you trusted Christ, how you surrendered to him, and the changes in your life since you began walking with him.

• Before:  Simply tell what your life was like before you surrendered to Christ. What were you searching for before coming to know Christ? What was the chief problem, emotion, situation, or attitude you were dealing with? What motivated you to seek a change? What were your actions and thoughts at the time? How did you try to satisfy your inner needs? (Examples of inner needs are loneliness, fear of death, insecurity, etc. Possible ways to fill those needs include work, money, drugs, relationships, sports, sex.) Remember to use concrete, relatable examples.
• How: How did you come to salvation in Jesus? Simply tell the events and circumstances that caused you to consider Christ as the solution to your searching. Take time to identify the steps that brought you to the point of trusting Christ. Where were you? What was happening at the time? What people or problems influenced your decision?
• Since: How has your life in Christ made a difference? How has his forgiveness impacted you? How have your thoughts, attitudes, and emotions changed? Share how Christ is meeting your needs and what your relationship with him means to you now.

5 - Words to Avoid

Stay away from " Christianese " phrases. "Churchy" words can alienate listeners/readers and keep them from identifying with your life. People who are unfamiliar or even uncomfortable with church and Christianity might not understand what you are saying. They may mistake your meaning or even be turned off by your "foreign language." Here are some examples:

Avoid using the term " born again ." Instead, use these words:

• spiritual birth
• spiritual renewal
• spiritual awakening
• come alive spiritually
• given a new life
• my eyes opened

Avoid using "saved." Instead, use terms like:

• delivered from despair
• found hope for life

Avoid using "lost." Instead, say:

• heading in the wrong direction
• separated from God
• had no hope
• had no purpose

Avoid using "gospel." Instead, consider saying:

• God's message to man
• the good news about Christ's purpose on earth
• God's message of hope for the world

Avoid using "sin." Instead, try one of these expressions:

• rejecting God
• missing the mark
• falling away from the right path
• a crime against God's law
• disobedience to God
• going my own way with no thought of God

Avoid using "repent." Instead, say things like:

• admit I was wrong
• change one's mind, heart, or attitude
• decide to turn away
• turn around
• make a 180 degree turn from what you were doing
• follow God's Word
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Writing the Personal Statement of Faith for Confirmation Students

November 21, 2020.

I had the pleasure, a few days ago, of being one of the minister-coaches for confirmation students who were writing personal statements of faith.  This particular confirmation class consisted mostly of senior high students.  They were moving towards church membership at the First Presbyterian Church in Sarasota, Florida.  My task as a coach was to meet one-on-one with them, answer questions, and support them as they worked to improve their first drafts. 

As each student read aloud what he or she had written, I was surprised at how thoughtful the drafts were.  I’m a newly retired minister.  I’ve just moved to Sarasota and am new to First Presbyterian.  I don’t know much about the congregation’s confirmation class or youth program.  But as I listened and talked with these confirmands I knew that somewhere in their church experience they had been nurtured in an unusually effective education program.  This background gave rise to, not lots of Sunday school data, but thoughtful personal affirmations. As we talked I toyed with the thought that these statements were comparable to those of third year seminary students preparing for ordination.

Admittedly, the students I worked with were older than the average member of Presbyterian confirmation classes.  In congregations where I’ve been the minister, confirmands could be as young as 12.   This is why I’ve avoided asking kids to write up a personal statement of faith.  I remember one confirmation retreat where one of our little boys, a couple of months shy of our minimum age, begged us to phone his parents so he could go home to sleep in his own bead.

Getting one’s beliefs on paper in an organized way is difficult, especially the first time it is attempted.   It’s unfair to give middle school students a pencil and paper and ask them to write a statement of faith in half an hour. Congregations and their education committees need to be respectful both of the task’s complexity and of their students’ capacity to choose words carefully and fit them together in a sensible way.

Third year Presbyterian seminary students develop statements of faith which are required by the governing body which ordains them. These run a page or two in length, sometimes take weeks to complete, benefit from the input of a coach or committee, and will entail several drafts.

A couple of years ago, I wrote an article titled, “ Writing the Personal Statement of Faith .”  I wrote that piece in conjunction with the writing of my own most recent statement of faith, which was required by the Peace River Presbytery as part of its routine in admitting ministers to its membership.

I decided to publish the statement along with a reflection about the task of writing such affirmations on my website. What surprised me was that that post became the most popular piece on my blog.    Approximately, 10,000 people from all over the world have found it on Google and clicked into it.  Clearly, people are facing the challenge of writing faith statements for classes, job applications, and ministerial positions. 

