How do non-denominational Christians pick a church?

[1beleevr]

And aren’t we glad Jesus looks on our hearts and not the name on the door of the Church we attend? And if we don’t take Jesus with us when we go to Church the name on the door isn’t going to matter.

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That is so right; a church which doesn’t have Jesus, is just a building!And we do have a dess code at our church; we are to be clothed with Christ:thumbsup:

 

[Xavierlives]

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As for myself, personally, I don’t believe there will be denominations in Heaven; no need:thumbsup:All who are in Christ, cloaked in His righteousness, will be as one family, saints forever praising and worshipping God! What would be the point of having a religious title in eternity?

lol… that was my point. I did not mean there was deliniation in Heaven like “Hey, there is Frank the Catholic and John the Baptist” (hehe! I had to throw that in there).

 

[1beleevr]

lol… that was my point. I did not mean there was deliniation in Heaven like “Hey, there is Frank the Catholic and John the Baptist” (hehe! I had to throw that in there).

]

ROTFL; I get it! But, I would be willing to bet that there are people who believe that they will be married up there, and still be in their respective denominations

 

[MariaG]

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I pray that you will realize your goal:thumbsup: The title of this thread asks how we non-denoms pick a church, and it made me think about denominatons and religious sects in general. Was talking with a friend at work about denominations and their differences. I said,"not to be rude, but I really do not concern myself with what denomination a person aligns himself/herself with. A person is not defined by what religious title they claim, but rather who they are in Christ. I believe this is how God sees you! He does not see Mormon, catholic, Baptist, etc., rather He sees your heart! So don’t get too wrapped up in having the name of a denomination in front of your name!

Thank you. And I know God doesn’t see the denom, I just wish more people wouldn’t either!

Xavierlives:
He sees you as saved or not. I think there will be plenty of Catholics and Baptists and a wide variety of “denominations” in heaven. Other religions are another subject.

There is a joke that went somewhat along these lines. Peter was showing a “new arrival” around heaven. As he got to one area, he told the new arrival that he needed to be quiet over here. When asked why, Peter replied that was where the (insert denomination here, ususally baptist or Catholic) were and the Catholics didn’t think anyone else was here but them.

Your sister in Christ,
Maria

 

[Xavierlives]

]

ROTFL; I get it! But, I would be willing to bet that there are people who believe that they will be married up there, and still be in their respective denominations

Well I think the problem is, most faiths believe their way is the only way, and some denominations believe their denomination is the only way. This is a bunch of hooey. You only need to read Hebrews 11 to see that. The problem is people anchor their faith in a fashion so that they can say “Well I know I am saved and if you don’t think like me than whoa is you!”

I am under the conclusion that Jesus is the judge. Outside of myself, I can thankfully say it is not my job to say who is going to heaven. I am amazed his grace extends to even me, because while I am unworthy of redemption, he still saved me. I know that grace extends to everyone, but they must act on it outside of the confines of some organization or building or denomination.

 

[1beleevr]

Well I think the problem is, most faiths believe their way is the only way, and some denominations believe their denomination is the only way. This is a bunch of hooey. You only need to read Hebrews 11 to see that. The problem is people anchor their faith in a fashion so that they can say “Well I know I am saved and if you don’t think like me than whoa is you!”

I am under the conclusion that Jesus is the judge. Outside of myself, I can thankfully say it is not my job to say who is going to heaven. I am amazed his grace extends to even me, because while I am unworthy of redemption, he still saved me. I know that grace extends to everyone, but they must act on it outside of the confines of some organization or building or denomination.

]

The righteous and always fair Judge! And I believe that although we are lesser in importance than Jesus, we are no less valuable in God’s eyes! If we weren’t, Christ would not have gone to the Cross! And I also believe that if I were the only person on earth, He still would have gone to the Cross! There’s no need to take a denominational title with you,“ashes to ashes, dust to dust.”

 

[1beleevr]

We all should be united serving Him! It can bring such joy when one uses the gifts given to us for His glory.

