What do Church of God in Christ believe?
The Church of God in Christ (COGIC) is one of the largest Pentecostal denominations in the United States, with a strong presence in various parts of the world. Founded in 1897 by Bishop Charles H. Mason and his wife, Mrs. Arizona C. Holmes, the church has a rich history and a distinct set of beliefs that shape its theological stance and spiritual practices. This article will explore the core beliefs of the Church of God in Christ, highlighting its unique perspectives on faith and worship.
The Church of God in Christ is rooted in the Pentecostal tradition, which emphasizes the experience of the Holy Spirit and the baptism of the Holy Ghost with the evidence of speaking in tongues. This denomination holds that the baptism of the Holy Spirit is a separate experience from salvation and is available to all believers. Here are some of the key beliefs of the Church of God in Christ:
1. Salvation by Grace: The church teaches that salvation is a gift from God, received through faith in Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice on the cross. This belief is rooted in the Bible, particularly in the New Testament.
2. Baptism in the Holy Ghost: COGIC believes that the baptism of the Holy Ghost is a subsequent experience to salvation, where believers are filled with the power of the Holy Spirit. This experience is accompanied by the initial physical evidence of speaking in tongues.
3. Holiness: The church emphasizes the importance of living a holy life, which involves separating oneself from sin and evil. This belief is based on the teachings of the New Testament and the example of Jesus Christ.
4. Divine Healing: COGIC teaches that divine healing is a part of the atonement of Jesus Christ and is available to all believers. The church encourages members to pray for healing and to seek God’s intervention in times of sickness and suffering.
5. Social Justice: The church is committed to social justice and community service. It believes that as followers of Christ, they have a responsibility to stand up for the oppressed and to work towards a more just and equitable society.
6. Women in Leadership: The Church of God in Christ is known for its strong role of women in leadership. Women have been ordained as bishops, pastors, and deacons, and have played significant roles in the denomination’s growth and development.
7. The Bible as the Supreme Authority: The church holds the Bible as the ultimate authority in matters of faith and practice. It encourages its members to study the Scriptures and to live according to its teachings.
In conclusion, the Church of God in Christ believes in a dynamic and transformative faith that emphasizes the power of the Holy Spirit, the importance of living a holy life, and the pursuit of social justice. Its beliefs are grounded in the Bible and are lived out through the lives of its members in communities around the world.
