What Is Assemblies of God? (Feat. The Guy In Charge of Assemblies of God)

[@hawks5999]

I grew up AG and knew Doug Clay from the time I was a teenager. He was the youth director for my state and I did a couple short term missions trips with him. What you saw in your interview is the same Doug Clay I knew 30 years ago. He’s a super genuine and generous guy. I haven’t been a part of an AG for quite awhile, but I really respect his vision for their churches. Thanks for doing a great interview with him.

[@shadowlands8490]

Good that is a good place to start from. Some pentecostal movements have gone completely NaR movement.

[@theirmom4723]

@@shadowlands8490 B/C AofG churches function independently, many have gone NAR...in my area we have 6-7 AofG churches and I know of 3 that are full blown NAR in teaching and one totters around it.

[@JJL-pr4gl]

@@theirmom4723what does NAR mean? I am starting to go and I want to really understand if it’s a good place to go to. I am former Jehova’s witness

[@loria474]

I loved this video! I went to an AG church for Sunday school from K to 6th grade because my parents wanted a free babysitter. I will be forever grateful for the ladies there that got us to memorize scripture by rewarding us with little gifts. My family moved after that and I had some very difficult and traumatic experiences but the scriptures I had memorized came back to me and raised me up out of the pit of my own making I found myself in. I’ve never really known what AG was about other than the emphasis on memorizing scripture for kids so I loved learning about it. From my own memories, I’m not surprised that they are based on the firm foundation of Jesus.

[@inhizownimij]

Aww as one of those teachers who loves to help my kids memorize scripture, it’s so uplifting to hear that it helped you.

[@darthcole2584]

Amen sister.

[@sdthyng]

But . . . the real question is "Is it the church that JESUS built, or is it a church built by men?"

[@mannyruiz1954]

​@@sdthyngyeah I get it. I was raised AG. Today I am Catholic. Despite what pentecostals/evangelicals think of the RCC, we all agree that Jesus is our Savior. We follow Him through the Church and Sacred Tradition.

[@RonaldDPotts]

Great video, Matt. I love these denominational interview videos and the honesty, sincerity, and grace that you use in them, allowing the person to speak of their faith and doctrines for themselves without your interpretation shading the presentation. Great work. 👏👏

[@davidoslin7760]

Matt, I am convinced that God is using you, as well others, as His answer to Jesus' prayer in John 17:20-26. It's so refreshing to see us learning that we can love one another freely by understanding each other better. Keep up the good work and may God continue to bless you mightily.

[@rh10033]

My husband and I have been so distraught by all of the divison within the body of Christ. So many denominations don't even consider anyone outside of their tradition to be a Christian. It's awful! I am praying for unity. After all, it's our apologetics to the world that Jesus Christ is Lord!!

[@shadowlands8490]

Correct, the basis for Christian credibility is not "doctrinal supremacy", but Christ centered doctrine accuracy. And to be Christian, there's to teach all people the accuracy of Christian theology and community. It's a not a war against anyone else but a ministry unto God. Some seminaries teach it's a man centered reward to teach their doctrine until you are able to condemn others in their beliefs.

[@faithhopejoywithpastormari9069]

I’m an AG ordained minister. Thank you for interviewing Doug Clay. He accurately represented us. You did a great job in this interview and I wish we could all work better for unity of belief.

[@MiscMitz]

Hi Matt. I "agree" with the focus on the gifts. It makes me feel off... I have however witnessed an amazing healing. My foster mother was deaf. We were attending an non denominational church with 2 separate pastors. One was Southern Baptist and one was Lutheran. Pastor Bob, the Baptist pastor, laid hands on her ears and prayed for her. She said that she heard a load pop and she could hear. To this day, she still has incredible hearing. All this to say that I don't understand how He works but that He sometimes does.

[@sacredsteeler]

That's the mystery. Miracles happen almost daily in a "hot" church, almost to the point that it's often forgotten by the next church service. I love theology, but it's hubris to try to understand every step how God works.

[@queenria7]

Wow!! Thanks for sharing! I just started reading the book "True Stories of the Miracles of Azusa Street", and it's mind blowing! (Azusa Street is where AoG originated from)

[@houseofjesseworship]

Wow, praise God!

[@ChristsNationTV]

The Ten minute bible hour has been such a great inspiration for me. Am excited each time i see a notification from your channel. I have been able to learn about other churches and their fundamental beliefs. God bless you.

[@cmac1100]

Its so weird seeing where I work on ten minute Bible hour 🤣

[@krystopherscroggins3044]

My first thought was, "Hey! It's the blue vatican!" Hahaha

[@PartyCreate]

They didn't go down the flag hall! Bummer. 😂

[@shadowlands8490]

Assembly of God teaches to Repent and Believe. That is the Gospel. But they also teach to remain repentant , which is also a biblical doctrine.

[@romanthechristian5237]

I know lol I don’t work there, but I live in the Ozarks and I actually went to middle school on the same street

[@davidkunze2770]

Shadow lands, repent and believe, means to turn to the cross, and to Him alone for salvation. If real, it will last a life time. (See the thief on the cross and Paul to jailer in Acts.) Blessings

[@jakehumphrey1213]

Matt I’m so glad that you clarified that we in the AoG don’t believe that you have to speak in tongues to be saved and our belief in the Trinity. Some very small sects have twisted Pentecostal doctrine.

