Félix Manalo predestined as God's last messenger for the Far East
Iglesia ni Cristo teaches that Félix Manalo, the founder of INC, was predestined by God as the last messenger (the Angel of Revelation 7:2) appointed to restore the true Church in the Far East (Philippines and surrounding regions). Manalo's role is understood as uniquely ordained by God, and his mission is to gather the elect and reestablish the authentic Church of Christ. This predestination does not relate primarily to individual salvation but to God's prophetic purposes in history.
Individual believers are called to respond to God's revealed truth through Manalo's preaching and to obey the authority of the church. Predestination in INC theology is not primarily about God's unconditional election of individuals to salvation but about God's selection of Manalo as the instrument of restoration. Believers are responsible for their obedience and faithfulness; continued membership and salvation depend upon their response to God's word and their fidelity to INC doctrine and authority.
Key Distinctions
- Election model:
- Félix Manalo predestined as last messenger; individual election by obedience
- Double predestination:
- not formally defined
- Free will teaching:
- human obedience and INC membership required
Scripture References
Sources
- INC Official Website
- Felix Manalo, Pasugo magazine