Our Beliefs

What do we believe at South Tampa Fellowship?

At South Tampa Fellowship, everything we do flows from what we believe. Our faith is not just a set of ideas—it’s the foundation of our lives, our church, and our mission to become authentic followers of Jesus. Below you’ll find an overview of our core beliefs, all grounded in Scripture and centered on the gospel.

God the Father

We believe in God the Father as the loving, sovereign Master Planner over all creation. While fully equal with the Son and the Spirit, He uniquely initiates salvation by sending Jesus to redeem a broken world. He reigns supremely, forgives sin, and calls people into a restored relationship through faith in Christ.

“Yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live.” (1 Corinthians 8:6) See also: John 16:15; Matthew 6:14; John 3:16; 1 Peter 1:3; Luke 10:21; Ephesians 4:6

Jesus Christ, the Son

We believe that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was miraculously conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. Fully God and fully man, Jesus lived a perfect life, revealed the character of God, and died on the cross as the perfect sacrifice for sin.

We believe in His bodily resurrection, His ascension into heaven, and His current role as our Advocate and Intercessor. One day, He will return to judge the living and the dead and establish His eternal Kingdom.

“The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.” (John 1:14) See also: Colossians 1:15-20; Philippians 2:7; Hebrews 7:25; Revelation 19–21

The Holy Spirit

We believe that the Holy Spirit is God’s active presence in the world today. He convicts people of sin, brings new life through regeneration, and lives within all believers. The Spirit empowers us, teaches us truth, and leads us to live holy, fruitful lives that reflect Christ.

“When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth.” (John 16:13) See also: Romans 8:9; Ephesians 1:13-14; 1 Corinthians 12:12-14

The Bible

We believe that the Holy Scriptures, both Old and New Testaments, are the inspired Word of God—completely true and authoritative for all areas of life. Scripture is God’s revelation to us and our ultimate guide for faith, practice, and daily living.

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16) See also: 2 Peter 1:20-21; Matthew 5:18; John 16:12-13

Humanity

We believe that humanity was created in the image of God, yet because of sin, all people are separated from God and unable to save themselves. This brokenness affects every area of life and can only be healed through God’s grace.

“All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) See also: Genesis 1:26-27; Ephesians 2:1-3

Salvation

We believe that salvation is by grace through faith—a free gift from God, made possible through the death and resurrection of Jesus. It is not earned by works, but received by trusting in Jesus Christ alone for the forgiveness of sins and eternal life.

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 2:8) See also: John 1:12; 1 Peter 1:18-19

The Church

We believe the Church is the body of Christ, made up of all believers, called to worship, serve, and live on mission together. We are a spiritual family, united in Christ, being formed into His image and equipped to make disciples.

“Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” (1 Corinthians 12:27) See also: Ephesians 1:22-23; 5:25-27

Baptism & Communion

We believe that baptism and communion are two sacred practices instituted by Jesus. Baptism by immersion is a public declaration of faith, symbolizing new life in Christ. Communion is a regular remembrance of Jesus’ sacrifice, open to all who believe in Him.

“We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death…” (Romans 6:4) See also: Matthew 28:19; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26

Want to know more about our beliefs?

Let’s talk. Our pastors are ready to walk you through what we believe, why it matters, and how it impacts everyday life.

Download the 2024 Annual Report

Get the latest updates on STF for 2024 and the proposed budget for 2025.

View our Constitution and Bylaws

Read over the STF constitution and bylaws.

What This Means for You

At STF, our beliefs shape everything—from our worship services to how we serve our city. Whether you’re exploring faith or have followed Jesus for years, we invite you to grow with us as we become authentic followers of Him together.

Get in Touch with Us

97 Biscayne Ave. Tampa, FL 33611

813-251-1515

info@southtampafellowship.com