Doctrinal Conference 2009 (Atlanta West)

[mizpeh]

Originally Posted by deltaguitar

While it might seem like a good idea to invite other churches to "witness" to them be very cautious in opening up something that has been dormant for many years. You will find that these ministers from other denominations are usually more educated and have a better understanding of church history and doctrine than their UPC counterparts. They might end up changing you more than you change them. Remember, they basically pay no attention to the Oneness movement because their influence has been minimal. The Apostolics just can't compete in the arena of ideas. Most of the large UPC churches that I know of are very sneaky about what they actually believe and a person could possibly attend church there quite a while before they ever hear anything about three-step doctrine or any of the other doctrines that are central to the UPC.

I have predicted that we will see a major battle over doctrinal beliefs concerning salvation within the UPC in the next few years. A possible way for this to happen will be if the UPC starts teaching their true doctrine without trying to fool people as to what they really believe.

Additionally, Dr. Seagraves, though I have never met him I credit him in part for my leaving the Pentecostal/Apostolic movement. My sister was a student at CLC and sent me the audio for his Romans and Galatians class way back in 2001. Growing up my whole life in the UPC I had never heard what Dr. Seagraves was teaching and through that God started changing my heart and preparing me to leave the UPC though it would be six years later. According to people that I know who have gone to CLC, an overwhelming majority of the students that graduate from there usually either leave the three-step doctrine or leave the Apostolic movement all together.

I don't think Dr Segraves or Bernard will have a problem articulating what they believe if asked by educated ministers from other churches.