Hi Harry... Historical Christianity stands against this tradition of the UPCI. Shocker... In Unbroken Christianity - it is perfectly normal and acceptable for some men to have unkempt hair and beards. They do this in submission to God - not in rebellion... and they aren't wearing a 'man bun' to be hipster and trendy. Research historical Christianity... it's there, well documented.... but remember, it is asserted that 'those folks' weren't Oneness... therefore 'they aren't of God'... (which comes from a lack of understanding of the doctrine of the Holy Trinity).
The UPC has rejected facial hair for a long time, even though there hasn't been an official statement. I hope they turn around on this issue. Probably won't, but I can hope.
These are great! I’d love one on television in the home or wearing shorts. These seem to be two topics worth mentioning in 2022. I know a couple UPCI ministers whom have televisions in their home.
@Jason Branch From the Historic General Conference 2013: "I believe we have finally arrived at an honest, workable formula for the UPCI ministers who have struggled with marrying technology to righteousness for decades. The status quo with which we came to conference had been awkward and, frankly, disingenuous for too long. Some who were adamantly opposed to television had no such restrictions for computer hardware; others who were permissive with television were on the vanguard against internet filth. The bottom line is that our real position against television from the very beginning has always been content-based, not hardware-based. Our manual even stated it in these terms in the preambles to restrictions. In recent years, television hardware has become so integrated with computer hardware that to own a computer with internet access was tantamount to owning a television. This blurring and blending of technology made our former position so far out of date that it could not be explained without contorting and distorting the language and denying common sense. Many preachers who have joined us or who have considered joining us have been frustrated by the inconsistency in our position."
You have to ask a pastor from another Pentecostal church if it’s okay to preach at his church with your beard ?! I didn’t know the Pentecostal denomination was this legalistic. Making a big deal out of nothing. The Muslims also like to make a big deal out of facial hair. And where did Jesus ever say that you have to wear church clothes and suits to church service ? I’m sure you guys like to make a big deal out of that too since I never see Pentecostals wearing casual clothes to church. You guys have a very religious and legalistic mindset.
Would you ask Jesus to shave? Shaving is a tradition of men! You are correct in that it is a cultural issue, Jesus didn't follow cullture or the traditions of men!
@@traydizzil95 Exaclty, most of this becomes legalism and a liturgy part of a religion. Following Christ is not a religion or denomination. Being a Christian follows Jesus and the bible not man made doctrines
@@johngreene6780 to me it's a personal choice I just can't believe people are actually doing videos about it and it's such a big thing that's like if you want a beard fine you don't want one fine who cares. So many more important things in life than this piddly thing
The pastors have no right to impose things such as shaving or not shaving. If your congregation stumbles upon something so irrelevant like this, then I don't know what you preached:))What kind of preaching drives people to such kind of spiritual imaturity? That is laughable.
It should begin with, “what is the will of God”? Theology teaches that creation is the first revelation of God’s will. The almighty creator created male attributes to be expressed by the hormone testosterone. One of the first expressions of that genetic engineering is a boy begins to grow facial hair as he becomes a man. That is our first revelation of the will of our creator. The second is in the law, when he forbid every man among his people to not remove any part of the beard. The Levites (type of modern ministry) were forbidden to even trim theirs. The only time shaven is mentioned is either as a curse, judgment of God, or being like the Egyptians (the World) or Roman (again the world). The post-apostolic fathers wrote that shaving was the first sign of transvestism. Beards were changed by culture in the last 100 years, upending 6,000 years of biblical tradition. While I’m not under law to require a beard, God has not changed. He cannot change. His will is still for men to have facial hair. If facial hair is any sign of rebellion, it is those who get up everyday and tell God that he was wrong in creation, and that his will doesn’t matter. It is those who daily remove his created work revealing his will. I’m a 51 year old ex-UPC preacher, currently attending a UPC church in east Texas. My pastor is trying to get me to come back and re-get my license. But I’ve also been told that I can expect not to have any ministry as long as I have my beard, at least here in the Texas district. I have no intentions of attempting to, for my back is covered in scars by UPC brothers and sisters whom have told me for years that I’m backslidden, that I’m going to hell. I’ve had preacher friends stop talking to me and stopped having me preach for them because, “I’ve gone Charismatic”? Just for having a beard, a beard that God told me to grow and stop cutting it. When I asked God why he told me this and doesn’t seem to be telling others. His reply was that I had the audacity to actually inquire what his will actually was, and that I had the heart to actually accept his will though it seems to have cost me my ministry within the UPC. I’ll probably stay independent, although I am looking at other organizations that really want to be biblically aligned with God and his will. The UPC will eventually come around, but you will be 20 years too late, as usual. That’s sad, for you have a lot to offer.
Fact. It was prophesied over me not to focus on the UPCI because they will not accept prophetic ministry. Prophetic ministry and politicians don't mix, like oil and water. Focus on the entire Apostolic movement, not the withering stump of a dead tree. Reach who you can reach, but ignore those who refuse truth over tradition. Anything you ignore will die on the vine.
It could be said that the shaving is more sinful than having a beard, when did God say to shave? God made them male and female. Today women take testosterone because they want to be men and grow beard so if culture is what we go by then men need to start growing beards. Women need not grow beards men need to stop shaving because transgender shave off their facial hair. So again your own words say culture well then hippies are long gone and the LGBTQ are here and we need to be men with beards and women should not take hormones to grow beard. 😇
If a pastor is forbidding facial hair, then he's projecting either his own conviction or the convictions of his teachers onto others. It's pointless to forbid facial hair. God gave men the ability to grow it, just as He gave women the ability to grow long natural hair.
I have a full beard & do not feel unholy. I worship in a UPCI church. I agree with the hippies era back in the 60’s & 70’s. In today’s era (2022) with feminism. I feel like the beard helps distinguish masculinity. I have been condemned by others in my church for wearing a beard. Instead of getting angry, I just tell them, Jesus had a beard & I want to be more like HIM.