[@RonaldDPotts]

We deal with that in the Four Square church, and it is something consistent, and wrong, ideal in Pentecostalism

[@RonaldDPotts]

Btw, there's quite a lot similarity between AoG and Four Square. The first four things he cites of faith in the Kingdom is the creed of Four Square

[@texashoosier7318]

UPC is not 'very small.'

[@jakehumphrey1213]

@@texashoosier7318 sorry, I’m comparing to the roughly 70M worldwide membership of the AoG. Last I saw, the UPCI was around 5M.

[@stevenwiederholt7000]

There are those who for various reasons want to make Christianity more includionary (if that's a real word :-)) and Complicated than it really is. For me if someone accepts the Nicene & Apostles creed Any Version...you're in the Club. But that's just me.

[@Toneeeeee23]

As part of the AG church and an avid watcher of your videos, this was a great conversation! I love the way Doug verbalized the core beliefs. Sometimes we get the “Pentecostal” label thrown at us which some might see as a focus on the gifts rather than theology. We are church who loves God, loves people, loves scripture. The reason we live out miracles is because we truly do believe they are biblical, that along with every other aspect of faith and Christian doctrine.

[@justineimperial282]

Amen Same now in this modern time, It gave me more confidence to say I'm part of AG and this pentecostal movement.

[@MarthePassoli]

@@justineimperial282 oh yes!

[@danielconner8870]

My uncle (John Stetz) was the missionary to South Korea who planted a Bible college and trained Dr David Yonggi Cho and helped him in establishing his church. My wife and I are AG and are on our way as Missionaries to plant churches in France.

[@Kenny-wr3ky]

Stop on by Crossroads in Greenville Tx during your mission raising stage of you can. We're a smaller Church around 150 but we're big givers. God bless the work that is ahead of you.

[@edwinholcombe2741]

I was brought up AG and from a family who were with AG from the beginning. There is so much the AG has given me that I appreciate so much like respecting God for who he is, grounding me in the Word etc. Although I am not with the AG I still feel I identify with them and agree with their Pentecostal distinctives. I left for Presbyterian church and now Methodist because of my carreer moving me around where AG was not an option. And the blessings I have recieved by learning from Presbyterians and Methodists are immeasuable. I've grown to love them so much. I'm not against returning to AG if the situation presents itself but above all it is Jesus and his will I try to set as my goal - not any denomination.

[@BobbySmith-ek9fl]

I’m AG and have been for all of my walk with Messiah. And this video was super helpful even for me to learn about AG. I actually just saw Pastor Doug at the National Fine Arts/National Youth Conference we had. Awesome guy. I love how y’all’s conversation is so civil and friendly. That’s exactly what I wanna encourage to be done throughout denominational conversations!

[@tigerboy1966]

Matt is a great listener which is what makes these conversations so good. I'd be chipping in every few seconds with "Yes, but...", "so what you're saying is...", "are you seriously suggesting that..." etc. It's a great gift Matt, keep on using it.

[@k.s.m.1197]

Hi Matt , i was wondering if you can make a video about the Amish .

[@XSquibX]

That would be quite difficult. Amish tend to strongly push for being humble and humility and part of that is not posing for paintings, pictures, videos etc. Many consider putting yourself in your "best light" to be prideful, hence their humble attire and somewhat dodging the public eye.

[@genesisp3884]

@@XSquibX Maybe just Audio then

[@isaiahstruve2224]

Yeah! Or another anabaptist group!

[@kimberlytroutner567]

Probably find more success in speaking with other Anabaptist groups: the Mennonites, or Brethren congregations.

[@JosiahR1]

And other anabaptist groups like Mennonites

[@chris2fur401]

I’m a pastor in the church of God (Cleveland, Tn) denomination. The AG is basically our cousins in theology lol. Great video and Doug Clay did a great job explaining things.

[@inconnu4961]

Cleveland Tennessee, huh? Who is that famous Pastor who has a church there, that i watch his program on KZbin, and own a few of his books? What is his name? LOL Seriously, I attended a Church of God as a child, walked away from the LORD for about 12 years, then was invited to an Assemblies of God church by a co-worker. Be blessed, Pastor!

[@chris2fur401]

@@inconnu4961 Perry stone? Jentzen Franklin? Thank you!

[@bkbff]

Yep, white COGIC pastors decided they needed to segregate, so they formed the AG

[@MattDeras]

I loved this. Doug was so clear and communicated well. Thanks for all you do, Matt. I do think you are bringing people together in understanding each other. We are the body of Christ and we must be gracious to each other. Personal Story: As someone who has worked as a staff pastor in an A/G for over 10 years now, I can say that one of the great challenges of the modern A/G church is that we want to build mature Christians who are driven to tell others about the gospel. My relationship with the Holy Spirit, to me, adds a depth to my relationship with Christ and affects how I live out that “go tell” part of the great commission. I think there are those who unfortunately focus on sensationalism and maybe focus too much on “gifts” as Doug said. But I think the heart of who we are as a fellowship is about mature faith, a relationship with Christ (which is deepened with the gift of the Holy Spirit, though “gifts” are not required for Salvation), and an importance on being personally passionate about empowering myself and others to “go and tell”.

