Trinity: A Reformed Charismatic Church in Chicago

Chicago is home to many churches, each with unique style, values, and emphasis. At Trinity, we cherish the rich heritage of Reformed theology as well as the vibrant life of the Charismatic movement — carefully steering clear of unbiblical practices on either side. In our ministry, as in the Bible, these two streams flow together.

God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth. – John 4:24

If you are looking for a reformed charismatic church in Chicago, you’ve found your people.

Being a Reformed Church

Just as there are many types of Protestants—those who broke away from the Catholic Church—there are also various Reformed traditions within Protestantism. Key figures such as Martin Luther, John Calvin, and Ulrich Zwingli made vital contributions to shaping these movements. Being Reformed is not about a new form of Christianity or venerating certain individuals, but a return to Biblical orthodoxy.

At its core, being Reformed means we have a high view of Scripture; God’s Word is authoritative, trustworthy, and sufficient (2 Timothy 3:16). We emphasise God’s sovereignty over all things, and human beings’ complete dependence on God for salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9). The forgiveness of sins is a free gift of grace, irresistible in nature, and eternally indestructible (Ephesians 1:7, John 6:37,44).

Baptism & Communion

At Trinity Church, we are Reformed in regards to salvation, yet baptistic in our convictions; as the Bible shows, and early church history confirms, water baptism is not for infants (Acts 2:41). Water baptism is to be administered to those who profess faith in Jesus (Acts 2:38). It is an image of our death, burial, and resurrection in Christ, while also being a profound moment of spiritual blessing and experience (Romans 6:3-4, Colossians 2:12). 

It is similar to communion: we cannot receive saving grace through bread and wine (Ephesians 2:8-9, John 3:16, Romans 10:9-10). However, we should regularly receive the Lord’s Supper in order to step into God’s presence at His dinner table. Receiving communion is an important weekly practice at Trinity for all believers—remembering what Jesus has done and unifying us together (1 Corinthians 11:23-26).

The church has only two sacraments—baptism and communion. If they are vital, why is infant baptism only inferred rather than commanded or clearly shown? The Bible does not offer it to us as an equivalent to circumcision. It is absent and unprovable in the early church. To treat baptism or communion as covenantal works of saving grace only serves to confuse us, undermining the gospel’s unique beauty and power.

I do not nullify the grace of God, for if righteousness were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose. – Galatians 2:21

Being a Charismatic Church

There is a wide approach to the supernatural amongst spirit-filled churches. Key figures such as William Seymour, David Yonggi Cho, and Jack Hayford all made important contributions across various movements. Being Charismatic is not about following a fad or a person, but a return to the oldest traditions of our faith—the honest pursuit of God as described in His Word (Acts 2:17-18).

At its core, being Charismatic means we believe in receiving power from the Holy Spirit for supernatural ministry; we believe and seek the continuation of all the gifts (Luke 24:49, Acts 1:8, 1 Corinthians 12:4-11). We encourage believers to hunger for personal experiences of the Holy Spirit, to listen for the Spirit’s voice, the Spirit’s prompting, and of course, to do all of this in love (Luke 11:13, Acts 13:52, 1 Corinthians 13:1-2).

Practicing Spiritual Gifts

We welcome words of wisdom and knowledge (1 Corinthians 12:8). We pray in faith for physical healing, as well as anoint the sick with oil (Mark 6:13). We believe in the gift of languages; these are prayers, praise, declarations, and thanksgivings towards God (Acts 2:11,1 Corinthians 14:2;14:14-15). If a tongue is shared publicly (not super common, but welcomed), it would first be explained (1 Corinthians 14:40), and an interpretation sought (1 Corinthians 14:13). Prophecy is particularly encouraged (1 Corinthians 14:5).

The congregational gift of prophecy must never add to or distort Scripture (Proverbs 30:5-6). It is not concerned with predicting end time events (Matthew 24:36). It is not a weapon to clobber people over the head, but instead “…the one who prophesies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation” (1 Corinthians 14:3). The proper use of spiritual gifts is a radical and transformative blessing for believers (1 Corinthians 12:7).

Jesus said it was better for Him to leave so that the Holy Spirit could come (John 16:7). Peter preached that we would prophesy under the Spirit’s power (Acts 2:17-18). If the gifts were supposed to “cease” already, why is that only inferred through the most tenuous interpretations (1 Corinthians 13:8-12), and in contrast, directly encouraged (1 Corinthians 14:39)? 