@@imafriend1336 How you know that the beard hairs that were plucked didn’t grow back? Did it make Him rebellious prior to them being plucked? You are ABSOLUTELY UNEQUIVOCALLY adding to the scriptures, smh. Only mere men defend “man” made doctrines…not angels. Are you this adamant about THE HOLY SCRIPTURE that says it is a SHAME for a woman to speak in the church (same “shame” word that’s used for a man with long hair) as you are about this admittedly “western Caucasian-American cultural” (not scriptural) man made doctrine? If not…why not? How about it being adultery to remarry a divorced person while their spouse is living? That’s part of the bearded Apostle’s Doctrine also. Do you go to the highways, byways & compel them to come…not JUST to a church building…but to Christ. Do you call Acts 2:38 the gospel? Or do you call the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ the gospel? In case you’re wondering I received the baptism of the Holy Ghost on July 31st, 2005 and was baptized after that same service just an hour or 2 later. I was soooooo blown away by that biblical experience (I was raised 7th Day Adventist from since age 8.) That was the day that God delivered me from a lifestyle of drugs, clubs & thugs to put it mildly…He delivered me from sin…so I have a before & after. An Old Testament & a New Testament to my life. A B.C. and an A.D….I have infallible proof that I’ve been born again both of water & of Spirit by the grace of God through faith. Jesus (Yeshua) saved me. He is my Savior, my Rock, my Redeemer & the Lord and Master of my life. He is my God. He taught me because He loved me & because I admitted that I was ignorant & needed teaching. I was empty & hungry for more & for change & for souls to be saved & rescued like I was. Up until age 27 I was immersed in iniquity but now I’m immersed in His blood & His name. Jesus is God. Jesus is not only “the” Everlasting Father…He is “my” Everlasting Father & I believe He is yours EQUALLY also. So let’s NOT add to Our Father’s words. Let God be true and EVERY man a liar! Nobody is older, bolder than the HOLY Bible! There’s no authority higher on Earth than His Holy Scriptures…period. Don’t 2nd guess that. We are not in a cult.
very well stated, I would add that when I was first baptized in JN by a UPCI pastor, I did have a beard and it was indicated to me I may not be "Saved" if I did not shave it off. Against my conviction, I did shave it off, and My 4 year old daughter said "Daddy, You look like a Woman!". Nuff said. I grew the beard back a year later, and have had it ever since. I don't care if men have a beard or not, but that verse in Romans 14 can go either way, Pastors can be driving people away and creating the stumbling block, by blabbering on about facial hair, instead of embracing them with the Love of Christ.
Amen, brother! So sad that good men of God cannot preach the pulpit with facial hair. They hinder the church by stopping men with gifts for man made standards.
Please don't take this as being contentious but holiness isn't defined by what is on the outside, it's an inward thing. What good does it do to have a shaven face but yet harbor lost, anger or hatred in your heart? I believe the Word of God is our ultimate guide. It's not about legalism. If I do all these outward things yet my heart is sinful I'm no better off.
Rev 22:18-19 is the scripture that comes to mind after years of being ostracized about my beard. The old guard is slowly giving up on this silly notion about facial hair. Some have retreated to saying “it’s ok for the congregation but not for the platform” which is its own effort of futility. There are many men, younger than myself, who are dear friends and are now moving into roles as pastors. They do see this man made tradition coming to an end however organizations have to save face (pun intended) and will let this go slowly, hoping people will forget. This will get corrected. On a side note (or not) I think it’s very interesting how closely these policies and treatment of people resemble that of the JW.
@@badlandskid well the JW, LDS, SDA, ALL PENTECOSTALS, Weslyian Holiness, Etc. Were all started by freemasons (anti christ false light of lucifer) and they all idolize their "founding fathers". They are all the same: Man made organizations with human doctrines /traditions mixed into scripture that they hold as ultimate truth. The UPCI, JW, LDS, etc.. are their own religions separate from "The faith once preached".
Thank you Brother Bernard for good, Godly teaching. Personally I choose to shave and that is fine. If another man chooses not to, that is fine as well. It's amazing to me that there is a world that's lost, dying and going to Hell and we're still having controversy about facial hair.
The scripture in Genesis that Dr. Bernard uses to talk about shaving favorably did anyone else catch that it was for Pharaoh and the customs of Egypt? I’m going to take it a step further what other culture was like this? Answer Rome! So shaving is a worldly custom not a mandate for the church! No matter what any former “pillar” declared. We are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets Jesus Christ being our chief cornerstone!
That is exactly what I thought. The one example of shaving he gave was for Joseph shaving to appear before a pagan King.... To me that was not a great example.
I mean if our literal lord and savior had a beard and he is the definition of holiness and the standards we should stride for I think having a beard is ok
God created the beard... man created the razor... God does not make mistakes and does nothing without purpose... He planted the seeds of facial in a man's face, when in the womb, to spring forth in due season when he matures into a man. God has a reason for the beard and a purpose. If a certain group of Christians or a specific church perfers for the members to be smooth shaved, then it is their choice... be careful leaders ... to not confuse the customs of men for the will of God...
My wife’s previous pastor unfortunately wrote me off immediately when we started dating. He never tried to get to know me before doing so. The only difference between me and anyone else was my facial hair. We are now event directors for our youth group at a different apostolic church, active hosts for our college/career age group, and my pastor has never pulled me aside and told me to shave. He’s a great man that has never added to the word! Thank God.
Sometimes, it’s about attitude and obedience to the man of God. For example; if my Pastor told me to wear a blue shirt, if I wanted to be used on the platform, then I would have a choice to make. If my Pastor said, “the Bible says wear a blue shirt,” then i would have a problem with that. Having said that, almost EVERY employer has a dress code and a lot of places require a person to be clean shaven and cover tattoos etc. We don’t seem to have a problem with that. Personally, I have a neck tattoo and I play music on the platform at Church. If my Pastor said, “Bryan wear a blue shirt whilst on the Platform,” I would do it because I’m under subjection to the man of God. Again, if he said “the Bible says wear a blue shirt, then I would have a problem with that. Just my opinion, you don’t have to agree.
Jesus said in his word not to even look upon the strong drink that moveth itself in the glass. Referring specifically to alcohol. If he wishes you not to even look at it , he surely doesn't want you to drink it. And no, he didn't create alcohol for human consumption. In his miracle, he created new wine, which is fresh from the vine, Not fermented.
I agree. Most Christian’s spirit man is weak but they’re fighting over whether a man should have a beard or not. I don’t care if you have a beard or not & God doesn’t really care either. What he cares about is the state of your spirit man which depends on how much you pray. We all need to wake up.
