Ep. 296 - Why Are There So Many Christian Denominations?
Critics of Christianity often point to its many denominations to disprove it, wondering how Christianity can be true if there is division within it; however, these divisions arise from differences in secondary issues, not core beliefs. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar dive into how denominations represent different facets of the same faith, unified under Jesus Christ. Some groups are labeled as denominations but fall outside orthodoxy, or true teaching, but this is an exception.
Ray believes denominations exist because no two people agree on everything. Yet the church's foundation is the Lord, who looks at the believer's heart. A genuine Christian is known by their separation from sin and their focus on Christ. The church isn’t a building but the people Jesus ransomed with His blood are. Our gatherings should be marked by reverence. The church is a body of believers who regularly gather, take communion, and proclaim the gospel. It’s not an amorphous institution but a community united in Christ's mission.
While Christians may belong to different denominations, they are united by their shared faith. We are all brothers and sisters in Christ. The beauty of the church is its universality. In Jesus' time, the idea of the gospel spreading to Gentiles was radical, and throughout history, denominations formed under God's sovereignty. Oscar gives a brief summary of church history from the time of Jesus’ resurrection to present day. Understanding church history helps us respect why different denominations arose and the reasons for divisions.
Christians may disagree on topics like baptism, church government, or spiritual gifts, but they are united in the mission to proclaim the gospel. Essential doctrines—such as the virgin birth, the Trinity, salvation by grace through faith, and Jesus' death and resurrection—define Christianity and distinguish true believers. Secondary issues, such as the inerrancy of Scripture or justification by faith, don’t determine salvation. Non-essential matters, like worship style or eschatology, offer room for disagreement without breaking unity.
When searching for a church, it's essential to start with their statement of faith. You may not agree on everything, but a thorough statement reveals their beliefs. Prioritize a church that emphasizes evangelism and examine the leadership structure and ensure there’s accountability. A local and available church fosters community, even when members disagree on secondary issues. Ultimately, we should receive one another under Christ’s and remain united in our shared faith.
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Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.
Ray Comfort
Emeal (“E.Z.”) Zwayne
Mark Spence
Oscar Navarro
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