Great Commission Association of Churches

The GCAC traces its roots to the Jesus People movement of the early 1970s, particularly the work of evangelist Chuck Smith at Calvary Chapel in Costa Mesa, California, and the subsequent discipleship movement led by Bob Mumford and others. In 1975, a group of leaders formed the Christian Growth Ministries, which later became the GCAC in 1982. The association grew rapidly, planting churches across the US and abroad, and by the 1990s it claimed hundreds of affiliated congregations. Its early history is intertwined with the shepherding movement, which emphasized close pastoral oversight and accountability.

GCAC churches hold to conservative evangelical theology, including the inerrancy of the Bible, the deity of Christ, and the necessity of personal conversion. They practice believer's baptism by immersion and observe the Lord's Supper. A distinctive emphasis is placed on discipleship and church planting, with a strong focus on small groups and one-on-one mentoring. The association also promotes a hierarchical church structure, with elders and pastors exercising authority over members. Worship styles are typically contemporary, reflecting their roots in the Jesus People movement.

The GCAC has faced criticism for its authoritarian leadership style and allegations of spiritual abuse. In the 1980s and 1990s, former members and watchdog groups accused the association of using coercive tactics, such as requiring members to submit to pastoral authority and discouraging outside relationships. Some ex-members reported psychological manipulation and financial exploitation. The association has denied these charges, but the controversies led to a decline in membership and public scrutiny. In response, GCAC has sought to reform its practices, though critics remain skeptical.

Beyond the headlines, the GCAC has been involved in missionary work in less-publicized regions, including Eastern Europe and Latin America. It also operates a publishing arm, Christian Growth Ministries, which produced teaching materials and tapes. The association's influence extends to the International Churches of Christ, a separate but related movement that adopted similar discipleship models. Notably, the GCAC has produced several well-known Christian authors and speakers, such as Bob Mumford and Don Basham, who later distanced themselves from the movement. The group's history is documented in the archives of Fuller Theological Seminary.

Shepherding movement

A movement within charismatic Christianity that emphasized submission to pastoral authority and close personal accountability.

Discipleship

The practice of mentoring and guiding new believers in Christian faith and practice.

Jesus People movement

A Christian movement in the 1960s and 1970s that combined countercultural aesthetics with evangelical theology.