More and more denominations mean less and less to people. There was a time when people fiercely defended their “brand” of Christianity—sometimes to the point of being unchristian. They were often more committed to their church than to Christ.
Today most people realize that all denominations are man made—even those who say they aren’t. And all of them have strengths and weaknesses. This is not to say denominations are unimportant. But they aren’t all-important. It is commitment to Christ that is essential.
There is good in all denominations—but not necessarily equal good. Denominations are like fast food restaurants. You can go in a McDonald’s anywhere in the world and be reasonably sure of what will be served. Likewise, you can go in a Baptist, Episcopal, or Methodist church anywhere and know what to expect.
There are Christians in every church that proclaims Christ. There is just one way to God—through Christ. There is just one way to Christ—through faith. But there are many ways to faith. You can come to faith in any church or in no church. Once you come to faith you will have a hunger and thirst after righteousness. You should then find a good Bible-believing church and become a part of it.
To me the church is in part like a cafeteria. I go to a restaurant to eat. If the food, service, or atmosphere does not satisfy my needs, I’d have no hesitancy about changing. My commitment is not to a chain name but to food itself.
I go to church for spiritual food. “Man does not live by bread alone.” If my spiritual needs aren’t being met in one church, I’d find another. It is Christ, not the denomination, that counts.
I happen to be what I am because I like the spiritual food served. Look at our menu:
- Salvation: We believe that Jesus is both Lord and Savior. He is the one we worship, obey, and serve.
- Security: We believe that salvation is a gift from God. We do not earn it by being good, nor do we lose it by being bad.
- Scripture: We believe that the Bible is the Word of God. We are to believe, study, and obey it to the best of our ability.
- Symbols: We believe that baptism is for believers and we believe in immersion to symbolize our faith.
- Service: We believe that churches should be completely independent. We voluntarily cooperate with others for the purpose of missions, education, benevolence, and more effective service.
- Separation: We believe that the church and state should be separate to guarantee religious freedom.
You’ve got to be a part of something so find a good Bible-believing church and attend it!