A Word on Our Doctrinal Statement

A Word on Our Doctrinal Statement from Pastor Mark Driscoll

The doctrinal statement of Mars Hill Church was first formulated prior to our public launch in 1996 when I was a new Christian and new pastor. That original doctrinal statement is still helpful for understanding our convictions and can be found here.

However, while our original doctrinal statement still reflects the core beliefs of our church, over the years our studies have clarified much of our thinking and have caused us to become more precise and devoted to some doctrines, which our original statement does not reflect. Our doctrinal convictions have not changed but rather have matured by God’s grace.

Subsequently, we are working on updating our doctrinal statement as an elder team. I am also working with Dr. Gerry Breshears to write a book titled Doctrine, which will be based on a sermon series teaching our biblical convictions.

What helped precipitate this conviction for an improved doctrinal statement was my participation in the drafting of a confession of faith and philosophy of ministry as a member of The Gospel Coalition (Confessional Statement). That team included our leaders D. A. Carson and Tim Keller, along with such gifted Bible teachers as John Piper, Alistair Begg, Kent Hughes, Mark Dever, Ligon Duncan, Bryan Chapell, Crawford Loritts, Erwin Lutzer, James MacDonald, C. J. Mahaney, Ray Ortlund, and Phil Ryken, among others.

An updated and more robust Mars Hill Church doctrinal statement and the accompanying book will be published in early 2009. Until then, it is our hope that these two doctrinal statements are sufficient to clarify what we believe as a church.

For Jesus’ Fame,
Pastor Mark Driscoll