[@joshuas1834]

Thanks for your gentleness and humility Matt! I was actually surprised to hear you call yourself reformed because you have got to be the kindest calvanist I've ever seen (maybe tied with Preston Sprinkle). People in the reformed tradition have not typically been very tolerant of my non-Calvinist views and people in the Pentecostal tradition have been really intolerant of my partial-cessationist views. Love your channel and your podcast too!

[@MattWhitmanTMBH]

Thank you, though I'd say I'm solidly reformedish.

[@recelehberger1603]

This was awesome! I grew up in a baptist church in Colorado. I am now 22 and president of chi alpha campus ministry at the University of Colorado colorado springs (I am only telling you that because we need some prayer for revival on campus if anyone reading this wouldn't mind helping out). Chi Alpha is the AG college ministry, we are on campuses across the world. What I like most about the AG is the structure of missions and the attitude of being doers. Growing up baptist was great because I was very grounded in the word, but I think the difference in the AG is that attitude of reading it, and then partnering with the Lord in doing it. AG people want everything the Lord has to offer, it is a very go get after it attitude and I love it. Now I'm interviewing to be a youth pastor at an AG church in Colorado springs. This was an awesome interview to help me in this moment of trying to decide what denomination I am going to pursue serving in long term, thanks Matt

[@XSquibX]

What I've found in my years growing up in a Baptist church and occasionally visiting other churches, like the local Assemblies Of God... Baptists tend to be great planners, but execution and passion can be a bit lack luster. Usually the "production" of whatever they do goes well, but getting people to be a part of it can be tough. Assemblies Of God is kinda the opposite. They tend to be a bit more disorganized and I say this without disrespect, but scatterbrained. Usually their passion and effort goes past the disorganization / lack of planning though and is just as effective as the "well planned" events I see in the Baptist circle. Now if only we could share the open passion of the Assemblies Of God with the planning and preparation of the Baptists and then you'd have the whole package haha

[@dpcrn]

@@XSquibX I think you see that combination of her a lot more in other countries. Missionaries from the different denominations depend on each other.

[@XSquibX]

@@dpcrn I must apologize. I am unsure what you mean with the first half of your comment.

[@frederickngwenya4082]

That was a great interview and Doug has really represented the AOG that it actually is. As members of this WORD rooted denomination AOG we give him a thumbs up for representing the church well. Lots of love from South Africa 🇿🇦 ❤

[@inconnu4961]

Lots of Love to you, Brother Frederick, and to all our fathful brothers & sisters in ZA, from the US!

[@peterjones2377]

Matt, thank you so much for your work in educating all members of God’s church about each other part of the one body that we comprise. As someone that was raised Roman Catholic and who has moved over the past 40 years via Presbyterian, Anglican, Baptist, and Reformed to now being part of Hillsong (which has grown out of AoG) then I appreciate how powerfully and effectively you can help us all appreciate each other’s parts in our Lord’s plan for this world.

[@AustinBurch1]

I’ve been waiting on this vid for a while! I’m glad you were able to film it

[@d3w4yn3]

Wow!!! This is great!!! I've been an AG kind of a guy for many, many years (decades even), and an AG Pastor for a few years, and although there is nothing surprising or unexpected about Doug Clay (he's the real deal! and God uses him effectively!), it was also great to see your objectivity, your grace and your commitment to keeping your eyes wide open, recognizing that it's okay to not fully understand everything about each other, or to even have different perspectives while still being in the same family! Really, you didn't use this term, but you saw and appreciated a clear distinction between doctrine and cardinal doctrine, and recognized the unity that is still possible between any two people or groups that share the same faith! The unbelieving world, and many legalists in the believing world don't have that kind of unity (it's actually a unity of the Spirit!), and I'm so glad to be part of a movement that encourages and expects exploration like yours! When you said "that's what I'm paying to see" I almost blew rootbeer out of my nose! But I'm right there with you! I find your observations and your thought processes to be incredibly honest and refreshing! So glad I found this!!!

[@danggood]

Growing up AG, I have had to struggle really hard to develop my biblical understanding and worldview. I was very focused, in my own faith, on the feelings and the goosebumps. and then when I couldn't make myself "feel" God's presence, I felt incredibly inadequate and distanced from God. I was immature. and 10 minute bible hour has helped me learn a ton more and develop a deeper understanding of the Word. I consider myself an intellectual, trying to balance that with the emotional side of things. EXPERIENCE with God is important, but it is NOT above the Word. the Word needs to be foundational. and I am learning that and loving it. thanks, Matt.

[@danggood]

@Circuit Rider I get that. I'm not in a place where i agree with AG doctrines fully. i have had experiences of speaking in tongues, and i still feel that there was authenticity there for my personal faith, but i didn't really like how he answered the question about what place it has in someone's faith. so I'm still swimming in a little uncertainty here. which i think is okay. Trusting in God's grace that if I'm a little off on something, he can still work in me, through me, and it will work out in the end. not to say I'm eager to continue on in error, I'm open to correction, but yeah, gotta keep swimming...

[@JoshJ12]

Woah this is exactly what my experience was. My immaturity sky rocketed where I was blasphemous. Now I am seeking redemption and also trying to understand that the Word is complex and I cannot simplify it because once I do and things don't turn out the way I wanted, blasphemy occurs.

[@biblelife527]

This is such a great idea! Most people get their info on other denominations from their own denomination through the lens of their pastor or Leader. Its a double edged sword because on one hand its good to trust your leader for this type of info, but it also leaves alot of room for his own personal bias. But what your doing takes that away! Straight from the knowledgeable leaders of their denominations to our ears, and the questions you ask and the way you break them down....just awesome, pure awesomeness! Thank you for these videos! They are truly amazing!

