Why I Am Not Church of Christ

Twenty-four years ago a broken, lonely, confused girl stumbled into a church, a Church of Christ. For two years she came to their church meetings, prayed with them, studied with them and sat at the feet of learned men, and some not so learned.

Eventually her heart was convicted and she gave her life to Jesus. She had her sins washed away and was baptized for the remission of her sins, in a Church of Christ.

Today I make the choice to pick up that cross and follow Jesus every day. But I also make another choice, the choice to not designate myself as “Church of Christ.”

This is why:

Church is a movement

not a building with a sign on it. Throughout the book of Acts the movement was so radical, so identifiable and so counter cultural that it was simply called, The Way. (Acts 9:2, 18:26; 19:9,23; 22:4; 24:14, 22)

Proper Names were not intended

I know that Rom. 16:16 says, may the churches of Christ salute you. But in the context, he is not giving them a title, proper name or designating a type of denomination.

Jesus wasn’t Church of Christ

Jesus did tell Peter, on this “rock I will build my church” (Mt. 16:18), but he never named it that. In the Book of Revelation Jesus designates the churches by city and by their fruit.

the church that had forsaken its first love (2:4).
the church that would suffer persecution (2:10).
the church that needed to repent (2:16).
the church that had a false prophetess (2:20).
the church that had fallen asleep (3:2).
the church that had endured patiently (3:10).
the church that was lukewarm (3:16).

Jesus gave us an ID tag

What you advertise in the yellow pages doesn’t put you in the Lamb’s Book of Life. However, our fruit will and it will advertise far and wide (Col. 1:4-6).

You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act (Mt. 7:16).

Names divide

“Some of you are saying, ‘I am a follower of Paul.’ Others are saying, ‘I follow Apollos,’ or “I follow Peter,” or ‘I follow only Christ.’Has Christ been divided into factions?” (1 Cor. 1:12-13).

A modern rendering of that verse could be, “Some of you are saying, “I am Baptist.” While others say, “I am Church of Christ” or “I am non-denominational.” Has Christ been divided into different denominations?

Jesus said our testimony will be in our unity. What message is sent when we aren’t unified?

“May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me” (Jn. 17:23).

I am simply a Christian.

I am member of the called out of Jesus. I am a member of the blood bought household of God. I am a member of the church, the body of Christ. I am simply, a Christian.

You will know how people must conduct themselves in the household of God. This is the church of the living God, which is the pillar and foundation of the truth.

1 Tim. 3:15

Jul 14, 2014Serena

Tweet7

Share2K

Pin1

2K Shares

Comments: 56

Sandi Rog
8 years ago
When did the “church of Christ” become a “denomination” anyway? I see a lot of Christians lately referring to it as such, and it just baffles me. I didn’t grow up in the church. I did, however, grow up in the denominational world. And when I finally became a Christian, I didn’t join a different “denomination.” I joined God’s Kingdom, His family, and this is where the TRUTH was being taught. The truth of how to be saved. The truth of about the church. The truth of how to worship in holiness. I just ate it up. I was like a sponge because I’d been led by vague doctrine and lies my entire life. I savored the truth and longed for it. I was desperate for it. I can remember asking God, “How can there be so many denominations and only ONE YOU?” I was surrounded by so many “opinions” about God and their beliefs that I was totally confused. I begged God to teach me His “opinion,” His way, but I didn’t know how to find it. The Bible was over my head, or so I thought. When I found the church, I found the truth, and they taught me how to study His word. Finally! I don’t know who is saying that the churches of Christ are a denomination or why they are saying that, but for those who are, it just tells me they don’t understand truth, and they’re in a “Church of Christ” to practice “religion.”

In the times today it’s a matter of convenience that we wear the name “church of Christ.” That way we know when we arrive at a certain building what we’re going to be taught. But even that is becoming more vague and we have to approach each new building with trepidation because so many congregations are moving away from the truth and giving in to false teachings. I’m honored and grateful to be a member of the church of Christ, the Way, the body of Christ, etc. This is not a denomination, by any means. Denomination means “part of the whole.” And God’s church is not a fraction. It IS the whole.

Thank you for your thoughtful post, Serena.

Love,

Sandi
Reply Cancel
- Cameron
  8 years ago
  “In the times today it’s a matter of convenience that we wear the name ‘church of Christ.’ That way we know when we arrive at a certain building what we’re going to be taught”
  
  Definition of denomination: A denomination is an identifiable religious body under a common name, structure, and doctrine.
  Reply Cancel
  - Sandi Rog
    8 years ago
    This would also define the church and it’s teaching, even if it is completely founded in scripture (which is what the churches of Christ strive to do, btw). So, this definition makes no sense. If you look at the literal meaning of “denomination,” it means “part of the whole.” Think “math.” Part of a whole is a “fraction.” We have a numerator and a “denominator.”
    Reply Cancel
  - Serena
    8 years ago
    “A denomination is a church organization that exercises some sort of authority over the local churches that comprise it.” While most churches of Christ claim autonomy, some simply do not practice it. Because the group I meet with doesn’t look like the rest we have been condemned by some. One preacher made it his goal to “expose our darkness” because our dress is casual and women make prayer requests.
    Reply Cancel
    - George
      8 years ago
      Church of Christ came to existence as a denomination in the early 19th century, out of the Restauration movement. The founders reformed the Church to return to the Apostolic Church started by Jesus. They believed that Christianity should not be divided, because Christ intended the creation of ONE Church. So they started a NEW ONE Church.
      
