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Salvation is God's free gift to us, but we must accept it.

We believe that we are made by God and for God. In every person, there exists a longing for the divine that can only be filled by a real relationship with God through Jesus. Life, at its best, is experienced when we align ourselves under God's authority. Only then can we experience the greatest joys and the most abundant life imaginable.
Why do I need to be saved?
We can never make up for sin by self-improvement or good works. No religion, church, or organization you belong to can save you. Only by trusting in Jesus Christ as God's offer of forgiveness can anyone be saved from sin's penalty. When we turn from our self-ruled life and turn to Jesus in faith we are saved. Eternal life begins the moment one receives Jesus Christ into his life by faith.

How am I saved?

The Bible gives the promise in Romans 10:9-10 "If you declare with your mouth 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved." Believing is more than a thought, but a full life surrender. Take time to consider these verses:

Romans 6:23
Ephesians 2:8-9
John 14:6
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Baptism is an outward picture of an inward work.

Baptism is the perfect illustration of what Christ has done for all sinners through his death, burial, and resurrection. It is not an act resulting in salvation, but rather one of appreciation to God for His saving grace. As believers, it is our public profession of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Why should I be baptized?

We are encouraged to be baptized by the example of Christ. Jesus began his public ministry with baptism. Throughout the New Testament, baptism was the first response for believers. In Romans 6:4-5, the Scripture declares the importance of baptism for every believer. Thus, our motive in baptism is obedience to Christ.

How can I experience believer's baptism?

Now that you have trusted Christ as your Savior, baptism is the next step of Christian obedience. It is the first public step in identification with Christ. A proper understanding of baptism is vital: There is no saving power in baptism- salvation is by grace alone. Baptism should always follow salvation, never precede it. Our word "baptize" is an adaptation of the Greek word "baptizo," which translates to "immerse" or "submerge." Scripture tells us that Jesus came up out of the water when He was baptized.

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It's great to be part of a family.

Scripture teaches us that the church is the bride of Christ. Jesus loves the church. He loves those who are part of the family of God. To be a follower of Jesus, we must be obedient to being part of a church family.
Why is church membership important?

Church membership is important for several reasons:
  • It is a public commitment to a local body of believers. (Acts 2:41)
  • It identifies the team members that are ready to do the work of the church. (Romans 12:4-6)
  • It offers a support system for believers who are weak or hurting. (1 Corinthians 12:24-26)
  • It enables believers to use their spiritual gifts alongside other believers to grow the church. (1 Peter 4:10)
  • It grants the privilege of providing ministry and leadership to the local church body. (Acts 6:1-6)
  • It establishes a measure of responsibility and accountability for beliefs and behavior. (Romans 12:1-2)
How can I become a member of Houston River?

At Houston River, we believe that if you are saved and have been obedient in taking your next step of believer's baptism, then you are able to be a member here. This goes for those coming from other churches or those who are saved here. If you want to follow through with membership, simply click the "Take My Next Step" button and select that you want to become a member.
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We were created to live in community rather than isolation.

Living in community affords us the opportunity to fully experience God through close relationships as we meet together and pray together, as we encourage and help one another, and as we study and live out God's word together.

Why do I need community?

Doing life together is essential to growing to know Jesus better and becoming more like Him. Showing up to a Sunday gathering is great, but it is our desire to see everyone grow deeper in a relationship with God and become part of a genuine Christian community by participating in a small group. Here at Houston River, our small groups are called life groups.

How do I join a life group?

All our groups are accepting new members! We have groups for adults, students, and children. We would love to help you find your community. Click the "Take My Next Step" button and select that you want to get involved in a life group. A follow-up email will be sent to you.

We believe life transformation takes place best in small-group communities. The early church met as a large group for worship and in small groups for community. From classrooms to living rooms, we feel you can find a place to thrive. We are committed to helping you find a place of community no matter what stage of life you find yourself in.
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Leave a legacy of service by making an impact through our church on our community.

God's plan for this world involves those who dwell in relationship with Him and commit their lives to living out their faith. The book of James calls believers to put action to their faith. We are not supposed to be pew sitters only. The Christian life invokes active serving for the Gospel.
What does it mean to serve?

Any and all can serve, but the way we serve might look different from the next person. God designed you to have unique traits so that you can accomplish His will for your life.

Those traits include:
  • Your spiritual gifts
  • Your passions
  • Your relational style
  • Your vocational skills
  • Your experiences in life
Serving should not be fear-inducing, but joy-giving. 
How can I serve?

At Houston River, we offer serve opportunities weekly, monthly, and seasonally. If you want to get a list of these opportunities, simply click the "Take My Next Step" button and select that you want to serve.