Is Iglesia Ni Cristo Christian? Explained

Welcome to our article about Iglesia Ni Cristo! If you’re reading this, you might be wondering: is Iglesia Ni Cristo a Christian denomination? The answer is not as straightforward as you might think. In this post, we’ll explore the history, beliefs, and practices of Iglesia Ni Cristo to help you understand its relationship with Christianity.

First, let’s define what we mean by “Christian.” While there are many interpretations of Christianity, most agree that a Christian is someone who follows the teachings of Jesus Christ and believes in the Holy Trinity. However, Iglesia Ni Cristo has some unique beliefs that set it apart from other Christian denominations.

So, what are these beliefs? And how do they compare to other Christian denominations? In this article, we’ll delve into the history, beliefs, and controversies surrounding Iglesia Ni Cristo, as well as its relationship with other Christian denominations. By the end of this post, you’ll have a better understanding of whether or not Iglesia Ni Cristo is a Christian denomination.

Are you curious to learn more? Let’s get started!

What is Iglesia Ni Cristo?

Iglesia Ni Cristo is a religious organization that was founded in the Philippines in 1914 by Felix Y. Manalo. The name Iglesia Ni Cristo is Tagalog for “Church of Christ.” The organization is known for its distinctive architecture, which features towering spires atop its houses of worship.

The core teachings of the Iglesia Ni Cristo are based on the Bible, and the organization considers itself to be the true church that was re-established by Christ in the last days. Members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo believe that they are the only ones who will be saved and that all other religions are false.

The Iglesia Ni Cristo has grown to become one of the largest independent Christian denominations in the world, with millions of members in more than 140 countries. The organization is known for its strict discipline, and members are expected to adhere to a strict code of conduct.

The Iglesia Ni Cristo has a hierarchical leadership structure, with the Executive Minister serving as the highest authority. The organization has its own theological seminary, as well as a publishing house that produces religious literature and media.

While the Iglesia Ni Cristo is based in the Philippines, it has a strong presence in many other countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia. The organization is also known for its extensive humanitarian efforts, including disaster relief and outreach to impoverished communities.

Origin of Iglesia Ni Cristo

Date	Event	Significance
July 27, 1914	Felix Manalo registered the Iglesia Ni Cristo with the Philippine government	Official recognition as a religious organization
1919	The church’s first house of worship was built in Punta, Santa Ana, Manila	Symbol of the growing membership and establishment of the church
1939	Expansion outside the Philippines with the establishment of congregations in Hawaii and California	First step in the global expansion of the church

The founder, Felix Manalo, grew up in a deeply religious family and was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church before he founded Iglesia Ni Cristo. He claimed to have restored the original church founded by Jesus Christ in the 1st century AD, which he believed had been corrupted by Catholicism and Protestantism.

Manalo’s teachings emphasized the importance of following the commandments of God, the imminent return of Jesus Christ, and the need for a true church that can provide salvation. The church also emphasizes the importance of family values and morality, with strict rules on premarital sex, gambling, and substance abuse.

The church has faced controversy over the years, including accusations of political meddling and suppression of dissent. However, it has also garnered a significant following, with millions of members worldwide and a presence in over 100 countries.

Today, Iglesia Ni Cristo is considered one of the fastest-growing Christian denominations in the world, with a strong emphasis on missionary work and community service.

Founder of Iglesia Ni Cristo

The founder of Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) is Felix Y. Manalo, born in the Philippines in 188He was raised in a Catholic family but later became a member of the Methodist Church. In 1913, he claimed to have received a divine call to establish a new church, which he named Iglesia Ni Cristo or Church of Christ.

Manalo’s message focused on the end times, the importance of membership in the true church, and the need for a restored gospel. He used biblical passages to support his teachings, and his message resonated with many Filipinos who were searching for spiritual guidance during a time of social and economic upheaval.

Manalo faced persecution from both Catholic and Protestant authorities, but his message continued to spread. He traveled extensively throughout the Philippines and established numerous congregations. Today, the INC has millions of members around the world.

