I grew up in the secular world.... i was dragged to bars by my dad, abused and lived around this whole world of abuse, drugs and alchohol. When i grew up i was left alone to survive with this weight of guilt, shame, addiction and fear. But when i walked into a oneness Apostolic/Pentecostal church (not UPCI, but shares most of the same values), i was introduced to true doctrine, Acts 2:38 isn't just writing but i experienced true infilling of the Holy Ghost. God has taught us to seperate ourselves from this untoward generation. While we live in this world, we don't act like them. Most of my life i grew up around filth, pornography, cursing, drunkenness and hatefulness. I desire to seperate myself from that and the Church has done that. Its not a cult, but a refuge... i am thankful for the Church that Jesus established and i am not ashamed to dress different, talk different and be different from the world. Just this weekend i went to a men's conference with the UPCI, the service was full of the Holy Ghost. I was abundantly blessed spiritually and just what i needed to experience revival. I will not trade that for where i came from. And my hope is that i help pull some folks from that terrible world before Jesus comes again.

@leavingtheupci239

4 жыл бұрын

will.i.is Thanks for stopping by. Question: If you died today, why should God let you in to His kingdom?

@dity.

4 жыл бұрын

Life After LEGALISM ultimately remission of sins, and being born again

@jaycristoff4601

4 жыл бұрын

Wrong answer Josh. There is NO reason you should be let in, outside of the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ.

@angelatrillo1596

4 жыл бұрын

Jay Cristoff grace and mercy is the cross.

@leavingtheupci239

4 жыл бұрын

@@jaycristoff4601 exactly. But for so long, we all thought is was the things WE did. No. No, it's not the things WE do, but the thing HE did and continues to do for us.

When I came back to God 4 years ago, after being away for over 20 years, I so wanted my church to not be a UPC church, because I didn't want to give up things like wearing pants. However, after trying out other churches first, I ended up staying with UPC because the presence of God just felt so much stronger for me. While the majority of people going do hold to the UPC standards, nobody ever made me feel judged or unholy for not doing that. God is most interested in our hearts, and He has been so patient with me and I have been slowly learning what the Bible says about things and trying to obey what God wants. The holiness standards are not something that is preached all the time, and actually it is more rare than people seem to think. They believe in letting God do the work. I get scared for people who turn away and bash UPC.

@leavingtheupci239

Жыл бұрын

Try not wearing a dress, and see if you’re used on the ‘holy platform’. Lol. That’ll tell you that it’s ‘taught’, even if it isn’t preached.

@KENBORDEN1

Жыл бұрын

No one wore pants in the Bible. Everyone wore robes. If it's wrong for a woman to wear pants, then it's just as wrong for a man to wear them. I do believe in being modest, though.

@rosalinehudson5226

Жыл бұрын

I am not saying it's right or wrong for women go wear pants, it's more about our hearts and modesty. We all have to work that out for ourselves. What I am saying is that it scares me to see anyone bashing another church or denomination. I don't feel like God would approve of that. God bless!

@downy1202

10 ай бұрын

@@rosalinehudson5226I believe God would himself flip tables in some of the churches today so being afraid of someone speaking against a church is foolish speak. God didn’t create the rule of just wearing a dress for women below the knees and whatever else nonsense believing a dress brings you closer to holiness. I’ve seen some of the most hypocritical, hateful, people in some churches including UPCI and PAW but they’re no different than people of other faiths. No attire or set or man made rules can make you more close to Christ. Stop putting Christ into a box of denominations. He’s so much bigger and what I hear so little of in these comments is the love of God.

@streettacokid8823

8 ай бұрын

I feel God's Sprit more (if that makes sense) in UPC Churches.

I wish i could comment but good luck on your journey. I love the way i live and the boundaries i agree with in the UpC… not everyone will stay. Can we as humans fail? Yes. You can live a holy life and still love everyone who believes different. I pray many blessings on you and your family. God bless you and keep you, may his grace shine upon you.

Let every man work out his own salvation ..in fear and trembling ..

@sandrahuffman9321

Жыл бұрын

Can’t agree with this

I am a part of a Pentecostal movement with no particular organizational affiliation, and I can honestly say my dress and holiness convictions have never hindered me from loving and caring deeply for people. I truly believe you do not have to be mean while upholding a holiness lifestyle.

@user-ws2be2xe8d

2 жыл бұрын

So true. I think that the whole dress/skirt thing does give many an air of 'superiority' and that can morph into pride and hatefulness. The test is how they treat you when you leave! lol

@OneGodApostolic210

Жыл бұрын

@@user-ws2be2xe8d In all churches you have your hypocrites, you can't blame God for what people do. The church is a hospital for sinners, some are saved, and some God is still working on. To me women with long hair and who wear dresses and skirts look beautiful.

@leavingtheupci239

Жыл бұрын

@@OneGodApostolic210 I’ve never blamed God for my choices. Teaching incorrect doctrine is a serious offense though. I now (5 years later after leaving) pity those who are sucked in to the “don’t study any doctrine but our” lie. 😞

@OneGodApostolic210

Жыл бұрын

@@leavingtheupci239 That is why reading and studying the Bible is so important, then nobody can fool you. I have read the Bible all the way through 4 times. I wasn't really talking with you about blaming God.

@leavingtheupci239

Жыл бұрын

@@OneGodApostolic210 congratulations on “reading the Bible through 4 times”… we always had so much pride about doing that. It was not studying though, and there were ALWAYS scriptures I’d come across that wouldn’t mesh with the doctrine, but cognitive dissonance would not allow me to study further when I truly should have. I knew studying further would take me away from the doctrine that I had been taught, but it’s was an important step when I wanted to get closer to Jesus and understand more about what he wants for my life.

You are very sincere in the way of expressing what you lived. May the Almighty bless you.

While I may not agree full heartedly with UPC, I find it amazing how many people both in UPC and in other Churches do not read their bibles. It is important for people to read the word personally. When you start reading the bible you see the truth.

@steveng8727

4 жыл бұрын

read the Mind of the Bible Believer by Edmund Cohen to help recover from bible indoctrination..

@terryhatcher7271

2 жыл бұрын

I believe people read their Bible. The problem is that they are looking at it through the lens of an interpretation instead of letting the scriptures speak for themselves.

@leonardoca6369

2 жыл бұрын

I will have to agree with you 100%!

@leonardoca6369

2 жыл бұрын

@@terryhatcher7271 amén yo that!

You navigated the fashion transition quite well, I must say! You are so pretty and those are great glasses 💁‍♀️

As an Apostolic Pentecostal (apart of the UPCI) it kills me to see the people who were hurt by people in the church or just felt like our standards were brought across to strongly and straight forward. I believe in the apostolic experience and that God’s convictions are personal. We’re not a “cult” and I truly believe that the promise in acts 2:38 is for all of those afar off, including us. As spoken in John 3, our doctrine is essential, “except a man be born again of the water and of the spirit, he CANNOT enter into the kingdom of God”. In the UPCI, our only purpose is to share that truth and show the love of God. I’m sorry so many of you were mistreated.

@leavingtheupci239

4 жыл бұрын

Steve N HD thanks for your comments. Were you aware that most mainstream Christianity believes the ‘water’ mentioned in your reference to, in fact, be the water of the mothers birth?

@onlyone3324

4 жыл бұрын

WE LEFT LEGALISM I was not aware of that because earlier in that chapter Nicodemus says “can a man enter back into his mother’s womb” so how can the mothers birth be the original birth and the new birth of water?????? Sister that doesn’t even make sense

@declaytor

4 жыл бұрын

@@leavingtheupci239 1 Peter 3:20-21 "...eight souls were saved by water [Noah and his family]...the like figure baptism does now also save us"

@elizabethamaya8713

4 жыл бұрын

eeunknown Elizabeth Esme - she is going to make history and she love and kindness

@joshogle8556

4 жыл бұрын

Life After LEGALISM They do make that assumption. But why would jesus say to a man that has already been birthed, is alive and is human that these things are part of his requirement to be saved. It seems very unlikely for jesus to mean that. If thats true i guess he was just making sure all the unborn knew they had to be born at some point in order to be saved and enter the kingdom of heaven. 🤷🏼‍♂️

Thank you for teaching us how to overcome the UPCI heartbreak. I believe your calling is to help others overcome this spiritual oppression.

