Raised Apostolic Pentecostal UPC UPCI and the damage it's doing.

A letter we received from a young lady who grew up understanding the judgement and performance-based religion of Apostolic Pentecostalism.
Comments welcome... bashing is not.
Here's some links we referenced..
EMAIL: [e-mail]
Other Good Resources: dividetheword.blog/
spiritualabuse.org/

[@josephleardi6952]

I was born and raised in an Assembly of God Pentecostal church and the damage it caused in my life was very long lasting. Every preacher would get up and yell and scream about sin and the "world" was going to hell, and if you had "worldly friends" you'd go with them. It was a sin to: read comic books, magazines, bowling, dancing, roller skating, going to the movies, swimming in mixed groups, reading books not approved by the church, it was total mind control with lots of fear, shame, and guilt thrown in. It took me many years to find a God of love, mercy, and forgiveness, and it happened when I left that church. Legalism took the love of God and the joy of salvation out of the experience I had to endure if I wanted to go to heaven, and at every service it was like getting a spiritual beating because I didn't do enough or try hard enough to win people over from the "world", it was an awful time in my life and one I wouldn't want anyone to go through what I did. The misery and pain it caused me took a very long time to get over, but God is good and revealed Himself to me in His time, and I'm very thankful He did.

[@camillegrazier7188]

Praise God brother. I, myself, am going through stuff right now in my current church. The same ritual every service. The emotionalism attached to the service. It’s like on auto pilot. If the person preaching isn’t getting the response or outcome they want, they start getting louder and yelling and the music does the same thing. They try to guilt you into going up to the alter. As if that’s the ONLY place where you’ll find the answer you’re looking for. Or, you’ll hear them say “you can tell those who have left by their prayer life. Those are the ones who “quit praying and seeking God” “. No joke. The whole “you gotta get up to this alter and get prayed for, pray through, slain in the spirit, talk in tongues” in order to be “right with God”. As if you’re not “putting on a show”, then you’re not really saved or got the Holy Ghost or living right. That’s the guilt type atmosphere I gotta live with right now. It’s ridiculous. I’m in my way out. And, I’m gonna RUN as fast as I can

[@maryhelencampos9964]

BTW: UPC came out from the Assembly Of God organization more than 75 years ago...Just dialoguing

[@Fashn4LaDieS]

Wow! No Bowling, or roller skating either? I guess the only cardio workout, the women got, was jumping around in church. I knew about the no dancing, tv, football games, movies etc...I know their ice cream socials, & pot lucks were good, when I visited Aunt Ruthie's, when I was little. But the preacher terrified those little kids, screaming & pounding on the pulpit. 1 time, after church, they were making a bee line out the door, & he ran over & blocked the door, handed some $ to the oldest kid, & told us all, to walk down to a little store, & bought us candy. In the same rough voice.

[@theirmom4723]

@@maryhelencampos9964 Correct. The spilt, let's just call it what it is, was due to the teaching of the Trinity. The UPC believe anyone not UPC worships a 3 headed God.

[@I.need.anewsong]

At least you didn't label God based on them.

[@anonymousmusician1368]

The problem with ALL of this is....we are NOT suppose to be going to church for people...we are suppose to do things according and pleasing to God...The bible says My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge...all answers you need are in the Bible...when we think our own way and go our own directions is when these things happen...God is faithful...he never changes...WE DO!!! We are suppose to go to church with our focus on GOD not the people...change your mindset ..change your LIFE

[@user-oj6fp3nx7z]

Fr

[@tammyburgess6154]

I grew up in this denomination and can attest to this behavior. However in adulthood I found one UPC church that I attended where I played the drums they were refreshingly non judgemental. I eventually had to move across the country and choose to not attend UPC anymore. 20 years later this pastors wife and I are still friends. She is aware that I no longer go to church and I have never once heard her scold me. She is rare and I love and appreciate her very much.

[@ohmissyme9582]

Yes that is rare

[@jackiehavea5849]

God bless you Tammy

[@righteousredneck777]

I have visited a upc church recently. I've been seeking God on a new church home. I just don't feel this is where God wants me. The first time I went..I felt like a celebrity. It was like everyone knew I was a visitor and half the church wanted to pray over me. That was fine until they began telling me to just let it out and speak it tounges. I definitely believe in it,but the word goes beyond acts chapter 2. It CLEARLY says that some get the gift and some receive the gift of interpretation or other gifts. They basically wanted me to babble. That's NOT a gift..that's something a person does themselves. I have been seeking God on this and feel its not the church for me

[@leavingtheupci239]

I wish you the best on your journey! The part where talking in tongues in the church is discouraged in the scripture is sadly completely left out of the doctrine.

[@trey4532]

I hate the experience that this young lady has had. It is truly heartbreaking to know that there are people claiming to be “Christians” who would operate in such a way, as she portrayed in her letter. However, I disagree that the UPCI is to blame for this. I hold the pastor of THAT church responsible for allowing their church to be a breading ground for such negativity. While I’m sure their intentions were pure, their methods are certainly questionable. To further back up my point, this is a quote from the General Superintendent of the UPCI, David K. Bernard: “We cannot equate the New Testament church with any human organization. For instance, the United Pentecostal Church International (UPCI) doesn’t claim to be equivalent to the body of Christ, but it is part of the universal church and it plants and nurtures local churches. We can’t say someone must belong to the UPCI to be saved or to have a valid ministry, but we have joined together to fulfill scriptural teachings of unity, fellowship, evangelism, and discipleship. Our official mission is to carry “the whole gospel to the whole world by the whole church.”” (From his book apostolic identity - ch 3, I believe). The point is, the UPCI has never claimed to be the only church with the truth. Those sitting in the highest leadership seat over the UPCI make sure that this is their message. Those who do make the claim that the UPCI is the only organization that is making it through the pearly gates are uneducated. There are MANY apostolic churches out there with different standards on holiness that STILL proclaim truth and function in accordance to the Word of God. This is not to say that holiness doesn’t matter. It does. But there are certainly man-made extremes. ALSO - (personal rant as an Urshan College graduate lol) - I HATE when ministers give the impression that Bible College is the only form of higher education that will keep you in the will of God. THIS. IS. FALSE. While I agree that there is significant value to seminary/bible school/college, it is definitely NOT the ONLY viable option. For me, it was. I want to be a minister and while my degree will not aid me in the secular arena of our world, it will aid me in pursuing what I want and what I feel God wants out of my life. Our calling as Christians is to simply uphold the teachings found in Scripture, maintain our Christian life, and to make disciples. However we elect to fulfill that calling is up to us (free will and all that). MEANING - we can be led to fulfill this through bible school, or secular college. As long as maintaining our Christian living/disciple making is the focus, we remain in the will of God. (Rant over).

[@freddyg1769]

I didn’t grew in the UPCI, after searching for a church that was doing the same as the church described in the Bible, a visited Pentecostal church at the time I didn’t know what Pentecostal was, but after 17 years I had a great experience with it, their teachings have made me a better husband, son, father, not only that I have visited so many other Pentecostal church and I see the same in every church I visited so far, I come from no religious background and have encountered different religious group but none compare with the great experience I had and been having in the Pentecostal church

[@kaylynn8696]

I understand your experience. I was 54 when I left a lifetime in a Baptist church and started in a Pentecostal church. It was so exciting to finally feel the presence of God. I now have read the Bible several times, something I was never encouraged to do. Modesty is certainly in the Word of God. People need to start with Deuteronomy 22:5 when God first mentions that men shall not wear what pertains to women and women not to wear what pertains to men. However, any women who come into church with slacks on are as welcome as anyone else. I also realized that when I was baptized at age 12, there was no feeling whatsoever. Now I have been baptized again and also baptized in the Spirit, which the Bible does state are different baptisms. I am closer to the LORD than ever before. God's blessings.

[@raulmedrano2505]

To kay Lynn and Freddy g I have been in the UPCI for 29 years. The Pentecostal "Oneness" church has been my greatest experience with my "Lord and my God" as doubting Thomas said. There is no other church that I know of that teaches as the Pentecostal Oneness believers church. The LORD said "It is not by might or by power but by my Spirit". Acts 2:38 is just the beginning of your walk and relationship with God. How can anyone accept HIM as their Lord and savior and don't have or build a relationship with HIM? When I come to church, I don't come to focus on this or that but enter into his court with praise and thanksgiving. My brothers and sisters keep those good thoughts and testify about the only true GOD (1st John 5:20) and not about the organization but our relationship

[@JoshD8705]

I'm glad to be a member of the UPC. They're calling you to submit to God, and his word. We don't claim superiority, we're all sinners and called to repent.

