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Explore the extensive history of denominationalism and its contrast to the concept of the Lord's church. Learn about denominations, cults, and the distinctive characteristics of the Lord's church as outlined in the Scriptures.
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Denominationalism A broad history of denominationalism, compared to the Lord’s church.
What is a denomination? Denomination:“the act of naming or designating a person or thing” (dictionary.com) Denomination:“A large group of religious congregations united under a common faith and name and organized under a single administrative and legal hierarchy”(American Heritage Dictionary) Nondenominational:“Not restricted to or associated with a religious denomination”(American Heritage Dictionary)
Why are some considered cults? Cult:“A religion or religious sect generally considered to be extremist or false, with its followers often living in an unconventional manner under the guidance of an authoritarian, charismatic leader” (American Heritage Dictionary) Examples Jehovah’s Witness Seventh-day Adventist Mormon Christian Scientists Inter. Church of Christ FLDS Church
Broad History: Denominationalism • Pentecost:church began, not denom. • Middle 1st century:Corinth, denom. • Paul foretold apostasy:Ephesus • Catholic:Roman / Orthodox • Reformation:reform Catholicism • Adventist Movement:end of world • Pentecostal Movement:miracles • Restoration:denominations back to 1stcentury church • Community Church Movement:ecumenical, “Postmodern Christianity”
Three Components of a Denomination Name:wear man-made names • founder: Lutheran, Wesleyan • doctrine: Baptist, Methodist Organization:multiple congregation united under single administrative head Doctrine:man-made religious documents • creeds, articles of faith • confession of faith • catechism
Lord’s Church Not a Denomination Name:wear authorized name, Scripture • 1 Cor. 1:10-13; 3:3-4denominationalism forbidden
Lord’s Church Not a Denomination Some Names Identifying The Church Name:wear authorized name, Scripture • 1 Cor. 1:10-13; 3:3-4denominationalism forbidden • My (Christ’s) church (Matt. 16:18) • church of the Lord, God (Acts 20:28; 1 Cor. 1:2) • church of Christ (Rom. 16:16) • the body, the church (Col. 1:18; Eph. 1:22-23) • household (house) of God (Eph. 2:19; 1 Tim. 3:15) • church of the firstborn (Heb. 12:23) • God’s field, God’s building (1 Cor. 3:9) • the flock (1 Pet. 5:3; Acts 20:28)
Lord’s Church Not a Denomination Name:wear authorized name, Scripture Organization:autonomous • Eph. 1:22-23 Jesus, head • 1 Pet. 5:1, 4 elders, Jesus Chief Shepherd
Lord’s Church Not a Denomination Name:wear authorized name, Scripture Organization:autonomous Doctrine:obey Jesus • 2 Jn. 1:9 abide teaching Christ • 1 Tim. 6:3-4 not advocate different doctrine
Denominationalism A broad history of denominationalism, compared to the Lord’s church.