Calvary Chapels are Christian churches with a history dating back to the 1960s. It was founded by Chuck Smith in Costa Mesa, California, in 1965. Smith's approach combined verse-by-verse Bible teaching with trust on the gracious work of the Holy Spirit in moving the hearts of people. This appealed particularly to the counterculture movement of the time, including hippies and surfers.
The movement grew rapidly during the 1970s, especially through its association with the Jesus People movement. Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa became a hub for contemporary Christian music and saw the emergence of influential Christian musicians and bands.
Key to the growth of Calvary Chapel was its emphasis on non-denominationalism, a fresh approach to worship, and a strong emphasis on expository preaching. By the 1980s, numerous Calvary Chapel churches had been planted across the United States and internationally.
Calvary Chapel's impact continues today, with hundreds of affiliated churches worldwide. The organization is known for its emphasis on the Bible as the ultimate authority, the simplicity of faith, and a biblical view of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Calvary Chapels are famous and characterized today for their verse-by-verse exposition of the Bible by explaining the passage, its simple message for everyone, and how God’s word is still for us today.
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