Christian Gospel Mission
기독교복음선교회
Providence
AbbreviationCGM
ClassificationChristian new religious movement
Head PastorJung Myung Seok (Joshua)
HeadquartersWolmyeongdong
FounderJung Myung Seok (Joshua)
Origin1978
Seoul, South Korea
Separated fromMethodism
MembersMore than 200,000
Other name(s)
  • Setsuri (Japan)
  • Bright Moon Church
  • Morning Star Church
  • Korean College Students MS Ministry
  • Jesus Morning Star (JMS)
  • World Youth College Student MS Union
  • International Christian Union


Official websiteOfficial website
Official website
Christian Gospel Mission
Hangul
기독교복음선교회
Hanja
基督敎福音宣敎會
Revised Romanizationgidokgyobogeumseongyohoe
McCune–Reischauerkidokkyobogŭmsŏn’gyohoe

The Christian Gospel Mission (CGM) is a Christian new religious movement founded by Jung Myung Seok. It began its ministry in June 1978, in Seoul, South Korea. In its formative years, CGM has also been called Jesus Morning Star (JMS), International Christian Union, the Morning Star Ministry (MS Ministry), Ae-chun Church (애천교회), and formally became CGM in October 1999.

CGM also calls itself “Providence”, with the meaning of “God’s will and history”. Globally, CGM proselytizes under different translations of the name "Providence" (Sheli (chinese/taiwanese), setsuri (japanese), sumni (korean)). Various churches under CGM have its own distinct name, but follow Jung’s teachings (e.g. Bright Moon Church, Nak-seong-dae Church, Seoul Church).

In 2005, the CGM had over 400 churches in Korea, and churches in over 50 others nations, with a total membership in excess of 200,000. Its headquarters and retreat center is located in Wolmyeongdong, South Korea.

The CGM believes in the authority of the Bible, that Jesus is the Christ. It emphasizes the importance of sincere faith in God and Jesus, by practicing the Bible’s teachings. The CGM’s teachings of the Bible divert from literal interpretations of the Bible and traditional Christian views,[1] because it believes that the Bible is full of parables and symbols. CGM’s 30 lessons are said to bear resemblance to the "Divine Principle" of the Unification Church.

CGM conducts various religious practices including giving glory to God, Holy Spirit Movements, prayer meetings and evangelism events. It is also active in peace and culture activities such as various sports and arts events. The CGM's public service arm is also active in over 50 community service activities internationally.

CGM has been criticized for teaching its founder, Jung, to be the messiah. CGM has refuted this allegation and stated that CGM and Jung teach Jesus as the Messiah, and that all Jesus’ followers should strive to become the body of Jesus on earth by doing His work.

CGM has also been widely referred to by the media as a cult.[2][3] The CGM responded that Jung and the CGM teaches a life centered on Jesus, although its Biblical interpretations may differ from some traditional Christian views.[1]

In April 2009, CGM's founder Jung was sentenced by the Supreme Court of South Korea to 10 years imprisonment based on four charges of sexual assault and molestation,[4][5] following media allegations since 1999. In 2010, the South Korean Court ruled that the 1999 media report was biased and CGM was compensated for the damages.[6] After Jung was sentenced, investigative news reports emerged claiming that the judgment against Jung was unjust and without proper evidence.[7][8][9]

History

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The Christian Gospel Mission's Founder, Jung Myung Seok

The Christian Gospel Mission (CGM) was founded by Jung Myung Seok, and began its ministry in June 1978, in Seoul, South Korea. In 1980, the Aechun Church was founded with the early members of the CGM.[10]

In 1982, Jung established the Korean College Student MS Ministry. In 1983, the organization was registered with the Korean Jesus Presbyterian Methodist Order. In 1986, Jung set up and became an appointed director of the Korean Jesus Presbyterian Methodist (Truth) organization.[11][10]

In 1989, the organization was restructured as the World Youth College Student MS Union. In 1990, the World Youth College Union opened its own seminary school. [11] In 1996, it was reorganized into the International Christian Union[10] after having been expelled from the Methodist Order.[12] In October 1999, the International Christian Union was reorganized into the Christian Gospel Mission, which is the present day organization.[10][12][11]

Organization

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File:Christian Gospel Mission (Providence) Giving Glory to God.png
Members of Christian Gospel Mission (Providence) giving glory to God during an event in CGM's retreat center, Wolmyeongdong (South Korea).

Structure and Membership

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In 2005, the CGM had over 400 churches in Korea, and churches in over 50 others nations, with a total membership in excess of 200,000.[1][13]

CGM also calls itself “Providence”, with the meaning of  “God’s will and history”. CGM stated that the term was derived from theologians and Christian leaders throughout history, who mostly viewed the term “Providence” as either God’s administration of nature, history, church and people's lives, or as the immediate provision and concrete concern that God has toward world advancement.[14] Globally, CGM proselytizes under different translations of the name "Providence" (Sheli (chinese/taiwanese), setsuri (japanese), sumni (korean)).

Various churches under CGM have its own distinct name, but follow Jung’s teachings (e.g. Nak-seong-dae Church, Seoul Church).[15][16][17]

Headquarters and Retreat Center

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In 1989, Jung and CGM members began to redevelop the mountain village of Wolmyeongdong, which to date, has became a natural temple and where the headquarters for CGM is located. Wolmyeongdong consists of various facilities and buildings on a tract of land of about 991,735square meters in size.[18] Wolmyeongdong houses a statue of Jesus that stands in a prominent location. Its rock landscape is inscribed with the words, "All these has been designed by God, inspired by the Holy Spirit, protected by the Lord Jesus Christ, and we have worked as their hands and as their feet."[19]

In the early 1900s, Wolmyeongdong was a desolate mountain village where few people visited. Currently, hundreds of thousands of people visit Wolmyeongdong annually.[20] It was reported that CGM also hosted various local and overseas VIPs in Wolmyeongdong, such as Han Wha-Gab, the President of the Foundation for East and West Cooperation, the former member of the Peace and Democracy Party and the Democratic Party; So Won-Sook, the President of the head office of the International central association for law; Choi Young-Wook, the former Professor of Sungkyul Christian University, Oh Gyo-Han, Professor of Danguk University; Jung Myeong-Ho, the President of the institute of Deoknan Cultural Heritage Studies; Yi Young-In, the head of the Beijing Museum in China. [18]

Wolmyeongdong hosts festivals, performances, activities and sporting events all throughout the year. In summer, summer retreats are held for the elderly, families, college students and children. In autumn, rock festivals are held for exhibiting natural rocks. In spring, flower festivals are held to celebrate the blossoming of spring flowers. In winter, people ski and sled down the mountain slopes of Wolmyeongdong.[18][20]

International CGM Churches

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CGM (Japan)

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The CGM expanded to Japan in 1985.[21][5][22][23] As of 2010, CGM (Japan) has more than 3000 members.[24]

According to the official CGM (Japan) website, the ministry teaches about Jesus Christ, and seeks to convey Christ’s love and gospel. The ministry conducts Bible meetings, prayer meetings, sunday services and revival services. In addition to that, CGM (Japan) encourages young people to participate cultural exchanges and international exchanges, and contribute to society’s social welfare needs through volunteering programs. CGM (Japan) established various volunteer programs, international cultural exchanges and sports exchange conferences.[25]

CGM (Taiwan)

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The CGM established its first Taiwanese church branch in 1988.[26][27] In the late 80s, the CGM spread the gospel throughout Taiwan while actively participating in various social works. The organization was also known as Jesus Morning Star Church (JMS), (Chinese: 晨星會; Hanyu Pinyin: chéngxīng huì; Tongyong Pinyin: chéeng sīn hùei; literally: "Jesus Morning Star Church", 攝理教/攝禮教 (shè lǐ jìao)) or 攝理教會 (Providence Church).[28]

With its growing membership, CGM (Taiwan) first established the Chinese Christian Youth Association (CCYA) (中華基督教新時代青年會) through Taiwan’s Ministry of the Interior, a governmental organization, in November 1993.[29]

The CGM (Taiwan) was formally established on August 4, 2013 and is affiliated with Christian Gospel Mission (CGM).[29] The CGM(Taiwan) reported an active membership of over 4,000, with almost 30 CGM churches throughout Taiwan. News media reported that Taiwan’s membership includes Chen Ming-Jun (陳明俊), who is the Chairman of Taiwan’s largest education chain, Chen-ri Education Foundation (陳立敎育), with 700 employees, 31 branch offices, and about 30,000 members.[30][31][32]

CGM(Taiwan) has also maintained a variety of social groups, including medical teams, professor associations, legal fellowships, soccer and basketball teams, orchestras, praise teams, drama teams, and public service groups.[29]

CGM (Hong Kong)

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CGM has been reported about in Hong Kong, where it is known as The Bright Moon Church (月明教會), with about 100 core members in Hong Kong, including many medical graduates and assistant professors (circa 2006). Providence in Hong Kong created an organisation to run community volunteer activities, known as the United Culture and Arts Network (UCAN).[33][34]

CGM (Australia)

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In 1997, CGM first established in Sydney, Australia.[35] CGM actively recruits new members at the Australian National University. [36][37]

Beliefs

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Basic Teachings

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The CGM believes in the authority of the Bible, that Jesus is the Christ. It emphasizes the importance of sincere faith in God and Jesus, by practicing the Bible’s teachings.[38][39] The CGM believes that the bible is important because without truth in the form of God’s words between God and people, there can be no relationship between God and people. Without God’s truth, people live in chaos and ignorance. Therefore, CGM believes that freedom comes when mankind unites with God, who is the origin of truth, and upon that all people can unite within God’s absolute truth. [40]

CGM emphasizes that religion is not theory but practice, and focuses on teaching its members to live a righteous life, to strive to actualize the teachings of the Bible, and to become the salt and light in families and the society.[39]

Following Jung’s teachings, the CGM believes that God is not only a God of religion, but a God of science, philosophy, literature, arts and culture and everything else. Hence, the Bible has to make sense, not only from a religious standpoint, but also science and philosophy.[1]

CGM’s core beliefs are set out in the 30 Lessons / principles, which is a series of Bible lessons founded by Jung over a period of 30 years. Jung later organized the 30 Lessons into 120 visual charts. The 30 Lessons cover a diverse range of Biblical stories and themes, as well as the history of the Bible. [1] The key emphasis of the 30 lessons is the importance of thorough faith in God and Jesus, as well as the need to put teachings to practice.[41]

One of the 30 Lessons, called the ‘Seven Steps of Law’, teaches that the universe operates absolutely according to these laws. The laws are about: the mineral veins of the mineral kingdom, physiology of the biosystem, physics of the physical world, geography of the earth, astronomy principles of the universe, psychology of human beings, and the truth between God and mankind.[40]

Bible interpretation

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The CGM’s teachings of the Bible divert from literal interpretations of the Bible and traditional Christian views.[1] The CGM believes that the Bible is full of parables and symbols. Therefore, it should not be interpreted literally. The CGM criticizes the traditional literal interpretations of the Bible that have made the Bible mythical.