But I’ve just participated in a program where the faith statement task is going well and I’m freshly enthusiastic about how these can help one’s spiritual development.

I’m also seeing how students can be supported in their own writing and benefit from a couple of strategies that will make the task much more manageable, which is the subject of the rest of this post.

I. Writing a personal statement is difficult.

Everything I suggest below revolves around this insight. The task is difficult for me. It’s difficult for people with theological training. 

It’s especially difficult the first time.   For middle school age confirmands, pulling together a statement may seem like an terrifying task.   Churches today have de-emphasized theological language and doctrine in their religious education. So even youth who have had an excellent church experience may not have exposure to even rudimentary Christian ideas. For more on this check out the findings by the respected National Study of Youth and Religion . 

One way dial back the scariness of the faith statement is to ask honestly whether these are a part of the congregation’s general practice.  Church leaders, from the ministers to the governing board, should discuss and “own” the decision to ask students to attempt the write a statement of faith.  If church officers, adult membership candidates, and religious educators are not writing statements of faith, neither should confirmation students be?  If, on the other hand, writing and sharing what one believes is part of a church’s culture, then when youth undertake the task it will indeed feel like a rite of passage and a rich experience.

The first step is a conversation. Will the faith statement be a manageable exercise that fully supported by the church, and integratal to congregational life? Or is it a tacked on exercise that only youth do.

At some point long before the confirmation class is announced church leaders (and ideally parents and confirmation students) need to have a clear-eyed conversation about what confirmands will be asked to do.

II. Students should know why writing a faith statement is important

They should also know how their statement will be used.  Again, this is a church leadership decision.  Will the statements be displayed or read in a service of worship, be used to flag unorthodox views, serve as a kind of written exam, be the center of discussion if and when students meet with church elders or other leaders, be a learning tool designed to stretch students’ understanding, or be a way for youth to move towards development of their own version of Christian faith, which will be celebrated by instructors? 

Teachers should be mindful of students who might be apprehensive of expressing what may be deeply emotional and undeveloped feelings of intimacy with God and faith.   If youth are going to pick up a pen and begin writing down what they believe, then they need to do so knowing that whatever they produce will be cherished by their church. 

I have participated in confirmation classes where the entire class produces a statement of faith.  I think that a group effort is less than ideal.  Here’s why. Christian faith has produced creeds and confessions of faith for hundreds of years.  These are group efforts.  While creeds and confessions, like the Westminster Confession of Faith or the Confession of 1967, deal with the same ideas found in a personal statement of faith, the purpose of a creed is different.  Creeds attempt to restate how Christian faith has impact on a particular cultural situation.

Confirmation is essentially a renewal of baptism, though not a new water baptism. Typically, when a child or baby is baptized he or she is unable to make a public statement of faith.  Confirmation is a church exercise, which provides “adults” an opportunity to claim or reaffirm the faith that was stated, usually by parents, at the time of water baptism. 

So confirmation is a about personal belief and the statement of faith aims to give birth to one’s own relationship with God.

III. Patient, one-on-one coaching should be abundantly available

Coaches are church leaders who have theological training and experience in writing their own statements of faith. Additionally, students should be allowed to talk with and coach one another. By this I mean that statements of faith greatly benefit from much conversation among people who have struggled to write down what they believe. These conversations will be as valuable as the writing itself. 

IV. Statements of faith typically touch on several predictable topics

Providing a list of these topics will greatly assist youth in beginning to work with their ideas.  Leaders can provide a list.  The class can join in adding to it. 

Not surprisingly, the core list of topics can include: God the Father, Christ, Holy Spirit, Creation, Church, Bible, Israel, Salvation, The End of All Things, Evil, Ethics, Sacraments, Kingdom of God, Heaven and Hell. 

There will be other topics that are important to confirmands.  Teachers will find it eye-opening to learn about topics that students feel important enough to include in their statement.  Additional topics might include: angels, devil, mission, science, religion, soul, animals, goodness, truth, beauty, and love.   

Beginning with a list gives students something tangible to work with.  The list is not closed and confirmands may want to include their own categories.  One of the students I worked with told me that science was important to him and he wanted to work it into his statement. 

As students begin writing out their list, they will realize that some topics need to be cut out or dealt with minimally in their statements.  Limiting and prioritizing is hard work and teachers should let students struggle with this task.

The final statement will include a sentence or two about each category or topic.  How long?  The Apostle’s Creed is 115 words long and my most recent personal statement of faith is right around 1000 words.  So, that begins to narrow it down.   One page or 250 words might be a reasonable target. 