[@PartyCreate]

This is so great. Doug Clay is the man. So thankful for his leadership.

[@emmanuelagyei8387]

I am a blessed ans proud AG member and i am humbled you did an interview of us 😊❤

[@sstockwell5519]

I appreciate when Doug says, "We still have a lot more commonality in the body of Christ than we do separation..." (And also before that when Matt says "Venn diagram"! Love a good graphic organizer...!) :) Thank you, both, for your time and work!!!

[@revbrentcolby]

Thanks Matt and Doug. Great conversation and reflection on the AoG.

[@kevinekvall4081]

I loved this interview! I didn't have a clue what AG was previously and I just praise God for the enthusiasm, clear communication, and grace both Doug and Matt brought to the conversation. You guys made my evening 🙂

[@lindat929]

This is awesome. I went to an AOG church and was very concerned about some of the things I was hearing...so I left and found a great Baptist church. Doug Clay is very impressive and has opened my heart that they aren't all so misguided as the church I attended. Thank you for this video!

[@BrotherhoodWorkshop]

I married into an AG family, and dang those people get stuff done.

[@rev.edwardmartinez468]

Thank you for this video, it clearly and wisely expresses what the AG are about. The sincerity and clarity of the Superintendent was great. It was not a prepared statement, but a sincere and heart felt explanation of who the AG is and where they are going. I am glad that we are not loosing our Pentecostalism, but not letting it divide us from our other brethren who are part of the body of Christ.

[@Mediamessengers]

What I love about AG is they are SUPER missions minded.

[@MarthePassoli]

Yes we are!🎉🙌🏾

[@JeanmarieRod]

And they teach the heresy that a saved believer can lose his salvation, plus are LOADED with false converts bc of that and other heresies they teach

[@Mediamessengers]

@@JeanmarieRod hmm? What creates more false converts "Once saved always saved" or "You can walk away from the Lord" ?

[@darrenwithers3628]

Super money makers

[@Mediamessengers]

@@darrenwithers3628 What??

[@bootsontheground3047]

I like the way your not focused on debating, but seem to be focused on ecumenism. Keep it up brother. I know you've covered Catholicism some, I look forward to seeing more in the future. God bless from Arkansas!

[@brodym661]

Hey Matt, I just wanted to say I really appreciate these videos. I’m actually currently in a ministry training internship through the AG’s college ministry Chi Alpha. This video (as well as pretty much every other video/podcast you’ve done) has really helped me as I’ve wrestled with some of the things that I’ve learned about the AG and Christianity in general over my 5 and a half years of being a Christian. Thanks!

[@justineimperial282]

Proudly to say I am saved by Accepting Jesus as my Personal Savior and Lord, it was definitely just a bonus but definitely a great privilege as well to be an AG member. God Bless Brethren!

[@dimesonhiseyes9134]

As someone that has grown up in the AG churches and similar pentecostal churches thank you for being genuine and honest. We may not unite under the same exact teachings. But we as brothers and sisters can all unite for our love of Jesus Christ. And 🍕 we can all unite under our love for pizza.

[@matthewterry9413]

Sorry… pizza is the most overrated food in all human history lol

[@dimesonhiseyes9134]

@@matthewterry9413 there is just no excuse for having taste that bad. Pizza is one of the greatest foods of all time. Just about every culture independently developed a "pizza" on its own. If a culture developed bread they then shortly thereafter developed a "pizza". Pizza is ubiquitous with the human experience. If you don't like pizza you might as well say "I like beating puppies with kittens". There I said it.

[@matthewterry9413]

@@dimesonhiseyes9134 lol pizza is the lowest quality food available. Children’s party food.

[@lovemuffin4521]

I went to a AoG school I enjoyed my time there. I have some disagreements with speaking of tongues but I do appreciate their love for God. The other side can learn from them when it comes to evangelism and letting the Holy Spirit work in them

[@Katiemadonna3]

I love how they worship, the speaking and feeling draws me in even if I don’t agree with all the beliefs

[@ChristianSalzillo]

Been following TMBH for several years now; been A/G since 9th grade. I thoroughly loved this video! Thanks for visiting Springfield, Matt!

[@kellylave13]

I fully agree to this message. Thank you GS Doug Clay. God bless you more and more. Greetings from AOG Europa Mission Centre, Switzerland ♥

[@timbryant8152]

LOVE this series! I go to an AG church, and coming from a Southern Baptist background I had many of the same questions.

[@jamesrogers6297]

Love the way this was put together. Very respectful all the way around

[@edwardzionsaji3445]

I'm from a city in India called Bangalore. There are lots of AG churches all over the city. The biggest one is called Bethel AG, I think.

[@OatPancake]

Glad you’re doing AoG. You should check out a Hispanic or Spanish speaking AoG church.

[@Kenny-wr3ky]

My AoG church is about about 25-30% spanish. Our associate pastor is spanish. He teaches a all spanish Sunday school class. We also have a retired teacher that teaches a free ESL class that uses the Bible to teach english.

[@OatPancake]

@@Kenny-wr3ky glad y’all are reaching the Spanish speaking community. It’s much needed in many areas.

