Jun 2, 2016
Episode 28: Do denominations fit into God’s plan?
The concept of a denomination is quite familiar to most of us, but
denominations as we know them have not always been with us. The
early church did not have any such concept. Do they fit into the
plan and purpose of God? Denominations are so prevalent in our time
that perhaps we have not even considered if they are what God wants
or not. What is a denomination? Why do we have them? Do they help
or hinder? We want to look at some of these questions in light of
God’s ultimate purpose.
• The external Issues (what we see)
o A special name (distinction)
o Oneness defined by a set of beliefs or doctrines
o A rallying around a special doctrine(s) that is seen as
critical
o A central authority (headquarters on earth)
o Often a building that can be seen by men
o The name of the pastor is often on the billboard
o Often a spirit of isolation even if none of these things are
seen
• The real issues (spiritual issues that are important to
God)
o Only Christ and Him crucified
o God is one (not divided into groups in a locality, Eph.
4:4,5)
o Maintain the unity of the Spirit while coming to a oneness
of faith (Eph. 4:3)
o The authority of each member and assembly is Christ (Col.
2:19, I Tim. 2:5)
o The church is the bride of Christ (hidden from the
world)
o Man should not be exalted (only Christ)
o To have the right attitude towards all Christians (holding
truth in love, I John 3:18)
• What should be our attitude (response)
o Seek God for a clear revelation of His Body which is the
church (Eph. 1:22,23)
o Let the Holy Spirit full our hearts with love (Romans
5:5)
o Ask God for wisdom on how to break down the walls of
separation
o When light comes obey and do not hold up the past
• Additional resources at http://www.ntchurchsource.com/
• Theme song “Will Your Anchor Hold” sung by J. Ashley
Milne
• Comments and questions welcome. Email David@AnchorOfTruth.com