The term Christianity is definitely not a single faith. In fact, many thousands of different churches operate under the broad definition of Christianity. Many formal churches consist of thousands of congregations and others cater for specific languages or regions. Some churches wield immense power. The fact is that many believers do not want to be members of a formal congregation and they prefer to attend a non denominational church.
I essence, most congregations are part of a specific faith, such as the Roman Catholic Church, for example. All the congregations of such a faith follow similar policies and they adhere to the same sacraments and doctrines. The latter is prescribed by the central leadership. Independent churches, like those in Denver CO report to no central governing body and they make their own decisions on all matters related to their faith.
There has been a noticeable move from formal denominations to independent congregations all over the world. Religious experts ascribe this move to the fact that people are growing tired of the inability of the formal churches to cater to the needs of their members. Former members say that the formal denominations do not take modern circumstances and lifestyles into consideration. They want to worship in less formal places.
Many others move to independent churches because they feel that the formal denominations are condemning them, judging them and even persecuting them. Single mothers, gays, those in relationships without being married are just some examples of people that would rather worship at places where they are not judged. They do not shun the authority of God, but they shun the attitude of formal denominations.
Theological experts have warned that Christians need to be very careful before becoming members of independent congregations. They say that many of these churches focus only on those issues that are pleasant and that promises people eternal life and success on earth. They warn that the entire Word of God must be represented in the ministering offered to the congregation, including issues that may be unpleasant but that are part of the teachings of the Bible nevertheless.
It is sadly also true that some independent congregations have cause much bitterness and even harm. In most such cases the entire congregation focus upon the teachings of an individual that is both a good speaker and charismatic. Such pastors are intent only upon enriching themselves and to build a personal base of power over others. No pastor should ever ask his congregation to donate all their worldly goods, for example.
Many Christians want to move to a place of worship where they will feel more welcome and comfortable. Because it is such a personal issue, it is probably better to investigate a few congregations before making any decisions. By attending services at several congregations it may be possible to gauge the focus and doctrine of the congregation. Talking to existing members can also be valuable.
One of the reasons why independent churches are growing so quickly is that there is an international movement towards increased spirituality. Christians want to be part of this movement but they want to do so within the context of their faith. They want to worship according to the Bible.
I essence, most congregations are part of a specific faith, such as the Roman Catholic Church, for example. All the congregations of such a faith follow similar policies and they adhere to the same sacraments and doctrines. The latter is prescribed by the central leadership. Independent churches, like those in Denver CO report to no central governing body and they make their own decisions on all matters related to their faith.
There has been a noticeable move from formal denominations to independent congregations all over the world. Religious experts ascribe this move to the fact that people are growing tired of the inability of the formal churches to cater to the needs of their members. Former members say that the formal denominations do not take modern circumstances and lifestyles into consideration. They want to worship in less formal places.
Many others move to independent churches because they feel that the formal denominations are condemning them, judging them and even persecuting them. Single mothers, gays, those in relationships without being married are just some examples of people that would rather worship at places where they are not judged. They do not shun the authority of God, but they shun the attitude of formal denominations.
Theological experts have warned that Christians need to be very careful before becoming members of independent congregations. They say that many of these churches focus only on those issues that are pleasant and that promises people eternal life and success on earth. They warn that the entire Word of God must be represented in the ministering offered to the congregation, including issues that may be unpleasant but that are part of the teachings of the Bible nevertheless.
It is sadly also true that some independent congregations have cause much bitterness and even harm. In most such cases the entire congregation focus upon the teachings of an individual that is both a good speaker and charismatic. Such pastors are intent only upon enriching themselves and to build a personal base of power over others. No pastor should ever ask his congregation to donate all their worldly goods, for example.
Many Christians want to move to a place of worship where they will feel more welcome and comfortable. Because it is such a personal issue, it is probably better to investigate a few congregations before making any decisions. By attending services at several congregations it may be possible to gauge the focus and doctrine of the congregation. Talking to existing members can also be valuable.
One of the reasons why independent churches are growing so quickly is that there is an international movement towards increased spirituality. Christians want to be part of this movement but they want to do so within the context of their faith. They want to worship according to the Bible.
About the Author:
Pay a visit to our non denominational church this Sunday and join our friendly community in Denver. Check out the Sunday worship times here at http://www.plattparkchurch.org.
This article collected, selected and written by: Author Van Hoc
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