It’s so much easier to tell people what we did rather than what we couldn’t do. We went to church, church functions, & hung out with church people. We were in the world but not of it. Thanks for putting yourself out there to tell our truth! When I left there was nothing. I felt so alone.

I don't know whose church you went to, but I hear about grace more than legalism in my UPC church. I am sorry you had a bad experience, but you cannot judge an organization off of one church. I pray God will continue to lead and guide you and that the things you did learn... like prayer, purity, hungering for God so much that you are willing to do anything He asks of you, and that sweet simplicity of waiting on God continue to be a part of your spiritual walk with God. May God bless you.

@IsabelleJ84

2 жыл бұрын

Exactly! I don’t understand the purpose of these types of videos it does discord period not just Upc but in the body of Christ. If you’re leaving the organization because you had a negative experience than just leave however this is not providing awareness. Secondly the negative experience of legalism is isolated in one church. I don’t agree with everything that the united Pentecostal church and I always found it odd how people were so dedicated to the organization and quite ignorant about the God they were claiming they served. People are lacking in the foundation which is the revelation of who Jesus Christ is. Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling we’re suppose to study to show ourselves approved unto God and not just take everything at face value. So I don’t think the organization is cult, but some isolated churches may behave as a cult.

@terryhatcher7271

2 жыл бұрын

It’s nice that you hear more about grace in your church but the UPC doctrine is legalistic. Your New Birth doctrine is legalistic to the core and renders salvation by grace through faith null and void. I’m Pentecostal but I don’t believe that if someone doesn’t speak in tongues that they are not saved. That is a teaching in UPC and it’s a damnable heresy.

@Xaforn

2 жыл бұрын

For many people it’s not just one church but repeatedly encountering this doctrine at many churches. The UPC doctrine is very legalistic, and if you study and research you will see the flaws. Deconstruction of how you were taught is a tough road, many will abandon it and go right back to how they were raised out of overwhelming emotions, fear etc; it’s quite similar to leaving an abusive relationship, especially since religious abuse is a foreign concept to many.

@junkmail7780

2 жыл бұрын

Your church was one of a few that taught grace in the UPCI Apostolic organization then. The entire doctrine and tradition are work based and fear mongering. God said my burden is easy but UPCI/Apostolic makes living for their "God" a heavy burden for no other reason but control and money.

Excellent, I can sense the freedom in your spirit. The truth will set you free and Jesus is the Truth.

@leavingtheupci239

5 жыл бұрын

John 1:12 Thank you for your encouragement! (...and John 1:12 Yes!💕)

Replying to Dallas's comment, I didn't go and find another church I just ran as fast as I could and tried to just get on with a life outside of any church.What I realized much later is you can't run from gods love for you.Now I'm searching and am starting to find my way it's an everyday on going process for me. This forum is good for me connecting with you out there who ever you guys are. I no longer feel lonely.

@leavingtheupci239

5 жыл бұрын

Tom H Thanks for sharing this. Yes, We’d love to connect and you are absolutely NOT alone. We have folks contacting us daily in all stages of ‘leaving’... you have hundreds if not thousands that are like minded. God loves you and so do we!!

@camillegrazier7188

Жыл бұрын

Yep, when you’re “in it”, you don’t see how judge mental you are and how critical you are of others that aren’t like you

This is a great video! Thanks for sharing ♥️

@leavingtheupci239

5 жыл бұрын

SimplySheila E Thanks so much! We pray or videos help and bless!!

Hello my name Mike my dad was a minister within the UPCI well they were beginning to say things to my mom about her hair that it was short, they did not understand she was very sick when she was a lil girl they kept saying things to my dad

Hi I was in an upci church I so agree with u I was raised Pentecostal holiness trinity be for that . There were things I felt like I was controlled what to do and what not to do . You have to see God for yourself not what the pastor or people say . I was like u. I was so open minded to find out what ever faith and you believe in your heart God is still there . I realized I was losing my family that did not go to church . My parents fought me going to an upci church cause of the belief . Also when I left the Upci I felt a load lift off me . I still love the Lord but people saw a difference in my life . I felt I was in bondage . I still believe in the one God . I was Frowned on after I left . But I loved people for who they were and not what they wore . U can look the part but not have the spirit of God in you. I found out God has a plan in our life if you believe . It’s not all in the dress code that a lot of people say . God delivers you sin. What ever faith you are in . I didnt really like a man that tells me what I can and can’t not do. I’m glad you still have the faith of God And the spirit is still in you . May God bless you and your family. I also have friends that has left the faith of that church . Lol just a note you have to face God on your own and not what man say . Lol Everyone that looks the part some of them there heart my not be right to lol what a great testimony you have giving . May God bless you and your family. Thank you so much for your words . It has blessed me

@debbiegallimore3285

Жыл бұрын

I'm so thankful for your testimony. All this time I felt I was the only one that had experienced the sad things we've gone through. I was literally abused by them. I'm so thankful to be free.

That's so funny, the first time I started wearing pants again was to take out the trash too!

the standards never bothered me (as a man) but the faith in the standards was very troubling. Years of studying the Bible finally created the restlessness required to leave. Lost a lot of friends kept my true ones. Nothing is as peaceful as following God through His Word. God bless you guys.

For me it’s always been about the search for truth, which really is to know Jesus on a deeper and deeper level. That search led me to UPCI for 20 years, then the HG ghost asked, you want to go deeper? Which led me back out. I think the UPCI serves a useful purpose. For me it was structure, and grounding in the word, but the time came when it was time to take the training wheels off, and take the scaffolding down. I’ve found there’s just no perfect church organization, but then that’s the point isn’t it? The “Church” is not manmade with their little boxes.The Church is the bride, consisting of individuals who are not willing to let anything hinder continually knowing Jesus on a deeper and deeper level. For some, they are not willing to go deeper beyond the perimeter of their manmade box. Leaving the UPCI so reminds me of what it would have been like in Paul’s day to leave the religion of the Pharisees to follow Jesus. Until Jesus came, it seemed to be the best thing going, until deeper revelation came along. But up to that point it served a useful purpose. Again, no church organization is perfect. The UPCI has its good points, some of which I miss, the legalism I do not miss. Just know, if God is calling you to leave the UPCI you will have to put your big boy pants on, and learn to walk with God on your own two feet. Something that requires real spiritual and emotional maturity, which if you’re not ready for, could make you vulnerable to being gobbled up by the world. However, if you are ready for, can get the stumbling blocks out of the way so you can more effectively go impact the world for Jesus through loving people where they are at, out in the byways. Maybe it’s just me, but I just saw the UPCI as military boot camp to prepare me to now go out there. It’s hard to be effective when you are a visual spectacle and so concerned with outward appearances. Also know, that it will cost you to go, but isn’t that just like the Lord? There is always a cost to go deeper, to become more anointed. The shunning that goes on when God calls you to move on is so discrediting to all the good things that I experienced in the UPC. It’s just so wrong and hurtful. Another thing you may have to deal with is a Pastor who has legitimate spiritual authority unknowingly curse you when you leave saying things like you’ll never get on when you leave here, your family will be destroyed. Curses are a very real thing, so be prepared to get yourself out from under that. BTW, manipulation, and using fear to control, and cursing are all witchcraft. Just saying. A very helpful video on dealing with curses if your Pastor cursed you is “Passing from cursing to blessing” by Derek Prince. Anyhow, excellent testimony. I can so relate, been through all the same things since leaving 6 years ago, and experienced and observed many of the same problematic things while attending the UPC. The last straw for me was when somebody in leadership told my 14 year old daughter that God couldn’t use her because she wore leggings under her skirt while playing outside at home in the cold. At some point a father has to protect his children from such an uncaring legalistic attack from the enemy.