[@candyheflin8281]

Bottom line, it’s not the Church, it’s people. As long as we are in this life we will be hurt by humans. We can’t blame God because someone hurt us. We can’t stop going to Church because we were hurt by a person. I’ve been hurt more than once in the past 50 years. My husband was abused as a child in the JW Kingdom Hall, he hasn’t stopped loving God or attending Church.

[@blessedbeyondmeasure-sisdeb]

@@candyheflin8281 Amen Amen Amen! Backsliders always blame the church! It’s God they are leaving and not the church when they backslid!

[@goofballcarroll9450]

So in NZ is totally different to where you are, we love everyone! ive been born a oneness apostolic pentecostal christian. and we dont praise the churches moreless no we definitely praise God

[@chuck4774]

yeah and put the aweful leaders up on a pedastool and they do not deserve to be in the church let alone lead an organisation that represents god. wake up Carroll yes this lady is from the US where they must have different stds to the NZ church but its the leadership that is rotten has been since the "Bishop" (worsefold) thought he was the king.

[@11304800]

She never fully understood the doctrine.. or wasn’t happy with her Responsibility as a Christian. The Scriptures tell us that we have a responsibility to live righteously and sobering. Read Romans 12:1 if you don’t believe that

[@phalailes3350]

Thank you for that.

[@nonaburkhart478]

I came to the Apostolic church by Gods invitation. The night before I passed by my church, I cried out and asked God to help me stop sinning and that I wanted to serve HIM. And as I drove by the lord impressed my mind to go to the apostolic church and I went that Sunday and When I walked in I said I don’t fit in here! These are the holy people so I went to another church the next Sunday and after service I went to the store and a stranger came behind me and said “did you just get out of church?” I said “yes” he said “you better go where God told you to go”! This is not to please our flesh and feelings! It’s the word of God and if you let down and fight flesh with flesh you will reap flesh! We all need to be in a spiritual mind! God hates carnality. It is not about us! It’s the devils job to cause division! Pray for the tares! But we will not stand in judgment for others! Galatians 5 said who bewitched you not to believe the truth!!!! Acts 2:38, Ephesians 4:5 please read this is the only true and holy way! Without holiness and the power of God you cannot become the sons of God!!! I pray for this women! She is deceived!!!! I was not raised up this way and almost died as a teenager and I scoffed at Jesus but he had mercy on my death bed! And the bi le and calling on his name is what helped me at 14 and at 23 I received the acts 2:38 message!!! Have been free from smoking, drugs, cursing and other sins and wickedness! For 21 years! Seek Jesus and ask him for the TRUTH!!!!! People that are raised in this take the truth for granted! I had no up bringing. I woukd not want to stand in her shoes on judgment day!!!!

[@kaylynn8696]

Amen Nona. As I wrote to someone above, I was not raised in an Apostolic or Pentecostal church, but now am in a church that is both. What a huge difference and I absolutely love feeling the presence of God. I could never go back to where I was. I will pray for this woman as well and the others who say they had similar experiences. People are as filthy rags (Isaiah 64) and a person will NEVER find a perfect "church". Only God's church will be perfect, so I read His Word over and over and am trying to be obedient to all His word and not how I once lived by doing what I wanted and never even thinking of giving up anything for God. Jesus chose and taught the disciples and apostles for a reason and told them to go and spread the word to all. He didn't come to this world in flesh and die a brutal death for nothing.

[@harsenprem]

Amen!

[@aaronhenry9294]

Alot of UPC people are brainwashed

[@ttmatt_8250]

Amen! Praise Jesus!

[@optres]

Where does the Bible say smoking and drinking are sins?

[@TruthJusticePeace777]

Holiness is the most abused word in the movement. Holiness is a matter of a pure heart, not a specific uniform. The way they are practiced is usually just as a crutch for those with low self-esteem, so they feel "they are better than other people."

[@sephorareynolds5786]

True .....i think i need to look for another church ....

[@charlienebrown4853]

My brother, sister and I were the outcasts of our UPC Pentecostal church. This letter may have well written by me! This was my life until I was 18 and married the first boy I thought I loved! Running from the UPC church my whole life!

[@ricklori9065]

God loves you❤

[@charlienebrown4853]

@@ricklori9065 I know he does. I don't believe God is truly I. The UPC church.

[@kevincampbell6585]

I didn't grow up UPC, but I joined the fellowship in my late teens/early twenties and my experience in the church has been exceptionally good. I know none of us are perfect & I myself am just trying to live for Christ. I don't know about "legalism" because I personally haven't come across it. I'm not saying it doesn't happen, I just know it hasn't happened to me.

[@tobiassvidr9801]

Some fellowship groups within the UPC are slightly more "liberal" than others in which legalism isn't an issue, but the older generation of UPC assemblies who are unable or refuse to change & grow in understanding are the ones plagued by legalism.

[@tobiassvidr9801]

But of course I no longer attend ANY church, but now I'm just a casual observer.

[@brandipowell7980]

Kevin Campbell I grew up in the UPC! I struggled for a few years but I’m back and I am so thankful God never gave up on me. My Church in New Mexico is amazing and our Pastor and First Lady are the best!! Definitely not judgement though all. They truly care for our souls!

[@brandipowell7980]

at* not though.

[@chrisramsey5380]

Fist Of All Full Gospels, C.O.G.I.C Church Of God In Christ, Assembley Of God's, Non Denominationals & Apostolics With Titles Apostle Are All The True Pentecostals, UPCI without titles Apostle, Freemasons, Eastern Stars, Knights Templars AACC American Association Of Christian Counselors, Amish, LDS/FLDS Mormon are all nothing more than Christian Secret Societies, I grew up in the Baptist Church, i was converted by Non Denominationals, Full Gospel Pentecostals, C.O.G.I.C. Church Of God In Christ Pentecostals, Assembley Of God Pentecostals And CME Christian Methodist Episcopal Methodist, i later joined the Secret Society UPCI and really wished i had stayed in the Baptist Churches and Joined the traditional secret societies Freemasons Eastern Stars And Knights Templars Like Other Baptist. Though things didnt turn out the way i hoped for, still I'm now glad i joined the UPCI and the College scolarship, membership and other offers from the Freemasons and Native Americans didnt work out, because the UPCI fixed a big mess the Full Gospels, The Native American Harjo's and the CME's started that was so bad that, that the Baptist, The COGIC'S, The Assembly Of Gods, The Non Denominationals, The Freemasons, The Eastern Stars, The Kinghts Templars, The Mental Healthcare Systems, The Social Service Systems There Was Nothing They Could Do.!!! UPCI Aww Secret Societies Higher Than The Full Gospels, COGIC's, Assembley Of God's, Baptist, Freemasons, Eastern Stars, Knights Templar, Mental Healthcare Systems And Native American Indian Tribes And Harjo's Do Exist.! UPCI. I. I. I. I.

[@jcolt84]

My girlfriend was raised Pentecostal and no longer attends but she has constant anxiety about the rapture.

[@harsenprem]

Because she knows God is coming soon. Those who do not follows God words and commandments will no be part of the rapture. All of it is in the bible, young sir if you have time read the bible. God bless you

[@Xaforn]

@@harsenprem there is a difference in looking forward to such events vs fear or anxiety.

[@caittrent1933]

its because they use fear as a tactic to control their people

[@maryhelencampos9964]

Are you wash in The Blood Of The Lamb ❤That’s the qualification... for Rapture

[@optres]

I grew up hearing the rapture, than I realized no Christian will be left behind. If you have been sealed no present past or future sin will cause you to be left behind.

[@GagaDebbie]

Thank you so much. I have been crippled emotionally and am now disabled by being involved in the UPC. I have a been so afraid and shamed year after year. Not anymore. My mom is still there. She doesn’t really want me around, only her church people. I see as brainwashing. The truth is, I miss my mom. It’s like being abandoned. I appreciate all you do.

[@Declaringthendfromthebeginning]

They present a false gospel.