      However, I think we are conceptually moving away from the sense of religious “denomination”. The “denomination” is not about the leadership style, line of authority or autonomous, it is simply an identifier. Once we stand out as a Church, with an identifiable doctrine, culture, traditions (or lack thereof), a set of beliefs or behaviors, or a name…. we are a denomination in the common sense of the word.
      Reply Cancel
      - Sandi Rog
        8 years ago
        George, I’m afraid this isn’t a true statement. The church of Christ is not a denomination. The Word says that nothing would prevail against His church, His kingdom. The church has existed since Biblical times in Acts 2. That’s when it began, and there have been believers practicing the truth since then and before America was born. It just so happens, when God brought His kingdom over to America, it was called the church of Christ because that’s what it’s called in scriptures. That does not make it a denomination. Otherwise those churches of Christ mentioned in Romans 16:16 were also a “denomination.” Ephesians says there is one body, one church, one Lord, and one baptism. That’s the one church we Christians belong to, and because it can’t be conquered we know it didn’t suddenly “start” in the 1800s here in the US.
        Reply Cancel
      - Marion Hunt
        8 years ago
        Sandi, the Church of Christ became a denomination when there became a standard as to what it was. Just like Baptist, or Lutheran, or Presbyterian. I understand that members will staunchly defend the fact that they are not in a denomination, but they are. Just because you claim to be autonomous, does not make you denomination free. Case in point, autonomous Baptist churches that are not in a Baptist Association. They are still Baptist, even though they only report to Christ. It is the same thing with Church of Christ, it is the name of the movement, and that is what a denomination is.
        Reply Cancel
- Cathy
  8 years ago
  Churches of Christ today are denominational in so many ways, actions, believes, and practices. Even among the different churches of Christ, truth may be interpreted differently, so the C of C’s are not 100% correct in their interpretation of what is truth in all aspects of our spiritual lives. This blog post is reflective of the sentiment of many who have been negatively affected (hurt) by those members who say “You have to belong to the C of C to go to Heaven”. This is a wrong statement. A person must be sincerely seeking God, not using Him as a genie in a bottle, must seek Him with all their heart, soul, mind and strength, and in doing so, they will be led and taught by the Holy Spirit to learn and to walk in His ways.
  Reply Cancel
  - Tony Williams
    8 years ago
    Denomination:
    
    Noun
    “A recognized autonomous branch of the Christian church.”
    “The Face Value of a bank note, coin or postage stamp”
    
    That is google’s definition. It seems to fit. Ask yourself “What does the church of Christ believe about the essentiality of baptism?” If your answer is “True churches of Christ believe baptism is essential for salvation.” you have just admitted that the church is a denomination.
    Reply Cancel
    - Sandi Rog
      8 years ago
      This is what the church believes about baptism:
      
      Acts 2:38 Peter said to them, “Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
      
      Acts 22:16 And now, why do you delay? Get up and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on His name.
      
      1 Peter 3:21 Corresponding to that, baptism now saves you—not the removal of dirt from the flesh, but an appeal to God for a good conscience—through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
      
      And finally, Jesus’ own words:
      
      Mark 16:16 He who has believed and has been baptized shall be saved; but he who has disbelieved shall be condemned.
      
      There’s more, but this is sufficient, I think.
      
      Blessings,
      
      Sandi
      Reply Cancel
Anita Outcelt
8 years ago
The way I interpret the post is being a member of the Church of Christ dies not make you a Christian. Being a Christian makes you a member or , better yet, a part of the church of Christ.
Reply Cancel
bryan
8 years ago
I am a bond servant to my Lord Jesus Christ. I am a Christian, a brother, and father, a husband, and a son. I am still me not a fraction or faction. I am all these things by BLOOD. A blood relative to my family members, and a blood bought sinner saved by grace. There is only one way to the Father and that is through the BLOOD of the Son. Let each individual seek their own salvation with fear and trembling.
Reply Cancel
Rachel
8 years ago
I just returned home from a weeklong WorkCamp where 250 kids and adults from 5 different states all came together to help a community repair homes. During this time we also spent many hours praising God and growing in our relationship with him and with each other. We had Lutheran, Methodist, Baptists, etc, and never once did anyone comment on their denomination. We were all just followers of Christ. Period.
Reply Cancel
Randall
8 years ago
I do not understand the comments and tenor of the article. The New Testament example was for churches in every city and most likely more than one place of assembly depending upon the size of the city and the people who were attending. We are called out and are members of one body and one church. There is an affirmative obligation for all Christians to meet and assemble with the saints. The example and practice as set out in the New Testament is that they met on the first day of the week.