Being Both Reformed & Charismatic

At Trinity Church, we believe the Christian life should be deeply rooted and vibrantly alive. As a Reformed Charismatic church in Chicago, we hold to the unchanging truth of God’s Living Word, while joyfully embracing the person and ministry of the Holy Spirit. 

We aim to be a community where biblical teaching shapes everything we do and the Spirit equips us for ministry. To love God is to love His Word and to love His Presence. We are grounded in Scripture; empowered by the Spirit.

Common Misconceptions

It’s common to assume that embracing spiritual gifts means watering down doctrine. However, these ideas are not mutually exclusive; Paul wrote Romans and raised the dead. The end time beliefs of many cessationists are full of all kinds of fabulous things. The reason this false dichotomy exists is due to the unseen influence of materialistic-rationalism. It’s tempting to explain away everything through “mechanisms”, ignoring “metaphysical” influences. Strangely, many are quick to label something demonic, but hesitant to embrace the work of angels—who show up time and again throughout Scripture and church history.

Another common error is to assume that Charismatics have all the excesses and “funky” stuff, but Reformed churches are only sound, solid, and safe. It is true, there are a lot of wonky things in the spirit-filled world. We must call out tours of heaven, the prosperity gospel, predicting Jesus’ return, and angel feathers. A theology of pain and suffering is also often missing. These issues feel obvious from the outside. But let us not miss that human beings are…well…human beings; in any group of people there will be “funky” stuff. God is gracious and patient to use all kinds of fallen people, if He wasn’t, there would be no churches.

The excesses of Reformed churches are not flashy, or covered in gold dust, but they are just as real. It’s possible to have robust theology, but miss the heart of it. It’s possible to articulate the technicalities of the gospel, but still leave people with a “try harder” works-based faith. Clear doctrine is not automatically free from a dogmatic spirit. We must call out heavy-handed ministries that elevate traditions or catechisms alongside Scripture. We must call out a lack of faith, the devaluing of prayer, intellectual haughtiness, or neglecting the poor and needy. There can be many failings within Reformed traditions, afterall, those traditions are full of humans.

Our Worship and Sunday Gatherings

At Trinity we love vintage worship—leaning on classic hymns that have inspired Christians throughout the centuries. We also love contemporary songs—leaning on those gifted and called by God to inspire worship in our day. Our approach is to use songs that are theologically rich and experientially profound; declaring truth and unapologetically engaging emotions.

Our service is thoughtfully structured to hold the Word up high and then allow our worship to follow from that place. Our meeting typically starts with one worship song (sometimes two mashed together). This helps us “Enter his gates with thanksgiving…” (Psalm 100:4). We transition into a couple of core announcements, and then go straight into the sermon. God’s Word is read, expounded, declared. We then receive communion as a response to the Word, invite people for prayer, and sing a number of worship songs.

During this time of sung worship, we make space for people to use spiritual gifts. If someone wants to participate, leaders will assess their contribution for 1) being biblically sound, 2) being from a trusted person, 3) being for the moment. These safeguards allow us to enjoy the spontaneous activity of the Holy Spirit, but in an orderly way. Leaders oversee, organize, and bring explanation to these moments. It is not a free-for-all, nor without limits, but supernaturally glorifying to God.

Reformed & Charismatic Community

We take intentional steps at a community level to foster both sides of this issue. Our spiritual gifts Small Group is a systematic Bible study, providing a robust theological framework, and an opportunity to experience the Holy Spirit’s work. Our Revival Prayer Small Group, and other Prayer Gatherings, are environments where our church can appropriately seek God’s presence.

We insist that our Small Group leaders focus on a Bible study at least every other semester, rather than just a book study or Christian resource. We want to avoid drifting away from God’s Word, and our rhythms help to continually reinforce a solid foundation.

When sharing Scriptures, personal words, or prophesies, we encourage accountability and humility. No one should be “cornered” with “a word from God”. But instead, others should be included to help assess, clarify, and pray into what has been received. A community that is personally assured of God’s love and guidance through the Spirit’s prompting, is a rich and joyful place.

Visit Trinity: Plan Your First Sunday 

It can be intimidating to visit a church for the first time, especially if you don’t know anyone, but please don’t let that stop you. We strive to be a hospitable and welcoming church. We have a grounded and joyful community waiting for you. 

If you have a Reformed and Charismatic view of Christianity, Trinity would be an important place to visit. Plus, we would love to meet you. Go ahead, pick a Sunday, and show up.

Trinity Church Chicago meets on Sundays, 10am, at 1244 W Thorndale Ave, Chicago, IL 60660.