Statement of Beliefs*
Introductory Statement:
As a Christian institution, ICRTS affirms what are generally recognized as historically orthodox Christian beliefs. As an independent, non-denominational entity, we adhere to the essential doctrines of the Christian faith and do not promote any specific secondary, tertiary, or denominational distinctives.
The belief statements outlined below reflect the convictions of ICRTS as an organization. They do not necessarily represent the views of our patrons, research partners, or others with whom we collaborate.
While ICRTS values collaboration with individuals from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds, all of our research, resources, and materials are developed through the lens of a Christian worldview.
(See also "Values" on our general "About" page)
God:
God is the uncreated, transcendent, and unique being who created all that exists. He is one in essence and triune in nature, eternally existing as three co-equal and co-eternal persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
The Father:
The Father is God—the first person of the Trinity—who has eternally existed within the Godhead alongside the Son and the Holy Spirit. He is the creator of all things, working in unity with the Son and the Spirit.
Jesus Christ (The Son):
Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, is the second person of the Trinity. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary, taking on human nature while remaining fully divine. In Jesus, the fullness of deity and humanity uniquely co-exist—He is fully God and fully man. He lived a sinless life and became the atoning sacrifice for the sins of humanity. Jesus was crucified, died, and rose bodily from the dead. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
The Holy Spirit:
The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity, fully God and eternally existent with the Father and the Son. He is at work in the world today, convicting the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. The Spirit brings sinners to repentance, regenerates those who believe, indwells every believer, and empowers them to live holy lives that glorify God.
The Bible:
The Bible is the infallible, inspired, and authoritative Word of God. Written by human authors under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, it is without error in all that it affirms and is the final authority in matters of faith and practice.
Humanity:
Human beings were created by God in His image, male and female. Through Adam’s disobedience, humanity fell into sin and now exists in a state of separation from God. As a result, every person is in need of salvation from both sin and its consequence—death.
Marriage:
Biblical marriage is defined as the covenantal union between one biological male and one biological female. This union is solemnized through mutual vows under civic and/or religious oversight and is designed to reflect the covenant relationship between Christ and His Church.
Human Sexuality:
Human sexuality is a gift from God and is to be expressed only within the bounds of biblical marriage.
Salvation:
Salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in Jesus Christ alone. It is a gift from God, not earned by human effort, and is made possible by the atoning death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The Church:
The church is an assembly of believers in Christ; it is Christ's body and bride. It exists as God’s instrument in the world, continuing the redemptive work of Christ until His return.
The Eschaton (The End Times):
ICRTS does not promote any single eschatological view (e.g., Premillennialism, Postmillennialism, Amillennialism, etc.). However, we affirm the biblical truth that Christ will return bodily and gloriously to bring the fullness of God’s Kingdom.
*NOTE: This statement of faith may be amended at any time in order to more clearly articulate and/or more accurately reflect the historical Christian faith.