Churches and Denominations?

[misskayanne]

I currently attend a non-denominational Christian church. I've been attending said church off and on for about 10 years. I've started feeling uncomfortable there the last few years. It is a very large church with numerous locations. It's the kind of church that feels like a concert on Sundays. My unease is that I have never heard the pastors (both male and female) preach raw truth from God's word. I feel like every service is a like a positive pep talk. It's definitely always a sugar-coated, feel-good message. I met someone about a year or so ago that is a Reformed Christian (Calvinist)...I told him what church I attend and he looked it up and listened to a few sermons online. He was quick to tell me that the pastor of my church was a prosperity preacher. I've always considered the likes of Joel Osteen to be a prosperity preacher, but not my pastor...until I really started listening. He was absolutely right.

In addition, and not to get political, but our church is definitely divided when it comes to politics. I feel like anyone following the Word of God should know what is right and what is wrong (homosexuality, abortion, etc). I believe that our church is divided, because the pastors are not discussing these topics and preaching the truth from the Bible. I feel like our church is too busy trying to be entertaining and politically correct. I also know many members who are unmarried and cohabiting with their partners (to name just one example of on-going sin in the church). I just sense that sin is running rampant there and everyone just turns a blind eye.

I don't think the church I attend is all bad. I have heard a few good sermons and have met some truly wonderful people there. But I just don't feel like it is the best church for my young son and I to hear God's Word on Sundays.

Any way, my point is I want to find a new church. I was raised non-denomination Christian, so I don't really know anything else. Although I will say my pastor in the church I grew up in was NOT like my current church. He was truly a man of God and I had much respect for him. So I know not all non-denominational churches are "bad." But with so many denominations, I'm having a hard time deciding on the right one to choose. How does anyone know that their church is teaching truth? There are so many denominations, interpretations, opinions, etc.

I think I've narrowed down my core beliefs to be most aligned with Southern Baptist, and will actually be attending a small Southern Baptist church in my town this weekend to check it out. I read their "what we believe" page and I agreed with everything they wrote...including that marriage is between a man and a woman, that transgenderism is a sin, and that pastors and elders should be men who meet specific requirements set forth in the Bible. Being that I am currently a member of a church that seems to have openly adopted feminism (and I don't think they discuss anything controversial on their website, such as the definition of Biblical marriage, etc), this was refreshing to see. But I'm curious about Reformed Christianity as well...although there are a few things regarding their beliefs that I'm not sure I agree with. How do you all decide what church to attend? How do you know that their teachings are perfectly aligned with the Bible and being interpreted correctly? Is Southern Baptist a good denomination to be a part of?

I honestly get anxiety trying to sift through all the interpretations, opinions, etc regarding the Bible. I just want to hear TRUTH when I attend church. I want to a attend a church that honors God.

 

[obedienttogod]

You seem to be in a seeker friendly church setting. There is no real preaching because they are not trying to condemn anyone or allow God to work. I knew of community churches that ended up having 6k or more and I never heard 1 sermon actually addressing sin. This was Mesa, Az. These churches just boom from the housing boom, and you end up with some kind of philosophy that has no direct relationship to Christ.

 

[obedienttogod]

And being non denominational is not hard to match up to. You know how you were baptized and believe, so you find churches that baptize and believe as you do and you attend them until one feels like home. Your praise and worship will change so best to match what you know to churches and then try them.

 

[KD]

I currently attend a non-denominational Christian church. I've been attending said church off and on for about 10 years. I've started feeling uncomfortable there the last few years. It is a very large church with numerous locations. It's the kind of church that feels like a concert on Sundays. My unease is that I have never heard the pastors (both male and female) preach raw truth from God's word. I feel like every service is a like a positive pep talk. It's definitely always a sugar-coated, feel-good message. I met someone about a year or so ago that is a Reformed Christian (Calvinist)...I told him what church I attend and he looked it up and listened to a few sermons online. He was quick to tell me that the pastor of my church was a prosperity preacher. I've always considered the likes of Joel Osteen to be a prosperity preacher, but not my pastor...until I really started listening. He was absolutely right.

