What does the Church of God recognize as God's primary force for evangelization and discipling believers?

The Church of God recognizes the local church as God's primary force for evangelization and discipling believers because it serves as the fundamental unit of life and ministry for Christians. The local church is instrumental in fostering a sense of community, belonging, and spiritual growth among its members. Within this context, believers are equipped through teaching, fellowship, and worship, enabling them to grow in faith and to actively share the Gospel within their communities.

Local churches can effectively mobilize their congregations to engage with the surrounding community, allowing for personal connections that can lead to spiritual conversations and conversions. This grassroots approach is seen as vital, as it not only addresses immediate needs but also facilitates profound relationships that are essential for discipleship. The local church embraces the calling to both reach out to the unsaved and nurture the spiritual needs of its members, thereby playing a dual role in evangelization and discipleship.

While international missions, global outreach programs, and community service initiatives are all important aspects of the church's mission, they often operate as extensions of the work that begins within the local church context. These broader initiatives can supplement and support the local church's efforts but are not seen as the primary mechanism for nurturing personal faith and community evangelism.