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.
Most congregations are part of a formal faith structure that adheres to certain commonly held doctrines and sacraments. These congregations are managed centrally and they do not make policy decisions regarding doctrine independently. Independent churches such as those commonly found in Denver CO do not belong to a larger formal religious organization. Each congregation stands on its own feet and decides on matters of doctrine for themselves. They do not report to any religious authorities either.
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 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.
There is a world wide movement towards spirituality and many people feel that their needs can only be served within the Christian faith. Yet they feel that they want to be part of a modern congregation that addresses the issues faced by modern day Christians. Finding a suitable congregation can be a challenge however.
Most congregations are part of a formal faith structure that adheres to certain commonly held doctrines and sacraments. These congregations are managed centrally and they do not make policy decisions regarding doctrine independently. Independent churches such as those commonly found in Denver CO do not belong to a larger formal religious organization. Each congregation stands on its own feet and decides on matters of doctrine for themselves. They do not report to any religious authorities either.
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 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.
There is a world wide movement towards spirituality and many people feel that their needs can only be served within the Christian faith. Yet they feel that they want to be part of a modern congregation that addresses the issues faced by modern day Christians. Finding a suitable congregation can be a challenge however.
About the Author:
Pay a visit to our non denominational church this Sunday and join our friendly community in Denver. Check out the Sunday worship times here at http://www.plattparkchurch.org.
