WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY
When we moved here from South Carolina about 5 years ago, I was lost and didn’t have any friends. When I visited VRSM and was welcomed with a warm smile, I felt like I had found a second home. Christ has really changed my life through the meaningful discussions and wonderful community I have experienced at VRSM. It truly is a life-changing group!
I love VRSM because everyone there loves one another like family. The whole ministry is very inclusive and all the leaders are easy to talk to in times of struggle and are there to support you when you succeed. I have made some of my best friends through the ministry and also been able to watch each other grow in Christ and grow together, which has been one of my favorite things since joining the ministry!
TREY B.
TAYLOR I.
VRSM has helped me grow spiritually by showing me what it’s like to love Jesus and love others, but also how to put that into practice by serving the community and laughing together. My relationship with Jesus would not be as strong as it is today without VRSM and the many people and leaders who have invested in me.
VRSM has shown me the purpose and joy found in having Godly community. Being able to walk alongside such a great group of people has made it easier to be bold and grow in my faith. The people here are so special and their love for the Lord is evident by how they love others and invite them into our student ministry. VRSM has taught me how to pursue a deeper faith and seek Christ above all other things.
MAYA D.
HALEY H.
A WORD FROM THE PASTOR
LO QUE CREEMOS
ADDITIONAL TOPICS
Today’s culture raises many questions and challenges to which churches are called to respond with both grace and truth. We acknowledge that people of faith who deeply value Scripture hold different beliefs around certain topics. Through careful study, persistent prayer, and the trustworthy leadership of the Holy Spirit, VRBC has written the following statements that explain the theology we teach and ask our leaders to support on these topics.
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Whether or not you agree with these statements or are even just beginning to explore who God is, you are welcome at VRBC! Our desire is to provide a sacred space where all can learn together, be drawn closer to God, and experience transformation to be like Jesus. We aren’t perfect, but we seek to treat all people with dignity and respect just as Jesus does.
WOMEN IN MINISTRY
We believe that Scripture teaches that although there are distinct differences between the sexes, men and women are equally gifted and empowered to lead in the church. As the Bible contains numerous examples of women serving in a variety of pastoral, preaching, and leadership roles, we affirm and encourage women to use the gifts God has given women to lead, including in roles such as pastors, teachers, church council members, deacons, etc.
Matthew 28:5-7; Acts 2:17-18, 18:26; Romans 16:1-7; Galatians 3:28
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STEWARDSHIP
God is the source of all blessings, and all that we have and all that we are we owe to him. Christians are called to be wise stewards of our time, talents, and material possessions, recognizing that they have been entrusted to us to use for the glory of God and the good of others. According to the Scriptures, Christians should contribute from their resources cheerfully, regularly, proportionately, and generously for the advancement of the Savior’s cause on earth.
Genesis 1:28; Leviticus 23:22; Proverbs 3:9-10; Malachi 3:10; Luke 12:48b; Romans 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 4:2, 16:1-2; 2 Corinthians 9:6-7; Colossians 3:17; 1 Timothy 6:17-19; James 1:17; 1 Peter 4:10
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POLITICS
As followers of Jesus, we recognize that although we live in the United States, our true citizenship is in the Kingdom of God. We are called to pray for and submit to our leaders, but our ultimate allegiance is to Christ alone. We are grateful for the wonderful blessing of living in this nation, but our ultimate hope is found in our Savior, not our government.
At VRBC, we will not align ourselves with any particular politician or party. Instead, we will exalt Jesus, celebrate the gospel, and teach God’s Word. At times, this may mean speaking to current events, including political topics, but we will always do this through a biblical lens rather than a political or partisan one.
Additionally, we will welcome all people, regardless of political affiliation, to follow Jesus together with us, and we will promote a spirit of humility, openness, and unity as we discuss challenging topics.
Psalm 146:3; Matthew 6:33; John 18:36; Romans 13:1; Philippians 3:20; Colossians 3:1-2, 4:6; 1 Timothy 2:1-2
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SEXUALITY
All people are called to steward their sexuality in a God-honoring way by entering into Christian marriage (a lifelong covenant between one man and one woman) or remaining unmarried and celibate (and experiencing intimate family in the Body of Christ). While marriage and sex are wonderful gifts from God, they are not essential qualities of an abundant life, and people can live full and purpose-filled lives in Christ regardless of whether or not they marry.
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As a result of the Fall, all people experience corruption in their sexuality. This is the source of all sexual desires outside of marriage. Sexual temptation does not diminish a person’s value in God’s eyes or his love for them. However, God’s good plan is for all sexual activity to be reserved for marriage.
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Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:4-6; Romans 1:18-27; 1 Corinthians 6:18-20, 7:32-35; Ephesians 4:22-23, 5:3; Hebrews 13:4