@leavingtheupci239

5 жыл бұрын

John Heueisen WOW! So well put and thank you for sharing your journey and thoughts. We liked the way you explained things, and agree on many of the same things!! -Lori

@Djneyon79

4 жыл бұрын

John Heueisen yup I agree me to. Deeper will require you to leave. And others are scared.

@marynotmartha3139

4 жыл бұрын

Thank u for your testimony.

@marynotmartha3139

4 жыл бұрын

@@Djneyon79 please explain why u think that i am very interested

@1Sackettgirl

5 ай бұрын

Holiness standards and legalism issues are the stink from the pile of doodoo that that is their core demonic doctrine. Why complain about the smell and never talk abt whats causing it? I am a Oneness escapee and this is the reason I left, I care about the truth. There are Egyptian snakes and then there is Moses’s snake: Letter in anyone involved with Oneness teaching: This issue is vital because one group is antichrist according to the Apostle John in 1John 4:1-6, and one group is the real deal generally speaking: Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. Also, VERY IMPORTANT, please note the words: “Jesus Christ is come IN the flesh” in this passage. Here is what John meant by that:And the Word was MADE flesh and dwelt among us…John1:14 1John 4:1-6 IS NOT saying that God merely ENDWELT flesh here, as oneness ppl teach. Or he would be contradicting what he said in John 1:14. This the BIG issue. There are Egyptian magician snakes, and there’s Moses’s snake, which one is the snake made from truth? John in these 2 places gave us the ONE test needed to find out whether all these calling themselves “Christ” aka “Christians” really are Christians or not. First: it must be established that the Son is more than a “nature” , “bodysuit”, or “humanity”. Oneness will say that Christ’s 2 natures were mutually exclusive, and each consiously self aware. But a “nature” is not self aware. Not only this, but this so-called “human nature” of Christ(the Son) claimed the Father had His “own self” that the Son did not have! So, what Oneness ppl are calling a “nature” the Scripture calls a “self”. A “self” is a person…bingo. A ”person" does not have to have a body to be a "person". A person is a being/spirit that is self aware. Now check this out(look for the word "self"): Father: And now, O Father, glorify thou me with >thine own self Son: I can of >mine own self So also Christ glorified not >himself Spirit: Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of >himself

God bless... It's definitely not an easy out by any means for sure. Congratulations amen. James & Rescue Kitties

I’ve been in 2 upc churches and whether they meant it or not they made feel like I wouldn’t good enough I’m currently in a apostolic church and absolutely love it they let God do the changing

My mom has already left the church.But for me on the other hand im scared to leave especially cause I know how the youth group and some of the other people are.How do I leave without feeling like im doing something bad and without wondering what the youth are going to do....besides talk?

@leavingtheupci239

4 жыл бұрын

Cheyanne Louise I’d just start by biblically searching why they believe and teach what is taught. If you’re propagating that doctrine just by your look, do you think that is what God wants for you? Are you more concerned what God thinks of you? A few questions to ask yourself. We wish you the best!!

@cheyannelouise8658

4 жыл бұрын

@@leavingtheupci239 thanks!!

They often say speaking in tongues is "just like the day of Pentecost." It is not. On the day of Pentecost people spoke languages fluently of their times, WITHOUT PRIOR KNOWLEDGE of the language. That is a miracle. What is done now, is not miraculous, and often self-operated. They say "speaking in tongues" is a sign the Holy Spirit is in control of your tongue. No, again, the tongue is controlled by the spirit when it has no need to tale bear, speak hateful things, and be harsh and sarcastic. A spirit controlled tongue edifies, and is encouraging.

@leavingtheupci239

Жыл бұрын

Stellar comment!!!

I've been that delima there before but now I am free...free indeed...God's grace sets me free 😇 and now I am truly loving the ministry of Christ...to love people and to bring them more closer to Him...those who are hurting, needy, unwanted, broken and more...i found my sole purpose why He saved me, my purpose is not to please those critical people in the organization but to please my Holy God and Savior Jesus Christ...I thank Him for calling me out of darkness on that prison cell of do's and do not as org ordered me to obey...Glory to God for this...His Word is only the truth not the upc...

@leavingtheupci239

4 жыл бұрын

MaryLuz Fernandez beautiful testimony of God’s faithful love!!💕

I am going through this right now. My son and I have been told we are going to hell. How can I get in touch with you? I need someone to talk to.

@leavingtheupci239

4 жыл бұрын

any time... message me!!

My dad was a UPCI pastor in Michigan for over 30 years. He built our church and I grew up in it from a baby and even now I still attend my dad's church but we have pulled out of the UPCI and now are independent. We belong to no organization because we don't agree with the standards and legalistic things. But even today, the pastor at our church still doesn't teach about grace very often or very deeply. And it's sad to say I didn't even know what grace meant or what it was until I was in my late 30s and I studied it for myself. I went to all the UPCI youth functions and youth rallies and camp at Marshall campgrounds in Michigan . I thought Grace meant graceful like a ballerina and to be lady like and peaceful. That's what I thought it meant. I didn't know what the grace of God was. My mom didn't even know what it meant or the depth of it until I taught her. I've had multiple pastors tell me they don't teach about grace because some people will think it's a license to sin. That to me is a sin itself because that is the part of the gospel. That is something everybody needs to know. The apostles didn't hold back teaching about grace and fear that people might sin. They still taught about it. There's so much I can say about this and the other topics. But I'm glad to see videos like this one. Thank you

@leavingtheupci239

Жыл бұрын

I can count on one hand the times I heard Grace preached on in over 25 years. My new husband had to teach me what it was.

Thank you for your message. I left in 1996...there wasn't you tube at that time. My breaking point was when my pastor called my son ugly behind the pulpit and the church laughed. I would also like to add i was a church hopper bc I was seeking for the word of God and looking for fruit .....I never found it in the upc or upci. Thank you for stepping out and helping us know we are not alone.

@agraplava1678

3 жыл бұрын

I’m so sorry you went through that. Glad you got out!

I left or was extracted by God 30+ years ago with the same prayer for all of God.... I learned many valuable truths while affiliated with this group, HOWEVER as soon as I left, God Supernaturally Placed me in formal ministry and I have never looked back or regretted this exodus. I was blessed with a wonderful true man of God for a pastor and loved him dearly, again, but as I followed God in a relocation (with pastors blessing) God unfolded so many nothing short of The Hand of God changes in my life, they just simply could NOT be denied. Love these ppl still, but I am following Gods path for me!

You look so much more Fabulous now than the picture of you before! Freedom!!!!

Love you Lori! You have helped me so much. I always appreciate your experience stories. I wish I was as good with words.

@leavingtheupci239

5 жыл бұрын

Catlady oh goodness!! Being good with words is something I’ve never really seen myself as!! Lol! I’m so glad I have helped though, God knows that’s all I want!!!

Thank you for sharing this... I understand your language... the catch phrases... omg it’s just insane what we’ve been able to free ourselves from!

I think it's interesting to listen to all those who are leaving UPCI refer to it as an organization instead of a denomination. If you look at the structure of how they operate, with a central headquarters and a network of authority in each state...it looks very much like a denomination. They have a detailed constitution that spells out the conditions for every facet of church life.

Thank you for your testimony. I find it interesting that you prayed the exact prayer that I did when God lead me out of the UPCI. I have felt that I need to give my testimony, but want to deliver it in a way as to not bash anyone. I was actually working on it when I found this video. I was 3 generation UPCI (how very boastful to say, isn’t it?) so it’s deep rooted in my family. I’m hoping to get the video up in the next week or two. I’m going to go through your videos. You’ve got a new subscriber!

