CHURCH HISTORY
The birth of the Lord of the Nations Church is a fulfillment of God's will, brought about through the obedience and unwavering commitment of its founder and head pastor, Romeo B. Abellar.
From a modest 15-square-meter office on Instruccion Street, Sampaloc, Manila, with only a few devoted church members and workers, LOTN expanded quickly. Many came from different parts of the Philippines, along with some from abroad, to participate in this newly founded ministry of the Lord. The church began holding services at Shangri-La Plaza on September 9, 2001, and continued there for three months. As the church's membership increased, it became clear that a permanent location was needed. Consequently, the church relocated to Guadalupe, Makati City, in March 2002. LOTN expanded to 27 congregations in its first year, and we attribute this rapid growth to the grace of God at work in the ministry. He used many people, but the true reason behind it all is God Himself.
After 16 years, the Lord appointed a new leader in the person of Pastor Allan S. Gamiao. The church continued to grow, reaching out to various regions of the Philippines and beyond. LOTN never wavered in her commitment to share the Good News wherever there was an open door. However, as LOTN matured, it became evident that the church needed support to fulfill its divine calling
Although pastors and leaders had been raised over the years, their number was insufficient to meet the increasing demand in areas where new churches were started but not sustained due to a lack of essential personnel. Upon careful observation, the leadership discovered that this deficiency was primarily due to a lack of effective training and equipping programs. Thus, after much prayer, research, and numerous consultations, the Spirit of the Lord inspired the church leadership to develop programs that would meet the needs of this expanding and maturing church. These programs include Mentoring, Online Ministry Development, Project Epaphras, Eldership, Discipleship, and above all the Ministry Enhancement Program.
We have also conducted seminars for various groups established over the years, such as the Worship Symposium, Youth Seminars, Singles’ Assembly, and the most recent addition, Young at Heart. These groups are composed of different age brackets, each with its own unique needs. Since the implementation of these programs, which have been well-attended by members and workers alike, there has been a consistent and noticeable increase in the number of gospel preachers. Without a doubt, these initiatives have helped LOTN recognize and understand that the Holy Spirit has bestowed spiritual gifts upon them and that these gifts signify each believer’s life mission, which they are called to fulfill. While we have not yet reached the ultimate goal, we are grateful that we are no longer where we once were.
A Bible school is also in the planning stage, aimed at continuing the education and preparation of believers for their God-given calling and purpose. Although the road ahead is long and the task undoubtedly challenging, the Lord’s promises not only strengthen our confidence that we will accomplish this for His glory but also kindle within us a deep sense of anticipation for what lies ahead for the Lord of the Nations Ministry.
Revelation 4:11 says, “You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased” (NLT).
MISSION
To Make Disciples of all Nations
"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all the things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19–20, NKJV)
The ongoing task of making disciples and sharing the gospel with the world is a mandate for every local church that is part of the Body of Christ. These are the essential elements of the Great Commission that never change. Spreading the Word at any cost is our aim—on any accessible platform, whether in person or online, through sermons, Bible studies, or acts of compassion. As long as we fulfill our responsibilities as one of the local churches privileged to partake in the end-time harvest of souls for the Lord Jesus Christ, we are on the right path.
Discipleship, on the other hand, is our ultimate goal. We are not just spreading the Word, but for those who respond to it, we—through the unction and wisdom of the Holy Spirit—will do our best to become vessels that patiently help them become followers of Christ
VISION
A Worshipping, Praying, God-Seeking, Soul-Winning Church is not just a statement that clearly reflects our core values, but more importantly, it emphasizes why we do what we do. These are our utmost duties to Almighty God—our calling and pursuit as a church.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
1. TO GLORIFY GOD
- This is our highest guiding principle as a church: that LOTN was born in the heart of God to give glory and honor to Him. In everything and anything that we do, we always remind ourselves that we are here to give glory to God. As the Westminster Shorter Catechism vividly states, "What is the chief end of man? Man's chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy Him forever."
Isaiah 43:7 Even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.
Psalm 115:1 Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy, and for thy truth's sake.
1 Corinthians 10:31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
1 Corinthians 6:20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
Psalm 86:12 I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore.
2. TO EVANGELIZE
- To spread the good news of God's kingdom—that Jesus died on the cross for our sins, was buried, rose from the dead on the third day, and ascended to the right hand of the Father. We proclaim that salvation is based solely on grace and can only be attained through faith in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:8-9)
- To live in such a way that the world comes to understand and experience the forgiveness and love we have received from our Lord Jesus Christ.
3. TO TRAIN AND EQUIP
- To teach that “all scripture is given by the inspiration of God”, and it is the only basis of our faith.
- To promote biblical principles among families and members.