The CGM teaches that the reason Jesus was persecuted was because the Jewish teachers of the time, did not recognize Jesus as the Messiah because they interpreted the prophecies in the Old Testament, which were written in parables/symbols, literally.[1] The CGM believes that the prophecy of the Messiah coming on the clouds to the Earth is not literal, rather the cloud is a symbol or parable. Clouds are vapors that are evaporated from water through the heat of sunlight. Hence, ‘clouds’ are symbols for people, purified by the ‘sunlight’ of God.[1]

Another example of a Biblical symbol is ‘fire’. Biblical prophecies of the Advent state that the messiah comes to bring fire to the Earth. The CGM interprets the prophecies of ‘fire’ to be not literal ‘fire’, but rather ‘fire’ is a symbol for the words of God. Therefore, they teach that there will be no fiery destruction of the world, but that the Messiah comes with God’s words that can destroy life’s problems and difficulties.[1]

The CGM also teaches that the end times is not the end of the world, but the intersection between the old and beginning of a new era. It teaches that resurrection is not the dead coming back to life, but the spirit coming from death to life through the person believing in God’s words.[1]

Comparison with Unification Church Teachings

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CGM’s 30 lessons are said to bear resemblance to the "Divine Principle" of the Unification Church.[42][43][44][45][46][47] According to one researcher, nine of the 30 lessons exhibit a "considerable level of resemblance" with the Divine Principle.[48][49] Like the Unification Church, the CGM preaches the advent of the "Completed Testament Era". The CGM furthermore allegorizes the relationship between God and man to that between the groom and bride, or two lovers.[50] CGM stated that this refers to a spiritual, not physical relationship.[51]

According to CGM’s publicity director, while there are similarities, there are significant differences when examined closely. Providence teaches that God is male but the Unification Church teaches that God is both a male and female at the same time (androgynous). Also, the CGM teaches about the Holy Trinity, differently to the Unification Church. Unlike the Unification Church, the CGM does not teach that the Holy Spirit is the counterpart of Jesus. The CGM also distances itself from Unification Church’s secularism, superstitions, and vague understanding of Jesus.[52]

Religious Practices

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Giving Glory to God

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Annually, CGM and its members dedicate the first 15 days of the year to give glory to God. Starting from dawn, members from all over the world and all age groups give thanks to God through singing praise songs.[53] During this period, CGM organizes a festival of giving glory through arts, orchestra and choir performances in its retreat center, Wolmyeongdong.[54]

Holy Spirit Movement

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The CGM has held Holy Spirit Movement assemblies which focuses on repentance, receiving the gifts of the Holy Spirit, becoming the salt and light of this world, praying for the nation, and putting Jesus first in one's life.[55][56][57]

Prayer Meetings

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Annually, CGM conducts a March 1st movement (Samil Movement, Korean Independence Day) prayer meeting in Wolmyeongdong that gathers middle and high school students to pray for their nation. This prayer meeting allows the students to build their faith and also, a sense of patriotism for their nation.[58] In 2014, on the 95th anniversary of the Samil movement, CGM conducted a nationwide prayer assembly to pray for its leaders who died for the country, followed by a sports festival to give glory to God.[59] CGM also held a prayer meeting on the 63rd anniversary of the 6.25 war (the day the Korean war started) in Korea to pray for peace and the future of South Korea.[60]

In 2014, CGM held a prayer meeting in the Wolmyeongdong training center to commemorate the victims of the Sinking of MV Sewol and to pray for the survival of its victims. During the prayer meeting, CGM also to commemorated the 4.19 democracy movement (April Revolution), which was the cornerstone of Korean democracy. Thereafter, prayer meetings for the victims of the Sinking of MV Sewol continued daily in CGM churches throughout the world.[61]

Evangelism

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The CGM regularly organizes events for bringing new people to the church, such as the 2011 Festival of Joy, the 2012 Hope of Youth Festival, and the 2013 ‘Rock Gems, Life Gems’ festival.[62] It was reported that these ministry activities have drawn attention from the public because of their diverse contents, such as cultural activities and volunteerism.[1]

CGM's goal is to spread the gospel throughout the world. The CGM conducts a ministry leadership program to train people who wish to lead a life of ministry and service. For that, the CGM set up the World Mission Center, the headquarters for international ministry, which hosts meetings, seminars, research and development and the hub for all administrative matters.[1]

Peace and Culture Activities

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The culture and peace exchange programs set up by the CGM are for breaking down walls between the secular and religious, and to share understandings of God.[1] Representatives or cultural ambassadors are sent throughout the world to introduce Korea to people.[1] These programs are also expressions of thanksgiving, and offering of glory to God.[63]

Sports

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Soccer

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File:CGM (Taiwan) soccer event in 2016.jpg
CGM (Taiwan) soccer event in 2016

CGM organizes regular soccer and sports events, such as the 2006 Asia Peace Cup, the 2007, 2008 and 2009 Global peace soccer and arts festivals, and the 2011 Asia Soccer Meet.[64]

CGM also conducts annual soccer camps for children under the “Milky Way Soccer Club”, for children to learn and play soccer, develop their faith and learn about teamwork.[65]

In 2016, CGM (Taiwan)'s Soccer League organized the “Love and Peace Soccer Tournament National Finals,” in which 17 men’s teams and 4 women’s teams participated. Arts performances such as aboriginal dances and honor guard performances were combined with the soccer league. It also involved Yung-cheng Chen from Chinese Taipei Football Association, ROC (CTFA) to give guidance to the competition.[66]

Volleyball

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CGM organizes regularly volleyball competitions, such the Campus Elite Cup Volleyball Competition (CECVC) in Taiwan. On May 17, the 2nd CECVC was held at National Tsing Hua University and involved 26 teams from various universities, including the National Taiwan Ocean University and the National Sun Yat-sen University.[67]

Cultural Exchange

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Rock Festivals

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Beginning from 2011, CGM held annual Rock Festivals in its retreat center, Wolmyeongdong, to showcase its large rock landscapes and to teach visitors about the value of life. In 2011, CGM’s first Rock Festival attracted more than 40,000 visitors.[68]

In 2013, the third Rock Festival was held in conjunction with a national soccer tournament with over 53 teams and 1,000 soccer players. Various cultural activities were held following the soccer event, including a dance competition, an orchestra performance, a concert and traditional music festival.[69]

Flower Festivals

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CGM organizes annual flower festivals in spring when flowers, including cherry blossoms, bloom in Wolmyeongdong. During the 2015 flower festival, proverbs about God were featured, alongside soccer tournaments, and arts performances.[70] The director of Wolmyeongdong opened the 2016 flower festival with a message that flowers should not lose their fragrance, and in the same way, people of faith must not lose the fragrance of the Trinity in their lives. The public, especially local residents, were welcomed to the event. In 2016, there were almost  21,000 visitors in total.[71]

Bright smile movement

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CGM, through its affiliated Global Association of Culture and Peace, organized the Bright Smile Movement during the 2002 World Cup in response to then-President Kim Dae-jung’s call to his citizens to welcome visitors warmly. CGM believed that this campaign helped to show foreigners that Korean are happy people, in order to change a 500-year long South Korean history of not expressing friendliness through smiling.[72]

Concerts and Theater Performances

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CGM holds theater performances to teach about faith, such as the performance about Jesus, heaven and hell held in the Jangchung Gymnasium in 2009.[73]

In December 2016, CGM’s Peace Symphony Orchestra collaborated with the Heart Road Foundation to organize a charity concert at Chung Hsing Hall in Taichung City, Taiwan. The concert involved traditional music, Aboriginal folk songs, Hokkien songs, Hakka songs and other language elements. The Taiwan Aboriginal Youth Cultural Society and Milky Way Choir were invited as special guests to participate and perform. Aside from donating part of the proceeds to charity, CGM also raised awareness for those in need and those with mental disabilities through an introductory video.[74]

Public Service and Charity Activities

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The public service arm of the Christian Gospel Mission was established to practice the teachings of Jesus who cared for the sick and the poor and healed them through giving the word. CGM pursues programs that strive to put the love of Christ to practice.[1]

CGM focuses on nurturing the youth because it believes that proper guidance to the youth is the key to guaranteeing society’s future. CGM also advocates another aspect of “Peace in the family” with the philosophy of arming the young people with a healthy mentality will enable them to create healthy families in the future. CGM also strives to provide for the needs of neighbors in order to foster attitude of social responsibility and instilling a sense of belonging to the society.[1]

CGM grounds these public service activities in faith, by teaching people the mind of Christ who also served people freely. Each affiliated church runs at least one public service program.[1]

In total, CGM is involved in more than 50 community service programs including the aforementioned movement for family peace, campaigns aimed at creating a healthy society (e.g. anti-suicide campaigns), activities for cleaning up the environment[11], youth guidance and cultural activities, children’s charities[75], restoration of facilities and equipment, blood drives, relief for victims of natural disasters, cost-free medical clinics, assistance for farmers, charities for the poor, assistance for the elderly and disenfranchised, international charities, sponsoring marathons, choir performances, etc. Each month, more than a thousand people are involved in such public service activities throughout the nation as well as numerous activities throughout the 50 member nations. [1]

During the Taean oil spill in 2007, 4,000 CGM members volunteered their services and received a plaque of appreciation from the Minister of Land, Transport and Maritime Affairs.[76]

In 2014, news media reported CGM (Taiwan)’s Lord's Light of Hope Church in Zhongli, Taiwan, held free medical consultations. The event gathered medical staff, doctors and pharmacists who belong to churches from all over Taiwan. Consultations for various diseases, psychotherapy and orthopediatrics was provided.[77]

In 2014, CGM’s Hualien’s Lord’s Love Church held the “CGM Health Education Seminar” in the community center of Yongxing, Hualien, Taiwan. Physical therapist Yue-ying Wu of GuorTaih United Clinic was invited to give a special lecture at the event; free hairdressing services were also provided. An arts proverbs exhibition was set up beside the venue of the seminar, which discussed physical and mental health and the wisdom of life. The exhibition curated proverb-artworks painted by professional artists.[78]

In 2016, the CGM and World Vision Taiwan (WVT) collaborated to form the Mini Scientific Camp, which invited university students to the Kiwit Tribe, Ruisui Township in Hualien County, Taiwan, to teach hundreds of middle and elementary school students about science in their daily life.[79]

In 2016, volunteers from CGM’s “Morning Light Youths Voluntary Group” spent mother’s day at the “Care Home for the Women and Young” in the Wen Shan region, Taiwan, to take care of over 60 stateless children.[75]

Criticisms

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Self-proclaimed messiah

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A japanese sociology professor, Yoshihide Sakurai [ja] analyzed and summarized the CGM’s beliefs relying on documented testimonies as well as interviews with ex-members.[80] He also obtained notes from ex-members which were used in the "bible study", as instructions in the 30 lessons were conventionally called within the "sect".[80] He critiqued CGM’s teachings and wrote that CGM’s 30 principles imply that those who do not "meet" Jung will not go to Heaven, and that those who betray him are committing a grave crime. [81] News reported that the lessons are based on a numerological interpretation which identifies the sect's leader as the Second Coming of Christ.[12][82][83] Sakurai also wrote that during the instruction of the advanced level[a] of the 30 Lessons, Jung is taught to be the Messiah, proven through the numerological interpretation of prophesied dates and times in the book of Daniel.[84]

In 2006, CGM’s publicity director refuted claims that the CGM teaches Jung to be the Messiah. He said that Jung lived centered on Jesus as the Messiah and struggled to live righteously before the Trinity.[85]

In 2010, CGM’s Pastor Park Sung-wook said that CGM and Jung taught members to put Jesus first in their lives, and that the public can dispel misperceptions caused by the media when they witness for themselves the lives of members. Jung was reported to have taught and practiced a life centered on Jesus for over 30 years.[86]

In a 2012 news report, a senior member in the CGM stated, ‘we do not treat President Jung as the messiah. He has been teaching that Jesus is the messiah for over 30 years. There have been misunderstandings about this in the past. However, such is not the case now.’ He attributed such misunderstanding to the misinterpretation of the word (doctrines) by people’s own perspectives, thus failing to see the whole picture, but only interpreting a small portion of the word. Also, CGM said that people interpreted what is meant to be spiritual in a physical way.[87] The doctrines that caused this misunderstanding include the doctrine that salvation that is achieved through loving God and Jesus. However, this love is not the same as the love of the body that the world generally considers love to be. Jung Myung Seok realized about the love between God and man, and he took action to love God first. This is why CGM members call him ‘teacher’. He teaches that everyone who believes in God, just as he does, should love Jesus as their priority in life and should live as a bride of Jesus and also the body of Jesus, putting to practice His will.[87][85]

