What is the Church of God in Anderson, Indiana?

Historical Background

The Church of God (Anderson, Indiana) traces its roots to the late 19th century. One key figure in its founding was Daniel Sidney Warner, who, around 1880–1881, began preaching a message of unity and holiness based on a deep reliance upon Scripture rather than formal denominational structures. Early followers of this movement believed they were part of what they called a “reformation of the Reformation,” affirming the holiness tradition while emphasizing the unity of all believers in Christ.

The movement found a focal point in Anderson, Indiana, within a few decades of its start. The city became a hub for publishing (Warner Press) and educational initiatives (eventually Anderson University, established in 1917). The decision not to adopt a denominational name like “Warnerites” or similar grew out of a desire to stay anchored in their interpretation of “the church” as described in the New Testament, especially drawing from passages such as 1 Corinthians 12:27: “Now you are the body of Christ, and each of you is a member of it.”

Theological Foundation

The Church of God in Anderson upholds the authority of the Bible as the inspired Word of God. Many within this movement point to verses like 2 Timothy 3:16: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” They see Scripture as the primary guide for faith and practice, placing it above any ecclesiastical council or creed.

Members typically hold a Holiness theology, emphasizing the believer’s call to live a sanctified life through the power of the Holy Spirit. Though theological emphases have evolved over time, central to their teachings has been a call to holiness, grounded in passages such as 1 Peter 1:16: “Be holy, because I am holy.” They interpret this as the believer’s privilege and calling, made possible through Christ’s sacrifice and Holy Spirit empowerment.

Distinctive Emphasis on Unity

A notable hallmark of the Church of God (Anderson) tradition is its emphasis on Christian unity. Early leaders argued from John 17:20–21, where Jesus prays “that all of them may be one,” as a guiding imperative. They endeavored to abandon denominational labels and see themselves simply as part of the one Church—Christ’s body—existing beyond barriers of membership rolls or denominational structures. This does not necessarily mean they claim exclusivity; rather, they emphasize that any follower of Christ is welcome in fellowship.

Worship and Practices

Worship services typically include congregational singing (hymns and modern music), Scripture reading, teaching, and prayer. Local congregations often prioritize evangelism and missions. The Lord’s Supper (communion) and believer’s baptism (by immersion, pouring, or sprinkling depending on local custom) are recognized as biblical ordinances. Members look to Matthew 28:19–20 as the Great Commission, underscoring a responsibility to “make disciples of all nations.”

Regarding leadership, there is often a congregational governance model with pastors and local boards or councils providing direction. Churches typically join the broader Church of God network for missions, publications, fellowship, and support but maintain a measure of autonomy.

Relationship to the Broader Church

Though referred to as the Church of God (Anderson, Indiana), the movement does not claim to be a separate denominational entity in the strict sense. Early leaders viewed denominationalism as a barrier to Christian unity, believing instead that all true believers in Christ comprise the body of Christ. Ephesians 4:4–6 undergirds this position: “There is one body and one Spirit…one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.”

Social and Global Engagement

Over the years, the Church of God (Anderson) has formed global missions programs, sending missionaries around the world and often establishing educational institutions that combine evangelistic outreach with social services. Because of the focus on holiness and discipleship, local congregations typically engage in service ministries—feeding programs, disaster relief, community outreaches—to demonstrate the love of Christ in practical ways (see James 2:15–17).

Educational Institutions

Anderson University, a liberal arts institution established by the Church of God movement in 1917, continues to serve as an educational center for pastoral training, theological study, and other academic disciplines. Though the Church of God has no official creed beyond the Bible, the faculty and curriculum at these institutions commonly reflect the Holiness-Unity ethos, merging academic rigor with a call to practical Christian living.

View on Scripture and Inspiration

Leaders and members often highlight the historical reliability of the biblical manuscripts, referencing the substantial manuscript evidence available today. They see consistency in both the Old and New Testaments, from the earliest creation narratives to the resurrection accounts of Jesus Christ. Echoing the tradition that “the word of our God stands forever” (Isaiah 40:8), they uphold Scripture’s claims and trust its historical accounts.

Contemporary Impact and Future Outlook

Today, the Church of God (Anderson) continues its commitment to evangelism, Christian unity, and holiness. While distinct in its emphasis on transcending denominational divisions, congregations seek cooperation with other Christian traditions whenever possible. They encourage believers to remain faithful to the Great Commission, serve their communities locally, and carry the gospel globally.

As new challenges emerge in modern culture, Church of God leaders and congregations rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance (John 16:13) and return consistently to Scripture for instruction, correction, and hope. They remain rooted in their Holiness tradition and strive to cultivate unity among all followers of Christ, staying true to the movement’s founding vision that centers on a life of devotion, community fellowship, and reliance on the plain teaching of the Word of God.