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.
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 other people feel that the formal denominations are too judgmental in their attitude to some of their members. In some churches divorce, for example, is seen as a hideous sin. In many churches gays are condemned as decadent sinners that must repent and change their ways. These types of people feel more comfortable in an environment where they do not feel persecuted. People want to feel loved and accepted as part of the congregation.
Religious experts say that Christians should beware of independent congregations that do not have a formal background of research and study. They say that many of these churches offer their congregations nothing but a shallow message of love, eternal live and peace on earth while the Bible addresses many other issues that may not be palatable but that is nevertheless part of the Christian faith.
It is also an unfortunate fact that some congregations are founded simply to serve as a power base for the pastor. History has shown that sects can be dangerous and that people easily fall into the trap where they believe that the teachings of the pastor must be correct. Christians are well advised to avoid churches that preach practices and doctrines that utterly contradict everything they have ever believed.
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.
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 other people feel that the formal denominations are too judgmental in their attitude to some of their members. In some churches divorce, for example, is seen as a hideous sin. In many churches gays are condemned as decadent sinners that must repent and change their ways. These types of people feel more comfortable in an environment where they do not feel persecuted. People want to feel loved and accepted as part of the congregation.
Religious experts say that Christians should beware of independent congregations that do not have a formal background of research and study. They say that many of these churches offer their congregations nothing but a shallow message of love, eternal live and peace on earth while the Bible addresses many other issues that may not be palatable but that is nevertheless part of the Christian faith.
It is also an unfortunate fact that some congregations are founded simply to serve as a power base for the pastor. History has shown that sects can be dangerous and that people easily fall into the trap where they believe that the teachings of the pastor must be correct. Christians are well advised to avoid churches that preach practices and doctrines that utterly contradict everything they have ever believed.
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.
{ 0 commentaires... read them below or add one }
Enregistrer un commentaire