|
As mentioned in the previous heading, we try to be non-denominational. The logical question is, "Why?". The answer is quite simple.
The New Testament teaches in several places, such as Matthew 16:18 and Ephesians 4:4; 1:22-23 for instance, that there is but One Church which Jesus Christ established with His blood. He did not establish those churches which refuse to live by His teachings, wear His name, or do His work. We simply want to be that Church- His Church. By understanding and living the principles taught in the New Testament, Christians become the One Church. We have no desire to be anything else. So, we try to do the things that His Church did and was told to do in the New Testament, and avoid the many other "trappings" of religion with which man has sought to improve upon God's plan. We have no creed but the Bible and no other man-made rules or guidlines. We diligently seek to allow the Bible alone to be our rule of faith and practice.
We also have no denominational organization or headquarters. Christ's Church is governed from heaven by Jesus Christ through the Bible generally, and the New Testament specifically. There is no human organizational structure or office outside of the local congregation. The New Testament specified that local churches were to be locally overseen by Elders/Pastors/Shepherds/Overseers, Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5. These terms are used interchangably in the New Testament. The men who are appointed to shepherd the local church must meet the qualifications specified in order to serve in this capacity. The qualifications are given in 1Timothy 3 and Titus 1. We also have Deacons in the local church because that is what the New Testament teaches, Philippians 1:1. These men serve the congregation as special servants or workers. They too must meet qualifications given in the Text in order to serve, 1Timothy 3.
What makes us non-denominational? We use a descriptive name that was used of the Church in the New Testament which shows allegiance to our spiritual Head, Jesus Christ. We use the Bible only as our guide and avoid man-authored creeds, manuals, catechisms, and disciplines. We try to be scripturally organized on a local congregation level only and therefore have no "headquarters" except heaven itself. And, we attempt to accomplish the spiritual mission of saving souls assigned to the Church in the New Testament rather than being a social or recreational institution. We believe that this is what God planned, intended, and created the Church to be and do.
|