If you would like to request prayer or support, you can reach out to one of our pastors directly. They are available to listen, offer guidance, and pray with you. To make a request, you can contact the church office by phone or email, or speak with a pastor before or after one of our services. 

Pastor Paul Thompson                                Pastor John Martinez
paul@esbctwinfalls.com                            john@esbctwinfalls.com
208-410-2529                                               208-410-1357

If you need immediate assistance of a spiritual nature, such as guidance or prayer, please speak with one of our pastors as soon as possible. They are available to offer support and help with spiritual matters.

For urgent physical needs or practical assistance, please reach out to one of our deacons. They are here to assist with various practical concerns and can help connect you with resources or support.

If you’re unsure whom to contact, feel free to approach any church member, and they will direct you to the appropriate person for your needs.

Pastor Paul Thompson                                Pastor John Martinez
paul@esbctwinfalls.com                            john@esbctwinfalls.com
208-410-2529                                               208-410-1357

At our church, being family-integrated means we emphasize the importance of keeping families together during worship and other church activities. Instead of separating children into age-specific groups, we encourage families to participate in church services and programs as a unit. This approach fosters strong family bonds, allows parents to be more directly involved in their children’s spiritual growth, and helps create a supportive community where all ages can learn and grow together. We believe that this integrated approach helps to cultivate a more cohesive and spiritually nurturing environment for everyone.

We do not have a staffed nursery or dedicated childcare services during our services. However, we do provide a cry room, nursing room, and changing room for families with young children. These spaces are designed to offer a comfortable and private area where you can attend to your child’s needs while still being able to participate in the service. We encourage families to bring their children to the main service and enjoy worship together as part of our family-integrated approach.

We do not have a dedicated youth ministry with separate programs or services. Instead, we encourage young people of all ages to participate in the main church services alongside the rest of the congregation. Our family-integrated approach means that youth are actively involved in the worship experience, and we believe this fosters a sense of community and spiritual growth for all ages. We value their presence and contribution as part of our church family.

We recognize the importance of doctrinal purity and adherence to Biblical truth. While there are varying degrees of purity among churches, we acknowledge that the universal body of Christ includes all Trinitarian churches that uphold the core doctrines of the Christian faith.

We respect and value other Christian denominations that confess the doctrine of the Trinity and affirm the central tenets of the Gospel. We believe that while significant differences in practice and theology may exist, those who adhere to these foundational beliefs are part of the broader body of Christ.

However, we do not recognize non-Trinitarian groups as part of Christendom. Additionally, we do not engage with non-Christian religions or beliefs as part of the universal Church. Our approach is to interact with others in a spirit of grace and truth, focusing on common ground while maintaining our commitment to the distinctives of our faith.

Our decision to leave the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) was influenced by several factors that we felt were critical to our mission and convictions:

1. Women in Pastoral Roles: We observed a softening stance within the SBC on the issue of women serving as pastors. We felt it was important to remain consistent with our understanding of Biblical teaching on this matter.
2. Position on Abortion: We were concerned about perceived shifts in the SBC’s stance on abortion. Our church holds a firm pro-life position and believes that any ambiguity on this issue undermines the clear Biblical teaching on the sanctity of life.
3. Critical Theory: The SBC’s increasing embrace of critical theory, which we view as incompatible with our commitment to Biblical truth, was another significant factor. We believe that critical theory’s influence can lead to perspectives that diverge from a Biblical understanding of justice and human nature.
4. Financial Transparency: We also had concerns about the lack of financial transparency within the SBC. For us, transparency and accountability in financial matters are essential for maintaining trust and integrity within the church and its affiliated organizations.

These factors collectively led us to the decision to part ways with the SBC, as we sought to align more closely with our doctrinal convictions and maintain a clear and consistent witness to our beliefs.

No, affirming the 1689 London Baptist Confession is not a requirement for becoming a member of our church. While the 1689 Confession serves as the guiding framework for our teaching and doctrine, we welcome individuals who are committed to the core tenets of the Christian faith and who desire to grow in their walk with Christ.

Membership involves a commitment to the church’s mission and values, and an agreement with the basic principles of Biblical doctrine. However, a formal affirmation of the 1689 Confession is not necessary for membership.

1. Elder-Led Leadership: The church is led by a group of elders who are responsible for the spiritual oversight and direction of the congregation. Elders are tasked with preaching, teaching, and shepherding the church. Their role includes guiding the church in doctrinal matters, providing pastoral care, and ensuring the overall health and growth of the congregation.
2. Congregational Involvement: While elders provide leadership, the congregation plays a significant role in the life of the church. The church body is involved in decisions related to membership, discipline, and significant matters of church life. This congregational involvement ensures that decisions reflect the collective wisdom and unity of the church.
3. Deacons: Deacons are appointed to serve the practical needs of the church, such as managing resources, assisting with administrative tasks, and supporting various ministries. Their role is to support the elders by handling the practical aspects of church life, allowing the elders to focus on spiritual oversight.
4. Decision-Making: Major decisions, including matters of doctrine, church discipline, and significant organizational changes, are made in consultation with both the elders and the congregation. This approach ensures a balanced governance structure that values both spiritual leadership and congregational input.

