Our core values are the priorities derived from how Jesus led His ministry in the New Testament.
As Christians, we are free from the bonds of this world, however we are still pulled in various directions by the culture with which we are constantly surrounded. In order to fulfill our mission we must prioritize what is good and honorable to God.
Biblically-driven Teaching
Everything Canaan teaches and does must be based on the Word of God. Our beliefs, policies, strategies, vision, relationships and ministries must be rooted in God’s Word despite any external pressures to compromise.
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,” – 2 Timothy 3:16
Authentic Worship
God is looking for followers who worship Him in spirit and in truth—with mind and emotions. God—not man—is the focus and center of worship. We are to respond to Him in relationship by expressing our love, praise, honor, and adoration through worship—not just on Sunday but every day.
“God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” The woman said to him, “I know that Messiah is coming (he who is called Christ). When he comes, he will tell us all things.” – John 4:24-25
Spirit-led Prayer
It is critical that we seek God first before we do anything else. We are here to serve Him and follow Him. As the Spirit leads us in prayer, we humbly ask for God’s direction, provision and protection as we seek to glorify Him and make disciples of the nations.
“praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints,” – Ephesians 6:18
SHAPE-based Ministry
We value that God creates everyone with specific design. We are saved by grace to accomplish works that God has planned for each of us. We hold that our purpose and satisfaction in Christ are best lived out as we serve and accomplish those works He created us to do.
“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” – Ephesians 2:8-10
Relational Evangelism
More than 90% of believers responded to the Gospel when they heard it from someone they already knew. We value the importance of building genuine relationships through which come powerful opportunities to have Gospel conversations.
“One of the two who heard John speak and followed Jesus was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. He first found his own brother Simon and said to him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ (which means Christ).” – John 1:40-41
Intentional Discipleship
Sadly, most discipleship these days happens accidentally. Yet Scripture commands us to be purposeful with discipleship. That means we have a plan on how to reach the unsaved and grow them to maturity. Mature believers continue the legacy by discipling others.
“and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.” – 2 Timothy 2:2
Devoted Fellowship
Membership matters. We are the body of Christ which means we are deeply committed to loving and serving one another. There are over 30 “one anothers” in the New Testament that move us to unity, love, humility and encouragement.
“For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” – Romans 12:4-18