"Apostolic Pentecostal" often refers to churches that hold to Oneness theology and emphasize restoring first-century church practices. This guide explains what Apostolic Pentecostals believe and how they differ from other Pentecostals.

What Does "Apostolic" Mean?

The term "Apostolic" in this context means:

Following the apostles' pattern — Seeking to restore New Testament church practices
Oneness theology — A non-Trinitarian view of God (in many cases)
Acts 2:38 emphasis — Baptism in Jesus' name and receiving the Spirit

Not all churches using "Apostolic" hold these views, but this is the most common usage in Pentecostal circles.

Key Apostolic Pentecostal Beliefs

1. The Oneness of God

Unlike mainstream Pentecostals who are Trinitarian, many Apostolic Pentecostals hold Oneness theology:

God is absolutely one—not three persons
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are manifestations (modes) of one God
Jesus is the fullness of the Godhead bodily (Colossians 2:9)
The name "Jesus" encompasses Father, Son, and Spirit

"Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one." — Deuteronomy 6:4

2. Baptism in Jesus' Name

Apostolic Pentecostals practice baptism using the formula "in the name of Jesus" rather than "Father, Son, and Holy Spirit":

"Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins." — Acts 2:38

They believe:

Apostles baptized in Jesus' name (Acts 8:16, 10:48, 19:5)
"In the name of Jesus" fulfills Matthew 28:19's command
Trinitarian formula came later in church history

3. Speaking in Tongues as Initial Evidence

Like most Pentecostals, Apostolic believers emphasize tongues as the initial evidence of receiving the Holy Spirit:

"All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues." — Acts 2:4

Some Apostolic groups view tongues not just as evidence but as necessary for salvation, completing the "new birth" experience.

4. The New Birth (Acts 2:38)

Many Apostolic Pentecostals teach that the complete new birth experience includes:

Repentance — Turning from sin
Water baptism in Jesus' name — For remission of sins
Receiving the Holy Ghost — With evidence of tongues

All three elements are seen as necessary for salvation, based on Acts 2:38 and John 3:5.

5. Holiness Standards

Apostolic churches often emphasize strict holiness:

For women:

Uncut hair (based on 1 Corinthians 11)
Modest dress (often skirts/dresses only)
No makeup or jewelry (or minimal)

For all:

No worldly entertainment
Modest appearance
Separation from "worldliness"

Standards vary by congregation and denomination.

Major Apostolic Denominations

United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI)

Largest Oneness denomination
Formed in 1945
Worldwide presence
Strict holiness standards

Pentecostal Assemblies of the World (PAW)

One of the oldest Oneness organizations
Historically African-American
Interracial from early days
May have less strict standards than UPCI

Assemblies of the Lord Jesus Christ (ALJC)

Smaller Oneness body
Similar beliefs to UPCI

Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ (COOLJC)

Founded by R.C. Lawson
African-American heritage

Apostolic vs. Trinitarian Pentecostals

Aspect	Apostolic (Oneness)	Trinitarian Pentecostals
Godhead	One person (Jesus)	Three persons, one God
Baptism formula	"In Jesus' name"	"Father, Son, Holy Spirit"
Salvation	Often: repentance + baptism + Spirit (with tongues)	Faith in Christ (tongues encouraged but not for salvation)
Holiness standards	Often stricter	Varies widely

What to Expect in an Apostolic Church

Worship Style

Energetic, Spirit-filled worship
Extended services (2+ hours common)
Altar calls and prayer times
Speaking in tongues during worship

Dress

Women: Often long skirts, uncut hair, minimal adornment
Men: May wear suits; some have beard restrictions
Visitors: Welcomed regardless of dress, but expectations for members

Atmosphere

Strong sense of community
Emphasis on prayer and fasting
Focus on evangelism and missions
Close relationships within congregation

Theological Concerns

From Trinitarian Perspective

Orthodox Christianity has historically affirmed the Trinity. Concerns about Oneness theology:

Historical precedent — Early church councils affirmed Trinitarianism
Biblical texts — Passages showing Father, Son, and Spirit as distinct (Matthew 3:16-17, John 17)
Relationship within Godhead — How can Jesus pray to the Father if they're the same person?

Oneness Response

Apostolic Pentecostals respond:

Councils can err — Scripture is ultimate authority
Distinctions are manifestations — Not separate persons
Prayer was in Jesus' humanity — The divine nature spoke to the human role

Common Questions

Are Apostolic Pentecostals Christians?

This is debated. They affirm:

Jesus as Lord and Savior
Salvation through Christ
Authority of Scripture
Holy living

However, their rejection of Trinitarianism places them outside historic Christian orthodoxy in the view of most theologians.

Why the strict dress codes?

Based on their interpretation of:

1 Corinthians 11 (hair covering)
1 Timothy 2:9 (modest dress)
Desire to be "separate" from the world

Can I visit an Apostolic church?

Yes! Visitors are welcome. You won't be required to meet dress standards as a visitor, though you may feel more comfortable dressing conservatively.

Do all Apostolic churches have the same beliefs?

No. "Apostolic" is a broad term. Some Apostolic churches are Trinitarian. Always ask specific churches about their beliefs.

Making Your Own Decision

If you're considering an Apostolic church:

Study Scripture for yourself on the Godhead, baptism, and salvation
Ask questions — Good churches welcome sincere inquiry
Compare with historic Christian teaching
Pray for guidance
Evaluate fruit — Is Christ glorified? Are people transformed?

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"There is one body and one Spirit... one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all." — Ephesians 4:4-6

Apostolic Pentecostal Explained: Beliefs, Practices, and Denominations