V. The sequence and organization of the topics will make the statement distinct and personal

Both the Apostles Creed and my personal statement of faith are organized around the three persons of the Trinity.  Father, Son, Holy Spirit.  Of course, there is no necessity to use this scheme.  The statement can be twofold– Creation and Redemption.  I could see an interesting statement arising out of the the three great values of goodness, truth, and beauty.  How about faith, hope, and love?  

Generally speaking, I think that the threefold, trinitarian outline is the easiest to work with. But it’s not the only way to approach the statement of faith. My point is that the organization of a statement is where the student will need to be imaginative and will possibly need to learn more about Christianity in order to make the statement hang together.

Even a threefold, Trinity organization can vary the sequence of “persons.”  The Apostles’ Creed is organized around the traditional Father, Son, Spirit formula.  But what about the reverse ordering—Spirit, Son, Father.  Maybe the Holy Spirit is that expression of God that touches and draws us towards God first.  Then we meet Christ.  Last of all, we understand the creative and providential working of the Father. 

The organization of the statement presses us to think how different elements are related.  Do the sacraments (baptism and the Lord’s Supper) belong in the Spirit, Son, or Father category?  How is evil related to the Kingdom of God?  These are the kinds of challenges that writing a faith statement will raise.  Hopefully, when the students run into these good dilemmas, they will have one another and thoughtful coaches who can raise powerful questions and provide bits of missing information.

So, two strategies will increase the chances that the personal statement of faith will be a successful part of confirmation.  The first is creating a safe environment.   The statement of faith is not or should not be a test.  It should not cause younger, less motivated, or shy students to stand out in an embarrassing way. 

Second, the teachers should provide tools to prime the pump.   The list of topics, the role of the outline or structure, kindly coaches, plenty of time, acknowledgement of the difficulty of the task, and a guarantee of praise when the job is done will greatly encourage even the most discouraged student.

Doug DeCelle

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Aryn The Libraryan

Could you write a personal statement of faith.

Aryn January 8, 2024 Faith 21 Comments

If someone asked you to describe your faith, what would you say? Are you prepared to share the reason for the hope that is in you? (1 Peter 3:15) 

If you were talking with a fellow believer and were trying to evaluate your current spiritual state, would you have the words? 

These are some questions I’ve been asking myself since I first read a very unique (and somewhat unlikely) story. I’ll share all about that towards the bottom of the post because it was a lot of fun. But first, let’s see if we can tackle the whole ‘sharing your faith life’ thing. 

Please note that this post contains affiliate links for your convenience. If you make a purchase through one of the links, I may make a small commission. I only recommend books and resources that I’ve enjoyed personally, or believe that you would like. You can read my full disclosure here . You will also find information on Scripture translations there.

What Is Your Personal Statement of Faith in Jesus Christ?

Have you ever thought about your personal faith statement? Encapsulating what you believe into a few sentences or paragraphs? It doesn’t have to be fancy or ‘eloquent’ to qualify. It could even just be a bullet list.

This is a valuable exercise, to put what you believe into words, along with why it’s important to you.

Most denominations and organizations have theirs posted on their websites. Let’s glance through a few to get us started.

God, Scripture, and Other Important Beliefs

• The Scripture : The Bible is a gift from God, the message he wanted us to have. The books of the Old and New Testaments share the promise of God’s kingdom and eternal hope. It also houses warnings and patterns of God’s faithfulness to help us grow and trust him more.
• God : Creator, Sustainer, Counselor, Friend, Savior, Guide. God exists in three persons, God the father, God the Son, and the Holy Spirit, equal and all-powerful. All-knowing, compassionate, faithful, and unable to tolerate sin. This is why he sent his son, Jesus as our messiah, our Lord and savior, to pay the penalty and show us how to live right. The Holy Spirit is our guide and helper.
• Man : We were created as ‘very good’ but soon put our own interests ahead of God, and lost more than we could imagine. To reject the word of God in favor of a tempting lie was devastating, and yet we still do that today. However, by the grace of God, any who believe that Jesus Christ came to earth, lived a sinless life, died, and rose again, will be saved . 
• The Church : The church is not a building, but the members of God’s family. Those of us who have heard the good news and claimed it for ourselves. Our purpose is to praise God, and bring him the glory. To serve in his kingdom and help others along the way. 
• Lord’s Supper and Baptism : Communion, or the Lord’s Supper, and Baptism are two symbols of our faith that express our commitment and our beliefs about God. The ways these are done vary, but the meaning behind them points to God every time, and they shouldn’t be taken lightly. 