- To make disciples, teach them the biblical foundations and leadership concepts.
- To educate members and leaders on conflict resolution. - To train gifted members for ministry and send them to the nations. (2 Timothy 3:16, Psalm 119:105)
4. TO MINISTER
Just as our Lord Jesus walked the earth for three and a half years, He went around preaching and ministering to people who were sick and in need of care. This was His mission on earth—to heal, deliver, and bless people (Matthew 9:35, Luke 4:18-19). He brought deliverance to those in bondage to sin and Satan. He welcomed those seeking love and forgiveness without prejudice. John 8:3-11 - The account of the woman caught in adultery illustrates Christ’s mercy and forgiveness, even toward sinners judged harshly by others.
Additionally, He resolved conflicts, restored broken relationships, and demonstrated—not just preached—love and forgiveness through the power of the Holy Spirit.
5. TO DO CHARITABLE DEEDS
- To be a blessing to the world through deeds that give honor and glory to God. Charitable deeds are practical means to show to the world that God loves them.
a. Medical and Dental Mission
b. Tribal Mission
c. Assistance to disaster-stricken areas
d. Pray over and counseling
e. Feeding Programs
6. TO UNITE WITH THE REST OF THE BODY OF CHRIST
- We believe that LOTN is a member of the universal Body of Christ and that God has mandated us to be united with other believers. That is why one of our guiding principles is to pray for—not attack—other churches. Only respect and love. We see them as brethren, not competition. While there may be differences in teaching and tradition, these are not reasons for division.
John 17:21 “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee...” Romans 12:5 “So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another
STATEMENT OF FAITH
The bible is God’s Word and is infallible for it comes directly from God. Holy men of God under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit wrote it. Thus, all of its fundamentals we uphold and make it as our all sufficient rule for faith and practice.
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2Timothy 3:16)
We believe that there is only one true and living God, who has made Himself known as the eternally existing, self-revealing “I AM” (YHWH in Hebrew, Exodus 3:14). He is the Omnipotent Creator who is compassionate, gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands and forgiving sin (Exodus 34:67).
We believe that there are three Persons in one God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Matthew 28:19, 2 Corinthians 13:14, 1 John 5:7, Genesis 1:1-2, Isaiah 9:6
We believe that each Person of the Trinity is distinct from each other.
- The Oneness and Distinctness of the Trinity The Bible reveals three persons, each distinct in His office from the others, and yet so perfectly one in character and harmony, that together they constitute or make up one Godhead and not three Gods.
- The Trinity in Action in the Baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3:16–17) The Father speaks from heaven The Son (Jesus) is in the water being baptized by John The Holy Spirit descends upon the Son in the form of a dove.
- The Biblical Testimony to the Trinity Jesus: Matthew 28:18–20 Paul: 2 Corinthians 13:14 Peter: 1 Peter 3:18
HIS DIVINITY.
- He is above all things (Colossians 1: 17)
- He existed together with God even before the beginning of all things (John 1:1)
- He created all things (John 1:3) He said, “Before Abraham was, I AM.” (John 8:58)
- He is God
I. Worship is attributed to God alone. The Lord Jesus accepted the worship of the following:
- Lepers (Matthew 8:2)
- Ruler (Matthew 9:18–19)
- Disciples (Matthew 14:31-33)
- Blind man (John 9:38)
- Angels (Hebrews 1:6)
Note: Not for one instance did Jesus stop the above-mentioned creation from worshipping Him as contrasted by the angel in Revelation 22:8-9.
II. The testimony of the disciples
- Peter (Matthew 16:13–17)
- Thomas (John 20:28)
- Paul (Titus 2:13)
III. The testimony of Jesus Himself
- Jesus claimed equality with the Father and with the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 28:19, John 10:30–33)
- The Word “I AM” (John 8:57–59) connotes the immutability of Jesus.
- God alone is immutable. (Hebrews 13)
IV. The testimony of the Father (Hebrews 1:1-8)
- The Father Himself have acknowledged the divinity of Jesus, “Thy throne O God…”