That can be true. Sometimes Catholic Christians stop trying to do things with other Christians because they get tired of getting slapped in the face when non-Catholics try to “save” the Catholic Christians, and pull us out of the Catholic Church. Some just prefer to do “Catholic” charities and events where they are opening themselves, sharing the love of Christ so they do not have to deal with our separated brethren who do not consider us to be their brothers and sisters in 'Christ.

I always have to tell myself that the servant is never greater than the master. As He was rejected, so will I be. But it still hurts. Alot more when a fellow Christian slaps at you than a non-believer.

Our community has a service for all to come and worship Him with all churches. I stopped going to it for a couple of reasons.

The final community service I attended was held at the Catholic Church, there were very few people except Catholics who showed up. This was in stark contrast to the ones held at Protestant Churches which were packed. One of the pastors, a very good man of the Church of Christ, stood up and said he was there but he could loose his job over his actions. Many of his parish do not consider Catholics to be Christians and refused to go and pray with us. I had always felt the uncomfortableness of others when they learned which Church I attended, but that was just the final straw.

I should push myself to go again because it does give people the wrong impression, like you have (had?) about Catholics, but it is very hard.

It hurts. Alot. Everytime.

Your sister in Christ,
Maria

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It would be interesting and enlightening to attend a community prayer event, involving Christians of differig beliefs! I wonder, would everyone pray their own way’ and would it be okay if someone decided that there is no wrong way to pray?

 

[Xavierlives]

]

The righteous and always fair Judge! And I believe that although we are lesser in importance than Jesus, we are no less valuable in God’s eyes! If we weren’t, Christ would not have gone to the Cross! And I also believe that if I were the only person on earth, He still would have gone to the Cross! There’s no need to take a denominational title with you,“ashes to ashes, dust to dust.”

I am not saying we shouldn’t shine the light of righteousness into the world of darkness. I am saying, Christ will be sitting on the judgment seat as a blameless sacrifice. Only he can say that. And yes, absolutely, God loves us. For God so loved the world. Everyone is important to him but not everyone will make the right choice and only the judge can enact judgment, not someone sitting in the gallery.

 

[Xavierlives]

]

It would be interesting and enlightening to attend a community prayer event, involving Christians of differig beliefs! I wonder, would everyone pray their own way’ and would it be okay if someone decided that there is no wrong way to pray?

Personally, if you have a made a profession of faith in Jesus, than I think there isn’t much need for me to share anything else with you (unless that faith also includes… err… other prophets).

 

[PRmerger]

Personally, if you have a made a profession of faith in Jesus, than I think there isn’t much need for me to share anything else with you (unless that faith also includes… err… other prophets).

I think we as Christians must share the *entire *Word of God with others–believers and non-believers alike!

For do not even the demons have faith? [BIBLEDRB]James 2:19[/BIBLEDRB]

 

[Xavierlives]

I think we as Christians must share the *entire *Word of God with others–believers and non-believers alike!

For do not even the demons have faith? [BIBLEDRB]James 2:19[/BIBLEDRB]

I really need to choose my words more carefully or read what I post from a variety of directions. I did not intend my words to mean that we shouldn’t share our faith with fellow Christians. I mean the presentation of the Gospel is likely condensed. I have no problem sharing how I came to Christ, but when a person says they are a believer, I recognize we likely have common ground in Christ. I was also trying to acknowledge that the Mormons would say we have common ground in Christ, but I would still want to extend the Gospel message to them.

Also, when I read James, it says, “even the demons believe” or “the devils also believe” (as you posted). Belief and faith really are two separate and distinct characteristics.

 

[PRmerger]

I really need to choose my words more carefully or read what I post from a variety of directions. I did not intend my words to mean that we shouldn’t share our faith with fellow Christians. I mean the presentation of the Gospel is likely condensed.

I think I understood what you meant, Xavier. I do, however, take issue with your assessment that it’s okay to disagree on God’s Revelation and Divine Word, provided that someone professes Jesus as Lord.

