Oh my goodness the "red carpet event" comment shook me bc I know exactly what they mean! Short story: I remember I was about 19 years old...so 7 years ago attending a senior church camp service and getting all dressed up bc you know...its a red carpet event after all. And during the service my mind started to wonder.....and I began to realize how self righteous the whole thing was...including my own feelings toward it. So I had to go outside and get some old clothes out of my car and change bc I was convicted of what I had playing a part in.
I totally agree. Even as a guy growing up in upc from the late 70s until 2012. The youth camps, ralleys and especially general conference it was definitely like the red carpet. I felt so pressured keeping up with the latest trends within men's fashions suits, ties, even jeans. And the girls had the highest hairdos, some of the dresses were almost like modest prom dresses if you please. Looking back, I think 🤔 what foolishness we were spending so much time and money on clothes, and even with cars. I ensured I didn't drive anything older than 3 years old. And I noticed it several times, so many young people felt so out of place because their parents didn't have the $$$ to buy the latest trends, or $$ for camp, conferences etc. Now, I am nondenominational and I am comfortable attending and have so much liberty knowing I can wear jeans and a nice polo. Our pastor now is in jeans and nice button down. You would never see a upci minister preach in jeans on a Sunday. God forbid!!! They preach modesty in dress yet they spend $$$ and more $$$ on suits, shoes, fancy clothes. Why??? That has nothing to do with Christianity and salvation. Excellent and loving people within the Apostolic churches and I still have close friends who attend. But for me, It was time for me to go and I have close close relationship with Jesus! And I pray constantly 🙏. I am thankful for my heritage but I know the Lord has moved me into another path. Heaven still the destiny just a different road.
Glory to God. This testimony helps those of us who are not leaving due to abuse. My family is leaving for doctrinal issues. The more we studied the clearer God's word became. Still, there's doubt bc of the good people we are leaving behind. This video helped to confirm that ultimately what matters is God's word, not the organization.
Right. For us we didn't exactly recognize the abuse until after we left and looked back on some experiences. It was very hard to find other testimonials on youtube of people that left because of the doctrine. Hopefully this will help others. Thank you for the encouraging words.
"How can you possess fruit of a spirit that you don't have." BOOM! This was probably the first question that came through my mind and it opened the floodgates of other questions that followed. Praise God that I can now know Jesus truly and embrace the full and free gift of salvation through Him!
That was one of my favorite parts too AJ. It took me back to when I was a teen. I knew Christians who had different doctrine than we did (UPC) and would not have been considered saved, who were walking in the fruit of the Spirit. On the flip side of that...many of the loudest proudest tongue talkers I knew (supposedly an overflow of the Spirit) had none. It didn't make any sense to me and was one of the major starting points for my questions as well.
Great video! I really enjoyed it. There were some really good points made. One was how so many oneness people, including pastors, will not dare to actually study some of these subjects for themselves. They bought into UPCI doctrine - not bible doctrine. Another thing that stood out was how effective the UPCI is in instilling the "authority" of the "pastor" aka "the man of God" in people's mind. When you distance yourself from this movement and look back on it, it is terrifying how effective they are at putting systems in place for the purpose of controling people. Also a big thank you to this young couple for having the courage to give this testimony.
Beautiful testimony! Gives me great courage. I was born and raised in UPC and have questions my entire life that I was scared to ask because I knew what the reaction would be. I’m diligently studying and finding those answers I knew existed. God is good!
Thank you Deanna Jo for another great and encouraging video. Thank you Jeremey and Carolyne for sharing your story. Praise God you were able to "study your way out".
I’m a new subscriber. This is such a true ministry. I too grew up very strict. My dad took us to several churches and some were UPC. We didn’t have a tv. We couldn’t listen to the radio or secular music. We couldn’t even wear name brand clothes because that was worldly. I rebelled when I got away from my dad and went kind of wild. When I was 20 I repented and truly gave my life to Christ. I am the minister of music at a Baptist church now. No one speaks in tongues, but the Spirit of God is definitely working and changing lives at our church. I realize that the true Church can be found in many different denominations which are man made. The true church are those who have His Spirit, and some of those have never spoke in tongues. Thank you for your courage to do what the Lord has called you to do. God is using you, probably more than you know.
I understand not wanting to feel alone, rejected, or forgotten but when God opened my eyes to the unscriptural teaching it was more a concern of , how can I remain and work for God in this situation for I'm leading more into captivity not leading them to liberation in Christ. It was the hardest thing to do, walk away and follow Christ after 40 years in UPCI. We are 5 years following God and not following dogma. It's not been easy but I'd rather follow God in faith then follow man in traditional obedience that's a salvation issue, at least I think so , or at least a relief from a heavy burden God never required of me.
I left the UPC when 23. I've been out for 24 years now. I had been in "the church" since I was 8. I took several months to search the scriptures after I left cause I had to know what God said instead of what I had been brainwashed into believing. When grace was revealed to me it was the best day of my life. No more fear or condemnation. No more spiritual abuse. It was bad in that denomination.
Same here! The day I understood grace was the best day of my life too! The stress/pressure was off and I looked at Jesus and his sacrifice on the cross so much differently. ❤️
What a great testimony ❤️ thanks for sharing. It's so hard to leave a denomination who thinks their way is the only way and yet it seems like this couple did it in the most appropriate, kind, and non-bitter way.
The best thing ever said to me, “You are leaving an organization you are not leaving God.” I attended JCM and was an AIMer. I am now an ordained pastor in another organization. So happy to find God’s Grace and love!
I left the church in 1996 To this day I have a special page in my prayer journal 🙏 to forgive my former pastor bc he called my son ugly behind the pulpit. This kind of behavior is beyond abusive. Its down right evil! These videos are very helpful. I want to Thank you for exposing them. Yall are coping alot better then I did at that time. Again, Thank you so much.
I'm sorry your ex pastor was so abusive and hateful. It's one thing when someone hurts us, but when they go after our kids...mama bear comes out! I totally understand how difficult it would be to deal with that. I'm glad you had the courage to leave that church. Sadly, pulpits attract narcissists. If you look it up, it's one of the top 10 professions (clergy) listed for narcissists and psychopaths due to the instant admiration and status that comes with the job (narcissistic supply). I've seen so many pastors who are just cold, harsh and don't care about people at all. I think it's more prevalent in evangelical churches as well because they pay better and almost commit idolatry in the way they celebrate their pastors. Unfortunately they end up with a lot of pulpit bullies as a result.
Good morning!!! Yes it's 4:22 AM May 21. Couldn't sleep so I watch your videos. I would like to say this video has been my all time favorite thus far. This young couple has so much love and compassion for God. And the way they expressed and shared their transition out of the Apostolic church was heartfelt and truly sincere. I did not here judgement,, anger or bitterness. It was brought to the table with understanding, forgiveness and love. As a former upci member I know exactly where they are coming from. And no......not a 4-5-6th generation pentecostal here. I attended from age 10- until about 48-49. I am now nondenominational and feel so much liberty in God. Our church now is a Holy Ghost Spirit filled church. And honestly..... I am closer to God then I ever been. I am now living for God out of Love and conviction not for man and condemnation. Having a Real Relationship with Jesus is the key v. having religion. I appreciate your program
You can tell who studies their Bibles and who doesnt... the ones that don't are usually the ones being deceived. I was one of them. Now I get in the Word and ask Holy Spirit to lead me into all truth Nd give me understanding...will never look back! Left this cult and feel so free and loved by God.
Be patient, pray for her, cover her with love and try with wisdom to take her far away from this cult… even if you have to move for it. My wife started to open her eyes almost 2 year after me during this time she almost divorced from me but God has been gracious to us and today by his grace we are stronger than we have ever been.
Love your site. I was adopted and brought up in this horrific church.. When the Lord did get me out I was so confused so brain washed. I was even told to leave my husband as well. Its about totally control and if you could truly see past the smiles etc. You would find many abusive homes that go to this church. Thank.God people are seeing the truth before its to late and getting True Salvation. I thought I was saved at a young age because I did their three step program of works. When I think about it now I almost could cry that Jesus seen my love for Him was pure but I was not even saved and if I would have died I would have split hell wide open. I think about the many souls who came each night to the altar but never got the spoke in tongues and gave up and never came back. I.wonder if they thought themselves to bad for God to save because they did not do it the UPCI way. Lots of blood will be on many hands come judgment day.
I was in a long distant relationship with a girl who is currently still in a very small UPCI church in California. At the time, I didn't know that she was involved in this "church" but interacting with her, red flags kept popping up. Finally, things ended between us when the pastor wanted to talk to me after she confessed to them she was dating outside the church. On the phone with this man, i noticed A) he was full of himself and B) he didn't really like it when I asked question. Im assuming the pastor and his wife thought I was a naive convert (not knowing my background in apologistics). So they butted in and convinced her to cut ties with me two days later. I'm still praying for her. I can tell she's genuinely on the quest for truth.
I definitely agree that the theology is the most important. To be fair though, it is often the little questions about the standards which makes people realize that not everything they're being taught is in scripture. From there many have the courage to go on and confront the more important doctrinal positions. I also feel that the fact that you're a man makes the standards seem like a smaller issue to you than they really are, as they wouldn't affect you as much. As a woman who grew up in the movement, I can't even begin to tell you how deeply the standards and the fear and shame associated with them impacts and damages young women (self esteem, guilt and shame for liking normal things, missing out on certain activities/jobs because you can't dress appropriately, feeling like you're constantly being monitored and judged by your outward appearance, feeling hopeless and that you'll never measure up, placing our faith in things that can't save us, and even creating spiritual pride...).
I’m guessing by your name that you are a man. Because of that, the standards don’t apply to you as much - which I completely understand. It is so important to me, as a woman, to here others validate my feelings on standards. I was raised that it was a part of our theology and that standards were a heaven or hell issue.
This brother is describing exactly what people suggested about us (a little over the 48 minute mark), .. “You must have never truly receive the revelation of truth.” Yes we heard that one a few times. Even though we lived it, taught it, bought the tee shirt (even wrote Bible studies and a book about it), people still suggested that we never actually came to the full revelation, otherwise we would not have turned from it. Ironically the same churches are still using my Bible studies foe their discipleship courses for teaching new converts. So I guess I must have understood well enough to drag others into it 🤷🏻♂️
I left the UPC last March after 18 years. Recovery and study are like facing giants. I still hold the values that I have studied, not just told. In the end....I felt like I was Cain and rejected by God. I was so very near suicide and no one knew. I cried out to God to leave th 99 to find me. He sent 3 separate people before I finally saw His leading.
