Oneness Pentecostalism facts for kids
Oneness Pentecostalism, also known as Apostolic Pentecostalism, is a Christian movement. It started around 1914, separating from the larger Pentecostal movement. Followers of Oneness Pentecostalism believe the Bible was inspired by God.
The name "Oneness" means they believe God is one being, not three separate persons like in the Trinity teaching. They believe that Jesus is God in human form, being fully God and fully human. This view is different from most Unitarians, who often see Jesus as only a man.
"Apostolic" means they follow the teachings of the 12 Apostles from the early Church. "Pentecostal" means they focus on the work of the Holy Spirit. This includes experiences like speaking in tongues, similar to what happened on the Day of Pentecost in the Bible.
Contents
What is Oneness Pentecostalism?
Oneness Pentecostalism is a branch of Christianity. It emphasizes a specific understanding of God and a lively worship style. This movement grew out of the early 20th-century Pentecostal revival.
How it Started
The Oneness movement began around 1914. It came from a disagreement within the wider Pentecostal movement. The main difference was about the nature of God. While most Christians believe in the Trinity (God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), Oneness Pentecostals believe God is one being who shows Himself in different ways.
Key Beliefs
Oneness Pentecostals have several core beliefs that guide their faith and practices:
God is One
The central belief is that God is absolutely one. They believe there is only one God, and His name is Jesus. They see the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit not as separate persons, but as different ways God shows Himself.
- God as Father: This refers to God's role as the Creator and planner of everything.
- God as Son (Jesus): This refers to God coming to Earth in human form to save people. Jesus is seen as God Himself, living as a man.
- God as Holy Spirit: This refers to God's power and presence working in the world and in believers' lives.
The Bible's Importance
Oneness Pentecostals believe the Bible is the inspired word of God. They see it as the complete guide for how to live and what to believe. They study the Bible carefully to understand God's will.
Baptism in Jesus' Name
A very important practice for Oneness Pentecostals is baptism. They believe that people should be baptized by being fully immersed in water. This baptism must be done in the name of Jesus Christ, rather than in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. They believe this follows the example of the early apostles.
Receiving the Holy Spirit
Another key belief is the importance of receiving the Holy Spirit. They believe this experience is often shown by speaking in tongues, just like on the Day of Pentecost. This is seen as a powerful sign of God's presence in a believer's life.
Worship and Practices
Worship services in Oneness Pentecostal churches are often very energetic. They include lively music, singing, and passionate preaching.
Worship Style
Services typically feature:
- Singing and Music: Often with instruments like drums, guitars, and keyboards. The music is usually joyful and upbeat.
- Preaching: Sermons are based on the Bible and aim to inspire and teach the congregation.
- Prayer: Members pray together, sometimes out loud, showing their devotion.
- Speaking in Tongues: This is a common practice during worship, believed to be a spiritual gift from God.
Lifestyle and Conduct
Oneness Pentecostals often follow strict rules for daily living. These rules are based on their interpretation of the Bible. They emphasize:
- Modest Dress: Many women wear dresses or skirts and do not cut their hair. Men often dress conservatively.
- Separation from the World: They try to avoid activities they see as worldly or sinful.
- Strong Community: Churches often have a close-knit community where members support each other.
How Oneness Pentecostalism is Different
The main difference between Oneness Pentecostalism and most other Christian groups is their view of God.
Compared to Trinitarianism
Most Christian churches believe in the Trinity. This means they believe God exists as three distinct persons: God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), and God the Holy Spirit. These three are seen as co-equal and co-eternal, yet they are one God.
Oneness Pentecostals, however, believe God is one person who shows Himself in different ways. They see Jesus as the full manifestation of God. They believe that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are titles or roles of the one God, not separate persons.
Compared to Unitarianism
Unitarianism is another belief system that says God is one. However, Unitarians often believe Jesus was only a man, a prophet, or a special human being, but not God Himself. Oneness Pentecostals strongly believe that Jesus is fully God in human flesh. This makes them very different from Unitarians.
Global Reach
Oneness Pentecostalism has grown significantly since its beginnings. It now has followers all over the world. It is especially strong in North America, Latin America, Africa, and parts of Asia. Many churches and organizations belong to this movement.
See also
In Spanish: Pentecostalismo unicitario para niños
