Pastor Tony Jeffrey
Dr. Jim Denison, CVO of the Denison Forum addresses this important question in his book, Biblical Insight to Tough Questions. If Jesus prayed that the church “may all be one,” John 17, why are there an estimated 35,496 Christian denominations?
Christians the world over have differences of opinion about significant issues. Else, we wouldn’t have thousands of denominations. However, we are all Christians for one sole reason: We believe that Jesus is the Son of God, that he died for our sins and rose from the dead, and that he’s coming again, and that we exist to worship him. This is the Gospel.
Let’s all remember this essential fact: Jesus unifies the church. With that thought, let’s consider the main way denominations differ.
The Primary Difference
While a host of issues differentiate denominations, one basic distinction exists: the role of Scripture. Whether a church believes that the Bible is their primary authority or just one of their authorities separates many denominations. For instance, Catholic denominations would say that God gave the Bible through the church. Consequently, the church is the means by which the Bible is to be interpreted. Thus, the teachings that have flowed from the church’s creeds, councils, Popes, and historical traditions are the prism through which believers interpret the Bible.
Conversely, Protestant denominations believe in Sola Scriptura, “only Scripture,” meaning that the Bible alone is preeminently authoritative. It is the foundation of the Protestant movement. Such believers don’t interpret Scripture through tradition as much as they interpret tradition through Scripture. For those looking to attend a church, begin with this question: What is the church’s emphasis on biblical authority?
In other words:
1. How much biblical teaching takes place in the service?
2. How much will I hear the expositions of Scripture?
3. Am I hearing someone who’s actually teaching what the text says more than what traditions might say?
4. Am I being led to a place where I can study Scripture for itself and where I can encounter God in his word?
The unity of Christianity is critical to the witness of Christianity. Why would the outside world want to be a part of a group that fights among itself? But it seldom comes easily.
Next month, we will be discussing: How do I know what denomination is right for me?
In the meantime, if you are looking for a very friendly church that believes the Bible is God’s infallible, authoritative, and inspired word, is committed to teaching the Bible verse by verse, loves to worship God and fellowship together, and prays and cares deeply for one another, we would love to have you visit. We meet every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. in the Clubhouse.