@leavingtheupci239

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for stopping by. Yes, that prayer... it'll take you outta your 'generational comfort zone'...lol

@yeshuamaranatha1492

7 ай бұрын

How do I watch your video

Where did you study this stuff? I recently left UPC and would love to look into that more

@leavingtheupci239

Жыл бұрын

Just bible, friend.

@joshcarlton9552

Жыл бұрын

It's amazing whenever you study what's actually being said and you look into the original translations of things what it actually means

@haroldbeauchamp3770

Жыл бұрын

As a former UPCI member, I left over misappropriation of tithe money. Poor congregation funding the pastor and wife extravagant lifestyle. I left and immediately studied the UPCI from the beginning. Most UPCI consider Azusa street the founding of the modern UPCI. Upon deep study I learned that Parham and Seymour were adulterers. Parham was a child rapist who admitted his crime in Texas. Stated that he raped little boys “in his sleep.” It was after this revelation that I knew the whole UPCI was founded upon sin and abuse. My journey for researching the UPCI was after this event.

Pew Baby here. I left legalism UPC. I'm much happier. But even though I left, I consciously do not participate in secular things because I did backslide. I do not go to UPC but I know the difference since I was in both worlds. His grace is amazing.

I am Apostolic but came out of the Grace only non denominational church that waters down the Gospel. Before coming to an Apostolic I had those you don't have to go to church to be saved mentalities, etc. Nothing showed that I was a believer to the lost except the joy I had and that I often read my Bible in Public to open doors in Highschool. God brought me to a Apostolic church. Eventually I made it to a UPCI. I agree the standards hold us back but as someone that grew up in the complacency of the traditional church, I see the power in the standards that set us apart. The don't stop me from the love. I am rembracig the dress because even the denominal churches used to have standards and we are just a stiff necked people. I will never totally agree with UPCI on all points but we are a church standing on scripture while many affirm sin in their church, not repentance from them. That is sad. I am not saying you have gone this far but it is a thought. Maybe your leaders thought them as obligations of sanctification and not simply a different way to carry yourself as one that is set apart.

God sees us he knows ourselves and are hurts don't nobody sees em he cares in the last days you must pray a lot harder than a lot more we're all in struggle together trust God believe him he will help you through this listen to that song sometimes it takes a mountain

Wow I went through the same especially about the part with not truly knowing Gods grace yet

I havd been in a predicament for awhile because i know the voice of God . I know he told me to go to Ncac which is the church i attend . I was helping Assist a Pastor in a home missions church when we both felt the pull from the spirit for me to complete a work under Pastor Anthony Moss of North Charleston Apostolic Church . A disclaimer is this , Anthony Moss is a fantastic Pastor and his elders are amazing ministers full of love , kindness and power of the Holy Ghost but there is an issue i have , a serious one too . Everyone from age 18 to 40 except a very small few have Strategically isolated me and Refuse even to speak to me.... They don't include me or my fiance in any of the conversations and we will jump in at times , be friendly and Witty even to no avail .... I have met an absolute wall Fellowshiping these people and unfortunately it is probably all because years and years ago when i was younger we had issues and i have never been forgiven nor has anyone evaluated me in the present....its as if present Me is irrelevant...they look back to 7 years ago when there was tensions....and no attempt to reconcile has been met with anything but cold indifference ....I know my future children will suffer around the stuck up families of my generation and i see the writing on the wall regardless of how Amazing the Pastor is....all of my Generation there is like a pharisee pack to me .....anyways sorry for the long winded comment but i desperately felt the need to Talk to someone .

@leavingtheupci239

4 жыл бұрын

Gibbs Goals ... sounds like a tough problem to endure their self-righteousness. I personally wouldn’t stand for it, and I have boundaries and things I no longer allow around me, and self-righteous folks are a big one!! Jesus called folks like that a ‘brood of vipers’... you’ve got to do what’s best for you and your family, imo. Thank you for sharing this, and I’m really sorry.

Go girl!!!

I have found that the " legalism" attributed to the pentecostal churches uninformed people equate with a " cult". The holiness of the pentecostal churches especially the apostolic pentecostal churches have become much less extreme as it was in times past. We can all agree that that the scriptures do teach that we as Christians are to put limitations on our dress and appearance than is acceptable in the world. I would encourage those who would want to see if the holiness standards are as strict as we hear in videos to check a pentecostal church for themselves keeping in mind that the severity of those restrictions are different from one pentecostal church to another. Having recieved the Holy Spirit in an apostolic pentecostal church in ' 78 I have extensively studied the scriptures and found that neither catholic or protestant churches teach the correct way to be saved. That of the over the one billion professing christians in the world only a little over one hundred million are pentecostal. Jesus said that, "Narrow is the way and few there be that find it" ( Matt.7:14). One has to be looking for " The way" in the first place in order to find in. Most have not, which the majority would classify the ones that have, the pentecostals, as a cult.

Sorry for mistypes , I'm just hurt and in my feelings as i write .

What shocks me about the UPC church in the UK is that pay more attention to what Peter says in Acts 2 than what Jesus says right through out the four gospels and into the first chapter of Acts. I agree with you about the cliques and the favouritism shown from the leaders to certain members. If one is not part of these groups and suffering spiritual, physical or mental pain, the leaders do not care. Even if it is made known to them that the pain has been caused by them. I believe that Jesus lead me to site to reassure me that I am not alone in the un-Christ-like treatment from the UPC. May Jesus continue to use you to open the eyes of the hurting.

@michellee2990

3 жыл бұрын

I understand completely where you're coming from and have noticed the same thing . It's one of the reasons why I left my own church in late February of this year .

@OneGodApostolic210

2 жыл бұрын

go to your local library and you will find the early church did indeed baptize in Jesus name and the Catholic church changed it, look it up for yourself.

@ServingMyJesus

2 жыл бұрын

@@OneGodApostolic210 The Catholic Church also instituted Sunday as the Sabbath. Jesus NEVER gave permission to change the Sabbath from the seventh day to the first day. However, the majority of congregations still consider Sunday to be more holy than Saturday.So, is Peter more important than Jesus?

@leavingtheupci239

2 жыл бұрын

@@ServingMyJesus if you’re fully persuaded regarding the day of rest, then you do you!

@ServingMyJesus

Жыл бұрын

@Armor of God It is important what Jesus says because Jesus is Yahweh in the flesh 1 Timothy 3:16 and John 1:1-4. Jesus is the Creator. His followers were/are noted by his Greek title 'Christ/ Christ's men/ Christians' Therefore ''God's Words'' are Jesus' words. Therefore, Jesus words are very important.

I want to thank you for your testimony I've only been to the pentecostal church for 5 months and the Holy spirit has told me to leave many times, but i didn't see what was wrong, but I began to see the legalism, and the works.. I suddenly became unhappy with all the rules, and felt I was sinning if I did not obey, also I studied more on tongues, and began to feel that many scriptures have been misinterpreted or twisted out of context....also I began to notice Jesus rebuked the Pharisees often, and I felt pentecostals are nearly similar to pharisees.... I feel many are decieved

@leavingtheupci239

5 жыл бұрын

Stashia, thank you so much for your thoughtful comments! I’m so glad your time was short in the organization and you were sensitive to God taking you to a healthier place! I think, too, that social media and being able to study things easier online will make it more enlightening for many!

@stashia3647

5 жыл бұрын

@janette joy Wow... I also notice the whole pentecostal look of women intimidates people... and doesn't really bring people to Jesus

@barbaramartin5495

4 жыл бұрын

😖😖😖😖😖😖😖😖😖😖😖😖😖😖😖😧😧😨 There is absolutely no point in airing your dirty laundry. So you left the UPC I, so who cares? I think it's terrible speaking against any church. If you have nothing good to say then keep your mouth shut nobody wants to see your dirty laundry.

