One God manifested as Father, Son, and Spirit; not three distinct persons
Branhamism rejects the Nicene doctrine of the Trinity, instead teaching Oneness theology rooted in the United Pentecostal Church tradition. According to this view, there is only one God—Jesus Christ—whose fullness is expressed in three manifestations or titles: Father (creator), Son (redeemer), and Holy Ghost (sanctifier). These are not three distinct persons but rather three functional roles of one absolute being.
William Branham taught that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are not co-equal persons but rather aspects of one God's nature and work. This position directly contradicts Nicene Christendom and aligns with Oneness Pentecostalism and early Modalism. Believers in the Message Movement maintain this Oneness position while adding Branham's specific eschatological and prophetic claims.
Key Distinctions
- Persons ontology:
- one absolute God manifested as Father (creator), Son (redeemer), and Holy Ghost (sanctifier) — not three distinct persons
- Spirit procession:
- not applicable — Holy Spirit is not a distinct person but God's presence
- Creed stance:
- Nicene Trinity rejected; Oneness/Jesus-only doctrine; UPCI-adjacent but with Branham additions
Scripture References
Sources
- William Branham, Church Age Book
- William Branham, An Exposition of the Seven Church Ages
- Voice of God Recordings publications