Frequently Asked Questions

We do not believe Scripture commands a specific frequency for partaking in communion, so we do not treat it as a point of division. Jesus said, “…do this whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.” Acts 20:7 records, “On the first day of the week we came together to break bread,” which we interpret as a reference to communion. Additionally, early church traditions suggest that believers observed communion each Sunday.

Our worship music reflects the rich culture of the Ozarks, blending tradition with a touch of modern influence. While most of our songs are classic hymns or gospel, we also incorporate thoughtfully selected contemporary pieces that complement our distinctive acoustic “mountain music” style. With instruments like the guitar, banjo, piano, bass, harmonica and more, our music is alive with energy, joy, and - above  all - praise.

The preaching style at NTCC is primarily Bible expository, rooted in the strong conviction that God’s Word is the ultimate authority in every Christian's life. It serves as the spiritual milk and meat essential for growth, as highlighted in 2 Timothy 3:15-17. By preaching through all portions of the Bible, this approach ensures a balanced perspective, steering clear of personal biases and addressing all topics, including challenging and controversial ones.

At times, we may pass offering plates for a special need or ministry. However, for our general fund offering, we simply provide a designated receptacle near the entrance and exit of our worship service, allowing people to give their tithes and offerings as they feel led. While some critics have claimed that this approach will lead to lower giving, our experience tells a different story. A quick look at our average gift per attendee over the years shows that NTCC consistently exceeds the average giving curve.

No, we are not affiliated with the National New Testament Christian Churches of  America (NTCC). When our congregation was founded in 2017, our founders were unaware of that particular denomination, headquartered in Graham, Washington, which holds beliefs and practices that differ from ours. Our identity is more closely aligned with the Restoration Movement, a Christian tradition that emerged in the 1800s with a simple yet profound desire: “No creed but Christ, no book but the Bible.” Today, churches within this movement are commonly known as Independent Christian Churches, distinguished by their lack of a centralized headquarter or governing hierarchy beyond the local congregation. As a self-governed local church, we cherish the freedom to associate with any other churches that uphold the lordship of Jesus Christ and recognize the Bible as God’s authoritative Word.

We firmly believe that all 39 books of the Old Testament are just as much God’s Holy Word as the 27 books of the New Testament. Many of our sermons and classes are rooted in Old Testament passages, highlighting their wisdom and relevance. However, since churches did not exist until New Testament times - after Jesus’ coming - our name reflects our commitment to patterning our church after those found in the New Testament, following their teachings, practices, and example.

At NTCC, baptism by immersion is considered a requirement for church membership, grounded in the core belief of being a "Bible Christian" - a follower of Jesus as revealed in the New Testament. The Bible describes salvation as a gift of God’s grace, received through faith (Ephesians 2:8). Grace signifies God’s role in salvation: sending Jesus to live a sinless life, sacrifice Himself for humanity's sins, and rise from the dead. However, individuals also play a role in salvation, expressing faith through belief, repentance, and baptism. The Book of Acts demonstrates how people respond to God’s grace through faith. For example, Acts 4:4 mentions that many who heard the message believed, showing acceptance of Jesus as the Savior. Similarly, in Acts 2, Peter addresses the crowd’s  question, "What shall we do?" by emphasizing two more actions of faith - repentance and baptism. These responses, encompassing belief, repentance, and baptism, are expressions of faith rather than works that earn salvation. Instead, they are how individuals receive and respond to God’s gift of eternal life. In this context, NTCC views baptism as a vital expression of faith for those seeking salvation and church membership.

We include baptism because we believe Jesus did (Matthew 28:19) and that the early church followed His example. A quick look through the book of Acts reveals numerous instances where baptism by immersion was an integral part of the conversion process (Acts 2:38, 41; 8:12, 38, etc.). Baptism is one of the active steps that expresses saving faith, standing alongside confessing Jesus as Lord and repenting of sin. Scripture makes it clear that none of these actions earn salvation, which is solely a free gift from God (Romans 6:23). Rather, these steps serve as expressions of our faith, demonstrating the transforming convictions that live within.

Back in 2018, when NTCC was just beginning with a congregation of 60, they made a bold decision to purchase a 70,000 square-foot former middle school and high school. Though small in number, their vision was anything but. They believed that if they dedicated the facility to “community outreach in the name of Christ,” God  would provide for the costs. Today, years later, that faith has been richly rewarded - the total building debt has been reduced to just $10,000. Even more remarkable, the people have never ventured from their original mission, continuing to serve and uplift the community with unwavering commitment.

As we reflect on the years past, we are continually amazed at the many opportunities God has placed before us. In keeping with our mission, we have prioritized community usage for nonprofit entities, fostering meaningful partnerships that enrich our shared space. Some collaborations have been long-term, with portions of our building leased for dedicated use. From 2018 to 2024, the Stone County Developmental Disability Board operated in our south-end offices and classrooms. Today, that same space serves as the offices and court for the City of Reeds Spring. Since 2018, CHANCES of Stone  County - a vital service supporting individuals with developmental disabilities - has utilized two of our larger rooms. Additionally, the Reeds Spring Hall of Fame Museum has found its home in one of our classrooms, preserving local history for future generations. Our campus has also welcomed numerous one-time events, filling our 430-seat theater/auditorium with concerts, plays, seminars, and large public gatherings. The gymnasium has hosted everything from sporting events, craft fairs, and fundraisers to Stone County’s Christmas Toy Drive - bringing joy to over 1,000 children each year - along with our own Sunday worship services. The traditional chapel, ideal for  groups of 70 or fewer, offers an intimate setting for reflection and fellowship. Meanwhile, our retro-60’s style diner remains a popular choice for receptions, reunions, and other gatherings centered around food and community. In addition to all of this we are beginning to offer accessible space for climate-controlled storage.

Jesus is Lord overall, and as the head of His church - both worldwide and local - He holds ultimate authority. However, we recognize the need for each congregation to establish a leadership structure based on the examples and instructions found in the New Testament. Scripture passages such as 1 Timothy 3, Titus 1, and 1 Peter 5 clearly teach that elders are to be selected as servant leaders, overseeing the spiritual well-being of the church. Likewise, deacons - described in 1 Timothy and referenced in Acts 6:1-6, Philippians 1:1, and Romans 16:1-2 - serve as ministry leaders, using their God-given gifts to support the congregation. Among these leaders, the Preaching Minister is perhaps the most visible, faithfully delivering God's Word and assisting the elders in guiding the church. Yet leadership extends beyond these roles - many others within the church lead ministries that are vital  to NTCC’s spiritual health and mission.