Shincheonji Glossary: Terms Members Use, Defined

신천지 용어 (Shincheonji terms)

Short answer: Shincheonji (SCJ) gives ordinary and biblical words special meanings, such as “promised pastor” for its founder Lee Man-hee, “harvester” for members who recruit inside other churches, and “leaf” for members who pose as fellow students. This glossary defines 87 of these terms in plain English and gives the Korean where SCJ’s sources give it.

Shincheonji uses many words in its own way. This glossary explains each term in plain English, gives the Korean where SCJ’s sources give it, and tags each claim so you can see how far it has been checked.

144,000

십사만 사천

SCJ’s own accountCritics’ claim

SCJ teaches that 144,000 sealed members from its 12 tribes become ‘kingly priests’, and earlier taught that they would unite with martyrs’ spirits and never die. Critics document how this teaching shifted as membership grew past 144,000.

See also: why Lee Man-hee’s claimed immortality matters to Shincheonji.

In SCJ’s words

이것이 우리와 약속하신 새 언약이니 누구든 그 실상을 보고 믿기만 하면 영적 새 이스라엘의 약속 받은 씨로서 십사만 사천의 천민이 되는 것이다. (“This is the new covenant he promised us: whoever sees its reality and believes becomes, as the promised seed of spiritual new Israel, one of the 144,000 people of heaven.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, front matter, before p. 19 (no section label; PDF p. 1; printed page unknown)

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Related terms

42 months

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

The book says the destroyers “trample its people for 42 months.” The lessons date it “from September 1980 to March 1984” (Lesson 117). They also make dating a test: anyone with a testimony of Revelation must date the 42 months, “Otherwise, that testimony should not be listened to” (Lesson 77).

In SCJ’s words

The gentile destroyers invade this tabernacle and trample its people for 42 months (Rv 13; Mt 24:15).

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 207

What the Bible says

Acts 1:7

Jesus told his apostles, “You are not permitted to know the times or periods that the Father has set.” Requiring a dated testimony as proof turns that on its head.

He told them, “You are not permitted to know the times or periods that the Father has set by his own authority.

Acts 1:7, NET

Lessons (8)

Related terms

Adding to / subtracting from Revelation

SCJ’s own account

The book cites Revelation 22:18-19 and concludes that one must believe “only in the true meaning of Revelation.” The lessons turn the warning on the student: guessing counts as adding (Lesson 58), and subtracting means ignoring parts “even after an explanation is provided” (Lesson 29). The instructor links it to avoiding outside sources: “steer clear of commentaries, study Bibles, and making guesses” (Lesson 66).

In SCJ’s words

Revelation warns that anyone who adds to or takes away words from its content will be denied entry into heaven (Rv 22:18-19). Thus, it is critical that we learn, understand, and believe only in the true meaning of Revelation.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 496

What the Bible says

Proverbs 30:6

“Do not add to his words, lest he reprove you and prove you to be a liar.” The warning cuts against any system that adds names, dates and Korean places to the text and then calls questioning them “subtracting.”

Do not add to his words, lest he reprove you and prove you to be a liar.

Proverbs 30:6, NET

Lessons (10)

Related terms

Babylon

바벨론

SCJ’s own account

SCJ teaches that ‘Babylon’ (Revelation 17–18) is a ‘kingdom of demons’ that believers must come out of to join the first resurrection. Critics say SCJ uses this label for existing churches.

In SCJ’s words

13장에서도 언급했던대로 큰 성 바벨론은 언약을 파한 첫 장막과 그들을 멸망시킨 붉은 용의 무리가 섞이어 이루어진 바벨의 도성을 말한다. (“As also mentioned in chapter 13, the great city Babylon means the city of Babel formed by the mixing of the first tabernacle, which broke the covenant, with the red dragon’s group that destroyed them.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, pp. 218–219 (Ch. 14 Sec. 3, label on same PDF page; PDF p. 145)

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Bad report / bad influences

SCJ’s own account

The lessons say Israel failed because of bad reports, and “Today a bad report sounds like, ‘That’s not really what happened’” (Lesson 58). The warning is that “a little bit of doubt” lets Satan “destroy months of faith,” which labels outside criticism in advance.

In SCJ’s words

That’s all it takes – a little bit of doubt – for Satan to destroy months of faith.

SCJ class notes · Lesson 58

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 58, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (2)

Related terms

Betrayal, Destruction, Salvation

배도·멸망·구원

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

SCJ teaches that the Tabernacle Temple betrayed God (배도), was destroyed by outside ‘destroyers’ (멸망), and that salvation (구원) came through Lee and Shincheonji in 1984. Critics and press records dispute the dates and the story’s premise; SCJ’s own sources also disagree on the key dates.

See also: Shincheonji’s fulfillment teaching vs the record; the “betrayal” chapter; the “destruction” chapter; the “salvation” chapter.

In SCJ’s words

한마디로 이를 요약하면 사도 요한이 본 것은 예비 사자들의 배도 행위요, 이제 있는 일은 배도한 그들이 이방인들의 손에 붙인바 되어 멸망당하는 일이며, 장차 될 일은 구원의 은총이다. (“To sum it up in a word: what the apostle John saw is the betrayal of the preparatory messengers; what is now is those betrayers being handed over to gentiles and destroyed; and what is to come is the grace of salvation.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, after pp. 38–41 (Ch. 1 Sec. 9; PDF p. 27)

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Related terms

Bible logic (intermediate level)

SCJ’s own account

The intermediate level “is also called ‘Bible logic’” (Lesson 67): students learn to link chapters to themes, such as John 19:30 to “it is finished” and Revelation 21:6 to “it is done.” It is announced with a test, “Please master the test questions now so that when the test comes, it’s easy” (Lesson 49).

No verbatim SCJ wording found for a quote; the BVC page summarizes this in its own words.

Lessons (2)

Related terms

Book of life

생명책

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

SCJ’s books say the book of life is “the membership register of the church led by the one who overcomes.” The lessons make it a condition of salvation: “Make sure your name is in my book of life” (Lesson 66). Being registered with SCJ is presented as having one’s name in heaven.

In SCJ’s words

the book of life, which is the census register of heaven, is the membership register of the church led by the one who overcomes.

2015 · The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation

Source: The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation (English 1st ed., 2015), p. 76 (PDF p. 43)

The book of life is the registry of heaven that records the names of God’s people.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 258

What the Bible says

Luke 10:20 · Philippians 4:3 · Revelation 13:8

Jesus told his disciples to rejoice that their “names stand written in heaven.” Revelation says names have been written “since the foundation of the world in the book of life belonging to the Lamb.” No church office keeps that register.

Nevertheless, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names stand written in heaven.”

Luke 10:20, NET

Yes, I say also to you, true companion, help them. They have struggled together in the gospel ministry along with me and Clement and my other coworkers, whose names are in the book of life.

Philippians 4:3, NET

and all those who live on the earth will worship the beast, everyone whose name has not been written since the foundation of the world in the book of life belonging to the Lamb who was killed.

Revelation 13:8, NET

Lessons (16)

Related terms

Book of War

SCJ’s own account

The lessons list “a book of war” among the basics (Lessons 7, 8). The book says the Bible is “an account of the battles these two groups have been fighting for the past 6,000 years.” Reading the Bible as a war manual sets up the next step, that a student must choose a side, and that the side is a place.

In SCJ’s words

The Bible is an account of the battles these two groups have been fighting for the past 6,000 years.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 22

What the Bible says

2 Timothy 3:15 · John 20:31

Scripture states its own purpose. It gives “wisdom for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus,” and it was written “so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ.” It is not a battle record whose key is held by one group.

and how from infancy you have known the holy writings, which are able to give you wisdom for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.

2 Timothy 3:15, NET

But these are recorded so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

John 20:31, NET

Lessons (2)

Related terms

Born of God’s seed

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

The book says Jesus’ disciples were “born again of God’s seed and holy spirit” and that the seed is God’s word. The lessons apply it to SCJ’s teaching and make it fragile: “Being born again is a repetitive process, meaning that someone can be born again in the image of God, then in the image of Satan” (Lesson 64). Students “must do everything in their power to remain born of God’s seed” (Lesson 15).

In SCJ’s words

Just as Jesus was born of God’s seed and spirit (the holy spirit), Jesus’ disciples were also born again of God’s seed and holy spirit.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 103

God’s seed is God’s word (Lk 8:11).

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 103

What the Bible says

1 Peter 1:23-25

Peter says believers have been born anew “from imperishable seed, through the living and enduring word of God,” and “this is the word that was proclaimed to you,” the gospel already preached. Imperishable seed does not need to be re-planted in a new place.

You have been born anew, not from perishable but from imperishable seed, through the living and enduring word of God. For all flesh is like grass and all its glory like the flower of the grass; the grass withers and the flower falls off, but the word of the Lord endures forever. And this is the word that was proclaimed to you.

1 Peter 1:23-25, NET

Lessons (19)

Related terms

Center / Zion Christian Mission Center

센터 / 시온기독교선교센터

VerifiedCritics’ claim

SCJ’s Bible course, which takes 6 to 12 months, is run by the Zion Christian Mission Center (founded 1990). Critics say recruits often are not told it belongs to SCJ until late in the course.

In SCJ’s words

The promised pastor, who has united with the spirit of the truth, has mastered the Bible through the word of truth and is teaching it in Shincheonji Church of Jesus and at Zion Christian Mission Center.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 443

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Church registry and pledge

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

SCJ’s books call the book of life “the registry of heaven” and the register of the overcomer’s church. The lesson says entering Mount Zion “requires signing a commitment,” and the pledge includes “I will not believe the words of the devil, slanders, insults, persecutions, curses posted on the internet, websites, blogs, and other places” and ends, “If I break the above promises, God will punish me” (Lesson 113). The books are silent on the pledge form; it is lesson-sourced.

In SCJ’s words

The book of life is the registry of heaven that records the names of God’s people.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 258

What the Bible says

Matthew 5:34-37

Jesus said, “do not take oaths at all,” and “Let your word be ‘Yes, yes’ or ‘No, no.’ More than this is from the evil one.” A sworn oath of loyalty to an organization, backed by a curse, is what he forbade.

But I say to you, do not take oaths at all—not by heaven because it is the throne of God, not by earth because it is his footstool, and not by Jerusalem because it is the city of the great King. Do not take an oath by your head because you are not able to make one hair white or black. Let your word be ‘Yes, yes’ or ‘No, no.’ More than this is from the evil one.

Matthew 5:34-37, NET

Lessons (10)

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Come out / flee to the mountain

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

The book applies Matthew 24:15-16 to believers who must “escape and flee to the mountain.” The lessons spell it out: “people need to come out of this place and gather at Mount Zion” (Lesson 50), and “congregations, denominations, doctrines, and churches must all come out.” Reluctance is reframed as spiritual: if you feel resistance, “this resistance does not come from the spirit that tells us to flee to the mountain” (Lesson 56).

In SCJ’s words

When the destroyers take over the holy place (i.e., the temple), believers must escape and flee to the mountain (Mt 24:15-16).

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 19

What the Bible says

Luke 21:20-21

Luke records what Jesus meant: “when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies … those who are in Judea must flee to the mountains.” It was a warning about Jerusalem’s siege, not a command to leave your church for another one.

“But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation has come near. Then those who are in Judea must flee to the mountains. Those who are inside the city must depart. Those who are out in the country must not enter it,

Luke 21:20-21, NET

Lessons (44)

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“Compromise Life of Faith = No Study the World”

SCJ’s own account

The board sums up the lesson: “Compromise Life of Faith = No Study the World” (Lesson 11). Refusing to compromise “means persisting in spiritual disciplines like studying Scripture, despite hardship,” and pressure from others is named as a reason people stop. Attendance becomes a test of faithfulness.

In SCJ’s words

Compromise Life of Faith = No Study the World.

SCJ class notes · Lesson 11

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 11, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (4)

Counselor / Advocate

보혜사

VerifiedSCJ’s own account

SCJ’s books describe the overcomer as the Counselor (보혜사, John 14:16) ‘called as the messenger in the flesh’, and Lee has signed works as ‘증인 이만희 보혜사‘. Christian churches identify the Counselor as the Holy Spirit, not a person. The same title was earlier claimed by Tabernacle Temple leader Yoo Jae-yeol.

