Oneness Pentecostal churches that baptize in Jesus' name only and teach that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are one God — not three persons — revealed fully in Jesus Christ.
Apostolic churches represent the Oneness or 'Jesus Only' stream of Pentecostalism, which emerged from a theological controversy at a camp meeting in Arroyo Seco, California, in 1913. Preachers there began re-examining the baptismal formula in Acts — 'in the name of Jesus Christ' — and concluded that the Trinitarian formula ('in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit') was a later addition. This led to a broader theological conviction: that God is absolutely one, not a Trinity of three persons, and that Jesus Christ is the full embodiment of the Godhead — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit all dwelling in one person.
This theological position, called Oneness or Apostolic theology, distinguishes Apostolic churches from Trinitarian Pentecostals like the Assemblies of God. Apostolic churches typically teach that the new birth consists of repentance, baptism in Jesus' name only (not the Trinitarian formula), and receiving the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues. Many also maintain standards of holiness in dress and conduct.
In Fayetteville, Apostolic churches are often found in the Black Apostolic tradition, which has its own rich worship culture and history. The United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI) is the largest Oneness Pentecostal denomination, but many Apostolic churches are independent or affiliated with smaller fellowships.
Apostolic churches are distinguished from all other Pentecostal bodies by their Oneness theology — the rejection of the Trinity in favor of a strict monotheism that identifies Jesus as the full Godhead. Their baptismal formula ('in Jesus' name') and their understanding of the new birth set them apart from both Trinitarian Pentecostals and mainline Christianity.
Highly expressive and Spirit-led — extended worship, speaking in tongues, prayer for healing, and spontaneous congregational participation. Many Apostolic churches, particularly in the Black tradition, feature powerful gospel music and extended altar services.
Movement emerged 1913–1916 from the Pentecostal revival; various Apostolic fellowships organized throughout the 20th century.
Their distinctive Oneness theology, their 'Jesus Only' baptismal formula, and their vibrant, expressive worship culture.