Church planting is taken to a new level with Vineyard movement Christians. Since 1975, the Vineyard movement has spawned 1,500 affiliated churches worldwide. Churches in the Vineyard movement are neocharismatic in nature. They are also rooted in historical evangelical Christian theology.
John Wimber, who took control of the denomination's leadership in 1982 and served in that capacity until his death in 1997, set an orthodox doctrinal tone rooted in an emphasis on connecting with God through worship.
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These five beliefs set Vineyard movement Christians apart from other Christians.
1. Church Planting
One aspect that defines the Vineyard movement more than anything else is the act of church planting.
The Vineyard movement website states, "We believe that the best way to expand the Kingdom of God is through the planting of local churches."
2. Contemporary Worship
Vineyard Churches embrace a contemporary style of worship in their Sunday services.
This style of worship makes contemporary Christian music a central element of the worship service while focusing less on traditional sermons, hymns and prayers — giving it concert-like feel.
A worship leader and band are responsible for selecting songs that will be played during a worship service.
3. Gifts of the Spirit
Unlike many traditional Protestant denominations, the Vineyard movement does not believe the gifts of the Holy Spirit ceased after the time of the Apostles.
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One of their stated core values and beliefs is to "be a people of the Kingdom of God who partner with the Holy Spirit."
Fruits of this partnership include gifts of the spirit like speaking in tongues, healing, and casting out demons.
4. Clergy Selected From Membership
Pastors and ministers among Vineyard movement Christians are not trained in seminaries like in many other Protestant denominations. They are chosen from among members who have served the church as lay leaders for several years.
Clergy preach with a relaxed style and often wear casual clothing when conducting Sunday worship.
5. Experience God
Beyond simply reading the Bible or listening to a Sunday sermon, the Vineyard movement seeks to encourage its members to experience God in each day of their lives.
Such experiences can be found through participating in various church ministries or participating in weekday home worship groups.
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