I think there is teaching needed on tongues. Paul said there are diversities of tongues. Some attempt to say that when you speak in tongues that it has to be spoken to a person in their native tongue only. That does happen but there are still other operations of tongues. There is a tongue spoken to the church that is followed by an interpretation. There is also the unknown tongue when you do not speak to men but to God. So this belief that it can only be the way done in Acts 2 is in error. It also doesn’t say that when they spoke in tongues in Acts 2 that they knew what they were saying. Only those who heard what was being said understood. It’s not about learning a language as some try to teach.
Where does it say there are diversities of tongues? I don't believe it says that at all. In Corinthians it says there are diversities in GIFTS. Tongues being one of the gifts.
This is sad I was raised in the UPCI and was in and out of church many times,and tried many religions but I came back and there is nothing that can compare to it and I will never leave it.
I hope you're meaning that nothing can compare to Him and you will never leave Him. The UPC is not the way, Jesus is. I'm glad you've found your way back to faith.
Responsible Faith , Thank you for the UA-cam interviews that you have been doing . I have been sharing them on my Blog . There are many people who want to leave the UPCI who are afraid to leave and there are many people who have left and are not sure where to go to church due to having been heavily indoctrinated . I was shocked recently to read a Facebook post of a man whom I was in my UPC with many years ago .He said that Jesus Christ was telling the Pharisees that if they do not believe that Jesus Christ is God the Father incarnate , that they would die in their sins . He said that He was not talking about God the Son , the second person of a non existent Trinity .It is one thing to not believe in the doctrine of the Trinity but it is deplorablet to say that Jesus Christ was not saying that unless they believe that He is the Son of God , they would die in their sins . Someone has to be deceived to not understand that Jesus Christ Himself indicated during His earthly ministry , that Salvation is through faith in the Son of God .The man gives weekly Bible studies and has been in the church for over 34 years and people in that congregation actually think that he is very zealous for Bible truth . Jeremy and Carolyne's story is definitely reality that needs to be heard . One reason why I share UA-cam videos on my Blog is so that many people will see that my Blog is not all about me and what I believe . If anyone is interested , the link to my Blog is pfupandsop.blogspot.com
I love how this couple said “their personal conviction”…thank you. The church I’m currently in, the pastor actually said over the pulpit, “you must have the same convictions as me”. I knew I should’ve left then(I started going March 2021). Now, I’ve stayed out of my own fear, I guess.I got the Holy Ghost when I was 20(my physical birth and spiritual birth are 1 day apart. I’ll be 50 this year). I’m not new to this in any way. When you sit under a pastor for more than 1/2 your life and then sit under another that teaches/preaches something different, it causes some thought to enter your mind. At least for me it does. That’s where I struggle. I wasn’t “manipulated” into receiving the Holy Ghost or “speaking in tongues”. How can one be “manipulated” into receiving it? I hear over the pulpit all the time “if anyone leaves these doors, you’re to have NO contact with them”. If parents have kids, don’t contact them(pray for them). If kids have parents, don’t associate with them(pray for them). You get my drift. We are to have NO relationship with those who choose to leave. You’re not supposed to go out of your way to associate yourself with a backslider. Same goes for family who’ve never even been in “church”. Jeremy, that sounds like what I’m about to go through. Again, my husband has never even been “in church”. My question to this couple: were any messages preached over the pulpit directed towards y’all leaving?
There were not any sermon preached from the pulpit directed to our decision to leave that I know of. I did not drag this decision out. My wife and I prayed and studied for about 8 months. When we were convinced to leave it was at that time that we went to our Pastor and told them and that was the conversation you hear about in the video. We did not attend church after that conversation. So, he may very well have preached on us leaving, but I cannot say for certain.
I grew up in a holiness church that adhered to outward holiness standards but it was not Pentecostal. It was actually the Pilgrim Holiness denomination. My family joined the Assemblies of God when I was 14 which is a Pentecostal denomination but not UPCI or Apostolic. What does the UPCI say about other Pentecostal groups? They have no problem using our worship songs 😂
Hi there, Actually, most of the UPC music is original from with the upc realm. So many of familiar pentecostal music has been written by upc or former upc members. I'll list a few here and you can check them out on you tube. Please note, most are no longer upc and there are still a few they do attend. Most popular writer and musician has to be Lanny Wolfe, Geron Davis who wrote Holy Ground, and In the Presence of Jehovah. Mark and Lori Carouthers, Wayne Goodine, Phillips Craig and Dean were raised in upc and each of them now pastor a nondenominational church. Vicki Yohe' was a power house in music in the upci. I know she still tours and I am thinking she is nondenominational not sure though. Becky Fender The following are still upc and excellent song writers and musicians very anointed. Shara McKee, Sharon Walker, Vonnie Lopez, Nancy Grandquist. Mark Condon, Tim Pedigo, Terry Wilbanks Singers, Atlanta West Pentecostal Church Choir, Mattoon Youth Choir. I am no longer upc/ apostolic but I can HONESTLY SAY.... No one can touch their music and worship. That is what I miss the most leaving upc. Also look up Indiana Bible College IBC PRAISE and Gateway College of Evangelism. Both are upci Bible colleges and have excellent music.
I have recently left the Apostolic church, not because of the teachings, but because my knee length hair was giving me terrible migraines. I had dealt with it for many years, and as they worsened, I had my hair cut. I had also had to go back to work in a hospital( psychiatric units), and wearing skirts for 4 years was immodest at times. I began to wonder why? Why does God expect me to try to be covered in a skirt, when I was literally having to straddle patients to await injections.. I had always been told that if I cut my hair, Jesus would leave me immediately. I prayed about it, and hesitated for years, and finally did it. I felt absolutely no spiritual difference. I began wearing scrub pants to work and felt absolutely no spiritual difference. I decided to re-pierce my ears just because I was already out in the world, and I might as well look prettier, the same, no difference. I am not comfortable enough to wear pants outside of work. I have listened to the debates concerning oneness versus Trinity and still don’t see the Trinity. Therefore, I am not attending church. I will not be welcomed in any of my past Penecostal churches, because I am now considered a back slider as you well know, but the oneness doctrine has been ingrained in me since I was a little girl and I am 53 ..Well, unless I pray back through ha ha. I can’t really explain it, but I feel such a sense of freedom. I was always told that if you were in the world wearing worldly things, then you were bound, but I have to say that since I am out of the church, I am feeling freedom. Is there any scriptural material that you could recommend? I appreciate your openness, this video really blessed me. My FB is Jo Ellen McNair. Please reach out to me if you can help in anyway. Blessings to you.!!
As a retired health care worker I am curious if your migraines went away or improved after cutting your hair? I have heard stories about headaches or backaches being caused by the weight of heavy hair.
Fall in love with the word of God . Be obedient to the scriptures and submit yourselves unto the man of Gods that he may give an account with joy and not sorrow. To many live for organizations and not God. Organization is a good thing. Following the Apostles doctrine is the only way (keys to the kingdom) .
Jesus is the way (Acts 4:12). This article might help you understand the idea of a "man of God" giving an "account with joy and not sorrow". www.wadeburleson.org/2020/02/remember-them-who-rule-over-you-and.html
Yes, they do have some good basic teaching on salvation through faith...although I cannot stomach John MacArthur's views on women nor his arrogant attitude (it reminds me a lot of what we left). That being said, I have enjoyed a few of his sermons. It's great to be at a place where we can listen to teachings, compare them with scripture and take the meat and throw away the bones. Freedom is a wonderful thing.
You Tubes videos out on MacArthur explaining that it’s ok for a Christian to take the mark of the beast and still go to Heaven/that’s not what King Jesus said “It won’t be forgiven in this life time nor the next to come” why? That’s the ultimate blasphemy against Holy Spirit...Just dialoguing
The I’m Pentecostal - I’m saved - Buttttt .... I’m only saved by the skin of my teeth ! Living in constant fear and condemnation. Until “””” one day you realize the God you pray to alone : isn’t the same God they preach . And now truth comes in ,,, and now your free from the burdens of man .
That’s an excuse people who want to believe in God but serve him on their own terms say. The Bible says God is faithful to forgive us if we repent so where does the “saved by the skin of my teeth” or live in fear come from.
A question was asked about why it mattered what generation you are. It matters because, if you're leaving or thinking about leaving, you're not just leaving a brick and mortar building or a denomination, you're leaving tradition. You're leaving family. That family may think as mine that their way is the only way. My mother told me to my face that I have the devil in me. That's generational religion.
Yes, of course I do understand that. I guess I was mentioning it more in relation to hearing many people who are still in and are happy to remain, almost brag about what generation they are (the more the better). It's usually presented as almost a pedigree of sorts. It's a weird culture for sure. It certainly is more complicated to leave when your entire family has been embedded in this movement for generations (mine was too).
@@ResponsibleFaith I'm sorry. I hope you weren't thinking that I posted that out of anger. I was born and raised (3rd generation myself) as a UPCI preachers kid. I'm 50 years old and been "out" of the meetings for 23 years. Though I never faced some of the more aggregious offenses I've heard since finding your channel, I'm just coming now getting down to the pain and resentment that I feel. I feel guilt for feeling those things.
Not at all, I just figured you were explaining from your perspective. There's nothing wrong with sorting through our feelings (even the negative ones) in regards to our past in the UPC. God gave us our emotions and we can't heal unless we face them head on and sort through the pain/trauma behind them, I wish you peace on this journey...it's certainly not always easy.
What about when Paul talks about praying in the Spirit to edify himself with God and that he's glad he does it more than anyone else? I don't believe we should throw out the real because we're afraid of the false.. what you think? Honest Question... I've never been upci
Paul gives clear instruction in the previous chapters that the gifts are never for edifying one's self but rather the çhurch assembly. These who were showing in an unknown tongue were just being the air, no one was being edified. The gifts are always to minister to others. We see that understanding with clarity when reading the entirety of 1 Corinthians chapters 12-14.
One thing that stands out to me is Carolyne has a very distinct aura of the Lord around her, upon her, almost a glowing aura around her. Not everyone has that. She is covered by prayers of her family is my general impression.
@@ResponsibleFaith She has a covering of the Lord on her. I see like a faint white aura glow around her, it's about an inch or two wide. I see it on some people. Two people that stand out in my mind with that same aura are my pastor has it on her, evangelist Josh Herring has it.