[@MarthePassoli]

Erik Merales French speaking AG too!

[@joebridger3027]

When I was at Bethel Seminary in Saint Paul MN they explained that the largest "families" of the Christian movement are now 4 fold. Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant and Pentecostal. The professor, who was not pentecostal, explained that in the last 115 years the pentecostal movement has grown so large and so fast and become so established around the world like Doug said, moreso outside of the US than inside for the A/G that among theologians it is now categorized as it's own branch of the Christian faith, although it grew out of protestantism it's modern expression is so adhered to by so many that it belongs in it's own branch with the more ancient expressions of Christian faith. A/G is just one of 15-20 large Christian pentecostal expressions worldwide. But A/G is the largest. Which is amazing given the reality that before they established their 16 fundamentals they nearly imploded as a fledgling organization because of disagreements over what was to be held in higher esteem, the word of God (Bible) or the voice of the Holy Spirit speaking today. Fortunately they made the decision that the Word of God and it's Sovereignty must be the foundation and if someone shares something they believe is from the Holy Spirit, but it doesn't align with scripture, then that person would be in error. The fellowship is also an increasingly liquid denomination that holds tight fisted to their doctrine, but loosely to the methods in which they administer the functionality of their churches world wide. Their sovereignty can at times be a double edged sword on a smaller local level. But it's their individual sovereignty as churches within their network that allows for freedom of expression, creativity and hearing from the Holy Spirit in a way that allows for cultural flexibility. Houston Texans A/G churches can be different from NYC A/G churches and different from A/G churches in Seattle, Nigeria or South Korea....and that's allowed, ok and even celebrated.

[@darlameeks]

I received the Baptism with the Holy Spirit and prayer language when I was an 18 year-old college student in a tiny non-denominational church. That experience made a great big difference in my walk with the Lord (I had come from the Southern Baptist tradition). I have visited many an AoG church, as well as Catholic and Anglican/Episcopalian charismatic services. I am an Episcopalian today, attending a church that does not manifest the sign gifts of the Holy Spirit, though I am not the only charismatic in our congregation. (The Episcopal Church did experience the charismatic movement in the 1980's that this brother mentioned. Many of them have left the Episcopal church to form American Anglican churches due to the schism over LGBTQ issues, which is fine. I was led to stay in the Episcopal Church.) It should be noted that the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby and theologian and former Bishop of Durham N.T. Wright both pray in tongues as a part of their private devotions...there is an impression, I think, that charismatics are all uneducated or non-intellectual, and that is just plain false. I have experienced and witnessed physical healings, by the way. You just have to hang out in the right circles.

[@cruzerm8681]

Thanks Matt, for making these videos. They are very informative. I enjoy them very much. Happy Thanksgiving. GOD bless you. 🙏

[@shawngillogly6873]

Thanks for doing this Matt. Having been accredited with the CMA, and attending SBC and EV Free churches in the past as well, it's taken a long time (probably too long) to recognize that what a church does to empower its members to promote the Kingdom is infinitely more important than whether I agree on every point of doctrine. It's easy to target "excess," of zeal in the Church. But in an Evangelical movement that would often have to apologize to Laodicea, maybe a bit more zeal and openness to all the Spirit has for us isn't a bad thing.

[@Moscoviya2009]

After watching this video, I'm no longer embarrased for being "Evangelical" and "Fundamentalist". No shame in being a Fundamentalist and Evangelical Christian. The devil can try to hinder us through secular political culture but the devil will fail. I believe in Jesus Christ and the Bible is the Word of God! Amen!

[@justineimperial282]

Same!!!! God Bless you Brethren

[@MissCarlyJoy]

The Bible condones and encourages genocide, rape of concubines, slavery, polygamy, incest.... I’d reconsider being comfortable as a “fundamentalist.”

[@lordmosess1]

@@MissCarlyJoy I'm so sorry you believe God condones that. Just because something is mentioned, does not mean it is approved. As a "conservative" I spent five years at Bible collage learning the full death and historical references. Biblical and non. If the "God of the new testament" is know as a God of love. Consider, "God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Try to see through the truth glasses, not ones with angry lenses. God is good. All the time, he is Goød. Goød luck on your journey

[@MissCarlyJoy]

@@lordmosess1 the New Testament has lots of problems too… like being very anti-woman. And yes, when god rewards the people committing these acts for their “faithfulness” he’s telling them they did a good job. For instance, can you point to any piece of scripture where Sarah/Sarai does a good thing?

[@MissCarlyJoy]

@@lordmosess1 “if a man sells his daughter as a slave, she shall not be freed at the end of six years as the men are. If she does not please the man who bought her, then he shall let he be bought back again; he has no power to sell her to foreigners, since he has wronged her by no longer wanting her after he married her.” Exodus 21:7-8 This is God’s law -buy a female slave to use as a wife I didn’t even look this up I just literally opened a Bible and found this on the page I opened. It’s everywhere in the Torah and beyond. Your god not only condones but instructs his people to have slaves, concubines, and because these female slaves can’t consent, rape them.

[@AtrusGambit]

1:58 This is all I needed to hear all year. Lovely.

[@miguelangelous]

Totally agree 💯

[@katrinalodge6055]

I believe that speaking in tounges is what bought me back or kept me in touch with God during the nearly 40 years I was back sliden.. I would periodically speak in tounges, it was only one or 2 words, but I needed to know I was communicating with God when I consciously couldn't pray.. I came back through an over flowing of the holy spirit when I got down on my Knees and repented. I now have a whole new language..I asked God for an interpretation of what had been saying.. and he showed me I was asking him not to forsake me!!! Hallelujah he has not!