I'm sure Jesus our Lord and saviour did not have an issue with facial hair it's about denomination doctrine.The open brethren church beliefs that woman should have their head covered and that's scriptural don't see upc ladies wearing head covering I go to a oneness church still love the brothers and sisters though. I believe if or when we're go to heaven that there will be no denominations there just the body of Christ
@@isadormoti6977 oh, I was referring to RU-vid. Unfortunately we can’t put a photo up of Moses/Jesus/disciples/early Pentecostals. There’s nowhere on this as I type where I would be able to upload a photo.
I was UPC for 25 years. One guy grew a beard and was ostrized by the pastor and the church and shamed into shaving. What bothered me the most was the difference stances between churches. Some didn't care others called it a sin. What I never heard from leadership, state or national is who is right and who is wrong all the while teaching us to line up with who ever our pastor is. Logically this makes no sense.
We should line up with what scripture says. Pastors have over stepped their authority and now try to control the masses through fear and manipulation. Instead of reaching the lost they focus their time on things like beards, that has no salvific merit at all. The preaching of Christ is what saves us and redeems us back to our Father. He loves us with or without a beard. Whether a woman trims her hair or not. Whether you drink a glass of wine or not. Whether you enjoy golf or not. (And yes the church I came out of preached against golf, bowling, miniature golf, any kind of league sports like softball, and many other legalistic rules that has nothing to do with being saved). I understand the preaching against biblical sin like adultery, drunkenness, murder, stealing etc. But making up rules just to look better than other groups is pride and arrogance and actually hinders church growth.
All of this stuff about being your own conviction justifying why some do or some don’t is a lie from hell. One does what the bible commands without commentary and twisted words justifying this or that.
Pastors are accountable to the elders of the church. We are not accountable to Pastors. They are "shepards" not "dictators". Yes, they are to call out sin AS DESCRIBED IN SCRIPTURE and prod us in the right direction and then cut us off if we dont repent. But when D. Bernard admits that clothing requirements were abolished along with the Sabbath, and then becomes the CEO of one of the largest denominations that shame and belittle women for wearing WOMANS PANTS (clothing which pertains to a woman) and men for having beards (bible says dont shave your beards) shows that this whole organization has LIES mixed with Truths, they impose human made laws (bondage) and they place it onto the Children of God (like the pharisees which Jesus HATED) . It's easier to understand when you acknowledge that the UPCI (Like most denominations) are there OWN RELIGION separate from "the faith once preached". What the Short video on my channel to see a UPCI pastor tell people to buy a book to keep demonic powers, to get annointed and to be blessed byGod.. he even says "they will be more than just reading material" [ie: they will attach demonic energy to you].
The hippie movement also encouraged women to grow their hair long because by that point in time, it was considered unkempt. We didn’t change biblical principles due to cultural views for that. In todays day with the major push of blending the sexes and transgenderism, one might think it best to start preaching that men should grow their beards to stand out and emphasize their masculinity.
Makeup is another one. The butch lesbian women of today all look like apostolic in the face. That plain usually overweight moon-face with no makeup. I've been seeing more and more that when a women wants to stop being womanly, she cuts her hair ultra short and stops wearing makeup. There's something feminine about longer hair and makeup on a woman. Of course moderation in all things, but makeup is womanly. Only butch lesbians and women who don't act womanly would dare be seen without makeup.
@@isadormoti6977 ,...Pentecostal? What? Where did I say anything about being a pentecostal? There is no such thing as a Christian pentecostal. An actual Christian man has a beard and has nothing to do with the manmade cult of pentecostalism.
@@tonybasoni8443a beard doesn't distinguish a worldly man and a man of God. Millions of men had beards before the hippie movement that had nothing to do with rebellion.
Who would a man who is born again be rebelling against by growing facial hair if growing facial hair doesn't signal rebellion against God within the Word of God? Could it be possible that Pastors who are being partial on issues pertaining to others Christian liberties may be putting a stumbling block in front of new converts who are seeking consistency and truth with understanding in biblical principles and application who are genuinely there to serve and worship God?
Glad bishop mentioned it's NOT Bible but culture. Which you HAVE TO careful with.That founding UPCI leaders had beards.Miniorties shouldn't have to abandon their cultural to be saved if it doesn't violate scripture. WE SHOULDN'T HAVE TO ASSIMILATE TO WHITE OR MAIN CULTURAL TO BE CONCERNED SAVED OR OBEDIENT. We're in the last days and people are fight over facial hair instead of fighting winning soul's or maintain the ones that got born again.
I feel this applies to all “Holiness” standards. The Bible teaches modesty and a clear distinction of the sexes. That’s it. I feel we add to the Word when we make rules around personal convictions. Not wrong to apply to ourselves but to require others to abide by our convictions doest make sense. The only authority we have as it pertains to holiness is the Bible. We can’t always rely on our feelings, traditions or other leaders. My experience is that we can’t challenge our traditions because you’re viewed as rebellious. I don’t have a problem with any personal convictions. But let’s not require them for everyone. Let’s teach what the word says and allow the very capable and powerful Holy Spirit lead and convict.
Great input. Dr. Bernard needs to read this post and not make pastors part of the triangle of authority he created: Bible, Pastor, Personal Conviction.
@@France2107 I agree with this scripture. But I would add that if any person wether teacher, pastor, evangelist, apostle or any other leader is teaching anything outside of the word then we can’t follow. Paul said it best “let them be accursed”. We can’t add or subtract from Gods word. I firmly believe it’s with good intentions that these rules are made but that’s not good enough. Adding to the Word was and is always a bad idea.
@@jlar1984 a pastor who tells you that you need to shave or wear this don't wear that using pastorale authority is not adding to the Word, unless he says the Bible says. Pastors have the right to set standards in the local church.
@@douglasarnold5310 I respectfully disagree. There’s one standard, the Word. The standard doesn’t change otherwise it’s not a standard by definition. Within a 20 mile radius we have three UPC churches. Each have different expectations or standards. Why? If we have one set of scriptures?
I could not disagree more. Joseph had to get clean shaven because that was an Egyptian custom. That is exactly the custom God is warning us again. It is not in a favorable light so he had to be clean shaven.