[@jonil.j5389]

I hear ya hugs sent your way ❤

[@stevenrivera7776]

It's sad that most of this video was made to talk bad about an experience in the apostolic movement. I became an apostolic a few years ago and I left the movement because of some of the same reasons and it's mainly because the youth. It's like going to high school there's always going to be clicks between youth especially youth that are in the ministry. But the focus is God and should be to walk in holiness. When you go to church you don't go to judge everyone or even have anyone judge you for God has not judged any of us. But I will say this when I left the apostolic church my relationship with God was severed and I went back to the world. But now I'm back and soo much better. The apostolic faith preaches truth to babtized in Jesus name, receive the Holy Ghost with evidence of speaking in tounges and living a life of holiness and separation. What has helped me come back is to realize that we are all human and all flesh and even the pastor and preachers make mistakes. But that shouldn't allow me to separate myself from God. Social media is not the will of God, Sheding light on a bad experience in church is not the will of God it is as much our responsibility as Christians to make the difference and be the difference. Only by humbling ourselves will God exalt us. Luke 18:28 (Then Peter said, LO, we have left all and followed thee.) The truth is not everyone is willing to give all to God and that's why the enemy even uses people in the church to get people out. If we all came together and just obeyed the word of God more of us would be Saved. I believe in the upci apostolic Pentecostal movement for God has revealed himself to me personally and has proven to me why I should be here. And not to trust in Man but in Him. For we are the church and thus when Christ comes for his church not everyone that says lord will be saved. I share this message with Love that no one reading this message or seeing this video would be lost. Not every church is perfect or preaches the right message but when you fast and pray God will guide you and use you to guide others In spirit and in truth... God bless you all and all the Glory Goes to my SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST!!!

[@marizsuyman7993]

AMEN, HALLELUJAH! PRAISE GOD 😭😭😭🔥🔥🔥

[@leavingtheupci239]

Thanks for stopping by. I personally do not believe their doctrine anymore which basically says any believer in Jesus isn’t saved unless they have certain words spoken over them by another human. That’s not the kind, and loving God I serve, but if that is your choice I do NOT judge you. Best wishes. ~Lori

[@andycontreras76]

If it wasn't for you move forward. STOP TALKING ABOUT IT YOUR OUT GOOD FOR YOU. Make a difference

[@rodmanley3219]

Amen brother

[@stevenrivera7776]

@@leavingtheupci239 idk what doctrine is that were you aren't saved unless words are spoken to you by another human being. The Doctrine I preach is the Doctrine of Jesus Christ. But maybe we could talk about it more in depth if you'd like to I'm willing to help. We have our online Services on Facebook. Salvation only Comes through Jesus Christ. Being Baptized in his name receiving his Holy Spirit and living Holy for he is Holy. I Pray for you brother in Jesus name.

[@caseystevens124]

I also think grown adults forget what it’s like to be a teen. They hold on so tight that they end up strangling their drive out of them!

[@joanellis9475]

I have heard many stories of abuse experienced in a UPCI. I began attending a UPCI and I must honestly admit in my first year there I experienced a love I had never before known. It was unfortunate that at that time in my life I was inexperienced and immature concerning the ways of God . The Pastor, his wife and family as well as the flock embraced me . Knowing so little of Christianity , my lack of trust really offended God's Holy people and eventually, (because I was causing discord ) , I was asked to leave . And , of course I did but God revealed to me that the Pastor of that UPCI was His genuine servant . I have had dreams of that family of God at least 3 times since and in every dream, God has shown me they are His people so please don't judge. There exists wolves in all denominations , (at the pulpits and in the pews) whether they be Protestants, Catholics, Anglicans, United , Muslims , etc.. That is reality . So put your trust in God and He will reveal His Saints in supernatural ways to you.

[@maryhelencampos9964]

So sad you were ask to leave especially if you still wanted to attend...that’s an injustice /exactly what was the discord about? 😢

[@maryhelencampos9964]

BTW: the six years I attended a UPC The Father was never worshipped or mentioned...King Jesus came to show us The Father And to destroy the work of Satan of sin and death(John 17) and empower us with Holy Ghost❤

[@lindseydelashmit4575]

This breaks my heart. Im sorry that certain people in the truth have made you feel like ALL people in the religion are this way. If someone judges someone else, no matter their religion, thats a problem inside that one persons heart, or that one clique is bad. I have been raised this way, and I have done nothing but BE THANKFUL for the way I was raised. I turned 18 in January, and Im currently enrolled in community college and moving in this exact week. Saying this to say my church family and friends and my pastor and first lady have done nothing but highly support me and pray for me! Im beyond thankful for what God has done for me and guiding me through the right path in life. No one can tell me that I'm living a lie, because God has been too good for me to doubt him! I will be praying for you that God open up your heart to know that you've been completely misguided, and I will be also praying for the people that made you and this other young lady feel this way, because at the end of the day, we are all sinners not worthy of God's grace. God Bless!

[@CC-vw1nd]

Yes! There are just people unfortunately with stinky attitudes that hurts other people. God needs everyone He can that recognizes the problems to be the example of what a Christian should look like.

[@Raiden-the-Goat32]

But hear me out on this every religious person thinks they are right just as much as the next religious person. All religion's use the same reasoning or logic behind the truth of there religion. So clearly you all can not all be correct but you all can be wrong. Also people would not so much have a problem with other people's religion if it did not effect everyone else. So it is not as simple as someone is just being negative when they criticize religion. Also any idea put out in public religious or political is fair game. This is especially true if people are using these religious views to pass law's and limit the right's of other's ! This is also especially true in regards to medical emergencies! Also people can have rightful outrage about religion and the stuff it causes people to do. Just because someone does not tell you what you want to hear does not equal negativity.

[@Djhikes63]

I love how you call your pastor's wife "1st lady" as if they are royalty. Very interesting.

[@blessedbeyondmeasure-sisdeb]

Sadly Lindsey, this lady is typical backslider, they always blame the organization instead of themselves!

[@maryhelencampos9964]

Lindsey if one is born-again and repented how can they still be a sinner/we become a new creature in Christ and put on Christ with the help of Holy Spirit...rather we all have fallen short of His glory but the blood of King Jesus’s washes us❤It’s His righteousness not ours/He makes us righteous/we are the righteousness in Christ Jesus ❤Indeed Thank Heavenly Father for Sending His Son to empower us for redemption salvation through the shed blood of Calvary’s Cross Of Christ ❤Just dialoguing

[@charlenekuykendall2035]

I joined the apostolic penecostal church in lindsay ok I love it I got closer to God and I learned more about him then I did at a baptist or assembly of God church

[@maryhelencampos9964]

You can’t get any closer to GOD but only through Jesus Christ there’s no other salvation ❤It is Finish/King Jesus paid the price ❤maybe you enjoy worshiping the Holy Ghost way that not to many churches offer.

[@theirmom4723]

Oneness Apostolic can not get you closer to God. They get you closer to an experience of emotions and teach Jesus only. AofG is Trinity, Father (God), Jesus (Son) and Holy Spirit (the comforter)....

[@leslieflores4419]

I got baptized in the name of Jesus. In a pentescostal church. I tried other church and did not work for me. I love the pentescostal church!🙏❤ I have met the most beautiful kind hearted brothers and sisters there❤

[@briananderson2023]

So did I, grew up more what we called Pentecostal Holiness but we believed in speaking in tongues, receiving the Holy Ghost, being baptized! So I don’t understand why so many people have to give Pentecostal churches such a bad name!

[@leslieflores4419]

@@briananderson2023 we believe in speaking tongues also and receiving the Holy Ghost🙌🏼💖❤. If you dont show up to church my brothers and sisters call you to see if you are okay and if you need anything ❤ they aren't pushy they just really care for each other.❤ and if they say bring ppl to church is because they want you to spread the word of God.❤ idk why ppl take it the wrong way.💔 I am blessed to be in a pentescotal church❤❤❤ they are very caring💖

[@briananderson2023]

@@leslieflores4419 amen! My church is the same way, anytime I miss a service which I try my hardest not too I will have someone from my church message me and ask if I’m doing alright! Pentecostal people are literally the sweetest!

[@leslieflores4419]

@@briananderson2023 Amen❤ God bless you!.. let's keep spreading the word of God❤🥰 Pentescotal 🙌🏼❤😄

[@shaianne.d.p]

Amen! Me too@

[@andys3035]

Been awhile since I've visited your channel. Glad to see you're still going at it! God bless

[@jklynb]

Oh my goodness! The approval of leaders rings so true. That became my focal point. Thank you for your videos because I still feel guilty for leaving sometimes.

[@grammye2917]

I started attending a UPCI church when I was 25. It's been 50 years now. I have never been concerned about the approval of pastors or leaders. The only approval I am looking for is that of Jesus Christ, who paid a debt He did not owe, because I owed a debt I could not pay. In the face of God's great love, how can i not love Him? Because I love Him, I want to please Him in every way. He has given us the Bible to show us what His will for us is, as well as lots more, and I delight to do His will. My church families have always been supportive, loving, and good people. The purpose of going to church is to seek a genuine relationship with Jesus! Anything less will not satisfy. It's all about Him.

