Who Is Pastor Gino Jennings? A Complete Guide to His Ministry and Beliefs
Pastor Gino Jennings is the founder and spiritual leader of the First Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ, an Apostolic denomination with its headquarters in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He is widely known for his direct and uncompromising preaching style, which emphasizes holiness, modesty, and strict adherence to his interpretation of Biblical doctrine. His ministry has grown significantly through television and internet broadcasts of his sermons and live services.
In a world full of spiritual voices, believers are called to use discernment. As followers of Jesus Christ, our ultimate guide is the Holy Spirit, leading us through the Word of God. While God raises up leaders to preach and shepherd His flock, our focus must always remain on Jesus Christ, the true Shepherd of our souls. Among these leaders is Pastor Gino Jennings, a prominent figure whose unique approach to ministry and doctrine often sparks curiosity and discussion.
This article aims to be a clear, comprehensive, and Biblically-anchored guide to Pastor Gino Jennings’ ministry and beliefs. Our goal is not merely to report on his work, but to prayerfully examine his journey, his church’s foundation, and his core doctrines, measuring them against Holy Scripture. This follows the Apostle Paul’s instruction to “test everything; hold fast what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). By doing so, we ensure that every teaching aligns with the eternal truths of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, whose authority is supreme.
Join us in this exploration, not to elevate any man, but to faithfully see how this ministry reflects the glory and truth of our Risen Lord. We will begin by understanding the man himself and the calling that led him to establish his work.
Who Is Pastor Gino Jennings?
His Early Life and Calling
As the dedicated founder of the First Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ, Pastor Gino Jennings’ journey into ministry began with a profound sense of divine purpose. This calling unfolded over many years, shaping his path and preparing him for his appointed work.
From an early age, Pastor Jennings displayed a deep spiritual inclination by immersing himself in the study of God’s Word. His devotion fostered a strong desire to live righteously, reflecting the biblical truth that God knows and guides His chosen servants even before birth (Jeremiah 1:5).
This spiritual awakening led to a wholehearted commitment to holiness and a complete understanding of the Scriptures. His earnest pursuit of truth, which required both surrender and dedication, became the cornerstone of his future ministry and reflects the call to discipleship Jesus extends to all believers (Matthew 16:24).
The Founding of the Ministry
The vision for the First Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ grew directly from Pastor Gino Jennings’ fervent faith. Rather than following fleeting trends, the ministry was established on the unshakeable principles of the Bible [1].
In the late 1980s, Pastor Jennings officially founded the church, marking a significant step in his spiritual journey. Its primary aim was clear from the outset:
- To preach the uncompromised Gospel of Jesus Christ.
- To call believers to a life of holiness and genuine repentance.
- To teach the authority and infallibility of the Holy Scriptures.
The ministry quickly gained recognition for its steadfast adherence to biblical teachings, which emphasized living a consecrated life. This call to holy living is echoed by the Apostle Paul, who instructs believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices to God (Romans 12:1).
The church’s foundation reflects a commitment to the early apostolic pattern. Its mission is to draw souls closer to Christ and equip them with the spiritual tools necessary for salvation and victorious living (Acts 2:38). Pastor Jennings’ work continues to uphold these foundational tenets.
What Is the First Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ?
Core Doctrines and Beliefs
Founded by Pastor Gino Jennings, the First Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ (FCOOLJC) teaches a return to early apostolic Christianity. The church focuses on personal holiness and strict adherence to Biblical principles. These core doctrines are foundational to understanding its ministry.
The central tenets of the First Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ include:
- The Oneness of God: The church teaches that God is one, not a trinity. Rather, Jesus Christ is the sole manifestation of God in human flesh (Isaiah 9:6; John 10:30; Colossians 2:9). This belief firmly establishes Jesus’ full divinity.
- Water Baptism in Jesus’ Name: Converts are baptized by immersion solely in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. This practice is considered essential for the remission of sins and aligns with New Testament examples (Acts 2:38; Acts 19:5).
- The Baptism of the Holy Spirit: Believers are encouraged to seek the Holy Spirit, with the initial evidence being speaking in other tongues, as on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:4). This experience empowers Christians for holy living.
- Holiness and Sanctification: A strong emphasis is placed on living a life separated from worldly practices. This includes outward modesty and internal purity, as true faith is believed to transform one’s entire life (1 Peter 1:15-16; Hebrews 12:14).
- Repentance and Confession: Genuine repentance is paramount for salvation. Confessing to God and turning away from sin are crucial steps toward a renewed relationship with Christ (Acts 3:19; Luke 13:3).