In addition, and not to get political, but our church is definitely divided when it comes to politics. I feel like anyone following the Word of God should know what is right and what is wrong (homosexuality, abortion, etc). I believe that our church is divided, because the pastors are not discussing these topics and preaching the truth from the Bible. I feel like our church is too busy trying to be entertaining and politically correct. I also know many members who are unmarried and cohabiting with their partners (to name just one example of on-going sin in the church). I just sense that sin is running rampant there and everyone just turns a blind eye.

I don't think the church I attend is all bad. I have heard a few good sermons and have met some truly wonderful people there. But I just don't feel like it is the best church for my young son and I to hear God's Word on Sundays.

Any way, my point is I want to find a new church. I was raised non-denomination Christian, so I don't really know anything else. Although I will say my pastor in the church I grew up in was NOT like my current church. He was truly a man of God and I had much respect for him. So I know not all non-denominational churches are "bad." But with so many denominations, I'm having a hard time deciding on the right one to choose. How does anyone know that their church is teaching truth? There are so many denominations, interpretations, opinions, etc.

I think I've narrowed down my core beliefs to be most aligned with Southern Baptist, and will actually be attending a small Southern Baptist church in my town this weekend to check it out. I read their "what we believe" page and I agreed with everything they wrote...including that marriage is between a man and a woman, that transgenderism is a sin, and that pastors and elders should be men who meet specific requirements set forth in the Bible. Being that I am currently a member of a church that seems to have openly adopted feminism (and I don't think they discuss anything controversial on their website, such as the definition of Biblical marriage, etc), this was refreshing to see. But I'm curious about Reformed Christianity as well...although there are a few things regarding their beliefs that I'm not sure I agree with. How do you all decide what church to attend? How do you know that their teachings are perfectly aligned with the Bible and being interpreted correctly? Is Southern Baptist a good denomination to be a part of?

I honestly get anxiety trying to sift through all the interpretations, opinions, etc regarding the Bible. I just want to hear TRUTH when I attend church. I want to a attend a church that honors God.

Pray for guidance, visit a few in your area, ask the Lord to reveal where you need to be.

I think you’d be hard pressed to find a church that is perfect or that you agree fully with everything you hear. Test the teachings by the scripture. That’s the main thing, is the Bible taught.

I understand it can be overwhelming with so many denominations. We started going to our church about 2 years ago. We had to visit a few and once we found our new church home we just kinda knew. I prefer smaller churches where you can actual meet the pastor and get to know folks and do life together.

 

[Lanolin]

I agree smaller churches are better for closer fellowship. As for denoms I dont pay that much attention to them theres doesnt seem to be any 'perfect' church and each is unique in it own way.
Although i find that Reformed churches are kind of the similar to presbyterian churches and I would say they tend to be stricter because they dont allow one to sit on the fence about faith.
They also place much more emphasis on God first rather than our own choices and actions, but in some respects its like as a congregation they can be lazy and expect God to do everything while believers just dont lift a finger. One needs to love the Lord not just with all our minds, but also with all our strength, its not just an intellectual exercise or philosophy.

This just what I've noticed though it may not apply to every church under that name.
As for choosing a church pray and ask God which church He wants you in and then follow his leading. Take your bible with you when you go, talk to the pastor, ask questions.

The bigger churches place much emphaisis on evangelism but its like a plant nursery soon you will start growing and want to be planted somewhere permanent where you can spread your roots, and bear fruit not crowded in with all the other babes in Christ.

 

[KelbyofGod]

MissKayanne,
I appreciate your both-sides evaluation.

You said you want to actually hear the truth when you go to church. If true, this is important.

