A unique Christian denomination emphasizing baptism, speaking in tongues, and Sabbath observance.
Religion: Christianity
Denomination: Non-denominational
Founder: Paul Wei (Wei Enbo)
Founded: 1917
Location: China (originally), now has branches worldwide
Size: Approximately 1.5 million members
Other Names: Church of the True Jesus, True Jesus Church International
Website: truejesuschurch.org
The True Jesus Church (TJC) is a unique and distinct Pentecostal denomination that finds its roots in the early 20th century in Beijing, China. Established in 1917 by Paul Wei, also known as Wei Enbo, this new religious movement claims a direct restoration of the apostolic church through visions and divine interventions. Paul Wei’s foundational experience included a vision where he was instructed to be baptized facedown in a river, after which he purportedly encountered Jesus Christ and was given spiritual armor. This event underscored the church’s emphasis on direct encounters with the divine, miracles, and a unique baptism practice.
Central to the church’s beliefs are several distinct practices and doctrines that set it apart from other Christian denominations. Among these are the insistence on baptism by immersion in natural living water, such as rivers, seas, or springs, with the participant facing down. This practice is deemed essential for salvation, along with the reception of the Holy Spirit, evidenced by speaking in tongues. The TJC also observes the Sabbath on Saturday, practices foot washing as a sacrament, and holds specific views on the end times and the immediacy of Christ’s second coming.
The church has expanded globally since its inception, reaching various parts of Asia, North America, Europe, and beyond. The international spread of the TJC began earnestly after its establishment in Taiwan in 1926, further extending to other continents in the latter half of the 20th century. Despite facing persecution, especially in its country of origin due to its independent stance from the state-sanctioned Three-Self Church, the TJC has grown to claim approximately 1.5 million followers worldwide by 2020.
The True Jesus Church posits itself as the restored true church, emphasizing a return to apostolic purity and practices. This includes a focus on living according to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, as well as experiencing the power of the Holy Spirit through miracles and signs, which they believe validates their claim as the continuation of the apostolic church. The church’s mission revolves around spreading the gospel of salvation to all, making disciples of Jesus, and preparing for the Lord’s return.
image via Facebook