As I started writing this section, I automatically formatted it to match what I knew growing up as a Baptist. Which I find hilarious because it’s so easy to default to what you’ve always known. But I love the way the Vineyard formats theirs, and I highly recommend you take a few moments to read what you will find at all four links in the next section.

Faith Statement Examples From Different Christian Religious Groups

These are denominations I’ve been connected with in one way or another over the years, though not currently. Also a couple of independent churches with similar core values and beliefs. Most of the core values and beliefs are the same, or very closely related. How they live out that faith and practice their religious beliefs varies between denominations and even between churches.

I find it fascinating to see the differences because each church is a unique blend of the passions, strengths, and weaknesses (and special interests) of its members. Having lived in multiple states, belonged to a variety of churches, and worked at a couple, I’ve had the privilege of seeing a variety of interpretations of these statements:

• The basic beliefs of the Southern Baptists can be found here.
• The core values of the Vineyard can be found here.
• The United Methodist Church
• Calvary Chapel

How to Write a Statement of Faith

Those are all nice institution or denominational statements, but we want to take time to reflect and make it ours. To intentionally buy in, and express our position clearly.

So having a list of questions to answer might be helpful. I liked this one .

But basically, make a list of important aspects of your faith in God. Expand those points in a sentence or paragraph. List the Bible verses that support your confidence. 

Short personal statement of faith examples

For instance

“I believe that God created everything, sent his only son to pay the penalty for our rejection, is still active in our lives today, and is coming back to settle all accounts one day.”

“I believe in God, who loves me so much that he sent his only Son to die in my place, so that our relationship could be restored. I don’t always understand or like what is happening, but I trust that God is good, and in control, and will work all things to my good if I love him and stay in right relationship with him. I know that salvation is a free gift I cannot earn, but that good works are what should naturally pour out from my gratitude.

Deb over at Counting Your Blessings has a few great words to  explain your faith  with.

About the Book That Inspired This Post

Book : Thirty Days Hath

Author : Chautona Havig

Genre : Christian fiction, contemporary romance

Release Date: Revised edition, Feb 26, 2019

Blind Dates Are for Wimps!

At least, that’s what Adric Garrison thinks. Can you blame him? Thanks to his sister and brother-in-law, Adric is about to embark on a year of month-long, chaperoned, blind dates. Awkward.

He didn’t ask for it. But Adric still finds himself living what seems more like a bad TV reality show than a new life in Fairbury.

Once an ordinary (if prematurely gray and vertically challenged) guy, Adric is now Fairbury’s newest “most eligible bachelor,” and dreams of permanent bachelorhood loom on the horizon. Will he call it quits before the year is out, or will one of his “girls of the month” change his mind?

One man, twelve women, one happily ever after.

Thirty Days Hath…

Okay, Pastors organizing Live-in blind dates?   No, this isn’t a reality TV show, it’s Adric’s life.  

Being the “test pilot” of a new and extremely unusual program, the brain-child of the local Pastors Association could be scary, stressful, and possibly the best thing to ever happen to any of these fine people.  

The comedy of awkward first dates, hard-core premarital counseling discussions, and town gossip is blended with friendship, sweet romance, and just the right amount of humor.  

If it weren’t for the sabotage, the complete lack of privacy, and thoughts of permanent bachelorhood, Adric would be having a great year!  

Christine from February is probably my favorite character. Between her sense of humor and outgoing personality, she would steal anyone’s heart.   But then there’s Allison. And Becca, and Jael, and… Well, you get the idea.  

Honestly, if more people took the time to talk specifically and ask some of the questions from the personal profiles (Describe your faith, flaws, virtues…) in the beginning of any relationship, marriages might have a better chance! This is the inspiration for the printable below.

The Best Parts

The beauty of Chautona’s work is two-fold: firstly, it often serves as a mirror of character flaws and virtues. Second, while each of the books or sets stand alone, characters have a way of popping up again in other books. So if you enjoy this, and want to know more about someone, you usually can.  

For example, you can find some of these ladies in The Agency Files , Past Forward , and Oh, Gracious .  

If you like romantic comedy, self-sacrifice done well, or Christianity lived out, you should give this a try.  

*Note, there is one woman who has a mental breakdown, which is not treated lightly. It’s given the respect it is due.  

About the Author

Chautona Havig lives in an oxymoron, escapes into imaginary worlds that look startlingly similar to ours and writes the stories that emerge. An irrepressible optimist, Chautona sees everything through a kaleidoscope of It’s a Wonderful Life sprinkled with fairy tales. Find her on the web and say howdy—if you can remember how to spell her name.

More from Chautona

A silent truth no one admits: blind dates are for wimps.

