In 1996, Pastor Scott and Darla came to Sarasota to pioneer this church. What began with a handful of people meeting in a gymnasium has grown through the faithfulness of God. Over the years, the Lord has added the people, resources, languages, and locations needed to carry out the mission of Jesus.

In 2000, the church purchased approximately 50 acres along I-75, and in 2007, the church building was opened to the glory of God. Through every season, the mission has remained the same: to bring people into a life-changing relationship with Jesus as we love God, love people, and love life.

There is one God who is Creator and Ruler of the universe. He has revealed Himself as Father, Son, Holy Spirit. These three are co-equal and are one God.

Genesis 1:1,26,27; 3:22; Psalm 90:2; Matthew 28:19; 1 Peter 1:2; 2 Corinthians 13:14

Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He is co-equal with the Father. Jesus lived a sinless human life and offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of all people by dying on a cross. He arose from the dead after three days to demonstrate His power over sin and death. He ascended to Heaven’s glory and will return again someday to earth to reign as King of kings, and Lord of lords.

Matthew 1:22,23; Isaiah 9:6; John 1:1-5; 14:10-30; Hebrews 4:14; 15; 1 Corinthians 15:3,4; Romans 1:3.4; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Timothy 6:14,15; Titus 2:13

The Holy Spirit is co-equal with the Father and the Son of God. He is present in the world to make men aware of their need for Jesus Christ. He also lives in every Christian from the moment of salvation. He provides the Christian with power for living, understanding of spiritual truth, and guidance in doing what is right. As Christians we seek to live under His control daily and to be filled with His presence and power.

1 Corinthians 3:16; John 16:7-13; 14:16,17; Acts 1:8; 1 Corinthians 2:12, 3:16; Ephesians 1:13; Galatians 5:25; Ephesians 5:18

The Bible is God’s Word to us. Human authors, under the supernatural guidance of the Holy Spirit wrote it. It is the supreme source of truth for Christian beliefs and living. Because it is inspired by God, it is the truth without any mixture of error.

2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:20,21; 2 Timothy 1:13; Psalm 119:89, 105, 160; Proverbs 30:5

People are made in the spiritual image of God, to be like Him in character. People are the supreme object of God’s creation. Although every person has tremendous potential for good, all of us are marred by an attitude of disobedience toward God called “sin”. This attitude separates people from God and causes many problems in life.

Genesis 1:27; Psalm 8:3-6; Isaiah 53:6; Romans 3:23; Isaiah 59:1,2

Salvation is God’s free gift to us; but we must accept it. We can never make up for our sin by self-improvement or good works. Only by trusting in Jesus Christ as God’s offer of forgiveness can anyone be saved from sin’s penalty. When we turn from our self-ruled life and turn to Jesus in faith we are saved. Eternal life begins the moment one receives Jesus Christ into his life by faith and makes a commitment to Him as Savior and Lord.

Romans 6:23; Ephesians 2:8,9; John 14:6, 1:12; Titus 3:5; Galatians 3:26; Romans 5:1

People were created to exist forever. We will either exist eternally separated from God by sin, or eternally with God through forgiveness and salvation. To be eternally separated from God is Hell. To be eternally in union with Him is eternal life. Heaven and Hell are real places of eternal existence.

John 3:16; Romans 6:23; Romans 8:17-18; Revelation 20:15; 1 Corinthians 2:7-9

Pastor Scott and Darla serve the Church of Hope in Sarasota, which they planted in 1996. Scott's commitment to following Jesus has led him through many ministries, including pastor, missionary evangelist, national television broadcaster and producer, AG Assistant District Superintendent, and Executive Presbyter at the Assemblies of God National Headquarters. His studies include an undergraduate degree in theology, a graduate degree in communication, and a doctorate in religious studies. His greatest goal is to bring glory to Jesus, our Lord and Savior!

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