Введение
Неденоминационная христианская церковь, базирующаяся в Соединенных Штатах.
Non denominational Christian church based in the United States
Объединенная Церковь Бога, Международная Ассоциация (UCGIA или просто UCG) – это нетринитарная христианская церковь, базирующаяся в Соединенных Штатах. UCG именует себя "Объединенная Церковь Бога, Международная Ассоциация", при этом последние три слова выделены курсивом, чтобы отличать UCG от местных общин и деноминаций с похожими названиями. UCG была организована в 1995 году церквями, ранее входившими в состав Всемирной Церкви Бога, и придерживается доктрин и верований, схожих с теми, что преподавал Герберт У. Армстронг и бывшая Всемирная Церковь Бога.
The United Church of God, an International Association (UCGIA or simply UCG) is a nontrinitarian Christian church based in the United States. The UCG calls itself "The United Church of God, an International Association", with the last three words italicized in order to differentiate the UCG from local congregations and denominations which bear similar names. The UCG was organized in 1995 by churches that had been part of the Worldwide Church of God, and holds doctrines and beliefs similar to those taught by Herbert W. Armstrong and the former Worldwide Church of God.
Правительство
УКГ управляется советом из 12 человек, называемым "Советом старейшин", который избирается оплачиваемыми служителями и мирянами-служителями церкви, составляющими "Генеральную конференцию старейшин". Генеральная конференция старейшин собирается раз в год в мае для выполнения таких задач, как утверждение бюджета, оперативное и стратегическое планирование, избрание членов церковного совета и участие в семинарах. Совет действует как руководящий орган международной ассоциации и несет ответственность за формирование политики и доктрины Церкви. Совет собирается четыре раза в год. Международная штаб-квартира УКГ называется "Home Office" и расположена в Милфорде, штат Огайо (пригород Цинциннати). Этот офис возглавляет президент УКГ, являющийся официальным представителем церкви и ответственным за административное управление повседневной деятельностью, такой как управление оплачиваемым служением церкви и издание литературы и других публикаций. Президент назначается Советом старейшин и может быть отстранен от должности Советом старейшин. Совет старейшин должен поддерживать доверительные отношения с Генеральной конференцией старейшин, а члены Совета старейшин избираются по ротационной системе, при которой четыре из двенадцати человек переизбираются или заменяются каждый год.
The UCG is governed by a 12 man board called the "Council of Elders" that is elected by the church's paid and lay ministers, which form the "General Conference of Elders." The General Conference of Elders meets once a year in May to perform tasks including budget approval, operational planning, strategic planning, electing members of the church council, and participation in seminars. The council acts as the governing body for the international association and is responsible for forming policy and doctrine for the Church. The council meets four times a year. The UCG's international headquarters is referred to as the "Home Office" and is located in Milford, Ohio (a suburb of Cincinnati). This office is headed by the UCG's president, who is the church's official spokesperson and is charged with administrative responsibility over day to day functions, such as managing the church's paid ministry and producing literature or other publications. The president is appointed by the Council of Elders (COE) and can be removed from his appointment by the COE. The COE must remain in the confidence of the General Conference of Elders, and COE members serve on a rotating system of election wherein four of twelve men are up for re election or replacement in any given year.