We adopt an irenic stance regarding those who were baptized as infants or come from traditions that practice paedobaptism, but our church does not administer baptism to infants and practices believer’s baptism by immersion.

Individuals who have been baptized as infants are welcomed as full members of our church. We recognize their previous baptism and uphold them in the fellowship of our community. In the spirit of unity, we invite all baptized believers, regardless of their Trinitarian baptismal background, to participate in the Lord’s Supper (communion) with us.

Our focus is on fostering an environment where believers can grow together in faith, while remaining committed to our practice of believer’s baptism.

We recognize two sacraments instituted by Christ for the Church: baptism and the Lord’s Supper (communion).

1. Baptism:
   • Meaning: Baptism is a visible sign and seal of the believer’s union with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection. It symbolizes the washing away of sins and the believer’s entrance into the covenant community of the Church.
   • Mode: We practice believer’s baptism by immersion, following the example set by Jesus Christ and the pattern seen in the New Testament. This mode reflects the symbolism of being buried with Christ and raised to new life.
   • Recipients: Baptism is administered to those who have made a credible profession of faith in Jesus Christ, including young children. 
2. The Lord’s Supper (Communion):
   • Meaning: The Lord’s Supper is an act of worship in which believers partake of bread and wine to remember Christ’s sacrificial death and to proclaim His return. It signifies the believer’s participation in the benefits of Christ’s body and blood.
   • Frequency: We observe the Lord’s Supper weekly. The purpose is to encourage ongoing reflection on Christ’s sacrifice and to foster spiritual unity within the church body.
   • Participants: The Lord’s Supper is open to all baptized believers who are in good standing with the church and who are actively pursuing a life of faith and repentance.

Both sacraments are essential practices that embody our faith and commitment to Christ, serving as means of grace and opportunities for spiritual growth.

This choice reflects our desire to faithfully follow the example set by Jesus Christ and the early Church, as well as to honor the historical and symbolic significance of the Lord’s Supper.

Biblical Precedent: In the New Testament, Jesus instituted the Lord’s Supper using wine, as described in the Gospels. For instance, in Matthew 26:29 and Mark 14:25, Jesus refers to the “fruit of the vine,” which is understood to be wine. We seek to maintain the practice as closely aligned with the Biblical accounts as possible.

Symbolic Significance: Wine is used in communion to symbolize the blood of Christ, which was shed for the forgiveness of sins. The use of wine, rather than grape juice, is intended to preserve the traditional symbolism and depth of meaning associated with the sacrament.

Historical Practice: Historically, the church has used wine in the observance of the Lord’s Supper. This practice has been consistent throughout much of church history and is maintained to reflect continuity with the church’s traditional understanding of this sacrament.

We hold the following views:

1. The Return of Christ: We believe in the literal and visible return of Jesus Christ to judge the living and the dead. This event will mark the culmination of human history and the fulfillment of God’s promises.
2. The Final Judgment: At Christ’s return, there will be a final judgment where all people will be resurrected and stand before God. The righteous will be rewarded with eternal life, while the wicked will face eternal punishment.
3. The New Heaven and New Earth: Following the final judgment, God will create a new heaven and a new earth where His people will dwell with Him in perfect harmony and joy. This will be the ultimate realization of God’s redemptive plan and the eternal state of righteousness and peace.

1. Heaven:
   • Description: Heaven is the eternal dwelling place of God and the ultimate reward for the righteous. It is described as a state of perfect joy, peace, and communion with God, where believers will experience the fullness of God’s presence and glory.
   • Nature: Heaven is a real, physical place of eternal blessedness, where believers will live in a renewed state of righteousness and holiness, free from sin and suffering.
2. Hell:
   • Description: Hell is the eternal punishment and separation from God reserved for the wicked and unrepentant. It is depicted as a place of conscious torment and despair, where those who have rejected God’s grace face the consequences of their sin.
   • Nature: Hell is a real, physical place of eternal judgment, characterized by unending suffering and separation from the presence of God.

Our church firmly affirms the importance of ministering to the physical needs of the poor, widows, and orphans. We believe that caring for those in need is a vital expression of our Christian faith and a reflection of God’s love and justice. We are committed to serving our community and addressing tangible needs through practical support and outreach.

However, we do not align with critical theory as a framework for understanding social justice. Instead, we focus on applying Biblical principles to our social concerns, emphasizing compassion, justice, and mercy as taught in Scripture. Our approach is rooted in the teachings of the Bible and seeks to address social issues in a manner that aligns with our faith and values.

We believe that marriage is a sacred institution established by God. It is a lifelong covenant between one man and one woman, designed to reflect the relationship between Christ and His Church. Marriage is not only a means of companionship but also a context for mutual support, love, and the procreation and upbringing of children.