[@rebeccaw68]

I am apostolic, have been for a long time, not UPCI though until recently. I agree with some of what was said, but some of this is cultural. Not all churches behave the same. As far as the colleges, not everybody goes to Christian colleges and in my church no pressure to do so, and it is no secret some of these schools are not accredited as other schools, non Christian are not accredited. That is the choice of the student. Who are these leaders? I am sure there are churches with unhealthy cultures. That is EVERY group of human beings on earth. Where there are human beings there is a danger of taking ideas taken to the extreme. It does not mean the basic principles are wrong. I. E. Instruction on appearance and dress IS a biblical principle whether you like it or not. It is not wrong to instruct on that. Being dogmatic by expanding that beyond the scriptures is. And I have seen that, but teaching on that is scriptural, as the letter itself she talked about her standard of modest dress. If she can, so can the church. I know this does go on but stereotyping ALL churches under in this organization is also judgemental and that is not right. My church is apostolic and is associated with several organizations.. In my church,, some women cut their hair, some don't. Some wear make up,, some don't. As far as what should be worn if on a platform or stage is not hypocritical.. Places of employment do the same. That is not all unusual. Find a church that is healthy, pray for the rest, but stereotyping all of them shows an unhealthy bias and just as troubling as some of the behavior you pointed out. Many people found God in an apostolic church. I know I did. To indicate all churches are extreme and unhealthy is simply not true.

[@jarrett-marksimmons6176]

Amen

[@CC-vw1nd]

When the young lady talks about the experience with the snarky comments by the mean girls about the visitors' pants, that was her opportunity to show them the RIGHT attitude, and to talk to them how their attitude was wrong.

[@amandabrown7280]

She WAS 17. Relax

[@CC-vw1nd]

@@amandabrown7280 One is never too young to have courage and do the right thing, set an example

[@amandabrown7280]

@@CC-vw1nd that’s true but when you’ve been brainwashed your whole life into thinking in that mindset yourself it’s sure as hell a lot harder to do I can tell you that much.

[@CC-vw1nd]

@@amandabrown7280 I understand that, but everyone can be kind. It takes one person to turn a situation around sometimes.

[@CC-vw1nd]

@@amandabrown7280 We have to have the courage to stand up to bullies for others, at church or anywhere else. I'm teaching my children that.

[@christiancoach9418]

I left legalism too. Best decision of my life!!!

[@lydiaclapham1221]

God Bless You and Yours Greatly

[@britniturner8109]

Any books you can recommend for getting your life back after leaving ?

[@darwinapala960]

Main reason I left upci is because a great man of God who had license with them. His license was pulled by the Leadership because he would not stop ministering to the homeless. He was told by the UPC leadership that the homeless can't pay tithes. Seriously??? So sad. I would not want to be in their shoes. I do pray for their deliverance and pray they see God's love and mercy.

[@maryhelencampos9964]

True colors ...sad/one never knows when homelessness will come their way😢but by the Grace Of GOD

[@mikehardy4474]

My daughter and I have gone to a UPC here in our town that’s does not demand any of these rules.My daughter,a hair stylist,has short hair and wears pants.She brings guests with many tattoos and piercings on their face and body.The pastor took them in right away and they are baptized and still wear piercings.No one in our 3-4 years have talked about rules of any kind.Most of the young people go to public college not UPC college.It’s obvious every UPC church is not the same.Our pastor Higgs every single person every service and texts us also,incredibly amazing loving church!

[@Xaforn]

Not every church is the same. Not everyone experiences the same.

[@mikehardy4474]

@@Xaforn ,That’s very true.We have people that have no nice clothes and no one cares what they look like.I went to a church in the country where no one even has a car.A van picked them up for church which was an old trailer.

[@darwinapala960]

And that's the way it should be! Apparently your pastor has a pastors heart and compassionionate about the lost. Be thankful that you have a man of God like that! It's rare......

[@Iam_Celene]

WE LEFT LEGALISM Hi! I am 19 years old and grew up around what’s called lordship salvation where they mix the discipleship requirements as a part of the salvation event and it makes a muddy mess. Is there any way I could write you a letter through email

[@leavingtheupci239]

Celene Frodema sure! [e-mail] -Lori

[@Iam_Celene]

WE LEFT LEGALISM awesome I wasn’t in Pentecostal but it was still spiritually abusive I am out of that mindset but for about 5 years I went through torture of thinking if I overstepped the sin line I’d go to hell

[@Iam_Celene]

WE LEFT LEGALISM it was horrible I still am letting go of the this is right and this is wrong I’m just letting myself know it’s just me and who I am there’s no right or wrong

[@Bellitab]

Wow... I could have written this about my childhood. I'm 34 and only just realized that my parents had us in a semi cult for my childhood...I was a Preachers kid. The sense of always being bad is the worst. Thankfully God released my whole family and my parents have done a lot of work in trying to un-indoctrinate me. I have since found that God IS love... He loves me...if it's not love then it's not God. So much of my childhood was about works not love.

[@tonyarobinson7617]

God is faithful to lead us into righteousness. Ideologies of the flesh do not hold a candle to Him.

[@rangersmom1994]

This video is so relatable

[@kennethchan6815]

it is not what a person wears that proves one's faith...it is the heart that counts...just as how the Pharisees tried to critisise the diciples who eat with unclean hands...

[@scarletrozes7832]

I went through a season where I thought wearing skirts was pleasing to God, too. Then I started to judge others for not wearing them, wearing makeup, etc., and knew something was terribly wrong. So I immediately stopped wearing them and did my own study and research. It's been a long journey. I used to think the UPC was the true Church, too. God has had to use His Word to break me free of that belief also. It's absolutely liberating.

[@leavingtheupci239]

Real Deal Spill maybe God told YOU not to wear pants (although, He also said in the Old Testament a few verses down not to mix wool and linen. I’ll bet you’ve never been taught THAT one. Why? Because it doesn’t help the UPC and it’s constituency. Let that soak in.) anyway, for one person to tell another not to wear or do anything is frightening and what’s caused you to obviously become self-righteous. You can study your way out of the UPC though, and become what God desires- loving

[@leavingtheupci239]

Real Deal Spill I wish you the best. Love to you.

[@leavingtheupci239]

Real Deal Spill, He told me it was okay. What He tells you is your responsibility. Please refrain from shouting on my channel. Thanks.

[@nicotiutalupau6472]

It’s one thing to be self-righteous, and it’s another to flat out disobey and set aside a passage of the Bible because it doesn’t line up with what the flesh wants the do.

[@peterodriguez9818]

@@leavingtheupci239 Hello sister the Apostolic church is a False Gospel lying signs and wonders and False prophets. kzbin.info/www/bejne/g6qnppmOdrl5opY

[@Fashn4LaDieS]

Thank Heavens, our church encourages people to get as much college education as we can! "Jesus is the light of the world, & the glory of God is intelligence." We will use what we learn, in the hearafter. BYU is accredited, & you can feel the uplifting spirit on that campus.

[@theirmom4723]

Mormon?

[@jayladickerson9099]

I find this video sad..she went to a VERY strict UPC church. Her church didn’t have the love/compassion of God, which is horrible. It’s possible to wear skirts and have “holy” standards without being judgmental or hateful. Apostolic or Pentecostal standards are a way to prevent sin and unnecessary hardships.

[@jayladickerson9099]

J. Watts I didn’t say I was holier! Not at all. There’s quite a few women at my church that wear pants only, and they’re still treated the same as the women who wears skirts only. No one feels condemned just because they wear different clothing. It really comes down to the church culture that your pastor creates. It can be condemning or loving. What’s wrong with wearing skirts & modest clothing to keep yourself at a standard?? If God said that I’m separate from the “world”, then why can’t I dress differently too?? I’m glad I’m not into legalism because that would turn me away from God tbh.

[@childofgodwalkingbyfaith5487]

All I’m hearing from the letter is she has her eyes fixed on man not God... I say this because I was her, when I started going I started seeing hypocrisy and a lot of people saying what I must do and not doing what they say! I was ready to leave I didn’t want to be in a church who told me don’t paint nails hair or makeup yet they did or they let their own daughters do it but I had to talk to God and had to see that I’m not their for them I’m their to please my God the one who is a God of disciplines and authority and I must submit to him let the Holy Spirit condemn you not the church people! God helped me let all those things of the world go I do it cus I love him and i know he has authority of my Soul to send it to hell or not. I want to be righteous child before him and I struggle but I try everyday. Don’t forget he suffered way more how are we gonna complain about leaving material things ?? Just talk to God he will lead you tho the truth. Who cares about what the people of the church say you do what God tells you if they judge let them judge for God will judge them the same way they judged YOU. The end of is NEAR LETS BE READY AND WILLING. 🙏🏼

[@kaylynn8696]

Very well stated.