Meaning of Iglesia Ni Cristo

Iglesia Ni Cristo, translated from Tagalog as “Church of Christ,” is a Christian denomination founded in the Philippines in the early 20th century. The name itself reflects the organization’s belief in Christ as the center of their faith and doctrine.

The phrase “Iglesia Ni Cristo” comes from the Tagalog Bible, specifically from the book of Acts where the original Greek text uses the phrase “ekklesia tou Christou,” which means “church of Christ.”

Members of Iglesia Ni Cristo believe that their organization is the true church that Christ founded and that they are the only ones who will be saved on Judgment Day. This belief sets them apart from many other Christian denominations.

Although the organization’s name and doctrine are influenced by Christianity, some critics have raised concerns about its teachings and practices, which they believe contradict traditional Christian beliefs.

History of Iglesia Ni Cristo

Early Years: Iglesia Ni Cristo was founded in the Philippines in 1914 by Felix Y. Manalo, who claimed to be God’s last messenger. In its early years, the church faced opposition from the Catholic Church and other religious groups.

Expansion: Despite the opposition, the church continued to grow and expand throughout the Philippines and eventually to other countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.

World War II: During World War II, the church faced persecution from the Japanese occupation forces, which led to the arrest and imprisonment of many church members.

Post-War Growth: After the war, the church continued to grow and establish itself as a major religious organization in the Philippines, with a strong emphasis on missionary work and community service.

Recent Developments: In recent years, the church has faced controversy and criticism over allegations of corruption and human rights abuses, particularly in the Philippines. Despite this, it remains one of the largest and most influential religious organizations in the country.

Early years of Iglesia Ni Cristo

Iglesia Ni Cristo was founded in the Philippines in 1914 by Felix Y. Manalo who felt that the teachings of the Catholic Church did not align with the Bible. Manalo’s teachings soon gathered a following, and he registered Iglesia Ni Cristo as a religious organization in 1918.

During its early years, Iglesia Ni Cristo faced opposition and persecution from the Catholic Church and the Philippine government. Despite this, the church continued to grow and expand beyond the Philippines, reaching other parts of Asia, Europe, and North America.

Through its history, Iglesia Ni Cristo has been known for its emphasis on discipline, unity, and obedience to church leaders. The church has also been involved in various social and humanitarian programs, such as blood donation drives, medical missions, and disaster relief efforts.

Expansion of Iglesia Ni Cristo

After the death of its founder, the church continued to grow, with the construction of new houses of worship and the establishment of new congregations in different parts of the Philippines. In 1968, the church also began its international expansion with the establishment of a congregation in Hawaii, USA. Since then, the church has established congregations in different parts of the world, including North America, Asia, Europe, and Australia. The church has also been active in humanitarian efforts, such as disaster relief and medical missions, both in the Philippines and abroad.

In 2014, the church made history by inaugurating the Philippine Arena, the world’s largest indoor arena, which can accommodate up to 55,000 people. The arena serves not only as a venue for religious gatherings but also as a venue for various sports and entertainment events. The church’s continued expansion and influence in the Philippines and abroad have not been without controversy, with some critics accusing the church of political meddling and human rights abuses.

Despite the controversies, the church remains a significant religious institution in the Philippines and continues to attract new members. Its growth and influence have led some scholars to study its impact on Philippine society and politics. The church’s expansion and outreach programs continue to be an important part of its mission to spread its message of salvation and to help those in need.

Today, Iglesia Ni Cristo is one of the fastest-growing religious organizations in the world, with a presence in more than 140 countries and territories. Its continued growth and influence make it an important institution to study and understand for those interested in Philippine culture, religion, and society.

Challenges faced by Iglesia Ni Cristo

Persecution: The church has faced persecution and legal battles in the Philippines and other countries where it operates. In some cases, members have been harassed and arrested, and some church properties have been seized.

Leadership disputes: The church has also faced internal leadership disputes, which have led to divisions and splinter groups. In 2015, the church experienced a high-profile leadership crisis that resulted in the expulsion of some prominent members.

