The term Christianity is definitely not a single faith. In fact, many thousands of different churches operate under the broad definition of Christianity. Many formal churches consist of thousands of congregations and others cater for specific languages or regions. Some churches wield immense power. The fact is that many believers do not want to be members of a formal congregation and they prefer to attend 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.
There has been a noticeable move from formal denominations to independent congregations all over the world. Religious experts ascribe this move to the fact that people are growing tired of the inability of the formal churches to cater to the needs of their members. Former members say that the formal denominations do not take modern circumstances and lifestyles into consideration. They want to worship in less formal places.
Many others move to independent churches because they feel that the formal denominations are condemning them, judging them and even persecuting them. Single mothers, gays, those in relationships without being married are just some examples of people that would rather worship at places where they are not judged. They do not shun the authority of God, but they shun the attitude of formal denominations.
Theological experts have warned that Christians need to be very careful before becoming members of independent congregations. They say that many of these churches focus only on those issues that are pleasant and that promises people eternal life and success on earth. They warn that the entire Word of God must be represented in the ministering offered to the congregation, including issues that may be unpleasant but that are part of the teachings of the Bible nevertheless.
It is sadly also true that some independent congregations have cause much bitterness and even harm. In most such cases the entire congregation focus upon the teachings of an individual that is both a good speaker and charismatic. Such pastors are intent only upon enriching themselves and to build a personal base of power over others. No pastor should ever ask his congregation to donate all their worldly goods, for example.
Many Christians want to move to a place of worship where they will feel more welcome and comfortable. Because it is such a personal issue, it is probably better to investigate a few congregations before making any decisions. By attending services at several congregations it may be possible to gauge the focus and doctrine of the congregation. Talking to existing members can also be valuable.
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.
There has been a noticeable move from formal denominations to independent congregations all over the world. Religious experts ascribe this move to the fact that people are growing tired of the inability of the formal churches to cater to the needs of their members. Former members say that the formal denominations do not take modern circumstances and lifestyles into consideration. They want to worship in less formal places.
Many others move to independent churches because they feel that the formal denominations are condemning them, judging them and even persecuting them. Single mothers, gays, those in relationships without being married are just some examples of people that would rather worship at places where they are not judged. They do not shun the authority of God, but they shun the attitude of formal denominations.
Theological experts have warned that Christians need to be very careful before becoming members of independent congregations. They say that many of these churches focus only on those issues that are pleasant and that promises people eternal life and success on earth. They warn that the entire Word of God must be represented in the ministering offered to the congregation, including issues that may be unpleasant but that are part of the teachings of the Bible nevertheless.
It is sadly also true that some independent congregations have cause much bitterness and even harm. In most such cases the entire congregation focus upon the teachings of an individual that is both a good speaker and charismatic. Such pastors are intent only upon enriching themselves and to build a personal base of power over others. No pastor should ever ask his congregation to donate all their worldly goods, for example.
Many Christians want to move to a place of worship where they will feel more welcome and comfortable. Because it is such a personal issue, it is probably better to investigate a few congregations before making any decisions. By attending services at several congregations it may be possible to gauge the focus and doctrine of the congregation. Talking to existing members can also be valuable.
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.
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