My concern is that the statements about church of Christ or whatever name is on the sign/building is actually a rejection of authority and the principles of authority within the Bible. The Bible, whether in the Old Testament Patriarch/Mosaic Law/New Covenant-New Testament Church identified conduct, worship, and practices that were deemed right and wrong/in accordance with God’s direction or not in accordance. The notion that all denominations are the same, that nobody can make a statement that one practice is correct or not correct is baffling. To teach that all practices, so long as they are done with the heart loving God is acceptable. There can be well intentioned and “good people” who are not following God’s word.

“Not everyone who says unto me ‘Lord, Lord” will enter into the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, “Lord, Lord did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name? And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.” Matthew 7:21`-23

For this scripture to have any meaning, there can not be a teaching or belief that good works and good hearts loving Jesus are the only criteria for salvation and for being member of the kingdom.

The local congregations are made up of members who are human. Humans can make mistakes in judgment and in decisions. The New Testament established that there was to be leadership within the local congregations. That leadership was vested in and assigned to elders and deacons. On the Second Missionary Journey appointment of elders was what was done. Rejecting all vestiges of authority, structure, leadership is not the pattern and practice as set out in the New Testament with the early church. There is an obligation for all believers and Christians to make their due diligence into the teachings, practices, and activities of every local congregation.

It is great that people of differing faiths can get together for social events but, there should not be a watering down of the gospel to the lowest common denominator, love of Jesus”
Reply Cancel
- Sandi Rog
  8 years ago
  Randal, I completely agree with you. If I’m saying anything unscriptural, I hope you will please show me.
  
  Your sister,
  
  Sandi
  Reply Cancel
Diana
8 years ago
As much as I love & admire your writing & inspiration I personally do not agree with this .We know that the bible is the authority we have. In the bible we are guided not only by direct command, but also by example and necessary inference.
I do not look at the name “church of Christ” necessarily as a title but more as an expression of ownership. Christ purchased his church with the utmost sacrifice of his own blood. (Acts 20:28). I am sure we agree there is no doubt that Christ is head of the church and therefore the rightful owner. Just as the deed to your home or car bares your name to designate that you are the owner so does the name church of Christ show ownership of the church and giving all glory to him.
At the time the church was established multiple denominations/divisions did not yet exist and therefore no need to give a specific title and could be referred to as “The Church”. There was only one church with many members. Just as we have only one church with many members/congregations.
In 1 Cor 1:12-27 Paul admonished some of the members at Corinth when they began wearing separate names. He told them there is ONE BODY but many members. When the church is referred to “the church at Corinth”, or the “church at Antioch”, etc., these were simply to designate geographical location or characteristics found in some of it’s members. (one church, many members) Those designations were not used as names. Just as different congregations use designations now, such as Medina church of Christ, Lorain Ave. church of Christ. The city is the geographical location but the title give glory to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ who purchase the church with his blood.
My concern is the example we show to others. Sometimes the name is the first thing the public sees. We are to do all in His name (Colossians 3:17). Therefore the name we bare should reflect the honor and glory of its builder, recognizing the ultimate sacrifice of his death in order to establish his church. We then will have eternal life through His name (John 20:30-31). Why would be not want it to bear the name of our savior?
Reply Cancel
- Sandi Rog
  8 years ago
  Diana, well said. Amen. Thank you!
  
  I don’t think, however, that Serena intends to leave Christ’s name out. Unless I’ve misunderstood somehow?
  Reply Cancel
- Amy
  8 years ago
  Why should my salvation hinge upon attending church at a building with a particular name on the sign outside? I’ve attended different churches over my lifetime, and every one of them recognizes the church as belonging to Christ, regardless of the name on the sign. I find no fault with anyone that wishes to attend where the literal name on the sign states “Church of Christ,” but I do find offense if I’m labeled a sinner for my choice to attend one that does not. I really do not know how anyone can believe that part of God’s Judgment process will be sorting out who went to what church, particularly since many believers meet in groups or buildings without any designation and have for centuries. That’s just my humble opinion on this subject.
  Reply Cancel
  - Amy
    8 years ago
    I should add that I believe we will be judged upon what is in our hearts and not with whom we have chosen to worship God. I, too, find the denominational labels unnecessary.
    Reply Cancel
    - Kelsey
      8 years ago
      Although I love the idea that we will be judged only on our hearts, God has asked us in the Bible to follow His word and obey Him. There are many denominations that do not focus on their Bible and don’t ever even crack the Bible open to see what God has instructed on many things. They just listen to what they are told at church. There are so many wonderful people that have wonderful hearts, but are not striving to follow God’s commandments in the Bible. We should be studying our Bible on these matters every day. I believe a great book to read on this matter of denominations is Muscle and a Shovel. I suggest to anyone who is interested in this topic should read it. It’s a story of a man’s life as he’s trying to figure it all out himself. It’s an easy read with a great message. I hope you enjoy.
      Reply Cancel
  - Becca
    8 years ago
    Well-said, Amy! Some of the people posting comments are examples of why I have considered leaving the Church of Christ many times. The only reason why ANY of us are going to heaven is JESUS, period. NOT what church we go to or what we believe about baptism, instrumental music, women’s roles, or whether we call our preacher a “minister” or a “pastor.” The church I currently attend is instrumental and has women take part in the service. There is no talk like these comments in my church, and that’s one of the reasons why I’m still there and not in another church. However, I will not go back to the church of my childhood, who, in my opinion, did more tearing down of “other” churches and their ways than building up its members, and sometimes seemed to care more about the non-use of instruments and “keeping silent” of women than discipleship and evangelism.
    Reply Cancel
    - Sandi Rog
      8 years ago
      Dear sweet Becca,
      
      Can you share some scriptures that support these opinions? If not, please be aware, they are just opinions you’re expressing and practicing, which in essence makes them “traditions of men.” I don’t always like what God tells us to do or what is right and wrong, but He’s our father, so we better obey.
      
