We are currently looking for interns who can start in the new year. Learn more here.
What we believe
Christian Encounter is a biblically-based church with an integrated residential youth program. As part of the global Body of Christ, we are in agreement with the World Evangelical Alliance’s Statement of Faith.
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Additionally, our Board of Directors has crafted the following statement, which is the foundation ​and focus of our work: ​
Holy Scripture
We believe that all Scripture (the 66 book canon) is given by the inspiration of God. Therefore, all scripture is true and trustworthy, and is a testimony to Christ. As such it stands as the final authority of policy and practice of Christian Encounter Ranch (CER) and its members. (II Timothy 3:16-17; II Peter 1:20-21; Matthew 5:17-18; John 10:35)
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Nature of God
We believe that God eternally exists in three persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, who are one God deserving precisely the same homage, confidence and obedience. God, the self-existent, everlasting, holy, righteous, loving, Author and Creator of life, is actively involved in the world redeeming, transforming, regenerating and reconciling mankind to Himself. Accordingly, the Purpose of CER (as expressed in article 2.1 of the By-Laws) is designed to participate in that process of reconciliation. (Exodus 15:18; Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19; John 4:24; 10:30; Acts 2:47; 17:24ff; 1 Corinthians 1:18; 2 Corinthians 3:18; 5:16-21; 1 Peter 1:5)
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The Created Nature of Man
We believe that man was created in the image and likeness of God. Sin, entering the world by Adam’s disobedience, is a spiritual pathogen that has infected all humanity and alienated humankind from God. Hence, the need for reconciliation and salvation becomes apparent. This salvation comes as God’s gift of grace, apart from any good works or human merit, and can be received by faith alone, through Christ alone. For salvation to be in effect for anyone it must be appropriated by that person through faith and obedience. (Genesis 1:26-31; 9:6; Mark 16:16; John 1:12; 3:14-17, 36; 11:25-26; Acts 4:12; 13:38, 39; Romans 3:23; 5:1, 12; Ephesians 2:8,9; 1 John 2:2)
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The Church
We believe the church is composed of all races, colors, and nations of those who profess Jesus as God the Son. It is the body and bride of Christ, formed by the Holy Spirit, existing in two aspects, universal and local. In both aspects, the Church exists to glorify God through worship and discipleship as elements of the ministry of reconciliation. (Acts 2:42; I Corinthians 12:12-27; II Corinthians 5:16-21; Ephesians 1:22-23; 5:25-30; Hebrews 10:24-25; I Peter 2:9; Revelation 7:9, 10)