In SCJ’s words

위와 같은 사명으로 보아 그는 예수께서 끝날에 보내시마고 약속한 보혜사의 사명자임을 의심할 수 없게 된다. (“Judging by the mission above, there can be no doubt that he is the commissioned one of the Counselor whom Jesus promised to send at the end.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, after pp. 174–178 (Ch. 11 Sec. 7 label; PDF p. 115)

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Day of the Lord

주의 날

SCJ’s own account

The lessons place the day of the Lord as the salvation stage after the betrayal and the man of lawlessness (Lessons 10, 37). The book stresses that it will not catch the “children of light” by surprise, meaning those who know SCJ’s testimony. Being told one is already living in the day of the Lord adds urgency to staying.

In SCJ’s words

He also said several times that he would come like a thief in the night at the second coming, but that the day of the Lord would not come like a thief for the children of light.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 376

What the Bible says

2 Peter 3:10

Peter describes the day of the Lord: the heavens disappear “with a horrific noise,” the celestial bodies melt, and the earth is laid bare. That is the end of the present world, not an event inside one denomination.

But the day of the Lord will come like a thief; when it comes, the heavens will disappear with a horrific noise, and the celestial bodies will melt away in a blaze, and the earth and every deed done on it will be laid bare.

2 Peter 3:10, NET

Lessons (7)

Related terms

Destroyers

멸망자

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

SCJ teaches that Pastor Oh Pyeong-ho and the Stewardship Education Center (청지기교육원) were the destroyers who took over the Tabernacle Temple. The takeover was real; the prophetic identification and some dates are disputed.

See also: the “destruction” chapter.

In SCJ’s words

첫 장막을 삼킨 멸망자는 단에 서서 그의 제물을 먹이기 시작하여 만 3년 6개월만에 단상에서 밀려나고, 그 조직 또한 흩어지게 되었음을 분명히 밝혀서 본대로 증거하는 바이다. (“I make it clear and testify as I saw that the destroyer who swallowed the first tabernacle stood at the altar and began to feed [people] his sacrifices, was pushed off the platform after a full three years and six months, and his organisation was also scattered.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, after pp. 249–251 (Ch. 16 Sec. 8; PDF p. 169)

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Related terms

Devil’s food / wine of adulteries / the prostitute

음행의 포도주

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

The book says “Her words are the wine of evil spirits and the venom of serpents, which are their commentaries.” The lesson lists what lies “beyond what is written”: “The internet,” “Blogs,” “Commentaries,” “Videos,” adding, “Venturing beyond the scriptures leads one into Satan’s domain” (Lesson 125). Outside reading is labeled poison.

In SCJ’s words

Her words are the wine of evil spirits and the venom of serpents, which are their commentaries.

2015 · The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation

Source: The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation (English 1st ed., 2015), p. 408 (PDF p. 209)

These merchants are the evangelists who work for the prostitute.

2015 · The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation

Source: The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation (English 1st ed., 2015), p. 435 (PDF p. 222)

What the Bible says

Revelation 17:18

Revelation identifies the woman: “the great city that has sovereignty over the kings of the earth.” She is a world power, not the churches of Christ.

As for the woman you saw, she is the great city that has sovereignty over the kings of the earth.”

Revelation 17:18, NET

Lessons (15)

Related terms

Discernment

SCJ’s own account

The book warns against believing “without discernment” and says God’s children must distinguish the two seeds sown in the church. In class, discernment means applying the course’s tools: “This class is designed to first provide the tools of discernment” (Lesson 65). The same word is turned on doubt itself: “if we experience doubts about registering for God’s kingdom, we must discern which spirit is influencing our thoughts” (Lesson 113), and calling SCJ a “cult” is said to reveal a “lack of understanding and discernment” (Lesson 66).

In SCJ’s words

Believers should not become believers without discernment, thinking they will receive unconditional salvation simply by believing in Jesus.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 234

Since the Bible testifies that the teachings of Satan have been sown in the church, the true children of God must use their judgment to distinguish between the two (Heb 5:14; 1 Jn 5:20).

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 301

What the Bible says

1 John 4:1-2 · Galatians 1:8

John gives the test: every spirit that confesses Jesus as the Christ come in the flesh is from God. Paul adds that even an angel preaching a gospel contrary to the one already preached is condemned. Biblical discernment measures new teaching against the apostles’ gospel, not against a course’s answers.

Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to determine if they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses Jesus as the Christ who has come in the flesh is from God,

1 John 4:1-2, NET

But even if we (or an angel from heaven) should preach a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be condemned to hell!

Galatians 1:8, NET

Lessons (36)

Related terms

Elect

SCJ’s own account

The book says the elect of Matthew 24 “appear after the events of betrayal and destruction.” Lesson 117 says the 42 months were shortened “for the sake of the elect,” who are “the 144,000 and the great multitude.” Being elect is tied to SCJ membership.

In SCJ’s words

The elect mentioned here refer to the chosen people who appear after the events of betrayal and destruction.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 307

What the Bible says

Romans 8:33

“Who will bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies.” The elect are those God justifies in Christ, not a group defined by 1980s events.

Who will bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies.

Romans 8:33, NET

Lessons (13)

Related terms

Elementary teaching and the place of maturity

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

The book says good grain is believers who “have reached maturity in terms of God’s word, faith, and actions.” The lesson sorts history and morals as milk and prophecy and fulfillment as solid food, and states: “Someone who’s been consuming the open word for seven months is more mature than a pastor who only teaches the sealed word for 50 years” (Lesson 92).

In SCJ’s words

The believers that become good grain are those who have reached maturity in terms of God’s word, faith, and actions.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 105

What the Bible says

Colossians 1:28

Paul’s goal is to “present every person mature in Christ.” Maturity is measured by Christ, not by months in a course.

We proclaim him by instructing and teaching all people with all wisdom so that we may present every person mature in Christ.

Colossians 1:28, NET

Lessons (3)

Related terms

First Resurrection

첫째 부활

SCJ’s own account

SCJ’s books teach that the first resurrection (Revelation 20) is the spirits of martyrs uniting with the bodies of living sealed members, who then reign for 1,000 years and escape the second death.

See also: why Lee Man-hee’s claimed immortality matters to Shincheonji.

In SCJ’s words

이들은 그리스도의 지체 가운데서 머리부분을 이루는 구성원들로서 그리스도 예수와 더불어 천년 동안 왕노릇하는 특수 조직으로 첫째 부활에 참예하는 영광을 누린다(계 20:6). (“They are the members that form the head among Christ’s body, a special organisation that reigns with Christ Jesus for a thousand years, and they enjoy the glory of taking part in the first resurrection (Rev 20:6).”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, pp. 109–110 (Ch. 7 Sec. 2, label on same PDF page; PDF p. 71)

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Related terms

Firstfruits

첫 열매

SCJ’s own account

The book says the twelve tribes, the 144,000, are “called the firstfruits” of Revelation 14. The lessons add that the harvest is ripe because there are “over 2 billion Christians in the world” (Lesson 61). Firstfruits status becomes something a student must reach.

In SCJ’s words

In Rv 14:1-5, these twelve tribes (the 144,000) are called the firstfruits that learn and sing the new song before the throne of God.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 105

What the Bible says

1 Corinthians 15:20 · James 1:18

Christ is “the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep,” and James told first-century believers that God made them “a kind of firstfruits” through the message of truth. The title already belonged to believers then.

But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.

1 Corinthians 15:20, NET

By his sovereign plan he gave us birth through the message of truth, that we would be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.

James 1:18, NET

Lessons (9)

Related terms

“Flip phone” faith

SCJ’s own account

A faith that looks only at the first coming is “like an old flip phone: ‘outdated’” (Lesson 56). The same lesson says God grants understanding “based on whether the person deserves it or not,” and asks of students who come late or multitask, “Do they deserve it?” It sets the student’s former faith in Christ as obsolete.

In SCJ’s words

based on whether the person deserves it or not.

SCJ class notes · Lesson 56

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 56, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (1)

Related terms

Fruit

열매

SCJ’s own account

SCJ teaches that its 12 tribes bear 12 kinds of fruit each month (Revelation 22:2), a sign it cites for the overcomer. Its common use for a new recruit still needs a source. The 1985 book uses the word 실과, not 열매.

In SCJ’s words

열 두가지 실과를 맺는다는 말씀도 열 두 지파의 머리된 사도들이 생명수의 말씀을 전파하여 믿는 성도들을 전도하는 것을 말한다. (“The words about bearing twelve kinds of fruit also mean that the apostles who head the twelve tribes preach the word of the water of life and evangelise believers.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, after pp. 325–328 (Ch. 22 Sec. 1; PDF p. 221)

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Fulfillment / Reality

실상

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

SCJ teaches that Revelation is fulfilled by actual people and events in South Korea since 1966, mainly at the Tabernacle Temple, and calls this the ‘reality’ (실상), as opposed to parables. Many of the dates and identities it gives conflict with the historical record.

See also: Shincheonji’s fulfillment teaching vs the record.

In SCJ’s words

그가 남기신 새 언약은 예언이 실상이 되어 나타날 때에 이 일을 보고 믿는 자가 되어 구원에 이르는 것이다. (“The new covenant he left is that when prophecy appears as reality (fulfilment), one sees this, becomes a believer and reaches salvation.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, front matter, before p. 19 (no section label; PDF p. 1; printed page unknown)

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Related terms

“Gas pedal to 100”

SCJ’s own account

Students who passed with 92 or 95 are urged to retake the test: “Hit that gas pedal to 100” (Lesson 63). The instructor says God is looking for “Effort,” and links it to Luke 13:24. Perfect recall is presented as spiritual effort.

In SCJ’s words

Hit that gas pedal to 100.

SCJ class notes · Lesson 63

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 63, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (1)

Gentile churches / traditional churches

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

The book says God “considers them foreigners and gentiles” when their hearts are far from him, and it speaks of betrayers entering “a gentile church.” The lessons apply this to all churches outside SCJ, contrasted with “the 12 tribes of the new kingdom” (Lesson 81). Students learn to see their own family’s church as spiritually foreign.

In SCJ’s words

They draw near to the Lord with their lips, but because their hearts are far from him (Is 29:9-13), he considers them foreigners and gentiles.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 117

What the Bible says

Ephesians 2:19 · Matthew 16:18

Paul tells Gentile believers they “are no longer foreigners and noncitizens” but members of God’s household. Jesus said the gates of Hades “will not overpower” his church. He did not say it would fall and need replacing in 1984.

So then you are no longer foreigners and noncitizens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of God’s household,

Ephesians 2:19, NET

And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overpower it.

Matthew 16:18, NET

Lessons (7)

Related terms

God’s Army of Hope

SCJ’s own account

The phrase appears in a lesson’s stated hope: “Let’s belong to New Jerusalem, Mount Zion and become God’s Army of Hope!” (Lesson 55). It goes with the board’s “War: War of doctrines | Weapon: Word of testimony,” and with the call that this is “a time of running, a time of fleeing.” The book pages checked speak of “heaven’s army,” not this phrase.

In SCJ’s words

Let’s belong to New Jerusalem, Mount Zion and become God’s Army of Hope!

SCJ class notes · Lesson 55

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 55, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (1)

Related terms

Gospel Room

복음방

VerifiedCritics’ claim

A small, often one-on-one Bible study, run by a ‘teacher’, that comes before the Center. Former members describe running gospel rooms as a recruitment role.

Former members’ term. It doesn’t appear in the SCJ books we checked.

Read our article →

Related terms

Graduation

수료

VerifiedSCJ’s own account

Members join SCJ after passing the Center’s final exam and attending a graduation (수료식). SCJ publicizes mass graduations of tens of thousands.

SCJ’s own term.

Read our article →

Related terms

Great Multitude

흰 무리

SCJ’s own accountCritics’ claim

SCJ teaches that after the 144,000 are sealed, a countless ‘great multitude in white’ (Revelation 7:9) will come. In 2020 Lee described the COVID-19 crisis as the tribulation before them. Critics document changes in what SCJ says about their eternal life.