I'm curious if you assume the white aura you see is because of " the prayers of her family" because they are UPC? If I believed someone to have a strong presence of God over their life, I'd assume it was their own prayer life and closeness with God that caused it. Why was your first thought that it was because of her family?
The bible in Ecclesiastes 3:7 b, States, " there is a time to speak and a time to be silent. If the "church" would "SHUT UP!!" for 5 mins a just listen. You don't have to agree. JUST LISTEN, TO WHAT IS BEING SAID! Ya wonder why people leave, dont want anything to do with God or the church. Your comments which are your actions are proving to her, and everybody else left you are proving that they mad the correct decisions. Do you all know we all have to give an account for we we say, what we do, how we act. In the scriptures, " In that great and terrible day. They will say, Lord, Lord didn't we prophesy in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, heal the sick in Your name. He will say "Depart from me I never knew you. That scripture is talking about you, Pentecostals, you charismatics, its referring to us. Jesus is talking about you all. This denomination makes fun of people and is so self absorbed and self righteous. Jesus warned to beware of the leaven (sin) of the Sadducess and pharisees. What is that leaven, self absorbed and self righteousness, thinking you are better than others because of the doctrine and standards. You hurt people and gaslight them. Ministers who have a Napoleon complex, and congregation that act like Nazis. Your ignorant,racist, homophobic, prejudiced, and inconsiderate of people. White wash tombs full of dead men's bones. You travel miles and miles to convert people and make them 10× worse than you. Woe unto you. For the peoples cries have reached God. People have contemplated suicide, because of your inactions and actions. What is wrong with you people? Do you really think if Jesus shows up in your little Congregation He would be happy. The answer is No. You wouldn't even recognize your own savior. You people are sickening. You all really need to read, especially "secular" books on psychology and neurology. Most of you are homeschooled and have the equivalent to a 3rd grade education. You ride the short bus, and eat glue. A bunch of spiritual babies and toddlers still on ya mama's titties. Judgement starts in the House of God. Remember we are walking tabernacles. I said what I said.
I was raised Lutheran until someone decided that we needed to become pentecostal. That's when life turned spiritually. The guilt, shame and condemnation was unbearable. I gave up and left the church. Years later I started to read my Bible without other voices. I thought I was reading herasy. Fast forward I've pretty much abandoned everything the pentecostal church taught me. My deconstruction has taken me much further than you. My understanding of the gospel is that it's better news for everyone than any church I'm aware represents. I won't return to church. Can't think of a bigger waste of time.
It breaks my heart how guilty and shameful we were made to feel in pentecostalism. That's tormenting. I'm so glad you turned to your Bible. I turned to mine, too. The Lord is still teaching me, and HE is wonderful!!
It is crazy how many Lutherans I have met at my Mom’s Pentecostal church. I was raised in the Lutheran church attended Sunday school from cradle roll at 3 yrs old until I graduated high school was involved in all the youth programs. Received the Holy Spirit (not speaking in tongues) at Bible camp when I was in 8th grade. No one knew I had received the Holy Spirit other than myself and one of the counselors. It was a CoEd camp and we were having a singing around the camp fire one night and the Holy Spirit stepped on into my heart. I cannot put into words the peace that flooded over me and then tears of joy started pouring out of my eyes. I was on the outside edge of the group and no one around even knew anything had happened/changed. I didn’t make a peep. Across the fire from me was one of the counselors from the boys cabin and he saw the peace come over me and then the tears. He came around the fire to talk to me quietly (everyone else was still singing away and took no notice), he is the one that told me it was the Holy Spirit. I never did share it with anyone at camp because it was such an incredibly special moment between me and GOD! I knew there was a much deeper relationship to be had with The LORD that I would not find at the Lutheran church so I decided to go to my Mom’s church. Some of sermons/lessons moved and it was deeper than anything I had heard at my Lutheran church but…there are things that have always kept me from joining. One of them being that they told me I couldn’t have truly received the Holy Spirit when I was in 8th Grade because if I didn’t speak in tongues. I know with all my heart that I did and thought they had a lot of gall to tell me I didn’t, like they were the be all and end all! There are a lot of things I really like but my discernment has never let me commit. Their doctrine is so over powering and is more of a focus than saving souls. It is the HEART not the superficial things and the speaking false tongues.
So sorry this couple did not have a good mentor When they had questions about doctrine! John McArthur is against speaking in tounges What about Acts 19 Paul said have you Received the Holy Ghost since you believed! I would be so careful not to be drawn Away from God’s will!
True we are known for our fruits...Paul said but I speak in tongues more than ye all...The unknown tongue is for spiritual self edification in the Holy Ghost
If you watched the video you'd know that they had plenty of nice things to say about the UPC people and some nice things they learned and experienced there.
I just want to try and clarify something about the formation of the upc. I hear people say their fourth and 5th generation. I think more of what they should say is that they are like 4th or fifth generation oneness Pentecostal Because the actual United Pentecostal Church was not formed until 1945 so if the young lady who is fifth generation, more than likely it is that whomever the first person was to be Pentecostal in her family was under the name oneness apostolic. Just a morsel to think about
Yes, I've always wondered about that too. If I count, I was 3rd generation (my grandparents and parents)...I'm not sure how anyone goes back much farther than that either. We've only got about 75 years to work with. It certainly is a matter of status in the UPC though.
I’m curious on what is doctrine to you, what is the word to you, like do you believe and teach holiness as God does, do you believe in separation? Should you not preach about hell? The issue on hair God said women shouldn’t cut there hair, I mean if you don’t agree because UPCI said so, that’s not the case, it’s the word of God. Please let me know what you believe the Word of God says pertaining to these things, and whether or not we should implement our own teachings over that of the Bible.
We should not hold doctrines of man above Gods word. We believe in holiness, practical holiness, we believe we are separated not by how we dress but rather we have been chosen, separated, marked, anointed, and set aside by The Holy Spirit for the work and glory of God. I would advise you too look at the historical context when reading the verses about hair. Notice the cultural application for the people of that day as well as the universal application we are to make today. Please, don't blindly follow after the holiness tradition. That is a tradition of men that people are teaching as if it were inspired by God. A violation of Matthew 15:9.
UPC is a doctrine of man. UPC throws out phrases that are NOT in the bible. Example "speaking in tongues is the initial evidence" prove it. It doesn't say that.
The reality is no matter how terrible of an experience someone has with UPC or any other organization, that doesn't define everyone in that organization.. I'm personally not a member of the UPC I've seen things that have been mentioned on this channel within the organization, but to create a whole channel based around leaving and bad experiences with them kind of does sound like there is a little bitterness somewhere.. I'm not taking up for them, I've had a bad experience with them as well, but with the help of God I was able to move on and realize not everyone is the same, some organizations may have members that favor each other more than others, but I think continuing to only point out the bad and spotlight key points of bad experiences in this interview whenever they were saying a bunch of good things isn't good.. again I'm not a member of this organization before people think I'm taking up for them, it's better just to get better and move on, I'm sure there are people that don't like being labeled as something because of one person's or a group of peoples bad experiences with a person that probably didn't define what they stand for anyway. Just my thoughts.
The focus of this channel is not "leaving the UPCI", it's to encourage people to take responsibility for their own faith to ensure that they're not being taught things that are untrue. The secondary focus is spiritual abuse which happens in every church group, but seems to be more prevalent in more strict legalistic ones. I do deal a lot with UPCI beliefs and stories because that is my background (from birth to about 26yrs old). It's a unique experience that nobody can possibly understand unless they have been in and left. Exits from the UPC can get quite cultist and that is very damaging and traumatic for people and families. It makes sense that if you were never UPC (or are still in and have never left), you don't get my channel. Unless you've left, you don't really know what your group is capable of. It's one of those things where "If you know, you know". As a man, you can't fully understand the complexity and damage growing up in it as a female can do to someone. Feeling angry over living with constant unnecessary guilt, abusive treatment and injustice is not bitterness. It's a normal human reaction. It's healthy to talk these things through and for those who left or are in the process of leaving and are dealing with hateful comments and even shunning, hearing other people's stories can be very comforting. I too have healed, but this channel is helping others who are still processing things. I've never said anything against the people in the UPC, I love them and my heart hurts for them. As Carolyne so well put it, bearing the weight of feeling like you have to be good enough to earn your own salvation is a heavy load to carry. The teachings of the organization (as well as the leadership) do deserve to be critiqued when they step away from proper scriptural context. They are hurting people, their own people (I used to be one)...and I don't think it's right. Some things need to be said out loud. If this channel doesn't resonate with you, that's ok. Everything is not for everybody.
If you left because of burn out, legalism, leadership abuse etc etc I can understand the reason. If people leave & trash the doctrine of God then that's another reason which is probably going to go bad with you
YOU'RE NOT SAVED BY GOING TO CHURCH, READING THE BIBLE, BEING NICE, TITHING OFFERINGS SPEAKING IN TONGUES, PREACHING TEACHING, OR BY ASKING JESUS INTO YOUR HEART... YOU ARE SAVED BY REPENTING OF YOUR SINS AND LIVING THE WORD OF GOD AND ABIDING IN IT... UNLESS YOU'RE BORN AGAIN YOU WILL NEVER SEE JESUS. INSTEAD OF TRYING TO TEACH OTHERS TEACH YOURSELVES, REPENT FIND A GOOD BIBLE-BELIEVING CHURCH AND CONGREGATE LIKE ALL BORN-AGAIN CHRISTIANS.
You err not knowing or understanding the scriptures. Considering the doctrine from a carnal perspective and fleshly logic.. I feel pressure?? Mature Christian's aren't pressured for they walk with God. Immature Christians feel pressure to fit in.
You missed the entire point and I wonder at what kind of human you are if you never feel pressure from people? I would say that immature Christians are quick to judge situations they don't fully understand, instead of listening to learn (even if you disagree on some things). Even people who walk with God can feel pressured. We're still people.
@@ResponsibleFaith correct me if I'm wrong is your channel not based on pronouncing judgment on said organization UPCI?? "We can't speak out of both sides of our mouth" is the old saying..
@@ResponsibleFaith as far as pressure the trials in my life have taught me to endure pressure. I feel pressure I just keep my eyes on Jesus Christ. And do not allow my actions to be governed by said pressure.
Allow me to correct you, this channel is to encourage people to take responsibility for their own faith (hence the name Responsible Faith), not simply believing everything they're told, but studying scripture for themselves. I do address teachings that I believe to be oppressive and unbiblical for the sake of those who have been manipulated by them. The secondary focus of this channel is spiritual abuse. The main reason the UPC features so heavily in some of my topical videos as well as the exit stories is because that is my background. It is not 'against' the UPC, it is 'for' those who have left and are struggling with recovering from spiritually abusive situations or doctrinal questions. I point people to Jesus and offer support. If you're firmly UPC, I can see why my content doesn't resonate with you...it's not for you.