Maybe I’m not the one to talk. After all, I never dated. Not really. My best friend in high school was a guy. We went to the movies. We did things. Still, we were just great friends.

I had what might be considered one date in Lubbock, Texas in 1987. Maybe. I didn’t consider it one, but I suppose the guy might have. Maybe.

Then I went from best friends with the guy I’ve been married to for 30 years to engaged in the span of a few seconds after what might have been a rhetorical question . He’s under orders not to tell me if it was. After all, he’s the fool who went on to say, “I do.” Just sayin’.

Still, in the first decade of the 21 st century, I discovered a new “thing” in reality TV. The Bachelor . Though I tried watching it, I couldn’t after a while. It started out reasonably clean, but then it devolved into cat fights, spit-swapping sessions, and drama. Oh, the drama.

But one aspect intrigued me.

The focused attention to finding the girl. What if Christians did that? What if we stopped playing the silly game of “pretend we’re not in this to see if you’re someone I could put up with for the next fifty or sixty years…”? Oh, man. What if the church rallied around its members and helped without pushing.

Trust me, you don’t want to push too much. You may discover that the people you’re pushing just get together and talk about it. Laugh at your antics. Mock the ridiculousness of it. Not that Kevin and I ever did that back in the day or anything. (Check out that story HERE .)

That “what if?” spurred an idea.

Sister churches. Chaperones. Not a couple of weeks in a giant house somewhere, but a whole month of real living with someone, day in. Day out. And again, with that chaperone to avoid that “appearance of evil” thing. If you could spend that much time with someone, seeing warts, virtues, best and worst sides… well, maybe you might just be right for each other.

At the least, you’d have a good idea if you even wanted to find out. That’s a healthier and quicker start than two or three months of a date here or there and hoping you’re seeing the real person. Right?

I created a character and ran with it. From giving him less than Hollywood good looks, to an anger problem and a blue-collar job, Adric had lots going for him… and not so much!

Then I tested it out. Acid test. I signed him up for eHarmony.

No, really. I did.

For the record, apparently short, prematurely graying mechanics with anger issues are a hot commodity. It took hours to get it set up, but man there were many women out there for him… supposedly.

And to this day, my Gmail email (that I never use) still says [email protected]. No joke.

For what it’s worth, Adric learned one very difficult lesson that year.

As I’ve already confessed. I’ve never been on a blind date. I doubt anyone would even consider that I’ve been on a date. Still, after writing this book, I know for one thing. Blind Dates Are for Wimps.

How Would You Describe Your Spiritual Life?

I recently did a study on discipleship. We spent a lot of time on the passage in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 Considering a professional athlete compared to a hobby athlete. We compared the two, and all I could say was Ouch!    

The difference in investment, including time, energy, commitment level, distractability, etc. The difference in skill level, passion, pressure, friend choices, and how much you share about it. I must say that my faith often looks more like a hobby.

Thinking in terms of athletics training, how would you describe your spiritual life? For me, my investment in discipleship seems more on par with a hobbyist than a professional.   But I won’t give up.   Because He won’t give up on me!!      

Describe Your Spiritual Journey

Remember it’s a journey, this faith walk we are on. To describe your spiritual journey today includes both how you would describe your faith years ago AND how you would describe your faith today!  

Charting your growth is a big part of the process.

What Does Your Faith Mean to You? Time to Describe Your Faith!

What does your faith mean to you ?   How would you describe your faith? comment below, if you would like. Then read Thirty Days Hath…. It’ll have you laughing so hard, and then get you thinking!  

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21 Comments on “Could You Write a Personal Statement of Faith?”

Aryn, it’s so important that we know WHAT we believe, and WHY—and be able to share that with biblical reference. Thanks for this post making people think about describing their faith. It’s an important thing to think about. Thanks for lining up at InstaEncouragements!

You’re welcome! It is important, and I hope we will be better equipped going forward from here. Just thinking about it is a good first step. Putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) has a way of clarification.

Hey, Aryn! Thank you so much for the shout out. I was blessed by your statement of faith. I agree with Patsy, I think it’s important for us to know what we believe and why we believe it. Blessings and thanks again!

You’re most welcome Deb! It was more fun than I thought it would be to write my personal statement of faith!

I’m not a fan of reality shows. My faith has always been deep and personal, and I have lightened up on clinging to Jesus because He has me. He has a way of matching the right people.

I don’t watch any “reality” shows either. But Thirty Days Hath…, well, its pretty cool!

I’m honored that you chose to describe your faith here, and yes, He absolutely has you!

Thank you so much Aryn, God bless.

