What are the key beliefs of modern Apostolic churches regarding water baptism, Holy Spirit baptism, and the doctrine of holiness? Are these beliefs uniform or diverse across Apostolic movements?
2. Overview of Apostolic Theology
The term “Apostolic churches” generally refers to Pentecostal churches that claim continuity with the teachings and practices of the apostles in the book of Acts. Though the term includes both Oneness (non-Trinitarian) and Trinitarian groups, the focus here is primarily on Oneness Apostolic churches such as the United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI) and the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World (PAW).
3. Beliefs about Water Baptism
3.1 Mode and Formula
Belief: Baptism must be administered by immersion in water in the name of Jesus Christ only, following the pattern of Acts 2:38.
Rejection: The traditional Trinitarian formula (“in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit” – Matthew 28:19) is considered insufficient or later-developed.
Biblical Justification:
Acts 2:38 – “Be baptised in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.”
Acts 10:48 – Peter “commanded them to be baptised in the name of the Lord.”
3.2 Theological Significance
Aspect
Belief
Salvific
Baptism is essential to salvation and remits sin.
Identification
Baptism identifies the believer with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus (Romans 6:3–4).
Covenantal
Seen as entry into the New Covenant, symbolising new birth and obedience to apostolic doctrine.
4. Beliefs about Holy Spirit Baptism
4.1 Evidence and Necessity
Belief: Baptism in the Holy Spirit is a distinct experience from water baptism and is always evidenced by speaking in tongues (glossolalia).
Essential: Viewed as necessary for full salvation and spiritual empowerment.
4.2 Scriptural Basis
Verse
Interpretation
Acts 2:4
Initial Pentecost experience; all spoke in tongues.
Acts 10:44–46
Cornelius’ household received the Spirit with tongues.
Acts 19:6
Paul laid hands; they spoke in tongues and prophesied.
4.3 Purpose and Function
Function
Belief
Regeneration
The Spirit indwells and regenerates the believer.
Sanctification
The Spirit enables holy living and victory over sin.
Power for Witness
Empowerment to fulfil the Great Commission (Acts 1:8).
5. Beliefs about Holiness
5.1 Doctrine of Holiness
Holiness is seen as both positional (in Christ) and progressive (in conduct).
Based on 1 Peter 1:15–16: “Be ye holy, for I am holy.”
5.2 Outward and Inward Holiness
Type
Description
Inward
Moral purity, separation from sin, spiritual transformation.
Outward
Modest clothing, abstaining from jewellery, makeup, and entertainment, particularly for women.
5.3 Gender and Conduct Standards
Women: Expected to wear long skirts, abstain from cutting hair or using cosmetics.
Men: Expected to maintain modest appearance, short hair, and spiritual leadership.
These are considered obedience to biblical principles, not legalistic rules (1 Corinthians 11; Deuteronomy 22:5; Romans 12:1–2).
6. Diversity Within Apostolic Movements
Topic
Consensus
Variation
Jesus Name Baptism
Universally affirmed in Oneness churches
Trinitarian Pentecostals do not affirm this
Tongues as Evidence
Affirmed by most Apostolics
Some moderate groups accept exceptions
Holiness Standards
Strong in traditional groups (e.g. UPCI)
Looser in progressive Apostolic churches
7. Summary Table
Doctrinal Area
Apostolic Belief
Biblical Support
Water Baptism
In Jesus’ name only; essential for salvation
Acts 2:38, Acts 10:48
Spirit Baptism
Required; evidenced by tongues
Acts 2:4, Acts 19:6
Holiness
Inward purity and outward separation
1 Peter 1:16, Romans 12:2, 1 Timothy 2:9
8. Critical Reflections
8.1 Strengths
High regard for biblical obedience and personal sanctity.
Emphasis on spiritual experience and transformation.
Strong sense of community identity and moral discipline.
8.2 Criticisms
Legalistic tendencies in holiness teaching.
Strict doctrines (e.g. tongues as a salvation requirement) sometimes seen as exclusionary.
Baptismal formula controversy remains a point of division with wider Christianity.
9. Key Denominations
Church Body
Notes
United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI)
Largest Oneness Apostolic denomination
Pentecostal Assemblies of the World (PAW)
One of the earliest Oneness bodies
Apostolic Assembly of the Faith in Christ Jesus
Spanish-speaking Oneness fellowship
10. References
Bernard, D. K. (2000). The New Birth. Word Aflame Press.
Yong, A. (2005). The Spirit Poured Out on All Flesh. Baker Academic.
Reed, D. A. (2002). “In Jesus’ Name”: The History and Beliefs of Oneness Pentecostals. Deo Publishing.
Synan, V. (1997). The Holiness-Pentecostal Tradition. Eerdmans.