@@ResponsibleFaith I'm not firmly anything but Jesus Christ. As far as correction okay..can you be corrected? Or is it your way or the highway? You are no different than those you are calling out you cling to your perspective. If it's not to bash the UPC than your content disagrees with your stated intent.. your body language such as eye rolling, condescending comments, mocking gestures regarding certain policies the UPCI holds makes you no different than them.. you're just the flip side of the coin.
I appreciate the dialogue but please do not group all into the same group these fine folks were involved with. A good example is the group of Pentecostal folks in Tennessee that handle snakes. Not all are the same. I wonder if this fine young couple would move out of that area to a different location, would they feel the same. I think Paul may have encountered similar situations during his missionary experience.
They are speaking specifically of "The United Pentecostal Church International" (not all Pentecostals). While of course there are good/kind/sincere people in every group (including the UPC), a works-based belief system and a controlling dynamic is widespread within much of the UPCI. Enough so that we believe it needs to be addressed, as it is doing much harm to the gospel of Christ, as well as to individual people through false teaching and spiritual abuse in various congregations. This video stands to comfort/encourage those who have left, as it is an incredibly painful, toxic experience in many cases. Jeremy and Carolyne actually had a pretty peaceful exit compared to many people I've spoken with who have exited the UPCI. I have a few people from serpent handling churches in Appalachia who have reached out to me and follow my channel (because of similarities in a works based mindset), and I can tell you, they too have sincere people...but you can be sincerely wrong. Recreating the gospel and a toxic environment for your saints with the best of intentions, is still a false gospel. Many times, that intention is to hold to granddaddy's traditions/legacy. Well, what if granddaddy was wrong? Maybe his uneducated understanding of scripture was incomplete? There's a humility in stepping outside of traditions you have long held and examining them against scripture and against Christian orthodoxy.
Hello, Robert. As DJ already explained, we came out of the UPCI. My wife was raised in the WV district and I was raised in the FL District. We also fellowshipped with many WPF and ALJC churches and went to their camp meetings and revivals as well. By the grace of God I had never ventured into a snake-handling church. But we have had snake-handlers visit our churches. Sincere people, sure. But also as DJ stated, they are sincerely wrong. My prayer is that more people would get acquainted with the scriptures and the gospel of our Lord Jesus.
The great falling away are churches that are very Liberal/ are pro-Abortion of the Innocent Babies,Same sex marriage approval/ Socialistic One World Religion mentality/that Jesus is not God/ transgenderism etc. that’s Apostate
God bless you. I'm not UPCI and I do not agree with some of there ways and teachings, but I also don't believe you have integrity with scripture either. Its ok to give your reasons of why you left religion. But stop trying to teach the word of God. That is where you go wrong.
I think when all your doing is bashing any organization it’s not a positive ministry. The Bible does call for Christians to come out and be separate from the world. So to bash the UPCI for having standards is just mean spirited. As far as does the UPCI have problems, every church has problems. There are imperfect people in every church organization. But you seem to have a specific axe to grind with this specific one. If your message was how to be saved or about God’s love I’d have more respect. Instead this is just hate toward the UPCI and an attempt to pull people out of the church.
Abuse is not positive, leaving a controlling environment is not positive, never having assurance of salvation is not positive. This channel is not directed at UPC people, but toward people who have left and are struggling, people who have been driven out by abuse and hopelessness, people who have questioned some of their teachings in light of scripture. You're right, we are called to be separate...but nowhere in scripture is that separation defined by a clothing uniform or unique outward look. Holiness is not that shallow. If this channel doesn't resonate with you, you are likely not the intended audience. Not everything resonates with everyone. There are channels out there that are evangelistic, this one happens to deal with spiritual abuse and false teachings.
Wow, listening to you three and your judging of other people, is showing your lack of fruits. You need to spend more time with your heavenly Father and attend whatever type of church you feel comfortable.
Blah blah blah ! What do you think Pentecostal preachers do to anybody whose not pentecostal . They don’t call a Baptist their brother or sister . They are first class bashers
I've noticed too that UPC members are very offended by people voicing points they disagree with to the point of anger and let's not leave out harsh judgement towards those who oppose certain points of belief. One of the goals of the UPC is spiritual blackmail if your not like them your of the world or backslidden you don't have the truth these are all fear tactics, a type of spiritual abuse. UPC is cloning members to stay true to the UPC organization not true to God this in itself is idol worship.
Here’s what I’ve got so far from your blogs. Don’t go to church, don’t pay your tithes, very little prayer, look anyway you want, television or movies and Nostradamus of reading your bible. Have you ever tried a regular Pentecostal church? I just want to make it to heaven and if I keep watching your shows, I think I would be serving satan soon instead of living for Jesus. I believe you mean well but unless you turn your blogs into how we can live for God then I think you will do more harm than good. Just my opinion. God Bless
You seem to be taking everything I say to the absolute extreme. I've never said "don't go to church", but I have said that for various reasons some people cannot/do not and they can find different ways to fellowship and worship God and that's ok. I've never said "don't tithe", I don't care how much money people choose to give to their churches but I did say that mandatory tithing is not a Biblical requirement for Christians. I'm right about that. This brings relief to low income people who cannot afford to give 10% are are terrified they are "robbing God" and "under a curse". I've never said lay off the praying, that's just ridiculous (you made that up). I've never said "look any way you want", I have said that the only "rule" we were given in scripture is to dress modestly and respectably. In fact, I believe I said to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit on that matter. I've never really mentioned TV or movies in a positive or negative light. I'm actually pretty careful what I watch. My constant advice is study and read the Bible. I have tried a regular Pentecostal church and while it worked for many of the people who attended, it didn't work for everyone. I want you to make it to heaven as well, the only way you can do that is through faith in Christ. If you feel that my vlogs are going to have you serving Satan soon then you seem to be very extreme in your reactions, but I would encourage you not to watch anymore. My channel does not specifically address "How we can live for God" (although I feel like I touch on that in almost every video). If that's what you are looking for, there are other wonderful channels you could watch on UA-cam. That's a great topic but this channel deals with false teaching (legalism) and spiritual abuse. Anything taught, with no scriptural backing, that has needlessly weighed people down, I address. Believe it or not, I want to see people follow Christ, that's why I'm trying to remove some of the needless obstacles.
@@ResponsibleFaith maybe I took it wrong about some of the things I said and I’m sorry about that. I’m a fairly new convert and watching your shows really got me to thinking about not going to church or paying tithes. It was probably the devil getting in my head. I think your very good at what you do and I know exactly what your talking about since I was raised UPC as a kid. I left the church but came back about 3 years ago to a Pentecostal church. I really feel the presence of God in that church or I wouldn’t be going. Again, I’m sorry about accusing you of those things. God Bless
No problem, if you misunderstood what I was saying I appreciate having the opportunity to clarify it a bit for you. I'm glad you've found a good church that you enjoy. I hope you have someone you can run these things by (especially as a new convert), I think discipleship is important. It's possible you might even benefit from a personal Bible Study. Maybe a good Christian you know could teach you one. It's something that can help you grow spiritually and if you can't find one, there are great teachers here on UA-cam you could watch to learn. Mike Winger is a good one, so are Alisa Childers and Melissa Dougherty. You might also enjoy some of these videos: The book of John (read word for word and acted out). It's beautiful: ua-cam.com/video/47OkuvT5JFo/v-deo.html This is a great sermon on the grace of God: ua-cam.com/video/11qLUcvqPIM/v-deo.html A Christian series on the New Testament, if you haven't seen it yet called The Chosen: ua-cam.com/video/craeyJdrCsE/v-deo.html
Please let me add something here. And I say this with an open mind, open heart and arms with love. Just because someone leaves upci, aljc, or any other apostolic church, or any other denomination does not mean they are backslid!! I left upc I did not leave God nor has he forsaken me either. Please take the blinders off your own eyes before you point fingers at anyone. And I will go as far as to say: I know for a fact God is not happy when we judge one another. And if you still think we're backsliding, then shouldn't you be fasting and praying for us v. Judging? I pray the gracious Lord will give you understanding and discernment before throwing darts at fellow Believers. 🙏
@kennethrinicker3200 you are a perfect example of an abusive predator in God's name. Why are you even here commenting, oh wait I know the answer ...to condemn and judge people you don't know. How "christian" of you. Another brainwashed UPC member hurting people in the name of God.
Oh my goodness the "red carpet event" comment shook me bc I know exactly what they mean! Short story: I remember I was about 19 years old...so 7 years ago attending a senior church camp service and getting all dressed up bc you know...its a red carpet event after all. And during the service my mind started to wonder.....and I began to realize how self righteous the whole thing was...including my own feelings toward it. So I had to go outside and get some old clothes out of my car and change bc I was convicted of what I had playing a part in.
I totally agree. Even as a guy growing up in upc from the late 70s until 2012.
The youth camps, ralleys and especially general conference it was definitely like the red carpet. I felt so pressured keeping up with the latest trends within men's fashions suits, ties, even jeans.
And the girls had the highest hairdos, some of the dresses were almost like modest prom dresses if you please.
Looking back, I think 🤔 what foolishness we were spending so much time and money on clothes, and even with cars.
I ensured I didn't drive anything older than 3 years old.
And I noticed it several times, so many young people felt so out of place because their parents didn't have the $$$ to buy the latest trends, or $$ for camp, conferences etc.
Now, I am nondenominational and I am comfortable attending and have so much liberty knowing I can wear jeans and a nice polo. Our pastor now is in jeans and nice button down.
You would never see a upci minister preach in jeans on a Sunday. God forbid!!!
They preach modesty in dress yet they spend $$$ and more $$$ on suits, shoes, fancy clothes. Why???
That has nothing to do with Christianity and salvation.
Excellent and loving people within the Apostolic churches and I still have close friends who attend. But for me, It was time for me to go and I have close close relationship with Jesus! And I pray constantly 🙏.
I am thankful for my heritage but I know the Lord has moved me into another path. Heaven still the destiny just a different road.
Glory to God. This testimony helps those of us who are not leaving due to abuse. My family is leaving for doctrinal issues. The more we studied the clearer God's word became. Still, there's doubt bc of the good people we are leaving behind. This video helped to confirm that ultimately what matters is God's word, not the organization.
