The words “conservative” and “liberal” are thrown around a lot in both political and religious contexts, and sometimes their meanings can be rather vague. So, what exactly do we mean when we say that we “maintain a conservative approach to the Scriptures”?

Back in the early days of our country’s history, as men and women from various religious groups decided to lay aside all denominational creeds, doctrines and loyalties, and restore in modern times the simple New Testament pattern of Christianity, a sort of “battle cry” emerged which we feel is a pretty good description of what it means to maintain a conservative approach to the Scriptures.

We speak where the Bible speaks, and remain silent where the Bible is silent.

This is not a statement of creed, but actually a refutation of all man-made creeds and doctrines. It is a fundamental philosophy which simply looks to the New Testament as the only source of doctrine and creed.

And that is exactly what we mean when we talk about being conservative in our approach to the Scriptures. We look to the Bible as our only authority, and as the supreme authority, in all matters pertaining to the doctrine and practices of the church. Do we accomplish this perfectly? Certainly not! We are imperfect human beings who frequently make mistakes. But God’s word is perfect, and our goal is to live and to worship according to the simple principles and the specific instructions outlined in His perfect word.

THAT is what “conservative” means to us.