I actually love reality tv (my guilty pleasure) although I hardly get time to read it. I really need to think about the question, “how would you describe your faith?” What I want to say is not the truth, which is actually not good for me…I really need to do some soul searching.

I can relate! Writing out my personal statement of faith was trickier than I thought it would be, to keep it honest and still full of how much faith I have!

This book, as many of Chautona’s, is amazing. I was challenged, too!

Absolutely! I’m glad I wasn’t alone in that!

This is great!! It’s funny, but one of the first questions I remember asking my (now) hubby is “how is your spiritual life?” We were having a pretty deep talk, and I can never have a deep talk without bringing God into it. His answer helped draw us together!

That’s awesome! Thanks for sharing this with us. It helps to hear real life ‘describe your faith’ examples, as well as the entertaining ones like in Thirty Days Hath…!

How would I describe my faith? I am a sinner, saved by grace. A child of the king and so very thankful for that. Unfortunately, I love the Bachelor shows, although the Lord knows it’s my personal battle. The book sounds fun! Thanks for sharing.

Thank you Wendy! It’s an honor to have you describe your faith and your battle! I hope you enjoy Thirty Days Hath…!

I am so intrigued by this book! Just wow! And these questions are some really good and important ones! I’m sharing this with our marriage small group! Thank you!

The book is an amazing blend of entertainment and challenging! And I wish I could be there for the conversation in your small group!

Interesting post! I loved the thought-provoking questions. I married one of my college friends. We attended a small Christian college and went to church together, so I already had a good idea of his faith/beliefs. I pray that my own children find Christian spouses.

Amen! That is my prayer too. I married a friend as well and its nice to have watched him describe his faith in daily life!!

The comparison between the professional athlete and the hobby athlete was spot on!

Thanks for that. The implications of the comparison between a hobby Christian and a genuine one was painful to think about.

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Writing a Christian Personal Statement

Writing any application for a school can be difficult, and writing the Personal Statement can become the most challenging part of it. By the time you are preparing to submit an application, most of its elements are already fixed: your GPA, your MCAT or GRE scores, the activities you did (or didn’t do). The Personal Statement, however, is an open field of possibilities in self expression, and that sense of ambiguity lends itself to great liberty and/or great anxiety.

Admittedly, the title is somewhat misleading. A “Christian” personal statement shouldn’t technically be very different from any other personal statement. It still has to accomplish the same goals, which are fairly well defined in the context of applying for a graduate or professional school. As an example, an excellent source on the Medical School Personal Statement  would advise you to focus on answering these questions:

• What have you done that supports your interest in becoming a doctor?
• Why do you want to be a doctor?
• How have your experiences influenced you?

Sounds simple? It’s not. Few people can easily articulate the reasons why they want to go into medicine (and this even includes those who have been  working in medicine). As reflected on before , the most powerful reasons tend to be emotionally charged and heavily driven by personal experiences, desires, and ambitions. Sometimes these reasons spring from tangible and discrete moments that are relatively simple to describe: a father becomes ill, a friend becomes helpless, a tragedy unfolds in which the universal compulsion to heal and to comfort becomes central and even life-changing. But sometimes those reasons are harder to describe: a series of loosely connected jobs that led to an internal conviction, an affection for both the material and immaterial, a search for a career grounded in the authenticity of human experiences.

The more personal these experiences are, the more uncomfortable and self-conscious we become in describing them. We wonder if others will see things from our perspective, and as we struggle to describe them in nouns and adjectives and run-on sentences, we find it easy to become paralyzed by the fear that the reader/admission officer/judge will fail to understand . . . and in doing so, reject us as both applicants and as people. It is deeply unsettling because the process will require an act of introspection and then an act of public revelation.

So, like all other expressions of self-revelation, we are tempted to edit heavily. We want to be accepted for who we are but we also want to achieve a goal. We have an ideal that motivates us, but in order to achieve it we must submit it to the scrutiny of another . . . and in that process, we risk having it change.

What do I mean by this? I mean that I volunteered at a soup kitchen because I wanted to help people, but in writing the essay I wanted to make sure that the reader understood just how deeply I felt that emotion, so I overplayed the descriptions of how scraggly the hobo’s beard looked or how heart-melting that child’s eyes were. I mean that I did research because it sounded interesting and I enjoyed tinkering around in the lab, but I wanted my work to be respected so I added a gazillion extra adjectives about how triumphant or beatified I felt when gazing through the clear liquid in a test tube. I mean that I felt helpless when I sat by my friend’s bed as she lay dying or in watching my sister get bullied in speech therapy, but I wanted to do rightly by them in becoming a doctor so I wrote whatever bastardized piece of junk I felt needed to be written in order to get the job done. I mean I wanted to talk about Jesus and what he meant to me, but I couldn’t because it might get us both thrown out of school before we even started there.