You are in a favorable situation. You see the complexity in front of you, and you don't know the right move. My recommendation would be to put the decision on hold (so to speak) and instead of spending your effort seeking a church, invest that same or greater time and effort specifically seeking God. Purposefully read your bible. Spend time in prayer, sincerely trying to ask the things you've long felt you should ask...whether good for someone else, or for understanding etc for yourself. Ultimately church is to provide opportunity to do those things I just mentioned, as well as a few others like thanking, praising, and singing to him. Please think for a few moments if God would get angry if you were to purposefully spend that time directly with him as you seek his face until he reveals to you a church that preaches truth. He really is still God and is willing to lead you if you're willing to put himself as clearly most important with or without a "church".
Love on him. Thank him. Don't be in too much of a hurry to leave his presence. Wait on him. Let him show himself as God in your home, car and prayer closet. Ask him to guide you to the right group/church with whom to worship, and he will certainly guide you.

Love in Jesus,
Kelby

 

[obedienttogod]

1) I like upbeat music, so the Praise and Worship better be alive and well connected.

2) The message of Grace should not be a daily topic matter to preach (make it simple) The MERCY God chose to have upon the Jews by sacrificing His Son, was equally the same in Grace given to the Gentiles. It was never meant to be a license to sin!!

3) I like to/my preaching done with a little skip in the step

4) Baptized in the church baptistry, the lake, the creek, or someones bath tub...God is not restricted or confined anywhere.

5) My kind of church lasted about 2 1/2 - 3 hours. When I was a child, I remember the old men grumbling about missing the first half of the football game. Those were the good ole days.



Make yourself a list of things (^) you like or need to have in a gathering of believers. Then your spirit, the Spirit which is connected to both You and God (the Holy Spirit), will let you know which is the one you need to be at.

 

[Adstar]

I currently attend a non-denominational Christian church. I've been attending said church off and on for about 10 years. I've started feeling uncomfortable there the last few years. It is a very large church with numerous locations. It's the kind of church that feels like a concert on Sundays. My unease is that I have never heard the pastors (both male and female) preach raw truth from God's word. I feel like every service is a like a positive pep talk. It's definitely always a sugar-coated, feel-good message. I met someone about a year or so ago that is a Reformed Christian (Calvinist)...I told him what church I attend and he looked it up and listened to a few sermons online. He was quick to tell me that the pastor of my church was a prosperity preacher. I've always considered the likes of Joel Osteen to be a prosperity preacher, but not my pastor...until I really started listening. He was absolutely right.

In addition, and not to get political, but our church is definitely divided when it comes to politics. I feel like anyone following the Word of God should know what is right and what is wrong (homosexuality, abortion, etc). I believe that our church is divided, because the pastors are not discussing these topics and preaching the truth from the Bible. I feel like our church is too busy trying to be entertaining and politically correct. I also know many members who are unmarried and cohabiting with their partners (to name just one example of on-going sin in the church). I just sense that sin is running rampant there and everyone just turns a blind eye.

I don't think the church I attend is all bad. I have heard a few good sermons and have met some truly wonderful people there. But I just don't feel like it is the best church for my young son and I to hear God's Word on Sundays.

Any way, my point is I want to find a new church. I was raised non-denomination Christian, so I don't really know anything else. Although I will say my pastor in the church I grew up in was NOT like my current church. He was truly a man of God and I had much respect for him. So I know not all non-denominational churches are "bad." But with so many denominations, I'm having a hard time deciding on the right one to choose. How does anyone know that their church is teaching truth? There are so many denominations, interpretations, opinions, etc.

I think I've narrowed down my core beliefs to be most aligned with Southern Baptist, and will actually be attending a small Southern Baptist church in my town this weekend to check it out. I read their "what we believe" page and I agreed with everything they wrote...including that marriage is between a man and a woman, that transgenderism is a sin, and that pastors and elders should be men who meet specific requirements set forth in the Bible. Being that I am currently a member of a church that seems to have openly adopted feminism (and I don't think they discuss anything controversial on their website, such as the definition of Biblical marriage, etc), this was refreshing to see. But I'm curious about Reformed Christianity as well...although there are a few things regarding their beliefs that I'm not sure I agree with. How do you all decide what church to attend? How do you know that their teachings are perfectly aligned with the Bible and being interpreted correctly? Is Southern Baptist a good denomination to be a part of?

