Salem Christian Union follows the doctrine of the Christian Union of America organization of churches. The Christian Union movement was founded on seven key doctrinal principles in the 1860’s. These principles continue to be at the foundation of Christian Union of America churches and guide each local congregation in all ministry and business of the church.  They are unique to Christian Union of America and it’s member churches.

1. The Oneness of the Church of Christ (I Cor. 12:12, Psalms 133:1, Romans 12:5, John 17:20 – 21) – Christian Union churches are multi-generational, diverse across many different walks of life and personal backgrounds. Individual talents and abilities are welcome in the work of the kingdom, however, all parts must work together as one in the church. Members are encouraged to work together in harmony, singularly focused on the ministry of the church.
2. Christ the Only Head (Eph. 1:22, Col. 1:18) – Christian Union of America incorporates volunteer leadership at the General Council level, State Council level, and in each local church. However Christ is the only Head of the Christian Union of America churches. Christ alone is the foundation stone, the author, and possessor of His church. Christ is God shown in the flesh.
3. The Bible the only rule of faith and practice (2 Timothy 3:14-17, Romans 15:4, Psalms 119:97-104) – The Bible, not man made creeds or teachings, contains the whole message of God concerning all things necessary for His own glory, man’s salvation, faith and life. The Bible is the standard by which Christian Union of America churches preach and teach.
4. Good Fruits the only condition of Fellowship (Matt. 7:16, James 3:17) – All who proclaim Christ as their Savior or who wish to know Christ as their Savior are welcome to worship in Christian Union of America churches. Personal political views, financial status, or personal backgrounds do not preclude anyone from joining in worship and learning God’s truths.
5. Christian Union without controversy (Mark 9:38-40, 2 Tim. 2:14, Eph 4:2-3) – “In all things essential-unity. In all things non essential-liberty. In all things-charity. “ This motto was adopted by the Christian Union many years ago and still holds true today. Personal preferences, non essential doctrines, or practices are not to be a source of controversy in the local church. Jesus commands us to work together in harmony, demonstrating gentleness, patience, grace, and love to our fellow believers.
6. Each local church governs itself (Acts 14: 23- 15:6) – Within the framework of the General Council and State Councils each church is an independent body of believers, free to make needed decisions, run their church business, and be funded from their own body of believers. Local churches have autonomy to minister to their local community as they see fit provided the preaching and teaching remains within the doctrinal guidelines of the Christian Union of America.
7. Partisan Political preaching discountenanced (2 Tim 2:14 – 15) – Christian Union church services and ministries are to be free of partisan (one sided) political preaching. God’s word is to be preached and taught in order to strengthen the believers. The pulpit is not to be used as a means to garner support for or renounce political views.

To Learn more about Christian Union, visit the organization’s website at www.christianunion.com