Origins at Barney Creek (1886–1906)

A revival movement rooted in prayer took shape in 1886 near Barney Creek, Tennessee, where believers longed to recover the simplicity and power of New Testament Christianity. They sought more than improved morals or church activity; they hungered for holiness, Spirit-filled living, and obedient discipleship. In an era of denominational rivalry and spiritual coldness in many places, their steady commitment to prayer and repentance was a quiet kind of heroism—faithfulness when recognition was scarce and the cost of standing apart could be high.

Leaders and a Shared Burden

R. G. Spurling helped shepherd early gatherings with a pastor’s heart for unity and biblical order. A. J. Tomlinson emerged as a leading organizer and preacher who urged believers toward sanctified living and bold witness. Neither man sought a movement built on personality; both pressed for an identity anchored in Christ and the Scriptures. Their leadership reflected a Christian virtue often overlooked: the courage to decrease so that the Lord’s name would increase.

Adopting the Name “Church of God” (January 11, 1907)

On January 11, 1907, after two decades of prayerful revival, these believers formally adopted the simple New Testament name “Church of God.” The choice was not a marketing decision but a spiritual confession: the church belongs to God, not to a region, a family, or a favored leader. In taking this name, they signaled a desire for brotherly unity and a life that matched the gospel they preached—holy in conduct, steadfast in love, and empowered for witness. “But as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do” (1 Peter 1:15). Their testimony echoed the apostolic call: “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3).

From Cleveland, Tennessee, to Wider Mission

In time, the fellowship would be organized from Cleveland, Tennessee, providing a base for training, accountability, and expanding mission work. The story is marked by prayer meetings, plain faith, and enduring hope—believers convinced that God still saves, sanctifies, and sends His people. Their adopted name served as a continual reminder of their purpose: to point beyond themselves to the Lord who builds His church and sustains it by His Spirit.