Apostolic vs. Pentecostal: Difference and Comparison
Edited by Muazma Batool — By Muneeza Rehman — Published on March 18, 2024
Apostolic pertains to the teachings of the apostles; Pentecostal refers to Christian denominations emphasizing the Holy Spirit's gifts.
Difference Between Apostolic and Pentecostal
Apostolic is a term that relates primarily to the teachings, practices, and traditions believed to originate from the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. This term often signifies a direct link or lineage to the foundational teachings of Christianity as laid out by these key figures. In this context, apostolic is used to assert a church or denomination's adherence to foundational Christian principles, ensuring they operate in alignment with early church teachings.
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 18, 2024
Pentecostal, on the other hand, pertains to a branch of Christianity that puts significant emphasis on the gifts of the Holy Spirit, most notably speaking in tongues (glossolalia). This term is derived from the event of Pentecost, described in the book of Acts, where the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles, and they began to speak in different languages. Pentecostalism as a movement began in the early 20th century and is known for its spirited worship, which often includes manifestations believed to be caused by the Holy Spirit.
Muazma Batool
Mar 18, 2024
While both apostolic and pentecostal roots can be traced back to the New Testament, their primary focuses are different. Apostolic churches may emphasize the importance of church tradition and apostolic succession, ensuring that their practices align with the early Christian church. In contrast, Pentecostal churches focus more on personal experiences with the Holy Spirit, valuing spontaneous worship and spiritual gifts.
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 18, 2024
Some churches, however, merge these two terms and identify as "Apostolic Pentecostal." These churches believe in the teachings of the apostles and also emphasize the importance of the Holy Spirit's gifts, particularly speaking in tongues. However, when used separately, apostolic and pentecostal highlight distinct aspects of Christian faith and practice.
Lucas
Mar 18, 2024
Apostolic vs. Pentecostal Comparison Chart
Origin
From the teachings of the apostles
Derived from the event of Pentecost
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 18, 2024
Emphasis
Traditions and teachings of apostles
Gifts of the Holy Spirit, especially tongues
Muazma Batool
Mar 18, 2024
Worship Style
May be more traditional
Known for spirited, spontaneous worship
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 18, 2024
Key Doctrine
Apostolic succession, foundational teachings
Baptism of the Holy Spirit, spiritual gifts
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 18, 2024
Apostolic vs. Pentecostal Definitions
◉Apostolic
Relating to the teachings of the apostles.
The church follows apostolic traditions.
William
Sep 25, 2023
◉Pentecostal
Characterized by spirited and spontaneous worship.
The Pentecostal service was filled with energetic praise.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 25, 2023
◉Apostolic
Resembling the characteristics of an apostle.
His apostolic zeal inspired many.
Olivia
Sep 25, 2023
◉Pentecostal
Associated with speaking in tongues as evidence of Holy Spirit baptism.
He spoke in tongues during the Pentecostal revival.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 25, 2023
◉Apostolic
Representative of the original Christian teachings and traditions.
The liturgy is conducted in an apostolic manner.
Elijah
Sep 25, 2023
◉Pentecostal
Relating to the Pentecost event in the Bible.
Pentecostal churches celebrate the descent of the Holy Spirit.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 25, 2023
◉Apostolic
Pertaining to apostolic succession.
The bishop claimed apostolic lineage.
William
Sep 25, 2023
◉Pentecostal
Believing in the present-day manifestation of spiritual gifts.
She joined a Pentecostal church to deepen her spiritual experiences.
Muazma Batool
Sep 25, 2023
◉Apostolic
Associated with the authoritative teachings of the apostles.
The doctrine is rooted in apostolic teachings.
Leo
Sep 25, 2023
◉Pentecostal
Denoting Christian denominations emphasizing spiritual gifts.
The Pentecostal movement grew rapidly in the 20th century.
Henry
Sep 25, 2023
◉Pentecostal
Of, relating to, or being any of various Christian religious congregations whose members seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit, in emulation of the Apostles at Pentecost.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023
◉Apostolic
Of, relating to, or derived from the teaching or practice of the 12 Apostles.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023
◉Apostolic
Of or relating to a succession of spiritual authority from the 12 Apostles, regarded by Anglicans, Roman Catholics, Eastern Orthodox, and some others to have been perpetuated by successive ordinations of bishops and to be requisite for valid orders and administration of sacraments.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023
◉Apostolic
Roman Catholic Church Of or relating to the pope as the successor of Saint Peter; papal.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023
◉Apostolic
Pertaining to apostles or their practice of teaching; pertaining to the apostles (of early Christianity) or their teachings.
an apostolic mission
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023
◉Pentecostal
of or relating to or characteristic of any of various Pentecostal religious bodies or their members
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023
◉Apostolic
According to the doctrines of the apostles; delivered or taught by the apostles.
apostolic faith or practice
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023
◉Apostolic
Pertaining to an apostle, or to the apostles, their times, or their peculiar spirit; as, an apostolical mission; the apostolic age.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023
◉Apostolic
According to the doctrines of the apostles; delivered or taught by the apostles; as, apostolic faith or practice.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023
◉Apostolic
A member of one of certain ascetic sects which at various times professed to imitate the practice of the apostles.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023
◉Apostolic
of or relating to or deriving from the Apostles or their teachings
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023
◉Apostolic
proceeding from or ordered by or subject to a pope or the papacy regarded as the successor of the Apostles;
papal dispensation
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023
Apostolic vs. Pentecostal Frequently Asked Questions
Are all apostolic churches Pentecostal?
No, while some churches identify as "Apostolic Pentecostal," not all apostolic churches emphasize Pentecostal teachings.
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 18, 2024
What distinguishes Pentecostal worship?
Pentecostal worship is characterized by its spirited nature, emphasis on the Holy Spirit's gifts, and often spontaneous expressions of faith.
Muazma Batool
Mar 18, 2024
Why is speaking in tongues significant for Pentecostals?
Speaking in tongues is often seen as evidence of the baptism of the Holy Spirit, a key belief in Pentecostalism.
William
Mar 18, 2024
What is apostolic succession?
Apostolic succession is the belief that the church's authority is derived from an unbroken line of leadership since the apostles.
Kaitlyn
Mar 18, 2024
How do apostolic churches view church tradition?
Apostolic churches often hold church tradition in high regard, emphasizing teachings and practices they believe align with the early Christian church.
William
Mar 18, 2024
What is the apostolic mandate?
The apostolic mandate refers to the mission given by Jesus to the apostles to spread the gospel.
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 18, 2024
What does apostolic mean in Christianity?
Apostolic refers to the teachings, practices, and traditions believed to originate from the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ.
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 18, 2024
Are Pentecostal and charismatic the same?
While both emphasize the Holy Spirit's gifts, they are distinct; Pentecostalism is a denomination, while charismatic refers to a broader movement within various denominations.
Lucas
Mar 18, 2024
Do Pentecostals believe in the Trinity?
While many Pentecostals believe in the Trinity, some denominations, like Oneness Pentecostals, do not uphold the traditional Trinitarian doctrine.
Nolan
Mar 18, 2024
When did the Pentecostal movement start?
The Pentecostal movement began primarily in the early 20th century.
Muneeza Rehman
Mar 18, 2024
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