We embrace Biblical and Historic Christianity as expressed in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, and as summarized in the Nicene and Apostles’ Creed. Additionally, as a member of the ECO denomination, we affirm the ECO’s Essential Tenets as a brief summary of our doctrinal commitments.

Biblical Faithfulness

We are rooted in Scripture, believing that God speaks through his living and active Word today, just as he has in the past. In a time when many struggle to find meaning and direction, we believe that the Bible tells the true story of the triune God, the world, and ourselves, and we endeavor to live humbly and responsively within that story.

Gospel Community

We are bound together in our differences through the gospel of Jesus Christ. We seek to live as an authentic spiritual family that crosses generational, cultural, and vocational lines. By loving one another, we bear witness to the power of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection to reconcile us to God and neighbor.

Intentional Discipleship

We are growing as Christ-followers, equipping one another for deep understanding of the faith and faithful living in every dimension of life.  Training hearts, minds and hands, we aim to cultivate spiritual maturity, encourage one another towards wisdom, and help every person be transformed into the likeness of Jesus. Watch a conversation about what this value looks like at Third.

Missional Orientation

We are sent out in the power of the Holy Spirit to proclaim the good news of Jesus, his grace, and his Kingdom, and to join in God’s work of restoration.  We lovingly engage and sacrificially give ourselves to advance the shalom of metro Richmond and the world. Watch a conversation about what this value means for Third.

Catalytic Culture

We are creating partnerships that invite others into the broader movement of God, focusing on the growth of the Kingdom more than that of Third Church. We foster an entrepreneurial, risk-taking culture to equip and release Spirit-led leaders to seed our region and world with new ministries, communities and institutions for the common good. Watch a conversation about what this value looks like at Third.