I realized that the real work of writing a Personal Statement was to stop myself from selling myself. I was not a product out on the marketplace to be distinguished only by my differences in merit and form, but a unique person whose path had already been determined by a loving and sovereign Lord. I was not applying to different schools out of a statistical strategy for maximizing the probability of admission, but because each institution’s strengths and weaknesses could cause me to grow and be shaped differently for the work of the Lord. It helped me understand myself better, realizing in some circumstances that some of my applications were actually not the best thing for me. And I found that though thinking in this way was far more difficult than simply optimizing a resume, it restored a sense of purpose and intentionality to an otherwise superficial and anxiety-provoking time. It made descriptions of myself more vulnerable but more honest, which inadvertently made things more confident and more peaceful.

It made them Christ-centered, and therefore Christian.  In the words of the Psalmist :

O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether. You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it.

Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me. If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me, and the light about me be night,” even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with you.

Writing a Christian Personal Statement:  Part 2 ,  Part 3 .

About the author:

David graduated from Princeton University with a degree in Electrical Engineering and received his medical degree from Rutgers - Robert Wood Johnson Medical School with a Masters in Public Health concentrated in health systems and policy. He completed a dual residency in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at Christiana Care Health System in Delaware. He continues to work in Delaware as a dual Med-Peds hospitalist. Faith-wise, he is decid­edly Christian, and regarding everything else he will gladly talk your ear off about health policy, the inner city, gadgets, and why Disney’s Frozen is actually a terrible movie.

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• Testimony , How to Share Your Faith

Your Story Is His Story

Every time you tell your story of how you became a follower of Jesus (your testimony), you give honor and glory to God, and He is pleased with that.

Your story — regardless of how “spectacular” or “ordinary” you think it is — is a story about God’s character. It is your eyewitness account of how God rescued you from sin and death through Christ and changed your life as a result.

When you share your story with others, you help them get to know what God is like and what He can do.

Whether you are in line at the grocery store, sitting with a family member or standing in front of a group of people, the Bible calls you to “always be ready” to explain your hope in Christ with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15-16, NLT).

You may think that because it’s your story, you don’t have to do anything to be ready to tell it. After all, you were there when it happened, and you’re living it now.

But you can get nervous, become side-tracked or forget things when you’re sharing your testimony, which can be confusing or distracting for those listening. This is why a little preparation and practice can be so valuable.

Put It Together

Let’s take a look at how to put your story together, piece by piece. There are five basic parts to telling your story: the opening, your life before Christ, how you came to Christ, your life after Christ and the closing.

• The Opening. Identify a theme you can use to frame your story. What did your life revolve around (e.g., relationships, your reputation, money) that God used to help bring you to Him? Briefly illustrate how that influenced your life.
• Your Life Before Christ. Paint a picture of what your life was like before you came to Christ. Don’t dwell too much on or brag about past sins or struggles. Share only the details that relate to your theme — just enough to show your need for Christ.
• How You Came to Christ. Give the details about why and how you became a Christian. Communicate in such a way that the person you are talking with, and anyone who overhears you, can understand how they can become a Christian too. Even if your listeners are not ready for that, God could use your story and explanation of the gospel to draw them to Himself in the future.
• Your Life After Coming to Christ. Share some of the changes that Christ has made in your life as they relate to your theme. Emphasize the changes in your character, attitude or perspective, not just the changes in behavior. Be realistic. We still struggle as Christians. Life is far from perfect. But what’s different about your life now?
• The Closing. End with a statement that summarizes your story and connects everything back to your theme. You may even want to close with a Bible verse that relates to your experience.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Pray before you write out and share your story.
• Write the way you speak.
• Don’t be overly negative or positive. Be honest.
• Don’t criticize or name any church, denomination, organization, etc.
• Think about your listeners. Avoid overly religious terms.
• Keep it short. Aim to tell your story in three to five minutes.
• Practice telling your story until it becomes natural.

Now that you know how, write out your story using the guide in  “Your Story is God’s Story: Creating Your Testimony.”

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How to Write a Faith Statement for Confirmation

A statement of faith for confirmation indicates what you believe trust and hope in. Keep reading to find out what information you need to write a faith statement of confirmation.

Statements of Faith

A statement of faith for confirmation indicates what you believe trust and hope in. To start with, a faith statement is one in which you describe your hope, belief, and trust in the form of a summary. You can call it your personal statement of faith in God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit’s presence in your life. You might be seeking an answer to the question, “What is my relationship with God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit?”

