Our Values

We are committed to living out the values of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Our mission: A diverse community helping people far from God find and follow Jesus


Diversity

We value being a multi-generational, multi-ethnic body of believers that welcomes everyone regardless of their past, politics, or preferences.


People

We value people who are far from God. They are not a problem to solve; they are loved by their creator, and we will love them closer to Jesus.


Bible Centrality

The Bible is the foundation of everything we are, do, and hope to become.


Radical Generosity

We have an abundance mindset, so we value surprising people with our generosity and give even when it hurts.


Winsome

We follow the example of Jesus and will be authentic and not stuffy. We will be warm and welcoming, not cold and distant. We will be relaxed and not overly formal.


Taking Chances

We take chances on people early in their faith journey, even though it can be messy.


Next Generation

We are biased toward developing younger leaders, even if they make more mistakes.

Our Beliefs

We invite you to explore our beliefs and join us in our pursuit of living out our faith in boldness and passion.

  • God

    There is one, and only one, living and true God, existing in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God is just, powerful, good, and holy. God is infinite in love. Through love, God creates, sustains, suffers, judges, rescues, liberates, redeems, reconciles, and reigns.

    (Genesis 1:1, 26-27; Psalm 90:2, John 3:16; 2 Corinthians 13:14)

  • Jesus

    God became human in Jesus. Jesus was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to hell, and on the third day He rose again. He ascended into heaven and will come again to judge the living and the dead. The death and resurrection of Jesus offers redemption for humanity and the world. (Isaiah 9:6; Matthew 1:22-23; John 1:1–5, 14:10–30; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4; Hebrews 4:14-16; Titus 2:13)

  • The Bible

    The Bible was written under the divine inspiration of the Holy Spirit. It is reliable and authoritative. It is the primary authority for all Christian faith and practice.

    (Psalm 119:105, 160; Proverbs 30:5; 2 Timothy 3:16)

  • People

    All people are made in God’s image, and like God, have the capacity to love, to care, to communicate, and to create. Every person of every race, nationality, and gender possesses complete and equal dignity and as such is worthy of respect and love.


    All people have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory. As a result, people are incapable of regaining a right relationship with God through their own efforts.

    (Genesis 1:27; Psalm 8:3-6; Isaiah 53:6a; Romans 3:23)

  • Salvation

    Jesus, being fully God and fully human, was born, lived, died, and rose again. It is only through Jesus that humanity can find complete forgiveness, reconciliation, and wholeness. Anyone who accepts the free gift of salvation made possible through Jesus is welcome into the Kingdom of Heaven. Eternal life begins the moment one receives Jesus Christ into his or her life by faith.

    (John 1:12, 14:6; Romans 5:1, 6:23; Galatians 3:26-28; Ephesians 2:8-10; Titus 3:5-7)

  • The Church

    The Church is the body of Christ, an extension of Christ’s life and ministry in the world today. It includes the redeemed of all ages, races, genders, and nations. The purpose of the church is to glorify God by loving him and by making him known by being a blessing to others. Jesus prayed for unity in the Church, and our Christian unity in love gives evidence of God to every generation. (Matthew 28: 18-20; John 13:34-35; Acts 1:8, 2:41-42, 47; Ephesians 1:22-23, 2:19-22; Revelation 21:1-7)

FAQs

See below to learn more about What to Expect, Where to Park, Finding Your Way Around, and Childcare.

  • What to Expect

    When you visit, you’ll find a warm and diverse community united by our love for Jesus and our commitment to serving others. We’re careful not to put guests on the spot—we want you to feel at home from the moment you arrive.


    We’d love to meet you, listen to your story, and help you discover how God has gifted you. You’re invited to become part of our caring and active church family.

  • Where to Park

    First Baptist Church Morganton is located near the downtown area on historic West Union Street. Parking is available in two main lots (East and West) and two smaller paved areas behind the church. Handicapped spaces are provided in the two main lots.

  • Finding Your Way Around

    Worship Service: Greeters and ushers in the narthex of the sanctuary will welcome you to the worship service. Following worship the ministers would love to meet you and talk with you about the church and church family.

  • Childcare

    For guests with preschool children, First Baptist provides a nursery where children are well cared for by trained caregivers. Security check-in and pager systems are used.