      Salvation hinges on Jesus and what He did for us on the cross. The key is, we must “obey” that message and what He did (as it says in 2 Thessalonians 1:6-9 where in a nutshell it says that it’s only just that God punish those who do not “obey the gospel”). The “gospel” is defined in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4. So, how in the world do we obey Christ’s death, burial and resurrection? That’s explained to us in Romans 6, where we die to our sins in a watery grave and are raised again to new life through immersion/baptism.
      
      God is in heaven, so we can’t see Him, touch Him, taste Him, or smell Him, so . . . how do we love Him? We know He loves us because He died for us, but how do we show our love back? He wants us to love Him with all our might, heart, soul and mind. So . . . how do we do that?
      
      Jesus answers that question for us in John 14:15 “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” And then again in verse 21 “He who has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me.” And again in verses 23-24 “Jesus answered and said to him, ‘If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our abode with him. He who does not love Me does not keep my words; and the word which you hear is not Mine, but the Father’s who sent Me.” And again in 15:10 “If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love.” And finally, 1 John 5:3 says, “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome.”
      
      We all know what the scriptures say about women’s role, and if we go against that and ignore those scriptures, then we’re not in obedience to God our heavenly Father. It’s pretty simple, either you love Him or you love your ideas and what you want to do. If you go with your ideas/opinions then you’re not worshipping the God of the Bible, and you might want to question “who” then you are worshipping.
      
      Satan is clever. He’s been around a lot longer than us and knows very well just how we work and how to deceive us. Please, don’t be deceived.
      
      Love in Christ,
      
      Sandi
      Reply Cancel
Serena
8 years ago
The greater of my concerns is that the church of Jesus isn’t supposed to be an institution with a name on a sign that sits in front of a building. The church that Jesus died for is in the community being their master to the lost and dying people around them.

As for any remarks floating around that I am ashamed of Jesus. I invite you to join me in a day in the life of Serena. Seriously.
Reply Cancel
- Sandi Rog
  8 years ago
  Yes, that’s what I understood from your post. I’m just sorry that folks, both in and out of the church, believe the churches of Christ are a denomination. There’s a BIG difference between the church and the denominations out there. I’ve seen it all first-hand. I’m not saying there aren’t sincere believers outside the church. There are many! We just need to approach them as Pricilla and Aquila did Apollos by teaching them the Way more accurately.
  Reply Cancel
  - Serena
    8 years ago
    Sandi,
    I do have concerns that those claiming non-denominational Christianity are not living up to that claim. Try planting a church and changing the way it looks. From the name to meeting times, to order of service- we have been called false teachers and our names called from the pulpit of several churches. I am not concerned about looking like a Church of Christ, I am concerned with looking like the body of Christ that I read about in the New Testament. I don’t want the burden of tradition and pleasing men in the way I serve my savior.
    Reply Cancel
    - Sandi Rog
      8 years ago
      Serena, it sounds like you and Dan have suffered from abuse, and from the pulpit of all things, which makes it a billion times worse. I’m so sorry to hear this! And over such issues. It sounds too absurd to be true! Please, let me try to understand where you’re coming from:
      
      Does your congregation (or you) believe having a sign on your building is a sin? Do you have a “sign” at all on your building? If so, why? This is assuming you all meet in a building, because if we wanted to be exactly like the Christians were in the first century, we should be meeting in our homes (which is “why” they didn’t have signs). And honestly, I feel like we’d be much better at serving the Lord if we did that. No one would fall through the cracks, sitting on back pews where no one sees them, and we’d be able to love and meet the needs of our members much more efficiently that way. We interpret scripture by command, example and inference. Is meeting in homes not an example? Hmm. Thinking out loud here. This is definitely something I’ve been thinking about for quite some time. I’ve seen too many brethren get “left behind,” so-to-speak, because the congregation got too big. But that’s another topic.
      
      Anyway, I understand not wanting the burden of pleasing men and their traditions. Totally with you on that. That’s not what God calls us to do. My only concern in this case would be whether or not I was a stumbling block. Again, thinking out loud here. I may not be sinning or doing anything wrong, just like eating meat sacrificed to idols wasn’t “wrong” in the NT. But God calls us to be sensitive and not “eat meat” in front of the brother who believes it was wrong. Is it possible this is a “meat” issue?
      
