I am a fan of cooperative efforts, even most denominations. The great denominations pool relationships, resources, and expect radical lifestyles so that the gospel is proclaimed around the world. But denominations are dangerous when…
· infighting becomes so outrageous that outsiders question the validity of Jesus and His bride.
· local churches point to what their denomination is doing while ignoring what they as a local church body should be doing.
· bishops, priests and/or pastors meet and vote to declare actions and activities that God points out in the Bible to be sinful as sinful no more.
· churches that have chosen to remain separated from a denomination are declared rebellious or insignificant by denominational and church leaders that are part of a denomination.
· “denominational distinctives” are elevated above biblical truth and in so doing “heavy burdens” (Matthew 23) are placed on followers of Christ.
· a few people covertly conclude what doctrine is embraced, what initiatives are given the most attention, and who will be placed in roles of authority.
· denominational leaders realize that the denomination they lead has veered far from God’s intentions and they are unwilling to call those under their umbrella of responsibility to fasting, prayer, and repentance.
So that there is no confusion concerning my personal journey with denominationalism… I have been part of a particular denomination my entire life. I came to know Christ personally because of a college ministry funded by a denomination. I was mentored by people whose salary was paid for by my denomination. Most of my adult life I have worked in or aided my denomination and other denominations seeking understanding of small group ministry. I have seen the gospel impact a unified denomination can have on the world. I believe deeply in the synergy of healthy, Christ-centered, biblically-driven denominations led by humble Christ-followers more intent on sharing the gospel than protecting their
denomination’s brand.