As a counselor at a camp for the Church of the Nazarene, it is the expectation that you, as a counselor, agree with the following positions that we, as a church, believe and follow in accordance to the Manual of the Church of the Nazarene. As a counselor, you will very likely be challenged by teens on what the Bible and/or the Church has to say on these issues. If you disagree with any of these positions, please submit an explanation as to why you disagree.
The Authority of the Bible
We believe that the Bible is the Word of God, divinely inspired and inerrant in its form. The Bible was written by men who were under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and the opinions we hold are founded in Scripture. We believe that the Bible trumps the viewpoints and arguments that the world has to offer on any issue. If the Bible declares something to be right or wrong, our belief is that those things are still right or wrong today.
B. Use of Tobacco, Alcohol, and Drugs
We take a conservative stance on these issues, and we firmly belief that abstinence is the best practice in regards to these items. As a denomination, we believe that tobacco, alcohol, and drugs are not only harmful to the individual, but are a detriment to our society, and are contributions to the moral decay around us. By abstaining from these products and behaviors, we believe that a follower of Christ is better equipped to refrain from falling into sinful behavior in this area.
C. Premarital / Extramarital Sex, Homosexuality, and Transgender Behaviors
We believe in purity, and we encourage people to save themselves for marriage. No sexual sin is greater than the other, but sexual sin is still one that carries hefty consequences. In regards to homosexuality, we hold the position that this behavior is a choice, and it is sinful. None of these sexual behaviors are to be celebrated or accepted, but the individuals who are trapped in these practices need to be delivered through the power of the blood of Jesus Christ! We do not restrict anyone from being a part of our church, yet we do not compromise our position on these issues.
D. The ONLY Way
We believe that faith in Jesus Christ is the ONLY way to Heaven. If one confesses that they are a sinner, will repent of their sins, and submit their life to the Lordship of Jesus Christ, then they are a born again Christian! Just being a good person and doing good works is not enough. There must be a relationship with Jesus Christ, and we also believe that such a conversion will bring about transformation in the heart, mind, and lifestyle of a believer.
TEAMWORK AGREEMENT
Together Everyone Achieves More. Yes, it is very cheesy, but true. We are not doing an event, but we are creating an environment called Teen Camp. We need to all be on the same page. A team works together and communicates and adjusts fo the greater good. Let’s work together.
We are not Lone-Rangers
This is a great mantra for the week, “I will not 'do my own thing'”. Like Christ, I will submit to the leadership that God has put in place and keep a united front. Please, be willing to lend a hand where needed.
We are Encouragers
Remember, your words have power. Use them wisely as we speak to one another and to our campers. While we may enjoy sarcasm, love is a better approach.
We are Proactive
If you see a situation that needs intervention, say a quick prayer and do something about it. Please, don’t assume someone else will take care of it. This is anything from clothing, to relationships, to dangerous things kids might do. Use your head and your heart and do something!
We are Spiritual
We are spiritual beings. We will all be attacked by the enemy as we seek to have God do awesome things in the lives of these students. We must prepare for battle before we arrive and especially while we are here. If we operate out of the flesh, we will not see the life-change that could happen. Stay connected to Jesus and one another. I expect that we, with the Holy Spirit, will be taking back ground that the enemy has occupied during camp. Be ready!
I wholeheartedly agree with the statements in the Belief agreement, and I am willing to confirm these beliefs. I also will live and operate within the Teamwork Agreement to help create an atmosphere that fosters growth and life change in our campers.