Of all the things that I see where our churches are fighting each and every day within our Society, there are much bigger issues that have a much larger impact than if men have a beard or not . Biblically there’s simply nothing stating you should or shouldn’t have a beard. I understand why some of our older generations who where in church in the 60’s & 70’s had the viewpoints that we did. However that was 50-60 years ago and men who have beards now doesn’t reflect a rebellious attitude. Being apart of my local ministry if my pastor would require of me to shave I would. I do and have had a full beard from many years. Honestly there’s many many other issues that our churches face that I feel warrant more of a focus.
God created men to have facial hair, it is one of the things that draws a distinction between the sexes and these days that is pretty important. As a Jewish man, Jesus was commanded to not ever trim or cut his beard, it was against the law of Moses. So why on earth, if God made us this way would any preacher or denomination preach against it? It is not a sign of rebellion, it is not a sign of being worldly at all. To add rules on this subject is pure legalism.
Dont like em and see no benefit in them. Many donuts because they are lazy. Most did it in 60-70's as open rebellion. But, it ain't my face looking old and decrepit.
@@bobjames3748 The “people did it in the 60s because of rebellion,” line. Think about the fact God put it there. We are created to have facial hair. It’s designed by God. What is it about that we don’t seem to understand? The law of Moses FORBIDS trimming the beard. Jesus had a long, untrimmed beard. Are you going to go to heaven and demand he shave?
@@douglasboyd8475 well I haven't had to worry about rounding corners ,you bet be careful, since you are going to the law to defend your ways. You'll look just like the many in the secular and denominational world. I know why ministers don't like it and I know I wouldn't want a beard to look like a old man. We have 1 bearded man in our church, he plays guitar, so I guess my Pastor has.no problem with using him...for music anyway. My Son's church quite a few. My daughters church a bilingual , don't believe any have a beard or mustache.
Brother I’ve been in the Hispanic UPCI and I can tell you that the UPC does not let men with facial hair preach or play an instrument or be a leader and this has been practiced for years and still now……pastors are making these rules because the district itself preaches this and won’t let leaders or preachers have facial hair …… if someone has a conviction that’s great and ok but please please brother don’t make people feel like sinners for these man-made rules…. That is what Pharisees did. Pastor Bernard please make a change in our church…. And I can say the same with many more, man-made rules in the UPCI church. Rules are good….. but don’t condemn people or make people feel like sinners when it is not practiced because that is not biblical…..
Yea they need to get away from all of this foolishness of preaching personal convictions as Bible. So many leave or never come in to the church because of this foolishness.
1 Corinthians 11:13-16 13 Judge for yourselves: Is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered? 14 Does not the very nature of things teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a disgrace to him, 15 but that if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For long hair is given to her as a covering. 16 If anyone wants to be contentious about this, we have no other practice-nor do the churches of God.
@@Fr4nkSanchez That scripture doesn’t forbid a man having a beard. Since when does having a beard constitute having long hair??.. Ever seen a neatly trimmed beard?? They do exist, I see them everywhere.
What about the Amish & Mennonites? Beards aren’t synonymous with rebellion. Let’s stick to the Bible. There’s no elder older than the Bible and there’s no position/person/pastor w/more authority than the Bible (especially to add or take away.) Many say they “know” that but do we “believe” that? If you want to submit to your leaders then go make disciples, go to the highways, bi ways, go lay hands on the sick in AND outside the 4 walls & cast out devils & raise the dead….don’t resist the biblical BUT submit to the unbiblical/unscriptural JUST TO FIT IN. People shouldn’t have to trip over traditions of men while running to form a relationship with Jesus Christ who can to lift burdens that men put on men’s shoulders by other men. May Our Merciful Master & Mighty Messiah have mercy on us all & lead our Leaders & bless them & grow them in all things profitable to themselves and unto us…bountifully beyond belief, in His ONLY saving name of Our Lord Jesus the Christ. (Zechariah 14:9, Acts 4:12, Colossians 3:17)
Is this what Jesus died for? That we would refuse men of God a place in ministry based on mens traditions and not the Word of God? I wonder how the Lord views this? I think this breaks His heart.💔 Mark 7:13 Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition, which ye have delivered: and many such like things do ye.
Why bring Jesus into this? He looked exactly like an untrustworthy hippy! He definitely wore sandals and probably had longer hair than most men do today. Plus, he used to hang out with sinners, bums, and winos. Should we really allow somebody of 'his kind' to preach in OUR churches? What would the neighbors think? It might upset someone with ultra-sensitive convictions! Nope!..... We have a better understanding about human nature through modern psychology. If you won't shave you won't preach! Our authority must be obeyed!........ So it is written....... so shall it be done!
First of all, if something isn’t a sin, no one has the authority to make it a sin. Secondly, facial hair has nothing to do with rebellion. He made the comment that drugs, sexual promiscuity, and facial hair were all part of the hippie age of rebellion. Well I don’t hear them preaching against having sex with our spouses since they were having sex in rebellion. I don’t hear them preaching against taking any type of medicinal drug since the hippies were druggies. It’s not even sound logic to preach against facial hair! In reality it is probably offensive to God that men want to look more feminine by shaving when He gave us a distinct difference from women. Also Dr Bernard mentioned Joseph shaving. He only shaved because the Egyptian culture frowned on facial hair and they were an idolatrous nation. So that should tell you something about men shaving.
Just saw this episode Way too late i know. Don’t know if this ha been mentioned about Bernard's reasoning for no beards allowed. Hippies really? Hippies, come on please. I'm sure that you could easily tell the difference between a Hippie and a beard wearing saint then. No beads, no bell bottemed pants, clean clothes, the list can keep going. Just more control sorry
You did a lot of talking but you didn't show any scriptures. You talked about your tradition. You said Joseph shaved can you give me that scripture that can back that up please. You said shaving is a sign of holiness do you have scripture for that?
