Does the name Apollo Quiboloy ring a bell? That name is closely tied to the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. The Kingdom of Jesus Christ is officially known as Kingdom of Jesus Christ The Name Above Every Name Inc. It is a nontrinitarian Restorationist church. This church was founded by Apollo Quiboloy. He styles himself as the Appointed Son of God.
Before founding the Kingdom of Jesus Christ Apollo Quiboloy lived in exile. He stayed in Tamayong for five years. Later he moved to Sitio Kitbog at Mount Matutum. Quiboloy says revelations from God in his dreams led to the church’s foundation.
Quiboloy was a member of the United Pentecostal Church of the Philippines. He was expelled in 1979 for unorthodox teachings. In 1985 Quiboloy left the UPCP. He and 15 followers started the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. The church began on September 1 1985. Quiboloy’s prayer house was on Villamor Street Davao City.
The Kingdom of Jesus Christ believes Quiboloy is the Appointed Son of God. Members called Kingdom citizens believe salvation is exclusive to them. This belief is against mainstream Christianity.
The Kingdom of Jesus Christ claims to have millions of members. However former members say there are fewer. The Philippine National Police also supports this claim. They state that there are only about 8000 active members.
The Kingdom of Jesus Christ has faced many controversies. Critics call it a cult. Its founder has been indicted for criminal charges. In 2024 the church faced scrutiny by the Philippine government. This was for alleged violations including sexual exploitation of children. Quiboloy was arrested after raids in September 2024.
Linked organizations include the Children’s Joy Foundation. This foundation claims to provide humanitarian aid to destitute children. The Sonshine Philippines Movement is also connected. Its stated goal is involvement in reforestation and disaster relief efforts.
In January 2020 the FBI raided Kingdom of Jesus Christ offices. This was after complaints of immigration fraud. The FBI said the church conducted sham marriages. This was to keep people illegally in the United States. Victims were forced to solicit donations. They sold pastries claiming to raise funds for the church. They received little to no pay. Some faced physical or psychological abuse.
In 2021 Quiboloy was indicted for child sex trafficking. Prosecutors said he sexually and physically abused minors. He allegedly forced children into sex with him. This was through so called night duties. Failure to comply resulted in eternal damnation.
YouTube terminated the Kingdom of Jesus Christ channel in July 2023. Google said this complied with US sanctions laws. These laws had sanctioned Quiboloy for alleged human rights abuses.
The Kingdom of Jesus Christ remains a controversial organization. Its history beliefs and actions continue to generate debate.