About Us
Welcome to the United Church of God - New Zealand!
We are a Christian church with congregations in Auckland and Hamilton, and in most parts of the world. We are a part of the United Church of God, An International Association.
Our Mission
PREACHING THE GOSPEL | PREPARING A PEOPLE
We uphold the preeminence of the Word of God, and aim to hold fast to the teachings of the original Church, founded upon Christ and the Apostles. As such, we teach loving reverence for God our Father, Salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, and promote the Law of God as His guide to daily life under the leading of the Holy Spirit. We follow the teachings of Christ and the Apostles, including observing the same day for worship as they did, namely the biblical 7th day (Saturday) Sabbath.
Preaching the Gospel
The Church is to proclaim to the world the same 'Gospel of the Kingdom of God' taught by Jesus Christ. This is the central theme of all Jesus preached and taught. This message not only offers great hope for all of humanity, but also encompasses the purpose of human existence—why we are here and where our world is headed.
Jesus came preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God (Mark 1:14). But what was His message?
The word 'gospel' means good news—focusing on God's gracious promise of eternal salvation to believers. Along with that promise is a wonderful opportunity to participate in a literal Kingdom under the rule of (King) Jesus Christ, Who will return to bring world peace for all.
Preparing a People
The Church's overall mission extends well beyond its initial responsibility of preaching the gospel and making new disciples. Jesus Himself "gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare followers of Christ for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ" (Ephesians 4:11-13).
The Church is commissioned not only to feed His sheep, as He commanded, but to prepare these followers for greater works of service to God, their families, their communities and their fellow man. Jesus placed great emphasis on serving others.
For these reasons the United Church of God strives to establish congregations around the world where people can assemble and receive guidance in godly living and service. Our congregations are served by ordained pastors trained to accurately teach and explain the Scriptures and to counsel those who request personal guidance. Pastors are often assisted by other dedicated men and women in helping congregations reach their full potential in serving others—as opportunity, need and resources permit.
Media
The United Church of God produces a range of literature and video resources aimed at fulfilling the mission of the Church.
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Beyond Today (television)
Our half-hour television program analysing various biblical subjects, presented by Steve Myers, Gary Petty, and Darris McNeely.
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Beyond Today (magazine)
A full colour bi-monthly magazine which focuses on issues relating to modern life from a biblical perspective.
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Compass Check
A magazine for the youth of the Church.
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Bible Study Guides
We publish a range of study guides and booklets which explain biblical subjects.
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Bible Study Course
12 monthly lessons focusing on the main themes of the Bible.
In line with Christ's reminder Freely you have received, freely give (Matthew 10:8), our literature is distributed without charge or obligation to all who request it.
Personal Counsel
We desire to share God's way of life with those who earnestly seek to worship and follow our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Our ministry is available to counsel, answer questions and explain the Bible. We welcome you to contact us on our toll free number, 0508 463 763, or come along and visit. For details, see our Congregations page.
Please feel free to write to or e-mail us with any questions you might have.
Enquiries
To contact us via phone, post or email, click here.
Financial Integrity & Stewardship
The Bible repeatedly emphasises that God's servants are to be wise stewards and managers over the resources He provides. They are to recognise that those resources—financial, physical and human alike—actually belong to Him rather than any individual or organisation.
Financial integrity of business affairs is a priority of the Church. The Church's work is supported by the voluntary tithes and offerings of members and other supporters — following the biblical teaching of honouring God with one's substance as the means of supporting the preaching of the gospel and financing the work of the Church. Accordingly, the United Church of God - New Zealand has put in place systems of checks and balances to avoid the possibility of misuse of funds or financial improprieties.