[CS-FSLUG] A couple of thoughts on denominations

[Christopher Rose]

Recently the topic was opened about denominations based, in part, upon my postings which are heavily influenced by my being in the Lutheran church. Does this mean that I believe the Lutheran church can make the claim of being the "true" church? NO! I do not believe that any church can make that claim. Any church that claims itself to be the one and only true Christian church is guilty of heresy.

Now then, I do not see denominations as being good or bad. Rather, denominations are often based upon a particular understanding scripture. The Lutheran church, for instance, heavily makes the statement of "Word Alone" (I knowingly make this statement with an understanding of certain dialogues within the ELCA that violate this principle). This statement is based upon the understanding that our source of salvation comes from the very mouth or "word" of God. That word is likewise understood as being Christ, the "word" made flesh.

Now, that is just a simple understanding of what is believed by the Lutheran church, there is so much more. However, for the sake of making my point, I will state while the Lutheran church is not the only "true" church. Rather, here is the one "true" christian church: "Those who worship the Father in spirit and truth". There is no denominational (or non-denominational) church that can, in itself, make the claim of being the "true" church.

It is true, however, that each denomination serves a purpose in the wider view of the Christian church. I like to believe that each church has done well in that they try to teach what is written in the scriptures and that through the scriptures, God's Holy Spirit draws people unto Christ. To some extent, I also like to think that denominations serve as an avenue by which believers can come together to share in fellowship and communion. Example, perhaps a more traditional, even liturgical, service is what is the believer's heart and a Lutheran or Methodist church might work. Likewise, a believer may desire a more contemporary style of worship, in which a Baptist/Pentecostal or non-denominational (which I would contend as being a denomination in itself) church may fit the bill. Indeed, there are times when a denomination is created because of a church split that is based upon a certain style of worship versus another style.

Ultimately, it is not about being in this denomination or non-denominational church. It is ultimately about whether or not we trust in Christ Jesus as our saviour and whether or not we truly repent of our sins.

Pax,

Christopher
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