Criticism from other Christian groups: Some other Christian groups have criticized Iglesia Ni Cristo for its beliefs and practices, such as its emphasis on the authority of its leaders and its strict discipline policies.

Allegations of corruption: The church has also faced allegations of corruption and misuse of funds, including accusations that its leaders have engaged in money laundering and other illegal activities.

Despite these challenges, Iglesia Ni Cristo has continued to grow and expand, with a significant presence in the Philippines and a growing number of members in other parts of the world. The church has also undertaken various humanitarian and outreach programs, such as disaster relief efforts and medical missions, to help those in need.

Beliefs of Iglesia Ni Cristo

God and Jesus Christ – The Iglesia Ni Cristo believes in one true God who created everything and sent Jesus Christ to save humanity. Jesus Christ is seen as the son of God and the only way to salvation.

Salvation – According to Iglesia Ni Cristo, salvation can only be attained through faith and good works. The church teaches that baptism is necessary for salvation and that members must follow God’s commandments to receive eternal life.

Resurrection and Judgement Day – The church believes in the resurrection of the dead and the judgement day, where everyone will be judged according to their deeds. Those who are saved will go to heaven, while those who are not will go to hell.

Role of the Church – Iglesia Ni Cristo believes that it is the one true church established by Jesus Christ, and that membership in the church is necessary for salvation. The church plays a central role in the spiritual life of its members, and provides guidance and support in living a life according to God’s will.

End Times – The church believes in the end times, and that Jesus Christ will return to judge the living and the dead. The church teaches that only members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo will be saved and that the end times will be preceded by signs, including wars, natural disasters, and the rise of false prophets.

God in Iglesia Ni Cristo

God is the foundation of the faith in Iglesia Ni Cristo. They believe in one God, who is the creator of all things and the source of all power and authority.

God the Father is the Supreme Being and the ultimate authority. He is the creator of everything in the universe, including humans. He is a personal God who loves and cares for His people.

Jesus Christ is considered as the Son of God, but not as God Himself. He is the Savior and Redeemer of humanity. The Church teaches that Jesus is the only way to salvation.

The Holy Spirit is the power of God that works in the world and in the Church. It is the Spirit of truth and the comforter promised by Jesus to guide and empower His disciples.

The Trinity is not accepted in Iglesia Ni Cristo’s doctrine. They believe that God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit are three distinct entities, with God the Father as the highest authority.

Salvation in Iglesia Ni Cristo

Baptism and joining the Church: The Church believes that salvation is only possible through baptism and joining the Iglesia Ni Cristo. Members are baptized through immersion in water and by accepting the Church’s teachings and doctrines.

Good works and following God’s commandments: Members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo believe that salvation is achieved through good works and by following God’s commandments. This includes living a righteous life, being kind and helpful to others, and avoiding sinful behaviors.

Faith in Jesus Christ: The Church teaches that salvation is only possible through faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and as the Savior of humanity. Members are taught to have a strong faith in Jesus Christ and to follow His teachings.

Enduring until the end: The Iglesia Ni Cristo believes that salvation is not guaranteed, and that members must continue to live a righteous life and endure until the end. This means that members must remain faithful to God and the Church, and continue to follow God’s commandments until the end of their lives.

Is Iglesia Ni Cristo a Cult?

There have been various claims that Iglesia Ni Cristo is a cult, but such allegations are baseless and unfounded. The Church has always maintained that it is a Christian religion with teachings rooted in the Bible.

One common misconception about the Church is that it is secretive and does not allow its members to interact with people outside the Church. However, the Church is open to anyone who wishes to learn about its teachings and beliefs.

Another common misconception is that the Church exerts strict control over its members, but this is not true. The Church encourages its members to exercise their free will and to make their own decisions.

Some critics also allege that the Church engages in illegal activities, but there is no evidence to support such claims. The Church adheres to the law and promotes respect for the authorities.

In conclusion, Iglesia Ni Cristo is a legitimate and recognized Christian denomination that upholds the teachings of the Bible. Allegations that it is a cult are unfounded and should be dismissed as such.

