How to Follow Jesus without the Denominations

Following Jesus Without Denominationalism

“that they all may be one”

John 17:20-23

Following Jesus w/o Denominationalism

What is a denomination...?

ØA group of congregations united under a common faith and name, and organized under a single administrative and legal hierarchy AHD

ØChurches joined together under some governing body, that serves to distinguish them from others

ØThere are over 38,000 denominations WCE (2001)

Following Jesus w/o Denominationalism

What is denominationalism...?

ØThe tendency to separate into religious denominations AHD

ØDevotion to denominational principles or interest Webster

ØApproval of denominational division as it exists today MAC

Following Jesus w/o Denominationalism

Why is denominationalism wrong...?

ØIt is un-scriptural Ac 20:17,28; 1Pe 5:1-2

ØIt is anti-scriptural Jn 17:20-23; 1Co 1:10-13; Ep 2:14-16

ØIt is harmful to the cause of Christ Jn 17:21,23

Ø“that the world may believe that You sent Me”

Ø“that the world might know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me”

Following Jesus w/o Denominationalism

The way out of religious division...

ØObey the gospel Mk 16:15-16; Ac 2:38-41,47; Mt 16:18

ØAbide in the apostles’ doctrine Ac 2:42; 1Co 4:17; 14:37

ØSimply be a Christian Ac 11:26; 1Pe 4:16

ØAvoid denominational doctrines, names 2Jn 9

ØFind a simple church of Christ Ro 16:16; Ac 2:42

ØMaintain the unity of the Spirit Ep 4:3-6

ØHave the mind of Christ Ph 2:1-5

Following Jesus Without Denominationalism

Will we heed the prayer of Jesus?

John 17:20-23