I honestly get anxiety trying to sift through all the interpretations, opinions, etc regarding the Bible. I just want to hear TRUTH when I attend church. I want to a attend a church that honors God.

My advice to you is to be more focused on reading Gods Word and taking in the true Gospel message that it contains.. Then you will be far more knowledgeable in assessing different churches you may visit..

In the end the most important thing is that you are personally in the right position in regards to God and His will for you.. On the day of judgement it will be you standing alone with God.. We are not going to face God in denominational groups.. So the most important thing is what YOU believe and attest is truth and what YOU trust in..

 

[noblenut]

i use to be presbyterian and when i was young they had a good minister, but he left and someone else not as good came, and then he left and we got an anti-christ for a minister so i fled and been going to the church of Christ since, i went there because my mother was going to groups there and it was just up the road and has been the best church i have ever been to with real wisdom and understanding, that is in the land of aus so i don't know what they are like elsewhere, but the only way u can know if u belong to a church is go the and listen to the service and meet the people, good luck with your search and hope u find where u belong.

 

[eternally-gratefull]

I attend non denomination also, sadly there are so many types, and your church sould like alot of new churches rising up.

If you have a firm foundation, look for a church who teaches the one true gospel, then find one that has a firm biblical background, and if possible, one who has a good discipleship program.

I am a former baptist, they had good scripture, but had no discipleship, so although i had alot of knowledge, i had no idea on how to use it or how to be accountable.

Most churches do not resemble the NT church anyway, and as you were shown, you will not find a perfect church, best thing to do is pray, and i will pray for you.

 

[Nehemiah6]

How does anyone know that their church is teaching truth? There are so many denominations, interpretations, opinions, etc.

1. You need to study the Bible and determine the truth from it, not from any other source.

2. Whatever church you wish to attend (after seeing what is happening in your church), you should (a) take a close look at their Statement of Faith and (b) attend a few services to see what happens -- is the true Gospel preached and is Bible doctrine taught?

3. Although your Reformed Christian friend determined that your church is off the track, Reformed Theology (Calvinism) is not the true Gospel either. So that will not be a step forward. If you are not familiar with the Calvinism debate read this E-book. https://www.wayoflife.org/free_ebooks/the_calvinism_debate.php

4. Mega churches and charismatic churches may not be suitable either, but there are other non-denominational churches which may be still biblical.

5. Find a church which uses the King James Bible exclusively. Modern bible versions are corrupt and do affect doctrine. You will find quite a few here who will protest, but the truth is the truth.

 

[pottersclay]

Unfortunately I found that in most churches the importance of the pews being occupied over rule the need for sound doctrine.
New age theology along with entertainment has snuck it's way into the church.
Gods the only one who can add to the church but sadly some believe the more the people the more successful the ministry.
As I've said before I'd rather be surrounded by a handful of the faithful than to be in the crowd of skeptics.

 

[obedienttogod]

Unfortunately I found that in most churches the importance of the pews being occupied over rule the need for sound doctrine.
New age theology along with entertainment has snuck it's way into the church.
Gods the only one who can add to the church but sadly some believe the more the people the more successful the ministry.
As I've said before I'd rather be surrounded by a handful of the faithful than to be in the crowd of skeptics.

In time, when it won't be safe to use the internet (if you are a believer), it will become like your last statement "I'd rather be surrounded by a handful of the faithful than to be in the crowd of skeptics." During the Tribulation, the longer people survive, they will survive by this very setting (handful of the faithful in private settings). Can you imagine how intense your prayers will be during that time period? Every day is a literal day of survival by the Grace of God, then!!

 

[SpoonJuly]

In time, when it won't be safe to use the internet (if you are a believer), it will become like your last statement "I'd rather be surrounded by a handful of the faithful than to be in the crowd of skeptics." During the Tribulation, the longer people survive, they will survive by this very setting (handful of the faithful in private settings). Can you imagine how intense your prayers will be during that time period? Every day is a literal day of survival by the Grace of God, then!!

