Oneness Pentecostalism

Oneness Pentecostalism (also known as Jesus Name or Apostolic Pentecostalism) refers to a grouping of denominations and believers within Pentecostal Christianity, all of whom subscribe to the theological doctrine of Oneness. This movement claims an estimated 24 million adherents today. Major Oneness Pentecostal churches include: the United Pentecostal Church International, the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith, the Bible Way Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Apostolic Assembly of the Faith in Christ Jesus, the Assemblies of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Apostolic Church of Pentecost of Canada. Other Oneness Pentecostal denominations are listed at Oneness Pentecostal denominations. This movement first emerged around 1914, as the result of doctrinal disputes within the nascent Pentecostal movement.

Oneness Pentecostalism derives its distinctive name from its teaching on the Godhead, which is popularly referred to as the Oneness doctrine. This dogma states that there is one God, a singular spirit who manifests himself in many different ways, including as Father, Son and Holy Ghost. This stands in sharp contrast to the the doctrine of three distinct and eternal "persons" posited by Trinitarian theology. Oneness believers baptize in the name of Jesus Christ, commonly referred to as Jesus-name baptism, rather than using the Trinitarian formula.

Other beliefs held by Oneness Pentecostals include the atoning death of Jesus Christ, his resurrection, his impending return, and the literal word of God as contained in the Bible. Oneness Pentecostalism teaches that one should literally follow the scriptural injunctions found in John 3:1-12 and Acts 2:38 by accepting Jesus Christ as personal Lord and Savior, by repenting of all sins, being baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, and receiving the baptism of the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in other tongues. This is to be followed by holy living, showing love one to another, and exhibiting other Fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). As with all Pentecostals, their church services feature lively music and worship. They practice believers baptism, foot washing and Communion. Many, but not all, of these beliefs are shared by other Christians.