[@ohmissyme9582]

So it's her fault..got it.

[@harsenprem]

Amen!

[@ttmatt_8250]

Amen that’s right. I was born into an apostolic Pentecostal church but my parents didn’t abide with the holiness standards as well. So I wore short shorts, pants, cropped tops and just overall skimpy clothes; makeup; nail polish. My mom even shaves her head bald a few times a year. But as I got older, I began to worry that my church members would find me at the stores or wherever - dressed like the world. I tried so hard to pretend to be like them when I was at church but then when I was at school or wherever, I was a totally different person! It even got to the point where I was completely backsliden and wanted to leave the church all together. Until I began to make it a habit to pray in the Holy Ghost (tongues) daily and that is when I actually began my walk/relationship with Jesus. One of the first things he convicted me about what my hypocrisy and He gave me the desire to dress modest and become a godly woman. The more I prayed, the more I felt His desires for my life and no longer did I feel chained in this church, but rather I enjoy going to my UPC church and I LOVE LOVE praising Jesus with my brothers and sisters. ITS AMAZING PRAISE JESUS HE IS SO GOOD AMEN!

[@Finnigamos]

I grew up upci understand all of this, makes my stomach hurt. Im an atheist now, and ive never been healthier in my relationships and mind than right now, take that as you will.

[@caseystevens124]

Sounds like this young lady is needs love and better encouragement in the home also. For her parents to say and let her do one thing here and then live differently there they are teaching her that fear. They should have given her the reassurance that yes it is important to obey but let me show you why and how. It ALL STARTS with LOVE, not love. God has not given us the spirit of fear... I was in this place at one point in my life, do as I say not as I do. I left the church for five years, thought I was “free”. Truth is I just had it all wrong. It doesn’t matter what man puts before you, get in that Word, love Jesus, share Jesus and yes, sit under a pastor who loves Jesus too, who doesn’t dictate but serves! Holiness starts in the heart. If she feels that she is to get the approval of the leader before God there is teaching done wrong....I pray she finds peace and comes to find a love for God and His word from all this. It’s hard to remember, man is still man! Sometimes they are lead by tradition and not conviction. The old paths are important and God changes not, this is our Christian foundation! 🥰

[@leavingtheupci239]

Casey Stevens “they should have..” ... seriously condescending and it makes you seem like a ‘know it all’. Is that what Jesus meant when He told us to love one another? I think not.

[@jessevarela]

Obviously King David and Joshua didn't get the memo about legalism because they either meditated on the law day and night and delighted in it. But what did they know? It's not like God had a special relationship with either one of them. 🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️

[@brandipowell7980]

I’m not sure which UPC Church she goes too. That’s heartbreaking for what she is going through. I’m so thankful my upc Church isn’t that way at all!! So thankful for my Pastor & First Lady!!

[@CC-vw1nd]

Where at Brandi?

[@brandipowell7980]

C C I attend Church in Lovington, New Mexico! I absolutely love it and my Pastor & First Lady are amazing! New Covenant Apostolic Church!!

[@CC-vw1nd]

Yes, it is sad the things she is describing. I have attended different UPCI churches due to moves and other circumstances, and there can be a world of difference from one church to another.

[@SamanthaRuiz]

?????????????? I LOVE being Apostolic Pentecostal. God is moving mightily and the anointing of services. I’m 23 years old and I am so blessed God brought to truth. Pure holy truth. I’m sorry for your experience. Fast and pray He will lead and restore your church hurt. Much love from me, Samantha ❤️

[@leavingtheupci239]

Samantha Ruiz I wish you the very best. I’m guessing you were raised in it and it’s all you’ve known. Just know that God is much bigger than we can all imagine. If you ever get to the point to where you look at people with pity that don’t ‘look like you’, you’ve gotten to a point of judgment. That’s where I got and I knew that it was a stink to God. It’s called self-righteousness and it’s cause for pause in the kingdom.

[@SamanthaRuiz]

Life After LEGALISM actually I’ve been Apostolic pentecostal for 3 yrs. I was lost in the world. drugs parties alcohol. I crashed my car drunk driving and that’s when I found Jesus. With our anyone it was foreign to me. I gave it to Him all for a year just me and Him. Me not knowing anything but I asked Him to guide me to Him and what pleases Him. Little by little so naturally he took away all my vanity I was cleaned by the Holy Spirit. I prayed for a church not knowing anything about Apostolic Pentecostal. I prayed to God bring me a community that can relate to this. Two years after I moved to TX. Still praying for a church. I searched up a church and felt lead. I ran to it on a week day it was closed but I found an open door I was hungry! And I saw a lady and she was beautiful in terms of her holiness I’m like wow God there really is others you brought to this. And from there I found myself in an Apostolic Pentecostal church. Such a powerful anointing. All lead by God not man. It was only Him and I and he really does guide. Maybe it was the church culture you grew up in but what God has lead me to has changed my life in the most holy anointing way. Now my mom comes with me and my brother and it’s amazing to see my prayers coming to life. I don’t say this an argument just sharing my testimony because it was lead by God. So you can be aware to be careful what you say putting one experience in a whole spectrum because God will hold you accountable for blasphemy. I love you take care!

[@leavingtheupci239]

Samantha Ruiz okay. I can only suggest to study the Scriptures to find out what holiness means, and find out what anointing is. I wish you the best.

[@kaylynn8696]

Wonderful Samantha.

[@sumthinfresh]

Legalism is in all denominations. Lead by example and love at all times. Rebuke should never come before tears and always come with gentleness.

[@leavingtheupci239]

Josh Holden ok

[@mikehardy4474]

I know of a few high class Baptist Churches that are like that,cold as ice,they will send you a bill for your 10% gross also.

[@sophisticatedPJs]

Hi, I just want to say I appreciate seeing this and I hope you never listen to the people who want to tell you what to believe. A wise person once said "People who tell you what to think are never your friend". Stay safe out there ^^ Also, as someone who was also in this, I would highly recommend looking into the BITE model for determining cults. It's very eye-opening to see how many things on the list line up perfectly with the Apostolic church's beliefs.

[@leavingtheupci239]

Thank you for stopping by! 😊

[@sandrasanders706]

About college ed, the same thing happens in Fundamental Baptists as well.

[@andrewgoss6486]

Gosh. I am so glad that I am not emotionally needy. Being emotionally needy sounds exhausting. I have never had a negative experience at any church I have been to. Perhaps my emotional expectations are far less than those who talk about cliques and 'abuse'. It sounds like nobody can be 'spiritually abused' against their will.

[@goofballcarroll9450]

Praise the Lord, Im from UPC NZ and this is totally different. In NZ no one ever judges a person by appearance, especially in the house of God.. This video just personally isnt true.

[@leavingtheupci239]

goofball carroll thanks for sharing and we’re so glad you’re happy and it’s not your personal experience. Sounds like you’re considering all the body of Christ is one, no matter if you’ve ‘spoke in tongues’ or not. That’s great!

[@chuck4774]

you mean their doctrine isnt the same as the NZ one but except for the clothing its pretty much the same

[@horetaepere8622]

Amen we of UPCNZ adhere to the Apostles doctrine, i dont believe any of this is true, choose you this day who you will serve, you cant serve 2 masters, God is Holy, therefore be ye holy, most churches these days you cant tell the difference from the world, Apostolics raise a standard of holiness it is required of the Lord, to be in the world but not of the world, lastly tell the truth, and not complain.

[@jackiehavea5849]

@@horetaepere8622 ka pai Matua Epere

[@t.j.smithe5415]

So if I show up to your church wearing jeans, and I want to get up on the platform and offer a song of praise to God, you are saying I would be welcome to do so?? I am a survivor of the Apostolic UPC church, and I know for a fact that would never happen.

[@R.Varian]

As a long time member of a church pastored by a licensed UPCI minister, I hate that there are negative feelings towards the organization. That being said most often videos like this are not very helpful to anyone. They don’t deal with any meaningful content like the Bible itself. There is no Biblical presentation made, neither is there a chance given to a minister to defend a position. It stands to reason that some people wouldn’t like any teaching instituted that would limit what they consider freedom. That in it of itself does not make their feelings scripture. The argument is always well "Jesus loves me the way I am". The question is never if Jesus loves us, it’s how we love him in return. Jesus said "if you love me keep my commandments". I would be happy to discuss and position of the UPCI from a Biblical standpoint. Let’s not make our walk with God so shallow though that we don’t allow His word to change us.

