LIFE CHANGING GOSPEL
At the heart of our vision is the belief that a relationship with Jesus Christ transforms our lives at the deepest levels. Becoming a Christian is more than simply changing our beliefs, but about coming alive to God—what the Bible describes as having eternal life. As we enter into this new life with Jesus, we discover true living as God intended—a life filled with peace, joy, and purpose. As Jesus declared, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him” (John 7:37-38). Our vision is to grow together as a community of believers into the reality of this overflowing life of abundance described by Jesus.
LIFE-SHARING COMMUNITY
At the core of God’s salvation plan is the creation of the Church: The people of God gathered together as a life-sharing community. At ICC we desire to create a safe place of acceptance and love where our worth is not determined by our performance, but by the common grace that we’ve all received through Jesus Christ. As a community gathered by grace, we strive to learn how to honestly share our struggles with one another, as well as carrying one another’s burdens. Our vision to also equip and empower each member to discover his or her unique talents and spiritual gifts, using them to serve the community. These service opportunities not only benefit others, but also provide a growth opportunity for those who are serving.
LIFE-GIVING MISSION
Jesus commands us to make disciples of all nations. Thus, whether it is reaching out to our local community or supporting mission work on the other side of the world, our mission is rooted in the task of disciple-making—leading others to a life-giving relationship with Jesus and teaching them what it means to means to follow him. As his followers, Christ calls his Church to demonstrate his love and mercy to others who don’t know him. We obey this command not only by telling others about Jesus, but also by embodying his love through our own acts of kindness and mercy. Our vision is to participate in spreading the gospel through local outreach ministries and church planting in the greater Chicago area as well as through support of cross-cultural mission work both within and beyond the borders of the United States.