In SCJ’s words

거룩하게 구별된 흰 무리는 십사만 사천에 이어 환란 가운데서 빠져 나온 성도들로서 천년 안에 죽는 일이 있더라도 그의 선행으로 인하여 역시 복이 있음을 말한 것이다. (“The holy, set-apart white multitude are the saints who came out of the tribulation after the 144,000; it says that even if they die within the thousand years, they are still blessed because of their good deeds.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, after pp. 221–222 (Ch. 14 Sec. 5; PDF p. 148)

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Related terms

Great tribulation

SCJ’s own account

SCJ’s parables book says the “great multitude dressed in white” comes to the twelve tribes “from the great tribulation all over the world.” In the lesson it is a coming event that will push outsiders to SCJ, which encourages students to join before it arrives.

In SCJ’s words

The winds blow again after this, which is when the great multitude dressed in white (the multitude in white) come to the Twelve Tribes, God’s kingdom, from the great tribulation all over the world.

2021 · The Explanation of Parables

Source: The Explanation of Parables (2021), p. 85 (as quoted on BVC Lesson 50)

What the Bible says

Matthew 24:29-30

Jesus ties the tribulation’s end to his visible return: after it, “all the tribes of the earth … will see the Son of Man arriving on the clouds of heaven.” It is not a crisis that sends people to one organization.

“Immediately after the suffering of those days, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of heaven will be shaken. Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and all the tribes of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man arriving on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.

Matthew 24:29-30, NET

Lessons (7)

Related terms

Harvest class

SCJ’s own account

Instructors address students directly as “Harvest class” (Lessons 35, 36, 37). The label puts the student inside SCJ’s harvest story before they know it is SCJ, and it is used with responsibility for family: “How will your family be safe because of your efforts, because of your work? … You’re the connection” (Lesson 36). The lessons do not define the term; that reading is ours.

In SCJ’s words

What about you, Harvest Class? How will your family be safe because of your efforts, because of your work?

SCJ class notes · Lesson 36

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 36, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (4)

Related terms

Harvester

추수꾼

Critics’ claim

Critics and former members describe ‘harvesters’ as SCJ members who attend other churches without disclosing that they are SCJ members, in order to recruit. SCJ frames recruitment as the ‘harvest’ of Matthew 13.

In SCJ’s words

Therefore, all pastors and believers in the world must confess the truth of the prophecies in Rv 14. and seek the harvesters so they too can be harvested to the barn of salvation.

2015 · The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation

Source: The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation (English 1st ed., 2015), p. 345 (PDF p. 177)

Read our article →

Related terms

Heaven replica

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

The book says Moses saw God’s spiritual tabernacle and was told to build “a copy and shadow” of it on earth. The lessons apply this to SCJ’s structure, so there “should also be 24 elders” and “a replication of the four living creatures” (Lesson 50), and “If any of these elements is missing from a place, it cannot be considered Mount Zion” (Lesson 105). The organization chart becomes proof.

In SCJ’s words

Like John, Moses saw God’s spiritual tabernacle before being told to build a copy and shadow of that tabernacle on Earth.

2015 · The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation

Source: The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation (English 1st ed., 2015), p. 102 (PDF p. 56)

What the Bible says

Hebrews 9:24

Hebrews says Christ did not enter “a sanctuary made with hands—the representation of the true sanctuary—but into heaven itself.” The copy ended when the reality came. It is not rebuilt as a church organization chart.

For Christ did not enter a sanctuary made with hands—the representation of the true sanctuary—but into heaven itself, and he appears now in God’s presence for us.

Hebrews 9:24, NET

Lessons (4)

Related terms

Home blessings

SCJ’s own account

Students are told that “Doing home blessings/memorization and constantly immersing ourselves in the Word allows more of it to dwell in our hearts” (Lesson 12). The homework exists so that verses come to mind “when someone asks a question” (Lesson 45). Skipping it is listed as one of the ways of being the “path” soil that does not bear fruit (Lesson 76), so a missed assignment becomes a spiritual failure.

In SCJ’s words

Doing home blessings/memorization and constantly immersing ourselves in the Word allows more of it to dwell in our hearts and minds.

SCJ class notes · Lesson 12

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 12, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (6)

Related terms

HWPL / IWPG / IPYG

하늘문화세계평화광복

VerifiedCritics’ claim

HWPL (Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light, founded 2013) and its women’s (IWPG) and youth (IPYG) groups are peace NGOs led by Lee Man-hee. Critics call them front groups for SCJ; HWPL says it is separate.

Critics’ term. SCJ doesn’t use it; the SCJ books we checked don’t mention HWPL.

Read our article →

Related terms

Instructor

강사

SCJ’s own account

The book says SCJ uses “instructor” rather than “pastor” because it does not ordain by laying on of hands. In class, instructors invite checking (“I pray you’re not becoming comfortable merely listening to [the instructor] and taking everything I say as true,” Lesson 43) while also teaching that the class is a battle: “We can’t afford to become comfortable, everyone. This is not a time for complacency. We’re in battle” (Lesson 43).

In SCJ’s words

Instead, we use the term ‘instructor’ for people who teach the revelation of heaven by receiving the holy spirit.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 329

Lessons (47)

Related terms

Kingdom of the world / 6,000 years of Satan’s rule

SCJ’s own account

The book says God worked for 6,000 years to capture Satan and that this is accomplished “at the time of Revelation’s fulfillment.” The lessons say the world has been Satan’s kingdom “6,000 years, since the fall of Adam” (Lesson 48), and that it becomes God’s by the testimony of the one who overcomes. The student’s present church is placed inside Satan’s kingdom.

In SCJ’s words

For 6,000 years since the fall of Adam, God has been working continually to capture Satan, the ancient serpent. God’s purpose is finally accomplished at the time of Revelation’s fulfillment.

2015 · The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation

Source: The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation (English 1st ed., 2015), p. 487 (PDF p. 248)

What the Bible says

Matthew 28:18 · Colossians 1:13

After his resurrection Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” Paul says believers have already been transferred “to the kingdom of the Son.”

Then Jesus came up and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.

Matthew 28:18, NET

He delivered us from the power of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of the Son he loves,

Colossians 1:13, NET

Lessons (20)

Related terms

Leaf

잎사귀

Critics’ claim

Critics and former members say ‘leaves’ are SCJ members who sit in Center classes posing as fellow students in order to encourage recruits.

Former members’ term. The SCJ books we checked use the word only in a different sense.

Read our article →

Related terms

Levels / parables test / table of contents

SCJ’s own account

Students move from the introductory level to the intermediate and advanced levels, with a parables test along the way (Lessons 52, 62). They are told to keep a parables table of contents “listing each parable’s name, meaning and verse” (Lesson 43), and that the lecture “is actually a small part of the course” compared with meetings (Lesson 52). The tests reward recall of SCJ’s definitions, and the new level is presented as harder: “We’re starting the intermediate level, and things are different now” (Lesson 71).

In SCJ’s words

We’re starting the intermediate level, and things are different now.

SCJ class notes · Lesson 71

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 71, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (13)

Related terms

Malpractice

SCJ’s own account

A pastor who knew and did not teach it would be guilty of “deep malpractice,” and “That person should step down from their position” (Lesson 49). The notes then ask, “If we’re hearing this for the first time now, what does that mean about the place where I have been?” It turns the student against their own pastor.

In SCJ’s words

If we’re hearing this for the first time now, what does that mean about the place where I have been?

SCJ class notes · Lesson 49

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 49, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (1)

Related terms

Mark of the beast

짐승의 표

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

The book says people receive the mark on their foreheads “when they receive a laying on of hands performed in accordance with the ecclesiastical laws and traditions of the beast,” and on their right hands “when they raise their hands to take an oath acknowledging the beast’s teachings.” The lesson dates the marking to a pastors’ appointment service on September 20, 1981 (Lesson 119). This makes ordination and membership vows in other churches the mark, while SCJ requires its own signed pledge (Lesson 113).

In SCJ’s words

People receive the mark of the beast on their foreheads when they receive a laying on of hands performed in accordance with the ecclesiastical laws and traditions of the beast.

2015 · The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation

Source: The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation (English 1st ed., 2015), p. 312 (PDF p. 161)

People receive the mark on their right hands when they raise their hands to take an oath acknowledging the beast’s teachings.

2015 · The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation

Source: The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation (English 1st ed., 2015), p. 312 (PDF p. 161)

What the Bible says

Revelation 13:16-17

Revelation ties the mark to the beast’s name and number and to who may buy or sell. It says nothing about ordination in a church. If an oath were the mark, SCJ’s own registry pledge would qualify.

He also caused everyone … to obtain a mark on their right hand or on their forehead. Thus no one was allowed to buy or sell things unless he bore the mark of the beast—that is, his name or his number.

Revelation 13:16-17, NET

Lessons (10)

Related terms

Memory verse

SCJ’s own account

Most lessons end with “The memory verse is …” (for example John 14:29 in Lesson 10). Memorizing ties a verse to SCJ’s interpretation of it, so the verse brings back the interpretation later. It goes with home blessings, below.

In SCJ’s words

The memory verse is John 14:29.

SCJ class notes · Lesson 10

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 10, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (44)

Related terms

Mini-revelation (Matthew 24)

SCJ’s own account

Instructors call Matthew 24 “a mini-Revelation” (Lessons 31, 48, 59, 74) so its signs can be read as figures: “If the sun went dark, would there be any survivors? No” (Lesson 48). That reading turns Jesus’ warning about the destruction of Jerusalem into a command to leave one’s church: to obey it, “we need to know what the abomination is, what the holy place refers to, and what mountains we are supposed to flee to” (Lesson 31).

In SCJ’s words

Matthew 24 is a mini-Revelation

SCJ class notes · Lesson 31

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 31, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

What the Bible says

Matthew 24:26-27 · Matthew 24:30

Matthew 24 itself warns against this. If someone says, “Look, he is in the inner rooms,” “do not believe him,” because the Son of Man’s coming is like lightning across the sky, and “all the tribes of the earth will mourn” when they see him.

So then, if someone says to you, ‘Look, he is in the wilderness,’ do not go out, or ‘Look, he is in the inner rooms,’ do not believe him. For just like the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so the coming of the Son of Man will be.

Matthew 24:26-27, NET

Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and all the tribes of the earth will mourn. They will see the Son of Man arriving on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.

Matthew 24:30, NET

Lessons (5)

Related terms

Mo-ryak (Deception / Strategy)

모략

Critics’ claim

Former members report that SCJ justifies lying during recruitment and to outsiders as ‘mo-ryak’ (strategy), including front churches and centers. SCJ disputes how critics describe its outreach.

Former members’ term. The SCJ books we checked use the word only in a different sense.

Read our article →

Related terms

Mount Zion

시온산

SCJ’s own account

SCJ teaches that ‘Mount Zion’ of Revelation 14:1 and the ‘mountain’ to which believers must flee (Matthew 24:16) is SCJ itself.

In SCJ’s words

제19장 백마와 탄자 편에서 언급한 대로 이 땅의 사명자인 백마를 중심하여 모인 무리가 그 위에 타신 성령의 지시에 따라 십사만 사천을 인 치매 새 예루살렘이 신부로 단장한 것이요, 십사만 사천 인이 서 있는 곳이 시온산이다. (“As mentioned in Chapter 19 on the white horse and its rider, the group gathered around the white horse, the commissioned one on this earth, seals the 144,000 at the direction of the Spirit riding on it; this is the New Jerusalem adorned as a bride, and the place where the 144,000 stand is Mount Zion.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, pp. 312–314 (Ch. 21 Sec. 2, label on same PDF page; PDF p. 211)

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Related terms

New Heaven and New Earth

새 하늘 새 땅

VerifiedSCJ’s own account

‘Shincheonji’ (신천지) means ‘new heaven and new earth’ (Revelation 21:1). SCJ teaches that it is that new heaven and earth, a kingdom created in 1984.

See also: the “salvation” chapter.

In SCJ’s words

따라서 처음 하늘 땅이 소멸함과 동시에 그 멸망의 현장에서 빼내심을 입은 씨를 중심하여 인 치는 역사가 벌어진다(제7장 참조), 그리하여 십사만 사천이 인 맞아 새로운 나라가 탄생하매 이것이 새 하늘과 새 땅이요 또한 신천 신지이다. (“So as soon as the first heaven and earth pass away, the work of sealing unfolds around the seed taken out of that scene of destruction (see Chapter 7); thus the 144,000 are sealed and a new nation is born, and this is the new heaven and new earth, that is, Shincheon Shinji.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, pp. 311–312 (Ch. 21 Sec. 1, label on same PDF page; PDF p. 210)

Read our article →

Related terms

New John

새 요한

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

SCJ’s teaching course calls Lee ‘New John’, the person who it says ate the opened scroll of Revelation 10 and testifies to its fulfilment. The 1985 book speaks only of an unnamed ‘John-like figure’. Its wording there is 사도 요한적 사명자 (one with the apostle John’s mission), not 새 요한.

