Six Reasons Why Denominations are a Good Thing

There are apparently thousands of evangelical Christian denominations. Most people are familiar with only a few - Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, etc. There are those who have ecumenical goals and are "non-denominational." But even they are a denomination in themselves.  Because of this diversity in evangelicalism, it is not uncommon to hear indictments that these churches are less than unified, loving and/or tolerant of one another. Denominationalism seems to be the glaring blemish on the face of Protestantism.

I don't think it has to be this way. Certainly, there are blemishes; but blemishes are everywhere in a fallen world. This doesn't make the blemishes right, but only admits the reality that the Church survives as a fellowship of saved sinners. This being said, blemishes don't have to eclipse the beauties that lie within the realm of diverse denominational Christianity. Just because a person is a sinner, doesn't mean that we cannot also call them, in another sense, a saint.

Being an ordained minister in the PCA, I live with the reality that I am not ordained in, say, the Baptist church. When I speak with ministers of other denominations, there are differences between us - even disagreements. We know this. It is the truth of our religious situation. I am of the strong opinion that we can use our differences in these matters as wonderful opportunities to love. Yes, the verse still rings true for us, "they shall know we are Christians by our love."

I am implying that denominationalism is loving for many reasons. Here are just a few of them.

First, denominationalism helps us to know each other better. Knowledge is often the best means to deepening our love for others. When I know what denomination my brother or sister is a part of, I immediately place him or her within a categorical sphere. I don't think this is necessarily a bad thing if done with love. It is good for us to know where we stand. By knowing, we can both make an informed decision when standing with one another in love.

Second, denominationalism reminds us that a person doesn't have to be right in order to be loved. This truth should ring every Christian ear, as well as flow frequently from every Christian tongue. It is a testimony to a person's Christ-likeness that being right is not a prerequisite for being loved. When denominations willingly embrace one another in love, we embody this truth.

Third, denominationalism protects us from being blindsided by off-the-wall beliefs. A person who will not side with common and clear denominational standards is like a knuckle ball pitcher. You don't really know what to expect. This is simply less than loving. Helping others manage expectations is one of the best things we can do for another person. Most people don't enjoy surprises. Denominationalism eliminates the anxiety associated with the possibility of a theological mine blowing up in your face.

Fourth, denominationalism is a constant call for communal humility. Sure, we may have a healthy level of pride in our church's standards; but for the most part, being at odds with another image bearer, on any big or small point of doctrine, should humble us. Humility is a breading ground for love.

Fifth, if we move forward in humility, we can become stronger in our Christian convictions. When someone I love believes something else, I am more encouraged to consider their words and worldview. We are not persuaded to believe what they believe in order to be in relationship with them (we've already established this doesn't have to happen); but out of respect for them, we listen and value what they believe. When considering their point of view through the lens of Scripture (our only unquestionable authority), we can either stand firm in our convictions, or we can stand corrected - and this without a war, because of love.

Finally, denominationalism should bring us all to hope in heaven. Denominations are only necessary in a fallen world. But one day the world will not be fallen. We will not be fallen. Therefore, denoms will be wholly unnecessary. At that time, everyone who has simply placed their faith in the risen Savior, Jesus Christ, will live without sin and disagreement together, forever. Let the Church say, "Amen."

There are plenty of issues I did not address in this post. I simply don't have the time or space for an exhaustive work on the epistemological complexities of denominational Christianity. My purpose is only to state, and show, that denominationalism doesn't have to be only a blemish on the face of Protestant Christianity. And that it can be a wonderful opportunity for Christians to show off the love of our common Lord.