      Why did the church change the name on their building in the first place? Was it for those in the congregation? Were people offended by Christ’s name being on your sign? (That’s what was removed, right?) Did they think it was a sin? My guess would be, IF your congregation was offended it would be because they think of the churches of Christ as a denomination. My husband just baptized a young man who didn’t want to become a member of the “Church of Christ.” He’s a soccer student at Freed-Hardeman, a dark-skinned individual, and since the time he arrived, he was treated with distain (for not being a Christian) and racism (for being dark-skinned). By the “Church of Christ!” If this is the reason, or something similar, as to why the name of your sign is changed, I can understand. But . . . not wanting to have the burden of pleasing man in this situation, “who” are we then trying to please? Why was it changed? For God’s sake? Or for man’s sake? I mean, these signs on buildings are for men anyway, right? God doesn’t need them. So, why was it changed? I honestly don’t know the answer here, so I’m not making assumptions. Just trying to understand. And really, this may be none of my business. As for dress and times, they don’t dress quite as nicely on this side of the country, nor do they stick to the times (these change regularly for our congregation). Some dress nicely for worship, and others are more casual. God’s not looking at our clothes anyway. He’s looking at our hearts. But if we were going to meet the president, I think I’d dress up. But I say that, and I’m sure I’m one of the “casual” dressers.
      
      Either way, this has clearly offended the brethren. And now they’re accusing you of “sinning.” I can imagine in the NT when a brother was “caught” eating meat sacrificed to idols, that a brother or sister might have reacted the same way. But this would mean I’m accusing those outside your congregation who are offended (or maybe they’re just “worried” about your salvation?) the weaker brother, while in their minds you are the weaker one, and my accusing them of being “weaker” might be offensive. In the case of the meat situation, I have a feeling it was also the same, each one assuming the other was the “weak” one. Maybe it’d be good if we all just treated each other as the “weaker” one? Not that you haven’t been. Just a thought.
      
      Well, I personally don’t always (note, I said “always”) mind being the weak one if it keeps my brother from stumbling. But then, that brings on another thought. Again, thinking out loud here. Are you causing them to stumble? I don’t know how you can know if you are or not, other than the fact that they’re clearly “offended.” Otherwise, they wouldn’t be calling you out from the pulpit. Which then leads me to think the only “stumbling” that seems to be happening is possibly gossip? And whose fault is that, really? You haven’t forced them to go out and talk bad about you. But I’m not you or them, I didn’t witness any of this, so who really knows? LOL
      
      Okay, if we catch our brother in a sin, the Bible is clear that we are to go to our brother/sister in private. Then if that’s not enough, we’re to bring two or more witnesses, and if that doesn’t work, then they bring the matter to the church (Matt. 18). Did these people come to you in private? Of course, none of this is my business, so you don’t have to answer this. But certainly, this is something to be answered before God.
      
      As for traveling believers who are looking for a place to worship, and even those believers who live in the vicinity, what do they think of your sign? And will they be able to find the church? That would be my only concern. I love it when traveling and I find a sign that says church of Christ. I know my brothers and sisters aren’t far. It gives me comfort. On the flip side, I sometimes dread telling people where I worship: “Northwest church of Christ.” I dread it because I know what they’re going to think. They’re going to put me in a box and assume I’m something I’m not or accuse me of all kinds of things. “Oh, you guys don’t have music. Oh, you’re the ones who think I’m going to hell. Yada, yada, etc.” But I tell them anyway. When I think of the church, I think of my brothers and sister who I meet with, who I love and care about so deeply. Are they perfect? Of course not! That’s the whole reason we need Christ. But how do we (I) look to outsiders? When they get to know me, am I seen as arrogant because I know the truth and they don’t? That’s what this young man from Freed experienced. It’s sickening. The whole reason we’re here is to SERVE God by REACHING OUT to others, not by judging them and acting like we’re better because we’ve been saved and they’re not. Seriously?! It’s God’s job to judge. We’re only supposed to judge those inside the body, and apparently in your case, that’s what’s happening. Question is, is it truly scriptural? Is there a book, chapter and verse to back up this judgment?
      
      Okay, this is getting too long. Not sure I’m any better off than I was and could be totally in left field, and I certainly hope I haven’t offended you (my precious sister) or any of my brothers and sisters in Christ reading this.
      
      Love,
      
      Sandi
      Reply Cancel
Rebecca
8 years ago
Ephesians 4:4-5 comes to mind and so does 1 Corinthians 1:10.
Reply Cancel
Jim Woodell
8 years ago
A well written article. Thanks for sharing. I encourage you to check out this book: Heaven’s Star: check out this ancient GPS. Amazon.com.
Reply Cancel
Don Koster
8 years ago
By no other name can we be saved. ..
There is something in a name. . As was mentioned before the name “Church of Christ” signifies ownership. Christ established His church… The name also indicates doctrine. As was mentioned before the name on the building indicates the teaching that is being taught inside the walls.. The name church of Christ also signifies the authority by which we proclaim the truth of the Bible.. John the Baptist did not die for our sins and neither are we baptized in his nsme.. When we have been baptized into Christ we have put on Christ. .
There are so many scriptures that verify that Christ is the way.. authority.. builder.. savior… and head of His church..
It seems foolish to use any other name… He is sovereign! !
Reply Cancel
- Serena
  8 years ago
  What did the signs on the buildings say in the book of Acts? Or in the epistles?
  Reply Cancel
  - John
    8 years ago
    For that matter, did they even USE buildings in the first century for the express purpose of gathering for worship? Where is the NT authority for the construction of a “church building?”
    
