Denominationalism
Yesterday, I witnessed some benefits of denominationalism. Yes, I know that structure and, dare I say, authority, can be a viewed as a bad thing because people have an eglitarian notion of ecclesiology, but I do think there are benefits to denominationalism.
I will list a few.
1. Accountability: There is a sense of accountability in matters of practice and doctrine. If I, as a denominational pastor, begin preaching things which are contrary to the denomination I belong to, I can be held accountable to that. For me, being a member of the Presbyterian Church In America, I would first be accountable to the congregation, then the elders, then presbytery. If there is ever the issue of a heresy, or unorthodox teaching rising, it can be dealt with, and by more than just one church. This is a good thing because there is indication in Acts that when faced with important decisions, leaders from the churches came together, not just one church.
2. Structure: There is a definite way of getting things done in a macro-sense, as well as a micro-sense. Churches are able to band together in order to plant other churches, or have a network for pulpit filling, as well as a network of pastors and leaders with whom they have a commonality. (I am not suggesting only "hanging out" with likeminded people)
3. Identity: Of course there will be various flavors of "church" within any denomination, running from a contemporary feel to more traditional feel of worship, to the styles of ministry and so on. However, being in a denomination does tend to add to the identity of a local congregation. One can look at a phone book, select the denominational heading of a church and have a fairly reasonable idea of the teachings to expect.
4. Resources: Missionaries can be taken care of better with a larger support base. (that is not to say that a local church would not have specific missionaries they support) There is the opportunity to band together for large causes in the face of disaster, or in the outworking of a missional strategy, domestic and international. Also, denominations can provide a good way for pastors and others who work within the church to share a retirement fund or plan, and have it managed professionally, and in a group fashion. And there is the benefit of being able to develop Sunday School and other teaching materials for publication and usage by the churches within the denomination, which will enable in training and knowledge.
Needless to say, nothing is perfect, and maybe I can post some downsides to denominationalism like politics and so forth, but I really believe that it is an effecient, Biblical way of operating.
I will list a few.
1. Accountability: There is a sense of accountability in matters of practice and doctrine. If I, as a denominational pastor, begin preaching things which are contrary to the denomination I belong to, I can be held accountable to that. For me, being a member of the Presbyterian Church In America, I would first be accountable to the congregation, then the elders, then presbytery. If there is ever the issue of a heresy, or unorthodox teaching rising, it can be dealt with, and by more than just one church. This is a good thing because there is indication in Acts that when faced with important decisions, leaders from the churches came together, not just one church.
2. Structure: There is a definite way of getting things done in a macro-sense, as well as a micro-sense. Churches are able to band together in order to plant other churches, or have a network for pulpit filling, as well as a network of pastors and leaders with whom they have a commonality. (I am not suggesting only "hanging out" with likeminded people)
3. Identity: Of course there will be various flavors of "church" within any denomination, running from a contemporary feel to more traditional feel of worship, to the styles of ministry and so on. However, being in a denomination does tend to add to the identity of a local congregation. One can look at a phone book, select the denominational heading of a church and have a fairly reasonable idea of the teachings to expect.
4. Resources: Missionaries can be taken care of better with a larger support base. (that is not to say that a local church would not have specific missionaries they support) There is the opportunity to band together for large causes in the face of disaster, or in the outworking of a missional strategy, domestic and international. Also, denominations can provide a good way for pastors and others who work within the church to share a retirement fund or plan, and have it managed professionally, and in a group fashion. And there is the benefit of being able to develop Sunday School and other teaching materials for publication and usage by the churches within the denomination, which will enable in training and knowledge.
Needless to say, nothing is perfect, and maybe I can post some downsides to denominationalism like politics and so forth, but I really believe that it is an effecient, Biblical way of operating.
posted by Bobby's blog at 3:03 PM
3 Comments:
You brought up some interesting and supportive facts. I fully agree with your thoughts. Looking forward to reading more.
Neal
Good list. This is a good complement to my list on an almost identical topic. I'm curious-- what occurred that caused you to reflect on this? Some context for the list would be helpful.
My context is from going to a Presbyery meeting the other day, plus conversations I have with other pastors and seminary friends. And also observations of other traditions.
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