[@anthonybrenda3648]

Jesus said if you love me you will keep my Commandments

[@lynettetamata7148]

U nailed it

[@2doright647]

Yes and one of His commandments is to love one another. Loving one another is not gossipping and being mean to others

[@DXPunx74]

I am speaking out against it on my other KZbin channel. They ruined my friends life. They have done so many horrible things to me too. I hope one day law enforcement investigates these churches and the things they do to people. Especially with the mind control and brainwashing.

[@grammye2917]

In 50 years of serving God and going to many different UPCI churches, I have NEVER seen "mind control" or "brainwashing."

[@marka6719]

Amen. Glad to hear some truth and not legalism. Some Baptist have the same “Bible Colleges”. And all they do is strap these young people with a mountain of debt and nothing they can use to dig out. So glad I listened to this video. Keep it up

[@DXPunx74]

The Apostolic church has competition. This Mormon guy told me his religion is the one true religion too. They really need to get together and talk.

[@leavingtheupci239]

🤣🤣🤣

[@ktfilms7977]

You can never force someone to dress correctly, you have to wait for them to make that choice, with the help of God.

[@leavingtheupci239]

KT Films ‘dress correctly’, meaning according to the organization’s standards? And are you talking about in 2020, or maybe 1950, or maybe even 1610... I mean, it’s not important... seriously. It’s just not.

[@rebeccaw68]

@@leavingtheupci239 Then you would have to criticize the Bible for its instruction on modest dress. You think the word "correct" is an issue? The Bible says modest. That is correct. I have seen churches go from modest dress and there was an uproar about now, its an any goes approach where everything is acceptable and you better not say anything or you will be labeled "judgemental" or you are victimizing people. That is also extreme and no different .

[@leavingtheupci239]

“..dress correctly..” straining at gnats KT, not to mention that look of moral superiority is Never gonna win folks to JESUS!

[@darwinapala960]

We were always taught when visitors attended to pray with them encouraging to seek the Holy Ghost. And allow God to convict them not man. There is a difference. I can take you all to some UPC churches in Texas and they look non denomination or even Baptist. Nothing wrong with this. I believe the Lord is opening man's eyes to true holiness v. Man-made tradition

[@destinyscanzillo6367]

The UPCI church in general is not like that, if you go to a United Pentecostal Church and they are practicing extreme legalism, focusing more on standards then getting people filled with the Holy Ghost, leave that church because they are not growing. UPC Church I've been raised in wants nothing to do with legalism. We believe in one God one name baptism in Jesus name with the infilling of the Holy Ghost. We believe in modesty but we do not let that override our mission to get people feel the spirit of God

[@Gone23232]

God is with you wherever you go he is everywhere all the time and they should not make it like he is only for that church I know how that is now it when God decides to give me a dream or something I take it to heart but when somebody tells me something that sounds like bologna I usually know what it is they should not do that they should really tell you how to be saved instead of telling you how to live like you're better than everybody else amen

[@777igg]

I actually get very upset over false doctrine at times The way it deceives ensnares and ultimately leaves people empty and Confused I Have a Mormon friend who I really Love and wanna see whole in Christ. I didn’t know if you heard but there is a KZbin channel called Mormon stories where recent interviews this year of a husband and wife named Leah and Cody and their daughter Brinley young who were excommunicated because they couldn’t keep all the standards and started researching the truth.

[@scottparks7724]

For the young woman who wrote the letter and the lady speaking, your experiences are very unfortunate and in my opinion, not a representation of the UPC. The church, ANY church, UPC or not, should accept anyone as they are with open arms. As the Lord places convictions upon you about dress, jewelry, behavior, etc... you should listen to Him. If you don't feel led to dress a certain way, then don't. As Pentecostals, we don't dress this way because our pastor tells us to. We dress this way because we believe it's pleasing to God. However, the pastor is completely appropriate to apply stricter standards to people in positions of leadership, such as singing, teaching Sunday School, or speaking from the platform. The platform is the public face of the church, and we all know that if someone got on the platform that didn't look "Pentecostal" the rumors would start to fly: "That church doesn't have standards anymore." or "They just let anybody get on the platform at their church." The standards we follow AND WHY we follow them are studied and taught over many years of growth in the church. There is Bible scripture to support our choices of Holiness. No, the Bible doesn't say that women have to wear dresses or skirts, but It does say that women should dress differently than men. Likewise, men should not dress as women. If you are judged by any member of the church, then that person is in the wrong. They have no right to pretend to be better than anyone. Unfortunately, there are people in EVERY church that take it upon themselves to act in the pastor's place and pronounce judgement. Regarding the multiple activities on multiple nights at the church, If you don't want to be involved in everything, then don't. My church (before COVID) has several activities every week. I can't take the time to take part in all of them. Even the Pastor doesn't show up for all of them. It's just not realistic for ANYONE to be at church nearly every single day. We all have lives to live outside the church. Live your life. Choose what you want to be involved in. Of course, if you don't want to be involved at all, then your problem is not with your church. It's with your own commitment to God. I did not type this long statement to be critical of your situation. In fact, I would probably be hurt, as well, if I was treated the same way that you were. I just want you to know that I think your experiences are not typical of a UPC church. Each one is different. Every pastor is different. I acknowledge that. Your opinion of the UPC is understandably bad, but I would recommend you try some other churches before you condemn the UPC as a whole. I would like to believe that my UPC church would never treat anyone like that, but I can only speak for myself. IF this were to ever happen to someone visiting our church, I'm pretty sure my pastor would swiftly deal with those treating that individual so harshly. That is not Christ-like, which is what we should all strive to be. That includes anyone that calls themselves a Christian: Pentecostal, Baptist, Methodist, etc...

[@ljc415]

I did not grow up in a upci church, started when I was 36. I grew up Baptist. I can see how these things could happen. I have not seen it personally, in the 24 yrs I have been a member of my home church. A lot of hate going on here. What was done is being done.

[@lianagarcia7499]

Um I’d like to say that the UPC church has saved my life so strongly it’s almost unreal. All I know is it FIXED the damage in my life and I don’t know what would have happened if I never found the truth. What will you tell Jesus on judgement day?

[@royahawke]

You know the workings of religion and it’s people killed Jesus? It’s about having a personal relationship with Jesus and nothing more. I went to an A/P church and they’re very legalistic in the way one must dress and ridicule anyone who decides not to dress their way. God looks at the heart, not external appearance according to 1 Samuel 16:7

[@sandrasanders706]

Well, it wont be why did you wear jeans..

[@roselynrancesviado3738]

There is no perfect church. The Word of God says in Hebrews 12:2 "Looking unto Jesus, He is the author and the finisher of our Faith..." Religion cannot save us but our true relationship with God. The Word of God says in James 1:26-27 “If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.” “Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.” Romans 8:1 “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” Not all Apostolic Pentecostals are the same, please don't generalize. We have a loving God and we are loving people. I love you all..

[@Denanny2]

Amen

[@davidortega357]

I grew up.in the SISTER CHURCH of UPCI. APOSTOLIC. ASSEMBLY LATINO FELLOWSHIP. BILIGUALISM. NOW. STD ABOUT THE SAME SAME STRUGGLES

[@vanessarapp2912]

I just got out of this church after being in for 6 months. When I first went I hated it. I thought they were weird and could feel the judgement. My friend encouraged me to go and so despite my feelings I went. I hated every second of it. Then I tried to be open minded. I saw my 16 year in a panic over dress code. I got baptized and the baptism of the Holy Spirit. In the van I’m told we must dress in dresses and not cut our hair. Our hair is our glory. A few days later I go to a leaders house I’m dressed in jeans, boots and a shirt. Her comment was looks like you are going on the night on the town. Things that set me off I went to my 16 year olds Sunday school to make sure she understood the word. I was like ok I’ll come every Sunday and sit with my kid. I was told this wasn’t allowed and we could do a Bible study at home. That set off alarms. The service after I got saved the message was you don’t miss church no matter what. I had been told before to quit my job so I can attend service Sundays and Wednesday. When I mentioned my husband working too, I was told it’s ok he’s a man. I had ordered a study Bible. I was told the lady needed to ask her pastor husband if it’s ok I get the Bible. I’m like uhh it’s paid for. I was told don’t worry you can return it. The hair thing is ridiculous. I asked about cutting split ends and was told no. A woman’s hair is her glory. When we left and I told my daughter. I told my daughter to cut her hair. She listened and was absolutely happy about her hair. According to these people of the church. Everyone in my family is going to hell but me since I’ve been baptized by Jesus. I’m so glad I got out. This denomination is crazy.