    As I recall, the way Jesus said people will know that we are His disciples is by our love.
    Reply Cancel
Taylor
8 years ago
I found that this article helped with the whole denominational thing! http://www.radicallychristian.com/is-the-church-of-christ-a-denomination
Reply Cancel
- Serena
  8 years ago
  Well, in my experience I have never heard anyone say they are a branch of the church. I’m not sure about that.
  Reply Cancel
Rachelle
8 years ago
I love this. I recently told my friend that I hate Church. Both of us grew up deep ‘in the Church’ and know the politics involved with it all. Amen to us actually following Jesus.

‘Love one another as I have loved you.’ Imagine if we actually did that.
Reply Cancel
- Serena
  8 years ago
  If 12 men could turn the world upside down imagine what we could do if we loved like Jesus.
  Reply Cancel
- Sandi Rog
  8 years ago
  Rachelle, no body of believers is going to be perfect, and you will find “politics” no matter where you go, mainly because the “church” is made up of sinners. We’re all there because we need Christ. But my concern with your statement about “hating Church” is that the “church” is Christ’s body: Col. 1:24 “. . . His body, which is the church . . . ” I can understand you sentiment, but I just wanted you to be warned to take care with your words. You may be trying to insult the practices (traditions of) believers, but in essence, you’re insulting Christ. I know that’s not your intent, but that’s why I felt the need to say this. We need to take care with our words, is all.
  Reply Cancel
Drew Milligan
8 years ago
Serena,

I would like a little clarification on something you wrote in your post.

“Jesus said our testimony will be in our unity. What message is sent when we aren’t unified?”

What exactly do you mean by this? Are you saying that we should strive for unity with denominations and if so should we strive for unity with them by compromising the scriptures ?

I believe your intentions are good but I would just like a little clarification.

In Christ,

Drew Milligan.
Reply Cancel
- Sandi Rog
  8 years ago
  The only way to be unified is if we obey scriptures. Plain and simple. Once we stray from the truth, we then have disunity, and that’s when opinions, feelings, and ultimately denominations crop up. Sometimes we have disunity when we disagree with the text, but that’s when it might be good to ask ourselves, “why” we disagree. Is it something we don’t “like” hearing, don’t want to conform to?That’s usually the case, IMO. Which circles right back to the fact that we MUST OBEY the Bible to be unified. God holds us together by his Word. Sorry, I know you weren’t talking to me. I just had to say these things.
  Reply Cancel
- Serena
  8 years ago
  May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me. John 17:23
  Reply Cancel
  - Sandi Rog
    8 years ago
    Serena, why didn’t you answer this man’s question? This verse is powerful, but it doesn’t answer his question. Or if it does, I need clarification, an explanation. Sorry!
    Reply Cancel
  - Loran
    8 years ago
    I agree that Christ prayed for our unity. Look in the context of that verse Serena. It says “I pray also for those who will believe in me through their word”. The “their” is referring to the apostles from the previous text. The basis of unity that Christ was praying for was on the words of the apostles. If people claim Christ but do not follow the apostles words, can they be unified?
    Reply Cancel
Paula Harrington
8 years ago
Excellent article! Thank you!
Reply Cancel
Sarah
8 years ago
Human beings catagorize. it is just what we do. we like to say this is this and that is that. This is a big issue in the church because really, “the church” is comprised of those striving toward the call of christ. Those living by faith. Those following the truth. No matter what our group “name” is, that (to me) is what makes someone a member of the church. if i walked into a building where a worship service was happening and the building had a protestant denomination name on the outside of the building but i learn their practices are those of the first century church and in accordance with scripture-then we are a member of the same church. It should not be the name that defines us, but our actions.
That being said-the name often is seen as a definition of the actions of the members. the sentence is a bit messy because there are a lot of “ifs” built into that statement. Not even all buildings labeled “church of christ” find the people meeting there following the same practices as others meeting in buildings with that title. However, if you are traveling and looking for a local congregation to meet with, it is a matter of convenience that you can search out a group under a given name that is likely to hold to the truths you yourself adhere to.

I think “Church of Christ” is a denomination in many of “its” practices. I think many of its “members” hold the same belief I do, that it should not be about the name, but the name has become recognizable by culture to have certain “beliefs” tied to it.

Until I find a congregation that adheres to the truth better than where I attend now, i shall continue to attend West Seventh Church of Christ, nut not because they call themselves a church of christ, because i believe they strive each day for the truth.
I have always said i will gladly move on if I feel the truth lies elsewhere.

