Understanding What The Foursquare Churches In Las Vegas Teach

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.

This organization has a history that dates back to the nineteen twenties when the evangelist, Aimee Semple McPherson opened the Angelus Temple in California. McPherson preached the Gospel with Jesus as the Healer, the Baptizer, the Savior, and coming King. These were the four cornerstones on the church, and they continue today. Social and foreign ministry were at the forefront of her beliefs. During the depression, the church fed more than a million needy people.

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.

The church bases its foundation on the Good News in the New Testament, and Jesus' life, ministry, and crucifixion. They have a literal interpretation of the Bible and follow it teachings exactly. Members are baptized in water and accept Jesus Christ as their Savior. They are not opposed to denominations that differ from them and are accepting of most true believers.

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.

Believers define their church as being in one of four stages, starting with the pioneer stage. This involves establishing a local group of disciples. Once the church is established locally, the leadership stage begins. Members are trained to become leaders in the congregation and in the local community. As the church grows, the next phase is outreach and the establishment of satellite houses of worship. The last stage they call movement. In this phase the membership is called to take their message to different 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.

For anyone interested in this denomination, believers will encourage them to come and listen to the good news and decide for themselves if this is the right path for them. Guests of all denominations and at all stages of belief are welcome.




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