The Vine and the Branches: A History of the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel

by Nathaniel M. Van Cleave

It was with the aim of “Worldwide, Interdenominational Evangelism” that Aimee Semple McPherson dedicated Angelus Temple on January 1, 1923. Shortly thereafter, an evangelistic training institute was created. And in 1927, the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel came into existence.

From its beginning in the early twentieth century, the ministry of the Foursquare Gospel Church and its message of “Jesus Christ the same, Yesterday and Today and Forever,” has spread into more than 140 countries of the world, with more than 66,000 churches ministering to more than 8.7 million members worldwide.
 
The Vine and the Branches: A History of the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel) traces the growth of the Foursquare Church, its doctrine, organization, mission to the world, and even its difficulties. Written by one who was a productive participant in much of its history, this book provides an honest accurate and perceptive record of those who have contributed to its present role in the Body of Christ.

320 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 1994

Reviews

[Ken Grant · Rating 5 out of 5]

This work is filled with amazing detail about the organization begun by the ever interesting Aimee Semple McPherson. I enjoyed it so much that I would love to have someone update it through the current day. I had the honor to know the author as a man of integrity and warmth and both of these come through in the writing. As a member of the Foursquare Church I am proud of the work that God has done through so many who are detailed within the pages of this book.