“Ever been part of a movement?” I ask gesturing towards Holy Church of God. It is not just a building. It embodies a moving church. Its passion transforms the world.
Holy Church of God has roots in the Church of God denomination. Its International Headquarters are in Cleveland Tennessee. The story began in 1886. It started in a log building near Barney and Coker Creeks. This location was near the Tennessee North Carolina boundary.
Between 1903 and 1905 two new churches emerged in Tennessee. The Church of God expanded into Georgia. Spiritually unfulfilled people sought holiness. They desired the Pentecostal blessing.
By 1905 the movement thrived. A general gathering of all churches was requested. They wanted to address important questions. They searched the Bible for additional understanding. On January 27 1906 the first General Assembly of the Church of God convened. It was held at Camp Creek Tennessee. This was close to the movement’s birthplace.
By 1908 the Church of God included 12 united congregations. During this time a significant revival occurred in Cleveland Tennessee. The Third Assembly was consequently held there. On April 28 1909 the first Church of God meeting took place in Tampa Florida. The Church of God had officially arrived in Florida. The first Church of God in Florida was organized on May 17 1909.
The Church of God believes in the Bible. It is completely inspired and the written Word of God. The Church has a Declaration of Faith. This serves as its standard and official expression of doctrine.
The Church of God considers itself Christian. It is built upon Jesus Christ the Son of God. The church’s doctrines and practices are based on His teachings. It is also Protestant. The Church of God is founded upon Protestantism’s principles. It firmly upholds justification by faith. It believes in the priesthood of believers. The church values the Bible’s authority. It cherishes religious freedom and the separation of church and state.
The Church of God subscribes to foundational Christian doctrines. It considers itself Evangelical. It affirms the primary doctrines revealed in the Scriptures. It believes in the Trinity. The church acknowledges the deity and virgin birth of Jesus Christ. It trusts in salvation through faith in Christ’s atoning death. It looks forward to Christ’s second coming.
Many Church of God members experienced a spiritual outpouring in 1896. They identified it as baptism of the Holy Spirit. This became known as a Pentecostal experience. It enriched Christian life through the Holy Spirit’s power. Believers were empowered to be effective witnesses of Christ.
From its beginning the Church of God has been a revival movement. Evangelism is at the forefront of its activities. The church aggressively shares Christ’s message worldwide. Every program reflects an evangelistic attitude.
The Church of God is centrally organized. It has administration at international state and local levels. The control of the Church rests with laity and ministers. They jointly form the General Assembly. The Assembly meets biennially.
Holy Church of God is part of this legacy. It is a place where faith community and outreach meet. The purpose is to reach inspire and develop others to transform the world.