In 2014, statements from a representative also refuted the claim that Jung is a self-proclaimed messiah by stating that Jung is not the messiah but a human being and has never claimed otherwise. Instead, CGM believes in Jesus as the Messiah and that all Jesus’ followers should strive to become the body of Jesus on earth by doing His work.[88]

Media Allegations, Charges, and Conviction of CGM's President

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(See full article: Media Allegations, Criminal Charges, and Conviction of Jung Myung Seok)

In 1999, a South Korean media company, the Seoul Broadcasting Station (SBS), made sexual allegations against Jung Myung Seok, President of Christian Gospel Mission (CGM). He was accused of ‘fleeing’ the country because of these allegations.[4][5] Following SBS, the media from Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Japan also made other similar allegations against Jung. However, in 2010, in a lawsuit between the SBS and the CGM, the South Korean Court ruled that the 1999 media report was biased and CGM was compensated for the damages.[6] Additionally, in 2015, it was also reported that Jung did not ‘flee’, but travelled overseas lawfully for missionary work, because at the time, the sexual assault charges were dismissed by the prosecutors involved. Jung even returned to Korea several times during his travels and was investigated by the prosecutors about his travels.[89][90]

In 2001, formal charges were made against Jung.[91] In 2006, additional accusations were made against Jung for alleged sexual assault in China. The Chinese authorities investigated and found that there was no evidence to support criminality.[92] In 2007, Jung was arrested in China, after being on interpol’s wanted list.[93]

In 2008, Jung was extradited back to South Korea where he faced five charges of sexual assault and molestation from 5 different women.[94] During the trial, one of the female accusers confessed to falsely accusing Jung of alleged crimes, and dropped her charges with prosecutors.[95] The judge found Jung to be guilty on three out of five charges and sentenced him to 6 years imprisonment in August 2008. [96][97][98] Jung maintained innocence appealed the original decision to the high court.[99] However, the court upheld the sentence, and added an additional count (making it four out of five charges) against Jung, thus increasing the sentence to 10 years.[100][101] After Jung was sentenced, investigative news reports emerged claiming that the judgment against Jung was unjust and without proper evidence.[7][8][9]

It has been claimed that while both Unification Church and CGM teach that Original sin was caused by Eve intercourse with the fallen angel turned Satan, Providence teaches this can be redeemed by having sex with Jung Myung-seok.[102][50][105] The reports stated that the Korean court had deemed that Jung had forced female followers to have sex with him "as a religious behavior meant to save their souls".[b][106] Former members have stated or testified that young and attractive women were presented to Jung as "sexual gifts", with whom he forcibly engaged in sexual act, which was explained to them as a purification rite.[c][93][107] Apart from allegations, there has been no evidence found in Jung’s sermons and teachings that claim that salvation can be redeemed through sexual union with him. Jung’s sermons teach that people should be chaste until marriage, and make loving God as their first priority.[9]

In 2012, ‘anti-JMS’ groups brought new charges against Jung, while he was imprisoned. Those charges were completed dismissed by the Korean court.[108]

In 2013, allegations were made about Jung receiving preferential treatment in prison. Those allegations were also dismissed by the Justice Minister. [109]

Heretical Cult

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The CGM has been widely referred to by the media as a cult.[2][3]

The CGM responded to these allegations and said, ‘the concept of heresy is extremely relative and always changing. In the past, many people of God were unwelcomed by their generation and considered heretics. But yesterday’s heretics have become today’s orthodoxies. Therefore, history has authority to label whether a group is heretical or not. Jung is a man who does his best to follow God’s words, and the CGM members do so likewise.’[1] The CGM also said that Jung and the CGM teaches a life that is centered on Jesus, although its Biblical interpretations may differ from some of the traditional Christian views.[1][110]

Recruitment

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Initiates into the sect are initially approached by being invited into an "activity circle", i.e., sports or music clubs in school; the inductees learn only later when taken to "bible study" that religion constitutes part of the "circle" activity.[111] In this manner, Providence forms non-religious organisations for the purpose of attracting young people without initially revealing the religious nature of the group or their real motives,[22][112][113][d] a practice ruled "fraudulent" under law by the Japanese Supreme Court.[102][114]{{Refn|group="lower-alpha"|Front groups for Providence/Christian Gospel Mission includes: Bright Smile Movement (BSM), China Christian Youth Association (CCYA), Global Association of Culture and Peace (GACP), International Cultural Exchange (ICE), International Culture Interchange Association (ICIA), IOCA, IOCA Modeling, Korean International Cultural Society (KICS), Peace Model Korea (PMK), Peace Model USA (PMUSA), Providence Vision Project (PVP), Sky Soccer, United Culture and Arts Network (UCAN), VIA 3, World Peace Model, Youth Developer Group (YDG)[15]

Exclusivity

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In 2006 the national newspaper Asahi Shimbun reported that Providence is "causing serious social problems in Japan", labeling it as a "cult" and "sect". It also reported that the organization was pressuring members to live together, make regular donations, marry within the organization, and follow the strict guidance of its founder.[112][d]

The group's church usually consisted of a single apartment room, where their religious studies occurred.[23] Sometimes the church was where some of the faithful cohabitated. There were some 40 such churches across Japanese cities as of 2006.[115][112] Members as students working part-time jobs were expected to contribute a minimum of ¥1,000 at weekly church service, and as full-salaried wage-earners, monthly tithes and bonus-time donations.[116] Believers were instructed to live frugally on cheap food and never indulge in alcohol.[116] They were forbidden from dating, but at a suitable time married within the group in mass ceremonies.[112][d] Although the Supreme Court of Japan in 1996 ruled mass weddings performed by the Unification Church were invalid, more than 300 Japanese members of Providence were wed in six mass ceremonies held between 1996 and 2006 modeled on the Unification Church. While being wanted on rape charges, Jung at a July 2003 mass wedding urged the couples via a big-screen Internet connection to have babies to increase the number of Providence members.[117][118]

Police raided eight Providence facilities in Chiba on suspicion a senior member illegally obtained residence status. They also searched a facility in the city's Chuo Ward.[119] The senior member, a Korean, was arrested for overstaying her visa. It was alleged that Providence recruited "high class, high income" men and selected women for "style and looks".[120]

In 2005, the CGM publicly explained that it teaches people to live centering on God’s words, rather than to center on money, fame, alcohol, smoking and sexual immorality.[121][13] In 2010, Pastor Park Sung-Wook of the CGM spoke about the emphasis on living a righteous life, and repenting for corruption, decadence and greed. In 2010, Pastor Park Sung-Wook of the CGM spoke about the emphasis on living a righteous life, and repenting for corruption, decadence and greed.[122]Jung teaches that people should remain chaste until marriage, and always love God as their first priority.[9] Also, it was reported that Jung respects individual free will and embraces those who are defiant towards him and guides them with care.[123]

Explanatory notes

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  1. ^ First 12 lessons are considered introductory and elementary levels, 13–20 intermediate, and 21–30 advanced.(Sakurai 2007c, p. 5)
  2. ^ Supreme Court of South Korea civil suit ruling, January 2008
  3. ^ Seoul Central District Court [ko], criminal trial, 2008. And statements reported in media, 2007.
  4. ^ a b c Asahi Shimbun′s article on July 27, 2006 was followed up by similar coverage in this editorial, issued bilingually: "Another problem cult" [教団のワナにはまるな (lit. "Don't get caught in the religious group's trap")]. Asahi Shimbun (in English and Japanese). August 18, 2006. Archived from the original on October 6, 2014. Retrieved September 10, 2015. The gimmicks the sect uses to increase its membership are nothing new. At university campuses, the sect's recruiters first approach students under the guise of a sports or cultural circle. After building close personal relationships with these students, the members reveal the religious nature of their group and start indoctrinating them. The favorite targets are serious-minded young people who feel alienated from their families and schools and wish to change their lives.

