Fundamental Beliefs Of Foursquare Churches In Las Vegas

By Catherine Snyder


Many people think of Sin City as being a place where everyone stays up all night gambling, drinking, and taking in flamboyant headliners in spectacular shows. This is only a small part of the makeup of this town however. Many permanent residents rarely visit the casinos on the strip or work in the clubs. Most have jobs outside that industry, make monthly mortgage payments, worry about their children and go to church most Sundays. A certain percentage are faithful members of the foursquare churches in Las Vegas.

Not everyone is familiar with this organization, but it has been in existence for nearly one hundred years. It was founded by the famous evangelist, Aimee Semple McPherson. She was well known in California for her healing powers and eventually started the Angelus Church. She and her followers believed that Jesus embodied a Baptizer, a Healer, a Savior, and the King to come. They took the church to the streets and ministered to the hungry and needy.

The logo interests many people not familiar with the organization. It is based on a vision of the prophet Ezekiel when God was revealed to him as a lion, an eagle, an ox, and a man. Believers see them as the four faces of Christ. Over time these symbols have changed to what most people recognize today: the dove, the cup, the cross and the crown.

This Pentecostal denomination is an evangelical, New Testament based ministry with chapters throughout the world. They believe in the word as relayed in the Bible and that straying from its foundation leads to error. The religion recognizes other denominations and welcomes all who desire a closer relationship with Jesus Christ. They believe in water baptism and the forgiveness that comes with acceptance of Christ as the Savior.

Ministering actively in their community is vital to their beliefs. Congregations are encouraged to worship formally, pray regularly, witness to others, and use spiritual language. They also believe in the tradition family unit. Inviting others to join them in their worship services and open themselves to the word of God is actively encouraged.

The organization has a four stage vision for their congregations that begins with the pioneer stage. This is essentially bringing disciples together to create a community of believers locally. It progresses to the leadership phase where individuals are trained to lead their congregations and become leaders in the community. The church phase comes next. The goal is to build on local success and multiply into other areas. Movement is the final stage in which believers take their ministry into other cultures.

Its mission objectives are in keeping with the four stages. They encourage and help individuals develop leadership skills and become active participants in issues that impact their local community. Believers actively solicit individuals to visit their services and learn more about their beliefs. The ultimate goal is a transformational ministry.

Members of the congregations welcome anyone who is genuinely interested in having a closer relationship with Christ to come to church and worship with them. It doesn't matter if you have already been saved or are still searching for answers.




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