Основные убеждения
UCG следует и верит во многие основные доктринальные принципы христианских церквей, такие как вдохновение Писания, телесное воскресение Христа и три обряда крещения, и согласна с протестантской теологией относительно принципов sola scriptura и того, что оправдание является даром, свободно дарованным Богом. Однако ее учения отличаются от общепринятого христианского (католического, православного и протестантского) богословия в ряде ключевых областей:
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Природа Бога — Существуют два различных, не сотворенных и вечных Божественных Существ, правящих творением: Бог Отец и Слово, которое стало плотью в лице Иисуса Христа. Они считаются "едиными" во вере, направлении и цели, подобно тому, как члены Церкви объединены, оставаясь отдельными физическими существами. Иисус есть Бог и Сын Божий, и Он – Творец всего через руководство Отца. Вместе они составляют "Божью Семью". Святой Дух – это преобразующая сила Бога, а не личность. Эта нетринитарная доктрина была осуждена Никейским собором в 325 году н.э.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Библия — Ветхий и Новый Заветы сохраняют Божье откровение человечеству и представляют собой "полную выраженную волю Божью для человечества". В соответствии со 2 Тимофею 3:16, все Писание вдохновлено Богом. UCG также считает, что Писание безошибочно в своем первоначальном тексте и является высшим авторитетом в жизни человека. Нет доктрины относительно типа перевода, который следует использовать.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Сатана Дьявол — Сатана – главный противник Бога и, следовательно, человека. Он – обманщик и обвинитель человека, которому Бог временно дал ограниченную власть над миром.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Человечество — Люди созданы по образу Бога с потенциалом стать детьми в Божьей Семье. Человек был создан из праха земли и получил дыхание жизни от Бога. Люди смертны и не обладают бессмертной душой.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Грех и Закон Божий — Грех определяется как нарушение закона Божьего. Грех, принесенный в человечество в Эдемском саду, удерживает дар Божий вечной жизни от человечества. Только через прощение грехов, по благодати Божьей, человек получит вечную жизнь. Однако, несмотря на Божью благодать, открытое отвержение закона Божьего и возвращение к греховному образу жизни в конечном итоге приведут к смерти.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Жертвоприношение Иисуса Христа — Жертвоприношение Иисуса Христа является основой христианства. Иисус отдал Свою жизнь за все человечество, чтобы мы могли жить, освобожденные от наказания за грех.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Три дня и три ночи — В соответствии со Своим пророчеством, Христос должен был воскреснуть после трех дней и трех ночей, буквально. UCG утверждает, что Христос умер в среду днем и воскрес незадолго до захода солнца в субботу.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Покаяние — Покаяние является важной частью обращения и необходимо для истинного обращения в Божью Семью.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Водное крещение — Объединенная Церковь Бога считает крещение важным обрядом для всех христиан. Полное погружение – единственная форма водного крещения, принимаемая UCG. Крещению должны предшествовать вера и покаяние, и оно представляет собой смерть верующего и новую жизнь во Христе Иисусе. Крещение рассматривается как внешнее выражение внутреннего обращения. Крещение младенцев настоятельно не рекомендуется, поскольку крестят только тех, кто в полной мере понимает и ценит символику крещения. После церемонии крещения следует "возложение рук", когда верующий, как полагают, получает Святого Духа.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Субботний день — Субботний день, как день, установленный Богом, был установлен при сотворении, дан Израилю в Десяти заповедях и предназначен для всего человечества. Члены освящают субботу, поклоняясь и отдыхая в седьмой день.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Пасха — Члены UCG отмечают пасхальную трапезу 14-го дня Авива, подражая последней трапезе Христа. Пасхальная трапеза, хлеб и вино, рассматриваются как напоминание о жертве Христа. Пасхальная церемония, состоящая из хлеба, вина и омовения ног, проводится один раз в год.