References

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Citations
  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t "Jung Myung Seok - President of the Christian Gospel Mission" (in Korean/English). Sisa News. August 2005. Archived from the original on 1 Feb 2017. Retrieved 23 February 2017.{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: unrecognized language (link)
  2. ^ a b "Asian Cult Leader Arrested". The Australian. May 15, 2007. Retrieved August 24, 2015. Jung, wanted by Korean police for rape, fraud and embezzlement, escaped South Korea in 1999 and was later placed on the Interpol wanted list. He next surfaced in Hong Kong in 2003, where he was charged with being an illegal immigrant, granted bail and fled again – apparently to China. He was caught by police in Anshan, in Liaoning, the Chinese province that borders North Korea. It is believed he has also, while on the run, lived in Italy and Taiwan.
  3. ^ a b "Alleged South Korean Rape Cult Leader Arrested in China". Fox News Channel. Associated Press. May 16, 2007. Retrieved February 27, 2008.
  4. ^ a b Sakurai 2006, p. 142: 民放各社が報じた女性信者と乱舞する鄭明析の映像も加えて。これは1999 年3 月20 日に韓国のテレビ局SBS が視聴率34.4% を記録した特集の映像クリップであり、2 回分2 時間にわたる摂理批判は被害の実態、摂理側の問題隠蔽工作等、余すことなく伝えている。韓国における摂理批判はこの後本格化し、摂理批判と元信者の相談にのるエクソダスも同年に設立されたのである。([My lectures] included the use of the video of Jung Myeong-suk frolicking with female members. This was a video clip from the program devoted [to the topic] aired by the South Korean TV station SBS with 34.4% rating. The two shows running 2 hours long critique of Providence reported comprehensively on the realities of victimization, and Providence's machinations to cover-up the issue. Criticism began full force after this against Providence in South Korea. The same year EXODUS was established, which criticizes Providence and provides counseling to ex-members)
  5. ^ a b c Tamaki, Nanako (玉木 奈々子) (2008), 「摂理」事件に関するテレビ報道の内容分析 [A Content Analysis of TV's Coverage of the Case of "Setsuri"], 宗教研究 (Shūkyō kenkyū), 81 (4): 1209–1210
  6. ^ a b Kim Hyun-gyu (4 April 2012). "Why is Christian Gospel Mission back in the spotlight?" (PDF). Newsmaker. Archived from the original on 1 September 2016. Retrieved 21 February 2017. In litigation, the court found that the broadcasting company had based its report solely on the claims of the Exodus leader. The CGM sued the broadcasting company for damages. The case was taken to the Supreme Court, and on September 9, 2010, the court found in favor of the CGM. The CGM was awarded 90 million won in compensation.
  7. ^ a b "JMS(Christian Gospel Mission) President Jung Myung Seok" (in Korean). Min Jung News. 7 Feb 2010. Archived from the original on 19 Sep 2016. Retrieved 15 February 2017.
  8. ^ a b Moon Il-suk (15 Feb 2015). "Reporter calls for a retrial of Jung Myung Seok's Case" (in Korean). Break News. Archived from the original on 29 October 2016. Retrieved 15 February 2017.
  9. ^ a b c d Cheon Won-ki (31 May 2012). "Is Jung Myung Seok's case social or religious?" (in Korean). Minjung News. Archived from the original on 19 Oct 2014. Retrieved 21 February 2017. The Mission's doctrines are different to some Christian teachings. This has caused controversy from the time the Mission began until now. The doctrine which caused the most conflict was the purpose of creation and the fall. The Mission interprets the account of Adam and Eve eating the fruit of knowledge of good and evil in Genesis as the act of committing sexual sin. The Mission teaches that the law of creation is for a man and a woman to love God as first priority and to grow accordingly, after which they may have sexual relationships after marriage. However, Adam and Eve violated this principle and received punishment. With this as its fundamental doctrine, the Mission has continually taught people to remain chaste until marriage. However, Christianity has been teaching that the fruit of the knowledge of good and evil is a literal fruit, or that it symbolizes other things. The Mission and Christianity do not teach the same on this topic. The purpose of creation and the fall also caused conflict with the DCG. The DCG claimed that President Jung Myung Seok used this theory to teach people that love with God can be restored through sexual union with him, the Messiah. However, there was no evidence to prove this, and so it ended only as an allegation.
  10. ^ a b c d "Christian Gospel Mission: "We actualize God's ideal world on the Earth."" (in Korean). Headline News. June 2005. pp. 128–129. Archived from the original on 15 Feb 2017. Retrieved 23 February 2017. In 1978 when Chairman Jung started his ministry in Seoul, he bore the first fruit of lives in 1980. From that point on, CGM established Korean College Students MS Ministry in 1982, registered with the Korean Jesus Presbyterian Methodist Order in 1983, founded the Korean Jesus Presbyterian Methodist (Truth) organization in 1986, and appointed Chairman Jung as the director. In 1989, it was restructured as the World Youth College Students MS Union, and in 1996, it was re-organized and run as the International Christian Union. In October 1999, with the theme, "The ministry that prays, the ministry that becomes one through the truth, and the ministry that has advanced to the world," it was reconstructed as Christian Gospel Mission, which has been operating until now. They have 400 churches in 22 regional districts throughout the nation and have branched out to 50 foreign nations with a total of 200,000 members worldwide. They are expanding their religious influence as a worldwide ministry.
  11. ^ a b c d "About CGM". Christian Gospel Mission Official Website (in Korean). Retrieved 23 February 2017.
  12. ^ a b c Cheung Chi-fai (July 31, 2003). "Wanted cult leader may be repatriated to South Korea". South China Morning Post. Retrieved March 1, 2014. Mr Jung founded the so-called Ae-Chun Church in 1980 and it became affiliated with the Methodist Church. The church was later expelled from the Christian body and he changed its name to the International Christian Association. Mr Jung also wrote the '30 lessons', which criticise Christian teachings and beliefs and end with his adopting the role of Jesus Christ at the second coming.
  13. ^ a b Kim Myeong-yeok (15 Oct 2013). "A Milestone in the History of Christianity" (in Korean). Environment, Civil Defence, Police News(환경소방경찰신문). p. 8. Archived from the original on 2 Feb 2017. Retrieved 23 February 2017. Despite its brief history, the CGM has around 200,000 members in around 300 churches nationwide. Internationally, it has spread to around 50 countries.
  14. ^ "Providence - God's Intervention, Prevision and Protection". Christian Gospel Mission Official English Website. Retrieved 23 February 2017. The word "Providence" (English, Providence; Latin, Providentia; Greek, pronoia) is not a term seen in the Old and New Testaments. Rather, it is an important theological term that was used by theologians and Christian leaders throughout history. Although they differed in their opinions, overall, they mostly viewed the term "Providence" as either God's administration of nature, history, church and people's lives, or as the immediate provision and concrete concern that God has toward world advancement. Pastor Jung defines the term "Providence" as "God's Will" and "God's history." He emphasizes, "God's history is being carried out on this land. If you are not aware of it, then that history will pass you by in an instant. In following God, be persistent and walk on the path of God's history to the end. Towards the end, God will fulfill His 'Will' and His 'purpose.'"
  15. ^ a b The Apologetics Index (December 31, 2006). "Jung Myung Seok / Providence".
  16. ^ Tahk 1986, p. 120
  17. ^ Sin, Ho-cheol (신호철) (April 23, 2006). "검사가 정명석 돕고 있다?" [Is prosecution assisting Jung Myeong-suk?]. Sisa Journal [시사 저널] (in Korean) (862): 142–149.
  18. ^ a b c Kim Myeong-yeok (15 Oct 2013). "A Milestone in the History of Christianity" (in Korean). Environment, Civil Defence, Police News(환경소방경찰신문). p. 8. Archived from the original on 2 Feb 2017. Retrieved 23 February 2017. On October 3, 2013 at 11am, I visited the Christian Gospel Mission located at 65-21 Wolmyeongdong, Seokmak-ri, Jinsan-myeon, Geumsan-gun, Chungcheongnam-do, to cover a story. Upon entering the mountainous region, I was surprised by the well-organized facilities and buildings on this large area of land that was about 991,735m2 . Officials of the church were explaining their doctrines to members who were visiting from all regions. The listeners appeared sincere. I unexpectedly met notable people there: Han Wha-Gab, the President of the Foundation for East and West Cooperation, the former member of the Peace and Democracy Party and the Democratic Party; So Won-Sook, the President of the head office of the International central association for law; Choi Young-Wook, the former Professor of Sungkyul Christian University, Oh Gyo-Han, Professor of Danguk University; Jung Myeong-Ho, the President of the institute of Deoknan Cultural Heritage Studies; Yi Young-In, the head of the Beijing Museum in China. The Wolmyeongdong retreat center is the Natural Temple built by President Jung Myung Seok along with CGM members. The Natural Temple was constructed over 10 years. It has become an international tourist attraction with hundreds of thousands of visitors from home and abroad vising every year. Summer retreats are held every year when young people come to train their minds and bodies. Also, annual flower festivals and rock festivals are held every spring and autumn, with its beautiful natural scenery.
  19. ^ "Newly Changing Christian Gospel Mission". Newsmaker. 7 July 2010. Archived from the original on 21 Feb 2017. Retrieved 24 Feb 2017. '모든 구상은 하나님, 감동은 성령님, 보호는 예수그리스도' '이 모든 구상은 하나님, 감동은 성령님, 보호는 예수그리스도, 기술실천은 나와 제자들', 앞산 돌조경에 새겨진 머릿글은 기독교복음선교회의 수련원 월명동이 어떻게 만들어졌는지를 한눈에 알 수 있게 한다. 특히 수련원 안에 사람들이 가장 잘 보이는 곳에 세워진 예수님 상이 인상적이다. You can understand how the Christian Gospel Mission's retreat center, Wolmyeongdong, was made through the inscriptions on the rock landscape at the front mountain which writes "All these have been designed by God, inspired by the Holy Spirit, protected by the Lord Jesus Christ, and we have worked as their hands and as their feet." In particular, there is a statue of Jesus which stands at a prominent place in Wolmyeongdong.
  20. ^ a b "Jung Myung Seok - President of the Christian Gospel Mission" (in Korean/English). Sisa News. August 2005. Archived from the original on 1 Feb 2017. Retrieved 23 February 2017. Even as late as the early 1900's the region was an abandoned remote mountain village that people rarely visited. Now, the numbers of members who visit every year are staggering. It has been transformed into a place visited by hundreds of thousands of people per year. In the summertime the conference center hosts all types of performances. It also serves as a venue for sporting events as well as a place to improve one's physical health. In the wintertime it is possible sled and ski along with many other types of winter activities. For that reason, the conference center is considered by members to be a natural resting place for all seasons.{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: unrecognized language (link)
  21. ^ "History". CGM (Japan) Official Website (in Japanese). CGM (Japan). Retrieved 23 February 2017. 1985年 - 日本支部設立 (1985, Japanese Branch Established)
  22. ^ a b "Alleged Cult Sows Seeds Via Campus Event |". The Guardian, University of California, San Diego, USA. November 13, 2006. Archived from the original on March 6, 2014. Retrieved March 1, 2014. Members of a controversial religious group, led by an international fugitive wanted for numerous instances of alleged rape and sexual assault of female members, recently held an event at UCSD, which included a modeling show featuring young women, singing and videotaped religious messages from the group's founder – hallmarks of the group's tactics to recruit new members. The group, known as the Global Association of Culture and Peace, was established by 61-year-old South Korean national Jung Myung Seok, who also goes by the name Joshua Jung. The group, widely regarded by international press as a cult, also goes by several other names, including JMS, Providence, Setsuri and the Bright Smile Movement.
