Incheon is the birthplace of Korean Christianity, with the arrival of US missionaries in 1885 who planted the seeds of faith that would later spread throughout the nation.

However, as recent data from the Pastoral Data Research Institute suggests, the number of Christians in Korea is projected to decline significantly by 2050. Despite this trend, Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony, has been showing steady growth, producing over 100,000 graduates every year.

In particular, among the 12 tribes of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the Incheon Church of the Matthew tribe, which is the first church established among the 12 tribes, stands out as a beacon of faith, demonstrating the power of dedicated Bible study and spiritual discipline.

The driving force behind the continuous growth of Shincheonji Matthew's Tribe is the unwavering dedication to the Word of God. Unlike traditional churches, where faith can sometimes become stagnant, Shincheonji emphasises deep and consistent Bible study. Each week, members undergo Bible-based examinations, ensuring their understanding of God’s Word remains sharp and practical. In October 2023, the Matthew Tribe introduced an internal Bible test programme, reinforcing the importance of scripture in daily life. Even elderly members, such as 86-year-old Choon-sook Park, actively participate in these exams, finding renewed strength and enlightenment in the process.

For many working professionals, maintaining a strong faith while balancing daily responsibilities can be challenging. Recognising this struggle, Shincheonji’s Matthew Tribe has implemented a structured Bible education programme tailored specifically for working believers. Twice a week, over 230 working professionals gather after hours to delve into God’s 6000-year history and deepen their understanding of His will. One such member, 28-year-old Jae-heon Jo, shared that these sessions have transformed his daily life, allowing him to keep God at the centre of his thoughts and actions.

In Shincheonji’s Matthew Tribe, learning goes beyond simply listening to sermons. Every believer is encouraged to confidently share and teach the Word. During weekly services, members deliver scripture-based speeches, refining their ability to articulate and convey biblical truths effectively. This initiative ensures that all members are well-equipped to spread God’s message, making them active participants in fulfilling His will. One believer, Hyun-jung Jo, expressed gratitude for this method, emphasising how peer discussions and structured study materials have enhanced her understanding of the Bible.

In summary, the structured and systematic approach to Bible education serves as a model for true faith, ensuring that every member grows into a capable messenger of the gospel.

Meanwhile, the Matthew Tribe is one of the 12 tribes of Shincheonji Church of Jesus centred around Incheon, which connects the sky and the sea. Through the Shincheonji Volunteer Group, the tribe also exerts a positive influence on society through a range of volunteer activities. The Matthew tribe has seven churches domestically, and churches overseas, including Germany.