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Вера относительно праздников и святых дней Бога — UCG отмечает семь ежегодных праздников и семь ежегодных святых дней (ежегодных суббот): Пасху, праздник Пресных хлебов, праздник Пятидесятницы, праздник Труб, День Искупления, праздник Скиний и Последний Великий День.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Законы о пище — Согласно учению UCG, законы о пище Божьи были установлены до образования Израиля и поэтому все еще обязательны для христиан сегодня. Доказательством их непрерывной важности, как полагают, служит пример Иисуса и Его учеников, воздерживавшихся от библейски нечистой пищи.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Военная служба и война — UCG считает, что христиане запрещены заповедями Божьими от лишения жизни. Христиане рассматриваются как призванные из этого мира, имеющие гражданство на небесах, и им не рекомендуется слишком тесно участвовать в мирских делах. Иоанна 18:36 часто используется для защиты этой позиции: "Иисус сказал: 'Царство Мое не от мира сего. Если бы Царство Мое было от мира сего, то слуги Мои боролись бы'". Кроме того, поскольку большинство армий требуют от вас отказаться от определенных прав, UCG настоятельно не рекомендует членам поступать на военную службу и добровольно лишать себя свободы, чтобы служить Богу наилучшим образом.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Обетования Аврааму — UCG считает, что люди западно-европейского происхождения, в основном из первоначальных британских колоний и Соединенных Штатов, являются прямыми физическими потомками Десяти Затерянных Колен северного царства древнего Израиля, в то время как исторические евреи (и современный Израиль) являются потомками древнего южного царства Иуды. Эта вера не используется для утверждения расового или этнического превосходства, а исключительно для толкования пророчеств о конце времен, которые, как считается, направлены на Соединенные Штаты и Европу.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Цель Божья для человечества — Цель человечества – подготовить нас к тому, чтобы стать частью Божьей Семьи. UCG считает, что христиане в конечном итоге рождаются как дети в Семье Божьей и при воскресении станут "духовно рожденными божественными существами, которые являются частью Элохима, вселенской правящей Семьи Бога" (см. Обожествление (христианство)).
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Церковь — Церковь определяется как тело верующих, получивших и направляемых Святым Духом. UCG подчеркивает важность имени Церкви Божьей как идентификатора истинной Церкви Божьей.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Десятина — В соответствии с писаниями Ветхого Завета, UCG побуждает членов десятиться, что в греческом и еврейском языках означало "давать или брать десятую часть всего прироста" (не обязательно десятую часть от общего дохода). Членам также рекомендуется откладывать вторую десятину, дополнительные 10 процентов, для собственного личного использования при соблюдении ежегодных религиозных праздников Церкви, особенно праздника Скиний.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Воскресения — При возвращении Христа те, кто жил во Христе, будут воскрешены к духовной жизни. Тем, кто не знает или не понимает истины Библии при жизни, будет дано время узнать эти учения после "Второго Воскресения" к новой физической жизни. После повторной жизни в Миллениальном мире под Царством Божьим те, кто продолжает отвергать Святого Духа Божьего и образ жизни, будут уничтожены после "Третьего Воскресения" вместе с бывшими верующими, которые отвернулись от Бога. Они будут уничтожены в третьем воскресении (в "огненном воскресении") в Геенне огненной, вместе с Сатаной и его демонами.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Возвращение Иисуса Христа — UCG учит "личному, видимому, предмиллениальному возвращению Господа Иисуса Христа". Они верят, что Иисус учил о приходе буквального земного Царства и что люди, которые "спасены", не сразу пойдут на небеса после смерти, а будут воскрешены в последний день и вечно жить и царствовать с Иисусом Христом на земле после Его Второго пришествия. UCG также утверждает, что конечным местом назначения нераскаявшихся злодеев является не вечные мучения, а уничтожение или окончательное разрушение.
