The Wider Impact on the Church
This debate is not limited to Pentecostalism. Since the early 1900s, the discussion has rippled through denominations, mission fellowships, and independent churches. Some treat the disagreement as secondary; others consider it a test of orthodoxy.
Historically, Oneness movements emerged from early 20th-century revivals but eventually separated from mainline Pentecostal bodies such as the Assemblies of God. Doctrinally, most Trinitarian churches — Baptist, Methodist, Anglican, Catholic, and others — have long recognized the triune formula as normative. Practically, these divergent convictions continue to affect inter-church fellowship, ministry credentials, and mutual recognition of baptism.
Matthew 28 vs Acts 2:38 — Prescription or Fulfillment?
Matthew 28:18–20 reads: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2:38 says: “Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.” Trinitarians see the first as prescriptive, setting the Trinitarian pattern; Oneness believers view the second as fulfilling Jesus’ command — understanding “the name” as Jesus Himself. Church history reflects both forms of expression, though the Trinitarian wording predominated in creeds and liturgy.