V. The Testimony of God the Father concerning the divinity of Jesus is the strongest of all testimonies.
HIS HUMANITY
John 1:1–14 “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us…”
The Incarnation of Jesus
a. The object of Christian faith and the focal point of Christianity is Christ. Crucial tenets of our faith include Christ’s incarnation, atoning death, and resurrection. The incarnation of the Lord Jesus is very important to the entire basis of Christian doctrine. “.. and the word was made flesh.” (John 1:14; Isaiah 7:14)
- Hungry (Matthew 21:18-19)
- Thirsty (John 4:7, 19:28)
- Tired (John 4:6)
- Weakness (Luke 22:39-45)
- Death (Luke 23:46)
b. The Purpose of the Incarnation The Lord’s death was the reason for His incarnation. Why? Because God is immortal, and man cannot atone for sin on his own. In order to die and atone for sin, the only Son of God became a God-man and took on human characteristics (Philippians 2:6-7)
1. The Holy Spirit is God (Acts 5:1–5)
- Omniscient: All-Knowing (1 Corinthians 2:10–11)
- Omnipresent: All-Present (Psalm 139:7–8)
- Omnipotent: All-Powerful (Luke 1:35)
2. The Holy Spirit is a Person (John 14:16–17)
- He has a will. (1 Corinthians 12:11)
- He has emotions for He can be grieved. (Ephesians 4:30)
- He is addressed as “He” and “Him”. (John 14:17)
3. The Holy Spirit is Visible and Active
- He was seen by John the Baptist descending on Jesus in the form of a dove. Though gentle, He is the most powerful Person in the universe—actively moving in creation, ministry, and salvation.
4. The Works of the Holy Spirit
- Convicts the world of sin. (John 16:8)
- Plays an important role in our salvation (Titus 3:5/John 3:1)
- He brings lost souls to Jesus. Jesus said “…no one comes to the Father but by Me” (John 14:6). Likewise no one can come to Jesus apart from the working power of the Holy Spirit. Thus, we got saved. Apart from His ministry, heaven will have no population of humankind.
- Testifies of Jesus (John 15:26)
- Gives glory to Jesus (John 16:14)
- Guides us into all truth (John 16:13)
- Empowers believers to win souls (Acts 1:8)
- Comforts believers (John 14:16)
- Teaches and reminds us (John 14:26)
- Helps us pray (Romans 8:26-27)
- Enables us to minister (Luke 4:18)
5. The Fruit of the Holy Spirit
- The Spirit produces fruit that distinguishes Christians from the world. (Galatians 5:22-23)
6. The Gifts of the Holy Spirit
- The Spirit gives spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:7-10) to the church for edification, ministry, and the demonstration of God’s power, which are confirmed with signs and wonders (Mark 16:20).
- These gifts are manifestations of His presence and are still active during the entire church age.
Ephesians 2:1–9 outlines humanity’s sinful condition and need for a Savior. It also reveals the real reason why humanity is so depraved and could easily be swayed by sin.
- Salvation by Grace Alone
- God is a gracious God who wants to save all sinners, though none of us is worthy for we all transgressed God’s Law.
- Grace means unmerited favor.
- Salvation Through Faith Alone Not by works, so that no one may boast.
- Salvation In Christ Alone
- Salvation is found only in Jesus.
Jesus came for this purpose: to save mankind from the dominion of evil spirits who enslaved people.
Ephesians 2:2 “The prince of the power of the air”
Romans 7:14–17 “It is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.
THE BREAKING OF THE BREAD
- This ordinance was instituted by the Lord Jesus (Lk22:17-19)
- This has nothing to do with the doctrine of salvation. Ordinances have no power to save a human soul.
- This is to commemorate His suffering and death.
- The bread and the fruit of the vine are just symbols of His Body and Blood.
THE WATER BAPTISM
- The Lord Jesus in Matt.28:19 commanded the disciples to immerse in water every one who will receive the message of the kingdom.
- The Biblical method used in Baptism is immersion. For the word baptism comes from a Greek word “bapto” meaning “to immerse”.
- It has nothing to do with the doctrine of salvation.
We believe that the Lord Jesus Himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the Archangel and with the trumpet call of God to gather God’s people, which are bought by the blood and sanctified to meet the Lord in the air. “…and so we shall always be with the Lord.
1 Thessalonians 4:16–17 – “…and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”
Titus 2:13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;
This “Blessed Hope” was not only preached by Paul but so do the other writers of the New Testament. James (James 5:7-8), Peter (1 Peter 1:4-13, 5:4, 2 Peter 1:16), Jude (Jude 14), John (Revelation 22:20) but also by the angels while the Lord Jesus was ascending. They said:“…this same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven.” (Acts 1:11)
The foundation of Christianity is Jesus’ resurrection. “I am the resurrection and the life,” declared Jesus. “If someone believes in me, they will live even if they die” (John 11:25). His resurrection has validated our belief. Everything we believed in, preached, and prayed for would have been nothing more than lies and illusions if Jesus had not been raised from the grave. Thank God, however, death could not keep Him in the grave indefinitely.
“But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep“ (1 Corinthians 15: 20) “…but we shall all be changed – in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound and the dead will be raised incorruptible and we shall be changed. For this corruptible has put on the incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: ‘Death is swallowed up in victory. ‘O Death, where is your sting?’ “O Hades, where is your victory?’…But thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:51-55, 57)