  23. ^ a b "Lawyers eye cult rape accusations". Japan Times. July 31, 2006. Retrieved August 31, 2015. South Korean authorities have put Jung, 61, on an international wanted list on rape charges. Watanabe said the head of Setsuri persuaded Japanese women to join the cult, introduced them to Jung and took them to Jung's hideout. Jung allegedly raped the women, Watanabe said, while they were under mind control.
  24. ^ "정명석 총재의 자연 성전 '감동스런 성전'(Chairman Jung Myung Seok's Natural Temple an "Inspirational Temple")". Breaknews. 17 May 2010. Archived from the original on 21 Feb 2017. Retrieved 24 Feb 2017. 이미 일본이나 대만 등의 성도 수는 3천명을 넘어섰다고. Countries like Japan, Taiwan, have more than 3000 members.
  25. ^ "History". CGM (Japan) Official Website (in Japanese). CGM (Japan). Retrieved 23 February 2017. We believe in Jesus Christ and have a mission to convey that love and the gospel. Learning the Bible, praying and sacrificing, we are holding meetings such as Sunday worship and revival competitions. In addition, we are engaged in cultivating young people through cultural exchange and international exchange activities and contributing to society through social welfare activities. Also in Japan, activities such as various volunteer activities, international cultural exchanges and sports exchange conferences are held, and many people have been filled with their love, spirit and vibrancy. And now, at the gatherings held to receive the Holy Spirit, the power of praise, word and prayer is full, each one is born again by the Holy Spirit, and the work of great growth is occurring.
  26. ^ "Founder's Biography". CGM Official English Website. CGM. Retrieved 23 February 2017. 1988.01 Established church branch in Taiwan
  27. ^ 海外宣教 [Foreign missionary work]. 總會長的點點滴滴 [The President-General's drips and drabs] (in Chinese). 中華基督教新時代青年會CCYA(攝理教會). Archived from the original on March 28, 2006. Retrieved April 22, 2006. 台灣的宣教活動自從1988年開始
  28. ^ "zh:立案證書" [Application certificate] (in Chinese). 中華基督教新時代青年會CCYA(攝理教會).
  29. ^ a b c "About CGM Taiwan". Christian Gospel Mission Official English Website. CGM (Taiwan). Retrieved 23 February 2017. Established on August 4, 2013 and affiliated with Christian Gospel Mission, Christian Gospel Mission Taiwan (CGM, Taiwan), includes a group of Providence churches that are active in gospel-related missions. Providence maintains Biblical doctrine that emphasizes the fundamental Will of God and God's relationship with humanity. In the late 80s, Providence started to spread the gospel throughout Taiwan while actively participating in various social work. In order to organize the growing number of churches in Taiwan, our first approach was to establish the Chinese Christian Youth Association (CCYA) from the Ministry of the Interior in November 1993. Later on, in order to advance together with our sister church in Korea, we established Christian Gospel Mission, Taiwan in August 2013 to continue our church affairs. We currently have over 4,000 active members and close to 30 Providence churches and gospel stations in Taiwan. As a collective, we have maintained various social groups, including medical teams, professor associations, legal fellowships, soccer and basketball teams, orchestras, praise teams, drama teams, and public service groups. By offering a number of programs and opportunities through culture, art, sports, and Bible studies, CGM hopes to share God's love for humankind and spread the gospel of the time period.
  30. ^ "Taiwan's talented entrepreneur, Chen-Ri Education Foundation's Chairman Chen Ming-jun대만의 천재(天才)기업인, 陳立敎育의 진명준'(陳明俊)회장". Daehan News. 15 October 2009. Archived from the original on 23 Feb 2017. Retrieved 23 February 2017.
  31. ^ "주님의 어깨 위에서 더 멀리 볼 수 있습니다" (in Korean). Dynamic Korea News. 2 November 2009. Retrieved 23 February 2017. 천 이사장은 1982년 대만달러 7만원(한화 약 250만원)으로 천리교육재단의 전신인 만학재(勵學齋)를 세우면서 교육사업에 뛰어들어 현재 700명의 직원과 30000여명의 회원을 보유한 대만 최대 '천리교육재단'을 운영하고 있다.
  32. ^ "Do you know Teacher Chen-Ri?" (in Korean). 21 December 2009. Archived from the original on 23 Feb 2017. Retrieved 23 February 2017. 천리 선생이라 불리는 천리교육재단(陳立文教機構) 천밍쥔(陳明俊) 이사장은 1982년 대만달러 7만원(한화 약 250만원)으로 천리교육재단의 전신인 만학재(勵學齋)를 세우면서 교육사업에 뛰어들었다. 현재는 700명의 직원, 31개의 지사, 30000여명의 회원을 보유한 대만 최대 '천리교육재단'을 운영하고 있지만 그 과정에서 많은 난관과 어려움이 있었다.
  33. ^ "韓邪教港核心成員逾百" [Korean cult core members reach 100 in Hong Kong]. 東方日報專訊 (Oriental Daily News). Hong Kong. October 2, 2006. Archived from the original on November 16, 2006. Retrieved November 16, 2006.
  34. ^ Fan, Wai Kit (范偉潔) (September 20, 2006). "韓邪教襲港 吸大學尖子 變身「月明教會」 醫科生家人求助" [Korean cult attacks Hong Kong, recruits elites at university, transformed 'Wol Myeong Church' aids med student families]. Hong Kong Economic Times. Retrieved September 12, 2015.
  35. ^ Tozer, Joel (April 9, 2014). "Extracts of Correspondence With Providence Representative in South Korea". Scribd.com. Retrieved August 31, 2015.
  36. ^ ""성폭행범이 이끄는 한국의 밀교" - 기독교포털뉴스". Kportalnews.co.kr. April 10, 2014. Retrieved August 31, 2015.
  37. ^ Tozer, Joel (April 9, 2014). "Inside Providence: The secretive Korean church led by a convicted rapist". Sbs.com.au. Retrieved August 31, 2015.
  38. ^ "Christian Gospel Mission's Jung Myung Seok who fulfill's God's will through the new words" (PDF). Weekly People News. 6 April 2006. Archived from the original on 24 Feb 2017. Retrieved 24 Feb 2017. We must believe in Jesus, follow Jesus, follow him, and go to the place where he is," he said. "Those who have made earthly heaven in this land eventually go to heaven. It is time to live like this and to exhort one another to live like that as the perfect bride of heaven.
  39. ^ a b "Newly Changing Christian Gospel Mission". Newsmaker. 7 July 2010. doi:Korean (inactive 28 February 2022). Archived from the original on 21 Feb 2010. Retrieved 25 February 2017. "성경은 하나님의 말씀이다. 성경의 뜻은 구원과 사랑이다. 예수님만이 인류사에 유일한 구원주이며, 그리스도시다... 아울러 선교회는 '종교는 이론이 아니라 실천'임을 강조하여 가정과 사회 속에서 빛과 소금의 사명을 다하는 신앙인의 올바른 삶에 중점을 두고 있다. "The Bible is God's Word. The will of the Bible is salvation and love. Only Jesus is the only savior in human history, Christ. Humans can never be the Messiah. We must love God with all our souls, our hearts, our will and our lives, and we must love our brothers with all our hearts, our will and our lives... In addition, CGM emphasizes 'religion is not theory but practice', and focuses on the righteous life of the faithful who fulfills the mission of light and salt in the family and society." {{cite news}}: |archive-date= / |archive-url= timestamp mismatch; 21 February 2017 suggested (help); Check |doi= value (help)CS1 maint: DOI inactive as of February 2022 (link)
  40. ^ a b "Christian Gospel Mission: "We actualize God's ideal world on the Earth."" (in Korean). Headline News. June 2005. pp. 128–129. Archived from the original on 15 Feb 2017. Retrieved 23 February 2017. CGM is evangelizing with the creed, "Take action upon the Bible and make it your lifestyle." One of the 30 Principles, "the Seven Steps of the Law," explains that all the existing worlds are created strictly and absolutely according to the laws, and emphasizes that these worlds cannot be sustained if they don't adhere to the laws. It says, "There is a law called the vein of ore in the mineral kingdom, there is a law called physiology in the biosystem, there is a law called physics in the physical world, there is a law called geography in the earth system, there is a law called principle in the system of the universe, there is a law called psychology in the world of human beings, and there is a law called the truth between God and human beings, whereby if people don't adhere to that law, they will be unable to exist. In particular, if the law of truth that exists between man and God is violated, the relationship between human spirits and God will break. Since human beings lost the truth, they ended up living in chaos, and because they didn't know what the truth was, they came to ignore the law and weren't afraid of God's law and customs. Therefore, true freedom comes when human beings become one with the Original Being of truth. All mankind can become one with each other within the absolute truth."
  41. ^ "Christian Gospel Mission's Jung Myung Seok who fulfill's God's will through the new words" (PDF). Weekly People News. 6 April 2006. Archived from the original on 24 Feb 2017. Retrieved 24 Feb 2017. 정 총재가 오랜 수도생활 끝에 하늘로부터 받은 말씀을 정리한 '30개론'은 성경을 시대성과 역사성에 입각해 해석함으로써 하나님의 말씀을 시대와 공간을 뛰어넘는 참 진리라는 것을 일깨워주고 있다. 또한 궁극적으로는 하나님과 예수님에 대한 철저한 믿음과 말씀의 실천을 강조하고 있어 예수 그리스도의 종교임을 부인 할 수 없게 하고 있다." The '30 Lessons' which summarizes the words Jung received from the heavens after a long period of struggling, interpreting the Bible on the basis of time and history. Ultimately, it also emphasizes a thorough belief and practice of the Word of Jesus and God, and cannot be denied as a religion of Jesus Christ.
  42. ^ "South Korean cult merges sex with prayer". Kyodo News Service, Japan. July 27, 2006. Archived from the original on April 23, 2008. Retrieved May 13, 2016. Jung honed his sagely credentials as an acolyte of South Korea's Unification Church. ... Its Bible-based teaching is similar to that of the Unification Church but departs from it. (Kyodo's story sources the July 28, 2006 issue of Friday [ja] weekly magazine).
  43. ^ Luca 1997, pp. 14–: "On y apprend que JMS est un ancien adepte de la ‘secte Moon’".
  44. ^ Luca, Nathalie (March 2002). "After the Moon sect: South Korea and indoctrination through the sacred game of football". CNRS. Retrieved February 27, 2008.
  45. ^ Sakurai (2007b).
  46. ^ Hyundae Jongyo (2007).
  47. ^ Sim, Chang-seop (심창섭) (1997). 기독교의이단들 [Christian Heresies] (in Korean). 대한예수교장로회총회. p. 274. ISBN 978-89-88327-28-9.
  48. ^ Sakurai (2006), p. 143–144: "研究家、卓明煥『キリスト教異端研究』(1986)によれば..14,17,19,20,26,27,28,29,30 の各章に統一教会の『原理講論』と相当程度の類似がある。(According to Tahk Myeong-hwan, Study of Christian cults (1986).. chapters 14, 17, 19, 20, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 contain considerable levels of similarity with the Unification Church's "The Divine Principle")
  49. ^ Tahk 1986, 기독교 이단 연구 [Study on Christian cults]
  50. ^ a b Sakurai (2007c), pp. 5–6.
  51. ^ Kim Hyun-gyu (4 April 2012). "Why is Christian Gospel Mission back in the spotlight?" (PDF). Newsmaker. Archived from the original on 1 September 2016. Retrieved 21 February 2017. The senior member in CGM stated, 'Such misunderstandings arose because people interpreted the word (doctrines) by their own perspectives. They failed to see the whole picture, but only interpreted a small portion of the word. Also, they interpreted what is meant to be spiritual in a physical way, hence, causing this misunderstanding.' The next question would be – what kind of doctrines could have caused these misunderstandings? The senior member responded, 'we teach that salvation is achieved through loving God and Jesus. This love is not the same as the love of the body that the world generally considers love to be.
  52. ^ "Christian Gospel Mission's Jung Myung Seok who fulfill's God's will through the new words" (PDF). Weekly People News. 6 April 2006. Archived from the original on 24 Feb 2017. Retrieved 24 Feb 2017. 무엇보다도 통일교는 하나님관에 있어 하나님의 존재를 남성과 여성의 중화적 존재자로 보고 있지만, 정 총재는 한 단계 더 깊이 들어가 하나님은 상대 이성성상으로 존재하고 계심을 가르치고 있다. 또한 성령의 근본체에 대한 통일교의 입장은 예수님의 상대성인 여성신임을 주장하지만, 정 총재는 성령은 하나님의 신적 사랑의 상대체로 모성신임을 근본적으로 밝혀주고 있다. 이상에서 살펴본 바와 같이 하나님을 믿는 종교에서 하나님에 대한 관이 다른데 통일교의 아류라고 말하는 것은 잘못된 편견이며 억지 주장에 불구할 뿐이다. 통일교는 너무 육적이고 물질에 치우쳐 세속적이며 미신적인 요소도 가지고 있다. 그들에게는 말씀은 있으나 예수님이 희미해 우상적이라고 볼 수도 있다.
  53. ^ Oh, Ha-neul (27 Jan 2015). "JMS Christian Gospel Mission celebrates 15 days of the "Days of God" JMS 기독교복음선교회 15일간 '하나님의 날' 절기 행사 치러". Newswave. Archived from the original on 18 Jan 2017. Retrieved 24 Feb 2017.
  54. ^ "Big festival of God's Glory, Live Broadcasted to over 50 nations 하나님 영광의 대축제, 세계 50여개국에 인터넷 생중계". Daehan News. 18 August 2009. Archived from the original on 2 Feb 2017. Retrieved 24 Feb 2017.
  55. ^ "기독교복음선교회의 스타(Star)목사 ´정조은´ .. 인기 "짱 !"" (in Korean). NewsCan. 18 July 2009. Archived from the original on 2 Feb 2017. Retrieved 25 February 2017. According to the Christian Gospel Mission, the motivation for holding the conference nationwide is largely divided into three. The first is to repent of his own sin, the second is the light and salt of the world, and the third is to pray for the nation and the world.
  56. ^ "CGM's 2nd takeoff 기독교복음선교회의 제2의 도약(Take-Off)" (in Korean). Daehan News. 18 July 2009. Archived from the original on 2 Feb 2017. Retrieved 25 February 2017.