See also: the “salvation” chapter.

In SCJ’s words

당시의 밧모섬에서 펼쳐진 이 놀라운 영적 체험의 사건은 장차 종말에 이르러 사도 요한적 사명자 즉 그와 같은 인물이 출현하여 그리스도로부터 성령안수를 받고 그리스도의 인도함을 따라 땅에서 사명을 다할 것을 소급하여 보여준 일이다. (“This amazing event of spiritual experience on Patmos at that time showed in advance that at the end an apostle-John-like commissioned one, that is, a figure like him, would appear, receive the laying on of hands of the Holy Spirit from Christ, and fulfil his mission on earth as Christ leads him.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, after pp. 36–38 (Ch. 1 Sec. 8; PDF p. 25; Amennews also cites pp. 37–38)

Read our article →

Related terms

New kingdom, new people

SCJ’s own account

The book says New Spiritual Israel is “God’s new kingdom and people,” created by harvesting believers from Jesus’ churches. Lesson 81 says a new kingdom and new people is “the same as saying a new heaven and a new earth,” contrasted with “Traditional churches.” Belonging is defined by leaving those churches.

In SCJ’s words

New Spiritual Israel is God’s new kingdom and people created in the time of the end through the harvesting of grain-like believers from the churches of Jesus.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 260

What the Bible says

1 Peter 2:9-10

Peter told scattered first-century believers, “you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation,” and “now you are God’s people.” God’s new people already existed then.

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of his own, so that you may proclaim the virtues of the one who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. You once were not a people, but now you are God’s people. You were shown no mercy, but now you have received mercy.

1 Peter 2:9-10, NET

Lessons (10)

Related terms

Nicolaitans

니골라당

SCJ’s own account

SCJ teaches that the Nicolaitans of Revelation 2 were the ‘destroyers’ who took over the Tabernacle Temple, and that the overcomer defeated them.

See also: the “destruction” chapter.

In SCJ’s words

뿐이랴, 초대 교회에 거짓 개종하여 들어온 니골라나, 오늘날 첫 장막에 들어온 짐승들도 멸망자였다. (“What is more, Nicolas, who entered the early church by false conversion, and the beasts who have entered the first tabernacle today were destroyers too.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, after pp. 204–209 (Ch. 13 Sec. 5; PDF p. 137)

Read our article →

Related terms

OPAGH

SCJ’s own account

OPAGH is a memory aid for sorting parable figures into objects, people, animals, geographic locations and historical events (Lesson 14). It trains students to read biblical images as codes for people and groups, which SCJ then identifies. The lesson adds, “The consequences are severe if we don’t” understand.

In SCJ’s words

Understanding these deeper teachings leads to forgiveness and salvation.

SCJ class notes · Lesson 14

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 14, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (2)

Related terms

Open word / sealed word

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

SCJ’s book says other churches teach “the rules and traditions of men,” while Shincheonji alone preaches “the opened word of revelation.” In class the phrase works as a ranking: a student with months of SCJ teaching is placed above any pastor outside it, so outside teachers can be dismissed before they are heard. One lesson puts it bluntly: “Someone who’s been consuming the open word for seven months is more mature than a pastor who only teaches the sealed word for 50 years” (Lesson 92).

In SCJ’s words

The churches of the world are teaching the rules and traditions of men, but we at Shincheonji have received and are preaching the opened word of revelation (Rv 10, 14:1-6).

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 370

Since pastors teach only with the commands of men, this is all their people can learn.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 117

What the Bible says

Revelation 22:10 · Deuteronomy 29:29

Revelation was given open. The angel told John not to seal it, “because the time is near.” What God has revealed “belongs to us and our descendants.” It was not locked away for 1,900 years waiting for one teacher in Korea to unlock it.

Then he said to me, “Do not seal up the words of the prophecy contained in this book, because the time is near.

Revelation 22:10, NET

The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but those that are revealed belong to us and our descendants forever, so that we might obey all the words of this law.

Deuteronomy 29:29, NET

Lessons (36)

Related terms

Orthodoxy / heresy

정통 / 이단

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

The book defines orthodoxy by location: where God and his word of revelation are, not church history or creeds. The lessons put it on the board as “Orthodoxy = God, God’s kingdom of 12 Tribes” (Lesson 65), which makes every other church the heresy. When outsiders call SCJ a “cult,” students are told that “If someone calls what is true a cult, it reveals their lack of understanding and discernment” (Lesson 66), so the criticism is taken as confirmation.

In SCJ’s words

the place where God resides, the place from which God’s word of revelation comes, should be considered true orthodoxy. If, however, God leaves a place, it is transformed from orthodoxy into heresy.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 369

Biblical orthodoxy refers specifically to the promised pastor and his followers who have God’s revelation.

2015 · The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation

Source: The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation (English 1st ed., 2015), p. 363 (PDF p. 186)

What the Bible says

Jude 1:3 · Galatians 1:8

Orthodoxy is “the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints,” not a place that moves to wherever a new teacher stands. Paul says a gospel contrary to the one the apostles preached is condemned, even if an angel brings it.

Dear friends, although I have been eager to write to you about our common salvation, I now feel compelled instead to write to encourage you to contend earnestly for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints.

Jude 1:3, NET

But even if we (or an angel from heaven) should preach a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be condemned to hell!

Galatians 1:8, NET

Lessons (10)

Related terms

“Our company”

SCJ’s own account

John the Baptist is used as a warning: “He had bad influences around him, and they really turned his heart from Jesus. Our company truly matters” (Lesson 73). In context it teaches students to see family, friends or pastors who question the course as dangerous company.

In SCJ’s words

He had bad influences around him, and they really turned his heart from Jesus. Our company truly matters.

SCJ class notes · Lesson 73

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 73, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (1)

Related terms

Overcomer

이긴자

SCJ’s own account

SCJ teaches that the ‘one who overcomes’ in Revelation 2–3 is a single person today, Lee Man-hee, who it says defeated the Nicolaitans, and that salvation comes only through him. Its 1985 book also speaks of plural overcomers.

See also: the “salvation” chapter; why Lee Man-hee’s claimed immortality matters to Shincheonji.

In SCJ’s words

그가 남기신 피의 언약은 인류 종말에 나타낼 일로서 오늘에 이긴자 곧 짐승과 싸워서 이긴 그로 말미암아 먹을 수 있는 피와 살이다. (“The covenant of blood he left is a thing to be revealed at the end of humanity: it is the blood and flesh that can be eaten through today’s overcomer, that is, the one who fought the beast and won.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, after pp. 335–336 (last label is Ch. 22 Sec. 7, 13 PDF pages earlier; PDF p. 243; printed page uncertain)

Read our article →

Related terms

Parables

비유

SCJ’s own account

SCJ teaches that the Bible is written in parables that each correspond to a fixed real-world meaning (seed = word, tree = person, etc.), which only its teaching can unlock.

In SCJ’s words

창세 이후 금일에 이르기까지 감추어진 천국의 비밀 곧 일곱 금 촛대와 일곱 사자들에 관한 말씀이 비유와 비사의 베일을 벗고 적나라하게 드러나는 계시의 완성을 육하원칙에 입각하여 사실대로 전파하는 것이다. (“It proclaims factually, by the five-W-and-H principle, the completion of revelation in which the secret of heaven hidden from creation until today, namely the word about the seven golden lampstands and the seven messengers, takes off the veil of parables and figures and is laid bare.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, front matter, before p. 19 (no section label; PDF p. 1; printed page unknown)

The figures one by one (44)

3 Contradictions

Open a figure to see SCJ’s current definition. Where SCJ’s older books contradict it, both are shown. “What the Bible says” opens the passage itself.

Seed 씨 Luke 8:11; Matt 13:18-23

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative seed is the word.

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 10

What the Bible says

Luke 8:11 · Luke 8:12-15 · Matt 13:38 · 1 Cor 15:36-38

The Bible does use this picture, but only in the sower parable, where Jesus says, “The seed is the word of God” (Luke 8:11, NET), and the soils are ways of hearing it (Luke 8:12-15). In the next parable he gives the seed a different meaning, “the good seed are the people of the kingdom” (Matt 13:38, NET), and Paul uses seed for the body that is sown and raised (1 Cor 15:36-38), so seed isn’t a fixed code, and no passage makes it the Holy Spirit or a bridegroom.

Field 밭 Matt 24:40-41

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative field is “a person’s heart and the world” (Mt 13:24, 38).

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 12

What the Bible says

Matt 24:37-41 · Matt 13:38

In Matt 24:40-41 two men are working in a field and two women are grinding at a mill, and one of each pair is taken when the Son of Man comes, as suddenly as the flood came in Noah’s day (24:37-39). These are ordinary people at work. Where Jesus does interpret a field, he says, “The field is the world” (Matt 13:38, NET), not pastors or sowers.

Tree 나무 Rev 7:1; Ps 1:3

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative tree is “an inner person born again of the seed of the word” and “a shepherd.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 14

What the Bible says

Rev 7:1-3 · Ps 1:3 · Judg 9:8-15

In Rev 7:1-3 the winds are held back from “the earth or the sea or the trees” (7:3, NET) until God’s servants are sealed, so the trees are listed with the earth and sea as things that could be harmed, and God’s servants are a separate group. Elsewhere a tree is a simile for the righteous person (Ps 1:3) or, in Jotham’s fable, a picture of would-be kings (Judg 9:8-15), so it has no single meaning.

Tree of life 생명나무 Gen 2:9; Prov 3:18; Rev 2:7; 22:2

SCJ’s current definition:

Furthermore, a true shepherd born of God’s seed and the organization centered around him become the tree of life.

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 14

What the Bible says

Gen 2:9 · Gen 3:22-24 · Prov 3:18 · Prov 11:30 · Prov 13:12 · Prov 15:4 · Rev 2:7 · Rev 22:2 · Rev 22:14

In Genesis the tree of life grows in the garden, and after the fall God guards the way to it (Gen 2:9; 3:22-24). Proverbs uses it as a simile for wisdom (“She is like a tree of life to those who grasp onto her”, Prov 3:18, NET) and for other good things (Prov 11:30; 13:12; 15:4). Revelation pictures it in the new Jerusalem, with fruit and leaves “for the healing of the nations” (Rev 2:7; 22:2, 14), so it is something to eat and have a right to, not a person.

Tree of knowledge of good and evil 선악을 알게 하는 나무 Gen 2:9, 16-17

SCJ’s current definition:

On the contrary, the false shepherds born of Satan’s seed, and their organizations, are the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 14

What the Bible says

Gen 2:9 · Gen 2:16-17 · Gen 3:6 · Gen 3:22-23

Genesis presents this as one of the trees God made to grow in the garden, with a command not to eat from it on pain of death (Gen 2:9, 16-17). Eve sees that its fruit is “good for food” and a delight to the eyes, and the result is disobedience and exile (Gen 3:6, 22-23). The text treats it as a tree and a test of obedience. It doesn’t call the tree a pastor or its fruit a teaching.

Bird 새 Matt 13:4, 19, 31-32; Rev 18:2

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative bird is “spirit.” Just as a bird perches on a tree grown from a seed, a spirit comes to a person (shepherd and congregation) born again of the seed of the word.

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 16

What the Bible says

Matt 13:4 · Matt 13:19 · Matt 13:31-32 · Rev 18:2 · Matt 6:26

In the sower parable Jesus explains the birds that eat the seed as the evil one snatching away the word (Matt 13:4, 19). In the mustard-seed parable, a few verses later, the birds simply nest in the grown tree and aren’t explained (13:31-32). In Rev 18:2 fallen Babylon becomes a haunt for every unclean bird, and in Matt 6:26 the birds are real birds that the Father feeds. Each passage sets its own sense, and none makes birds the Holy Spirit or the spirits of martyrs.