Right. For us we didn't exactly recognize the abuse until after we left and looked back on some experiences. It was very hard to find other testimonials on youtube of people that left because of the doctrine. Hopefully this will help others. Thank you for the encouraging words.
"How can you possess fruit of a spirit that you don't have." BOOM! This was probably the first question that came through my mind and it opened the floodgates of other questions that followed. Praise God that I can now know Jesus truly and embrace the full and free gift of salvation through Him!
That was one of my favorite parts too AJ. It took me back to when I was a teen. I knew Christians who had different doctrine than we did (UPC) and would not have been considered saved, who were walking in the fruit of the Spirit. On the flip side of that...many of the loudest proudest tongue talkers I knew (supposedly an overflow of the Spirit) had none. It didn't make any sense to me and was one of the major starting points for my questions as well.
What movement is he in now..just curious
@@ResponsibleFaith that principle could be applied to any church. Do you really believe hypocrites only exist in the UPCI?
Great video! I really enjoyed it. There were some really good points made. One was how so many oneness people, including pastors, will not dare to actually study some of these subjects for themselves. They bought into UPCI doctrine - not bible doctrine. Another thing that stood out was how effective the UPCI is in instilling the "authority" of the "pastor" aka "the man of God" in people's mind. When you distance yourself from this movement and look back on it, it is terrifying how effective they are at putting systems in place for the purpose of controling people.
Also a big thank you to this young couple for having the courage to give this testimony.
Beautiful testimony! Gives me great courage. I was born and raised in UPC and have questions my entire life that I was scared to ask because I knew what the reaction would be. I’m diligently studying and finding those answers I knew existed. God is good!
Thank you Deanna Jo for another great and encouraging video. Thank you Jeremey and Carolyne for sharing your story. Praise God you were able to "study your way out".
I’m a new subscriber. This is such a true ministry. I too grew up very strict. My dad took us to several churches and some were UPC. We didn’t have a tv. We couldn’t listen to the radio or secular music. We couldn’t even wear name brand clothes because that was worldly. I rebelled when I got away from my dad and went kind of wild. When I was 20 I repented and truly gave my life to Christ. I am the minister of music at a Baptist church now. No one speaks in tongues, but the Spirit of God is definitely working and changing lives at our church. I realize that the true Church can be found in many different denominations which are man made. The true church are those who have His Spirit, and some of those have never spoke in tongues. Thank you for your courage to do what the Lord has called you to do. God is using you, probably more than you know.
Thank you!
According to the book of Revelation/The True Church Of The Living GOD are those whose Robes are Wash in the Blood Of The Lamb...Just dialoguing
I understand not wanting to feel alone, rejected, or forgotten but when God opened my eyes to the unscriptural teaching it was more a concern of , how can I remain and work for God in this situation for I'm leading more into captivity not leading them to liberation in Christ. It was the hardest thing to do, walk away and follow Christ after 40 years in UPCI. We are 5 years following God and not following dogma. It's not been easy but I'd rather follow God in faith then follow man in traditional obedience that's a salvation issue, at least I think so , or at least a relief from a heavy burden God never required of me.
I left the UPC when 23. I've been out for 24 years now. I had been in "the church" since I was 8. I took several months to search the scriptures after I left cause I had to know what God said instead of what I had been brainwashed into believing. When grace was revealed to me it was the best day of my life. No more fear or condemnation. No more spiritual abuse. It was bad in that denomination.
Same here! The day I understood grace was the best day of my life too! The stress/pressure was off and I looked at Jesus and his sacrifice on the cross so much differently. ❤️
What a great testimony ❤️ thanks for sharing. It's so hard to leave a denomination who thinks their way is the only way and yet it seems like this couple did it in the most appropriate, kind, and non-bitter way.
Thank you. That was the goal. Keep us in prayer. May God bless and keep you!
The best thing ever said to me, “You are leaving an organization you are not leaving God.” I attended JCM and was an AIMer. I am now an ordained pastor in another organization. So happy to find God’s Grace and love!
I left the church in 1996
To this day I have a special page in my prayer journal 🙏 to forgive my former pastor bc he called my son ugly behind the pulpit. This kind of behavior is beyond abusive. Its down right evil! These videos are very helpful. I want to Thank you for exposing them. Yall are coping alot better then I did at that time. Again, Thank you so much.
I'm sorry your ex pastor was so abusive and hateful. It's one thing when someone hurts us, but when they go after our kids...mama bear comes out! I totally understand how difficult it would be to deal with that. I'm glad you had the courage to leave that church. Sadly, pulpits attract narcissists. If you look it up, it's one of the top 10 professions (clergy) listed for narcissists and psychopaths due to the instant admiration and status that comes with the job (narcissistic supply). I've seen so many pastors who are just cold, harsh and don't care about people at all. I think it's more prevalent in evangelical churches as well because they pay better and almost commit idolatry in the way they celebrate their pastors. Unfortunately they end up with a lot of pulpit bullies as a result.
Good morning!!!
Yes it's 4:22 AM May 21. Couldn't sleep so I watch your videos.
I would like to say this video has been my all time favorite thus far. This young couple has so much love and compassion for God. And the way they expressed and shared their transition out of the Apostolic church was heartfelt and truly sincere. I did not here judgement,, anger or bitterness. It was brought to the table with understanding, forgiveness and love.
As a former upci member I know exactly where they are coming from. And no......not a 4-5-6th generation pentecostal here. I attended from age 10- until about 48-49. I am now nondenominational and feel so much liberty in God.
Our church now is a Holy Ghost Spirit filled church. And honestly..... I am closer to God then I ever been.
I am now living for God out of Love and conviction not for man and condemnation. Having a Real Relationship with Jesus is the key v. having religion.
I appreciate your program
Thank you, I'm glad you enjoyed it. They are a wonderful young couple.
You can tell who studies their Bibles and who doesnt... the ones that don't are usually the ones being deceived. I was one of them. Now I get in the Word and ask Holy Spirit to lead me into all truth Nd give me understanding...will never look back! Left this cult and feel so free and loved by God.
What a blessing thank you for your vids God bless you and your family. Happy new year!!!
Thank you, Happy new year to you and your family as well!
Great interview! And a wonderful couple! Thanks.
@@ws775 Thank you!
Sounds almost like my exit. Still praying my wife sees the error one day and so many others. Praise God!
Be patient, pray for her, cover her with love and try with wisdom to take her far away from this cult… even if you have to move for it. My wife started to open her eyes almost 2 year after me during this time she almost divorced from me but God has been gracious to us and today by his grace we are stronger than we have ever been.
Love your site. I was adopted and brought up in this horrific church.. When the Lord did get me out I was so confused so brain washed. I was even told to leave my husband as well. Its about totally control and if you could truly see past the smiles etc. You would find many abusive homes that go to this church. Thank.God people are seeing the truth before its to late and getting True Salvation. I thought I was saved at a young age because I did their three step program of works. When I think about it now I almost could cry that Jesus seen my love for Him was pure but I was not even saved and if I would have died I would have split hell wide open. I think about the many souls who came each night to the altar but never got the spoke in tongues and gave up and never came back. I.wonder if they thought themselves to bad for God to save because they did not do it the UPCI way. Lots of blood will be on many hands come judgment day.
I was in a long distant relationship with a girl who is currently still in a very small UPCI church in California. At the time, I didn't know that she was involved in this "church" but interacting with her, red flags kept popping up. Finally, things ended between us when the pastor wanted to talk to me after she confessed to them she was dating outside the church. On the phone with this man, i noticed A) he was full of himself and B) he didn't really like it when I asked question. Im assuming the pastor and his wife thought I was a naive convert (not knowing my background in apologistics). So they butted in and convinced her to cut ties with me two days later. I'm still praying for her. I can tell she's genuinely on the quest for truth.
This was a lot more interesting to me than the discussions that center around the standards. The theology is so much more important.
I definitely agree that the theology is the most important. To be fair though, it is often the little questions about the standards which makes people realize that not everything they're being taught is in scripture. From there many have the courage to go on and confront the more important doctrinal positions. I also feel that the fact that you're a man makes the standards seem like a smaller issue to you than they really are, as they wouldn't affect you as much. As a woman who grew up in the movement, I can't even begin to tell you how deeply the standards and the fear and shame associated with them impacts and damages young women (self esteem, guilt and shame for liking normal things, missing out on certain activities/jobs because you can't dress appropriately, feeling like you're constantly being monitored and judged by your outward appearance, feeling hopeless and that you'll never measure up, placing our faith in things that can't save us, and even creating spiritual pride...).
The standards teachings ARE part of their theology.
I’m guessing by your name that you are a man. Because of that, the standards don’t apply to you as much - which I completely understand. It is so important to me, as a woman, to here others validate my feelings on standards. I was raised that it was a part of our theology and that standards were a heaven or hell issue.
This brother is describing exactly what people suggested about us (a little over the 48 minute mark), ..
“You must have never truly receive the revelation of truth.”
Yes we heard that one a few times.
Even though we lived it, taught it, bought the tee shirt (even wrote Bible studies and a book about it), people still suggested that we never actually came to the full revelation, otherwise we would not have turned from it.
Ironically the same churches are still using my Bible studies foe their discipleship courses for teaching new converts. So I guess I must have understood well enough to drag others into it 🤷🏻♂️
It's mind-boggling to say the least.
I left the UPC last March after 18 years. Recovery and study are like facing giants.
I still hold the values that I have studied, not just told.
In the end....I felt like I was Cain and rejected by God. I was so very near suicide and no one knew. I cried out to God to leave th 99 to find me. He sent 3 separate people before I finally saw His leading.
Excellent, preach it brother. Being right with God trumps position and post. Blessings to you and your family 🙏🙏🙏💜👍🌄
I think there is teaching needed on tongues. Paul said there are diversities of tongues. Some attempt to say that when you speak in tongues that it has to be spoken to a person in their native tongue only. That does happen but there are still other operations of tongues. There is a tongue spoken to the church that is followed by an interpretation. There is also the unknown tongue when you do not speak to men but to God. So this belief that it can only be the way done in Acts 2 is in error. It also doesn’t say that when they spoke in tongues in Acts 2 that they knew what they were saying. Only those who heard what was being said understood. It’s not about learning a language as some try to teach.
Very well said
Where does it say there are diversities of tongues? I don't believe it says that at all. In Corinthians it says there are diversities in GIFTS. Tongues being one of the gifts.