[@sandralewis328]

Thanks Matt, I'm in an AoG church too, like so many others commenting. I love your channel and see you as an awesome brother in Christ, thank you for seeking unity within the body. Unity and diversity are basic concepts in the New Testament, they are within each local body and the broader church. I often pray for the other church denominations within my community as I think we should have (and we often do) love and good will toward each other. Blessings and shalom!

[@oogalook]

Golly, great job by Doug. I love his openness and his bravery. Seems like a guy who wants to save souls; who can say no to that? Get after it, I say. Good stuff. Also great job by him to turn it around on you for a minute there. You deserve big props too, Matt. You're making a big Mission of this channel yourself!

[@TheJuddly]

Matt I am Roman Catholic, love your videos. I have been called to work to unify all us Christians, Assembly of God is my first church i plan to talk to and invite to the Church. I hope to talk to you about my mission one day and just and fyi, I will talk to you and your amazing beautiful Church one day also : ) God Bless you my brother and love your videos :)

[@TheJuddly]

I sent you an email on your website! Cant wait to hear back and dont feel obliged to respond asap, take your time i bet you receive a lot of them!

[@JeanmarieRod]

Doctrine is important. The RCC is teaching a different gospel like the AG is.

[@TheJuddly]

@@JeanmarieRod yeah possibly so. Catholic Church has the Church and Bible is the main difference, we have an authority to make sure doctrine is taught the same throughout the entire Church while AOG has differences amongst the Churches.

[@liamariloutenkah8489]

@@JeanmarieRod Purgatory, pedophile priests, the Eucharist, and the obsession of Mary are just a few red flags. Let's not forget that Catholics believe they are the one and only true church. LoL

[@kevinpritchard3592]

Another well put together and articulated video, thanks for the passion and grace that is shown in all your videos. My dad was an evangelist that spoke in all sorts of churches, denominations, and traditions. Even Quaker churches at times. We are all part of the same family, but just like siblings, we are unique, and that is ok.

[@ZachBusickMusic]

Man, I really appreciate your honesty, sincerity, and epistemological humility. It's refreshing. Especially seeing those things from someone from a reformed tradition, from which I have some serious baggage & wounds. Tbh, I find myself getting ready to cringe when I start one of your videos, thinking I'm going to hear something that will get under my skin. But your sincerity & humility are very disarming. I feel like I can actually listen to you and learn from you (even when you say things I might disagree with) without my ears getting hot and my stomach twisting into knots. Keep it up! Thanks for all you're doing.

[@Schoolhousefilms121]

I was raised Assembly of God and thank you for checking it out!

[@mikefromoh2925]

Real nice to see the grace and genuine generosity on both sides. Y’all keep up the good work.

[@halfmanhalfspirit2303]

I’ve been healed and Baptized in HS. I was like you, never thought that was real. It is!

[@trevorreads]

As a youth pastor in the AG I just wanted to say I really enjoyed this video! :)

[@magicw7338]

How does the AG treat catechesis?

[@stevenhamilton5238]

What an awesome interview. So good to see the brotherhood between you two during the interview. Total Kingdom mindset for both of you! Congrats!

[@Rev_rider775]

I became a Christian through an AG church back in 1987. Through them. I've been on a mission trip to Japan and Mexico. When I went to an AG college. I had breakfast almost everyday with the president of the college. Plus had dinner at his house with him and his family. I was a "no one special ". Just a guy from a small Nevada town. I had the best time in that church.

[@moriahthompson7659]

Thanks for doing this interview. Really enjoyed it and your honesty and openness.

[@robt2151]

Thank you, Matt. These interviews are very informative and enlightening, and your manner of conducting them is a model of graciousness. I belong to a denomination which recognises each local church congregation as autonomous, having a direct relationship with God and led by its own local leadership as guided by the Holy Spirit. Consequently, when I see a large edifice, be it a building, a denomination, a political party or a legislative body, I immediately see red flags. No matter how tolerant the leadership may be, once you become associated with such an organisation then you are open to outsiders making assumptions about you based on their limited understanding of what that organisation might stand for. To reuse the example used in the video, popular opinion then views you, by default, as part of a "voting block".

[@stevenwiederholt7000]

We could use some Missionaries from Nigeria and South Korea!

[@TGuard00014]

I actually met a missionary from South Korea on the street in San Antonio a couple of years ago, it was a little surreal.

[@stevenwiederholt7000]

@@TGuard00014 As surreal as saying men can have periods....American is a racist nation... we are 10 years away from the end of civilization as we know it?

[@aizamanatad4057]

i think all assemblies of God have the same heartbeat and passion and joy, and that is reaching out people, sharing Gods love and forgiveness to them, we want to see more people putting their faith in Christ and serve Him and not to our religion, but building a strong relationship with Christ... its not our priority to preach about our church, its our priority and joy to preach Christ.

[@JonStallings]

Outstanding as always Matt. I really appreciate how you try to take an unbiased approach. It was also great to here from AG that the gospel is the main thing. I am part of Foursquare and we are very similar to AG.