Criteria for a cult

The term “cult” is often associated with negative connotations, and it can be difficult to define. However, some experts have identified certain criteria that may indicate whether a group is a cult. These include:

1. Authoritarian Leadership: A cult is often led by a single individual or a small group of leaders who have absolute control over the group’s members and decision-making.
2. Isolation from Society: Cults often isolate themselves from the wider society, either physically or socially, to create a sense of separation from the rest of the world.
3. Manipulation of Members: Cults may use various forms of manipulation, such as mind control techniques, to keep their members loyal and obedient.
4. Financial Exploitation: Some cults may require their members to donate large amounts of money or assets to the group, often under the guise of religious donations.

It’s important to note that simply meeting one or more of these criteria does not necessarily mean that a group is a cult. Rather, experts suggest using these criteria as a framework for further investigation into the group’s practices and beliefs.

Relationship between Iglesia Ni Cristo and other Christian denominations

Distinctiveness: Iglesia Ni Cristo is distinct from other Christian denominations in terms of its teachings and practices, particularly its belief in the unity of the Church and the exclusivity of salvation through it.

Interactions: Iglesia Ni Cristo engages with other Christian denominations through dialogue and outreach programs aimed at promoting understanding and cooperation between different religious groups.

Similarities: Iglesia Ni Cristo shares some similarities with other Christian denominations in terms of its belief in the Bible, the Trinity, and the importance of worship and prayer.

Challenges: Despite efforts to promote unity and understanding, Iglesia Ni Cristo has faced challenges in its relationships with other Christian denominations, particularly due to differences in doctrine and disagreements over religious practices.

Doctrinal differences between Iglesia Ni Cristo and other Christian denominations

Beliefs about the nature of God: Iglesia Ni Cristo believes in a singular God who is the creator of everything and is not part of the Holy Trinity like other Christian denominations. The church also teaches that Jesus Christ is not God, but rather a human being who was chosen by God to be the Savior of mankind.

View on the Bible: Iglesia Ni Cristo uses the Bible as its sole source of authority, but also relies heavily on the interpretations of their leader, whom they believe to be the messenger of God in these last days. In contrast, other Christian denominations believe in the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, allowing for more flexibility in interpretation and application of the Bible.

Teachings on salvation: Iglesia Ni Cristo teaches that salvation can only be attained by joining their church and following their teachings, while other Christian denominations believe that salvation is based on faith in Jesus Christ and not tied to a specific church or organization.

Views on the end times: Iglesia Ni Cristo believes that the end times are near and that the church is the only true church that will be saved during the Second Coming of Christ. Other Christian denominations have varying beliefs on the end times, but do not hold to the idea that the salvation of the Church is exclusive to one particular group.

Relations between Iglesia Ni Cristo and the Philippine government

The Iglesia Ni Cristo has a significant presence and influence in the Philippines, and this has resulted in a complex relationship with the government. In the past, the INC has been accused of supporting certain political candidates and parties, and there have been instances of politicians seeking the endorsement of the church.

However, the INC is also known for its involvement in charitable activities, disaster relief efforts, and community service projects. The church has its own social services department, and it has been praised for its efforts to help those in need.

There have also been controversies surrounding the relationship between the church and the government. In 2015, the INC staged a rally in protest of what they perceived as government interference in the internal affairs of the church. The rally caused significant traffic disruptions and drew criticism from some sectors.

Despite these issues, the INC has been recognized as a legitimate religious organization by the Philippine government. The church is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission and is recognized as a tax-exempt entity. The government has also provided security and other support for the church’s events, such as its annual anniversary celebration.

What makes a Christian denomination?

Beliefs: The most fundamental element of a Christian denomination is its beliefs. These beliefs may be rooted in the Bible or in specific interpretations of biblical texts.

Worship: Another key aspect is worship, which is often expressed through rituals and practices that are unique to each denomination.

Organization: Denominations often have a hierarchical structure of leadership, such as bishops or pastors, who oversee and guide their congregations.

Community: The sense of community is also an essential element of a Christian denomination, as it provides members with a supportive network of like-minded individuals who share their beliefs and values.