This is sad I was raised in the UPCI and was in and out of church many times,and tried many religions but I came back and there is nothing that can compare to it and I will never leave it.
I hope you're meaning that nothing can compare to Him and you will never leave Him. The UPC is not the way, Jesus is. I'm glad you've found your way back to faith.
The UPC is not going to save you only Jesus Christ
Responsible Faith , Thank you for the UA-cam interviews that you have been doing . I have been sharing them on my Blog . There are many people who want to leave the UPCI who are afraid to leave and there are many people who have left and are not sure where to go to church due to having been heavily indoctrinated . I was shocked recently to read a Facebook post of a man whom I was in my UPC with many years ago .He said that Jesus Christ was telling the Pharisees that if they do not believe that Jesus Christ is God the Father incarnate , that they would die in their sins . He said that He was not talking about God the Son , the second person of a non existent Trinity .It is one thing to not believe in the doctrine of the Trinity but it is deplorablet to say that Jesus Christ was not saying that unless they believe that He is the Son of God , they would die in their sins . Someone has to be deceived to not understand that Jesus Christ Himself indicated during His earthly ministry , that Salvation is through faith in the Son of God .The man gives weekly Bible studies and has been in the church for over 34 years and people in that congregation actually think that he is very zealous for Bible truth . Jeremy and Carolyne's story is definitely reality that needs to be heard . One reason why I share UA-cam videos on my Blog is so that many people will see that my Blog is not all about me and what I believe . If anyone is interested , the link to my Blog is pfupandsop.blogspot.com
Thanks for sharing Bill.
I love how this couple said “their personal conviction”…thank you. The church I’m currently in, the pastor actually said over the pulpit, “you must have the same convictions as me”. I knew I should’ve left then(I started going March 2021). Now, I’ve stayed out of my own fear, I guess.I got the Holy Ghost when I was 20(my physical birth and spiritual birth are 1 day apart. I’ll be 50 this year). I’m not new to this in any way. When you sit under a pastor for more than 1/2 your life and then sit under another that teaches/preaches something different, it causes some thought to enter your mind. At least for me it does. That’s where I struggle. I wasn’t “manipulated” into receiving the Holy Ghost or “speaking in tongues”. How can one be “manipulated” into receiving it? I hear over the pulpit all the time “if anyone leaves these doors, you’re to have NO contact with them”. If parents have kids, don’t contact them(pray for them). If kids have parents, don’t associate with them(pray for them). You get my drift. We are to have NO relationship with those who choose to leave. You’re not supposed to go out of your way to associate yourself with a backslider. Same goes for family who’ve never even been in “church”. Jeremy, that sounds like what I’m about to go through. Again, my husband has never even been “in church”. My question to this couple: were any messages preached over the pulpit directed towards y’all leaving?
There were not any sermon preached from the pulpit directed to our decision to leave that I know of. I did not drag this decision out. My wife and I prayed and studied for about 8 months. When we were convinced to leave it was at that time that we went to our Pastor and told them and that was the conversation you hear about in the video. We did not attend church after that conversation. So, he may very well have preached on us leaving, but I cannot say for certain.
Amen great testimony.
Thank you!
I grew up in a holiness church that adhered to outward holiness standards but it was not Pentecostal. It was actually the Pilgrim Holiness denomination. My family joined the Assemblies of God when I was 14 which is a Pentecostal denomination but not UPCI or Apostolic. What does the UPCI say about other Pentecostal groups? They have no problem using our worship songs 😂
Hi there,
Actually, most of the UPC music is original from with the upc realm. So many of familiar pentecostal music has been written by upc or former upc members.
I'll list a few here and you can check them out on you tube. Please note, most are no longer upc and there are still a few they do attend.
Most popular writer and musician has to be Lanny Wolfe, Geron Davis who wrote Holy Ground, and In the Presence of Jehovah.
Mark and Lori Carouthers, Wayne Goodine, Phillips Craig and Dean were raised in upc and each of them now pastor a nondenominational church. Vicki Yohe' was a power house in music in the upci. I know she still tours and I am thinking she is nondenominational not sure though. Becky Fender
The following are still upc and excellent song writers and musicians very anointed.
Shara McKee, Sharon Walker, Vonnie Lopez, Nancy Grandquist. Mark Condon, Tim Pedigo, Terry Wilbanks Singers, Atlanta West Pentecostal Church Choir, Mattoon Youth Choir.
I am no longer upc/ apostolic but I can HONESTLY SAY.... No one can touch their music and worship. That is what I miss the most leaving upc.
Also look up Indiana Bible College IBC PRAISE and Gateway College of Evangelism. Both are upci Bible colleges and have excellent music.
@@darwinapala960 the problem I found, and I was 16 yrs in music ministry, is that they worship their own worship.
I have recently left the Apostolic church, not because of the teachings, but because my knee length hair was giving me terrible migraines. I had dealt with it for many years, and as they worsened, I had my hair cut. I had also had to go back to work in a hospital( psychiatric units), and wearing skirts for 4 years was immodest at times. I began to wonder why? Why does God expect me to try to be covered in a skirt, when I was literally having to straddle patients to await injections.. I had always been told that if I cut my hair, Jesus would leave me immediately. I prayed about it, and hesitated for years, and finally did it. I felt absolutely no spiritual difference. I began wearing scrub pants to work and felt absolutely no spiritual difference. I decided to re-pierce my ears just because I was already out in the world, and I might as well look prettier, the same, no difference. I am not comfortable enough to wear pants outside of work. I have listened to the debates concerning oneness versus Trinity and still don’t see the Trinity. Therefore, I am not attending church. I will not be welcomed in any of my past Penecostal churches, because I am now considered a back slider as you well know, but the oneness doctrine has been ingrained in me since I was a little girl and I am 53 ..Well, unless I pray back through ha ha. I can’t really explain it, but I feel such a sense of freedom. I was always told that if you were in the world wearing worldly things, then you were bound, but I have to say that since I am out of the church, I am feeling freedom. Is there any scriptural material that you could recommend? I appreciate your openness, this video really blessed me. My FB is Jo Ellen McNair. Please reach out to me if you can help in anyway. Blessings to you.!!
As a retired health care worker I am curious if your migraines went away or improved after cutting your hair? I have heard stories about headaches or backaches being caused by the weight of heavy hair.
Loved this video! I could relate so much to Carolyne and not being fancy enough (roll eyes lol)
Loved watching this. ♥️
Yes, they did a great job! I see a strong resemblance between you and the lady in this video. 😉 lol
@@ResponsibleFaith now if only I had her courage... 😂
He should put together a study like the one that we used to teach to convert people, Search for Truth, when we were in the organization.
Yea that bible study is un biblical
Fall in love with the word of God . Be obedient to the scriptures and submit yourselves unto the man of Gods that he may give an account with joy and not sorrow. To many live for organizations and not God. Organization is a good thing. Following the Apostles doctrine is the only way (keys to the kingdom) .
Jesus is the way (Acts 4:12).
This article might help you understand the idea of a "man of God" giving an "account with joy and not sorrow".
www.wadeburleson.org/2020/02/remember-them-who-rule-over-you-and.html
Love this!
Thank you for your videos. They are very informative.
John macarthur and RC sproul, thats who i first listened too when i left the Org.
Yes, they do have some good basic teaching on salvation through faith...although I cannot stomach John MacArthur's views on women nor his arrogant attitude (it reminds me a lot of what we left). That being said, I have enjoyed a few of his sermons. It's great to be at a place where we can listen to teachings, compare them with scripture and take the meat and throw away the bones. Freedom is a wonderful thing.
You Tubes videos out on MacArthur explaining that it’s ok for a Christian to take the mark of the beast and still go to Heaven/that’s not what King Jesus said “It won’t be forgiven in this life time nor the next to come” why? That’s the ultimate blasphemy against Holy Spirit...Just dialoguing
The I’m Pentecostal - I’m saved -
Buttttt .... I’m only saved by the skin of my teeth !
Living in constant fear and condemnation.
Until “””” one day you realize the God you pray to alone : isn’t the same God they preach .
And now truth comes in ,,, and now your free from the burdens of man .
That’s an excuse people who want to believe in God but serve him on their own terms say. The Bible says God is faithful to forgive us if we repent so where does the “saved by the skin of my teeth” or live in fear come from.
Where do I begin to study?
Hi I’m from Houston Tx. I love my life with out church 🤭 lol I still believe in God though. I like your videos 👍
A question was asked about why it mattered what generation you are. It matters because, if you're leaving or thinking about leaving, you're not just leaving a brick and mortar building or a denomination, you're leaving tradition. You're leaving family. That family may think as mine that their way is the only way. My mother told me to my face that I have the devil in me. That's generational religion.
Yes, of course I do understand that. I guess I was mentioning it more in relation to hearing many people who are still in and are happy to remain, almost brag about what generation they are (the more the better). It's usually presented as almost a pedigree of sorts. It's a weird culture for sure.
It certainly is more complicated to leave when your entire family has been embedded in this movement for generations (mine was too).
@@ResponsibleFaith I'm sorry. I hope you weren't thinking that I posted that out of anger. I was born and raised (3rd generation myself) as a UPCI preachers kid. I'm 50 years old and been "out" of the meetings for 23 years. Though I never faced some of the more aggregious offenses I've heard since finding your channel, I'm just coming now getting down to the pain and resentment that I feel. I feel guilt for feeling those things.
Not at all, I just figured you were explaining from your perspective. There's nothing wrong with sorting through our feelings (even the negative ones) in regards to our past in the UPC. God gave us our emotions and we can't heal unless we face them head on and sort through the pain/trauma behind them, I wish you peace on this journey...it's certainly not always easy.
I just left the UPC I was in it for 8 weeks
All organizations have issues but you have to be under Godly authority that’s Bible
Yes all organizations do have issues, and who said they are not under godly authority? The UPC is just a denomination sir.
Serve no man! Blessings
What about when Paul talks about praying in the Spirit to edify himself with God and that he's glad he does it more than anyone else? I don't believe we should throw out the real because we're afraid of the false.. what you think? Honest Question... I've never been upci
Paul gives clear instruction in the previous chapters that the gifts are never for edifying one's self but rather the çhurch assembly. These who were showing in an unknown tongue were just being the air, no one was being edified. The gifts are always to minister to others. We see that understanding with clarity when reading the entirety of 1 Corinthians chapters 12-14.
One thing that stands out to me is Carolyne has a very distinct aura of the Lord around her,
upon her, almost a glowing aura around her. Not everyone has that. She is covered by prayers of her family is my general impression.