Food at the proper time 때를 따라 양식 Matt 24:45-51

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of figurative food is “the word.” At the Second Coming, God’s food is the testimony of the fulfillment of the New Testament prophecies, and it is the “food at the proper time (Mt 24:45-47)” that Jesus gives to the faithful and wise servant.

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, pp. 18–19

What the Bible says

Matt 24:45-51 · Luke 12:41-48 · Ps 145:15

Jesus’ parable is about a servant whom the master puts over his household “to give the other slaves their food at the proper time” (Matt 24:45, NET), and it asks whether he will be found faithful or abusive when the master returns unexpectedly (24:46-51). In Luke’s version Peter asks whether the parable is for the disciples or for everyone, and Jesus answers about any servant entrusted with much (Luke 12:41-48). Elsewhere the same phrase describes God feeding all creatures (Ps 145:15), so it isn’t a fixed term for one end-time message.

Yeast 누룩 Matt 13:33; 16:6-12

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative yeast is “instructions.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 20

What the Bible says

Matt 13:33 · Matt 16:6-12 · Luke 12:1 · 1 Cor 5:6-8

In Matt 13:33 leaven is a picture of the kingdom spreading through the dough. In Matt 16:6-12 the disciples come to understand that the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees is their teaching, and in Luke 12:1 the leaven of the Pharisees is hypocrisy. Paul contrasts leaven, meaning malice and evil, with “the bread without yeast, the bread of sincerity and truth” (1 Cor 5:6-8, NET), so in that passage truth is the bread without yeast, not a good yeast.

Bowl/vessel 대접 Rev 5:8

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative bowl is “a person’s heart” and “church.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 22

What the Bible says

Rev 5:8 · Rev 15:7 · Rev 16:1 · 2 Cor 4:7 · 2 Tim 2:20-21

Rev 5:8 explains its own image: the elders hold “golden bowls full of incense (which are the prayers of the saints)” (NET). Later, golden bowls “full of the wrath of God” are handed to seven angels, who pour them out (Rev 15:7; 16:1). Paul uses vessels for people in a separate metaphor (2 Cor 4:7; 2 Tim 2:20-21), so the bowls are containers whose contents the text defines, and the text doesn’t make them people.

Pot 질그릇 Jer 18:1-6 (likely; SCJ passage not identified)

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative pot is an “organization like a church.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 32

What the Bible says

Ezek 11:3 · Ezek 11:7 · Ezek 11:10-11 · Jer 18:6

In Ezek 11:3 the leaders of Jerusalem say, “the city is a cooking pot, and we are the meat in it” (NET), and God answers that the corpses they have left in the city are the meat and that “this city is the cooking pot, but I will take you out of it” (11:7, NET). The pot is the city of Jerusalem, and the passage is a judgment on its leaders, who will be judged at the border of Israel (11:10-11). Where the Bible explains a potter’s clay, it says, “In my hands, you, O nation of Israel, are just like the clay in this potter’s hand” (Jer 18:6, NET).

Scales 저울 Rev 6:5-6

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative scales is “the word of God that weighs one’s faith and actions.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 24

What the Bible says

Rev 6:5-6 · Lev 26:26 · Ezek 4:16 · Prov 11:1 · Dan 5:27

The rider on the black horse holds a pair of scales while a voice gives the price of a quart of wheat for a denarius, and the context points to scarcity (Rev 6:5-6). The Old Testament uses eating bread “by weight” as a sign of famine (Lev 26:26; Ezek 4:16). Elsewhere scales stand for honest trade (Prov 11:1) or, in one inscription, for God weighing a king (Dan 5:27), so they aren’t a fixed symbol for God’s word.

Staff/rod 지팡이 Rev 11:1; Rev 2:27 (Ps 2:9)

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative staff is “the word” and a “person with the word.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 26

What the Bible says

Rev 11:1 · Rev 21:15 · Rev 2:27 · Ps 2:9 · Rev 19:15

In Rev 11:1 John is given “a measuring rod like a staff” and told to measure the temple, the altar and the worshipers (NET), so the rod is a tool in his hand, and in Rev 21:15 an angel measures the city with a golden rod in the same way. The “rod of iron” of Rev 2:27 is a different image, taken from Ps 2:9, of ruling the nations, and Rev 19:15 lists that rod separately from the sword from Christ’s mouth.

Fire 불 Rev 8:5; Jer 5:14

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative fire is “the word that consumes and judges.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 28

What the Bible says

Rev 8:5 · Jer 5:14 · Exod 3:2 · Acts 2:3 · 1 Cor 3:13

The Bible does use this picture, but only in particular passages: in Rev 8:5 altar fire thrown to the earth brings thunder and an earthquake, and in Jer 5:14 God makes his words in Jeremiah’s mouth a fire against that people. Elsewhere fire is God’s presence in the burning bush (Exod 3:2), the tongues spreading out “like a fire” at Pentecost (Acts 2:3, NET), or the fire that tests each person’s work (1 Cor 3:13), so fire doesn’t always mean a word of wrath.

Censer 향로 Rev 8:3-5 Contradiction

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative censer is “a person’s heart.” At the Second Coming, God’s censer (golden censer, Rv 8:3) is the shepherd who received the word of truth.

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, pp. 30–31

How SCJ’s account changed

Earlier

즉, 향과 향로는 기도와 찬양이다(계 5:8). (“That is, the incense and the censer are prayer and praise.”)

1985 · 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), Ch. 8 Sec. 1, pp. 119–121; PDF 77

Same passage (Rev 8:3-5): the censer is prayer and praise in 1985; a person’s heart and the shepherd in 2021.

What the Bible says

Rev 8:3-5 · Lev 16:12-13 · Num 16:17-18

In Rev 8:3-5 an angel with a golden censer is given incense to offer “with the prayers of all the saints” (8:3, NET), and then he fills the censer with fire from the altar and throws it on the earth. The text keeps the censer, the incense and the prayers apart, and the censer is the angel’s utensil, as censers are in Lev 16:12-13 and Num 16:17-18. SCJ’s own books give different readings of this verse (see How SCJ’s account changed above).

Light/darkness 빛 John 1:4-9; 8:12

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative light is the “word of life.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 34

What the Bible says

John 1:4-5 · John 1:9 · John 8:12 · Matt 5:14 · Ps 119:105

John says the life in the Word was “the light of mankind” and that the darkness has not overcome it (John 1:4-5, 9, NET), and Jesus says, “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12, NET). Jesus also tells his disciples, “You are the light of the world” (Matt 5:14, NET), and the psalmist calls God’s word “a lamp to walk by, and a light to illumine my path” (Ps 119:105, NET), so the light is applied to Christ, his followers and Scripture, and never to a later messenger.

Lampstand 촛대 Rev 1:20

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative lampstand is “spirit” and “a person of duty (a person of duty with the spirit).”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 36

What the Bible says

Rev 1:20 · Rev 1:11 · Rev 11:4 · Zech 4:2-6

The Bible does use this picture, but only in Rev 1:20, where “the seven lampstands are the seven churches” (NET), meaning the seven named churches of 1:11 that are addressed in chapters 2-3. In Rev 11:4 the two witnesses are “the two olive trees and the two lampstands” (NET), and Zechariah’s lampstand vision is explained as a word to Zerubbabel about God’s Spirit (Zech 4:2-6), so lampstand isn’t a fixed code for every church.

Blind & deaf 소경 Isa 6:9-10; Matt 13:13-15

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative blind and deaf is “one who can see and hear God’s word but cannot perceive.” The reality of the blind and the deaf at the Second Coming is the false shepherds and their followers of the world who do not know the New Testament prophecies (Revelation).

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, pp. 38–39

What the Bible says

Isa 6:9-10 · Matt 13:13-15 · Acts 28:25-27 · Isa 35:5 · Matt 11:5

Isaiah is sent to a people who will hear but not understand and see but not perceive (Isa 6:9-10). Jesus says this prophecy is fulfilled in the crowds he was speaking to (Matt 13:13-15), and Paul applies it to the Jewish leaders in Rome (Acts 28:25-27). Elsewhere, giving sight to the blind and hearing to the deaf is literal healing that signals God’s salvation (Isa 35:5; Matt 11:5).

Wedding clothes/fine linen 예복 Rev 19:8; Matt 22:11-12

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative wedding clothes is “righteous acts.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 40

What the Bible says

Rev 19:8 · Rev 18:12 · Rev 18:16 · Luke 16:19 · Matt 22:11-12

The Bible does use this picture, but only in Rev 19:8, where “the fine linen is the righteous deeds of the saints” (NET). In the previous chapter fine linen is Babylon’s merchandise and clothing (Rev 18:12, 16), and the rich man in Luke 16:19 dresses in purple and fine linen. The wedding garment in Matt 22:11-12 belongs to a separate parable and isn’t explained there.

Treasure 보화 Matt 13:52; 13:44

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative treasure is “the word of truth” and “a person with the word of truth.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 42

What the Bible says

Matt 13:44 · Matt 13:35 · Matt 13:11 · Matt 13:34-35 · Matt 13:52

Jesus says, “The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure, hidden in a field” (Matt 13:44, NET), and the finder joyfully sells all he has to buy the field, so the treasure stands for the kingdom itself and its worth. The chapter presents parables as revealing hidden things, not sealing them: “I will announce what has been hidden from the foundation of the world” (13:35, NET; cf. 13:11). In 13:52 the trained scribe “brings out of his treasure what is new and old” (NET), without saying what those things are.

Rich man 부자 Luke 16:19-31 (likely)

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative rich man is “a person who has great pride in possessing a lot of knowledge of the word (spiritual riches).”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 44

What the Bible says

Luke 16:19-31 · Luke 16:19 · Luke 12:16-21 · Luke 12:21

The rich man of Luke 16:19-31 “dressed in purple and fine linen and … feasted sumptuously every day” (16:19, NET) while Lazarus lay hungry at his gate, so his riches are clothes and food. In Luke 12:16-21 a rich man’s land produces a big crop and he plans bigger barns, and Jesus concludes, “So it is with the one who stores up riches for himself, but is not rich toward God” (12:21, NET). In both passages the wealth is literal possessions, and neither speaks of knowledge of the word.

Water 물 Amos 8:11; Gen 1:20

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative water is the “Word.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 46

What the Bible says

Amos 8:11 · John 4:14 · John 7:38-39 · Rev 17:15 · Gen 1:20

Amos 8:11 contrasts real shortage with spiritual famine: “not a shortage of food or water but an end to divine revelation” (NET). Jesus uses water for the life he gives (John 4:14), and John explains the rivers of living water as the Spirit (John 7:38-39). Rev 17:15 explains the waters as peoples, and in Gen 1:20 the waters are simply the sea teeming with life, so water has no single coded meaning.

Spring/fountain/well 샘 Rev 8:10-11; Rev 16:4 Contradiction

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative spring is a “shepherd” from whom the water of life comes and the shepherd’s “temple (church).”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 48

How SCJ’s account changed

Earlier

강들은 목자들을 말하며 물샘은 그들에게서 흘러나가는 말씀으로서 그들의 심령세계를 말한다. (“The rivers refer to the pastors, and the springs are the word that flows out from them, referring to their spiritual world.”)

1985 · 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), Ch. 8 Sec. 4, pp. 124–125; PDF 81

Same verse (Rev 8:10): the springs are the word flowing from pastors in 1985; a shepherd and his temple (church) in 2021.

What the Bible says

Rev 8:10-11 · Rev 16:4-6 · Exod 7:19-21 · Jer 2:13

Under the third trumpet a star falls on a third of the rivers and springs, the waters turn bitter, and many people die from drinking them (Rev 8:10-11). Under the third bowl the rivers and springs become blood, as a judgment on those who shed the blood of saints (Rev 16:4-6), which echoes the Nile turning to blood in Exod 7:19-21. Elsewhere God calls himself “the fountain of life-giving water” (Jer 2:13, NET). SCJ’s own books give different readings of this verse (see How SCJ’s account changed above).

River 강 Rev 16:4; Rev 8:10 Contradiction

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative river is “a disciple” and “the heart of an evangelist.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 50

How SCJ’s account changed

Earlier

강들은 목자들을 말하며 물샘은 그들에게서 흘러나가는 말씀으로서 그들의 심령세계를 말한다. (“The rivers refer to the pastors, and the springs are the word that flows out from them, referring to their spiritual world.”)