@mrs.elentz2336

4 жыл бұрын

@@barbaramartin5495 that line of thinking is so dangerous... so kids who are molested by priests or pastors should keep their mouths shut for the greater good of God?? Come on. And this is coming from someone who stands with the Apostolic Pentecostal Church and was baptized in Jesus' name, baptism of the holy ghost and made choices on my own to dress modestly, remove makeup, etc.

@barbaramartin5495

4 жыл бұрын

@@mrs.elentz2336 I said speaking against churches is wrong. Of course we have to speak against pedophiles. And other predators. That goes without saying.

I agree with a lot of what you say about the false teaching in the UPCI: I have had some experience myself but the word of God in me and the Holy Spirit kept me out of the nonsense. The dress code is a hinderance in the UPCI, but I have noticed when people come out of the UPCI they sometimes come into other things they call freedom that can be bondage on the other side of the road in a new ditch. God’s word and living the love walk that comes from God is a great place to thrive in our understanding of Him. Your point about an organization keeping the spotlight on their uniqueness and not the Grace and Power of God is point on. But I would remind people that “holiness” was not created by any of these organizations, it is Jesus who presented to us His holiness. But for us to think we can be holy by our clothing or hair is flesh at best. I would encourage that Jesus did say to be “modest” in our dress and other things as well. Sounds like you are on the right track but the flesh is still deceptive in or out of the UPCI. Please do not allow the manmade doctrine you were deceived by push you to far the other direction. God’s grace is the power not to sin, not the freedom to sin. But sin is described by God’s word not manmade doctrines. God has called us to holiness obviously in the word of God. But holiness is our separating ourselves unto Him, Jesus. And obviously out of that relationship we will separate ourselves from certain things of this world. And the scripture does have a lot to to say about the spirit of this world. Yet our focus has to be on Jesus and His love in us and through us. Sin is deceiving but having a sin consciousness is not the will or purpose of God, unless our own hearts (born-again) condemn us. Nothing wrong on preaching about sin but it is Jesus who sets us free and keeps us free, people need to here about Jesus not an organization’s uniqueness that brings attention to themselves. I personally know some of the best people I care about who really love Jesus that are caught up in the soul binding nonsense of the UPCI, and to be fair all denominations or groups of people have some manmade nonsense. Yet when you call Jesus the Father or that you have to speak in Tongues to be saved, or baptized in water, obviously other manmade things will follow. It takes time to unlearn and time to sort out what is next, but Jesus and His word has that power. One last thing I have learned is the scripture in Hebrews that tells us God’s word is “able” and full of power to separate our soul from our spirit. Many people are not taught that we are “spirit” beings that have a soul, and live in a body. It is our “spirit being” that is born-again and made ALL NEW! Our soul in this setting is our mind, emotions, and will. Our soul nor our body were made ALL new, so we must renew our minds with God’s word and crucify our flesh daily as Paul did. But in all this we can have joy and peace from God and the liberty that His Spirit brings us. This is why Christians are told in James that the engrafted word of God will save the soul. In this context it is telling us to renew our minds with God’s word so we think like Jesus thinks, the “mind of Christ”. The Christians James was talking to were born-again and filled with the Holy Spirit, but like us needed to renew their mind in God’s word. In hopes this might touch many of those like yourself, but are still in the UPC or UPCI who may disagree with you because they feel safer in their dress code. Our soul and our spirits are so closely intertwined that we can be taught things for so long or come out of a dramatic experience and then help by loving Christian’s who believe these false teachings, that we confuse what we feel down deep in our soul as our true hearts, where God lives in us. The soul, in this sense, has to be separated from the spirit according to Hebrews so that we can know the perfect will of God. We will never be perfect ourselves in ourselves, but we can deceive our own-selves by feeling something down deep in our soul that is not coming from the Holy Spirit. We walk successfully for God by faith not our feelings. Our feelings must be in subjection to our Lord who gives us the ability to feel. God’s grace is sufficient for us and it is so unsearchable but it is not unattainable, Jesus came FULL of grace and truth! John 1:14. Be encouraged as God leads you.

I just ran across your video. I want to preface what I say with love. Not all UPC churches are like the one you describe. I am truly sorry you experienced the things you did in a church. Churches are made of people and none are perfect. Having said all that, I want to say that to do things because we are told to is not the way to go. We are truly to follow God. In almost 60 years of doing that, I am not in any way held back or kept from anything. That is not what it is about. A person must have their own convictions, no matter what church they go to. We went to many churches over the years and we always followed our own convictions. If we had tried to go by what someone told us to do or not to do, it would have been very difficult and confusing as churches are different. We are not a cult. Your church may have been, I have no way of knowing. But, the organization (again imperfect as it is run by imperfect humans) is not a cult. I do hope you are happy where you are, and that you are continuing to follow Christ. It doesn't matter what organization or denomination or anything else that you are involved with. I am sure there will be people from all these denominations in Heaven. We shall see when we get there. It sounds as though you were not in a good place and you have made it better for you and your family. I pray you will continue on and be found worthy on that day when we meet Jesus. :)

I truly appreciate your take on things and can see past upci in your look. Is that weird to say? Like I can see it? Idk. But I left mid last year.

@leavingtheupci239

2 жыл бұрын

I hope you’re doing well now!!

best "why i left the pentecostal church" video. you spoke from your heart and you spoke a lot of raw truth. so glad you're living your life authentically and loving people without the agenda of "saving a soul". i'm doing some research to make my own "why i left" video because i've been hearing some of my favorite people from my old church struggling with the dogma that is imposed on everyone. i hope to be as genuine as you in mine. :)

There is always more with our heavenly FATHER !!🙏🙏🙏🙏☝☝☝☝☝

I was a member of the UPC for 36 years until August of 2017, I stopped going to church and asked myself “why?” and I came to the conclusion that I didn’t agree with members working for their salvation and working so hard in the church. I had an actual “grace awakening” and something miraculous happened to me! I don’t think I was saved until that point!

@leavingtheupci239

5 жыл бұрын

Ione Ackerman I so understand when you say “I don’t think I was saved until that point”.... I am saying that, now, too! He is so good!!

@dwightsbeats4274

4 жыл бұрын

I've recently come to this as well... Especially the whole working so hard at the church that nothing else in life matters. Being seen as foolish or "backsliding" for trying to finish a degree, because it meant less time at the physical church building.

@rickgarcia4487

4 жыл бұрын

Nobody works for their salvation. Except ourselves we have to keep our selfs pure in the eyes of God! UPCI. Is an awesome church were they don't sugarcoat nothing. They preach like it is. And that's what we need in these lasts hours...

@isaiah2810

4 жыл бұрын

Rick Garcia Nah they don’t sugar coat it they just put yeast in it. 😏

@terryhatcher7271

2 жыл бұрын

So awesome!!! I’m so glad to see people coming out from under this teaching.

the issue i have is the way of salvation. They love to preach acts 2:38 but there are many verses that talk about being saved by grace and mercy of Jesus. If I don't get baptized in Jesus name, speak in tongues I won't be saved. Speaking in tongues isn't a gift that everyone will get I just don't think Jesus wanted it to be this complicated. Just my opinion though.

@leavingtheupci239

Жыл бұрын

Exactly.

Lot of people think if you leave the church your leaving God too. You can have s relationship with God outside the church. Duh! Church is just a place to meet up with other like minded christians to encourage and pray for one another, hear preaching and singing. Its not a requirement or command to go to church. Look at elderly christians who can’t go to church.

@user-ws2be2xe8d

2 жыл бұрын

Exactly!!!!

What is the facebook group called girl. I would love to join it and have the support. :)

@leavingtheupci239

5 жыл бұрын

Kat, email me at WeLeftLegalism@gmail.com. 😊

My questions is, do you still believe in Baptism in Jesus name? And being filled with the Holy Ghost for salvation?

