“Ever wonder how a small gathering in the mountains can blossom into a global movement?” That’s the story of the Church of God of Prophecy. Right here in Chicago, the Church of God of Prophecy is part of a worldwide community. It shares God’s love. It offers hope to those in need. The Church of God of Prophecy has over one and a half million members. They worship in over 10000 churches and missions. These span 125 nations.
The Church of God of Prophecy began humbly. It started with earnest believers in rural North Carolina in 1886. These spiritual pioneers sought to revive the Spirit-filled Christianity found in the Book of Acts. They formed a Christian Union. They prayed together. They studied the scriptures.
Ambrose Jessup Tomlinson became their leader. He was an energetic young pastor from Indiana. In 1903, the group formally organized as the Church of God. The following year, it moved to Cleveland, Tennessee. This move signaled growth from Appalachia to the world.
This Church of God of Prophecy considers itself a continuation of early Christianity. They believe that all church decisions must involve prayer. They must be based on scripture. The Church of God of Prophecy embraces several key beliefs. These place them within the Protestant, Evangelical, Wesleyan holiness tradition. They also adhere to Pentecostal movement principles. They affirm man’s free will in choosing salvation.
The Church of God of Prophecy accepts the Bible. They view it as God’s inspired and infallible word. They see it as the ultimate authority for faith and practice. This view reflects the influence of C.I. Scofield. His writings on dispensationalism shaped the Church’s early organizers.
Baptism by immersion is a key practice. They also observe the Lord’s Supper. Feet washing is another ordinance. Members must profess to be born again. They must maintain a consistent Christian life. They do not believe membership is required to be Christian.
In 1923, a dispute arose. It concerned finances and governance. The Church of God split. The Church of God of Prophecy remained with Tomlinson. He served as general overseer until his death in 1943. The church officially added “of Prophecy” to its name on May 2, 1952.
The Church of God of Prophecy operates various ministries. These include children’s homes. They run Bible training institutes. They organize youth camps. They provide ministerial aid. The Church even has a Bible theme park. It’s called Fields of the Wood. It is a popular tourist attraction.
The Church strives for unity among believers. They teach the importance of strong Christian families. They uphold the sanctity of marriage.
The Church of God of Prophecy in Chicago. It is more than just a building. It represents a global story of faith. It represents community. It represents a journey that began in the mountains. It continues to spread its message of hope. It shares love throughout the world.