Testing the Spirits: Why the Continuing Church of God Fails the Biblical Standard

 

Introduction: The Call for Discernment

In a time when new theological movements frequently emerge, Christians must remain steadfast in discerning truth from deception. The Continuing Church of God (CCOG) presents itself as a restoration of early Christianity, claiming to uphold the original teachings of Christ and the apostles. However, upon closer examination, its doctrines and practices reveal significant departures from orthodox Christian faith. This article explores the origins, history, and theology of the CCOG, highlighting why it diverges from biblical Christianity and why believers should approach it with caution.

Origins and History

The Continuing Church of God was founded by Dr. Bob Thiel in 2012. Thiel, a former member of the Living Church of God, established the CCOG after claiming to receive divine revelations affirming his prophetic role. (1) The group identifies itself as the Philadelphia remnant of the Church of God, tracing its spiritual lineage to the early Christian church.

The CCOG asserts that mainstream Christianity has deviated from the original teachings of Christ, positioning itself as the true continuation of the faith. It emphasizes prophetic interpretations, end-time warnings, and adherence to Old Testament laws, including dietary restrictions and Sabbath observance.

While the Church of God tradition has historical roots in the Worldwide Church of God, founded by Herbert W. Armstrong, the CCOG represents a further splintering of this movement. Armstrongism, known for its unique eschatological interpretations and strict observance of Mosaic laws, profoundly influences the CCOG’s teachings. (2) However, unlike groups affiliated with the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR)—which emphasize modern apostles, charismatic gifts, and dominion theology—the CCOG follows a distinct theological path rooted in Armstrong’s legacy rather than NAR’s charismatic framework.

Theological Divergences

The theology of the Continuing Church of God significantly diverges from orthodox Christianity in several key areas:

1. Binitarianism vs. Trinitarianism

Unlike mainstream Christianity, which affirms the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—the CCOG adheres to binitarianism, recognizing only the Father and the Son as distinct persons in the Godhead. This rejection of the Holy Spirit as a distinct divine person contradicts centuries of Christian doctrine upheld by Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant traditions.

2. Legalism and Old Testament Practices

The CCOG insists that Christians must observe Old Testament laws, including circumcision, dietary restrictions, and strict Sabbath observance. This legalistic approach conflicts with the New Testament teachings of grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9), where salvation is not dependent on adherence to Mosaic Law but on Christ’s redemptive work.

3. Prophetic Claims and Eschatology

Dr. Bob Thiel claims to have received divine revelations, positioning himself as a prophetic figure. The CCOG places heavy emphasis on end-time prophecy, often interpreting global events as signs of imminent tribulation. While biblical prophecy is an essential aspect of Christian faith, the CCOG’s speculative interpretations and self-proclaimed prophetic authority raise concerns about theological accuracy and spiritual manipulation.

4. Rejection of Mainstream Christian Doctrines

The CCOG rejects many foundational Christian doctrines, including the immortality of the soul, traditional views on hell, and the concept of salvation by grace alone. Instead, it promotes a unique interpretation of biblical eschatology based on Armstrongism. (3)

Why Christians Should Exercise Discernment

By rejecting the Trinity, enforcing legalistic adherence to Old Testament laws, promoting speculative prophetic claims, and straying from core Christian doctrines, the Continuing Church of God presents significant theological concerns. Scripture explicitly warns believers against this kind of distortion:

"But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, a curse be on him!" (Galatians 1:8, CSB).

Conclusion: Standing Firm in Biblical Truth

As Christians, we are called to test every teaching against the Word of God (1 John 4:1). While the Continuing Church of God claims to uphold biblical truth, its theological framework diverges significantly from the gospel of Christ. Believers must remain steadfast in sound doctrine, rejecting movements that distort the message of salvation and impose legalistic burdens.

In a world filled with spiritual deception, let us hold fast to the truth of Scripture, relying on the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the wisdom of the Christian community. Discernment is not merely an intellectual exercise—it is a spiritual safeguard against error.