The UCG follows and believes in many of the basic doctrinal principles of Christian churches, such as the inspiration of the scriptures, Christ's bodily resurrection, and the three ordinances of baptism, and agrees with Protestant theology regarding the tenets of sola scriptura and that justification is a gift given freely by God. However, its teachings differ from mainstream Christian (Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant) theology in a number of key areas:
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Nature of God — There are two distinct, uncreated, and eternal divine Beings presiding over the creation: God the Father and the Word, who became flesh as Jesus Christ. They are considered "one" in belief, direction, and purpose, much the same way members of the Church are united while remaining separate physical beings. Jesus is both God and the Son of God, and is the Creator of all things through the direction of the Father. Together they make up "the God family." The Holy Spirit is the transforming power of God rather than a person. This non Trinitarian doctrine was condemned by the Council of Nicea in 325AD. The Bible — Both the Old and New Testaments preserve God's divine revelation to humanity and are his "complete expressed will to humanity." In agreement with 2 Timothy 3:16, all scripture is inspired by God. The UCG also holds that scripture is infallible in its original writing and the final authority in a person's life. There is no doctrine regarding the type of translation one must use. Satan the Devil — Satan is the ultimate adversary of God and, by extension, man. He is the deceiver and accuser of man who has temporarily been given limited power over the world by God. Humanity — Humans are created in the image of God with the potential to be children in God's family. Mankind was formed from the dust of the ground and given the breath of life by God. Humans are mortal, and do not possess an immortal soul. Sin and God's Law — Sin is defined as transgression of God's law. Sin, introduced to humanity in the garden of Eden, withholds God's gift of eternal life from mankind. Only through the forgiveness of sins, by God's grace, will a person receive eternal life. However, despite God's grace, open rejection of God's law and a return to sinful ways will ultimately lead to death. The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ — The sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the foundation of Christianity. Jesus gave His life for all mankind so that we might live, freed from the penalty of sin. Three Days and Three Nights — In accordance with his prophecy concerning himself, Christ would be raised after three days and three nights, literally. The UCG holds that Christ died on Wednesday afternoon and was raised shortly before sunset on Saturday. Repentance — Repentance is a major part of conversion and is necessary for true conversion into God's family. Water Baptism — The United Church of God holds baptism as an important ordinance for all Christians. Complete immersion is the only form of water baptism accepted by the UCG. Baptism must be preceded by faith and repentance and represents a believer's death and newness of life in Christ Jesus. Baptism is considered an outward expression of an inward conversion. Infant baptism is strongly discouraged, as only those who fully understand and appreciate what baptism symbolizes are baptized. The baptism ceremony is followed by the “laying on of hands” where a believer is believed to receive the Holy Spirit. The Sabbath Day — The Sabbath day, as a day set aside by God, was established at creation, given to Israel in the Ten Commandments, and made for all mankind. Members hallow the Sabbath by worshipping and resting on the Seventh day. Passover — members of the UCG observe the Passover meal every 14th of Abib, imitating Christ's last supper. The Passover meal, the bread and the wine, are viewed as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice. The Passover ceremony, which consists of the bread, the wine, and foot washing, is observed once a year. Belief concerning the Festivals and Holy Days of God — The UCG observes seven annual Festivals and seven annual Holy Days (annual Sabbaths): Passover, Feast of Unleavened Bread, Feast of Pentecost, Feast of Trumpets, Day of Atonement, Feast of Tabernacles, and The Last Great Day. Food Laws — According to the teaching of the UCG, God's food laws were established before the formation of Israel and are therefore still binding to Christians today. Evidence of their continuing importance is believed to be found in the example of Jesus' and His disciples' abstinence of biblically unclean meats. Military Service and War — The UCG holds that Christians are forbidden by the commandments of God from taking a life. Christians are viewed as being called out of this world, having their citizenship in heaven, and discouraged from participating too closely in worldly affairs. John 18:36 is often used to defend this position, "Jesus stated, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants fight.'" Also, because most militaries require you to sign away certain rights, The UCG strongly dissuades members from enlisting and voluntarily giving away their freedom to serve God to the best of their ability. Promises to Abraham — The UCG holds that people of Western European descent, primarily the original British colonies and