@leavingtheupci239

Жыл бұрын

Hi Alice, thank you for the question. I believe that being baptized into the understanding that Jesus is the messiah, is biblical. At its core, I used to believe what the words were spoken out of a man’s mouth when you’re laying in the water were important. I just don’t believe that anymore. We receive the spirit when we are saved. If you’re asking, if I think that you have to talk in tongues to be saved, absolutely not. the bigger picture for me, though, however, is the treatment of those around me, the feeding of the sick, the kindness to the marginalized, things like that. Jesus said if you’ve done it, and to the least of these, you’ve done it and to me.

I'm so glad I accidentally saw your video. I was taught all those things from a child I'm 66 now and I don't have a church because I don't fit in now because my eyes were opened to all the rules and regulations. I pray everyday for God to send the right people in my life to open doors that I can truly love with the true love of Christ. I have so much love to give to others that I never had . Please help me pray also. Than you for your testimony. An Apostolic Pastor refused to let me come to hus church he said I couldn't come to his church abd be saved. Another Pastor said that depression was because I was of the devil and antidepressants are demonic. I almost committed suicide now I sit here watch a Preaxher online that I love no churches around me like it. They're Pentecostal but they don't tellbyou that you cant wear majeup jewelry etc but they hace si much love for each other I feel theur love abd compassion. I was beaten for not believing the Apostolic rules so forgive me if anyone reads this and feels like I'm wrong I've never felt more right now. Thank God for a true relationship with him now.

I completely understand where you are coming from. I grew up in a modern Black Pentecostal church where we may wear makeup, jewelry, pants etc. However, I recently moved to a new city that is under the UPCI organization and WOW it has been an eye opener for me. Right down to the point where you have to ask permission from the pastor to court one another. I have been contemplating leaving this church because of the strict rules and the people who judge. I love being Pentecostal, but not with UPCI. Thanks for your video, it gave me affirmation!

@leavingtheupci239

5 жыл бұрын

Jocelyn Ellis Ellis My pleasure! Yes, the ‘men of God’ have gotten pretty high and mighty.... far from the ‘servants’ that God desires us to be for each other.

Whats the name of the “i left upci” fb group

@leavingtheupci239

2 жыл бұрын

I left the ‘secret’ group, as it was a lot of negativity (understandably). But there is a Group that’s another one facebook.com/groups/813830865371192/?ref=share

The best decision I ever made was when I paid a girl to take me to the apostolic campgrounds I received the HOLYGHOST on a night I was suicidal in 2011 an experience I cannot explain away! 🎉 and I never dealt with suicide again I was baptized in his name and never left my children have been raised this way and over 12 years they have seen God heal me of cancer twice! And much more Thankyou for your video and bravery Maybthe Lord bless you all in Jesus Name ❤❤

I agree 100%. I'm a former member also

Thanks...my wife was upc..she struggles to this day...behind just what ur saying..I wasn't raised up a believer..God touched me while I was in prison this last time..and like you said..I discovered this true Jesus without all the mess this world places in it..but my wife like you said has all this legelism in her head..pray for her sister.her name is Judy

@leavingtheupci239

4 жыл бұрын

Richard Cales thanks for commenting... sounds like you truly love her. If she’s on Facebook, I’d love to connect!

@richardcales6388

4 жыл бұрын

@@leavingtheupci239 I do...and she is..her name Judy Cales..she is on messenger.Thank you so much

Liberating!❤

Elvis loved the UPC church, especially Pastor Rex Dison's where he requested Pastor Rex to baptize him specifically In Jesus' name - and no other..He may not have been perfect, but he got tbat one right.

Maybe I misunderstood but where in acts are people baptised in titles?

@leavingtheupci239

Жыл бұрын

They weren't. They were baptized into the belief that Jesus is the promised Messiah. Where does it say that what a failed human says over you while you're in the water matters??

@Tyfron

Жыл бұрын

​@@leavingtheupci239 Thanks for not clarifying and being self defensive? Idk why you would ask me "Where does it say that what a failed human says over you while you're in the water matters??" when I just asked you where in acts people are baptised in titles. In your video you said you read acts without a slant and tried to find everytime people were baptised in titles and then rebaptised in Jesus name. I'm trying to understand what you mean, because nowhere is anyone baptised in titles in Acts let alone baptised in titles then rebaptised in Jesus name. Finally, the UPCI does not teach a slant that people got baptised in titles then rebaptised in Jesus name. The slant I would expect an EX-UPCI here to say about the UPCI is that they say everyone is baptised in the name of Jesus Christ(which they are, UPCI or no UPCI. This is why I was asking you what you meant and said "Maybe I misunderstood" but you're clearly self defensive and are incapable of answering a question. Irregardless of the faults of the UPCI, perhaps you shouldn't set yourself to help others leave the UPCI or avoid it when you can't answer a humble question where someone is openly trying to understand you without attacking them? Thanks.

Same experience, Yahusha kept pulling on our hearts & showing us HIMSELF all throughout scripture. HE taught us through study what grace really was. Grace empowers us to keep HIS word and HIS Spirit leads and guides us INTO ALL TRUTH. Receiving HIS Spirit is not the end all and now you are good to go , but rather it is the beginning so as to lead you back to HIS WORD and a relationship with HIM. The hair scripture cannot mean what they teach because Paul would not add to YAHs word. Scripture tells us that if a man or a woman take a Nazarene vow let their hair grow and after the vow is complete let her or him cut their hair. So right there we see that the interpretation of Pauls letter sent back to the church is wrongly interpreted in regard to hair because it would make the Nazarene vow null and void. Yahusha told the Pharisees that you make MY Commandments of non affect because of your traditions. We will not be judged in the end according to the doctrines of men but we will be judge according to HIS word. YAHs standards are higher and they are not about the outward appearance when you are walking in HIS Spirit. HIS Kingdom is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost. HIS Standard is HIS word , not mans word and HIS ways are higher than our ways. I also am learning just to walk in HIS Spirit & to always study to show myself approved unto HIM alone. All our kids are Ministers in the UPCI and so I constantly worry about what they think of me, but I take heart in knowing that Yahusha did not come to bring peace but a sword. HIS word is a sword and it will always always cut away anything that is not of HIM. In the end we will not be judged by mens words but by HIS word alone. HIS word shows us HIS character and HIS Spirit leads and guides us back into HIS word so we can learn HIS ways. The biggest advice I can give people coming out of RELIGION is to not allow a root of bitterness to grow and to just bask in HIS word. Study Pauls letters written back to the churches knowing that he would never ad to or take away from the scriptures he knew very well being a Rabbi. If he knew what men have done to other men using his letters written back to the churches , he would roll over in his grave. Start reading the only scriptures Paul and the believers in Yahusha had and use them to interpret what Paul wrote back to the churches.

Honour God with our body because we are the temple of God. These are not rules. If it is the Word of God, so be it. If Jesus is our Lord, then we are saying. Lord rule over me.

Just love God and love people let God change people. People will want to change when they know him and trust him. A personal relationship with God is all I need don't put anything else above God cause God will stop that quick. Amen. Being myself is great when God calls me to what he wants me to be no organization is required for knowing and loving God.

Amen sister, God will draw the elect out of this cult. That is simply what it is, a cult. Have seen this first hand too. Pray for these people in the charismatic movement, there lost.

I'll never forget the day when I read this prayer in Acts 4 and a light went on: Nobody in the Oneness Apostolic movement would pray this same prayer in private, or in public at church, at a pulpit. To do so would be to admit that the Son is separate from the Father. It was as if I had been hit with something. I was born and raised in it. Acts 4:27,30 NKJV 27 "For truly against Your holy Servant Jesus, whom You anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Israel, were gathered together [30] by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus."

If people want to leave the UPCI organization because they are not following and obeying God's word is one thing but if people want to leave because of wanting to do your own thing and rebelling against God and be like the world is something totally different.

