Here stands GPDI Yordan, a testament to faith and community in Jakarta. Founded in 1921, the Gereja Pantekosta di Indonesia or GPDI started with missionaries. These missionaries Rev Cornelius Groesbeek and Rev Dutch descendant Richard Van Klaveren came from the Church of Bethel Temple Seattle USA to Indonesia.
GPDI’s origins trace back to humble beginnings. Imagine the challenges these early missionaries faced spreading their message across Indonesia. Their journey began in Bali before moving to Surabaya in 1922. In 1923, the ministry found fertile ground in Cepu. It is an oil city where many Indonesians repented. They were filled with the Holy Spirit.
Among these early converts were H.N. Runkat and J. Repi. Also A. Tambuwun, J. Lumenta and many more became pioneers. They spread the Pentecostal movement throughout Indonesia. The Dutch East Indies Government recognized the church in 1924. It became a legitimate association called “De Pinkster Gemeente in Nederlansch Indie”. New churches began to grow everywhere. This was due to the power of the Holy Spirit. It was also thanks to the high spirit of service.
GPDI’s growth wasn’t without its challenges. In 1937, the government increased recognition of the Pentecostal movement. It became a church alliance based on the Statutes of 1927. During the Japanese occupation in 1942, the Dutch name changed. It became the “Pentecostal Church in Indonesia”.
Several divisions occurred over time. These divisions led to new churches. Founders of these churches came from GPDI. These include Rev Ho Liong Seng who founded GBI church. Rev Isaac Lew left in 1959 and founded GPPS.
The pioneers played a vital role. Rev H.N. Runkat expanded the church on Java. Rev Yulianus Repi and Rev A. Tambuwun went to North Sulawesi. Rev E. Lesnussa went to Makassar. Rev Nanlohy reached the Maluku islands. Rev S.I.P Lumoindong ministered in Yogyakarta. Rev A.E. Siwi sowed the seeds in Sumatra. Rev RM Soeprapto began services in Blitar. Rev Siloey pioneered services to Kupang NTT. Rev JMP Coal worked in West Kalimantan. Rev Yonathan Itar was a pioneer in Irian Jaya. Their sacrifices allowed GPDI to grow rapidly.
GPDI emphasizes the Holy Spirit. The experiences in Acts 2 are dominant. Disciples experienced the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Simon Peter and other disciples preached. The church was born. GPDI believes in the anti-Christ. They believe in the kingdom of 1000 years of peace. They also believe in the second coming of Jesus.
Today, GPDI Yordan stands as a beacon of faith. It is a place of worship and community. It’s a reminder of the dedication. It also reminds us of the sacrifices. GPDI Yordan continues to serve its community. It upholds its rich history.