First Baptist Church is a mid-size church located in the town of Harlan, Iowa. We are a theologically conservative, non-denominational church with a strong history of youth ministry and supporting missions. Unique qualities of our church include generosity, a thirst for biblical teaching, and a truly multi-generational (4 generations) congregation.
Our Core Values
Learning Biblically
We will teach, learn, and live the Bible.
All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (II Timothy 3: 16-17)
Praying Fervently
We will be devoted to prayer.
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. (Ephesians 6:18)
Representing Faithfully
We will be ambassadors of Christ in all that we are and do.
All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. (II Corinthians 5:18-20)
Loving Genuinely
We will be committed to one another as brothers and sisters in Christ.
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. (Romans 12:9-10)
Leading Wisely
We will live boldly and courageously as followers of Christ.
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives… (Titus 2:11-12)
Strengthening Family
We will follow the Biblical pattern of servant leadership.
Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. (IITimothy 2:15)
Living Out Our Mission
To live out our mission, we must be accountable and know that we are growing. While this is about a personal relationship with God, the Bible gives us clues to know that we are becoming more Christ-sufficient. The 9 Marks are a way to help each of us grow in our walk with Christ.