Just came across this, was raised in a UPCI home, my grandpa pastored a UPC church, it took a long time for me to learn, that , no action, not the clothes I wear, not my hair, not anything, that I can do to be any more saved than I am right now, by accepting that Jesus is Lord, and there is nothing I can do that would cause God to love me any more or less., by the Grace of God and the Blood of Jesus Christ, I am saved. Thank you for your video. Btw, I keep seeing comments that say the “Truth”. The Truth a lot of people speak of is from subjective reasoning and not fact. Read the Bible Take it for what it says, not what you think it says. Love the judgmental comments, from some of these people, that’s Just a reminder, why I’m no part of that organization. To be Christ like is to love.

@leavingtheupci239

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for stopping by!!!

@leonardoca6369

2 жыл бұрын

Yes It’s about love but it’s also about obeying the scriptures …….so if we have love and not obey, that will save us? Instead of criticizing we need to pray for one another .. and stop that this or that church is not good! A true Christian yes will have love and WILL be careful what he/she says about the body of Christ !

@junkmail7780

2 жыл бұрын

@@leonardoca6369 For someone who wants people to be a true Christian then that Christian should tell the truth. Her experience is still valid and the truth of what she dealt with from that religion. "Better is a open rebuke than hidden love." Psalm: 27:5

@leonardoca6369

2 жыл бұрын

@@junkmail7780 …. It is not about if it is true or not …. Whatever we say must be to honor God not to put down or gossip about others -

@fatcat2173

Жыл бұрын

The Bible says be holy for I am holy

It’s been a really difficult adjustment for me, makes you view things in extremes. Especially challenging if dealing with mental health issues on top of all that (like obsessive compulsive disorder). As a kid, I know the preaching was so over my head I would be overwhelmed and felt worship had to be done a certain way. Even getting away from the church and then coming back, instead of getting to know me relationally, it was focused on how I look and I was told to take off my mascara I had on. I even had it in the school (school and church were together) I wasn’t even wearing mascara, but had curled my eyelashes and was told to wash it off, so even though I wasn’t wearing makeup I had to fake like I was taking something off to appease the teacher. 😌

@leavingtheupci239

4 жыл бұрын

Alissa Anderson I’m so sorry. What insanity!! - Lori

@emilioanderson4795

4 жыл бұрын

That's what UPC private schools do to you. Smh I been there and done that for 7 yrs. til I graduated. Went to community college had a hard time adjusting to the way the college courses was taught. Because Christian school didn't taught to science, social studies, or how to live in the real world. Just how to be a molded UPC christian. And be socially awkward.

@debbiegallimore3285

Жыл бұрын

I've experienced these things also. God bless you Sister. God loves us I don't care what they say. I'm important to God and I'm going Heaven. I learned a relationship with Jesus is far beyond their rules. God bless you.

Thank you so much for posting this. I left upc about 6 years ago and yes judgement and ridicule I received. However, like you I am learning to love people genuinely. I am learning who Jesus truly is and his purpose for Our lives.

I hear ya,I was raised in a Upci pastors home.didntnhave the strength to leave until I was 37 because I knew I would be rejected and made a scape goat,and I was . But God was pushing me out and I knew it was time..happy to say since then my parents have also come out of them,so I led them out without even knowing that is what was happening..btw you look great 👍

@leavingtheupci239

2 жыл бұрын

Awesome story! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

The UPCI church was started at a camp meeting (that was all Assembly of God) in 1914. A man, John Scheppe, who had a " revelation from God," who told him that people were to be baptized in the name of Jesus. "In the name of Jesus" means in the authority of His name. Anytime someone has a "New Revelation," it is a big sign of a cult.

I wonder how many UPC men maintain Bible mandates in regards to chasity and holiness in their personal lives...with cell phones and Internet around---they are not doing Bible study all day.

@junkmail7780

2 жыл бұрын

I find that many do not, But its all about the appearance of righteousness.

I sure hope you’re right.

@leavingtheupci239

5 жыл бұрын

Tamelia Orellana I care much less about being right, now, than I do being love. I want to show love to folks.

@tameliaorellanardms8506

5 жыл бұрын

I am sorry your church didn’t make you feel loved. That’s terribly sad. They will stand before God on judgement day but we will too. Let us follow the word of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the convictions he gives us through both the word of God and through prayer.

@jasonregan299

Ай бұрын

She is

Happy for you..the whole Bible is Gods word..not just Acts 2:38..

I don't think 💬🤔 I want to hear your story I sit in church and I hear God speaking to my current circumstances 😮 And it's overwhelming I respect your story This is heart wrenching

@leavingtheupci239

11 ай бұрын

It’s been great actually 😊. I understand now the true Jesus 💖

You keep doing you. Churches, and that goes for all denominations as well as non denominations want and need *the control of the people.* Period. A church isn't even a building made by human hands (as if God needed anything but *the Church is in us, we are the Church!* But just like we are in the world so are "Systems and Institution's" including "the Church" it is no different. So no matter where you go, these Institutions will be corrupt in one form or another because it is in the world. That is why we have God's word for all that we need to live in this world. With everything I've earned just wanting to serve God and visiting all kinds of Church's, the one thing they all have in common is the need to keep their numbers up, keep that money coming in, and to somehow claim a revelation no one else has to seal the deal. It's all man inspired because he is fallible, but not God and not his word. Live the life that Jesus Christ said we could, by living it abundantly and making your own choices with the freedom we have in Him! God led you outta there for a reason. No one could live up to the impossible standards of most of these Institutions. We're not children, and we will think for ourselves thank you very much lol.

Boy, I relate so much to this. I left another, non charismatic , but very legalistic church, after being in it for 30 years, and I really really relate to you saying you read the Bible without a certain slant to it. HARD to do at first, to just read it for what it says, but liberating. . I can bring my whole self to it. And I really relate to feeling like I had nothing else to learn. How can that be???? Now I feel "like a little child' , everything is new, I'm free of what the inner circle thinks!!!!!!! I relate, too, to you saying ---being taught grace, "but not too much" .... RIGHT, we thought of grace that God gave us only when we were saved years ago. I could write so much more. Thanks for sharing!!

Thanks for your testimony sister, be encouraged in Jesus name!

@leavingtheupci239

5 жыл бұрын

Brother Jaypal thank you! Yes, I made this about a year ago, and we are on the road to recovery 😊

@brotherjaypal6970

5 жыл бұрын

I'm happy to see other believers sharing/exposing truth concerning the Pentecostal organization. It seems like a lot of brethren are afraid or blinded to speak up concerning false doctrine being preach there. Thanks again for your testimonies!

Glad you got out. Stay Free, My Sister.

@Mrs.JessRich

3 жыл бұрын

Amen!!!!

The next thing was I was starting to become really good in basketball and football, the superintendent from UPCI came to try and talk my dad out of it but when they begin say things I stood up I said and ask them tell me what are you going to replace this with, they could not answer I told them I was 15 you guys mind are twisted, then they my dads house and went to my uncle house and told him not to communicate or there church no more because we are all rebellious people, even when my uncle backslid sitting there smoking his dope still condemning dad I finally told him uncle better shut your mouth or I’ll have make you 😂

I left years ago and have never looked back. Enjoying my new life in Christ Jesus and understanding that I am saved by His grace through faith in His finished work.

I cant imagine leaving my church. I love the people and our pastoral staff. I dont feel pressured in anyway. I do appreciate your point of view. When people look at us they know that we're different from this world and i like that, especially in the world today. You and i can accomplish Gods will both ways, i just love being part of something bigger than myself. More of Jesus, less of me. God bless you.

@leavingtheupci239

4 жыл бұрын

Karen Grace thanks for your perspective. I always wonder about growth in congregations, as that was our heartbeat. We were a part of several congregations and never saw more than 5 people get in and stick. That started my questions regarding my ‘appearance of moral superiority’. I just couldn’t do it anymore, not because I wanted to ‘be like the world’, but simply because I knew I loved people more than my ‘look’.