  57. ^ "Newly Changing Christian Gospel Mission" (in Korean). Newsmaker. 7 July 2010. Archived from the original on 21 Feb 2010. Retrieved 25 February 2017. CGM said that the Holy Spirit Movement spiritual revival movement in which "we repent completely and are born of the Holy Spirit and put Jesus first in our lives". The powerful message of Jesus Christ's love and repentance toward human beings in the Holy Spirit movement at Heaven has received a great response across all religions. The Mission is taking the initiative in repenting the reality of the loss of humanity caused by corruption, corruption, pleasure and greed, as it sees various disasters taking place throughout the globe as a warning message from God. {{cite news}}: |archive-date= / |archive-url= timestamp mismatch; 21 February 2017 suggested (help)
  58. ^ Choi, Chae-won (5 March 2010). "CGM meets the spring rains nurturing the "Love for the Nation" 기독교복음선교회 봄비를 맞으며 키우는 '나라사랑'". CNB News. Archived from the original on 6 Feb 2017. Retrieved 25 Feb 2017. As the rain that announces the spring goes down with the wind, the prayer for the Samil Movement, which is hotter than ever, was held at Wolmyeongdong Training Center in Geumsan County, Chungnam Province. The Prayer Meeting is the annual prayer meeting held every year on the Sunday of each month. It was a time to build strong and heartfelt patriotism like the spring rain that moistened the hearts of young people who wanted to become Christians who reclaimed the meaning and spirit of Samil movement, by praying for their country, and practicing love.
  59. ^ "CGM Organizes National Prayer Meet on the 95th Anniversary of March 1st event 기독교복음선교회 95주년 3.1절 구국기도회개최". News Wave. 7 March 2014. Archived from the original on 18 Jan 2017. Retrieved 25 Feb 2017.
  60. ^ "JMS 기독교복음선교회 '63주년 6.25기념' 연합기도회". News Wave. Archived from the original on 18 Jan 2017. Retrieved 25 Feb 2017.
  61. ^ "CGM conducts memorial prayer meet for the victims of the Sinking of Sewol 기독교복음선교회 세월호 희생자 추모기도회 개최". News Wave. 25 April 2014. Archived from the original on 18 Jan 2017. Retrieved 25 February 2017.
  62. ^ "About Christian Gospel Mission". Official Christian Gospel Mission Website. Retrieved 25 Feb 2017.
  63. ^ "Christian Gospel Mission: "We actualize God's ideal world on the Earth."" (in Korean). Headline News. June 2005. pp. 128–129. Archived from the original on 15 Feb 2017. Retrieved 23 February 2017. In addition, we consider culture and art as a gift from God to His beloved ones, so we put a lot of effort into culture and art activities as an expression of thanksgiving to God.
  64. ^ "About Christian Gospel Mission". Official Christian Gospel Mission Website. Retrieved 25 Feb 2017.
  65. ^ "Christian Gospel Mission's Children Soccer Camp "Go away Cold!"기독교복음선교회 어린이 축구캠프, '추위야 물러가라!'" (in Korean). Yonhap News. 28 Jan 2010. Archived from the original on 6 Feb 2017. Retrieved 26 February 2017. Children 'Milky Way Soccer Club', an organization affiliated with the Christian Gospel Mission Society, aims to educate children who are susceptible to falling into games and the Internet during vacation, with a total of four sessions from January 2 to 30, I opened a winter soccer camp. The Milky Way Football Club is a pure amateur club with 4th and 6th graders in elementary schools and has a soccer classroom nationwide. Every year, it holds many football games by hosting the Milky Way Soccer Contest and the GCM Youth Soccer Contest.
  66. ^ 蘇, 松濤 (25 April 2016). "日韓同台近千人集氣足球賽事嘉年華─TCGM展現愛與和平的足球文化 Soccer Match Carnival: Gathering a Thousand People from Three Countries". CDNews. Archived from the original on 26 Feb 2017. Retrieved 25 Feb 2017. In order to promote soccer as a sport and to support Taiwanese soccer, elite soccer players from Japan and Korea came to Taiwan for an international exchange match at the Fu Jen Catholic University Stadium, which attracted nearly one thousand people. Last year during the World Cup Asian zone qualifier, Taiwanese offered full support for the event and soccer fever gripped the nation. In order to keep breeding the atmosphere, Christian Gospel Mission Taiwan's Soccer League (CGM Taiwan's SL) organized "Love and Peace Soccer Tournament National Finals," in which 17 men's teams and 4 women's teams participated; one of which was Korean. There were not only aboriginal dances and honor guard performances, but also creative art performances combined with the soccer. It was like a soccer carnival. Yung-cheng Chen from Chinese Taipei Football Association, ROC (CTFA) had also came to give competition guidance. The event organizer Chun-yen Yang expressed his hopes of demonstrating a healthy and positive exercising atmosphere through the combination of soccer and artistic events, and his hopes of equipping others with good mindsets and attitudes through soccer, so that on or off the soccer field, one can demonstrate the "Love and Peace" soccer culture. A guest at the event expressed, "The grand scale of this soccer tournament, which bridges three countries (Taiwan, Japan and Korea) is rare to see. The whole soccer carnival is full of vitality. I hope that the power of goodness can help change Taiwan's soccer environment."
  67. ^ "Campus Elite Volleyball Competition: Advocate Peace Through Sports". CDNews. Archived from the original on 26 Feb 2017. Retrieved 26 Feb 2017. On May 17, the 2nd CECVC was held at National Tsing Hua University. This event also set many records: 1) This unofficial nation-wide competition, launched in the shortest amount of time in planning, was entirely organized and planned by TCGM student members, and gathered those from the island's north, National Taiwan Ocean University to the island's south, National Sun Yat-sen University. 2) It completed all of its competitions within the shortest amount of time; all 26 teams finished within one day. The eventful competitions demonstrated the passionate true colors back-to-school students are capable of showing through sports. In addition, the art department of TCGM carefully planned an "Art Proverbs Exhibition," which selected 37 valuable proverbs related to the wisdom of life and to the importance of developing peoples' hearts, minds and thoughts. Exquisite artworks painted by Taiwan's professional artists were also shown in the exhibition. Taiwanese college students not only need physical exercise, but also need to exercise their brains through TCGM's detailed designs.
  68. ^ Kim, Ka-lim (14 September 2012). "The Opening of Christian Gospel Mission's "2nd Rock Festival" 기독교복음선교회 '제2회 돌보석축제' 개최". Daily UNN. Archived from the original on 25 Feb 2017. Retrieved 25 Feb 2017. {{cite news}}: |archive-date= / |archive-url= timestamp mismatch; 26 February 2017 suggested (help)
  69. ^ Ki, Sa-yib (5 November 2013). "기독교복음선교회(총재 정명석),월명동 돌보석 생명보석 축제 성료". Uri News (우리들 뉴스). Archived from the original on 25 Feb 2017. Retrieved 25 Feb 2017. {{cite news}}: |archive-date= / |archive-url= timestamp mismatch; 26 February 2017 suggested (help)
  70. ^ Ki, Sa-yib (25 May 2015). "Christian Gospel Mission "Flower Festival" 기독교복음선교회 '꽃여왕축제'". Bodo News. Archived from the original on 26 Feb 2017. Retrieved 26 Feb 2017.
  71. ^ Oh, Ha-neul (20 June 2016). "About the Christian Gospel Mission's "2016 Flower Festival"기독교복음선교회 '2016 명꽃 축제' 열려". News Wave. Archived from the original on 18 Jan 2017. Retrieved 26 Feb 2017.
  72. ^ Quartly, Jules (13 June 2002). "Smiling a serious business in South Korea". Taipei Times. Retrieved 25 Feb 2017.
  73. ^ Yi, Myeong-kun (26 Sep 2009). "The musical theater of stage creation 'Heaven and Hell'극단 창조무대의 뮤지컬 연극 ´천국과 지옥´". News Can. Archived from the original on 2 Feb 2017. Retrieved 26 Feb 2017.
  74. ^ "CGM's Charity Concert: Spreading Peace Through Music in Hopes of a Loving Society". ANews. 12 December 2016. Archived from the original on 26 Feb 2017. Retrieved 26 Feb 2017. The atmosphere was joyous and festive as the year end rolled in. In this festive environment, the charity concert organized by Christian Gospel Mission (CGM) (headed by President and Founder Jung Myung Seok) and CGM Peace Symphony Orchestra closed on a good note. This concert took place on Dec 10 at Chung Hsing Hall in Taichung City. To spread awareness about the people in society who require assistance, (CGM) collaborated with Heart Road Foundation for the first time. Aside from donating ten yuan of each ticket that is sold to charity, CGM also raised awareness for those in need and those with mental disabilities through an introductory video. A little more care can make our society a warmer place. The Taiwan Aboriginal Youth Culture Exchange sent out the Amis Tribe, Bunun Tribe and Paiwan Tribe to perform as a collaborative for this concert "Love, Peace, Hope" was the main theme that was present throughout the entire concert. Melodious traditional music, Aboriginal folk songs, Hokkien songs, Hakka songs and other language elements diversely demonstrated the true meaning of "love." The Taiwan Aboriginal Youth Cultural Society and Milky Way Choir were invited as special guests to participate and perform. Founded in 1996, the Taiwan Aboriginal Youth Cultural Society sent out the Amis, Bunun and Paiwan Tribe to perform as a collaborative.
  75. ^ a b Zheng Lisi (31 May 2016). "CGM Brings Laughter to 60 Stateless Children關愛之家婦幼部帶60多位無國籍的孩童歡笑" (in Chinese). Next Magazine. Archived from the original on 23 Feb 2017. Retrieved 26 February 2017. From early May, people have had Mother's Day weighing on their minds. On Labor Day's substitute holiday May 2, Christian Gospel Mission's Morning Light Volunteer Group (Volunteer Group), an organization unlike any other, volunteered at the Wenshan Shelter for Women and Children of Harmony Home Association, Taiwan (Harmony Home). With the mindset of Pastor Jung Myung Seok, founder and president of the Christian Gospel Mission (CGM), and with their actual actions, the Volunteer Group became one-day parent volunteers and brought laughter and warmth to the nearly 60 stateless children.
  76. ^ "Newly Changing Christian Gospel Mission" (in Korean). Newsmaker. 7 July 2010. Archived from the original on 21 Feb 2010. Retrieved 25 February 2017. In order to carry on the life of Jesus' life of love, CGM volunteers are being performed throughout the country, starting with the gunmen. Participation in rice break sharing campaign, free medical service, park cleaning, blood donation campaign, urban environment improvement, national love environment campaign, bus platform cleaning, mental retardation facility service, and more than 30 services The program is actively operated by each regional branch. At the time of the Taean oil spill in 2007, 4,000 members voluntarily volunteered their volunteer activities and received a plaque of appreciation from the Minister of Land, Transport and Maritime Affairs. The social contribution activities of the Mission Society have received numerous awards from national governments. {{cite news}}: |archive-date= / |archive-url= timestamp mismatch; 21 February 2017 suggested (help)
  77. ^ "Free Medical Consultations: Psychotherapy Appreciated". United Daily News (Taiwan). 26 April 2014.
  78. ^ Wang, Chih-wei (14 June 2014). "Health Education: Welcomed by the Elderly". Eastern Daily News. Retrieved 25 Feb 2017.
  79. ^ Tuan, Hung-yu (30 Jan 2016). "Science Camp for the Aboriginal Children Filled with Education and Fun". United Daily News. Archived from the original on 26 Feb 2017. Retrieved 26 Feb 2017. Christian Gospel Mission (CGM) and World Vision Taiwan (WVT) collaborated to form the Mini Scientific Camp, which invited university students to the Kiwit Tribe, Ruisui Township in Hualien County, to teach hundreds of middle and elementary school students "the things you don't learn at school," through interesting events in their daily life. This fusion of studies with daily life enables the children's winter break to be filled with intellectual depth and fun. Due to a lack of educational resources and funding in rural areas, from Jan. 27 until yesterday, CGM and World Vision Taiwan gathered students from universities such as National Taiwan University, National Taiwan Normal University, National Chengchi University, and National Taiwan University of Science and Technology to lead students in a three day event at the Kiwit Tribe.
  80. ^ a b Sakurai (2007c), p. 5.
  81. ^ Sakurai (2007c), p. 4: Lessons 20 and 22