Overall, a Christian denomination is characterized by its distinctive beliefs, practices, organizational structure, and sense of community. While there may be similarities between different denominations, each one has its own unique identity and way of expressing its faith.

Basic beliefs of a Christian denomination

Christian denominations have a few basic beliefs that they share, including a belief in one God, the divinity of Jesus Christ, and the belief in the Holy Trinity. They also believe in the importance of the Bible as the word of God and in the sacraments of baptism and communion. Most Christian denominations share the belief in the resurrection of Jesus and in the coming of the Kingdom of God. While there may be some differences in interpretation, these core beliefs help define what it means to be a Christian denomination.

Overall, a Christian denomination is defined not just by its beliefs, but also by its practices, traditions, and governance. Many Christian denominations have developed unique worship practices, such as the use of liturgy, music, and sacraments. They also have their own organizational structures, with varying levels of hierarchy and decision-making power. Despite their differences, Christian denominations often strive for unity and cooperation, recognizing the shared mission of spreading the message of Jesus Christ.

Differences among Christian denominations

There are many different Christian denominations, each with their own unique beliefs and practices. One of the main differences among Christian denominations is their interpretation of the Bible. Some denominations take a literal approach, while others take a more metaphorical or symbolic approach.

Another major difference among Christian denominations is their worship practices. Some denominations have traditional liturgical services with structured prayers and rituals, while others have more informal services with contemporary music and spontaneous prayer.

Doctrine and theology also differ among Christian denominations. For example, some denominations believe in predestination, while others believe in free will. Some denominations baptize infants, while others require baptism to be done only when an individual can make a conscious decision to follow Jesus.

Finally, there are differences among Christian denominations regarding church governance and organization. Some denominations have hierarchical structures with a central authority, while others have a congregational model with decisions made by the local church community.

Similarities among Christian denominations

Belief in the Holy Trinity: One of the most fundamental beliefs of Christianity is the doctrine of the Holy Trinity. All Christian denominations believe in the existence of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

The Bible: All Christian denominations recognize the Bible as a sacred text, although there may be some differences in the number and arrangement of the books included in the Old and New Testaments.

Salvation through Jesus: Christianity teaches that salvation is possible through faith in Jesus Christ. This belief is held by all Christian denominations, although the specific interpretation of salvation and how it is attained may differ.

Worship and sacraments: All Christian denominations practice some form of worship and have sacraments, such as baptism and communion, that are considered to be important aspects of Christian life and belief.

Conclusion: Is Iglesia Ni Cristo Christian?

After examining the beliefs and practices of Iglesia Ni Cristo, it is clear that they consider themselves a Christian denomination.

While there are some doctrinal differences between Iglesia Ni Cristo and other Christian denominations, they share many core beliefs, such as the belief in the Holy Trinity and the divinity of Jesus Christ.

The relationship between Iglesia Ni Cristo and other Christian denominations may be complicated, but it is important to acknowledge their shared beliefs and respect their right to practice their faith.

Furthermore, while there may be criticism and controversy surrounding Iglesia Ni Cristo, it is not productive to label them as a cult without a proper understanding of the criteria for such a label.

Ultimately, whether or not Iglesia Ni Cristo is considered a Christian denomination is a matter of interpretation and opinion, but it is important to approach the discussion with an open mind and a respect for the diversity of religious beliefs in our world.

Summary of Iglesia Ni Cristo’s beliefs and practices

The Iglesia Ni Cristo is a Christian denomination that originated in the Philippines in the early 20th century. Its members believe in one God, the Bible, and the teachings of their founder, Felix Manalo.

They hold that the Iglesia Ni Cristo is the one true church established by Christ, and that its members are the chosen people of God. They also believe in the importance of regular worship services and the giving of tithes and offerings.

The Iglesia Ni Cristo practices baptism by complete immersion, as well as foot washing and holy communion. They also celebrate important events in the life of their church, such as the anniversary of its founding, with special worship services.

The Iglesia Ni Cristo places a strong emphasis on family values and encourages its members to uphold moral and ethical principles in their personal and professional lives. They are also known for their outreach programs and charitable efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions