How about discovering a spiritual home that spans continents. That’s the essence of the Church of God International. Here in Toronto we’re standing before one of its many congregations spread across the globe.
The Church of God International traces its roots back to the very beginning. Its origins are in the church founded by Jesus in the first century. Members consider themselves “called out ones”. They practice Christianity as initiated by Jesus. The early apostles furthered this practice. They strive to live the faith “once delivered to the saints”. This is from Jude 3. They obey the same message taught by Jesus Christ. They proclaim the same gospel taken to the world by the disciples. Members value the witness and teachings of Jesus Christ. They see this as the church’s primary work.
The Church of God International is based in Tyler Texas. It was incorporated in 1978. From there it grew to include ministers and congregations in many places. These places are the United States and Canada. Other locations are Kenya Jamaica the Philippines Australia and the United Kingdom. A growing number of countries around the world have churches too.
The Church of God International’s mission is clear. They preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world. This aligns with Matthew 28:19. They employ several tools to achieve this. These tools are personal evangelism television streaming booklets and the internet.
The Church of God International’s beliefs rest firmly on the Bible. They believe that God’s people must live by every word that proceeds from God. This idea is supported by Matthew 4:4.
The Church of God International believes in one eternal God. This God is all-powerful. He is the supreme creator of the universe. God exists as a family. This family currently consists of God the Father and Jesus Christ the Son.
They also believe the Bible is divinely inspired. It contains God’s plan for salvation. The Bible reveals knowledge that man cannot discover on his own. It is the foundation of knowledge. It is the guidebook for life.
Jesus of Nazareth is the Christ. He is the Son of God. He is also the Son of Man. He was the prophesied Messiah. He is fully human and fully divine. He existed eternally as the “Word”. He became human to die for mankind’s sins. He was resurrected. He ascended to heaven to become our High Priest. Jesus Christ shall return. He will establish the Kingdom of God on earth. He will rule as King of Kings with His saints forever.
The Holy Spirit is the essence power and mind of God. It strengthens Christians spiritually. It converts their minds. It guarantees eternal life.
Humans can receive eternal life as a gift from God. Man was created in God’s image. He has a spiritual component. This component composes the human mind.
The hope of mankind is resurrection from the dead. The Bible mentions Jesus Christ’s resurrection. This makes him the firstborn from the dead. It also mentions the resurrection of the saints. This is called the “first resurrection”. It happens at Christ’s return. True believers become spirit-composed members of God’s family.
The Church of God International is more than just a place of worship. It’s a global community. They are connected by faith. They are driven by a shared mission. They preach the Gospel and uphold the teachings of Jesus Christ. As you explore its presence here in Toronto remember its worldwide reach. It touches lives across continents. It offers a message of hope. It provides a path to spiritual fulfillment.