This is the last devotion I have for now. I will be getting back to writing stories and my regular list of writing prompts shortly (with an occasional devotion or reflection).
1 Corinthians 1: 10-17 introduce the term "sectarianism." To my understanding, it is the label that certain branches of Christians use to distinguish themselves from other Christians. For example, Baptists differ from Lutherans, but Calvinites also exist. Mennonite and Mormon deviate out even farther from Christianity. It can get confusing to think about which one is the "right" approach. There are several different versions of the Bible to consider, different interpretations, historical context translating into current time periods, and literal vs. figurative ideas. How are we supposed to get it right? I don't think we ever can.
1 Corinthians 3: 1-14 continue the discussion a little farther. I believe Paul is trying to say that sometimes, our differences don't matter. At least Christians are better than non-believers. We shouldn't judge or condemn others when God is the only rightful person to do this. Can you imagine what could be accomplished if we could all work together? We are on the same "side" after all.
On one hand, the denominations do serve a purpose as they define their doctrinal beliefs.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand, what makes one a Christian is belief in Jesus and that He is who the Bible claims Him to be, so division over denominational differences are just...counterproductive.
Like, for example, those with a "one true church" mentality, teaching that anyone outside their denomination is not going to heaven. I think this is one of the main things that qualifies something as a cult?
There's two, kinda, "sub-catergories" of Baptist--independent Baptist and Southern Baptist. Independent Baptists tend to think all the other denominations are too "worldly", including Southern Baptists. Even though Southern Baptists hold to the same essential doctrines.
The main differences between the two is independent Baptists tend to be things like: KJV-only, against women wearing pants, against modern music (including Christian contemporary and rock), etc. They see themselves as taking a more Biblical approach by standing against these things and not allowing them in their church.
But then, all denominations consider themselves to take the most Biblical approach.
Well, just mentioned the independent Baptists because that is what I'm most familiar with...
And yeah, there's no way anyone's going to get it completely right. It's a good thing our salvation isn't dependent on knowing every iota of correct doctrine.
I completely agree with you! Yeah, it's a great thing!
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