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.
Another reason why many people prefer to join independent congregations is because they feel alienated and marginalized by the formal religions. Gay people, for example, are not accepted in many denominations or strenuous efforts are made to heal them and to convince them that their lifestyle will lead to eternal punishment in hell. Such people find acceptance in alternative religious structures where they are not judges so harshly.
Theologians warn that Christians are often blinded by the fact that the churches they choose to join do not preach or practice a balanced religion. They focus on those issues that people want to hear and conveniently ignore issues such as sin and Satan. They also argue that formal churches have spent many years and much study in developing their doctrines and policies according to the Word of God.
Some independent churches have proven to be nothing but scams used to enrich the leaders of the congregation. They entice people to join their congregations with lofty promises of earthly and heavenly rewards. Most of these operators are extremely slick. They are excellent orators and strangely enough, people believe them. Christians should show common sense and follow their own inner convictions when looking for a place of worship.
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.
Another reason why many people prefer to join independent congregations is because they feel alienated and marginalized by the formal religions. Gay people, for example, are not accepted in many denominations or strenuous efforts are made to heal them and to convince them that their lifestyle will lead to eternal punishment in hell. Such people find acceptance in alternative religious structures where they are not judges so harshly.
Theologians warn that Christians are often blinded by the fact that the churches they choose to join do not preach or practice a balanced religion. They focus on those issues that people want to hear and conveniently ignore issues such as sin and Satan. They also argue that formal churches have spent many years and much study in developing their doctrines and policies according to the Word of God.
Some independent churches have proven to be nothing but scams used to enrich the leaders of the congregation. They entice people to join their congregations with lofty promises of earthly and heavenly rewards. Most of these operators are extremely slick. They are excellent orators and strangely enough, people believe them. Christians should show common sense and follow their own inner convictions when looking for a place of worship.
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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