She is a strong Christian herself, but if you sense something different about her it could be the fact that she's very pregnant in this video.
@@ResponsibleFaith She has a covering of the Lord on her. I see like a faint white aura glow around her, it's about an inch or two wide. I see it on some people. Two people that stand out in my mind with that same aura are my pastor has it on her, evangelist Josh Herring has it.
I'm curious if you assume the white aura you see is because of " the prayers of her family" because they are UPC? If I believed someone to have a strong presence of God over their life, I'd assume it was their own prayer life and closeness with God that caused it. Why was your first thought that it was because of her family?
@@ResponsibleFaith No not necessarily that they are UPC. The pastor I was referring to was PAW
The PAW is very similar in beliefs to the UPC.
The bible in Ecclesiastes 3:7 b, States, " there is a time to speak and a time to be silent. If the "church" would "SHUT UP!!" for 5 mins a just listen. You don't have to agree. JUST LISTEN, TO WHAT IS BEING SAID! Ya wonder why people leave, dont want anything to do with God or the church. Your comments which are your actions are proving to her, and everybody else left you are proving that they mad the correct decisions. Do you all know we all have to give an account for we we say, what we do, how we act. In the scriptures, " In that great and terrible day. They will say, Lord, Lord didn't we prophesy in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, heal the sick in Your name. He will say "Depart from me I never knew you. That scripture is talking about you, Pentecostals, you charismatics, its referring to us. Jesus is talking about you all.
This denomination makes fun of people and is so self absorbed and self righteous. Jesus warned to beware of the leaven (sin) of the Sadducess and pharisees. What is that leaven, self absorbed and self righteousness, thinking you are better than others because of the doctrine and standards. You hurt people and gaslight them. Ministers who have a Napoleon complex, and congregation that act like Nazis. Your ignorant,racist, homophobic, prejudiced, and inconsiderate of people. White wash tombs full of dead men's bones. You travel miles and miles to convert people and make them 10× worse than you.
Woe unto you. For the peoples cries have reached God. People have contemplated suicide, because of your inactions and actions. What is wrong with you people? Do you really think if Jesus shows up in your little Congregation He would be happy. The answer is No. You wouldn't even recognize your own savior. You people are sickening. You all really need to read, especially "secular" books on psychology and neurology. Most of you are homeschooled and have the equivalent to a 3rd grade education. You ride the short bus, and eat glue. A bunch of spiritual babies and toddlers still on ya mama's titties.
Judgement starts in the House of God. Remember we are walking tabernacles. I said what I said.
Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses use the generation lingo.
I was raised Lutheran until someone decided that we needed to become pentecostal. That's when life turned spiritually. The guilt, shame and condemnation was unbearable. I gave up and left the church. Years later I started to read my Bible without other voices. I thought I was reading herasy. Fast forward I've pretty much abandoned everything the pentecostal church taught me. My deconstruction has taken me much further than you. My understanding of the gospel is that it's better news for everyone than any church I'm aware represents.
I won't return to church. Can't think of a bigger waste of time.
It breaks my heart how guilty and shameful we were made to feel in pentecostalism. That's tormenting. I'm so glad you turned to your Bible. I turned to mine, too. The Lord is still teaching me, and HE is wonderful!!
It is crazy how many Lutherans I have met at my Mom’s Pentecostal church. I was raised in the Lutheran church attended Sunday school from cradle roll at 3 yrs old until I graduated high school was involved in all the youth programs. Received the Holy Spirit (not speaking in tongues) at Bible camp when I was in 8th grade. No one knew I had received the Holy Spirit other than myself and one of the counselors. It was a CoEd camp and we were having a singing around the camp fire one night and the Holy Spirit stepped on into my heart. I cannot put into words the peace that flooded over me and then tears of joy started pouring out of my eyes. I was on the outside edge of the group and no one around even knew anything had happened/changed. I didn’t make a peep. Across the fire from me was one of the counselors from the boys cabin and he saw the peace come over me and then the tears. He came around the fire to talk to me quietly (everyone else was still singing away and took no notice), he is the one that told me it was the Holy Spirit. I never did share it with anyone at camp because it was such an incredibly special moment between me and GOD! I knew there was a much deeper relationship to be had with The LORD that I would not find at the Lutheran church so I decided to go to my Mom’s church. Some of sermons/lessons moved and it was deeper than anything I had heard at my Lutheran church but…there are things that have always kept me from joining. One of them being that they told me I couldn’t have truly received the Holy Spirit when I was in 8th Grade because if I didn’t speak in tongues. I know with all my heart that I did and thought they had a lot of gall to tell me I didn’t, like they were the be all and end all! There are a lot of things I really like but my discernment has never let me commit. Their doctrine is so over powering and is more of a focus than saving souls. It is the HEART not the superficial things and the speaking false tongues.
So sorry this couple did not have a good mentor
When they had questions about doctrine!
John McArthur is against speaking in tounges
What about Acts 19 Paul said have you
Received the Holy Ghost since you believed!
I would be so careful not to be drawn
Away from God’s will!
Tongues is not the only evidence of the Holy Spirit . That’s foolish Pentecostalism . Jesus is not a Pentecostal !
True we are known for our fruits...Paul said but I speak in tongues more than ye all...The unknown tongue is for spiritual self edification in the Holy Ghost
Nothing wrong being different
This man is Very logical and truthful . Romans 8;28 All things work for good . He is a lot stronger and assured !
It is hard for me to believe being part of a upci church did nothing but terrible things for you.
If you watched the video you'd know that they had plenty of nice things to say about the UPC people and some nice things they learned and experienced there.
I know you know this the T word has and is the the great sacred cow in the church
It is! And it seems to be the one doctrine most of the groups/denominations can agree on.
I just want to try and clarify something about the formation of the upc. I hear people say their fourth and 5th generation. I think more of what they should say is that they are like 4th or fifth generation oneness Pentecostal Because the actual United Pentecostal Church was not formed until 1945 so if the young lady who is fifth generation, more than likely it is that whomever the first person was to be Pentecostal in her family was under the name oneness apostolic. Just a morsel to think about
Yes, I've always wondered about that too. If I count, I was 3rd generation (my grandparents and parents)...I'm not sure how anyone goes back much farther than that either. We've only got about 75 years to work with. It certainly is a matter of status in the UPC though.
I’m curious on what is doctrine to you, what is the word to you, like do you believe and teach holiness as God does, do you believe in separation? Should you not preach about hell? The issue on hair God said women shouldn’t cut there hair, I mean if you don’t agree because UPCI said so, that’s not the case, it’s the word of God. Please let me know what you believe the Word of God says pertaining to these things, and whether or not we should implement our own teachings over that of the Bible.
We should not hold doctrines of man above Gods word. We believe in holiness, practical holiness, we believe we are separated not by how we dress but rather we have been chosen, separated, marked, anointed, and set aside by The Holy Spirit for the work and glory of God. I would advise you too look at the historical context when reading the verses about hair. Notice the cultural application for the people of that day as well as the universal application we are to make today. Please, don't blindly follow after the holiness tradition. That is a tradition of men that people are teaching as if it were inspired by God. A violation of Matthew 15:9.
UPC is a doctrine of man. UPC throws out phrases that are NOT in the bible. Example "speaking in tongues is the initial evidence" prove it. It doesn't say that.
great story!
So what Baptism do u believe in??
one Lord one faith one baptism
Buy the truth and sell it not
All I see is division
The reality is no matter how terrible of an experience someone has with UPC or any other organization, that doesn't define everyone in that organization.. I'm personally not a member of the UPC I've seen things that have been mentioned on this channel within the organization, but to create a whole channel based around leaving and bad experiences with them kind of does sound like there is a little bitterness somewhere.. I'm not taking up for them, I've had a bad experience with them as well, but with the help of God I was able to move on and realize not everyone is the same, some organizations may have members that favor each other more than others, but I think continuing to only point out the bad and spotlight key points of bad experiences in this interview whenever they were saying a bunch of good things isn't good.. again I'm not a member of this organization before people think I'm taking up for them, it's better just to get better and move on, I'm sure there are people that don't like being labeled as something because of one person's or a group of peoples bad experiences with a person that probably didn't define what they stand for anyway. Just my thoughts.
The focus of this channel is not "leaving the UPCI", it's to encourage people to take responsibility for their own faith to ensure that they're not being taught things that are untrue. The secondary focus is spiritual abuse which happens in every church group, but seems to be more prevalent in more strict legalistic ones. I do deal a lot with UPCI beliefs and stories because that is my background (from birth to about 26yrs old). It's a unique experience that nobody can possibly understand unless they have been in and left. Exits from the UPC can get quite cultist and that is very damaging and traumatic for people and families. It makes sense that if you were never UPC (or are still in and have never left), you don't get my channel. Unless you've left, you don't really know what your group is capable of. It's one of those things where "If you know, you know".
As a man, you can't fully understand the complexity and damage growing up in it as a female can do to someone. Feeling angry over living with constant unnecessary guilt, abusive treatment and injustice is not bitterness. It's a normal human reaction. It's healthy to talk these things through and for those who left or are in the process of leaving and are dealing with hateful comments and even shunning, hearing other people's stories can be very comforting. I too have healed, but this channel is helping others who are still processing things. I've never said anything against the people in the UPC, I love them and my heart hurts for them. As Carolyne so well put it, bearing the weight of feeling like you have to be good enough to earn your own salvation is a heavy load to carry. The teachings of the organization (as well as the leadership) do deserve to be critiqued when they step away from proper scriptural context. They are hurting people, their own people (I used to be one)...and I don't think it's right. Some things need to be said out loud. If this channel doesn't resonate with you, that's ok. Everything is not for everybody.
If you left because of burn out, legalism, leadership abuse etc etc I can understand the reason. If people leave & trash the doctrine of God then that's another reason which is probably going to go bad with you
YOU'RE NOT SAVED BY GOING TO CHURCH, READING THE BIBLE, BEING NICE, TITHING OFFERINGS SPEAKING IN TONGUES, PREACHING TEACHING, OR BY ASKING JESUS INTO YOUR HEART... YOU ARE SAVED BY REPENTING OF YOUR SINS AND LIVING THE WORD OF GOD AND ABIDING IN IT... UNLESS YOU'RE BORN AGAIN YOU WILL NEVER SEE JESUS. INSTEAD OF TRYING TO TEACH OTHERS TEACH YOURSELVES, REPENT FIND A GOOD BIBLE-BELIEVING CHURCH AND CONGREGATE LIKE ALL BORN-AGAIN CHRISTIANS.