  82. ^ Chong, Sin-dae (총신대) (July 4, 2014). "정명석에 대한 신학적 비판" [Theological critique of Jeongmyeongseok]. Cult Research Committee (in Korean). Christian Portal News. Archived from the original on March 16, 2015. Retrieved August 24, 2015.
  83. ^ Tahk 1986, p. 120
  84. ^ Sakurai (2007c), p. 7: :"2.4 再臨主の弁証 - ...688 + 1290(ダニエル書12:11,日を年に換算)= 1978 年。第二イスラエル民族の霊的開放。鄭明析が伝道を開始した。だから,鄭明析こそ,再臨のメシアに他ならないという。(2.4 Proof of Messiah... 688 + 1290 (Daniel 12:11, days converted to years) = Year 1978. The spirial emancipation of the Second Israelites. Jung Myung-seok initiated its evangelism. Therefore, Jung Myung-seok can be none other than the Second Coming of the Savior, so they say."
  85. ^ a b "Christian Gospel Mission's Jung Myung Seok who fulfill's God's will through the new words" (PDF). Weekly People News. 6 April 2006. Archived from the original on 24 Feb 2017. Retrieved 24 Feb 2017. Pastor Bae Jae-yong Bae, a pastor of the Christian Gospel Mission, met with reporters, saying, "Jung waited for the coming of Jesus, who is the Messiah. He was determined to be the most loving Jesus in the world, and he met Him personally in the process of struggling to live righteous and good, and received the wisdom and truth of salvation and life-saving salvation while serving Jesus as a lover. The only teacher of Jung was only God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit.
  86. ^ "Newly Changing Christian Gospel Mission". Newsmaker. 7 July 2010. Archived from the original on 21 Feb 2010. Retrieved 25 February 2017. People are curious as to why the missions are growing in spite of media reports and misunderstandings. It can only be found through the life and teachings of the governor centered on Jesus. Even though the governor is in a difficult situation, he is happy even now. The reason is that Jesus always feels that he is with me. " Through the teachings of the governor, the members of the Mission are learning and practicing in the real life that, in any circumstance, the peak of their lives, and the highest point of their actions, are placed at the forefront of their lives. It is the power of the mission and the capital that is the only life that lives on Jesus first. People who misunderstood the misconception of some missions by some media misunderstandings and bias reports will come to see the power and spirit of a mission society that is educated and operated only with Jesus. The mission of the mission is still expanding and will continue in the future. It is a history that human beings can not do. Only Jesus is leading and leading all things. {{cite news}}: |archive-date= / |archive-url= timestamp mismatch; 21 February 2017 suggested (help)
  87. ^ a b Kim Hyun-gyu (4 April 2012). "Why is Christian Gospel Mission back in the spotlight?" (PDF). Newsmaker. Archived from the original on 1 September 2016. Retrieved 21 February 2017. A senior member in the CGM stated, 'we do not treat President Jung as the Messiah. He has been teaching that Jesus is the Messiah for over 30 years. There were misunderstandings about this in the past. However, such is not the case.' Then how could such misunderstandings have arisen? To this, the senior member in CGM stated, 'Such misunderstandings arose because people interpreted the word (doctrines) by their own perspectives. They failed to see the whole picture, but only interpreted a small portion of the word. Also, they interpreted what is meant to be spiritual in a physical way, hence, causing this misunderstanding.' The next question would be – what kind of doctrines could have caused these misunderstandings? The senior member responded, 'we teach that salvation is achieved through loving God and Jesus. This love is not the same as the love of the body that the world generally considers love to be. President Jung was the first to realize about the love between God and man, and he took action to love God ahead of all others. This is why we call him 'teacher'. He teaches that everyone who believes in God, just as he does, should love Jesus as their priority in life and should live as a bride of Jesus and also the body of Jesus. The claim that President Jung is Jesus in the body is erroneous. Actually, President Jung's life is a life of putting to practice Jesus' will; he takes action as Jesus once did, and this is what it means to be Jesus' body, a being who no longer has a physical body.' To support this point, he showed corroborating evidence. He also added that, 'Many young people have been given the opportunity to exhibit their artistic talents on stage, such as through modelling, music and contemporary dance, as a way of expressing their heart towards God, rather than to let their talents be used for the world. The free and youthful spirits of the young cannot be curbed by the holy and rigid traditions of the old generation. With this freedom to give glory to God using their talents, young people no longer need to live two separate lives of attending church on Sundays, while enjoying the rotten cultures of the world at nightclubs and karaoke on other days. This allows them to reconcile their way of life and their faith, with holiness and piety as the foundation. This makes for true devotion to God.' The senior member went on to say, 'President Jung respects the freewill of young people. He embraces those who are defiant towards him and he guides them with love. It came to our attention that misunderstandings arose, both internally and externally, and so we have been making internal changes to resolve those misunderstandings.
  88. ^ Tozer, Joel (April 9, 2014). "Extracts of Correspondence With Providence Representative in South Korea". Scribd.com. Retrieved August 31, 2015.
  89. ^ "Correction report on Chairman Jung Myung Seok 정명석 총재 관련 보도에 대한 정정보도문" (in Korean). Yonhap News. 16 March 2015. Archived from the original on 13 Jan 2017. Retrieved 20 February 2017. The broadcast in question occurred between May 22 and July 26, 2014. YTN published its retractions as follows: "Between May 22 and July 26, 2014, this news station broadcasted as follows about President Jeong Myung Seok: "President Jung Myung Seok of JMS sexually assaulted female members and then fled to various foreign countries, but was eventually captured by the Chinese police when he was in China and repatriated to Korea," "He stowed away," and "He accepted sexual favors as bribes from female members." However, after verifying the truth, it was confirmed that the sexual assault charges were dismissed by the prosecutors involved, and he was able to travel overseas lawfully. He returned to Korea several times during his travels and was investigated by the prosecutors about his travels. In these ways, the news broadcasted about Jeong Myung Seok was different from the facts. Even the charge of him accepting sexual favors as bribes was also dropped. It is evident that the reportings on Jeong were not entirely based on fact. Hence, we made the appropriate corrections. Additionally, it was confirmed that the name JMS is not in fact the ministry's official name. Hence, we correct it to the ministry's actual official name, The Christian Gospel Mission."
  90. ^ Kim Chun-ho (12 Feb 2010). "News Daily "Christian Gospel Mission"(JMS) and President Jung Myung Seok – The 10 years of truth that passed, exposing the falsehood behind S Broadcasting's professional accusations". News Daily. Archived from the original on 6 Feb 2017. Retrieved 20 February 2017. 그후 정 총재는 해외선교행을 떠났는데 S방송사는 JMS교단의 총재가 교인들을 성추행하고 홍콩으로 도주해 해외에서도 문제를 발생시킨다는 내용을 고발형식으로 내보냈다. After this, Chairman Jung left for overseas missionary work, and S media broadcaster broadcasted the formal accusation containing the content that the organization's chairman had fled overseas to Hong Kong to sexually harass members.
  91. ^ "Ask the Police". Korean National Police Agency. July 4, 2005. Archived from the original on September 1, 2007. Retrieved February 27, 2008. Jung Myoung Seok has been wanted on the charge of rape since 30 June 2001.
  92. ^ "JMS (Christian Gospel Mission) Chairman Jung Myung Seok, JMS(기독교복음선교회) 정명석 총재는" (in Korean). Minjung News. 7 Feb 2010. Archived from the original on 13 Jan 2017. Retrieved 20 February 2017. 2006년 4월 4일, 사건의 피해자라 주장하는 장모양과 김모양이 중국공안의 보호하에 병원에서 진료를 받았고 조사결과, 별다른 이상과 성폭행의 흔적을 찾아 볼 수 없었으며 특히 장모양의 경우는 생리중이어서 조사결과를 하나의 해프닝으로 마무리 지은 사건이라고 했다. 그러나 꼭 이 사건으로 인해 정 총재가 한국으로 신병인도가 된 것처럼 보이나 한국에서의 고소한 사건에 정 총재가 출두하지 않아 기소 중지 된 상태에서 또 다른 해외사건 발단으로 법무부가 신병인도를 요청해 중국이 받아들인 것이다. 이 사건에 대해 한국 경찰병원에서도 4월 8일 피해자들의 피해상황을 확인하기 위해 진단을 했지만 성폭행의 흔적을 찾아 볼 수 없었고, 처녀막 또한 상하지 않았다는 소견을 냈다. On April 4, 2006, Ms Jang and Ms Kim, the alleged victims, undertook a medical examination in a hospital, while under Chinese police protection. The examination resulted in a finding of no traces of sexual assault. In particular, for Ms Jang, the alleged incident had occurred during her menstruation. Hence, the case amounted to nothing. However, it may have seemed that this case had led to Korea's extradition of President Jung Myeong Seok. Accusations were made against President Jung while he was abroad. As he was not in Korea, his prosecution was in pending status. Hence, Korea's Department of Justice requested his extradition from China, and China accepted that request. However, it may have seemed that this case had led to Korea's extradition of President Jung Myeong Seok. Accusations were made against President Jung while he was abroad. As he was not in Korea, his prosecution was in pending status. Hence, Korea's Department of Justice requested his extradition from China, and China accepted that request. The Korean police hospital also undertook a medical examination of Ms Jang and Ms Kim on April 8, to detect any injury on the alleged victims' bodies. Again, they could not find any trace of sexual assault. In fact, their hymens were intact.
  93. ^ a b Kang, Shin-who (May 13, 2007). "Suspect of Cult Founder Arrested in China". The Korea Times. Archived from the original on September 13, 2007. Retrieved February 27, 2008.
  94. ^ Kim, Ah-yeon. "All cases related to Chairman Jung Myung Seok dismissed without charge". Jeong Gyeong News. pp. 242–247. Archived from the original on 29 Oct 2016. Retrieved 20 Feb 2017. On February 5th, 2008, five women charged Jung with sexual abuse and a trial ensued. At the time, CGM was unable to respond effectively although here was no evidence. One of those women admitted to fraud and even dropped her charge. Despite all of this, Jung was sentenced to ten years imprisonment on the charges of sexual assault, sexual harassment, and other crimes from the remaining 4 women.
  95. ^ Moon Il-seok (15 Feb 2010). "월간지 記者 추적 "정명석 사건 재심필요" Jung Myung Seok's Case Needs Retrial" (in Korean). Break News. Archived from the original on 6 Feb 2016. 차 기자가 다섯 번째로 정 총재 관련 재판이 잘못됐다고 보는 이유는 성폭행과 관련된 내용이다. 그는 "당시 '문제 제기자'의 주장에 따르면 여성들은 '심한 성폭행을 당해 걷기가 힘들 정도로 깊은 상처를 입어 하혈을 했다'고 발표하였다. 그러나 이 사건이 법정으로 옮겨진 후, 이 진술과는 달리 피고의 변호인은 사건 현장에 있었던, 당시 cctv를 보면 이 두 사람은 피해자답지 않게 미소를 지었고, 걸음걸이 또한 전혀 불편해 보이지 않는다고 반박하였다"면서 "무엇보다 주목해야 할 사실은 성폭행 피해를 보았다며 법정고소를 함께 진행해왔던 c모양이 위증을 했다는 선언을 하고 고소를 취하한 것이다. c모양은 어머니의 손을 잡고 법정에 나와 경찰과 검찰 진술을 번복하며 피해 사실을 완전히 부인하였다. 재판부는 '증인이 고소 내용과 다르게 진술을 하면 처벌을 받을 수 있다'라고 하였지만, c모양은 '처벌을 받아도 좋다. 사실은 성폭행 당하지 않았다. 자신과 같이 고소한 d모양도 강간 등 성폭행을 당한 사실이 전혀 없음에도 '문제 제기자'의 사주에 의하여 허위로 고소를 하고 지금까지 허위 진술을 한 것이다.'라고 명백히 밝혔다"고, 원고 중의 한 사람이 법정에서 진술한 사실을 적시했다. The fifth reason why Cha believes that the trial of President JungMyeongSeok went wrong is the part about the sexual assault. He writes: At that time, the informer publicly asserted that the sexual assault on those women was so severe and their wounds were so deep that they could hardly walk; they had a bloody discharge. But when the case was moved to the court, the attorneys of the defendant gave a different statement. They rebutted, saying, "The footage of the CCTV set at the scene shows the two women smiling—not like victims—and their walks don't look uncomfortable at all." Cha continues and highlights the testimony given by one of the plaintiffs to the court: "More than anything, we need to pay attention to the fact that one of these women, Plaintiff C, who filed the suit as co-plaintiffs and initially claimed that she was sexually assaulted declared that she committed perjury, and she withdrew her suit. Plaintiff C came to the court holding her mother's hand. She reversed the statements that she had given to the police and the prosecutor's office, and completely denied the assault allegations. Even though the court warned her, saying 'If your testimony differs from the contents of the complaint, you could be penalized,' C clearly said, 'I'm fine even if I will be penalized. The truth is that I was not sexually assaulted. Plaintiff D who filed the suit with me wasn't raped or sexually assaulted either at all. But incited by the informer, she filed a false suit and has given false testimonies until now.'" {{cite news}}: |archive-date= / |archive-url= timestamp mismatch; 6 February 2017 suggested (help)
