Our Genetic Code (what defines us)
At a Vineyard pastors conference in September 1992, founder John Wimber taught on 10 areas of ministry that were essential to any Vineyard church. He called these areas the Vineyard Genetic Code because they are the common denominators that identify us as a family. A Vineyard experience typically includes:
1. Clear, accurate, Biblical teaching
It doesn't matter if your teaching starts with the bible and applies it to life, or starts with life's situations and brings the bible to it...just be biblical. The bible isn't there to back up our theories; it is there to build our life upon.
2. Contemporary worship in the freedom of the Holy Spirit
Worship is always a God-centred activity. How we do it is not the central issue, but that we do it for Him and are focussed on Him, is essential.
3. The gifts of the Holy Spirit in operation
Our sovereign God wants to move in our midst in sovereign ways. Let's always make room for God to come and make manifest His gifts. Let's also ensure that everyone gets to play in this and that it is not just happening up on the platform with the "big guys" doing the stuff.
4. An active small group ministry
The small group meeting within the church adds a dimension to discipleship in the local church that is indispensable. The opportunity to share in a smaller and safer setting, to experiment with spiritual gifts and other ministry expressions, to ask your questions, etc. are more possible at this level than at a congregational level.
5. Ministry to the poor, widows, orphans and those who are broken
Compassion/welfare is such an integral part of our identity. It should always be there and be in action.
6. Physical healing with emphasis on signs and wonders as seen in the book of Acts
We don't have to wait for a move of God to see healing happen. It's part and parcel of Kingdom life. Giving people regular opportunity to pray for others and to be prayed for.
7. A commitment to missions - church planting at home and world missions abroad
Involvement in local and overseas mission.
8. Unity within the whole body of Christ; a relationship with other local churches
Unity is more than a passive agreement, it is active. Involvement in a regular meeting of local ministers, actively blessing and honouring other churches.
9. Evangelistic outreach
The gospel command is clear...Go! Let's not just be another church that moves the deck chairs (existing Christians) around but is passionate in recruiting others for Heaven!
10. Equipping the saints in areas such as discipleship, ministry, serving, giving, finances, family, etc.
We need to give away what we've got. The work of ministry is for all, and empowered and informed Christian living is every Christian's birthright.
More Our Values (next page)