What does the Gideons believe? The Gideons International is a well-known Christian organization that has been distributing Bibles and other religious materials for over a century. Founded in 1899 by W. W. Gideons, the organization has grown to become a global presence, with members in over 190 countries. At the heart of the Gideons’ mission is a set of core beliefs that guide their actions and decisions.
The Gideons believe in the authority and inerrancy of the Bible as the inspired Word of God. They hold that the Bible is the ultimate source of truth and guidance for believers, and they strive to make it accessible to as many people as possible. This belief is reflected in their primary mission of providing Bibles to hotels, hospitals, prisons, and other institutions around the world.
In addition to their commitment to the Bible, the Gideons also hold to several key theological beliefs. They believe in the Trinity, the existence of God as one Being in three persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. They also believe in the virgin birth of Jesus, His sinless life, His death and resurrection, and His ultimate return to judge the living and the dead.
Another important belief of the Gideons is the concept of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. They teach that salvation is a gift from God, not something that can be earned through good works or religious rituals. This belief is rooted in the teachings of the New Testament, which they consider to be the final authority on matters of faith and practice.
The Gideons also emphasize the importance of personal evangelism and the need to share the Gospel with others. They believe that every person has the potential to receive salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, and they are committed to helping people understand and respond to the Good News.
In terms of their organizational structure, the Gideons are led by a board of directors and are divided into local chapters, known as districts. Each district has its own set of leaders and volunteers who work together to fulfill the organization’s mission. The Gideons also have a strong emphasis on prayer, believing that divine guidance is essential in their work.
In conclusion, the Gideons believe in the Bible as the Word of God, the Trinity, the virgin birth and resurrection of Jesus, salvation by grace through faith, and the importance of personal evangelism. These beliefs shape their mission to distribute Bibles and other religious materials, and to share the Gospel with people around the world. The Gideons’ dedication to their core beliefs has made them a significant force in global Christianity for over a century.