You err not knowing or understanding the scriptures. Considering the doctrine from a carnal perspective and fleshly logic..
I feel pressure?? Mature Christian's aren't pressured for they walk with God. Immature Christians feel pressure to fit in.
You missed the entire point and I wonder at what kind of human you are if you never feel pressure from people? I would say that immature Christians are quick to judge situations they don't fully understand, instead of listening to learn (even if you disagree on some things). Even people who walk with God can feel pressured. We're still people.
@@ResponsibleFaith correct me if I'm wrong is your channel not based on pronouncing judgment on said organization UPCI?? "We can't speak out of both sides of our mouth" is the old saying..
@@ResponsibleFaith as far as pressure the trials in my life have taught me to endure pressure. I feel pressure I just keep my eyes on Jesus Christ. And do not allow my actions to be governed by said pressure.
Allow me to correct you, this channel is to encourage people to take responsibility for their own faith (hence the name Responsible Faith), not simply believing everything they're told, but studying scripture for themselves. I do address teachings that I believe to be oppressive and unbiblical for the sake of those who have been manipulated by them. The secondary focus of this channel is spiritual abuse. The main reason the UPC features so heavily in some of my topical videos as well as the exit stories is because that is my background. It is not 'against' the UPC, it is 'for' those who have left and are struggling with recovering from spiritually abusive situations or doctrinal questions. I point people to Jesus and offer support. If you're firmly UPC, I can see why my content doesn't resonate with you...it's not for you.
@@ResponsibleFaith I'm not firmly anything but Jesus Christ. As far as correction okay..can you be corrected? Or is it your way or the highway? You are no different than those you are calling out you cling to your perspective. If it's not to bash the UPC than your content disagrees with your stated intent.. your body language such as eye rolling, condescending comments, mocking gestures regarding certain policies the UPCI holds makes you no different than them.. you're just the flip side of the coin.
I appreciate the dialogue but please do not group all into the same group these fine folks were involved with. A good example is the group of Pentecostal folks in Tennessee that handle snakes. Not all are the same. I wonder if this fine young couple would move out of that area to a different location, would they feel the same. I think Paul may have encountered similar situations during his missionary experience.
They are speaking specifically of "The United Pentecostal Church International" (not all Pentecostals). While of course there are good/kind/sincere people in every group (including the UPC), a works-based belief system and a controlling dynamic is widespread within much of the UPCI. Enough so that we believe it needs to be addressed, as it is doing much harm to the gospel of Christ, as well as to individual people through false teaching and spiritual abuse in various congregations. This video stands to comfort/encourage those who have left, as it is an incredibly painful, toxic experience in many cases. Jeremy and Carolyne actually had a pretty peaceful exit compared to many people I've spoken with who have exited the UPCI.
I have a few people from serpent handling churches in Appalachia who have reached out to me and follow my channel (because of similarities in a works based mindset), and I can tell you, they too have sincere people...but you can be sincerely wrong. Recreating the gospel and a toxic environment for your saints with the best of intentions, is still a false gospel. Many times, that intention is to hold to granddaddy's traditions/legacy. Well, what if granddaddy was wrong? Maybe his uneducated understanding of scripture was incomplete? There's a humility in stepping outside of traditions you have long held and examining them against scripture and against Christian orthodoxy.
Hello, Robert. As DJ already explained, we came out of the UPCI. My wife was raised in the WV district and I was raised in the FL District. We also fellowshipped with many WPF and ALJC churches and went to their camp meetings and revivals as well. By the grace of God I had never ventured into a snake-handling church. But we have had snake-handlers visit our churches. Sincere people, sure. But also as DJ stated, they are sincerely wrong. My prayer is that more people would get acquainted with the scriptures and the gospel of our Lord Jesus.
@@7moseley7 could you two also be “sincerely wrong”?
Anyway to get Jeremy fb blog
He's on FB, you could look him up there.
The Great Falling Away
And not in a negative way
What do you mean
You will be judged with the same measure that you judge others @davewhit3172
The great falling away are churches that are very Liberal/ are pro-Abortion of the Innocent Babies,Same sex marriage approval/ Socialistic One World Religion mentality/that Jesus is not God/ transgenderism etc. that’s Apostate
13:37
God bless you. I'm not UPCI and I do not agree with some of there ways and teachings, but I also don't believe you have integrity with scripture either. Its ok to give your reasons of why you left religion. But stop trying to teach the word of God. That is where you go wrong.
I think when all your doing is bashing any organization it’s not a positive ministry. The Bible does call for Christians to come out and be separate from the world. So to bash the UPCI for having standards is just mean spirited. As far as does the UPCI have problems, every church has problems. There are imperfect people in every church organization. But you seem to have a specific axe to grind with this specific one.
If your message was how to be saved or about God’s love I’d have more respect. Instead this is just hate toward the UPCI and an attempt to pull people out of the church.
Abuse is not positive, leaving a controlling environment is not positive, never having assurance of salvation is not positive. This channel is not directed at UPC people, but toward people who have left and are struggling, people who have been driven out by abuse and hopelessness, people who have questioned some of their teachings in light of scripture. You're right, we are called to be separate...but nowhere in scripture is that separation defined by a clothing uniform or unique outward look. Holiness is not that shallow. If this channel doesn't resonate with you, you are likely not the intended audience. Not everything resonates with everyone. There are channels out there that are evangelistic, this one happens to deal with spiritual abuse and false teachings.
Wow, listening to you three and your judging of other people, is showing your lack of fruits. You need to spend more time with your heavenly Father and attend whatever type of church you feel comfortable.
Blah blah blah ! What do you think Pentecostal preachers do to anybody whose not pentecostal . They don’t call a Baptist their brother or sister . They are first class bashers
I've noticed too that UPC members are very offended by people voicing points they disagree with to the point of anger and let's not leave out harsh judgement towards those who oppose certain points of belief. One of the goals of the UPC is spiritual blackmail if your not like them your of the world or backslidden you don't have the truth these are all fear tactics, a type of spiritual abuse. UPC is cloning members to stay true to the UPC organization not true to God this in itself is idol worship.
I agree to your comment.
Here’s what I’ve got so far from your blogs. Don’t go to church, don’t pay your tithes, very little prayer, look anyway you want, television or movies and Nostradamus of reading your bible. Have you ever tried a regular Pentecostal church? I just want to make it to heaven and if I keep watching your shows, I think I would be serving satan soon instead of living for Jesus. I believe you mean well but unless you turn your blogs into how we can live for God then I think you will do more harm than good. Just my opinion. God Bless
Had some typos in my reply. Sorry
You seem to be taking everything I say to the absolute extreme. I've never said "don't go to church", but I have said that for various reasons some people cannot/do not and they can find different ways to fellowship and worship God and that's ok. I've never said "don't tithe", I don't care how much money people choose to give to their churches but I did say that mandatory tithing is not a Biblical requirement for Christians. I'm right about that. This brings relief to low income people who cannot afford to give 10% are are terrified they are "robbing God" and "under a curse". I've never said lay off the praying, that's just ridiculous (you made that up). I've never said "look any way you want", I have said that the only "rule" we were given in scripture is to dress modestly and respectably. In fact, I believe I said to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit on that matter. I've never really mentioned TV or movies in a positive or negative light. I'm actually pretty careful what I watch. My constant advice is study and read the Bible.
I have tried a regular Pentecostal church and while it worked for many of the people who attended, it didn't work for everyone. I want you to make it to heaven as well, the only way you can do that is through faith in Christ. If you feel that my vlogs are going to have you serving Satan soon then you seem to be very extreme in your reactions, but I would encourage you not to watch anymore. My channel does not specifically address "How we can live for God" (although I feel like I touch on that in almost every video). If that's what you are looking for, there are other wonderful channels you could watch on UA-cam. That's a great topic but this channel deals with false teaching (legalism) and spiritual abuse. Anything taught, with no scriptural backing, that has needlessly weighed people down, I address. Believe it or not, I want to see people follow Christ, that's why I'm trying to remove some of the needless obstacles.
@@ResponsibleFaith maybe I took it wrong about some of the things I said and I’m sorry about that. I’m a fairly new convert and watching your shows really got me to thinking about not going to church or paying tithes. It was probably the devil getting in my head. I think your very good at what you do and I know exactly what your talking about since I was raised UPC as a kid. I left the church but came back about 3 years ago to a Pentecostal church. I really feel the presence of God in that church or I wouldn’t be going. Again, I’m sorry about accusing you of those things. God Bless
No problem, if you misunderstood what I was saying I appreciate having the opportunity to clarify it a bit for you. I'm glad you've found a good church that you enjoy. I hope you have someone you can run these things by (especially as a new convert), I think discipleship is important. It's possible you might even benefit from a personal Bible Study. Maybe a good Christian you know could teach you one. It's something that can help you grow spiritually and if you can't find one, there are great teachers here on UA-cam you could watch to learn. Mike Winger is a good one, so are Alisa Childers and Melissa Dougherty. You might also enjoy some of these videos:
The book of John (read word for word and acted out). It's beautiful:
ua-cam.com/video/47OkuvT5JFo/v-deo.html
This is a great sermon on the grace of God:
ua-cam.com/video/11qLUcvqPIM/v-deo.html
A Christian series on the New Testament, if you haven't seen it yet called The Chosen:
ua-cam.com/video/craeyJdrCsE/v-deo.html
@@ResponsibleFaith Thank you so much. I will read all those scriptures and watch the videos. I will also continue to watch your videos. God Bless You!
Wow a channel for the backsliders.
It depends on who is defining "backsliders". If it's scripture...then no.
No, it’s people with blinders removed.
Please let me add something here. And I say this with an open mind, open heart and arms with love.
Just because someone leaves upci, aljc, or any other apostolic church, or any other denomination does not mean they are backslid!! I left upc I did not leave God nor has he forsaken me either.
Please take the blinders off your own eyes before you point fingers at anyone. And I will go as far as to say: I know for a fact God is not happy when we judge one another. And if you still think we're backsliding, then shouldn't you be fasting and praying for us v. Judging?
I pray the gracious Lord will give you understanding and discernment before throwing darts at fellow Believers. 🙏
@kennethrinicker3200 you are a perfect example of an abusive predator in God's name. Why are you even here commenting, oh wait I know the answer ...to condemn and judge people you don't know. How "christian" of you. Another brainwashed UPC member hurting people in the name of God.
You are a perfect example of the fruit of the UPC. Rotten to the core