So basically, I agree with you, but i also have an understanding for the convenience of the label and as long as it doesn’t affect our call to heist (sometimes it does, but it doesn’t have to) I don’t see it as a problem in and of itself. Society is making it an issue it doesn’t have to be.
Oh so common.
Reply Cancel
Mel
8 years ago
The church is the body of Christ and the body are those who follow Him. Therefore when we say we are the church of Christ, we are saying that we are His followers.
Reply Cancel
- Rebecca
  8 years ago
  Yes! Thank you!
  Reply Cancel
- Eddie
  8 years ago
  I have seen signs on older Church of Christ that read “The Church of Christ meet here”. The members are the Church of Christ. That building is where the members meet. Simple, when it’s looked at it that way.
  Reply Cancel
Patrick
8 years ago
It is not the name but the lifestyle that makes the Christian. And not lifestyle but the Savior who saves. Many people from many different denominations will be condemned just as many from many different denominations will be saved. What the later will have in common is an accurate obedience in the the word of God and a spotless sooul that has been cleansed by the father. Live His word inside and out and denomination cannot be an issue.
Reply Cancel
Mel
8 years ago
I am not Baptist, Methodist, Catholic, or any other denomination because when Paul said in 1 Corinthians 1:12 “Am I of Paul? Am of I of Cephas? Am I of Appollos? Am I of Christ?”, he was noting that there are no factions (denominations) we are to follow Christ. And if there are no denominations then the only name for the church (His people) is the church of Christ.
Reply Cancel
Steve Wolfgang
8 years ago
I appreciate your adding your voice to the many others who have worked to disabuse minds of the idea that “church” is a building (since a building is simply a facility enabling an ekklesia to do the most fundamental thing an ekklesia does – assemble).

We can certainly agree that the phrase “the churches of Christ salute you” in Romans 16:16 is not “designating a type of denomination” or that a YP ad is not equivalent to enrollment in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

But while joining in the general cringing when I hear someone say “I’m Church of Christ” (often just before or after they introduced me as their “pastor” when I wasn’t serving as a shepherd or “overseer”), I must confess to a degree of confusion about some of the language and concepts expressed in this post. A few questions to clarify my concerns: Was it the names, per se, that divided the Corinthians? Wasn’t the root more in misplaced loyalties at best, or petty favoritism at worst?

And maybe more fundamentally, is there really no distinction in (to use your examples), claiming to be Baptist (or any other humanly-created formal denomination), versus identifying oneself as a member of the body which is Christ’s church, or rejecting all human names and creeds (and thus being “non-denominational”)? And if one is a member only of a local ekklesia, without denominational headquarters, creed or confession on which one must be “examined” or “present testimony” before being voted upon, disavowing any human name or infrastructure, what more would it take to be “non-denominational?”

Granted that some might badly fumble such attempts from time to time and place to place, and that all of us need to be constantly on guard lest our thinking become even subconsciously sectarian, do you really mean to say that there is no difference between even feeble attempts to follow only Christ and his teaching, and, by contrast, being avowedly affiliated with formal groups which proudly wear the names of men or particular religious systems, and derive their doctrines from admittedly human creeds which contradict other human creeds (to say nothing of the Scriptures)?

In your opinion, is there no fundamental difference in those who denominate themselves around the constantly-revised doctrines and commandments of men, and who cleverly recruit others to join them, contrasted with those who, however imperfectly, reject such humanisms? With all due respect, you seem to re-write 1 Corinthians 1:12-13 to say something it doesn’t really say.

It is relatively easy to become overtly (and maybe overly) critical of alleged “denominationalizing tendencies” among those who, independent of any structurally sectarian group, are trying rather to be Jesus followers. It has always seemed passing strange to me that such critics are not at least equally willing to energetically expose and reprove those who have already made the trek fully into the swamp of human sectarianism.

If you are simply a Christian, and I am simply a Christian, surely we will agree to reject all human creeds and the formally structured denominations which propagate and perpetrate them upon others. Is there anything Jesus was more openly derisive of than those who substituted for God’s revelation the doctrines and commandments of men?

I hope you will consider these questions in the constructive spirit in which they are offered.

— Steve Wolfgang
Reply Cancel
Sandi Rog
8 years ago
#Marion Hunt, our “standard” is the Bible. Not a man-made creed or code of ethics. The Bible. Period. That doesn’t not make us a denomination.
Reply Cancel
- Sandi Rog
  8 years ago
  *does NOT
  Reply Cancel
Josh
8 years ago
Thanks for this post. It is amazing that we can not only refuse to accept that we are a denomination, but believe we are the one true church. I suppose much of it is based on the typical Coc understanding of baptism, that you must have perfect understanding of it for it to “count,” which is a little ridiculous. It’s interesting how we will say you have to have perfect understanding of baptism, yet what about perfect understanding of Jesus? And since when does Jesus’ grace cover moral sins, but He can’t cover imperfect knowledge?

Sadly, denominations have been so villainized, and we have been told over and over again how right we are and how wrong they are, that we read it into the scriptures and cannot see anything than what we have been told. Even in these comments, there’s this assumption that we have it all right, they have it all wrong, and we need to fix them. It’s so… sad.

