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Denominations
| Most people curious
about Christianity will approach it through a denomination. This is
because they support numerous brick and mortar churches and seminaries
as well as pass along their traditions and teaching to the children of
their members such that most Christians are raised in one denomination
or tradition or another.
Perhaps the biggest problem with a denomination is that they are
defined by a particular doctrinal package which is usually offered as
the complete and final version of Christianity. As a result, anything
different is wrong and a threat. Also questioning is discouraged so
growth and maturity are often inhibited. The purpose of a church is
supposed to be helping each member grow into Christ-likeness (Ephesians
chapter 4). Instead a weekly sermon is given that echoes the lectures
the pastor heard when he was in seminary.
Once a denomination is established, it is almost impossible to make any
changes. In the rare situations where a pastor sees a better truth, his
congregation will usually act to prevent him from following it. In a
way, both pastor and congregation become prisoners of their system.
Another limiting characteristic is the division between pastor and
congregation. Having a pastor is often seen as a way to avoid having to
do much about faith because the pastor is the one responsible.
Seeing one’s group as on the inside track or having the “right”
doctrine can contribute to the self-righteousness of the Pharisees. It
also can be seen with the Gnostics and in the ancient Mystery
religions. Feelings of affinity that one can have for a particular
sports team or school is also a way people can feel that they are
special. Rituals and sacraments can also contribute to feelings of
unique favor.
Paul calls denominational affiliation immaturity (1Cor 3:1-4). The
person who feels at ease accepting what someone has told them about
Christ may have more faith in who told them than in Christ. This may
even cause people to misplace their faith. Trusting in a pastor or a
denomination may cause one to fall short of actual trust in Jesus.
Some people advance in their faith to the point where they may have
grown uncomfortable with the doctrine of their denomination. These
often try other denominations and may even try so-called
non-denominational or bible churches. There are some who find that
there is no church that has a consistent practice that is acceptable.
These are often berated for failing to observe Hebrews 10:25 which may
speak more to the necessity of the faithful remnant of Israel to
survive the tribulation. If Christians seek to draw nearer their Savior
and denominations tend to draw nearer the world, seeking fellowship
outside churches and instruction from some from over the the Internet
may be the only viable options left.
For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but
after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having
itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth,
and shall be turned unto fables. - 2 Timothy 4:3-4 |
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