BELIEFS & COMMUNITY
International Churches of Christ: discipleship and shared faith
Religious Values guide · Updated
The International Churches of Christ, or ICOC, are a family of congregations that emphasize following Jesus, evangelism and close relationships in discipleship. Their modern history includes the Boston Church of Christ movement beginning in 1979. They are distinct from the broader Churches of Christ and from the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).
This profile describes the ICOC's published self-understanding. Names and local practices should be checked with the specific congregation being considered.
Faith, grace and baptism
The ICOC's public introduction closely connects salvation by God's grace, faith in Jesus and baptism. It affirms Jesus' lordship and a life shaped by biblical teaching. A newcomer should ask how the congregation explains that relationship, especially if coming from a church with a different understanding of baptism. Similar language about discipleship can conceal a significant difference in the process of joining.[1]
Discipleship in everyday relationships
Bible study, evangelism and relationships that encourage Christian growth have a prominent place in ICOC identity. For someone exploring a congregation, the practical expectations deserve clear explanation: how study is organized, what mentoring involves and how decisions remain accountable. These questions help connect an intensive community life with an informed understanding of membership rather than leaving expectations implicit.[1]
A modern network with a particular history
The movement's own history traces growth from the Boston congregation beginning in 1979. Its directory identifies participating churches across countries and cities. That network identity matters because a generic Church of Christ name does not establish ICOC affiliation. Ask how a local congregation relates to other churches and how it identifies its leadership and shared teaching.[1][2]
Common questions
Is every church called Church of Christ part of ICOC?
No. Several distinct communities use similar names. Confirm the affiliation through the congregation and the ICOC directory rather than inferring it from a sign or a search result.[2]
What should I clarify before committing to a study or membership process?
Ask about its purpose, baptismal expectations, time commitments, confidentiality and how to raise concerns. Understanding these practical arrangements lets you assess the congregation's form of discipleship with clear expectations.
Sources & further reading
The sources below explain the beliefs and practices discussed here. Where a guide describes a broad movement, a named organization illustrates its own approach.
- 1.Disciples Today: About the ICOC
The network's account of beliefs and the Boston movement's history.
- 2.Disciples Today: ICOC churches
A network-published directory for checking church affiliation.