We're Often Asked...
Frequently Asked Questions About the Worldwide Church of God
 “Always be prepared to give an answer to
everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with
gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15). |
What is the Worldwide Church of God, and what is its mission?
The Worldwide Church of God, with its administrative center in Glendora, California, has members in more than 100 countries and territories. The mission of the church is to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ around the world and to nurture members in the Christian life (Matthew 28:19-20). Click here for more information on our mission.
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The Worldwide Church of God, originally the Radio Church of God, was established in Eugene, Oregon, in 1933 through the evangelistic efforts of Herbert W. Armstrong. It took its present name in 1968. Click here for more information on our history.
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A native of Des Moines, Iowa, Herbert W. Armstrong was working in advertising when, in 1926, he began a diligent study of the Bible. This study led to his conversion and subsequent ordination as a minister of the Oregon Conference of the Church of God (Seventh Day). After establishing new congregations in the Pacific Northwest, he founded a radio ministry in 1934. As a result of the work of the radio ministry, congregations were established throughout North America and, beginning in 1953, the rest of the world.
Mr. Armstrong also established a television program, a magazine, Ambassador University and Ambassador Foundation. He served as pastor general of the Worldwide Church of God until his death in 1986. Click here for more information on Herbert Armstrong.
What does the church believe?
The church believes it is called to proclaim the gospel of redemption and salvation by God's grace through faith in Jesus Christ, and the hope of his second coming to bring about the fullness of the kingdom of God.
As a Spirit-led body of believers, the church is exhorted, "Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 3:18). The church constantly renews its commitment to truth and deeper understanding, and responds to God's guidance in its beliefs and practices. Since the death of church founder Herbert W. Armstrong, the church has undergone major changes in doctrines, bringing it into the mainstream of evangelical Christianity.
More about the church's beliefs and doctrines is available in our free publication Statement of Beliefs of the Worldwide Church of God.
Are you part of the Seventh-day Adventists?
No, we are not part of the Seventh-day Adventist church.
Why do many of your congregations meet on Saturdays?
A growing percentage of our churches meet for worship on Sundays. The Worldwide Church of God once taught that observance of the seventh-day Sabbath was required for Christians. Since 1994, however, the church has recognized that the true Christian Sabbath, or rest, is the redeemed new life in Christ, something the Sabbath day only symbolized. Although many Worldwide Church of God congregations still meet on the seventh day due to local circumstances, there is no denominational requirement to restrict worship to any particular day. Click here to see our study of the Sabbath.
Do you believe Jesus is God?
Yes. We believe that Jesus is the eternal Son of God, second Person of the Trinity, God manifest in the flesh for our salvation. We believe Jesus was begotten of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary, fully man and fully God.
We believe Jesus is Lord of all, worthy of worship, honor and reverence, and the prophesied Savior of humanity. He died for our sins, was raised from the dead, and ascended to heaven, from where he mediates between human beings and God. He will come again to reign as King of kings over all nations in the fullness of the kingdom of God.
Do you believe in the Trinity?
Yes. We believe Scripture reveals one God who is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The triune nature of God is foundational to Worldwide Church of God doctrine.
What do you teach about the gospel?
The gospel is the good news of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ for the salvation of humans. Jesus' final commission to his apostles, being sent out as his ministers to build his church, was this: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:19-20).
Sin alienates humans from God. This alienation has been the human condition ever since the Garden of Eden. Paul tells us, "The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23). The "good news," or gospel, is that we have a Redeemer who has atoned for our sins, and God accepts us on the basis of what Christ has done.
At his second coming, Jesus will establish his throne over all the nations of the world. In the fullness of his kingdom there will be "no more death or mourning or crying or pain" (Revelation 21:4). Click here to see articles about the gospel.
Do you claim to be the only true church?
No. We believe the true church is the body of Christ, made up of all believers from every Christian denomination. We are thankful that God, by his grace, has called us to be part of the body of Christ.
How is the church governed?
The Worldwide Church of God has a hierarchical form of government. The church's administration is led by the pastor general, who is supported by a board of directors and an advisory council of elders. Each congregation is led by a pastor or pastoral team. Elders, deacons, deaconesses and lay members hold leadership roles under the pastor. Click here to see our study of church offices.