You know what? After watching this, I have a different perspective. I can understand why people would do this for cultural reasons, and I totally respect that. I do not think that a pastor should mandate that even on his leaders, but they can say that they prefer it And they should be willing to respect that. I think we probably just need to get over it, but I respect people where they are. I have not had a beard since I was like 19 or 20 years old, and do not want one, but I heard one particular, UPC preacher, railing against beards and quite frankly, it made me very angry because he has no right to. With all love, it is that kind of stuff that makes the UPC look really bad. Holiness is a wonderful, beautiful thing, not something you have to hit people with a billy club with, especially when the beard thing has no biblical substantiation and some of this stuff can really lead to authoritarianism
The next illogical step with this is what culture means to the UPC. The UPC have become their own culture, loophole in effect pastors can demand anything and all must put aside Bible and comply
When will the UPCI CEO's (oops I mean superintendent) apologize on behalf of their ordained ministers who spiritually abused people for decades by imposing BONDAGE on to the Children of God, by twisting scripture and creating their own vain customs and traditions of men? Will it ever happen? If not, the only thing Bernard is doing is gaslighting the victims of spiritual abuse.
If Jesus had a beard then why on earth is this even a discussion?! Godly men should look manly... If Jesus didn't want us to have facial hair then He wouldn't have put it on our face. Beards are manly and they maintain what it means to be masculine in a world that is trying to erase manhood. Im keeping my beard. We should be reaching people not talking about this nonissue. ... "Jesus, plz rearrange our priorities".
Pastor of 14 years here in the Assembly of God fellowship and I have wondered greatly how the Oneness movement got to this place. I understand the position in the "hippy" era - but we are far form that time as Dr. David points out. That being said - the fact that we are still "pastoring" a man out of having facial hair with any biblical stances or personal pastoral preferences is WILD to me. Your argument is based on Jospeh shaving before going to see Pharoh? Wouldnt that be closer to conforming to cultures that are against our God? I love Jesus whole heartedly and proudly have a beard. It has ZERO bearing on my salvation, righteousness, consecration, or level of holiness etc. but that I would be made to look differently from your congregation or seen in contempt of your beliefs due to my having a beard is INSANITY to me. That being said, I love the way the Oneness Pentecostals praise the Lord!
The UPC needs to have a national "Come To Church With a Beard Day" to demonstrate they have finally got past this. The prohibition against beards was originally for ministers because of the rebellion associated with it in the 1960s. Unfortunately they began teaching it as a holiness standard for all.
God placed facial hair on men as one of the many things that makes a difference between the sexes. Facial hair comes from our creator. And I love the apostolic community, but sadly many of them have not got past this. A friend of mine recently went back to his hometown and went to church and he has a beard. Not one that several people came up and said something against him having a beard.
I've heard it said more than once at my UPCI church that men are supposed to have short hair not touching their ears and be clean shaven. I chose to find no offense and chalked it up to tradition not doctrine and went upon my way. It's great to have what I consider to be an authoritative word on the subject.
Facial hair on men is a manly, masculine trait, just as women have their feminine traits. It is not a sin to have facial hair. I have been in UPC where if I had facial hair, I was shunned, and considered a sinner or backslider, and was treated as an outcast. This is not right
No we don’t. Allowing facial hair opens the door to a flood tide of other things coming into the church. It may not be a sin but it sure is a weight. Churches that are ok with preachers and leaders with facial hair before long are allowing skinny jeans and many other worldly influences into churches. Let’s stick with Apostolic standards as our elders did!
The “hippie” rebellious justification for forbidding facial hair was sort of ridiculous, in that the UPCI didn’t differentiate between the hippie and the others in society that had facial hair, the teacher, banker, lumberjack, construction worker, the psychologist, the professor etc who had a mustache, or goatee, or long sideburns, various styles of beards…. That did not express rebellion or anarchy or ungodly character. It was a harmful stumbling block , that hindered church growth. While many Christian movements were having huge success reaching the youth in the 60’s and 70’s that were disillusioned with war, materialism, etc and were hungry for more, and this became known as the Jesus movement. many of the “holiness “ churches failed to have a bountiful harvest because they were hindering the revival by burdening the hungry youth with unnecessary standards/teachings like , facial hair is ungodly. And to teach it so that even the respected men , in the community, the bankers , the professionals, etc were sinful, rebellious, and had to shave just because a pastor didn’t like some hippies , was / is so unreasonable, so illogical, so unnecessary, so unbelievable.
This hippie argument made me chuckle... this logic can be used to support any position... for example: Men who commit adultery wear pants... therefore, wearing pants makes you walk in the way of adultery. People who defraud other people breathe air. Therefore, breathing air is a 'weight' that will cause you to defraud your brother. Nonsensical. But because you and I have spoken out against this as being non biblical.. we are the rebellious ones in the bunch.
Its not in the bible that its a sin a man having a beard...We must stick to the word of God not people's belief..If a preacher gets out the word he needs correction..If he is preaching something false just say it and not dance around it
I whole heartily believe the Acts2:38 message and support the UPCI teachings as an organization. I am not a licensed minister in the UPCI but do teach and preach in our local church. I have a beard and my pastor has asked that I shave when I am on stage. He doesn’t feel it’s wrong but explained he wanted to keep unity in the local UPCI district. I have always complied to his request when I am involved in a leadership role. With that said I definitely believe this is a subject the UPCI needs to address as a whole more. it’s clear since we believe God created male and female, HE clearly wanted the man to have a beard. There’s no way to denounce or deny that fact. It was obviously meant for a clear distinction between the opposite genders. Which Desperately needs to be taught throughout churches in 2022. Secondly as Bro Bernard stated the Bible clearly speaks positive of beards in several passages. However the scripture stating Joseph shaved is not condoning shaving by context. He shaved to be accepted into Egyptian culture. A study on the subject of beards in the Jewish custom shows that they believed any man that shaved or trimmed his beard was in the wrong. This is one of the reasons the Egyptians were not viewed favorably by Jews. It’s known they shaved. Egypt is always viewed as rebellion or sin throughout scripture. I have heard the hippie movement reasoning for shaving many times and it very well may have been valid and needed at that time but again as Bro Bernard mentioned we are far removed from that culture so no longer has merit. The beard debate has become more of a personal opinion in our churches today than a needed standard. With all that stated the beard along with numerous other personal appearance preferences can reflect positively or negatively on the church and Christianity. Modesty, humility and standards are still biblical and just as needed as they ever were. I certainly believe how we choose to represent God, the church and ourselves should not to be taken lightly. Unfortunately I also believe we as the church have had a history of pointing out certain issues and blindly ignoring others at our own choosing with Apparently little guidance from Scripture in many cases. Pretty sure I read somewhere Jesus warned of this practice. We are called to preach, teach and represent the word of God rightly divided and warned against placing stumbling blocks along the way as Christians. As humanity we have the ability to turn anything into a sin but just as easily make a issue of things that are not a issue at all.