Make it Personal

The statement of faith must be personal and unique. But some of the points are necessary to include in it. Others are up to you. You want to make sure your statement of faith is powerful so that anyone who reads it will know exactly how you feel about your faith. One example is the confirmation of faith that means a person acknowledges his/her faith in Jesus Christ, so what should you include in your own statement of faith?

Selecting Topics

1.  statements of faith frequently include a variety of predicted topics.

Topic selection is the first step toward writing a statement of faith for confirmation. If you are confused about the topic selection, you can ask church leaders to assist you. But if you are still a student, then perhaps a Sunday school teacher can guide you in topic selection.

The topics include God the Father, the Holy Spirit, Jesus, the Son of God, Creation, the Church, the Bible, the end times, evil, ethics, the Sacraments, the Kingdom of God, Heaven, and Hell. Other topics could include your beliefs about angels, missions, or other such things. And ask yourself, “How long will the statement of purpose range in words? Will it be from between 115 to 1000 words? A reasonable word count is one page or about 250 words.

2.  Write a Belief Paragraph

First off, describe the subjects; you should use conversational language in your introduction to capture the reader’s interest to let her see your point of view. Remember that a personal essay about ideas should inform the reader and elicit empathy rather than trying to persuade them.

When you’re ready to write an essay about yourself, remember that most people think that it is a challenging task, and it is, but before you start writing, you must keep in mind that you should create an outline of your family history, academic achievements, and your future goals or aims. An essay’s effective writing skills and organization can make your story attractive to the readers.

3.  Suggestions to Write the I believe statement

The beginning of the faith statement for confirmation can be as follows:

● I believe that failure can make the individual successful

● I believe that Jesus Christ is the Creator of all things

● I believe that our God is loving, kind, and forgiving God

● I believe in loving, understanding, and accepting God

4.  Describe Your Personal Faith Statements

Personal faith statements represent a person’s thoughts and their relationship with God, the Church, and with Jesus Christ. The common phrases used in the beginning are “believe” to show their faith journeys and mention scriptures.

A statement of faith for confirmation should clearly indicate your faith in God. The person writing a faith statement means that they show the importance of faith throughout his life. It must be brief, but it is mandatory to be informative.

You should acknowledge that you trust or believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the Savior. You can also share the personal experience of your life and describe how faith in Jesus Christ helps you face the most difficult times in your life. You can also add some examples to show how your life changed or what you have learned since you believed in God.

5.  Ways to Express Faith

Different ways are used to express faith, however writing a faith statement for confirmation should make you feel comfortable because it’s something very personal that no other person can write about. Our faith is demonstrated each time we act in admiration of God. Our everyday actions should be motivated by what we read in His Word. It might simply be how we treat people and conduct ourselves in general. When we follow God’s Word, we demonstrate our faith in Him.

The biography helps us to understand an individual’s life starting from birth, educational background, experiences, and achievements, but you should know about the importance of biographies as it shows how they overcome challenges in life. For instance, if an artist wants to make an impact on other people’s beliefs so he writes about his own beliefs.

6.  Create a Draft of the Statement

If you’re writing a faith statement for the first time, it can be challenging to write it appropriately, but you can receive help from church leaders as most have experience in writing. You can also discuss your concerns and hurdles you face in writing to the church leaders. These conversations are valuable, just like writing. The faith statement is a very personal one. You cannot copy the statement of others, but you can use them as an example or as a guideline to get inspiration. You just need to keep practicing writing until your draft is the final statement.

You can seek help from the Holy Spirit as well. Always remember that the Holy Spirit is there to help you in hard times. You can fearlessly and confidently call on Him when you are having difficulties, and He will give you the motivation you need to complete whatever task is required.

Writing a faith statement about confirmation for the first time might seem challenging for many people, but you just need to be honest and creative while you’re writing it. Follow the suggestions mentioned above for the vital points when you begin your statement of faith for confirmation.

Author’s Bio: Emily Johnson is a renowned religious blogger and a member of a perfect essay writing team. She has written many blogs regarding religion and spirituality for faith-based magazines and even how to write your own essay . Apart from writing, she loves traveling and playing badminton.

Here is some related reading for you: Saved, Surrendered and Serving – A Personal Testimony

Resource – Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version ® (ESV ® ), Crossway Bibles. (2007). ESV: Study Bible: English standard version. Wheaton, Ill: Crossway Bibles. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Tagged as: Confirmation , Statement for Confirmation , Statement of Faith , Writing a Statement of Faith

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