How many denominations are there?
There are quite a number of us represented here?
At my table alone we have a pentecostal, a Moravian Christian and a couple of Anglicans.
There are competing definitions about what it means to be church.
We are too divided. Our titles mark out our distinct ecclesiology and identity. We distinguish ourselves from others.
How would you define yourself and why?
5 comments:
Rachel - Hi
"How many denominations are there?"
Seems wikipedia reports over 38,000 denominations. Wow!!!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Christian_denominations
You wrote,
"We are too divided."
"Our titles mark out our distinct ecclesiology and identity."
Titles. Hmmm?
Let me not, I pray you, accept any man’s person,
neither let me give flattering titles unto man.
For I know not to give flattering titles;
in so doing my maker would soon take me away.
Job 32:21 KJV
Doesn't it seem like “titles” become idols? (Ezk 14)
And we, His body, are now "divided?"
Don’t “titles” divide? Don’t “titles” cause separation?
Don’t “titles” say, I am, you’re not?
Don’t “titles” say, we are, they’re not?
Anglican, Lutheran, Assemblies of God; --- separation.
Reformed, Evangelical, Charismatic; --- separation.
Clergy – Laity;--- separation.
Leaders – Followers;--- separation.
Shepherds – Sheep; --- separation.
Jesus said we are all brethren. Mat 23:8
And He, Jesus, is the head of the body, the church. Col 1:18
Who is the head of your church?
If someone says their “title” is not an idol,
just ask them, well if it’s not an idol then just get rid of it,
lay your title down, lay your power and prestige down,
walk away from your reputation, become a brethren,
become “a servant of Christ,”
become “a disciple of Christ.”
Didn’t Jesus make himself of no reputation,
and take upon himself the form of a servant
and humble himself? Php 2:7
Don’t “titles” make a reputation whether you want it or not?
Didn’t Jesus say I receive not honor from men?
Don’t “titles” create honor whether you want it or not?
You are correct, we are too divided. Our titles...
Peace...
You speak truth from the heart, Amos, you must cause God to smile.
We all decided in class that division in the way I am describing is very much a result of our fallen state.
Peace
Rachel
Thanks for dropping by.
I agree with you Amos.
Thanks for dropping by.
Did you once have an office position in a church which you have since laid down?
Yes Rachel,
I was part of a fellowship where I experienced
some power, prestige, prominence, and recognition.
Preached the kingdom of God, prayed healing for the sick,
and cast out demons. Jesus was really real and present.
And I didn't have a title, but I wanted one. Wanted to be a leader.
Eventually they ordained me into the ministry.
So I did a Bible study on pastors, wanted to know what was expected.
Had a rude awakening. It took four or five years.
But I had to tear up my papers. Early 90's
Couldn't find the position of pastor (todays version) in the Bible.
No one with the "title" pastor. No one ordained a pastor.
No Pastors in pulpits preaching to people in pews,
responsible for others learning about and living for Christ,
leading,running the show, team captain, smily face, spiritual giant.
Decided to follow Jesus and not man.
Decided to become a "disciple of Christ" and walk in freedom.
2Co 3:17
Now the Lord is that Spirit:
and where the Spirit of the Lord is,
there is liberty.
Peace...
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