I would suggest that everyone find that small group today while there is still time.
And if you live in a big city, find a way to leave today.
It is near folks, very near.

 

[obedienttogod]

I would suggest that everyone find that small group today while there is still time.
And if you live in a big city, find a way to leave today.
It is near folks, very near.

When Trump got elected, my attention to detail suddenly peaked. It was way out of norm that it just went against everything we basically knew from both sides. And it got quiet. Then Trump declared Jerusalem the Capitol of Israel. While all along, Mueller just pecked and pecked and pecked. Enough confusion has united the people. Trouble with that, it means they will win the election. And they have somewhere around 30 candidates running for president. That's 30 people we are not aware about, and with the people united against Trump, they would vote the antichrist in in a heartbeat!!

 

[misskayanne]

When Trump got elected, my attention to detail suddenly peaked. It was way out of norm that it just went against everything we basically knew from both sides. And it got quiet. Then Trump declared Jerusalem the Capitol of Israel. While all along, Mueller just pecked and pecked and pecked. Enough confusion has united the people. Trouble with that, it means they will win the election. And they have somewhere around 30 candidates running for president. That's 30 people we are not aware about, and with the people united against Trump, they would vote the antichrist in in a heartbeat!!

Same. I've never paid a lot of attention to politics until this last election. I'm concerned about the direction our country, and the world, is headed. Absolutely people will eventually vote in the antichrist. It is just a matter of time. I'm not sure how soon, but the day is certainly coming.

 

[misskayanne]

I would suggest that everyone find that small group today while there is still time.
And if you live in a big city, find a way to leave today.
It is near folks, very near.

I live in a fairly small town, but I live in California, right outside of Sacramento. I've been wanting to leave for a while. At the rate this country is going, I feel like California is the worst place to be...

 

[misskayanne]

1. You need to study the Bible and determine the truth from it, not from any other source.

2. Whatever church you wish to attend (after seeing what is happening in your church), you should (a) take a close look at their Statement of Faith and (b) attend a few services to see what happens -- is the true Gospel preached and is Bible doctrine taught?

3. Although your Reformed Christian friend determined that your church is off the track, Reformed Theology (Calvinism) is not the true Gospel either. So that will not be a step forward. If you are not familiar with the Calvinism debate read this E-book. https://www.wayoflife.org/free_ebooks/the_calvinism_debate.php

4. Mega churches and charismatic churches may not be suitable either, but there are other non-denominational churches which may be still biblical.

5. Find a church which uses the King James Bible exclusively. Modern bible versions are corrupt and do affect doctrine. You will find quite a few here who will protest, but the truth is the truth.

Thank you for your advice! I appreciate the literature you've shared regarding Calvinism.

 

[misskayanne]

MissKayanne,
I appreciate your both-sides evaluation.

You said you want to actually hear the truth when you go to church. If true, this is important.

You are in a favorable situation. You see the complexity in front of you, and you don't know the right move. My recommendation would be to put the decision on hold (so to speak) and instead of spending your effort seeking a church, invest that same or greater time and effort specifically seeking God. Purposefully read your bible. Spend time in prayer, sincerely trying to ask the things you've long felt you should ask...whether good for someone else, or for understanding etc for yourself. Ultimately church is to provide opportunity to do those things I just mentioned, as well as a few others like thanking, praising, and singing to him. Please think for a few moments if God would get angry if you were to purposefully spend that time directly with him as you seek his face until he reveals to you a church that preaches truth. He really is still God and is willing to lead you if you're willing to put himself as clearly most important with or without a "church".
Love on him. Thank him. Don't be in too much of a hurry to leave his presence. Wait on him. Let him show himself as God in your home, car and prayer closet. Ask him to guide you to the right group/church with whom to worship, and he will certainly guide you.

Love in Jesus,
Kelby

Thank you, this is good advice. I will certainly seek God's guidance before making a decision.

 

[Hevosmies]

Its a desperate situation in some cities and areas with churches going apostate.

PRay God will lead you into the right one! END TIMES i believe are here.