Part One:
Within some branches of some Pentecostalism and others, a movement has emerged that rejects the traditional doctrine of the Trinity. This anti-Trinity movement, often referred to as Oneness Pentecostalism, has splintered into various denominations, fellowships, and independent churches.
A central point of contention in this movement is the formula used in Christian baptism. While mainstream Christianity follows Jesus’ instruction in Matthew 28:19 to baptize “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,” those in the anti-Trinity camp reject this practice. Instead, they insist baptism should be performed “in the name of Jesus only,” arguing that the Trinitarian formula is unbiblical and, in some cases, even claiming it is an anti-Christ concept.
This perspective significantly deviates from historic Christian orthodoxy, which has affirmed the Trinity as a foundational truth since the early creeds of the Church. It’s important for believers to understand where these differences come from and to engage in thoughtful, biblically grounded discussion on matters of doctrine and practice.
Understanding these movements helps us appreciate the diversity within Pentecostalism while also reaffirming the core doctrines that unite the broader body of Christ.
The “Jesus Only” View of Baptism: A Revival of an Ancient Heresy
Adherents point to Acts 2:38, where Peter declares on the day of Pentecost: “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins…” They interpret this as a divine revelation that reveals the “true” meaning behind Matthew 28:19. According to their belief, the phrase in Matthew is essentially a riddle—one that is “unlocked” by the revelation that “Jesus” is the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
This teaching is a modern expression of an ancient heresy known as Modalism, or Sabellianism—named after Sabellius, a third-century teacher. Modalism denies the distinct persons of the Trinity, claiming instead that God reveals Himself in different “modes” or roles: Father in creation, Son in redemption, and Spirit in regeneration. Oneness advocates often present this as a unique, end-time revelation from God. Yet, ironically, the belief itself is not new—it revives a doctrine the early church refuted nearly 1,800 years ago.
While sincere in their convictions, this rejection of the Trinity stands in direct opposition to historic Christian orthodoxy, which affirms the co-equal and co-eternal nature of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Nicene Creed (A.D. 325), a foundational statement of Christian faith, was developed in part to combat such distortions of God’s nature.
The language of Scripture and the testimony of the early church both affirm a Triune God—not three gods, but one God in three persons. Understanding these theological distinctions isn’t just academic; it’s vital to preserving the integrity of the gospel and the fullness of who God has revealed Himself to be.
Within some branches of some Pentecostalism and others, a movement has emerged that rejects the traditional doctrine of the Trinity. This anti-Trinity movement, often referred to as Oneness Pentecostalism, has splintered into various denominations, fellowships, and independent churches.
A central point of contention in this movement is the formula used in Christian baptism. While mainstream Christianity follows Jesus’ instruction in Matthew 28:19 to baptize “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,” those in the anti-Trinity camp reject this practice. Instead, they insist baptism should be performed “in the name of Jesus only,” arguing that the Trinitarian formula is unbiblical and, in some cases, even claiming it is an anti-Christ concept.
This perspective significantly deviates from historic Christian orthodoxy, which has affirmed the Trinity as a foundational truth since the early creeds of the Church. It’s important for believers to understand where these differences come from and to engage in thoughtful, biblically grounded discussion on matters of doctrine and practice.
Understanding these movements helps us appreciate the diversity within Pentecostalism while also reaffirming the core doctrines that unite the broader body of Christ.
The “Jesus Only” View of Baptism: A Revival of an Ancient Heresy
Adherents point to Acts 2:38, where Peter declares on the day of Pentecost: “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins…” They interpret this as a divine revelation that reveals the “true” meaning behind Matthew 28:19. According to their belief, the phrase in Matthew is essentially a riddle—one that is “unlocked” by the revelation that “Jesus” is the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
This teaching is a modern expression of an ancient heresy known as Modalism, or Sabellianism—named after Sabellius, a third-century teacher. Modalism denies the distinct persons of the Trinity, claiming instead that God reveals Himself in different “modes” or roles: Father in creation, Son in redemption, and Spirit in regeneration. Oneness advocates often present this as a unique, end-time revelation from God. Yet, ironically, the belief itself is not new—it revives a doctrine the early church refuted nearly 1,800 years ago.
While sincere in their convictions, this rejection of the Trinity stands in direct opposition to historic Christian orthodoxy, which affirms the co-equal and co-eternal nature of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Nicene Creed (A.D. 325), a foundational statement of Christian faith, was developed in part to combat such distortions of God’s nature.
The language of Scripture and the testimony of the early church both affirm a Triune God—not three gods, but one God in three persons. Understanding these theological distinctions isn’t just academic; it’s vital to preserving the integrity of the gospel and the fullness of who God has revealed Himself to be.
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