How is the church financed?
Members of the Worldwide Church of God support the work of the gospel through free-will tithes and offerings. We are grateful to our members and our extended family of fellow laborers for their generous support. We welcome and appreciate contributions to help us share the message of hope with others. The Worldwide Church of God, in accordance with responsible Christian stewardship, uses an external, independent auditing firm.
What does the Worldwide Church of God teach about evolution?
The Worldwide Church of God believes that the God of the Bible is the Creator. We believe in the inspired declaration of Genesis 1:1, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." We believe that God gave the scientific record for human instruction and knowledge and that there is no conflict between the Bible and science. We believe that when the Bible and scientific discovery appear to conflict, that one or the other has been misunderstood. Therefore, we do not deny the evidence from science that indicates a long history of life on this planet. We believe that only God can create life, and that the Creator has not revealed exactly how he has done this.
What does the Worldwide Church of God teach on homosexuality?
We understand the Bible to teach that the practice of homosexual behavior is a sin, as indicated by biblical prohibitions such as Romans 1:26-27 and 1 Corinthians 6:9. However, homosexual behavior is no more, or less, sinful than any other sin. All sinners are called to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. Any sinner who repents receives forgiveness and is cleansed by the Holy Spirit of all his or her sins.
Under the leadership of the Holy Spirit, the converted homosexual forsakes the gay lifestyle and enters into the new life in Christ. This does not necessarily mean that the homosexual becomes heterosexual. Rather, it means that, by the grace and power of God, he or she no longer engages in homosexual acts.
Accepting converted homosexuals as fellow Christians does not mean condoning their past sins. Christians should accept redeemed homosexuals into fellowship just as they accept any forgiven sinner — thankful that God has extended his mercy and grace to all humans.
What is your position on the distribution of condoms for AIDS prevention?
We agree with the statement of the National Association of Evangelicals, reprinted here…
The NAE Statement of Clarification in the Global War Against HIV/AIDS.
Because evangelicals recognize the power of the human nature that resides within all human beings, we sympathize with those who have attempted to curb the spread of HIV/AIDS through condom distribution. However, we accept the disappointing reality that condoms, which have been a cornerstone of the worlds’ efforts to fight AIDS, have failed to produce a decline in AIDS-related deaths or the spread of the HIV infection. As Edward Green of the Harvard School of Public Health reported to the congressional House Committee on Energy and Commerce in March 2003, “focusing exclusively on condom use is not a panacea for HIV prevention . . . . AIDS prevention is largely a behavioral problem that requires a behavioral solution.” Thus, as we evangelicals celebrate the signing of the largest AIDS prevention effort in history, we stress that resources will not be best spent in simply limiting the consequences of unchanged behavior, but in encouraging people to embrace the biblical exhortations to find inner strength through the life-changing power of Christ, and adopt a lifestyle reflective of biblical marriage and sexual discipline.
Moreover, acknowledging that true, lasting behavioral alterations can come through the ministry of the Holy Spirit in the lives of those who submit to Jesus Christ, the National Association of Evangelicals emphasizes that our greatest hope in limiting the spread of HIV/AIDS lies in spreading the life-giving message of Jesus Christ. We believe that the most significant gains in the war against AIDS will be made as we help people embrace the mental and emotional cleansing and refreshing found in a personal relationship with God.
The NAE reminds all evangelical ministries that natural attempts to curb the effects of worldly living will be greatly limited, but that our primary message of life in Christ, the power of His Holy Spirit to change hearts, and the freedom that comes from obedience to His Word is irreplaceable, and it is the primary way we can demonstrate compassion to the suffering. Thus, we remind all evangelical ministries to express the utmost compassion and care for those who are trapped by the natural consequences of their actions. The NAE rejoices in joining with humanitarians worldwide in fighting this deadly disease, and we pledge to stand against HIV/AIDS and its consequences in families and communities throughout the world.
What leadership roles do women fulfill in the Worldwide Church of God?
