Public Statement & Doctrine Alignment

Public Statement & Doctrine Alignment
Last updated on 23 February, 2026.
Version – 1.5

Founder/Operator: Michael Muscroft (aka Muz).

Regarding: Human Identity, Sexuality, Marriage, and Biblical Faithfulness

PUBLIC STATEMENT

RUTS affirms that the Holy Scriptures are the inspired, authoritative, and sufficient Word of God, and they alone govern our faith, doctrine, and practice.

RUTS believes that God created humanity in His image as male and female, equal in value and dignity, distinct by divine design, and created with purpose. This created order is good and intentional, not accidental or subject to personal redefinition.

RUTS affirms that marriage is a sacred covenant ordained by God between one man and one woman, and that sexual intimacy is a gift from God to be expressed exclusively within this covenant.

RUTS acknowledges that all humanity is affected by the Fall and therefore experiences disordered desires of various kinds. Scripture teaches that disciples of Jesus are called to deny themselves, repent of sin, and walk in obedience empowered by grace.

RUTS holds that salvation is offered freely to all through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. No sin places a person beyond the reach of redemption. At the same time, the gospel does not affirm sin but transforms sinners through the power of the Holy Spirit.

RUTS commits to speak the truth of God’s Word with love, humility, and courage. RUTS rejects hatred, mockery, or dehumanisation of any person, while refusing to compromise biblical truth in response to cultural pressure.

RUTS stands firm in these convictions not out of hostility toward the world, but out of love for God, love for people, and faithfulness to Jesus Christ, who alone defines truth and offers eternal life.

DOCTRINE ALIGNMENT DOCUMENT

This document exists to ensure unity among the RUTS leadership, teachers, volunteers, and members regarding core biblical convictions. Agreement with these statements is expected for those serving in leadership or teaching roles.

1. Authority of Scripture

RUTS affirms that the Bible is the final authority in all matters of faith, doctrine, morality, and conduct. Cultural trends, personal experiences, and individual feelings must submit to Scripture.

2. Doctrine of Creation and Identity

We affirm that God intentionally created humanity as male and female. Biological sex is a gift from God and integral to human identity. Attempts to redefine or reject this design are inconsistent with biblical teaching.

3. Doctrine of Marriage and Sexuality

RUTS affirms that marriage is instituted by God as a covenant between one man and one woman. Sexual activity outside of this covenant, including adultery, fornication, and same-sex behaviour, falls outside God’s revealed will.

4. Doctrine of Sin and the Fall

RUTS affirms that all people are sinners by nature and choice. Disordered desires are a result of the Fall, not indicators of God’s design. Sin is universal and requires repentance.

5. Doctrine of Salvation and Sanctification

RUTS affirms that salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone. Those who are saved are called to ongoing repentance, transformation, and growth in holiness.

6. Pastoral Care and Ministry Practice

RUTS commits to offering pastoral care marked by compassion and truth. RUTS will not perform, host, or affirm practices that contradict our doctrinal convictions, while welcoming all people to hear the gospel and pursue Christ.

7. Leadership Expectations

Those serving in leadership or teaching roles are expected to live in a manner consistent with these doctrines. Persistent, unrepentant behaviour contrary to these beliefs may disqualify individuals from leadership. This alignment is not a measure of personal worth, but of doctrinal faithfulness. Our goal is unity in truth, clarity in witness, and faithfulness to Christ.