This has caused great division and hurt. This is why the scripture say in 1 Cor. 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. There was an official document that pastors had to sign in affirmation of the UPC holiness standards that included facial hair. I preached at many UPC churches and would shave but when they found out I did not always shave I never preached for them again and was shunned and treated as if I was a sinner.
When we read about the fruit of the Spirit, there’s not one of those that cannot be seen by a blind person, because they come from within, not without. Some people, if struck blind, wouldn’t be able to distinguish a worldly person from a Child of God, because they’re so used to going by the outward appearance. Anything can go too far. I met one preacher that had a “personal conviction “ to wear long sleeves, and he put it in the written church rules for all men to wear long sleeves. Too far to the right or to the left is Out of Order. Let’s try to stay middle of the road, where the Word is.
This is absolutely a bunch of nonsense ! And NO a Pastor doesn’t have any authority over the issue nor can he tell you how to part your hair . If Jesus had a beard then it’s ok and it is a matter of choice and people shouldn’t be so petty to be spiritually offended by it . Most Oneness don’t seem to be offended of having a belly bouncing off of your knees this is such a stupid petty issue !!!
Thank you brother Bernard for giving us some guidance. What I’m left wondering is…what about scripture mentioning that nature teaches men to have shorter hair on their head. Wouldn’t nature then also teach that men would be ok with having facial hair or at least the choice to have facial hair? Also I feel like the bible trumps anyone in authority from denying someone’s choice to grow facial hair just by the fact that Jesus had a beard and some bible prophets had facial hair. I wonder if there’s some bias due to “church culture” that interferes with discerning/ rightly dividing the word of God on this issue. I’ll await your answers 😊
would you be able to speak more on pastoral authority. i’ve always been told to submit to pastor, but what if God is telling you very strongly to do something and your pastor is saying the opposite. how do you know that the pastors word is truly from God and is what is best for you
The sad part of this, this man Admitted that it was not biblically wrong to have a beard, yet, then turned around and said one should listen to their pastor??!!…. It sounds to me, that the pastor needs to follow the Bible??. I am a Saved, Holy Ghost Filled believer. I have had a beard for the last 27 years. I can not imagine any man telling me to shave it, and I be wimp enough to listen to him… preachers need to stick to preaching the word!..
I have a wild man lookin beard and God has never dealt with me about it... better get out of this pettiness.. my granny told me of dream God give her she was in a church and all the people were sitting there and not praising God giving him honor but came in these old dirty homeless beggar types just lifting up God praising him as hard as they could. BETTER GET OUT THIS PETTINESS.. God looks on the heart yes you have to be walking in certain way. But that isn't what saves you it's CHRIST THAT SAVES YOU. if he wants you to do something he will let you know.. I think if Christ was to walk into a lot these churches today they would get a stern firey REBUKE..
8:44 I feel this is where the ‘no beards’ philosophy came from. The Apostolic leaders of the 70s and 80s were very affected by the rebellion associated by the ‘hippie’ movement and allowed that affect their views on what a Godly man looks like. Suits, close shaved haircuts and clean shaven face. Almost a rebellion of the rebellion. There is NO biblical teaching to say no beards; however if you local Pastors and Bishops have guidance it is very Godly to submit to leadership. Remember if you ALWAYS agree with them your ability to submit to Godly authority isnt really challenged.
@@nicoleloves9613 it technically takes more than a year to fulfill this scripture mandate/the Great Commission: Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe ALL THINGS WHATSOEVER I HAVE COMMANDED you…” Part of the disciplining “process” is to teach them more than Acts 2:38. That’s just to make converts…not necessarily disciples. The new birth is not synonymous with discipleship…however, it’s foundational. Now, Getting back to your fair question: I’ve been disciplining 2 men this year whom I also baptized in the only saving name of Jesus Christ (26 old ex coworker & a 28 yr old unchurched cousin of mine to.) We have weekly Bible Studies plus mens group dealing with lust & counsel them over stuff..at least I attempt to lol. ONLY by the grace of God there hasn’t been a year that has gone by in the 17 years of being born of water & Spirit have God not put souls in my path to be witnessed to & baptized…not even during the pestilence. Not even the year that my ex abandoned me….God has always been faithful to let me witness those I’ve witnessed to be baptized PLUS sometimes (not always) receive the baptism of the Holy Ghost and hopefully start the process of discipleship with me & or others in the congregation/assembly. Not one single year since 07/31/05 has this not occurred. If God would work with the least (myself) then I know of a surety He would with ANYONE among us!!
Submit to the word of God. When a minister wanders outside of God's word, then that's a problem. Pastor shouldn't be trying to enforce rules that don't draw us closer to Christ. A beard is completely natural and masculine.
The thing about Joseph, in Genesis, the Law of Moses wasn’t decreed just yet, so it wasn’t a sin for Joseph to shave. The Egyptians would shave everything & everywhere: their head, their face, their arms, legs, eyebrows, basically every inch of their body. Since God freed the Hebrews from the Egyptian bondage He made NOT shaving off the beard one of the 613, so that they would be nothing like the Egyptians that they had been released from. God Laws given to Moses were to separate the Israelites from the world, from pagans. A Jew could not shave their beard UNTIL Jesus fulfilled the 613 & nailed them to the cross ✝️ After the veil was torn, the sins were paid for, the sacrifice was made, THEN a Jew who chose to believe in Jesus COULD shave if he so pleased to do so. If a Jew shaved during the time of the Law of Moses til Jesus sacrifice, it would be considered a sin. A breaking of one of the 613 Laws. Because of Jesus’ sacrifice believing Jews can eat pork, shrimp, etc. The 613 were never placed upon us Gentiles, but if a Gentile / foreigner (examples: Rahab & Ruth) wanted to join the Israelites then they had to come under the Laws & follow. During those times. Today we have the option, you may have a beard 🧔🏽♂️ if you so choose to. My issue is when a Pastor or a leader of 4 walls & a ceiling can look you in the eyes & say, “Because you have a 🧔🏽♂️ beard you CANNOT serve in ministry.” Thereby, turning away a man from serving the Lord.
