Denominationalism!

                              

I would like to raise a few issues with you and seek your opinion on one of my concerns; Denominationalism.

Even though we are all Christians, over time we become associated with one denomination or the other. Can we see beyond where we practice our faith to why and in whom we believe? Passion and conviction are essential qualities to have as a Christian. We must know what we believe, why we believe it and wholly hold onto those beliefs. Denominationalism has been defined as when people are more concerned about being faithful to denomination rather than the teaching of Christ. It  tends to focus more on the tradition and preferential values than the Scripture. This system engenders a spirit of adversarial rivalry rather than cooperation.

Charles Spurgeon, one of the greatest Baptist preachers who ever lived said:

"I look forward with pleasure to the day when there will not be a Baptist living!  I hope that the Baptist name will soon perish, but let Christ’s name last forever." - Spurgeon Memorial Library, Vol. I., p. 168

I am not against denominations, but would like us Christians to use this to our advantage. Instead of competing amongst ourselves, we need to begin to complement one another. Why should you ignore the challenges of another Christian simply because he/she doesn't belong to your denomination?

Why will you ever think that if someone doesn't belong to your denomination, their Christianity is questionable?

My aim is for us to begin to see ourselves as one body of Christ. No matter the denomination we belong. All that matters is that Christ is glorified.

There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all, in all, and living through all. [Eph 4:5-6 NLT]

Then, besides all this, I have the daily burden of my concern for all the churches. [2 Cor 11:28 NLT]

Let us like Paul, begin to see all Christians every where as one family and pray for ourselves as we await His return.