[@rayannekennedy2642]

I am considering moving to Springfield, and even applying for a job at this organization. I’ve grown up baptist my whole life but am so drawn to this church but still had unknowns and wanted to get a clear picture on what AG really is and what they do. This is as SO incredibly helpful thank you. What a great video

[@frennysala7039]

Hello there, I'm an AG member and I'm glad to tell you that we took a Baptist lady in because in our area, there's no Baptist church to be seen around. Of course, we let her keep her Baptist identity while attending our church. Her husband is RC but at least is tolerant enough to let her attend our church, in fact her son sometimes sings during the tithing part of the service.

[@Spirit1443]

I just want to testify that I did a separate prayer after being saved that resulted in a spiritual baptism. I think that everyone has their own personal relationship with God that results in different experiences that are meant to help mold us by our Father in Heaven. All though I have experienced spiritual baptism and our host hasn't, he is pushing unity in a way on a bigger platform then I ever have. Both are different but just as real and biblically accurate and personal to God and ourselves. Unify the Body! Amen!

[@jaythomas3180]

The guy in charge of the Assemblies of God... thought you were going to interview God!

[@RaeiFlames]

Exactly, that the only Being In charge of Us (AoG)

[@justineimperial282]

Indeed it was just a genuine interview, just wow! God Bless you brother

[@matthewterry9413]

Looool

[@kingofrexdale8598]

Loved listening to Doug ! Super kind & friendly and you can clearly tell his passion for Christ and how he treasures scripture! Fantastic

[@ChukwuebukaGabriel-rb7bs]

Great video. I like AG and their thoroughness in teaching the word of God

[@erinkimmel9479]

So fantastic, this is the thing you do that I think is the most important right now. It is so important for Christians to realize how much they do agree on and come together when necessary. I'm denominationally homeless because I'm still thinking it through and I'm OK with that.

[@vivettek4104]

thank you for doing these interviews Matt - its interesting to learn about different denominations they way you present it - keep up the awesome work :)

[@TheNatedogg56]

Love these videos! Always interesting to see other traditions in the body of Christ. Would love to see a Presbyterian denomination represented sometime if that’s possible.

[@steveningram9557]

I like these videos because I see so many people on social media arguing about (insert topic) instead of what they can agree on.

[@benrandall89]

Awesome job, thanks for posting and for being honest.

[@flamingswordapologetics]

Good interview, encouraging. I'm with you on the sign gifts and my position on it. Unity is great, but not at any cost and figuring out just where that line is, is what makes it so difficult. Thought provoking for sure.

[@XSquibX]

Thanks for visiting another denomination and exploring a little bit more with us. I must admit, I wish there were some more questions asked.... but at the same time, I'm unsure what you would ask. haha Assemblies Of God seems to pretty much overlap with Baptists, Methodists and Presbyterians on almost everything, just with an additional belief in accessible miraculous power from the Spirit through faith.

[@appledude08]

I really like these videos, its kool to see how everyone is super down to earth to just talk! I used to attend a spanish speaking AoG, have a few family members who are pastors and missionaries. Most ethnic churches are "spiritual" than our american english speaking brothers. Currently im actually "that fraction of pentecostals" believer. I dont have anything against my fellow evangelical brothers and sisters. I think its awesome though your branching to see differences and how we are all basically one. Cant wait till your next video!!!

[@joshpeterson1999]

You should explore more explicitly that "humility buffer" (what if our theology is wrong) with people. That's a really valuable question I think. Great video!

[@sandscribbler]

It seems to me that something similar is happening with the term "evangelical" (at least in the USA) as what happened a few decades ago to the word "fundamentalist." It means one thing to the insiders, and something else entirely to outsiders.

[@j.g.4942]

Yeah, I think I've heard maybe 4 different ways of using the term. For one thing it was the original name for Lutherans and is still kept in most churches from that tradition.

[@ravissary79]

If might be because the only time the media uses the term is as a voting block. It suits their anti Christian narrative to only view us as an evil big bad wolf.

[@misskitty285]

@@j.g.4942 Right or wrong though it may be, Lutherans seem to have dropped the 'evangelical' at least in the English-speaking world. (It's the 'Lutheran Church in Ireland' but Evangelisch-Lutherisch in Germany.) In Germany we still use it, because you can distinguish between the two things (evangelisch and evangelical, the latter of which makes some people a bit sceptical) linguistically.

[@j.g.4942]

@@misskitty285 yeah, same in Australia. It's for ease of communication, yet the pastors of the Lutheran Church Australia LCA are ordained into the Evangelical Lutheran church and confess the Evangelical confessions of the Book of Concord. There's also a small synod using an old name of Australian Evangelical Lutheran church AELC. But again mostly in interchurch things we just say Lutheran for ease of communication.

[@MissCarlyJoy]

Fundamentalism is working within a literal, classic interpretation of the Bible. Evangelicals believe in converting others to their way. I don’t think anyone, “inside” or “outside” is confused.

[@DavidReyes-qn1bq]

I’m in the Assemblies of God & honestly every church is very unique. You can go to very biblical AG churches and to very, let’s say, low biblical knowledge AG churches.

[@longtalltexan1867]

Same for the CoG. But I'd be willing to bet its that way for most "evangelical" denominations.

[@Drspeiser]

@@longtalltexan1867 Yeah, I think that's a very good point! You're surely going to find some variation in whichever denomination you look at.

