What We Believe

Edinburgh Church of the Nazarene

At Edinburgh Church of the Nazarene, we are a Christian people rooted in the historic Christian faith and the Wesleyan-Holiness tradition. We believe that God loves all people, offers forgiveness freely through Jesus Christ, and invites every believer into a transformed life filled with His Holy Spirit.

The Triune God

We believe in one eternally existent, infinite God—Creator, Preserver, and Sovereign Ruler of the universe. He has revealed Himself as Triune: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—three distinct persons, equal in power, holiness, and eternity, united in one essential being and divine love.

Genesis 1:1; Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14

Jesus Christ

We believe in Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, who is truly God and truly man. Conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary, Jesus lived a sinless life, died on the cross as a complete and substitutionary atonement for the sins of the world, rose bodily from the grave, ascended into heaven, and continually intercedes on our behalf until He returns in glory.

John 1:1–14; Philippians 2:5–11; 1 Corinthians 15:3–4; Hebrews 7:25

The Holy Spirit

We believe in the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity, who is ever-present and active in the world and church. He convicts hearts of sin, regenerates those who repent, guides believers into all truth, comforts the hurting, and empowers the body of Christ for witness and service.

John 14:16–17; John 16:7–13; Romans 8:14–16; Galatians 5:22–25

The Holy Scriptures

We believe the 66 books of the Old and New Testaments are given by divine inspiration, faithfully revealing the will of God concerning us. They uniquely contain all truth necessary for faith and Christian living, serving as our supreme standard and authority in all matters of life and doctrine.

Psalm 119:105; 2 Timothy 3:15–17; 2 Peter 1:20–21

Grace and Salvation

We believe all people are created in the image of God but have fallen into sin, leaving humanity unable to save itself. In His love, God extends prevenient grace to every person, making it possible for all to respond freely to His invitation. When we turn to God in genuine repentance and place our trust in Jesus Christ, we are forgiven, justified, and adopted as His children.

Romans 3:23; Romans 5:1–2; Ephesians 2:8–9; Titus 3:4–7

Entire Sanctification

We believe that following new birth, God calls every believer to a deeper surrender and dedication. Through the baptism with the Holy Spirit, God cleanses the heart from the dominion of sin and fills us with perfect love for God and our neighbors. This work—both a decisive act of faith and a lifelong journey of growth—empowers us to live faithfully and witness boldly in the world.

Leviticus 20:7–8; 1 Thessalonians 5:23–24; Romans 12:1–2; 1 John 4:17–18

The Church and the Sacraments

We believe the Church is the living body of Christ, composed of all who put their trust in Him. Called to worship, nurture, and mission, the church gathers around the Word and two central sacraments instituted by Christ:

Baptism: A sacred sign and seal of the new covenant, signifying acceptance of the benefits of Christ's atonement. We practice believer’s and infant baptism by sprinkling, pouring, or immersion according to individual conviction.

The Lord’s Supper (Holy Communion): A sacrament of remembrance and fellowship where Christ meets us through grace. Our communion table is open to all who love the Lord and seek to walk in fellowship with Him.

Matthew 26:26–29; Matthew 28:19–20; Acts 2:42–47; 1 Corinthians 11:23–26

Christ’s Return and Hope

We believe in the literal, personal return of Jesus Christ, the resurrection of the dead, and the final judgment. Those who abide in Christ will live forever in His glorious presence, while those who persistently reject Him face eternal separation from God. This blessed hope anchors our lives and fuels our compassion for the world today.

John 14:1–3; Acts 1:11; 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17; Revelation 21:1–4