the United States, are direct physical descendants of the Ten Lost Tribes of the northern kingdom of ancient Israel, whereas the historical Jews (and modern day Israel) are descendants of the ancient southern kingdom of Judah. This belief is not used to assert racial or ethnic superiority, but solely to interpret End Time prophecies which are believed to be directed at the United States and Europe. God’s Purpose for Mankind — The purpose of mankind is to prepare us to become part of God’s family. The UCG holds that Christians are ultimately begotten as children in the Family of God and will at their resurrection become "spirit born divine beings who are part of Elohim, the universe ruling family of God (see Divinization (Christian))." The Church — The church is defined as the body of believers that have received, and are being guided by, the Holy Spirit. The UCG stresses the importance of the name Church of God and identifier of God's true church. Tithing — In accordance with Old Testament writings, the UCG encourages members to tithe, which in Greek and Hebrew meant “to give or take the tenth of all increase” (not necessarily a tenth of total income). Members are also taught to set aside a second tithe, an additional 10 percent for their own personal use in observing the church's annual religious festivals, particularly the Feast of Tabernacles. Resurrections — At Christ's return, those who have lived in Christ will be resurrected to spiritual life. Those who do not know or understand the truth of the Bible during their lifetimes will be given time to learn these teachings after the "Second Resurrection" to a new physical life. After living again in the Millennial world under God's Kingdom, those who continue to reject God's Holy Spirit and way of life will be annihilated after the "Third Resurrection" along with unrepentant former believers who had turned away from God. They are destroyed in the third resurrection (the "resurrection of fire") in the Lake of Fire, along with Satan and his demons. Jesus Christ's Return — The UCG teaches a “personal, visible, premillennial return of the Lord Jesus Christ.” They believe Jesus taught the coming of a literal earthly Kingdom and that people who are 'saved' will not immediately go to heaven upon dying, but will be raised on the last day and live and rule eternally with Jesus Christ on earth after his second coming. The UCG also asserts that the final destination of the unrepentant wicked is not everlasting torture, but annihilation or permanent destruction.
Другие доктрины
Умеренное употребление алкоголя допускается, но УЦГ предостерегает от злоупотребления им. Вера в реставрационизм. Как и многие церкви в движении реставрационизма, УЦГ считает, что ряд современных основных христианских учений возник в результате доктринального искажения под влиянием греко-римской философии, гностицизма, антисемитизма и неточных переводов, произошедших на ранних этапах истории церкви. Большая часть доктрины УЦГ, отличающейся от общепринятого христианства, является результатом попыток отделить эти влияния и традиции от того, что считается верованиями и практикой Иисуса Христа и первоапостольской церкви. УЦГ полагает, что Римско-католическая церковь и большинство протестантских деноминаций сегодня ошибочно смешали различные языческие доктрины и практики. Например, УЦГ учит, что древние языческие корни традиционных христианских праздников (особенно Рождества, Дня святого Валентина, Пасхи и Хэллоуина) делают их неуместными для истинных христиан.
Alcohol consumption in moderation is permitted but the UCG teaches against the misuse of alcohol. Belief in Restorationism. Like many churches in the Restorationist movement, the UCG believes that a number of today's mainstream Christian teachings resulted from doctrinal corruption under the influence of Greco Roman philosophy, Gnosticism, Anti Semitism, and mistranslation which occurred early in the history of the church. Much of UCG doctrine that is distinct from mainstream Christianity is the outgrowth of an effort to separate these influences and traditions from what is believed to be the beliefs and practices of Jesus Christ and the original Apostolic church. The UCG holds that the Roman Catholic church and most Protestant denominations today have mistakenly syncretized various pagan doctrines and practices. For example, the UCG teaches that the ancient pagan origins of traditional Christian celebrations (especially Christmas, Valentine's Day, Easter, and Halloween) render them inappropriate for true Christians.
Библейский колледж Амбассадор
Ambassador Bible College (ABC) – это интенсивная девятимесячная образовательная программа, сфокусированная на изучении Библии, христианской жизни и основополагающих доктрин Объединенной Церкви Бога. Программа призвана готовить молодых людей к лидерству и служению, а также начинать их подготовку к обязанности обучать будущие поколения. Учебный план всесторонне изучает доктрины и систематически проводит студентов через книги Библии.
Ambassador Bible College (ABC) is an intensive nine month educational program focusing on the Bible, Christian living and the fundamental doctrines of the United Church of God. The program seeks to prepare young adults for leadership and service, and to begin preparing them for the duty of teaching future generations. The curriculum thoroughly examines doctrine and leads students systematically through the books of the Bible.