What we Believe

The Church of Christ is a fellowship of autonomous Christian congregations here in Finland. We believe in the Bible as the sole authority for our instructions and direction to worship God.

1. The Bible as the Sole Authority

We adhere strictly to the principle of sola scriptura (scripture alone). A famous historical slogan often used is: "Speak where the Bible speaks, and remain silent where the Bible is silent."

The New Testament Priority: The Old Testament is inspired and historically accurate, but its laws (like tithing or Sabbath-keeping) are not binding under the New Covenant. The New Testament serves as our literal blueprint for church structure, worship, and salvation.

No Human Creeds: We reject formal catechisms, creeds, or denominational manuals, asserting that the Bible is clear enough on its own.

2. The Necessity of Baptism for Salvation

Baptism is an essential step in obtaining the forgiveness of sins.

  • We practice baptism exclusively by full immersion in water (Acts 8:36-39).
  • We reject infant baptism, believing a person must first be old enough to hear the gospel, believe, repent, and confess their faith before being baptized (Rom 10:9-10).

3. A Cappella Worship (No Instruments)

Here, you will find a complete absence of musical instruments (pianos, drums, guitars). Worship consists entirely of a cappella singing.

This is not just a preference; it is a doctrinal stance. Because the New Testament commands believers to sing and make melody in their hearts but never explicitly mentions early Christians using musical instruments (Eph 5:19).

4. Weekly Communion

Following what we see as the pattern of the early apostolic church, congregations partake of the Lord's Supper (Communion) every single Sunday (Acts 20:7), rather than monthly or quarterly. It is viewed as the central focus of the Sunday assembly.

5. Congregational Autonomy

Each individual congregation is completely independent and self-governed.

Locally, churches are governed by a plurality of biblically qualified male elders who oversee spiritual matters, alongside deacons who manage physical and benevolent needs (Titus 1:5, 1 Tim 1:1-12).