Why Are There So Many Different Denominations?
Something that can confuse a lot of non-believers and new believers (and certainly some seasoned Christians!) is the proliferation of Christian denominations. Why are there so many? Are they really all that different? Is one (or several) right, and others wrong? What's the difference between a denomination, a sect, and a cult? How should I go about choosing which Church denomination to attend? All these are excellent questions, and we shall discuss them in general, to get the thinking started.
Definitions - A proper understanding of the definitions take us a long way toward understanding how to analyze and choose in which denomination to participate. (Of course, these definitions are from a Christian perspective, and would surely be subject to debate from members of other 'religions'. I am attempting to speak from the traditional Christian Orthodoxy and tradition):
Denominations - An established derivative of the Christian Church. Sharing the primary (Orthodox) Christian traditions and beliefs, but differing in 'secondary' (not critical) beliefs.
Sect - 1) Same as Denomination. 2) A subset of a denomination (for example, the Southern Baptists can be considered a sect of the Baptist denomination.)
Cult - A 'religion' outside of the traditions of Christian Orthodoxy and traditions.
Orthodox - Literally translated as 'right belief'. In Christian tradition, the beliefs that are primary and non-negotiable are as follows: The deity of Christ (as evidenced by the virgin birth, miracles and the resurrection), the Trinity (one God in three persons - the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit), the fallen nature of man, the inerrancy of the Bible, the resurrection of Christ, and the salvation of mankind by faith through Grace. A belief system that does not agree with these 'orthodox' beliefs find themselves outside of the traditions of the faith and the doctrines prescribed by the Bible.
'Religion' - 1) Substantive definition - The system of beliefs by which a person adheres to doctrine and plans for living, and/or salvation. Examples: Christianity, Islam, Judaism, etc. 2) Function definition - That which orients, motivates, and structures the central zone of life. Our fundamental beliefs and values. Examples: the above, Marxism, Secular Humanism, Hedonism, etc. (adapted from Stackhouse; Humble Apologetics)
How Do I Choose A Religion?
In our current 'consumer' culture, one would expect to 'try them out' and see which one 'fits' best. But this is an impossible task, given the huge amount of 'choices' out there. So here lies the purpose of this website - to present a summary of the Christian faith, and it's warrant for belief. This most important of thoughtful considerations (indeed - it will dictate how we live our life, and certainly how we might live in our 'afterlife') is described in detail throughout this site and in the various references, so please spend some good quality time thinking and studying, as well as praying for guidance and listening to the Holy Spirit speak within you. A comparison of the major non-Christian 'religions' vs. Christian Orthodoxy is detailed elsewhere.
Why Are There So Many Different Denominations?
The diversity of denominations may seem like a curse to some, but a blessing to others (is your glass half-empty, or half-full?) Instead of being seen as 'divisive' and assuming that the denomination conforms to the 'non-negotiables' indicated above, then the differences are more ascribed to secondary and tertiary differences. A secondary difference may be items such as a preferred form of church government (Bishops, for example), or methods of baptism (sprinkle vs. submersion). These types of differences usually mark individual interpretations, and generally a church body is in agreement with them in order to be cohesive. Tertiary differences are those differences which local members may even debate amongst themselves, such as the timing of the rapture, etc.
These differences, while they may seem divisive at first glance, actually help strengthen the Body of Christ, as they allow and display the freedoms of expression and interpretation that foster growth and personal attention. The alternative would be a form of legalism, in which every person would be required to conform. Again, this freedom is clearly made possible assuming conformance to the 'non-negotiables', which are the core beliefs that make the Church an orthodox 'Christian Church'.
How Do I Choose A Denomination? One must of course ensure that the Church you are considering does ascribe to the 'non-negotiables'. Once you are confident that the Statement of Faith is appropriate, you are free to pursue the worship of God as you choose. Many are most comfortable with what they were 'raised' on as children, and many look for a 'change'. We should, I believe, try to not 'shop' for the most comfortable, but instead find a tradition and method which enables your desired worship, and a congregation in which you may exercise your talents and gifts. The summary below may assist you in your consideration.
A Summary Of The Major American Christian Denominations
COMING SOON
Summary The proliferation of denominations is a good thing. As long as we are all 'Christian' - that is, ascribing to the basic orthodox Christian beliefs - we are free to worship God in any means we feel comfortable.
Bibliography
Stackhouse, John G.; Humble Apologetics; Oxford University Press; 2002; Pg 100
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