There are hundreds of denominations that differ in name, organization, doctrine, worship, and plan of salvation but their base is “Christianity.” Is this division or unity? Is this based on God’s word? Ephesians 3:10,11 says that the church is part of God's eternal wisdom, so do you think denominationalism fits somewhere into His concept?
"Church" is used two ways; "universal and local”. The "universal church” refers to all who have been redeemed by Jesus' blood, have been forgiven of their sins, and have been born into His spiritual family. Matthew 16:18 - Jesus promised to build His church. Ephesians 5:23,25 - Jesus is Head of the church, and He is Savior of His body. Acts 2:47 - The Lord added to the church those who were saved.
The "local church(s) refers to a congregation of Christians who have united themselves to work and worship together. Acts 8:1 – Jerusalem Church, 1 Corinthians 1:2 - Corinth Church, 1 Thessalonians 2:14 – Judea Church, etc.
There were different congregations (Romans 16:16) however, they had the same pattern of organization; doctrine, worship, and salvation plan. In Romans 16:17-18, Paul alerts the Christians that differences over doctrinal is dangerous, matter of factual too dangerous to overlook and tells them to guard against those who bring divisions into the Church to the point of avoiding them. Paul wanted them to be wise in spiritual things but unlearned in evil things. Can this be “The evils of division when we say we’re representing the same God?”
Galatians 1:6-9 (KJV)
6 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. 9 As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.
Is denominationalism authorized in the gospel? Is denominationalism a man-made instrument used to set himself apart? Apart from what though? Traditionally, we are what our parents or grandmomma ‘em are/were but since I am “out the box on a lot of traditional man-made thoughts” my experiences and convictions steer me a different direction, so is this division and denominationalism? No, I think it makes me a universal believer (non denominational) who can find unity with any other believer of similar mindset and one without similarity, we can agree to disagree in love and move on. You see, I have found the love of God’s Word, the sincerity of its practice, the devotion to it, the love for God and others and… man-made tradition/laws in every denomination that I have encountered. Does this make us all going to heaven but traveling on different morning trains; one for each denomination and one for universal? I don’t say this to be cruel… I say this because of its TRUTH. Please enlighten me?
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2 comments:
This was a very interesting blog!!!
DENOMINATION is a touchy subject to those in the “traditional” church. However, in this day and age I believe many are searching for that “Out of the box” kind of faith. Some may suggest, “Denomination” is a categorized religion. It sort of reminds me of TCBY’s 31 flavors of ice cream. If I don’t like one FLAVOR I can easily try another. Sometimes I feel this broad selection can hinder our progress as believers…and even keep us inside of “the box.” An example of this is my experiences during my first year in the Navy. I remember visiting a variety of churches some with the clap stomp flavor, others with the traditional flavor, another with the Hip Hop flavor and none of them had what I was looking for so eventually I just stopped looking. My lack of spiritual nourishment left me in a sickly spiritual state. When I finally found what I was looking for I realized it was not the flavor/Denomination I needed…it was the personal relationship.
I am extremely grateful to God that my soul was not lost during that time of searching…however, there are many who are in the same boat I was in…and are lost or create children who are also lost.
I guess my question is…HOW ARE WE GOING TO APPROACH THIS GENERATION???? This is a reality television, cell phone having, my-space updating, MP3/IPOD playing generation. In other words, the flavors of yesterday…are not as tasty today.
In my opinion, whatever the denomination…WE NEED TO COME OUT OF THE BOX!
Now can I get an Amen???
AMEN!!!!!!!!!!!! I wonder why it is a touchy subject. Does being grounded in your denomination mean that you are afraid to talk about the differences/likenesses? I don't believe it should.
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