This denomination sprang from the German Reformed Church, and the members are popularly known as "Winebrennerians." They agree with Baptists on the mode and subjects of Baptism; regarding believers as the only Scriptural subjects, and immersion as the only Scriptural mode. They dissent from regular Baptists on Calvinism, being strongly Arminian in their doctrinal views, approaching more nearly the Methodists than to Baptists, or to the Presbyterians. They practice feet-washing generally, but not regarding it as an ordinance in the same positive sense as baptism and the Lord's Supper, they do not hold it as a church ordinance, and therefore do not regard its non-observance as sufficient cause for discipline. Its general observance is the result of the strength of sentiment in the denomination in its favor, rather than of any law. Their church government is somewhat similar to that of the Methodists, excepting that they have no Bishops. They have local Elderships, and a General Eldership, the latter owning and controlling all property, superintending printing, having charge of the publication of hymn-books, and all periodical literature.

      They take their popular name from their founder, Rev. John Winebrenner. This divine became, in 1820, pastor of the German Reformed church in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. His ministry was remarkable for the extensive revivals of religion that occurred under it. These were not confined to Harrisburg, but, as he preached and labored in all the region round about, they were shared by numerous other German Reformed churches. As revivals of religion were new and almost unheard-of events in those days, especially among [515] the German people of that region, this work of God did not fail to excite wrath and opposition. This state of affairs lasted five years, and then resulted in a separation from the German Reformed Church. About this time (1825), more extensive revivals began in the neighboring towns, and several hundred conversions were reported. During those revival scenes the mind of Mr. Winebrenner underwent a radical change as to the true nature of a Scriptural organization of churches, and his sentiments were accepted by many who had been awakened under his preaching. This led to the call for a convention to consider the duty of a separate organization. This convention met at Harrisburg in October, 1830, and resulted in the formation of "The Church of God," agreeing on the great subject of salvation through Christ, with all evangelical Christians, and holding those peculiar views we have stated.

      At the last Triennial General Eldership progress was reported on the erection of the educational institution at Findley, Ohio. A number of missions reported on the condition of the "Church" in Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, Kansas, Texas, and the Indian Territory. They decided to co-operate with the Freewill Baptists in their foreign missions. Resolutions were adopted requesting the brethren to oppose the desecration of the Lord's day by the publication of Sunday papers, theatrical performances, railroad excursions, and the opening of beer-gardens and places of amusement. In 1890 the denomination was represented in 14 States and in the Indian Territory, and had 479 organizations, 338 churches and 129 halls used for religious purposes, 22,511 members, and church property valued at $643,185. Its greatest strength was in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana, which together had more than one-half the total members.

[RLL 515-516]

      The electronic version of "The Church of God" was first published in Rays of Light from All Lands: The Bible and Beliefs of Mankind, ed. E. C. Towne, A. J. Canfield, and George Hagar (New York: Gay Brothers and Company, 1895), pp. 515-516.

      Pagination in the electronic version has been represented by placing the page number in brackets following the last complete word on the printed page.

      Addenda and corrigenda are earnestly solicited.

Ernie Stefanik
Derry, PA

Created 31 December 1998.
Updated 9 July 2003.