  96. ^ Herskovitz, Jon (May 22, 2014). "South Korean religious sect leader jailed for rape". National Post. Retrieved August 31, 2015. A South Korean court on Tuesday sentenced Jung Myung-seok, the leader of a fringe religious sect, to six years in jail for raping female followers, a court official said. Jung, 63, the leader of the Jesus Morning Star sect (JMS), fled to China from South Korea in 2001 where he had been charged with selecting followers from photographs and then forcing them to have sex with him.
  97. ^ "Cult Leader Gets 6-Year Prison Term". The Korea Times. August 12, 2008. Retrieved February 28, 2014. Notorious cult leader Jung Myung-seok received Tuesday a six-year prison sentence for raping and sexually abusing his female followers.
  98. ^ "정명석 JMS총재 징역 6년 선고" [JMS leader Jung Myung-Seok sentenced to six years in prison]. Chosun Ilbo (in Korean). August 13, 2008. Retrieved October 29, 2013. 서울중앙지법 형사26부(재판장 배기열)는 12일 여자 신도들을 성폭행한 혐의로 구속기소된 JMS(기독교복음선교회) 총재 정명석(63)씨에게 징역 6년을 선고했다. (The Seoul Central District Court No. 26 Criminal Division (Justice Bae Ki-yeol) delivered a prison sentence of six years to JMS President Jung Myung-seok, 63, who had been arrested and charged with raping 12 female followers.)
  99. ^ 송, 경호 (Song Gyeong-ho) (February 5, 2009). "성폭행 혐의 정명석, 항소심 선고 10일로 연기" [Jung Myung-seok sexual assault allegations, asks appeal court to postpone decision 10th]. Christian Today. Archived from the original on February 7, 2009. Retrieved September 10, 2015.
  100. ^ "JMS 정명석 징역 10년 확정" [Jung Myung-Seok's 10-year prison sentence upheld] (in Korean). Yonhap. April 23, 2009. Retrieved October 29, 2013. 여신도들을 성폭행한 혐의(강간) 등으로 구속기소된 국제크리스천연합(JMS) 총재 정명석(64)씨에게 징역 10년을 선고한 원심을 확정했다.
  101. ^ "Court Upholds 10-Yr Sentence on Cult Leader". The Korea Times. April 23, 2009. Retrieved March 1, 2014. The Supreme Court upheld a 10-year-imprisonment sentence on Jung Myung-suk, the leader of the JMS (Jesus Morning Star) religious cult Thursday for the rape and sexual assault of five Korean female followers. Jung was indicted for sexually assaulting the victims between 2003 and 2006 in Hong Kong, Malaysia and China. A lower court convicted him on three counts sentencing him to a six-year-prison term, but a high court extended this to 10 years convicting him on all five counts.
  102. ^ a b Sakurai (2007a), p. 140.
  103. ^ Sin, Dong-myeong (신동명) (April 6, 2012). "테러·성폭행 ... 독버섯처럼 자라고 있다" :'JMS' 탈퇴 지도자들, 실체폭로 기자회견 ['Terrorism, Rape, growing like poison mushrooms': JMS defected leader(s) hold press conference revealing actual goings-on]. The Christian Times (기독교타임즈).
  104. ^ Jeong, Jae-won (April 4, 2012). '나체 동영상' 파문으로 다시 주목받는 JMS [JMS: 'Naked' video again in the spotlight] (in Korean). NewsNJoy. Archived from the original on April 5, 2012. 논란이 된 동영상에 대해서는 "5년 이상 지난 과거의 영상이며, 성상납의 증거가 될 수 없다"고 반박했다 ([The JMS members-distributed pamphlet] retorted that regarding the controversial videos "were footages from at least 5 years ago, and cannot be evidence for sex bribery). {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |registration= ignored (|url-access= suggested) (help)
  105. ^ Also stated by Jo Gyeong-suk, former head of the Seoul Branch of Providence, and allegedly a victim herself.[103][104]
  106. ^ "Religious sect leader formally arrested on rape charges". Yonhap. February 23, 2008. Retrieved February 27, 2008.
  107. ^ Herskovitz, Jon (August 12, 2008). "South Korean religious sect leader jailed for rape". Reuters. Retrieved December 18, 2013. A South Korean court yesterday sentenced Jung Myung-seok, the leader of a fringe religious sect, to six years in jail for raping female followers, a court official said. ... Former members have told the Seoul court that young and attractive women were presented to Jung as "gifts" and he forced them into sex as a part of a purification ritual.
  108. ^ Kim Ah-yung (Dec 2012). "All Previous Cases Related to JMS Religious Organization's Founder, Jung Myung Seok, Dismissed Without Charge" (in Korean). Jeong Gyeong News. Archived from the original (PDF) on 29 October 2016. Retrieved 15 February 2017. From January of last year, the case involving the religious organization referred to as JMS (Official name: Christian Gospel Mission) attracted a lot of attention through the media and the case finally concluded at the end of October. Some of the people related to the case were acquitted by the court after investigation. Hereby, the founder, Jung Myung Seok, was cleared from all accusations and the press itself. The press, found to have fabricated contents in the media without confirming the facts, became the target of criticism.
  109. ^ Choi Jung-pyon (5 Nov 2013). "The Ministry of Justice clarified that speculations made by Park Beom-Gye (a member of the National Assembly) of Jung Myung Seok receiving preferential treatment in prison are untrue" (in Korean). Uri News (우리들 뉴스). Archived from the original on 2 Feb 2017. Retrieved 15 February 2017. On October 25, 2013, Park Beom-Gye (a member of the National Assembly) questioned whether Jung (president and pastor of the Christian Gospel Mission, formerly known as JMS) was living a life of luxury, while receiving preferential treatment in prison. In response, Minister Hyang Gyo-Ahn from the Ministry of Justice issued a statement explaining that this was a misunderstanding and provided further explanatory materials. After checking the facts, we found out that Jung had been writing sermons everyday sitting in his room and sending them outside. The church members would post those sermons on websites run by the CGM. The question put forth by Mr Park Beom-Gye was irresponsible and groundless. His speculation of Jung receiving preferential treatment spread to certain news outlets, which harmed the reputation and the dignity of the Christian Gospel Mission and its church members.
  110. ^ "Newly Changing Christian Gospel Mission" (in Korean). Newsmaker. 7 July 2010. Archived from the original on 21 Feb 2010. Retrieved 25 February 2017. "From the standpoint of the existing Christianity, the doctrines and activities of the Christian Gospel Mission are clearly different," says Chung. "If it is different, it is not wrong or bad. The governor said that he did not know about the people who were bad and misunderstood. Because we do not know, we are rejected by misunderstandings and distrusts, and we say that we should only treat them with love. Past days, the governor devoted himself to eating and sleeping for his disciples who are struggling with life problems, and he took the lead to look for the poor and tough disciples first and to solve the difficulties. He poured out his sincere efforts to spread the gospel through sermons, Sunday worship service, preaching of worship service, and various lecture lectures.Thus, the life of the governor who only loves Jesus and practices the Word made us feel Jesus in our lives. It made us realize the fundamental spirit of the love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. ""People are curious as to why the missions are growing in spite of media reports and misunderstandings. It can only be found through the life and teachings of the governor centered on Jesus. {{cite news}}: |archive-date= / |archive-url= timestamp mismatch; 21 February 2017 suggested (help)
  111. ^ Sakurai (2006), p. 145.
  112. ^ a b c d "韓国カルト、日本で2千人 若者勧誘、教祖が性的暴行" [Korean Cult numbering 2000 in Japan solicits youths in Japan, cult leader commits sexual violence]. Asahi Shimbun (in Japanese). July 27, 2006. Archived from the original on August 13, 2006. Retrieved April 7, 2015.
  113. ^ "Smiling a serious business in South Korea". Taipei Times. September 5, 2015. Retrieved September 12, 2015.
  114. ^ "Cult aimed at elite in 50 universities". Asahi Shimbun. July 31, 2006. Archived from the original on December 27, 2013. Retrieved April 6, 2014. Ex-members say recruiting on campus started on Jung's orders in the mid-1990s. "It's a fraudulent activity, as they conceal the group's identity in luring members," a lawyer said. An ex-member in his 30s said he and other cultists were deprived of sleep--forced to work late into the night and then wake up early to listen to Jung's videotaped preaching.
  115. ^ Sakurai (2007b), p. 4.
  116. ^ a b "「摂理」献金年間1億円超、教祖の逃亡資金にも" [Providence contributions exceed 100 million yen, some funds used to assist leader's flight]. Asahi Shimbun (in Japanese). July 31, 2006. Archived from the original on July 31, 2006. Retrieved May 8, 2014.
  117. ^ "Japan court rules marriage invalid – UPI Archives". Upi.com. May 8, 1996. Retrieved September 12, 2015.
  118. ^ "Guru said to have raped prospective brides before mass weddings". August 3, 2006. Archived from the original on July 7, 2014. Retrieved September 11, 2015.
  119. ^ "Setsuri cult facilities raided over immigration suspicions". Japan Times. January 20, 2007. Retrieved December 18, 2013.
  120. ^ "カルトSEX教団に強制捜査...教祖にせっせと女性貢ぐ" [Cultic sex religious group raided by investigators.. women assiduously feed money to founder] (in Japanese). January 19, 2007. Archived from the original on February 26, 2007. Retrieved September 1, 2015.
  121. ^ "Jung Myung Seok - President of the Christian Gospel Mission" (in Korean and English). Sisa News. August 2005. Archived from the original on 1 Feb 2017. Retrieved 23 February 2017. Human beings are immensely great beings who carry within them the value of God. God wants to fulfill His will through people. That is why the value of our being is incalculable. Living in this world requires money, fame, and power. However, we know very well that a life lived without truth is a life that is empty. If we spend our precious youth lost and wandering in the much of alcohol, smoking, and sexual immorality, we will wake up one day having lost our true self. Just as we envision beautiful objects when we draw up our plans for a work of art, it is a given that our creator God wants us to live beautiful lives. I wish that rather than pursuing worldly things that are meaningless at best, I hope that everyone will regain the value of their precious lives by the power of God. At the wedding, the bride is at the height of her beauty as she takes the bridegroom's hand. Jesus told us that we must become the brides of God and that we must remain awake in our most beautiful state to become the brides of God. President Jung leads us to make ourselves into masterpieces and to be used for the world. I urge everyone not to ruin themselves through their own actions but instead to continue making the effort to become perfect. That is the mission God gives us today and that is His message.{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: unrecognized language (link)
  122. ^ "Newly Changing Christian Gospel Mission" (in Korean). Newsmaker. 7 July 2010. Archived from the original on 21 Feb 2010. Retrieved 25 February 2017. The Mission is taking the initiative in repenting the reality of the loss of humanity caused by corruption, corruption, pleasure and greed, as it sees various disasters taking place throughout the globe as a warning message from God. {{cite news}}: |archive-date= / |archive-url= timestamp mismatch; 21 February 2017 suggested (help)
  123. ^ Kim Hyun-gyu (4 April 2012). "Why is Christian Gospel Mission back in the spotlight?" (PDF). Newsmaker. Archived from the original on 1 September 2016. Retrieved 21 February 2017. 'President Jung respects the freewill of young people. He embraces those who are defiant towards him and he guides them with love. It came to our attention that misunderstandings arose, both internally and externally, and so we have been making internal changes to resolve those misunderstandings. Please do not speak completely ill of us while only seeing things in part, like a blind man blindly feeling an elephant. Also, do not jump to incorrect conclusions, while clinging to incorrect perceptions based on past events.'
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Category:South Korea Category:Christianity Category:Christianity in South Korea Category:Christian new religious movements