Thank You!....YOUR honesty is OUR best policy!... RESPECT!.... You could've chosen to ignore this minor (and reoccurring) issue, but you didn't...... To be sarcastic and a bit facetious, let me express your answer another way..... "We have an unofficial.... yet implied policy.... enforced at the local level.... that forbids facial hair cuz we're still afraid of being mistaken for the 'Jesus Freak' charismatic peace/love/dope bums and hippies of the 60s and 70s".... Yep! That's a tradition were proud of! We're gonna stick with it cuz we're embarrassed to admit our decision had nothing to do with Biblical holiness whatsoever..... we just wanted to be more easily accepted and to look good and trustworthy like the rest the world." Is facial hair really a God given distinction between male and female?......... Well, we've evolved beyond all that.... right? God understands our reasons for rejecting yet another male/female distinction. It's not like the current generation is being intentionally attacked with confusion about gender these days..... right?.... What's the harm in getting rid of one more distinction to preserve our precious (non-Biblical) tradition?....... Perhaps we should offer a shaving kit to new converts instead of a Bible!.......... Perhaps the sign out front should read: No shirt No shoes No shave, No service!!!....... The whole gospel to the whole (clean shaven) world! I look forward to being in heaven if only to see the reaction of UPCI ministers when Jesus says something like....... "SO,.... look at my face!.... Does my beard make me unholy?????? A heard a wise old orthodox Jewish rabbi once say....... "Never try to be more religious than God!"
This is not an honest, straight forward answer. They can say it’s a personal choice all day, but the truth is that if you grow a beard you can not be a pastor or in leadership in the UPCI. They know there’s no biblical support on this, that’s why they skate around the issue and don’t straight forward say that leadership can’t have beards. Saying that the UPCI has no official position on this, but that’s a half truth at best. They make it an official standing by not allowing men with beards to be pastors in the UPCI. Take a look at a picture of Jesus, David. Can that man with a beard preach in your church?
The bible speaks of Jesus having a beard as they could not have pulled it out if he did not. Why is it even up for debate if our Lord and Savior had one? I suppose Jesus would not be able to preach in most of the churches keeping these standards?
You say this is your stand but a UPCI pastor in my city grew a beard and was put out of every leadership role he had in the UPCI. Also there are several videos of UPCI preachers saying it is sin and of the devil to have a facial hair.
Priority is 1. God's Word, 2. The Conscience/Spirit God Gave you. 3. A Pastor or another man. Because the is one Mediator between God and Man, the man Christ Jesus.
I’ll admit some apostolic people I have personally seen got it in there head that a beard on a man, identifies as unholy an doesn’t have the Holy Ghost… Bishop love your point on this…. This shouldn’t never been an issue… if YOU think it’s a sin to eat peanut butter … then don’t. Please don’t past judgement on me when you see me eating it!!!!!
I know a UPC couple whose first pastor was against facial hair. Many years later this couple, in a different state and a different pastor, tells people it is wrong and no man who is apostolic should have a beard or they are sinning. Like my husband says, what better way to differentiate between a man and a woman? My husband does not have a beard but he has no issue with those who do. I also agree with you on the things that you choose to eat. If someone feels it is wrong to eat something and you don't, then they don't need to eat whatever it is.
The example Bro Bernard to justify a man having a shave face (like a woman) was Joseph going before an Egyptian pharaoh. In every other example Egypt is associated with sin and ‘the world’ but not in this case? This is the ONLY place in scripture where shaving your face is mentioned. David’s men had their beard shaved and he told them to go away for a time to not be shamed. The gymnastics done to justify the teachings and doctrines of MEN. If the ONE verse from Duet ch22 that UPC wants to proclaim as salvation for a man not to look like a woman and then try to justify shaving a man’s face is laughable. My eyes are opening and I cannot believe the hypocrisy of a religion I’ve grown up in my entire life.
While I believe that the UPCI is the most right among the denominations out there, the beard topic was always the sour spot that I thought they had. This is because someone I know that is close to me was going to church in a different state. At the time I was attending a UPCI church in a northern state where nobody cared if you had a beard. The pastor would shave just because if he didn’t, then he would be looked down upon when meeting with other pastors (I heard this second hand). The person close to me was attending a church a few hundred miles away, and he had a beard, but after...IDK, a year or so, many people tried to get the guy I know to shave. But he wouldn't do it, because he didn't see any problem with or without having a beard. The pastor started to give him lest respect, and wouldn't listen to him on serious issues. The final straw was when he was at a service, and the pastor put in his message that if you do not follow the holiness standards, then you're not saved, going to hell, and people shouldn't try to talk to you since you won't change. Looked at the guy when saying this, but avoided saying anything about a beards, which the guy believes that it is because there were some new visitors with beards. I'll stress this point out, I was not there, but I got this story from the person close to me who was affected. The guy changed churches, and I'm glad he stayed in a UPCI church. I moved close to this person, and currently we travel about an hour to a UPCI church that is fine with beards (pastors, musicians, etc), instead of a 30 minute or less trip to the other church. He tells me that most people from the other church that know this guy (most don't remember me) won't talk to him. While I think it's just paranoia, the guy tells me that at our current church, he saw someone from the other church and was trying to avoid him. After that day, he thinks the pastor started acting differently around him, or something like that. We really don't talk about it, so the exact details are still fuzzy to me. I really think that there is a problem in this spot of the UPCI, but otherwise, I stand with it. I don't like the way things turned out. Considering on going to that church closer to me on Sunday nights that I'm not at my own church. Not to start trouble, just to show up for the same reason as everyone there, to worship God. Beard or no beard. Where I come from, and all the places I've visited, nobody cares if you have a beard. It means nothing unless you're the Robertsons from Louisiana. I don't have convictions over beards, but I have convictions in other spots.
I think it’s fair to say it is a sour spot with many, many people. Very unfortunate we have to deal with this and often I think it’s more a power tripping issue than anything else.
@@martinsanchez-it1yg That would be wrong and more damaging to the church than what it would fix. Matters like this would make UPCI as a whole look worse.
