A Pentecostal denomination that shares roots with the Church of God (Cleveland, TN) but separated in 1923, emphasizing holiness, Spirit baptism, and identity as a 'Bible organization.'
The Church of God of Prophecy shares its origins with the Church of God (Cleveland, TN) — both trace their roots to a small Holiness revival in the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee in the 1880s and 1890s. In 1923, the two bodies separated over questions of church governance, with Ambrose Jessup Tomlinson leading the group that became the Church of God of Prophecy.
Theologically, the Church of God of Prophecy stands in the Wesleyan-Pentecostal tradition, teaching entire sanctification as a second work of grace, Spirit baptism with the evidence of tongues, and divine healing. The denomination has historically placed a strong emphasis on its identity as a 'Bible organization' — meaning that all its practices and governance are derived directly from Scripture.
The Church of God of Prophecy maintains a global presence in over 130 countries and is known for its emphasis on unity, racial reconciliation, and a distinctive banner that flies at its congregations worldwide.
The Church of God of Prophecy is distinguished from the Church of God (Cleveland, TN) by its history of separation and its emphasis on being a 'Bible organization.' It shares the same Wesleyan-Pentecostal theology but has a distinct identity and governance structure.
Expressive and Pentecostal — praise and worship, prayer for healing, speaking in tongues, and the gifts of the Spirit.
Roots in 1886; separated from Church of God (Cleveland, TN) in 1923.
Its distinctive banner, its emphasis on racial reconciliation, and its shared origins with the Church of God (Cleveland, TN).