[@mikehardy4474]

Sorry you experienced that.My daughter and I have been going to a UPC church 4 years and have never had any of those things happen to us.She is the top hairdresser in our city and wears pants to church all the time.I have a beard and wear jeans.We have people with tatoos and face piercings that have been baptized there.It’s great.I am a working musician in a band.

[@maryhelencampos9964]

Vanessa sounds like mix messages and chaotic you were told😢 Scripture reads”Those that call upon the Name Of The LORD shall be save”/btw: women don’t wear pants but I am sure they wear pj pants at home😂makes no sense Go figure / just dialoguing...Jesus saves not religion(former UPC for years)

[@dpterrell17]

It is very interesting to read the various comments. I've been in UPC Churches since I was in diapers and that has been nearly 60 years. Much of the criticism that is being leveled is valid and worthy of discussion. Yes there is a good bit of organization worship and certainly Preacher worship. Fear tactics and dangling the congregation over hellfire is a very common practice. Sadly , there are folks who are convinced that the UPC is the only way to Heaven, and fail to know their 20th Century history of the movement. I would encourage everyone to read the book, published by Word Aflame ( so it is Gospel ) "The Winds of God" by Ethel Goss. It is first of very inspring to read of how the Spirit moved in the earlier days, compared to the current practice of calling any reved up song set a move of the Spirit, but also the comments of how things were before the Holiness folks took over the movement. Yes there have been differences of opinions on some critical maters that are not discussed today, because one side overcame most by politics. Some names that are revered held beliefs that today would be considered heresy in most oneness Pentecostal Churches even outside of the UPC. In my life I have seen several taboos become the norm and the old positions now called silly. But they were not taught as silly 40 years ago. They were taught as Heaven or Hell issues! Sorry folks God does not change. The other point to realize is some of these Heaven or Hell issues are in fact regional. What flys in California may not in Texas or the Mid-west. Twenty years ago i was on an Apostolic discussion board, and a guy from Texas and something of a Minister claimed no issue with guys playing competitive football in HIgh School, while in the Midwest that would be a clear sign of a backslider. The only point the UPC is actually united on is the claim of "United".

[@leavingtheupci239]

dpterrell17 thank you for your heartfelt comments. They’re very much appreciated. I only really have one question: the book you suggested that is published by your organization’s publisher..... does that seem to you that it might possibly be a slanted book, made to make the organization look good?? I have studied the origins, and I can tell you with great certainty that specifics were omitted that might change your opinion, if you only knew. I can only strongly suggest to study out on your own (if you truly want to know and can discard any cognitive dissonance that might cloud your learning). You might not like what you’ve been taught as ‘truth’. Just a thought and only imo.

[@CC-vw1nd]

@@leavingtheupci239 Word Aflame is UPC, not another organization

[@mikehardy4474]

@@leavingtheupci239 ,We don’t have those problems in my church which is UPC.

[@britniturner8109]

How do we unlearn these behaviors and mentality after we leave this cult? It only been a few months since I left and I feel like I think like them . I don’t want to be this way .

[@grammye2917]

The UPCI is not a cult. A cult has at its center something other than Jesus Christ. IF you want to be in right standing with God and ready for heaven, read your Bible and do what it says. The Gospels teach us about Jesus (God in a body of flesh), the Book of Acts tells of the beginning of the N.T. church, and the epistles teach us how to live a life that is pleasing to God.

[@britniturner8109]

@@grammye2917 where the spirit of the lord is , there is liberty. I am free and will never go back to the cult

[@treylopez1062]

Ive been raised in the Apostolic Pentecostal organization. Every church is differnt. Some are more stricter than others, but my church has taught me so much. I’ve become a better leader, worshipper, and a person. To me, I have no problem being modest. As for Christian college, we don’t push that agenda. It’s whatever the Individual wants. I went to community college. I still served God, went to church. If I didn’t make it to a church service I wasn’t condemned. They were understanding. Mind you, it’s differnt being part of an audience vs. Being up on stage. When you’re up on stage that’s when you would have to notify whenever you are out of town or on vacation. My church accepts it. There is no problem. Again, every church is differnt. But i love my church community

[@wjdyr6261]

Holiness is to be on the inner parts which works their way to the external. It's a work of God & not men.

[@amandaelliott6752]

She needs to study the word, God does say give up EVERYTHING to follow him. Following God will cost everything, it’s a daily sacrifice.

[@woodfloorsjohnny]

Breaks my Heart to hear this..so my growing up experience to the Tee..but as a Guy..100%...

[@marinalewis4798]

I so agree. I was raised Pentecost.

[@Mari-B]

Another very enlightening video. Thank you for doing them. I truly feel it's helping so many to see that they are not alone as they try to escape the mental bondage that so many are trying to cope with. God bless you!

[@barbaramartin5495]

😡

[@Christian-sc2un]

I was in the assemblies of God (trinitarian pentcostal), but i left them because, they have to much a spirit of pride, and their spirit of pentecotism will tell you, if you don't speak in tongues you have not receive the holy Ghost, and you are not save for the extremes...same in Oneness pentcostal, after i left trinitarian i began to listen to a Oneness preacher, and i was seduced by they doctrine and i began to make war against the trinitarian, telling them they worship 3 Gods etc....But one day i ask God, because i am a christian that believe in deliverance and that a christian can have demons in their flesh, pentcostal don't believe in that because they say if you have receive the Holy Ghost you can't have demons in you... But when you look into Christianity, you see a lot of errors, and errors is the open door for demonics spirits. I ask God, if i am in a wrong way show me the truth....And the Lord show me that all theses doctrines are from men, who have sinned and open a door to Satan to play with their mind, because with their doctrines they had the audacity and sin to explain God with their little brain.. Now i believe that God is not a Trinity, and not in a Oneness doctrine, and both doctrines have errors in them, because the Lord Jesus cannot agree with people that think and proclaim loud and clear that they have the Truth and they know more about God, it is the spirit of Lucifer at work, all i know it is that the Spirit of Christ dwell in a humble heart...

[@horetaepere8622]

God bless you , please God, and not man, make sure you tell the truth, by your words you will be justified and by your words you shall be condemned.

[@I.need.anewsong]

Been looking for God did the UPCI, Church of God and AoG. The Church of God and AoG treated me very good but I had trouble fitting inside the Church of God. I once heard someone say you got to find "your tribe" or those you can sync with and I am looking for it.

[@Mariana_hernandez_]

Y’all just need Jesus again 😂

[@honeyrose1384]

What the hell does that even mean? God is with us always. Its the evil mean spirited people in the church that mentally mess you up that enviably causes us to leave. Please unless you've been there dont comment with ignorance

[@CC-vw1nd]

@@honeyrose1384 Yes, but don't let the devil using those people to win! Thank God you see a problem and so you can endeavor to be that person who is a blessing to others! Be the light in the church, that people need to see. You know what you DON'T want to be, be the example.

[@honeyrose1384]

@@CC-vw1nd the funny thing is I did. I prayed everyday for hours, fasted 3 times a week, handed out pamphlets for the church, was mocked and ridiculed for wearing a skirt as a waitress at a restaurant, paid my tithes. They completely isolated me. They took my friend away that I had in the church (told her to stop talking to me) because it was "God's will" for my life. Yet as an adult, never talked to me about it and did this behind my back. Leaving me Isolated with nobody. I was 5 pounds away from being sent to in patient treatment for an eating disorder because of them. The people in the church were visibly jealous because I had a passion and desire for God they never had because God saved my life from drug addiction. My passion has been put out. I hope that they are happy because i will never be back. I hope people can get out of this brainwashing before it's too late. Ripping families apart. Telling me to break up with my fiance because he's not in church. As if their way is the only way. I don't have time for mind control and standards. I was vulnerable, 19 years old looking for love and thats where they left me. Right back where I left off because I didn't comply to their mind control.

[@CC-vw1nd]

@@honeyrose1384 I've been through some of that, I understand. I have some bad stories to tell, but won't here. It happened when I was younger and more vulnerable. Sounds like you were in a toxic church setting like I was. There are better ones. The key is don't focus on people or what they think. I'm older and wiser and will NOT tolerate my boundaries being violated. We learn from experiences.

[@dragonmaster9360]

"For I have come into the world not to judge the world but rather to seek and to save those that are lost". These same "legalistic saints" are the ones sitting around at a prayer meeting wanting to pray their children return to the church. Hummm..... why did they leave I wonder?

[@rizajoysalonoy6294]

Holiness works in the inside and it will be seen in the outside. I am Apostolic Pentecostal, and I am humble to say that I am favored and blessed by God because I am Apostolic Pentecostal. That's it!😊💞

[@kaylynn8696]

We are favored and blessed when we live by the Word of God. I never was encouraged to read the Bible until going to UPC. It isn't because I am an Apostolic Pentecostal, it is because I read the Word of God daily and know that my pastor is teaching truth.