At the center of Christianity is not a principle, a truth, or a doctrine, it’s a Savior. It’s Jesus, bloodied on a cross for our sin, declaring His love for sinful people. But instead of a pursuit of Jesus, we approach the Bible like its a mathematical pattern we must discern and have. 1+1=2… as though that is how the Bible is written. I think Jesus words here would apply to so many of us in the Coc:

“You pore over the scriptures because you think you have eternal life in them, yet they testify about Me. And you are not willing to come to Me so that you may have life.” John 5:39-40

It’s not doctrinal correctness, belonging to the right group, having perfect understanding, or a formula that saves, its Jesus and His grace. That’s all. Condemning other groups wholesale because they don’t see some issues the same way is downright dangerous. May God forgive us for such pride.

“But to the one who does not work, but believes in Him who declares the ungodly to be righteous, his faith is credited for righteousness.” Rom. 4:5
Reply Cancel
- Sandi Rog
  8 years ago
  Please allow me to try and understand.
  
  It sounds to me like you’re telling us it’s “okay to be divided.” That we can all be divided in Christ and that’s just fine with our Savior. That’s what it sounds like you’re telling us when you say it’s okay to have denominations (a.k.a. divisions). I can understand why you think it’s sad that we can’t all accept one another, denomination and all, but it’s important to realize that what you’re “really saying” is we need to accept one another’s “teachings.” We need to be careful when we start thinking that way. You see, yes, it is a “math problem.” Remember, God invented math. And this is all about math and being “divided.” God wants us “whole.” Just as Christ prayed for unity.
  
  How do we find unity, wholeness? By obeying God’s word. Plain and simple. Either you obey the rules of Truth He’s laid out for us (Jesus said to Pilot, He came to “testify to the TRUTH”), or we go along our own paths of “feel good religion,” skipping our way into destruction, while Satan cheers us along, making our life easy and uncomplicated because we are doing things his way. This is God-Almighty we’re dealing with. We better make sure we are serving Him, and not His enemy.
  
  Truth in and of itself is narrow-minded: 1+1 will always be 2. God’s invention. It can’t be changed. Nor can God’s word.
  
  If someone decides that saying the “sinner’s prayer” brings them salvation, while baptism is an “outward sign of an inward faith,” and there’s no need to be baptized in order to be saved, they are believing a lie! They are believing in a doctrine that is false because it is “not found” in God’s word, anywhere! Sadly (and this is what truly is “sad”) Satan has led millions of people down this path, and he continues to do so. He’s out to get our souls, and being slack about our salvation is foolish and unwise. And it’s our job to warn these lost people! If you saw a flood or fire heading their way, wouldn’t it be loving to warn them? That’s what the church is doing! It would be “sad” if they didn’t warn them. Philippians 2:12 “So then, my beloved, just as you have always OBEYED, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, WORK OUT your salvation with fear and trembling” (emphasis mine). The denominational world believes salvation doesn’t involve “works.” This scripture is not talking about “earning our salvation,” it’s talking about “obedience to God.”
  
  The key to serving Christ, just as He served His Father, is obedience. He did nothing without the Father’s consent. Nothing! I’ve already posted all the verses from John stating “how” we are to love God: Jesus Himself says if we love Him and the Father, we MUST OBEY Him/keep His commandments (John 14:15, 21, 23-24, and 15:10 ). The fact that Jesus repeats Himself so often here, should tell us something. Obeying God is what will unify us. The problem is, people refuse to obey. It’s not about being a member of a Church of Christ (in the denominational sense) or a member of Serena’s Church, or Sandi’s Church, or any other denomination you can come up with or invent. It’s about being obedient to God and His rules, whether we like them or not.
  
  Question is, how well do we know our Bible?
  
  2 Timothy 2:15 says, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, ACCURATELY HANDLING THE WORD OF TRUTH” (emphasis mine).
  
  It’s important that we “know” the scripture, and the churches of Christ (most of them, anyway) teach the TRUTH. But does this mean we blindly follow what they tell us? No. We need to be noble-minded like the Bereans in Acts 17:11, “Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so.”
  
  We must examine the scripture and obey it, which (according to Christ) is how we love God. We must love Him back!
  
  Job 23:10-12
  
  “But He knows where I am going.
  And when He tests me, I will come out as pure as gold.
  
  For I have stayed on God’s paths;
  I have followed His ways and not turned aside.
  
  I have not departed from His commands,
  but have treasured His words more than daily food.”
  
  May God have mercy on us all.
  
  Blessings,
  
  Sandi
  Reply Cancel
Conrad
8 years ago
Jesus gave us the structure in which he recognizes a body of local believers. As believers we grow (perfected, matured) under the facilitation of a Pastor (Ephesians 4:11-12). There are just too many scriptures and Biblical principles to mention. Both I must say that equal opposite extremes error. This article may be too extreme. I too left the Church of Christmas movement.
Reply Cancel
Serena
8 years ago
http://www.radicallychristian.com/5-reasons-to-stop-trying-to-restore-the-church-of-the-50s-and-60s
Reply Cancel
- Sandi Rog
  8 years ago
  Very good article. Thank you for sharing.
  Reply Cancel