- Authority of the Bible: The King James Version of the Bible is held as the infallible and authoritative Word of God. All doctrine, teaching, and personal conduct must align with scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
These doctrines guide the worship, teaching, and daily lives of the members. They reflect the church’s deep commitment to apostolic truth.
Examining Teachings Through Scripture
As believers, we are called to test all teachings against the Word of God, a practice the Apostle Paul commended in the Bereans (Acts 17:11). Let us examine the core teachings of the First Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ in light of scripture, continually affirming the Lordship of Jesus Christ.
The FCOOLJC’s emphasis on the oneness of God underscores a vital scriptural truth: Jesus Christ is indeed fully God. The Bible repeatedly affirms His divine nature and authority:
- Jesus as God Manifested: Scripture declares that in Jesus, “all the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily” (Colossians 2:9). He is the “Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). John 1:1 states, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” These verses undeniably proclaim Christ’s divinity.
- Baptism in Jesus’ Name: The historical accounts in the Book of Acts show apostles baptizing “in the name of Jesus Christ” (Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 19:5). This practice highlights the supreme authority and saving power of Jesus’ name, demonstrating the singular importance of Christ in salvation.
- The Holy Spirit: The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is a promise for all believers. Jesus Himself promised to send the Comforter (John 14:16-17), and the Spirit empowers us to live righteously and bear fruit (Galatians 5:22-23).
- Holiness and Repentance: The call to holiness is a consistent theme throughout scripture, as God desires His people to be set apart for Him (1 Peter 1:15-16). Likewise, Jesus taught that repentance is necessary for salvation (Mark 1:15). A life transformed by Christ will therefore seek to walk in His ways.
Ultimately, the teachings of the First Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ consistently point believers to Jesus. They emphasize His complete divinity, His authority in salvation, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. For this reason, every Christian is encouraged to personally study the scriptures. Doing so ensures a deeper understanding and a firmer faith in Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.
Where Are Pastor Gino Jennings’ Church Locations?
Headquarters in Philadelphia
The ministry of Pastor Gino Jennings is headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This city is home to the international headquarters of The First Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith [2], serving as the primary spiritual hub for the organization. From this location, Pastor Jennings delivers powerful sermons to a global audience. More than just a building, the Philadelphia church is a spiritual center where the unchanging truth of the Gospel is proclaimed and believers gather to worship in spirit and truth (John 4:24).
The central assembly in Philadelphia plays a vital role by providing leadership and spiritual guidance to all associated churches. It also hosts major conferences and events throughout the year that strengthen attendees’ faith and promote Christian fellowship. This unity reflects the early church’s devotion to apostolic teaching (Acts 2:42).
National and International Assemblies
While Philadelphia serves as the headquarters, Pastor Gino Jennings’ ministry has expanded to include a network of assemblies across the United States. These churches share the same core doctrines, teaching the vital message of holiness, repentance, and baptism in Jesus’ name. Through these faithful congregations, the good news of salvation in Christ is proclaimed (Romans 10:9).
The ministry’s reach also extends beyond national borders, with international assemblies established to spread the Gospel worldwide. This global expansion fulfills the Great Commission from Jesus Christ to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). In obedience to this command, the ministry strives to bring the light of Jesus to every corner of the earth (Acts 1:8).
To find specific church locations, please visit the official website for information about its various congregations [3]. Each assembly serves as a beacon of truth, teaching about Jesus Christ as the crucified and risen Savior and upholding the Bible as the infallible Word of God. This work reflects the church’s role as “the pillar and ground of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15).
What Are Pastor Gino Jennings’ Sermons About?
Key Themes of Holiness and Repentance
Pastor Gino Jennings’ sermons consistently center on the foundational biblical truths of holiness and repentance. He meticulously teaches that a life devoted to Christ must reflect God’s own holy nature, emphasizing that this is not an optional suggestion but a divine command for every believer [source: Leviticus 11:44-45].
Furthermore, his messages highlight the necessity of living a life set apart from worldly influences. He calls believers to strive for personal purity in both their outward actions and inward intentions [source: 1 Peter 1:15-16]. Pastor Jennings stresses that this pursuit of holiness is a sign of true faith, which demands a radical transformation.
Repentance is another pivotal message in his ministry. He preaches that true repentance requires a sincere turning away from sin, which signifies a profound change of heart and mind that leads directly toward God [source: Acts 3:19]. His teachings reinforce that this genuine repentance is essential for salvation, as it paves the way for a renewed life in Jesus Christ. Ultimately, his sermons serve as a powerful reminder of God’s high standards, calling all to walk closely with Him in reverence and truth.