1985 · 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), Ch. 8 Sec. 4, pp. 124–125; PDF 81

Same verse (Rev 8:10): the rivers are pastors in 1985; a disciple, the heart of an evangelist, in 2021.

What the Bible says

Rev 16:4-6 · Exod 7:20 · Ps 46:4 · Rev 22:1 · John 7:38-39

In Rev 16:4-6 the rivers and springs turn to blood, and the angel says this is just because “they poured out the blood of your saints and prophets” (16:6, NET), so the rivers are where the punishment falls, as in Exod 7:20. Elsewhere a river means blessing: the river that makes glad the city of God (Ps 46:4), the river of the water of life from God’s throne (Rev 22:1) or the Spirit (John 7:38-39). SCJ’s own books give different readings of this verse (see How SCJ’s account changed above).

Sea 바다 Rev 17:15

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative sea is “the world.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 52

What the Bible says

Rev 17:15 · Rev 10:6 · Rev 14:7 · Rev 20:13 · Rev 21:1

The Bible does use this picture, but only in Rev 17:15, where the angel explains, “The waters you saw (where the prostitute is seated) are peoples, multitudes, nations, and languages” (NET), and the word there is waters, not sea. Elsewhere in Revelation the sea is part of creation (Rev 10:6; 14:7), gives up its dead (20:13) and is gone in the new creation (21:1).

Fisherman 어부 Matt 4:19

SCJ’s current definition:

The figurative fish are “people,” the figurative net used to catch fish is “the word” that guides a person, and the fishermen who cast nets are “shepherds” or “evangelists” who preach the word.

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 54

What the Bible says

Matt 4:18-19 · Jer 16:16

Jesus says to Peter and Andrew, who were fishermen by trade, “Follow me, and I will turn you into fishers of people” (Matt 4:18-19, NET), a call to those two disciples. In Jer 16:16 God sends “many enemies who will catch these people like fishermen” for judgment (NET), so fishing for people isn’t one fixed role.

Net 그물 Matt 13:47-50 (likely)

SCJ’s current definition:

The figurative fish are “people,” the figurative net used to catch fish is “the word” that guides a person, and the fishermen who cast nets are “shepherds” or “evangelists” who preach the word.

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 54

What the Bible says

Matt 13:47-50 · Matt 13:47 · Matt 13:49

Jesus says “the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was cast into the sea that caught all kinds of fish” (Matt 13:47, NET), and the good are kept and the bad thrown away. He explains, “It will be this way at the end of the age. Angels will come and separate the evil from the righteous” (13:49, NET). The net gathers everyone, good and bad, and the sorting is done by angels at the end, so the text doesn’t present the net as a guide for believers only.

Fish 물고기 Hab 1:14; Matt 13:47

SCJ’s current definition:

The figurative fish are “people,” the figurative net used to catch fish is “the word” that guides a person, and the fishermen who cast nets are “shepherds” or “evangelists” who preach the word.

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 54

What the Bible says

Hab 1:14-15 · Matt 13:47-48 · John 21:11

Hab 1:14-15 compares mankind to helpless fish that an invader hauls in with hook and net, so there the fish are the victims of conquest, not believers. In Matt 13:47-48 the net holds both good and bad fish, and in John 21:11 the disciples catch 153 real fish, so fish don’t consistently mean believers.

Ship 배 Rev 8:8-9

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative ship is “a church,” as a ship that floats on the sea is figuratively used to refer to a church amid the world.

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 56

What the Bible says

Rev 8:8-9 · Rev 18:17-19 · Ps 107:23-30

Under the second trumpet a third of the sea creatures die and a third of the ships are destroyed (Rev 8:8-9). In Rev 18:17-19 shipmasters and sailors mourn Babylon because her wealth made them rich, and Ps 107:23-30 describes sailors at sea. Ships in these passages are seafaring and trade, and no passage calls a ship the church.

Beast 짐승 Rev 13:1-8; Dan 7:17

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative beast in instructional messages is “a person who does not know nor understand God and His word.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 58

What the Bible says

Dan 7:17 · Dan 7:23 · Rev 13:1-2 · Rev 13:7 · Rev 17:11-12

Daniel explains its beasts: “These large beasts, which are four in number, represent four kings who will arise from the earth” (Dan 7:17, NET), and the fourth beast is a fourth kingdom (7:23). Revelation’s beast from the sea combines Daniel’s leopard, bear and lion and receives authority over every tribe and nation (Rev 13:1-2, 7), and Rev 17:11-12 explains the beast as a king. The text presents a ruling power, not a pastor or a church group.

Head 머리 Rev 13:1; 17:9-10

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meanings of the figurative head, horn, and tail are “a leader (a shepherd),” “an authority figure (an elder),” and “a false prophet,” respectively.

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 62

What the Bible says

Rev 13:1 · Rev 17:9-10

The beast rises with ten horns and seven heads (Rev 13:1), and Rev 17:9-10 explains them itself: “The seven heads are seven mountains the woman sits on. They are also seven kings: five have fallen” (NET). By the text’s own explanation the heads are mountains and kings, not spirits or pastors. SCJ’s own books give different readings of this verse.

Horn 뿔 Rev 5:6; 17:12

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meanings of the figurative head, horn, and tail are “a leader (a shepherd),” “an authority figure (an elder),” and “a false prophet,” respectively.

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 62

What the Bible says

Ps 18:2 · Rev 17:12 · Dan 8:20-21 · Rev 5:6 · Exod 27:2

The Bible does use this picture, but only in passages that say so: God is “the horn that saves me” (Ps 18:2, NET), and Rev 17:12 and Dan 8:20-21 explain horns as kings. The Lamb’s seven horns aren’t explained, though his seven eyes are (Rev 5:6), and the horns of the altar are literal parts of the altar (Exod 27:2), so horns aren’t always people or organizations.

Tail 꼬리 Isa 9:14-16; Rev 12:4

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meanings of the figurative head, horn, and tail are “a leader (a shepherd),” “an authority figure (an elder),” and “a false prophet,” respectively.

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 62

What the Bible says

Isa 9:14-16 · Deut 28:13 · Deut 28:44 · Rev 9:10 · Rev 9:19 · Rev 12:4

The Bible does use this picture, but only in Isa 9:15, where “the prophets who teach lies are the tail” (NET), in an oracle against Israel’s leaders (9:14-16). Elsewhere head and tail mean top and bottom place (Deut 28:13, 44), the locusts’ and horses’ tails are their stinging weapons (Rev 9:10, 19), and the dragon’s tail sweeps down a third of the stars without being explained (Rev 12:4).

Flesh and blood of the lamb 어린양의 살과 피 John 6:51-63

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the Lamb’s flesh and blood is the word of Jesus, who is life.

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 64

What the Bible says

John 6:51 · John 6:47 · John 6:53-56 · John 6:63 · Matt 26:28 · Rev 12:11

Jesus says, “The bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh” (John 6:51, NET), and he ties eating to believing in him (6:47, 53-56). He adds, “The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life” (6:63, NET). At the Last Supper the cup is his blood “poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins” (Matt 26:28, NET), and Rev 12:11 names “the blood of the Lamb” and “the word of their testimony” as two separate things (NET), so his blood isn’t simply another name for a word.

New wine 새 포도주 Matt 9:17; 26:29

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative wine is “the word (doctrine).”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 66

What the Bible says

Matt 9:14-17 · Matt 26:28-29 · Acts 2:13

Jesus answers a question about fasting by saying that new wine is put into fresh wineskins (Matt 9:14-17). At the Last Supper he says the cup is his blood of the covenant and that he will next drink it “new with you in my Father’s kingdom” (Matt 26:28-29, NET), so the newness looks ahead to the kingdom. At Pentecost, mockers say of the apostles, “They are drunk on new wine” (Acts 2:13, NET), so new wine isn’t a fixed symbol.

New wineskin 새 부대 Matt 9:17 (likely)

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative wineskin is “a person who has the word (a person’s heart).” The new wineskins are the shepherds promised in the New Testament (the one who overcomes and the new priests of the Twelve Tribes) who testify to the revealed word of the New Testament’s fulfillment (Rv 10).

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, pp. 68–69

What the Bible says

Matt 9:14-17 · Matt 9:15 · Matt 9:17 · Mark 2:18-22 · Luke 5:33-39

Jesus speaks of wineskins when he is asked why his disciples don’t fast, and he answers that the wedding guests can’t mourn “while the bridegroom is with them” (Matt 9:15, NET). He adds that new wine goes into new wineskins “and both are preserved” (9:17, NET), a picture of the new thing he brings not fitting old forms (Mark 2:18-22; Luke 5:33-39). The passages say nothing about shepherds, an overcomer or priests of the twelve tribes.

Olive oil 감람유 Rev 6:6

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative olive oil is “the testimony of a witness.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 70

What the Bible says

Rev 6:6 · Rev 18:13 · Zech 4:11-14 · Ps 104:15

In the black-horse scene, a voice prices wheat and barley at famine rates and then says, “do not damage the olive oil and the wine!” (Rev 6:6, NET), so the oil is a commodity in the market picture, as it is in Babylon’s cargo (Rev 18:13). Where Scripture interprets olive imagery, Zechariah’s two olive trees are “the two anointed ones” (Zech 4:11-14, NET), and Ps 104:15 lists oil among God’s gifts that make the face shine.

Mountain 산 Rev 8:8; 17:9

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative mountain is a “church.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 72

What the Bible says

Rev 8:8 · Jer 51:25 · Rev 17:9-10 · Isa 2:2

Under the second trumpet “something like a great mountain of burning fire was thrown into the sea” (Rev 8:8, NET), and God calls Babylon a “destructive mountain” (Jer 51:25, NET). Rev 17:9-10 explains the seven mountains as the place where the woman sits and also as seven kings, while Isa 2:2 speaks of the mountain of the LORD’s house. Mountain means different things in different passages, and none of them defines it as a church.

Seal/mark 인 Rev 13:16-17; 7:2-4

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative seal and mark is “the word” and “a person with the word.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 74

What the Bible says

Rev 13:16-17 · Rev 14:9-11 · Rev 7:3 · Rev 14:1 · Ezek 9:4

In Rev 13:16-17 the mark on the right hand or forehead is the beast’s name or the number of its name, and without it no one can buy or sell. Rev 14:9-11 links receiving it to worshiping the beast, in contrast to God’s servants, who are sealed on their foreheads with the Lamb’s and his Father’s name (Rev 7:3; 14:1). Ezek 9:4 uses a mark on the forehead for those who grieve over sin, and the text never connects the mark to an ordination.

Trumpet 나팔 Rev 8:2, 6

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative trumpet is “a person.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 76

What the Bible says

Rev 8:2 · Rev 8:6-7 · Num 10:2-10 · 1 Cor 15:52

Seven angels are given seven trumpets (Rev 8:2), and each time an angel blows, a judgment follows (8:6-7). In Num 10:2-10 silver trumpets summon the people and sound the alarm, and the last trumpet announces the resurrection (1 Cor 15:52). The text names the trumpeters as angels and says nothing about seven people on earth.

Song/new song 새 노래 Rev 5:9; 14:3

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative song is “prophecy.” The true meaning of the figurative new song is “the gospel of the fulfillment of the prophecies (revealed word).”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 78

What the Bible says

Rev 5:9 · Rev 14:3 · Ps 40:3 · Ps 96:1

The new song of Rev 5:9 is praise to the Lamb: “You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals because you were killed” (NET). Only the 144,000 can learn the song of Rev 14:3. The Psalms use “a new song” for praise of God’s acts of salvation (Ps 40:3; 96:1), so it is worship, not a new doctrine.

Stone 돌 Rev 2:17

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative stone is “the word of judgment” and “a shepherd with authority to judge.”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 80

What the Bible says

Rev 2:17 · 1 Pet 2:4-5 · Exod 31:18

Christ promises that “to the one who conquers” he will give a white stone with a new name written on it, which only the one who receives it knows (Rev 2:17, NET). The stone is a gift given to the overcomer, and elsewhere stone pictures Christ and believers as “living stones” (1 Pet 2:4-5) or the tablets of the law (Exod 31:18). SCJ’s own books give different readings of this verse.