@@martinsanchez-it1yg That is not a nice thing to even mention doing. My bible says not to touch God's anointed and to do His prophets no harm. David' arm bearer came to him and said "I killed saul for you" David told him who are you to touch God's anointed, and Saul was not right with God, but he was anointed at one time.
This “rule/standard”, is so freaking ridiculous. A man with facial hair can be just as Godly, if not “more” godly than a clean shaven man. Those in the apostolic/Pentecostal churches can be stuck up and holier than thou. My husband asked several men in the church to show him in the “word” where it says men cannot wear facial hair. Not a single one of them could. So, is it taught to have clean shaven faces? 🤔😳🙄🤦♀️
Would Dr Bernard say Leviticus 19:27 and 21:5 are cultural pronouncements, and that we have a choice one way or anther, or a direct commandment that leaves no room for choice?
During ww1 the need for gas mask was nessasary which did not work with beards also ww2,Korea,Vietnam develope our society with military principles dress codes respect cleanses and beards were part of that then like bro says in the late 50 ,60,70 was a very rebellious time
Even in 2023 here in the oilpatch of west TX. When working for any of the big oil companies you can't have a beard because of the chance of poisonus gas and the need for a gas mask.
Not to be mean or harsh, because these are some good insides, but why can’t pastors simply trust the Holy Ghost and their leaders, along with the word of God to make them who they ought to be according to one, Timothy, three and Titus, one, which are the standards for leadership in the New Testament? Why do you need extra stuff? That is not even biblical? Just saying.
The Facial hair thing was one of the goofy things that I hid from my family. Jesus Christ they understood, immersion water baptism they understood, speaking in tongues and worship they understood, modesty and clean living they understood, but the hair and beard thing was too odd. I must say that my late Pastor (very wise and kind) never brought such things up to visitors or new converts, though quite a few in the congregation loved to go on and on about their ''standards'' to any and all. I worked hard to keep my family away from such folks.
A man will always have a beard even after a clean shave a few hours later he'll get a 5 o'clock shadow there's no way around it God gave us beards some us choose to cut it off most of us like myself choose to grow it out and style it
I don't believe it's a Heaven or Hell matter...i don't have one, but if i did,, n my Pastor really would rather i don't have one if i was holding an office, i would keep shaved for respect sake, because it's that small of an issue,, but rebellion is a HUGE ISSUE. But you could probably find more men in the BIBLE with beards than without.. but with any issues of conversation, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE...DON'T BECOME BITTER,, it'll eat yr spiritual life to death. Having said that,, I don't believe it should be an issue because there's NO SCRIPTURE for it...( that i can find anyway) so it really can't be Preached,, as thus saith "THE LORD "....(.but this Pastor Bernard, is as wise as they come dealing in GODS WORD .(.in my opinion )..David Bernard,,, is a "GODLY MAN"
Personally I don’t believe there’s nothing wrong with having a beard because the Bible permits to have them. Also society has mocked facial hair for many years but now as the years go by people are now realizing there’s nothing wrong with facial hair which in my eyes is a good thing. God gave it to men for a reason and it’s not just Jesus Moses and all the other prophets who had them, I also believe Adam had a beard because we always see paintings of him clean-shaven but I’m sure that’s not what he looks like. As a matter of fact I’m sure he had a beard when he was first created. All I can say is for people who feel that they don’t like their beards and want to shave it off it’s OK because I don’t think it’s a sin and nowhere in the Bible says if you shave your going to hell so it’s not a salvation issue.
A few points, the hippie concept is long gone, it should not even be mentioned, the second is that it won't be a stumbling block if we stopped teaching man made traditions that have no biblical support, and my last point is that Joseph did not shave his beard, the Egyptians shaved it for him, the reason being that they didn't want him looking like a child of God, because ALL children of God at the time had beards, they wanted him looking like a child of Egypt, the world, sin. I love my Pastor, and I respect him, but when we start following the word of man over the word of God we are in trouble, that is how false doctrine started. There was a church, the Pastor stood up and said I am your Pastor, I am asking you to respect and obey me, please stop eating meat on Fridays, need I say more. (Robert)
Very good comment but brother jive is correct Joseph shaved himself I believe because culturally he wanted to be presented well and respectable. Love your comment
Since Joseph had a position with authority, and since the Egyptian culture , removed hair from head and face etc , it may have been a requirement for Joseph, or he may have simply followed the culture to fit in.
if the holy ghost fell on the apostles did they shave facial hair?does the bible say for you to enter the kingdom of God you have to shave facial hair?John 3:5 verily verily if a man is not born of water and spirit (speaking in tongues)he cannot enter the Kingdom of God💯
Shaving originates in pagan Egypt. Biblically with Gods people it was a shame to be shaven.. God created the human body if he wanted no facial hair he would've created man that way.. Its not a biblical issue, it's a cultural issue..therefore it's not an issue.
One of many reasons why I left this type of church.. God gave us the ability to grow a beard lol... So glad that I can serve at a church and be used by God despite my beard lol
Who cares if you have a beard or not the problem is is that people are not proclaiming that Jesus Christ is Lord in public people are not proclaiming that you must be born again in public and when someone starts obeying God and starts proclaiming that Jesus Christ is Lord in public everyone turns on them and they won't have nothing more to do with them and then you go out and eat at Denny's and the waitress has black fingernail polish on and a pentagram around her neck and you sit there and complain that she's not pouring the iced tea fast enough and everyone seems to forget what came over the pulpit and if you're sitting there at the table and you obey God and you start talking to the waitress about being born again they will never ever ever go out and eat with you again the UPC Church needs a new leader we need to drop the districts we need to drop the sections and we actually need to become United like we say that we are and have people start frequencing our churches again and have Minister start moving around our churches again and the movement to start moving again and it's a sleeping giant needs to wake up we need a leader that's on fire we need a new leader and we need to obey the teachings of Jesus Christ and that Jesus Christ needs to be our leader not a man not a district not a section not the pastor's son all of our churches the pastor's son is the pastor this needs to change we need to stop controlling everyone and controlling everything and controlling God and start walking that just shall walk by faith and we need to start obeying the teachings of Jesus Christ the time has come that we need to change or you can kiss America goodbye
You keep on dropping your standards the devil is going come like a flood why do think i ve been with the upci so long is because i kept my standards i have seen so many have back slid because they drop their Standards