How to Access His Teachings Today
For those seeking to deepen their understanding of these biblical themes, Pastor Gino Jennings’ teachings are widely accessible. His sermons are available on various platforms, allowing believers worldwide to engage with his ministry.
Primary ways to access his teachings include:
- Live Church Services: Services are held regularly at the First Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ, headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with many national and international assemblies also convening.
- Official Ministry Website: The ministry’s official website, The Truth of God, serves as a central hub with sermon archives and extensive resources [source: truthofgod.com].
- YouTube Channel: A vast collection of sermons is available on his official YouTube channel, with new content frequently uploaded for on-demand viewing [source: youtube.com].
- Television and Radio Broadcasts: Select teachings are also broadcast on Christian television and radio networks, with schedules varying by region.
As with any spiritual teacher, it is vital to measure all teachings against the Word of God [source: Acts 17:11]. Therefore, while wisdom from faithful ministers can be valuable, the ultimate focus must remain on Jesus Christ. He is the ultimate Truth and the Way to eternal life [source: John 14:6], and His Word alone holds supreme authority.
Who Is Pastor Gino Jennings’ Wife?
Understanding the Role of Darlene Gayman Jennings
As the devoted wife of Pastor Gino Jennings, Darlene Gayman Jennings faithfully stands by his side as a source of stability and encouragement. Her presence is a testament to the vital partnership seen in ministry leadership, as she helps foster a supportive spiritual environment for her husband and the church community.
A Foundation in Scripture
The significant role of a pastor’s wife, which blends personal support with ministry involvement, is deeply rooted in biblical principles. A wife is called to be a helper and companion, as Genesis 2:18 states, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.
Furthermore, the Proverbs 31 woman offers a powerful illustration of a wife who is diligent, wise, and compassionate. She not only cares for her household but also extends her hand to the needy (Proverbs 31:20), setting an example for the congregation.
Directing All Adoration to Christ
While it is important to acknowledge and appreciate those who serve, it is crucial to remember where our ultimate focus must lie. Our adoration belongs solely to Jesus Christ, who is the head of the church (Ephesians 5:23). Every individual in leadership, including Mrs. Jennings, serves to point us toward Him.
Their lives are a reflection of God’s grace, but our faith must rest on the solid foundation of Christ alone, not on any person (1 Corinthians 3:11). Therefore, Darlene Gayman Jennings fulfills her role as a partner and an example, continually directing believers toward Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).
The Christian’s Focus: Centered on Christ, Not Man
Our Christian journey is a profound pilgrimage of faith centered entirely on Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. We look to Him as the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). While God uses devoted men and women to lead and teach, our ultimate allegiance must remain on Christ alone. As the head of the church (Ephesians 5:23), He is our singular focus.
The Danger of Idolizing Pastors (1 Corinthians 3:4-7)
God calls pastors to shepherd His flock, and they serve as valuable instruments in His kingdom. However, a significant danger arises when our admiration for a human leader shifts into idolization. The Apostle Paul addressed this very issue in the early church, where he observed divisions forming around specific leaders like himself and Apollos.
Paul powerfully stated, “For when one says, ‘I follow Paul,’ and another, ‘I follow Apollos,’ are you not mere human beings? What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe—as the Lord has assigned to each his task. I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow” (1 Corinthians 3:4-7).
These verses offer a crucial reminder: our faith rests not in the preacher, but firmly in the power of God. Pastors are merely vessels, instruments in God’s hands; they are never the source of our salvation or spiritual growth. God alone provides the increase.
Consider these points regarding the danger of idolizing a pastor:
- Misplaced Loyalty: Our ultimate loyalty belongs to Christ. Shifting this to a human leader can lead us astray.
- Spiritual Stagnation: Over-reliance on a single personality may hinder personal spiritual growth. We must seek God for ourselves.
- Disillusionment: Because all humans are fallible, placing a pastor on a pedestal creates unrealistic expectations. This can lead to disillusionment that deeply wounds a believer’s faith.
- Divisiveness: As seen in Corinth, loyalty to a person creates factions within the body of Christ, which should be unified.
Therefore, while we should honor those God has called to lead, we must remember that all glory and worship belong to Him alone (Isaiah 42:8).
Measuring Every Teaching Against the Word of God (Acts 17:11)
Discernment is vital in our spiritual walk, especially as we encounter countless teachings and interpretations. How do we determine what is true? The Bible, the inspired and infallible Word of God, provides our ultimate standard (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
The believers in Berea provide a powerful model for us. After the Apostle Paul and Silas preached to them, the Scriptures say, “Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so” (Acts 17:11).