Idol 우상 Rev 13:14-15

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative idol is “a false teacher (shepherd).”

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 82

What the Bible says

Rev 13:14-15 · Dan 3:1-6 · Rev 14:9

In Rev 13:14-15 the second beast tells the earth’s inhabitants to make an image for the first beast and is allowed to give breath to that image, much like Nebuchadnezzar’s golden image in Dan 3:1-6. Rev 14:9 warns against worshiping the beast and its image, so the image is something made and set up, not one of the beast’s heads or the dragon’s tail. SCJ’s own books give three different readings of this verse.

Living creatures 생물 Rev 4:6-8; Ezek 1

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative living creatures and wind is “angels” and “judgment.” The four archangels who received the duty to judge by God’s command are figuratively compared to the four living creatures, and the angels are figuratively compared to the wind from the way they move.

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 84

What the Bible says

Rev 4:6-8 · Rev 5:8 · Ezek 1:5-10 · Ezek 10:20 · Isa 6:2-3

The four living creatures around the throne, like a lion, an ox, a man and an eagle, with six wings, never stop saying “Holy Holy Holy” (Rev 4:6-8, NET), and they fall down before the Lamb (5:8). They echo Ezekiel’s creatures, which Ezekiel identifies as cherubim (Ezek 1:5-10; 10:20), and Isaiah’s seraphim (Isa 6:2-3). The text places them in heaven at God’s throne, not in an earthly organization.

Wind 바람 Rev 7:1; Rev 9:14-15

SCJ’s current definition:

The true meaning of the figurative living creatures and wind is “angels” and “judgment.” The four archangels who received the duty to judge by God’s command are figuratively compared to the four living creatures, and the angels are figuratively compared to the wind from the way they move.

2021 · The Explanation of Parables, p. 84

What the Bible says

Rev 7:1 · Rev 9:14-15 · Zech 6:5 · John 3:8

In Rev 7:1 four angels hold back the four winds so that no wind blows, while in Rev 9:14-15 four angels bound at the Euphrates are released to kill a third of mankind. These are separate scenes, and neither calls angels winds. Zechariah explains the chariots as “the four spirits of heaven” (Zech 6:5, NET), and Jesus uses wind to describe the Spirit’s work (John 3:8), so wind isn’t one fixed symbol.

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Related terms

Persecution and the kingdom of victory

핍박

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

The book says “People who persecute lack the holy spirit and God’s grace.” The lesson defines persecution broadly: “to sow doubt, to push someone off the course they’re heading in,” and says it “might be subtle, such as questions about your study time, concerns about your choices” (Lesson 90). A family member’s worried question is thereby classed as persecution from the devil.

In SCJ’s words

People who persecute lack the holy spirit and God’s grace.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 275

What the Bible says

1 John 5:4-5

John says the victory is already given: “the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God” has conquered the world. Being questioned is not proof of being right, and the victory does not belong to an organization.

because everyone who has been fathered by God conquers the world. This is the conquering power that has conquered the world: our faith. Now who is the person who has conquered the world except the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?

1 John 5:4-5, NET

Lessons (29)

Related terms

Physical Eternal Life

육체영생

SCJ’s own accountCritics’ claimSources differ

SCJ’s early books teach that the sealed would ‘leap over the wall of death’ and live forever in the body. Critics and news reports document deaths of members and a later reinterpretation of ‘eternal life’ as long life. The term 육체영생 itself does not appear in the 1985 book.

See also: why Lee Man-hee’s claimed immortality matters to Shincheonji.

In SCJ’s words

마침내 이들은 바울이 말한 바와 같이 홀연히 변화 받아 사망의 벽을 뛰어넘어 영생의 반열에 오른 사람들이다. (“At last, as Paul said, these are people who are suddenly changed, leap over the wall of death and rise to the ranks of eternal life.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, pp. 300–302 (Ch. 20 Sec. 2, label on same PDF page; PDF p. 203; Amennews cites pp. 300–301)

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Related terms

Place where God (or Satan) is working

SCJ’s own account

The book says those who can discern “the place where God dwells” should know the truth. The lesson turns it into a choice: “do I seek the place where God is working, or the place where Satan is working?” (Lesson 65). Framing faith as a question of location puts the student’s current church on Satan’s side.

In SCJ’s words

Anyone who is able to discern the place where God dwells using the Bible should know the truth.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 370

What the Bible says

John 4:21-24

Jesus ended the question of the right place: “a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem,” because true worshipers worship “in spirit and truth.”

Jesus said to her, “Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You people worship what you do not know. We worship what we know because salvation is from the Jews. But a time is coming—and now is here—when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such people to be his worshipers. God is spirit, and the people who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”

John 4:21-24, NET

Lessons (2)

Related terms

Promised Pastor

약속의 목자

VerifiedSCJ’s own account

SCJ teaches that Lee Man-hee is the pastor Jesus promised to send (citing John 14–16 and Revelation 22:16), and that believers must find him to receive heaven and eternal life. Mainstream churches reject this claim; that SCJ uses the title for Lee is documented.

See also: the “salvation” chapter; why Lee Man-hee’s claimed immortality matters to Shincheonji.

In SCJ’s words

At the end of the age, believers must find the promised pastor, the one who overcomes, in order to attain eternal life and enter the kingdom of heaven.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 81

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Prophecy and fulfillment

예언과 성취

SCJ’s own account

SCJ’s book says it testifies to “the prophecies and their fulfillment” by answering six questions. In class this becomes the rule for judging any church: “Prophecy and fulfillment is how you can distinguish God’s work” (Lesson 5). A church that cannot name people, places and dates for Revelation is ruled out in advance.

In SCJ’s words

We at Shincheonji, with the holy spirit and through the word of revelation, are testifying about the prophecies and their fulfillment by answering the questions who, what, when, where, why, and how.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 329

Believing in the prophecies without believing in their physical fulfillment is like believing in a blueprint without believing in the building that is built according to it.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 146

What the Bible says

Luke 24:44 · Revelation 19:10

Jesus said what must be fulfilled is everything written “about me.” Revelation says “the testimony about Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.” Prophecy is fulfilled in Christ, not in the organizational history of a Korean church.

Then he said to them, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the law of Moses and the prophets and the psalms must be fulfilled.”

Luke 24:44, NET

So I threw myself down at his feet to worship him, but he said, “Do not do this! I am only a fellow servant with you and your brothers and sisters who hold to the testimony about Jesus. Worship God, for the testimony about Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.”

Revelation 19:10, NET

Lessons (32)

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Remnant

남은 자

SCJ’s own account

The book calls those who come out of the fallen church “the remnant seed God uses to create the twelve tribes.” The lessons draw the pattern: “God needs someone he will use to build something new from the remnant of the old” (Lesson 63). The student is invited to see themselves as one of the few.

In SCJ’s words

They are the remnant seed God uses to create the twelve tribes of New Spiritual Israel.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 158

What the Bible says

Romans 11:5

Paul defines the remnant: “a remnant chosen by grace.” It is chosen by grace, not by surviving a course.

So in the same way at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace.

Romans 11:5, NET

Lessons (5)

Related terms

Revelation

계시

SCJ’s own account

SCJ teaches that its interpretation is ‘revelation’ given to Lee, and that it is the only way to salvation and eternal life.

In SCJ’s words

요한이 보았던 환상적 계시는 종말에 나타날 실상임을 부인할 사람은 없을 줄 안다. (“I believe no one will deny that the visionary revelation John saw is the reality that will appear at the end.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, after pp. 19–23 (Ch. 1 Sec. 1; PDF p. 10)

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Satan’s tactics

SCJ’s own account

Lesson 58 lists Satan’s tactics as contempt for prophecy, “peace and safety,” worldly distraction, miracles and teachers who make us “believe that we have the truth before the truth has been fulfilled.” Other lessons name ordinary obstacles as Satan’s work: “your car breaks down when you need to get home to attend this seminar” (Lesson 27). Anything that keeps a student from class can be read as an attack.

In SCJ’s words

your car breaks down when you need to get home to attend this seminar. Or your son calls needing help just when you planned to leave.

SCJ class notes · Lesson 27

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 27, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (5)

Related terms

Sealed

인 맞음

SCJ’s own account

SCJ teaches that being ‘sealed’ (Revelation 7) means having the revealed word engraved in the mind, which it links to membership of the 144,000.

In SCJ’s words

예수께서 그의 말씀을 지켜야만 구원에 이를 수 있음을 여러모양으로 일러 주시고, 그의 증거를 받아들이는 행위는 곧 하나님으로부터 인 맞는 역사임을 강조하신다. (“Jesus told us in many ways that one can reach salvation only by keeping his word, and he stresses that accepting his testimony is the work of being sealed by God.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, after pp. 19–23 (Ch. 1 Sec. 1; PDF p. 10)

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Seven bowls of wrath

일곱 대접

SCJ’s own account

The book says a bowl of wrath is “a figurative description of a person’s heart” and that the seven bowls are “seven people” from SCJ’s temple. The book adds that they are like Paul and Jeremiah, “chosen to be used as his bowls,” so God’s judgment is delivered through SCJ’s own members.

In SCJ’s words

A bowl holding God’s word of wrath is a figurative description of a person’s heart. Moreover, the seven golden bowls in Rv 15 represent seven people from the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony who are given a specific mission.

2015 · The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation

Source: The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation (English 1st ed., 2015), pp. 364–365 (PDF p. 187, a two-page spread; column order makes the exact page uncertain)

What the Bible says

Revelation 15:7

The bowls are “filled with the wrath of God who lives forever and ever,” given by one of the four living creatures to seven angels. The text says angels, not members of a church.

Then one of the four living creatures gave the seven angels seven golden bowls filled with the wrath of God who lives forever and ever,

Revelation 15:7, NET

Lessons (7)

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Seven churches

일곱 교회

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

The book says the letters “are given to the seven messengers of the tabernacle of the covenant, which is symbolized by the seven churches of Asia Minor.” The notes say the “seven churches actually represent seven individuals within one church” (BVC Lessons 102, 104). This moves Revelation 2–3 out of the first century into SCJ’s story.

In SCJ’s words

When Revelation is fulfilled, those letters are given to the seven messengers of the tabernacle of the covenant, which is symbolized by the seven churches of Asia Minor.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 189

What the Bible says

Revelation 1:11 · Revelation 2:7

Jesus addressed real churches in named cities, from Ephesus to Laodicea, and each letter ends, “hear what the Spirit says to the churches,” plural, to every reader.

saying: “Write in a book what you see and send it to the seven churches—to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea.”

Revelation 1:11, NET

The one who has an ear had better hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who conquers, I will permit him to eat from the tree of life that is in the paradise of God.’

Revelation 2:7, NET

Lessons (20)

Related terms

Seven Messengers

일곱 사자

VerifiedSCJ’s own account

The Tabernacle Temple had seven leaders who called themselves the ‘seven stars/angels’ of Revelation. SCJ teaches that they were the seven messengers who betrayed God.

See also: the “betrayal” chapter.

In SCJ’s words

이 일곱 촛대는 일곱 교회를 뜻하며 또한 일곱 별은 그 교회들을 이끌어 가는 종들로서 일곱 사자들이다. (“These seven lampstands mean the seven churches, and the seven stars are the servants who lead those churches, the seven messengers.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, after pp. 19–23 (Ch. 1 Sec. 1; PDF p. 10)

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Shoes of John

SCJ’s own account

Jesus “will appoint one who will do this work, living through the shoes of John” (Lesson 66). The phrase prepares students for SCJ’s New John before he is named.

In SCJ’s words

will appoint one who will do this work, living through the shoes of John

SCJ class notes · Lesson 66

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 66, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (1)

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Small groups / one-on-ones

SCJ’s own account

The lecture “is actually a small part of the course,” and “Those who don’t attend meetings end up struggling quite a bit” (Lesson 52). Students are told, “Come to one-on-ones. Come to small group” (Lesson 70), and urged to meet their evangelists because “Satan is desperate to stop you” (Lesson 80). The meetings add hours of contact on top of class.

In SCJ’s words

Those who don’t attend meetings end up struggling quite a bit.

SCJ class notes · Lesson 52

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 52, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (5)

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Spiritual battery

SCJ’s own account

Students are told to “make the determination to never stop hearing the word,” otherwise “eventually your spiritual battery will drain and faith will diminish” (Lesson 12). The image makes regular attendance the student’s power source, and missing class a cause of spiritual decline.

