Association of Vineyard Churches
Empowered evangelical movement combining Kingdom theology with contemporary intimate worship
The Association of Vineyard Churches originated in 1982 when John Wimber led his congregation out of Calvary Chapel due to differences over charismatic ministry and prophecy, establishing a movement characterized by George Eldon Ladd's inaugurated Kingdom theology ('Already and Not Yet'), intimate vertical worship music (Vineyard Music), and 'doing what Jesus did' through healing prayer and compassionate church planting.
Historical Context & Significance
The Vineyard experienced dramatic global revival movements such as the Toronto Blessing (1994), growing to over 2,500 churches worldwide known for down-to-earth ministry without hype or emotional manipulation.
Genealogical Lineage & Splits
Calvary Chapel Fellowship
Calvary Chapel was founded in 1965 in Costa Mesa, California, by Pastor Chuck Smith, becoming the epicenter of the 1960s–70s 'Jesus People Movement' by welcoming barefoot hippies, baptizing thousands in the Pacific Ocean at Corona del Mar, pioneering contemporary Christian praise music (Maranatha! Music), and institutionalizing verse-by-verse chapter-by-chapter expository Bible teaching through the entire Scripture.
Separated in 1982 ADTheological & Hermeneutical Coordinates
Primary Scripture Proof-Texts
Key biblical passages central to this tradition's exegesis and historical debates.
Connected Theological Perspectives & Debates
Universal confession that the Holy Spirit sovereignly distributes spiritual gifts to the body of Christ for mutual edification and fruitfulness.
Universal confession that the Holy Spirit indwells every true Christian and empowers the church to bear witness to Jesus Christ.
Universal confession that the original Twelve Apostles and Paul held an unrepeatable historical role in witnessing Christ's resurrection and authoring inspired scripture.