Fact Check: "The Assemblies of God is a major Pentecostal denomination."
What We Know
The Assemblies of God (AG) is widely recognized as one of the largest Pentecostal denominations globally. It was established in 1914 through the unification of several smaller Pentecostal groups in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The denomination is characterized by its belief in the gifts of the Holy Spirit, including speaking in tongues, and it emphasizes a Trinitarian view of God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) along with Arminian theology, which supports free will in salvation (Learn Religions, Britannica).
As of recent reports, the Assemblies of God has approximately 12,100 churches in the United States and over 236,000 churches worldwide, with Brazil hosting the largest number of AG congregations (Learn Religions, The Gospel Coalition). The denomination's headquarters are located in Springfield, Missouri, and it is known for its mission-oriented approach, engaging in both domestic and international outreach (Britannica).
Analysis
The claim that the Assemblies of God is a major Pentecostal denomination is supported by multiple credible sources. The Britannica entry highlights its status as the largest Pentecostal denomination in the United States, which is corroborated by data from Learn Religions and The Gospel Coalition. These sources provide consistent information regarding the denomination's size, history, and theological stance.
The Assemblies of God's emphasis on the gifts of the Holy Spirit and its organizational structure, which includes a General Council and various affiliated institutions, further solidifies its identity as a significant player within the broader Pentecostal movement (Learn Religions, Britannica). The sources used are reputable and provide a comprehensive overview of the denomination's beliefs and practices, making them reliable for this fact-check.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that "The Assemblies of God is a major Pentecostal denomination" is accurate. The denomination's large membership, extensive church network, and significant influence within the Pentecostal movement confirm its status as a major denomination.
