Often, the issue of denominational bias is one that gives a cause for concern. In the article, The Resonating Silence: Persecution of the faith, there is a section discussing persecution based on denominational bias. This denominational bias can be attributed to a different expression of God in the various churches. What do you think of this bias? Is there one right expression of God? Should a comparison between the various expressions of God exist?
While on a holiday in Poland last year, I encountered this conversation with my friend’s brother. Wroclaw, the city I had gone to visit, has a couple of churches within the same proximity; Lutheran, Catholic and some other denominations. We – my friend’s brother and I – spoke about how many people are drifting from the traditional feel churches to the more modern ones. I know that this happens a lot but it gave me something to think through.
As I grow in my Christian journey, I constantly realise that all churches have a different expression of God. What do I mean by a different expression? For example, there are doctrinal differences between churches based on what their mission and vision is. Now, should we compare these churches knowing fully that they are different?
Traditional or Modern Churches?
Due to the lack of understanding among many people, there’s always a comparison between the more traditional and modern churches. Some people conclude that the traditional church doesn’t reflect God because it’s not a modern church. And some others vice versa. How about we look at the Gospel for direction?
‘Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. ‘ I Corinthians 1:10
In 1 Corinthians 1:10, you see Apostle Paul admonish each of us to not be divided about matters of faith. He asks that you and I be in full agreement with each other.
What do you think the basis for our agreement will be? 1 Corinthians 3:10-11 speaks about Jesus being the foundation and every other person building upon that foundation.
‘According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let each one take heed how he builds on it. For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. ‘ I Corinthians 3:10-11
Above all, the main thing to consider at every point is “Is Jesus the essence of this church?“. After that question is answered, you should consider the doctrines of the church. If you cannot live by the doctrines, it’s okay to consider a different church.
What if your expression of God is different from your church’s?
Often times, I see people leave the church because of one issue or the other. Generally, there are various reasons but the most common being a different expression of God. As you may know, you and I go through various seasons of life. Sometimes, these seasons come with different needs, including a different expression of God.
What then do you do when you notice this difference? I’ll like to ask you to adapt this method: Speak about it with trusted authorities in the church. As a former member of a fellowship leadership, I can tell you that the church wants to know what you’re going through. If you decide to just up and leave, they will never know why and what to do in case it happens again.
When you have spoken about it and nothing changes, then you can decide if leaving will be beneficial to you.
Another question that needs to be answered is: Should you start your own church because of your different expression of God? The best answer to this is to examine your motive: Why do you want to start a new church? Is God directing you to start this church? Is there a need that isn’t being catered to?
‘Now I say this, that each of you says, “I am of Paul,” or “I am of Apollos,” or “I am of Cephas,” or “I am of Christ.” Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?’ I Corinthians 1:12-13
Is there one right expression of God?
Over the last years, I have encountered people with a belief superiority system. If you aren’t a part of their church then you don’t serve God or you just aren’t Christian enough. Honestly, it takes the grace of God and the discernment of the Holy Spirit to correct this belief.
From birth, I’ve always gone to an Anglican church. Then I went to Catholic schools and at some point I wanted to be Catholic. Why? I disliked the extra dancing to the front of the church to drop-off my offering. I believed the Catholic church was way simpler and I didn’t want the attention.
When I got to Hungary, there were varying expressions of God; different churches to choose from. In the end, I stuck to the best one for me. You probably may or may not be able to relate to this. In other words, there can be many expressions of God, some very subtle, others a little more expressive. The point being that: It’s God we’re talking about here, He created you and I with very different features. Why then are you trying to limit Him to just one expression?
With that being said, please I do not encourage church prostitution. Church prostitution is the act of moving between different churches with a non-committal attitude. It’s okay to checkout different churches that offer the expression of God you have. However, it’s problematic when you jump from church to church looking for different benefits.
As an instance, you come to Church A when food will be shared. Next Sunday, you’re in church B and the list goes on. It’s advised to stick to one church so that you can continuously evaluate your growth and improve where needed.
How to find your expression of God?
Over the course of this article, there’s been an agenda to help you find your expression of God. I’ve tried to highlight these points through the various sub-headings discussed. In the end, the key point is to go back to the word of God and let it speak to you. Let it direct you, the Bible says that wisdom is profitable to direct in Ecclesiastes 10:10.
‘Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. ‘ 2 Timothy 2:15
Here are some articles that may help you: What role does knowledge play in Christianity? and The idea of Church .
Read the Previous article: How to recognize God’s help? A guide to Psalm 121
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