@JWatts-gc4zw

4 жыл бұрын

Karen Grace Where does the bible say to be different from the world with "Clothing, appearance"? because ive never seen that . Jesus said , People will know you by your Fruits. your actions, such as not being a fornicator, an adulterer, an idolater , a liar. ect. thats how you stand out...Your teachers are giving you false information . John 7:24 Judge not according to the appearance . But judge righteous judgement.

@leahjames6870

3 жыл бұрын

@@JWatts-gc4zw If we are supposed to be different from tbe world, is attire not also a part of that??? Why wouldn't it be???

@JWatts-gc4zw

3 жыл бұрын

@@leahjames6870 If you wear skirts every day you are dressing like the world. For it was the world "society" that created the skirts ,dresses you wear. No scripture in the bible says "be set apart from the world using clothing". We are set apart by not sinning. If somethings is not in the bible, then its a man-made Idea. aka doctrines of men

@leahjames6870

3 жыл бұрын

@@JWatts-gc4zw What??? That's like saying "if you eat food, you're eating like the world, because they made the food". Like come on, let's not be ridiculous. If the bible says that we are to be "set a part" why wouldn't that also include your appearance??? We're not only set apart by not sinning. We are set a part by how we live our lives. If you read The Old Testament, GOD told his people what to eat, how to dress, what days to celebrate, how to keep the Sabbath, how to do sacrifices, etc. All of these things made them different from the other nations. GOD has always wanted his people separated from the world, holy/unholy, clean/unclean. I would never say that attire has to do with one's salvation. I adamantly deny that. But to say it doesn't matter, I adamantly deny that as well. The bible says thar women are to dress modestly, in a way that professes godliness. So it does matter.

God is with anybody who believes in him he will work with them.

@RobertoGarcia-nk1of

4 жыл бұрын

Rebecka Martin You are wrong!! The truth spirit of Jehovah moves in the heart of those who truly seek him and have accepted Him. Many of the organizations you have name don’t even believe in the Holy Spirit as a person and that He is who has been giving to us by Jesus until He returns! You are the only ignorant here!

@barbaramartin5495

4 жыл бұрын

@@RobertoGarcia-nk1of Nobody is putting me on trial. I believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as The Bible tells me to... so leave it there.

@barbaramartin5495

4 жыл бұрын

@@RobertoGarcia-nk1of Roberto, Go home. I don't want to argue with you

@RobertoGarcia-nk1of

4 жыл бұрын

Rebecka Martin You’re so delusional. You Edited your original comment!! 😂😂😂😂

@RobertoGarcia-nk1of

4 жыл бұрын

Rebecka Martin Bye and hope you find the real biblical Christ.

Sorry you felt that way. I will never leave the truth, and you must have been in a very strict church. Grace Is from God and how do you explain Acts 2:38

@leavingtheupci239

Жыл бұрын

Your definition of truth is church-doctrine guided. It’s a free country and you can do whatever you like. I guess the question I have is why are you watching videos of women who have left?? Hmmm

And when I say yes, children of God, it isn’t legalism. This is the way the truth in the life and I’m really sorry and I pray you get back and get in. Obviously, you were never in or you would’ve had everything you needed in Jesus now you’re fulfilling the last of, your flesh

I was far from God and divorced (not my choice) in December 2020 after twenty-six years of marriage. I wandered the country for months, lost, lonely and in despair. I remembered an short lived experience (possibly 4-5 weeks) in the UPC when in my late teens or early twenties and eventually attended a local UPC. The people have been warm, welcoming and accepting of my heavily tattooed self. Transportation is a problem, so they send someone to pick me up for meetings. I was baptized a week ago in the name of Jesus. I have been searching the scriptures and also searching critiques of UPC on the Internet. Some of the doctrines are definitely new to me, but I cannot find anything unscriptural in them. You seem like a wonderful person and I wish you all of the best our Lord has for you. Never take your eyes off Him.

@angelabarnhart2524

2 жыл бұрын

Yes. I feel the same way. Since we had been baptized and spirit filled, I have not found any of the doctrines of the apostolic church to be contrary to biblical backing. Carry on in the faith that was once delivered unto the saints!

@junkmail7780

2 жыл бұрын

Acts: 2:21, Romans 10:13 Rom 10:9 Joel 2:28-32 Acts: 10:43 Acts 16:31 John 3:16-13 Ephesians 2:8-9 Romans 10:4 Revelation 1:5 John 8:24 (sins forgiven by belief/faith)

God entered into my body, like a body. the same size. I am worlds only born again, holy ghost filled man.

Thank you for posting this insightful testimony.☺️

If you haven't written a book....you need too. Seriously.

2 Thessalonians 2: 3 Be careful that you not fall away. Remember satan comes as a “light”, he is the accuser of the brethren. Be careful what is being spoken to your spirit.

@leavingtheupci239

4 жыл бұрын

and... do you think the 'fall away' means from the UPCI?? Come on, y'all... seriously! I know that's what we thought before the internet gave us legitimate ways to study something for ourselves. That's truly just insanity. The 'falling away' is obviously from the teachings of Jesus.

@wilsonlainglaing8739

4 жыл бұрын

@@leavingtheupci239 which u have fallen away from ...

@wilsonlainglaing8739

3 жыл бұрын

@@k93day they went out from us ..because they were not of us ..fleshly

@daughteroftheking2200

3 жыл бұрын

@@leavingtheupci239 You're in trouble Spiritually!

@jrock5662

3 жыл бұрын

@@leavingtheupci239 all these people pointing there finger at you, saying your in trouble. Don't listen to them, they have a works bases, eggshell salvation.

REALIZATION always in the last breath...

@leavingtheupci239

4 жыл бұрын

denbert anastacio. ??

I am so glad that you have left the church or "cult". I've visited Pentecostal churches man times and I always felt like they worry way to much about appearances. I've always been a modest person but just because I don't wear dresses everyday doesn't mean I am wrong. Also, I'd like to add that out of all the times I've been inside a charismatic/Pentecostal church that I've never felt the peace and love like I feel in other churches. I always felt chaos and judgement. We all know that God makes it very clear that He is not the author of chaos and that if a church maintains itself in that way that it could scare off other people. My husband grew up Pentecostal, I am still to this day trying to show him light about how loving and forgiving people and seeing them for their heart is better than judging by appearance. God bless you and your family!

Are you trying to convince us or yourself over your new found freedom?

Ok were does it say anywhere in the scriptures that new converts were baptized in the titles

If you feel forced it is legalism.If you are compelled by his love to live holy, then that is love. The great self denial is hard for any whom worship the flesh.

@leavingtheupci239

11 ай бұрын

Thanks for judging my walk. Be blessed.

Wow , exactly what I've been through , i mentioned in another video of yours how its been 18 months now since we have been setfree from the bondage of religion. I haven't wore pants yet 😄 but i trimmed my hair and wear some piece of jewlery ..isn't it amazing to be free and know that Jesus loves and accepts us ..thank you for sharing . oh my husband and i have a youtube channel also.

@leavingtheupci239

5 жыл бұрын

Suzette Ducharme awesome! I’ll subscribe!

@suzetteducharme6211

5 жыл бұрын

WE LEFT LEGALISM , our channel is called " the F.R.E.E.J."

@suzetteducharme6211

5 жыл бұрын

WE LEFT LEGALISM , i forgot to mention . my husband made a play list of thought videos i did. If you are interested and thats on my channel " suzette Ducharme" ok got to go , im at work lol . i will watch more of your videos later 😀

@kenj4711

4 жыл бұрын

Let me ask you something, where ever did Jesus or the apostles ever say to except sin? The bible does say don't give place to the devil. Just because a preacher is touching the issues of sin doesn't mean it isn't a message of love. Sad to say the voice in your head isn't the lord.

@leavingtheupci239

4 жыл бұрын

@@kenj4711 ....and you believe that.. why? "The voice in your head isn't the lord"... oh my. It's this sort of accusatorily nonsense that i'm happy to be away from!!!