The primary purposes of marriage include:

• Mutual Help and Companionship: Marriage provides a partnership where both husband and wife support each other in their journey of faith and daily life.
• Procreation and Parenting: Marriage is the context within which God has ordained the raising of children, nurturing them in the faith and teaching them to live according to God’s commands.
• Reflection of Christ’s Relationship with the Church: The union between husband and wife is meant to mirror the love and commitment between Christ and His Church, characterized by sacrificial love, faithfulness, and respect.

1. Leadership Roles: We hold that while men and women are equal in value and worth, they have distinct roles within the church and the family. Pastoral leadership and the role of elder are reserved for men, based on the Scriptural teachings found in passages such as 1 Timothy 2:12 and Titus 1:6.
2. Ministry Participation: Women are encouraged and supported to participate in various forms of ministry within the church. This includes roles such as teaching women and children, leading in prayer, and serving in various church ministries. Women’s contributions are valued and important for the health and growth of the church.
3. Biblical Basis: Our approach is grounded in the belief that Scripture outlines specific roles for men and women in the church and family, while affirming that both sexes are gifted and called to serve. We seek to honor these Biblical distinctions while promoting the active involvement of women in areas of ministry that align with Scriptural guidelines.

We hold that God’s design for human sexuality is expressed in the union of one man and one woman within the context of marriage. Consequently, we believe that sexual relationships should be confined to this biblical framework.

Yes, we offer pastoral counseling and support for individuals navigating questions about their sexuality. Our aim is to provide guidance rooted in biblical principles, while also offering compassion and care. 

Our pastors provide pastoral care, including counseling for a variety of needs such as marriage issues, grief, parenting challenges, and personal struggles. We are committed to offering support and guidance. Our pastoral team is available to meet with individuals and families to provide counsel and encouragement. If you’re in need of support, please contact the church office to schedule an appointment with one of our pastors. We are here to help and support you in your spiritual and personal journey.

At our church, pre-marital counseling is a requirement for couples who wish to have their marriage ceremony conducted in our church and administered by our pastors. This counseling is provided by one of our pastors and is designed to help couples prepare for a strong and Biblically-centered marriage.

Pre-Marital Counseling:

• Requirement: Couples must complete pre-marital counseling sessions with a pastor before their wedding can be scheduled. These sessions aim to address key aspects of marriage, including communication, finances, spiritual growth, and conflict resolution.
• Purpose: The counseling is intended to equip couples with the tools and understanding necessary for a successful and lasting marriage, grounded in Biblical principles.

Marriage Counseling:

• Support: We also offer marriage counseling for couples seeking to strengthen their relationship or navigate challenges. This counseling is provided by our pastors and focuses on helping couples build a stronger, healthier marriage through Biblically-based guidance.

If you are interested in pre-marital or marriage counseling, please contact the church office to schedule an appointment with one of our pastors.

Our church holds that the Bible is the inspired, infallible, and authoritative Word of God. We affirm that the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the sole rule of faith and practice. The Bible is wholly sufficient for teaching, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness. We believe that it reveals the will of God for salvation and guides us in how to live a life pleasing to Him. Our teachings and practices are rooted in the principles and doctrines found in the Bible, and we are committed to upholding its authority in all aspects of church life.

We believe in one true and living God who exists eternally in three distinct persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. These three persons are coequal and coeternal, each fully God, sharing the same divine essence and attributes, yet each person performs distinct roles in the economy of salvation.

• The Father is the source of all things and the one who sent the Son into the world.
• The Son (Jesus Christ) is the incarnate Word who accomplished our redemption through His death and resurrection.
• The Holy Spirit is the one who applies the work of Christ to believers, empowering and sanctifying them.

This doctrine reflects the Biblical revelation of God’s nature and is central to our faith and understanding of God’s work in the world.

1. Predestination: We believe in the doctrine of predestination, which asserts that God, from eternity past, has sovereignly chosen certain individuals for salvation. This choice is not based on any foreseen merit or action on the part of the individual but is rooted in God’s eternal purpose and grace. This belief emphasizes God’s absolute sovereignty in the salvation of His people, as outlined in passages such as Ephesians 1:4-5 and Romans 8:29-30.
2. Free Will: We also affirm that, while God’s sovereignty is absolute, human beings are responsible for their choices. Due to the fall and the impact of sin, human will is bound by sin and cannot choose righteousness apart from God’s grace. Thus, while humans make real choices, these choices are influenced by their fallen nature until they are redeemed by God’s grace.
3. Reconciliation of the Two: We hold that predestination and human responsibility coexist in a way that aligns with the Biblical testimony. God’s sovereignty in predestination does not negate human responsibility but rather works in harmony with it. This mystery is embraced as part of the broader scope of divine wisdom and justice.

While we don’t have a formal dress code, we encourage you to dress in a way that reflects respect for the worship environment. We suggest wearing attire that is neat and appropriate. Our focus is on creating a welcoming and respectful atmosphere for everyone, so feel free to dress comfortably while keeping in mind the significance of our gatherings. We look forward to seeing you.