ICOC: A Comprehensive Guide to the International Church of Christ

Introduction

The International Church of Christ (ICOC) is a global Christian movement known for its emphasis on discipleship, evangelism, and social service. Founded in the 1970s, ICOC has grown to encompass thousands of congregations in over 150 countries.

This comprehensive guide aims to provide an in-depth overview of ICOC, exploring its history, beliefs, practices, and impact on the Christian community.

History

ICOC traces its roots back to 1979, when Kip McKean founded the Boston Church of Christ. Inspired by the New Testament model of church life, the congregation emphasized regular Bible study, discipleship, and outreach.

As the Boston Church grew, it began to plant new churches in other cities. In 1991, the movement was officially renamed the International Church of Christ.

Beliefs

ICOC holds to a conservative evangelical interpretation of Christianity. Its core beliefs include:

• The Bible as the sole authority for faith and practice
• The Trinity: God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit
• The need for personal conversion and baptism for salvation
• The importance of discipleship and mutual accountability
• The role of the church as the body of Christ on earth

Practices

ICOC is known for its distinctive practices, which are based on the New Testament model of church life:

Discipleship

ICOC places a strong emphasis on discipleship, believing that every member is called to make disciples. Disciples are typically paired with a mentor who provides guidance and support.

Outreach

Evangelism is a central part of ICOC’s mission. The church encourages members to share their faith with others through personal evangelism, outreach events, and gospel campaigns.

Community Life

ICOC emphasizes the importance of community and fellowship. Members gather regularly for Bible study, worship, and social events.

Church Leadership

ICOC’s leadership structure is based on a plurality of elders, who are responsible for overseeing the church’s spiritual and administrative affairs.

Impact

ICOC has had a significant impact on the Christian community worldwide:

Church Growth

ICOC has been one of the fastest-growing church movements in history. Thousands of new congregations have been planted over the decades.

Social Service

ICOC is actively involved in social service, providing assistance to those in need, including the homeless, orphans, and refugees.

Persecution

ICOC has faced criticism and persecution in some countries due to its conservative beliefs and practices. However, the church remains committed to its mission of sharing the gospel and serving the community.

Controversies

ICOC has been the subject of some controversies over the years, particularly regarding its strict emphasis on discipleship and its use of “shepherding,” a form of spiritual oversight.

However, it’s important to note that these controversies are not representative of the entire movement. ICOC is a diverse organization with a wide range of beliefs and practices.

Conclusion

The International Church of Christ is a vibrant and growing Christian movement that has made a significant impact on the world. Its emphasis on discipleship, evangelism, and community life has helped millions of people come to faith and experience God’s love.

While ICOC has faced some challenges and controversies, it remains a force for good in the world, continuing to share the gospel and serve those in need.