The church encourages women to contribute in leadership roles of every kind. Click here to see our study on women in leadership.
What does the Worldwide Church of God teach about abortion?
The Worldwide Church of God teaches that under all ordinary circumstances abortion is not a legitimate biblical or ethical choice and constitutes sin. When a mother's life is at stake, however, abortion is considered a legitimate biblical choice by the church. Members' choices about abortion in other extraordinary circumstances, such as rape or incest, are not considered a test of fellowship. The church recognizes the broken spiritual condition of human beings, and calls all sinners to repentance, forgiveness and redemption in Jesus' blood. The Worldwide Church of God does not engage in political movements on this issue; the church’s goal is to lead people to Christ for repentance and salvation. If church members make a private decision to become involved in a political movement, they do not represent the church, and the church teaches that they should remain at all times Christian in their approach.
What does the Worldwide Church of God teach about politics?
Voting and involvement in political activities is a private and personal matter. As Christians, we acknowledge that "our citizenship is in heaven" (Philippians 3:20). Yet, even while we belong to the heavenly kingdom, and our allegiance remains there, we still live in this world and should conduct ourselves as responsible citizens. Exercising the right to vote is one way citizens in democratic countries can participate meaningfully in their civic responsibilities (Romans 13:1, 7).
The Worldwide Church of God does not engage in politics. We believe Christians should respect the sensitivities, opinions and feelings of one another and therefore should not lobby within the church.
How does the Worldwide Church of God view racial prejudice and discrimination?
Racial prejudice and discrimination are unchristian. Jesus Christ taught that one of the great commandments is to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. When asked, "Who is my neighbor?" Jesus answered with a parable illustrating that we are to be neighbors to all, without discrimination (Luke 10:29-37).
The apostle Peter said, "I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts those from every nation who fear him and do what is right" (Acts 10:34-35). There is no racial prejudice with God. Paul said, "There is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all" (Colossians 3:11). God does not look at the outward appearance; he looks on the heart.
Christians must reject racism — indeed, they must reject all forms of bigotry, prejudice and hatred. Christians welcome the opportunity to live in harmony with all races. "If anyone says, `I love God,' yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother" (1 John 4:20-21).
How does the Worldwide Church of God view "speaking in tongues"?
The New Testament records instances in which God gave the gift of speaking in tongues to some people on certain occasions for the purpose of furthering the work of the gospel. In Acts 2, for example, the apostles "were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them" (verse 4). The tongues-speaking enabled the multinational crowd to hear the message of the gospel in their own native dialects (verses 6, 8, 11).
Paul listed tongues and other spiritual gifts as being "the work of one and the same Spirit," which God gives "to each one, just as he determines" (1 Corinthians 12:11).
Some may ask, "Are those who speak in tongues more spiritual or closer to God than those who do not speak in tongues?" Not necessarily. If those who speak in tongues don't have love, Paul said, they are useless noisemakers — no matter what language they speak (1 Corinthians 13:1). The gift of tongues, or any other gift, is not a special mark of spirituality. All the gifts of the Spirit are given as God decides. No one, no matter what gift one has, has any reason to be proud or to look down on others.
Paul did not forbid tongue-speaking in the church, but cautioned that "everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way" (1 Corinthians 14:40). He told the Corinthians not to do it during their meetings unless someone could interpret. Even if interpreters were there, only one person was to speak at a time.
The Worldwide Church of God does not believe that every modern manifestation of glossolalia or ecstatic speech is inspired by the Holy Spirit. Click here to see our booklet about speaking in tongues.
What does the Worldwide Church of God teach about baptism?
On the Day of Pentecost, Peter proclaimed: "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:38). Christians are to be baptized "in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 28:19).
Water baptism demonstrates a believer's repentance of personal sin and acceptance of Jesus Christ's atoning sacrifice. Baptism signifies a commitment to a new way of life governed by the spiritual laws of God, the example of Jesus Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. The Worldwide Church of God practices water baptism by immersion. Click here for an article about baptism.
I've heard that you teach salvation by works. Is this true?
No. The Worldwide Church of God once taught that Christians must ultimately be Sabbath-keepers to be saved, which amounted to salvation by works. But today, the church teaches that salvation is the gift of God, by his grace alone, through faith in Jesus Christ, not earned by personal merit or good works. At conversion Christians become "a new creation" in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). The Holy Spirit then carries on his work of renewal so that "inwardly we are being renewed day by day" (2 Corinthians 4:16).
We are not saved by works. Yet we are saved for good works (Ephesians 2:8-9). The Christian calling is to a life of faithful obedience to Jesus Christ.
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Do you teach universalism?
Universalism is a biblically unsound doctrine which says that in the end all souls, whether human, angelic or demonic, will be saved by God’s grace. Some universalists argue that repentance toward God and faith in Jesus Christ are not necessary. Universalists typically deny the doctrine of the Trinity, and many universalists are Unitarians. Contrary to universalism, the Bible is clear that there is salvation only in Jesus Christ (Acts 4:12). In Jesus Christ, who is God’s elect for our sakes, all humanity is elect, but that does not necessarily mean that all humans will ultimately accept God’s gift. God desires that all come to repentance, and he has created and redeemed humanity for true fellowship with him, but true fellowship can never constitute a forced relationship. We believe that in Christ, God makes gracious and just provision for all, even for those who at death appear not to have yet believed the gospel, but all who remain hostile to God remain unsaved by their own choice.
Do you believe in the devil?
Yes. The Bible reveals that Satan (the Adversary) is in rebellion against God. Through his influence, he generates discord, deception and disobedience (Ephesians 2:2; 2 Corinthians 4:4). He and his demons are, within God-ordained limits, the unseen rulers of this world. John, when writing about the devil, said the "whole world is under the control of the evil one" (1 John 5:19).
Jesus Christ came in human flesh "to destroy the devil's work" (1 John 3:8). He "shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death — that is, the devil" (Hebrews 2:14).
Christians can resist the influence of the devil by relying on the divine power of God. Peter urges us to resist the devil, "standing firm in the faith" (1 Peter 5:9).
Do you believe in the return of Jesus Christ?
We believe in Jesus' promise to return to earth to judge and reign over all nations. The Bible says his second coming will be visible, and in power and glory (Revelation 1:7). This event is the hope of the church, because it inaugurates the resurrection of the dead and the inheritance of the saints. Click here for our booklet on this subject.
What do you teach about the end of the world?
At his second coming, Jesus Christ will bring judgment to the nations and end the present age of human suffering and confusion. He will inaugurate the new and glorious age of eternal peace and happiness.
Hasn't your church undergone a lot of change?
Yes, and we praise God for his grace toward us. Jesus promised the Holy Spirit would guide his people into all truth (John 16:13). Peter urged Christians to "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 3:18). Accordingly, the church needs to be prepared to make whatever changes necessary as the Holy Spirit opens its understanding of the Word of God. Click here to see a history of our changes.
Is it necessary that Christians belong to a church and go to church services?
Yes, we believe it is. God calls sinners into the fellowship of the saints, which is the body of Christ. Regardless of denomination or choice of Christian congregation, the spiritual nurture of fellow Christians is essential for a faithful life in Christ. It is from Christ that "the whole body [is] joined and held together by every supporting ligament . . . as each part does its work" (Ephesians 4:16).
Speaking of the importance of the church in the lives of Christians, Paul wrote: "It was [Christ] who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ" (verses 11-13).
The church provides the necessary framework for the nurture of each member of the body of Christ. By working together in unity, the church can fulfill its responsibility to Christ of making disciples of all nations and teaching them his commands.
Who can attend your services?
Anyone interested in learning more about Jesus Christ and the good news of salvation through faith in him is welcome to attend our services.
Do you have a congregation near me?
The Worldwide Church of God has ordained ministers and local congregations throughout North America and many other parts of the world. We probably have a congregation near you.
If you are interested in contacting a minister or in visiting one of our congregations, please feel free to write to us or contact us by telephone. Most of our congregations and pastors are listed on this web site. If you do not find one near you, please contact the nearest office.
Copyright © 1998 Worldwide Church of God