The Bereans didn’t simply accept Paul’s message at face value; they diligently searched the Scriptures to confirm it for themselves. This serves as a model for every Christian. We must measure every sermon, teaching, and doctrine—including those from Pastor Gino Jennings or any other spiritual leader—against the written Word of God.
Here are practical steps to measure teachings against scripture:
- Pray for Discernment: Ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom and understanding (James 1:5). He guides us into all truth (John 16:13).
- Read Your Bible Regularly: Familiarity with God’s Word is your best defense against deception.
- Compare Scripture with Scripture: No single verse should be taken out of context. Ensure teachings align with the whole counsel of God’s Word.
- Seek Godly Counsel: Discuss teachings with mature, trusted believers who also uphold biblical authority.
- Identify the Central Message: Does the teaching glorify Christ and align with the core truths of the Gospel?
Our faith stands on the solid rock of Jesus Christ and His revealed Word. By grounding ourselves in Scripture, we safeguard our faith, grow in genuine understanding, and remain centered on Christ rather than human interpretation. This practice equips us to stand firm against any doctrine that deviates from the truth of the Gospel (Galatians 1:8-9).
Frequently Asked Questions About Pastor Gino Jennings
Who is Darlene Gayman Jennings?
Darlene Gayman Jennings is the devoted wife of Pastor Gino Jennings. She serves alongside him in the ministry of the First Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ. While much of her work is behind the scenes, her supportive role is vital to upholding the principles and mission of the church.
In the Christian faith, a pastor’s spouse often embodies quiet strength and partnership. They provide support, encouragement, and leadership by example within the church community. This aligns with the Biblical teaching that a godly marriage serves as a foundation for effective ministry (1 Timothy 3:2).
How can I watch Pastor Gino Jennings live today?
You can find Pastor Gino Jennings’ sermons on several platforms. His ministry uses these channels to share its message of holiness and repentance with a broad audience.
To watch Pastor Gino Jennings live or access his sermons, consider these common avenues:
- Official Church Website: The First Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ often streams services directly from its official website. [4]
- YouTube Channel: Many ministries, including Pastor Jennings’, maintain an active YouTube channel where live services are broadcast and past sermons are archived. Search for “First Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ” on YouTube. [5]
- Television Broadcasts: Some local or national religious television networks may carry his sermons. Check local listings for “First Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ” broadcasts.
- Social Media: Platforms like Facebook or other Christian-focused social media sites might offer live streaming options.
We encourage all viewers to prayerfully consider all teachings, measuring them against the infallible Word of God (Acts 17:11).
Does Pastor Gino Jennings have children?
Information about Pastor Gino Jennings’ children is not publicly shared. Like many Christian ministries, the primary focus is on spiritual teachings and the Gospel, rather than the personal lives of its leaders.
The Bible values family highly, seeing children as a blessing from the Lord (Psalm 127:3). However, a minister’s effectiveness is rooted in their faithfulness to God’s calling, not solely in their family structure. Our ultimate focus should always be on Jesus Christ, who is the Head of the Church (Ephesians 5:23).
What is Gino Jennings’ net worth from a Biblical perspective?
From a Biblical perspective, a pastor’s “net worth” is measured spiritually, not materially. The Bible teaches that our true riches are eternal treasures found in Christ Jesus, rather than earthly possessions (Matthew 6:19-21).
Here are key Biblical principles regarding a minister’s worth:
- Stewardship: All possessions belong to God, and we are merely stewards (Psalm 24:1). Ministers, like all believers, are called to manage resources faithfully for God’s glory.
- Spiritual Riches: A pastor’s true “net worth” is in their spiritual fruit—souls saved, lives transformed, and disciples made (Philippians 4:17). These are treasures that endure beyond this life.
- Contentment: The Apostle Paul taught that godliness with contentment is great gain (1 Timothy 6:6). Ministers are called to model this contentment, trusting God to provide for their needs.
- Generosity: Jesus encouraged giving generously and laying up treasures in heaven (Luke 12:33). A pastor’s life should reflect a heart for giving, not accumulating.
- Avoiding Greed: The Bible strongly warns against the love of money, calling it a root of all evil (1 Timothy 6:10). Pastors are specifically admonished not to be greedy for dishonest gain (1 Timothy 3:3).
Therefore, while a minister may have earthly provisions as a laborer worthy of his hire (1 Timothy 5:18), their ultimate “net worth” is not measured in dollars, but in their devotion to Christ, the integrity of their teaching, and the spiritual impact of their ministry. Our faith calls us to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33), understanding that true abundance is found in Him alone.