[@GPRA-eg1io]

I grew up in the Assemblies of God and I have to say that it was refreshing to hear someone who’s AG say that being Pentecostal shouldn’t be about politics.

[@MarthePassoli]

Amen! We're beyond politics!☺️

[@Mierla406]

1960’s AG supported people who said they wouldn’t go to war. We have always been a house of peace and no politics. Just God and helping the community.

[@bkbff]

​@@Mierla406 Tell that to my parents and the church I grew up in.

[@Mierla406]

@@bkbff their church is in the wrong, that’s not the foundations of AG, AG is anti war, anti politics, and shouldn’t get involved. Your parents should have walked out of those door and found a different one. I’m sorry you were brought up in that. Truly sorry.

[@bkbff]

@@Mierla406 The AG is congregational with a lot of church autonomy. There is A LOT of politics in certain regions and certain congregations.

[@MrAmejias]

This was a great interview!

[@frennysala7039]

I am a member of the Assembly of God. Unfortunately, there are people out there who brand us as a cult. I don't hear it every day here (in my country) at least but I've heard a few in the internet that do. Of course, within the Assembly of God, I can tell you growing up, the older ones would have discussions during Sunday School. In those discussions, heresies were spotted like "No tithing, no salvation". My grandfather also does not approve with "no speaking in tongues, no salvation" and I have also reported him the heresy of the "Prosperity Gospel". The Gospel of Christ must be held above all. Thank you for your patience and God bless you

[@maninthewilderness3208]

My time in the AofG (churches, SAGU, music ministry, pastoral ministry) was the most nightmarish experience in my life. Still in recovery from the hypocrisy of pastoral leadership, professors and people of grand delusions.

[@Lukeschamberger]

This was about two hours too short.

[@MarthePassoli]

Exactly 😂 We want a part 2!

[@ae_pd]

TMBH videos make my weekend 😀❤️🙏🏻

[@BedriddenFire]

It's really hard to read the comments here. As someone who grew up with a father who was a minister in AG, went to the day care, private schools, the summer camps, basically lived in various AG churches for the first 21 years of my life. So many youth group activities. My siblings attending North Central bible college. I know this is all a masterful performance. This video isn't genuine, it is terrifying. AG is really good at branding themselves. When your entire job is to recruit people for christ, you get REALLY GOOD a projecting an image people want to buy into, and then never going much deeper than that. I wish they actually did things from the heart. But most in the congregations don't look at how things are done, the council is not transparent, nor does anyone seem to realize/admit the impact it takes on families. We get distracted by videos like this. This is how they deflect attention. If you haven't spent enough time both inside and outside the church to really process the repetive rhetoric, you would not know other wise. It's deeply ironic, given how they push the idea that the secular world is of the devil ment to decieve us. It aids in us not trusting in anything that isn't from AG. That casual, fun, charisma is not from the joy of lord. He is in AG minister mode. They are caught of up in ideals and expansion. The positivity is a way to emotionally manipulate, keep up an appeal and interest, but also disaude critical thinking. Again. They are REALLY good at this.

[@DavidFohe]

This is a great interview. Thanks for making quality videos. Blessings

[@WhiteBraveheart1]

Beautiful expressions of Christianity -- from a Roman Catholic.

[@SemperVeritas.]

I grew up Pentecostal (AoG and CoG) and even though I’m catholic now I still love these groups for their passion and love for God, scripture, and people.

[@lisalmenard3828]

God bless you, James. Praise God. Yes, as long as we agree in the fundamentals of the faith/gospel, there is freedom of interpretation in the “secondary” (non-salvific) issues. We can appreciate each other as brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus our Lord and Savior, no matter what. 🙌

[@shadowlands8490]

Yes, if only the Catholic believers would rename themselves and separate from the Roman church. I believe The true Catholics have converted to Greek orthodoxy. If you could confirm this or not

[@shadowlands8490]

@@SemperVeritas. I agree, your path has diverges because of internal denomination corruption. Rather than foundational beliefs.

[@WhiteBraveheart1]

@@shadowlands8490 Which Orthodoxy? God Bless

[@AlexCFaulkner]

wow that was a fantastic episode Matt!

[@BibelFAQ]

Thanks a lot! very informative, great video as usual!

[@emmanuelst.arromand9508]

Awesome Video by Doug and I now AG better. Thank you!!!

[@chrisjames1672]

Great interview! I love your humble in your own ways and willing to learn n correct yourself as you go. That’s an honorable way to go. At the end of the day and better yet at the end of the road there’s only one Jesus and one way to the father. No reason for division in church because of theology. Jesus teaches love for each other not division. I’ve never spoke in tongues yet…. But I was healed of a neck/arm injury. I was always skeptical but it happened. The moment they prayed I felt a weird burning. I never said anything again I was skeptical days went by and my pain was gone and range of motion was fully returned…. I finally told what had happened. Guess what. Almost 2 years later I’m still healed !!! Praise be to God.

[@LifeOutward]

Doug Clay seems like a legit, wondering man. God bless him and his ministry.

[@alpalazzo1950]

Thanks for your honesty. It's fresh air.

[@amybee40]

@The Ten Minute Bible Hour Lest you think that none of your regular viewers are Pentecostal, here's one!

[@teresitadacpano4265]

Proud AG member here. We are not perfect but we always seek God's will and His righteousness. The BIBLE is our only spiritual guide and the total authority.