In SCJ’s words

eventually your spiritual battery will drain and faith will diminish.

SCJ class notes · Lesson 12

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 12, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (1)

Spiritual Marriage

영적 결혼

SCJ’s own account

SCJ teaches a ‘marriage’ in which the 144,000 martyrs’ spirits (bridegrooms) unite with 144,000 living members (brides), and that this union makes them immortal. It is a doctrinal term, not a literal wedding. The 1985 book words it as 성령과의 혼인 (marriage with the Holy Spirit).

See also: why Lee Man-hee’s claimed immortality matters to Shincheonji.

In SCJ’s words

이 십사만 사천은 인 침이 이루어지면 반드시 성령과의 혼인이 이루어진다. (“For these 144,000, once the sealing is done, marriage with the Holy Spirit is sure to take place.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, after pp. 213–217 (Ch. 14 Sec. 1; PDF p. 141)

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Spiritual war / battleground / heaven’s army

SCJ’s own account

The book says the end-time war between God and Satan is won in two phases, with God’s people as the final victors. The lessons apply this to the student’s own church: “The battleground is and has always been the church” (Lesson 5), and “Non-believers aren’t even part of this equation” (Lesson 6). Casting one’s pastor and church as the war zone makes leaving them feel like obedience, and the stakes are raised with “we risk becoming casualties in this spiritual war” (Lesson 4).

In SCJ’s words

According to Revelation, the war between God and Satan at the end of the age is completed in two phases with God and his people as the final victors (Rv 13, 12).

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 433

What the Bible says

Colossians 2:15 · 1 John 3:8

The decisive battle is already won. Christ disarmed the rulers and authorities, “triumphing over them by the cross,” and “the Son of God was revealed: to destroy the works of the devil.” Believers are not recruited into a war over which church is right.

Disarming the rulers and authorities, he has made a public disgrace of them, triumphing over them by the cross.

Colossians 2:15, NET

The one who practices sin is of the devil because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was revealed: to destroy the works of the devil.

1 John 3:8, NET

Lessons (6)

Related terms

Subjects of the kingdom

SCJ’s own account

The book lists “the subjects of the kingdom” with the sun, moon and stars as people of the tabernacle that are “all cast out of heaven.” Lesson 74 sets them against “those who sit in heaven.” The point for students is that being an insider once is no protection.

In SCJ’s words

At that time, the people of the tabernacle that prepares the way (i.e., the sun, moon, and stars of Rv 6, Judah and Jerusalem, and the subjects of the kingdom) are all cast out of heaven.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 347

What the Bible says

Matthew 8:10-12

Jesus said this while marveling at a Roman officer’s faith in him: outsiders with faith come in, and “the sons of the kingdom” who reject him are thrown out. The dividing line is faith in Jesus, not membership in a Korean tabernacle.

When Jesus heard this he was amazed and said to those who followed him, “I tell you the truth, I have not found such faith in anyone in Israel! I tell you, many will come from the east and west to share the banquet with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven, but the sons of the kingdom will be thrown out into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”

Matthew 8:10-12, NET

Lessons (2)

Related terms

Tabernacle Temple

장막성전

Verified

A historical group founded in 1966 by Yoo Jae-yeol at Makgye-ri, Gwacheon. Lee Man-hee joined around 1967. It was reorganized in 1980, and the site is now Seoul Grand Park. SCJ treats it as the ‘first tabernacle’ of Revelation.

See also: the “betrayal” chapter; Shincheonji’s fulfillment teaching vs the record.

In SCJ’s words

이리하여 언약으로 펼친 장막성전이 창립 14년이 되는 1980년 교권과 교단을 송두리째 이방의 교단으로 넘겨주는 사태가 발생하게 된다. (“Thus in 1980, the 14th year since its founding, the Tabernacle Temple, spread out by covenant, came to hand over its church authority and denomination entirely to a gentile denomination.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, pp. 361–364 (Summary section; PDF p. 252)

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Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony

증거장막성전

VerifiedSCJ’s own account

The second half of SCJ’s full name. SCJ teaches that it is the temple promised in Revelation 15:5, ‘testifying’ to what happened at the Tabernacle Temple. SCJ dates its founding to 14 March 1984, a date it fixed after the fact.

See also: the “salvation” chapter.

In SCJ’s words

그러므로 이 증거 장막의 성전은 어떤 교단에도 속하지 아니한 교회이다. (“Therefore this Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony is a church that belongs to no denomination.”)

1985 · The Reality of Revelation

Source: 계시록의 진상 (The Reality of Revelation), 1985, after pp. 232–234 (Ch. 15 Sec. 3; PDF p. 156)

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The dragon

용

SCJ’s own account

The book says “This dragon is Satan,” with the heads and horns as the destroyers. The lesson adds that “Revelation 13 happens before Revelation 12 in the chronological reality” (Lesson 118) to fit the story.

In SCJ’s words

This dragon is Satan and the seven heads and ten horns that belong to the dragon are the invaders and destroyers of the tabernacle in Rv 13.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 212

What the Bible says

Revelation 12:9

Revelation names the dragon outright: “the ancient serpent, the one called the devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world.” It does not identify it with a Korean group.

So that huge dragon—the ancient serpent, the one called the devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world—was thrown down to the earth, and his angels along with him.

Revelation 12:9, NET

Lessons (24)

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The throne and the 24 elders

이십사 장로

SCJ’s own account

The book says the elders are “twenty-four spirits in charge of all the work in God’s kingdom.” The lesson lists SCJ’s matching structure, “24 ministries, 7 inspectors, 4 departments,” and concludes, “If any of these elements is missing from a place, it cannot be considered Mount Zion” (Lesson 105).

In SCJ’s words

The twenty-four elders seated on twenty-four thrones encircling God’s throne (Rv 4:4) are twenty-four spirits in charge of all the work in God’s kingdom.

2015 · The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation

Source: The Physical Fulfillment of Revelation (English 1st ed., 2015), p. 99 (PDF p. 54)

What the Bible says

Revelation 4:10-11 · Hebrews 8:1-2

In Revelation 4 the elders throw down their crowns and worship the one on the throne. Hebrews says the true tabernacle was set up “by the Lord, not man,” and our high priest sits in heaven. No earthly organization reproduces it.

the twenty-four elders throw themselves to the ground before the one who sits on the throne and worship the one who lives forever and ever, and they offer their crowns before his throne, saying: “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, since you created all things, and because of your will they existed and were created!”

Revelation 4:10-11, NET

Now the main point of what we are saying is this: We have such a high priest, one who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, a minister in the sanctuary and the true tabernacle that the Lord, not man, set up.

Hebrews 8:1-2, NET

Lessons (4)

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Three-plus days a week

SCJ’s own account

The class meets “three times a week, two hours each time” (Lesson 56). Students are told the dedication should extend beyond class nights, “ideally encompassing every day of the week” (Lesson 32). With meetings and homework added, the course fills most evenings.

In SCJ’s words

three times a week, two hours each time

SCJ class notes · Lesson 56

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 56, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (2)

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Twelve Tribes

12지파

VerifiedSCJ’s own account

SCJ is organized into 12 ‘tribes’ named after apostles (John, Peter, Busan James, Andrew, Thaddeus, Philip, Simon, Bartholomew, Matthew, Matthias, Seoul James, Thomas). SCJ teaches that they are the spiritual Israel of Revelation 7 and 21. The structure is documented; the spiritual claim is SCJ’s.

In SCJ’s words

These are the people who become the 144,000 people of the twelve tribes of the nation of New Spiritual Israel. They are God’s kingdom and priests who will reign forever.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 551

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Two seeds

SCJ’s own accountSources differ

The book reads Jeremiah 31:27 and Matthew 13 as two seeds that grow into two kinds of trees. The lessons say “the devil comes and sows the weed of animals or the weed of beasts” (Lesson 67), and the book’s parable table makes the field “the church of Jesus” (BVC Lesson 15). Every church teaching outside SCJ can then be cast as the enemy’s seed.

In SCJ’s words

The two kinds of seed that were sown each grow to become trees that bear fruit.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 301

What the Bible says

Matthew 13:37-39

Jesus explained his own parable: “The field is the world,” not the church. Re-labeling the field as the church is exactly what lets SCJ call other churches the enemy’s seed.

He answered, “The one who sowed the good seed is the Son of Man. The field is the world and the good seed are the people of the kingdom. The poisonous weeds are the people of the evil one, and the enemy who sows them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels.

Matthew 13:37-39, NET

Lessons (5)

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Weak mindset

SCJ’s own account

Before a written test, the board’s Yeast of Heaven line calls students to fight as the martyrs did: “We must not have weak mindset” (Lesson 62). Hesitation is framed as weakness, not as a reasonable question.

In SCJ’s words

We must not have weak mindset.

SCJ class notes · Lesson 62

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 62, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (1)

Word of testimony

증거의 말씀

SCJ’s own account

The book says the word of testimony “comes only from Mt. Zion,” meaning SCJ. In class it is cast as the weapon in Revelation 12:11 (“the blood of the lamb plus the word of testimony”) and as “a testimony that ends arguments” (Lesson 55). Calling it the end of argument discourages a student from weighing objections.

In SCJ’s words

Again, the word of testimony that proclaims the New Testament prophecies and their physical fulfillment comes only from Mt. Zion.

2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth

Source: 2014 · The Creation of Heaven and Earth (English 2nd ed.), p. 224

What the Bible says

Revelation 12:11 · 1 John 5:11

John tells us what “the testimony” is: “God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.” The saints overcome by the Lamb’s blood and their testimony about him. That is not one group’s claims about who fulfilled Revelation.

But they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives so much that they were afraid to die.

Revelation 12:11, NET

And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.

1 John 5:11, NET

Lessons (19)

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“Yeast of Heaven”

SCJ’s own account

Board notes carry a “Yeast of Heaven” line, such as “What was planted before must be pulled out and the new must be planted” (Lesson 43) and “We must not have weak mindset” (Lesson 62). The first asks students to uproot what they learned before. The term itself is not explained in the notes, so its intended meaning is unclear.

In SCJ’s words

What was planted before must be pulled out and the new must be planted.

SCJ class notes · Lesson 43

Source: SCJ class notes, Lesson 43, as quoted on the BVC lesson page (lesson source, not a book)

Lessons (4)

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How to read the tags

Verified
Confirmed by an independent source, such as a newspaper, court ruling or official record
SCJ’s own account
What Shincheonji says or teaches, in its own words. It is shown as its account, not as checked fact.
Critics’ claim
Comes from critics or former members. We have not found independent confirmation, so we show it as their claim.
Former leaders’ estimate
A figure estimated by former Shincheonji leaders. It is their estimate, not an official or independent count.
Sources differ
Reliable sources give different dates. We show both, and the note says which source gives which.

Each tag has an icon and a word, so it does not rely on color.

Shincheonji terms: common questions

What does “harvesting” mean in Shincheonji?

Shincheonji frames recruitment as the “harvest” of Matthew 13. Critics and former members describe “harvesters” as SCJ members who attend other churches without disclosing that they are SCJ members, in order to recruit. Recruits are called “fruit”. See Harvester, Fruit and Mountain Moving.

Who is the “promised pastor” in Shincheonji?

Shincheonji teaches that its founder Lee Man-hee is the pastor Jesus promised to send (citing John 14–16 and Revelation 22:16), and that believers must find him to receive heaven and eternal life. Its teaching course also calls him “New John” and “the one who overcomes”. Mainstream churches reject this claim. See Promised Pastor, New John and Overcomer.

What is a “leaf” in a Shincheonji Bible study?

Critics and former members say “leaves” are SCJ members who sit in Center classes posing as fellow students in order to encourage recruits. The Center is SCJ’s Bible course, which takes 6 to 12 months, run by the Zion Christian Mission Center, and it is usually preceded by a small “gospel room” study. See Leaf, Center and Gospel Room.

What does the name “Shincheonji” mean?

“Shincheonji” (신천지) means “new heaven and new earth”, from Revelation 21:1. The second half of its full name, “Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony”, refers to the temple Shincheonji says was promised in Revelation 15:5. See New Heaven and New Earth and Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony.