Christianity is most certainly not a single religion. Many different churches are described as part of the Christian faith but there are in fact vast differences between some of the churches. There are literally thousands of churches, each with a few or many congregations. Some are distrusted all over the world and some are very powerful organizations indeed. However, many people are not members of formal churches but rather opt for 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.
Independent congregations have shown tremendous growth in all areas where the Christian faith is practiced. Many people say that they no longer wish to be part of the formal structures of official religion. They feel that the traditional churches do not cater for the needs of modern man. Independent congregations are typically less formal and there is often room for debate regarding the interpretation of the Bible.
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.
Looking for a congregation to join can be difficult and time consuming. It may be wise to attend services at a variety of congregations. It is also advisable to ask the pastor or other leaders of the congregation to explain their policies and focus. It may even be beneficial to chat to some of the existing members and to ask about their experiences.
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.
Independent congregations have shown tremendous growth in all areas where the Christian faith is practiced. Many people say that they no longer wish to be part of the formal structures of official religion. They feel that the traditional churches do not cater for the needs of modern man. Independent congregations are typically less formal and there is often room for debate regarding the interpretation of the Bible.
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.
Looking for a congregation to join can be difficult and time consuming. It may be wise to attend services at a variety of congregations. It is also advisable to ask the pastor or other leaders of the congregation to explain their policies and focus. It may even be beneficial to chat to some of the existing members and to ask about their experiences.
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.
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You can visit www.plattparkchurch.org for more helpful information about Why So Many People Move To A Non Denominational Church.
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