[@maryhelencampos9964]

Riza it’s because of the Blood Of The Lamb not a church organization 😮Revelation reads “The True Church Of The Living GOD are those whose Robes are wash In The Blood Of The Lamb ❤

[@mindylee3754]

As someone born and raised in the UPC, I can attest to this letter.

[@leavingtheupci239]

Mindy Lee yes... I’m so sorry. Thank you for commenting.

[@hubertlancaster]

A lot of people say they left Christianity and were never in Christianity in the first place, and have no idea how to go about being a part of it. I repented, was baptized by immersion in water, according to Acts 2:38, and was filled with the Holy Ghost speaking in unknown tongue just like they did in the tenth chapter of Acts. I received the revelation that Jesus Christ was God Almighty in the flesh the only supreme God there is or ever will be. Jesus said, in John 5:39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. Some finally figure out that they were duped By false Christianity.

[@billiskra2073]

I am not going to say that there are not some UPC congregations with a good reputation . but unfortunately , there have been complaints about many UPC congregations in various places in the world .

[@diannegarcia3371]

Many are called, but few are chosen.

[@andreamichelle1]

If this young lady would connect with God, these issues will become irrelevant. The Bible says God keeps us in perfect peace when our mind is stayed on Him. I have left the UPC organization as well, but before I ever started going to church, the Lord told me what He wanted me to wear, I had to relinquish my form fitting jeans and I was okay with that because I wanted to please God. In Heaven, God decides what we will wear. I can understand many of her concerns, but we as followers of Christ, must connect with Him and stay connected with Him. We also must keep these church organizations in prayer. Every soul is precious.

[@leavingtheupci239]

Andrea Michelle, the statement “If this young lady would connect with God..” couldn’t be more judgmental. Sorry you feel the need to cast stones at this sweet, truthful girl.

[@thomasorcutt613]

Wrong. Urshan Graduate School in St Louis is an accredited Bible School

[@mrniceguy3750]

One question. What exactly is legalism? Or rather, how does this apply to Christianity? Just wondering, because didn't God write a bunch of laws back in the day.

[@AllSmiles006]

No laws? What about 10 commandments & over 600 ordinances!

[@rachelprice2421]

I grew up Pentecostal so sheltered from the out side world I did not even know that Hollywood was a thing any other music I could not go swimming so yeah it messed me up as a kid not allowed to hang out with any friends outside the church completely messed me up I'm awkward and I have horrible anxiety

[@losustubbs1936]

I’m sorry but this woman is just plain lying. So sad...for her.

[@leavingtheupci239]

LoSu Stubbs wow. Your judgement of her is incorrect. Stay in your lane.

[@losustubbs1936]

@@leavingtheupci239 It's' not about skirts. I don't know about THAT church. But MY A.P. church would never condemn people to hell for silly things like that. My church is so precious because the people (especially the ladies) are careful to include everyone in love. I've already been there for many years now. I'm just so heartbroken to think that there are people who hurt others over how they look. And why would you say "stay in your own lane?" I hope you won't judge one church and label all with their shortcomings. It isn't the name of a church. It's the Name of Jesus. Obedience to God's Word...what it says (whatever that may be) we do. But if we don't fall in love with Jesus we're wasting our time. When I said this woman is lying it was because ONE church or even some churches are not necessarily what one can go by, because there are ignorant people in every church. They are the ones who need to get right with God just as much as a sinner. Look...All I know is Jesus is coming soon! I want us all to be ready and go together and I'm talking about the girl in this video as well as you too. So at least obey the book of acts as well as all the examples that follow in Acts and you'll be good to go!❤ Don't concentrate on some Christian who can only judge people's outward appearance. Don't let them sour you against all of us. I love you.

[@leavingtheupci239]

LoSu Stubbs thanks for clarifying. She was telling her truth, and she’s a dear girl. I’m glad your experience has been different. It’s frustrating when strangers come on here and start judging. We are all just doing our best. I’m just trying to give people a place to share, find similar experiences, and know that they are not crazy for questioning legalism.

[@OneGodApostolic210]

@@leavingtheupci239 I hope she doesn't cause a Christian to stumble.

[@GC-fj4lc]

Nope. She speaks truth. Any growth in my life I attribute to leaving what I, without reservation, call a cult.

[@zarkoniangamer7807]

Found this letter relatable. I was born into it, but the points still hit home

[@leavingtheupci239]

Thanks for stopping by. Yes, many, many folks raised in it are making us aware of the pain inflicted on our precious young ones.

[@benmollitor3776]

I grew up Assembly of God . Thank Goodness we aren't like this !!!!! I used to work with a woman that went to the upc church. She told me everyone besides upc Christians were going to hell and they were the only right church.. She also told me I would go to hell because I used to have long hair...

[@bibletruthholinesschurch]

1 Timothy 2:9 King James Version In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array.

[@woodfloorsjohnny]

Hello from san Diego..👍❤🙏

[@leavingtheupci239]

Hi!

[@ompaloompa4970]

Men didn't wear " pants" in biblical times, I went to a Pentecostal church the preacher literally could NOT read. And he was preaching about shaving your legs saying women shouldn't be shaving their legs.. etc, etc.. bad experience for me. I didn't go back . I was saved at a young age , long story short- let's pray and lift each other up. And encourage other christians with kindness and love, let's not be hippocrates like the Pharisees and the Sadducees, or man made laws and rules...we do well to follow Christ.

[@gretakaveny4407]

Gee I see both sides but I never talked about someone’s dress sometimes I feel uncomfortable seeing some dress exposing their body

[@MzLPN]

Praying for to get a revelation that those feelings were just spirits of rebellion. May God open her eyes to his truth.

[@Xaforn]

That’s a very abusive thing to say. I have been in that situation multiple times as I was raised UPC. It is an organization, a relationship with Jesus is completely different. These standards they push are not found globally on the mission fields, it is predominantly found in North America and parts of Europe. Not to mention they are severely misunderstood and mistaught, no understanding of cultures past and present.

[@lisarobertson4485]

Since I got kicked out of the upc church I don't know where to go to church. What denomination do I go to? I still don't believe in trinity and I was told if I go to a trinity church I will go to hell. But also all the churches are a 501 c3 those are not churches either. I have no friends no family no christian fellowship I am totally alone and isolated and miserable. Please help me.

[@jackiehavea5849]

Hi Lisa - which country are you based?

[@harsenprem]

Why are you kicked out? Did you do something which isn't not right in GOD's eyes?

[@lisarobertson4485]

@@harsenprem no i did not

[@lisarobertson4485]

@@jackiehavea5849 usa

[@harsenprem]

@@lisarobertson4485 Hey beautiful, It's not about the church nor the people inside but the only thing that is really matter after all is serving our God 😇 We should only focus to Him and not the imperfections of the surroundings 😊

[@anthonybrenda3648]

Remember he died on the cross for you because he loves you our bodies and our life are supposed to be a living sacrifice for him we're supposed to deny our flesh daily and carry our cross so why don't you guys stop listening to the devil and listen to God

[@noecontreras7068]

Man made standard ??? But the standard was set by God ??

[@harsenprem]

It was made by GOD.

[@gretakaveny4407]

I might be bald the rest of my life thanks to chemo not because I cut or shaved it but that how it goes

[@leavingtheupci239]

No difference, I'm sure you're loved by God either way. Best to you!

[@Bob.55]

I sought God with all of my heart soul and mind from the time I was little boy well into my adult years and discovered that Yahweh is not God. I have never been more at peace and able to love people.

[@ricklori9065]

Best wishes!!

[@Bob.55]

@@ricklori9065 Thank you and same for you.

[@christtherockcristolaroca7974]

“Any one who does not follow the true. And for this cause God sendeth them a working of error, that they should believe a lie: that they all might be judged who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” ‭‭2 Thessalonians‬ ‭2:11-12‬ ‭ASV‬‬

[@billymimnaugh3998]

I’ve never been told once what to wear .EVER. But yes, as you get drawn into a closer relationship with the Lord you clean things up .So what ? If you don’t want to don’t .Have some courage and tell them get lost .

[@boomingbubblebus1470]

I just joined a Apostolic Pentecostal Church in my first one ever and they are not UPC or upeci or whatever ladies can wear pants men do not have to wear ties as long as you don't show up in shorts they're not going to look at you funny I love my Church

[@angelcal6612]

Why do do UPC allow women to preach.. Knowing in the holy scriptures that it is not suffered... It is not allowed in the churches of the saints?