An offshoot of the Way International, criticized for their heterodox theology
Religion: Christianity
Denomination: Nondenominational
Founded: 1978
Location: Tipp City, Ohio, United States
Website: cffm.org
Christian Family Fellowship, an offshoot of The Way International, is a controversial religious group that has attracted attention and criticism for its unconventional beliefs, particularly regarding the deity of Jesus and the doctrine of the Trinity. Based in Tipp City, Ohio, this group considers itself a “studying, teaching, and fellowship ministry,” focusing on a literal interpretation of the scriptures to understand Jesus Christ as “the way, the truth, and the life”. However, it has also been labeled a non-Christian cult by some due to its rejection of the deity of Christ, a foundational doctrine for most of Christianity.
One of the central figures in the development of Christian Family Fellowship’s theology is Victor Paul Wierwille, the founder of The Way International, who is known for his book “Jesus Christ is not God.” This work attempts to reinterpret key biblical passages, notably John 1:1, to argue against the traditional understanding of Jesus as divine. Wierwille’s teachings have significantly influenced the group’s beliefs, leading to a strong stance against Trinitarianism. The group argues that the concept of the Trinity, which it views as polytheistic and intertwined with Greek religion and philosophy, is a misinterpretation of the biblical text. They instead promote a unitarian view of God, where Jesus is seen as a created being and not co-eternal with God the Father.
The Christian Family Fellowship holds several key doctrines that diverge from orthodox Christianity, including the belief that Jesus is a created being, the Holy Spirit is a force (not a person), and the dead are not conscious. The group also emphasizes the practices of speaking in tongues as evidence of faith, the reality of the devil, and a reinterpretation of hell as merely the grave.
Critics of the Christian Family Fellowship, including The Berean Call and CARM, argue that the group’s rejection of the deity of Christ and the personhood of the Holy Spirit places it outside the bounds of Christian orthodoxy. The debate over these theological issues highlights the broader discussion within Christianity about the nature of Jesus, the interpretation of scripture, and the definition of what constitutes a Christian faith community.
Despite the controversy surrounding its beliefs, Christian Family Fellowship continues to operate, promoting its vision of Christianity through teaching, fellowship, and the study of scripture. The group’s stance on doctrinal issues remains a point of contention in the wider Christian community, reflecting the ongoing challenge of defining faith and orthodoxy in a diverse religious landscape.
image via CFFM