The Scriptures do not teach that, thus it’s wrong to proclaim this.

Also, when I read James, it says, “even the demons believe” or “the devils also believe” (as you posted). Belief and faith really are two separate and distinct characteristics.

Indeed. Faith, like love, has multiple facets.

 

[Xavierlives]

I think I understood what you meant, Xavier. I do, however, take issue with your assessment that it’s okay to disagree on God’s Revelation and Divine Word, provided that someone professes Jesus as Lord.

The Scriptures do not teach that, thus it’s wrong to proclaim this.

Indeed. Faith, like love, has multiple facets.

Oh, so you are taking issue with my Hebrews 11 comment?

Well I think the problem is, most faiths believe their way is the only way, and some denominations believe their denomination is the only way. This is a bunch of hooey. You only need to read Hebrews 11 to see that. The problem is people anchor their faith in a fashion so that they can say “Well I know I am saved and if you don’t think like me than whoa is you!”

I am under the conclusion that Jesus is the judge. Outside of myself, I can thankfully say it is not my job to say who is going to heaven. I am amazed his grace extends to even me, because while I am unworthy of redemption, he still saved me. I know that grace extends to everyone, but they must act on it outside of the confines of some organization or building or denomination.

(If that isn’t it than I can honestly say I am struggling to find your contention).

 

[Xavierlives]

I think I understood what you meant, Xavier. I do, however, take issue with your assessment that it’s okay to disagree on God’s Revelation and Divine Word, provided that someone professes Jesus as Lord.

The Scriptures do not teach that, thus it’s wrong to proclaim this.

Indeed. Faith, like love, has multiple facets.

Hmm… I’m not sure where we have gone off track. When you say my “assessment that it’s okay to disagree on God’s Revelation and Divine Word, provided that someone professes Jesus as Lord.” are we talking about my Hebrews 11 post?

Well I think the problem is, most faiths believe their way is the only way, and some denominations believe their denomination is the only way. This is a bunch of hooey. You only need to read Hebrews 11 to see that. The problem is people anchor their faith in a fashion so that they can say “Well I know I am saved and if you don’t think like me than whoa is you!”

I am under the conclusion that Jesus is the judge. Outside of myself, I can thankfully say it is not my job to say who is going to heaven. I am amazed his grace extends to even me, because while I am unworthy of redemption, he still saved me. I know that grace extends to everyone, but they must act on it outside of the confines of some organization or building or denomination.

Is that your point?

 

[1beleevr]

I think we as Christians must share the *entire *Word of God with others–believers and non-believers alike!

For do not even the demons have faith? [BIBLEDRB]James 2:19[/BIBLEDRB]

]

I have noticed that among believers, there is at times a reluctancy to share one another’s faith or the Gospel, especially to other believers! The consensus seems to be that once they have made a profession of faith, and accepted Christ as their Saviour, that they are okay! This is the time when Satan becomes very active against said new believers! So, we should be disciples and witnesses for Christ, proclaiming the Good News to all!:thumbsup:Hey, quick question that is off topic; my neighbor and her husband are renewing their wedding vows(they had a civil ceremony with a judge. They are planning this program at a catholic church; but were told that her sister cannot be the matron of honor, as her sister was not married in a catholic church What is the big deal with that???

 

[tweetymom]

]

I have noticed that among believers, there is at times a reluctancy to share one another’s faith or the Gospel, especially to other believers! The consensus seems to be that once they have made a profession of faith, and accepted Christ as their Saviour, that they are okay! This is the time when Satan becomes very active against said new believers! So, we should be disciples and witnesses for Christ, proclaiming the Good News to all!:thumbsup:Hey, quick question that is off topic; my neighbor and her husband are renewing their wedding vows(they had a civil ceremony with a judge. They are planning this program at a catholic church; but were told that her sister cannot be the matron of honor, as her sister was not married in a catholic church What is the big deal with that???

I don’t know cause when I got married for the second time, my daughter in law was my matron of honor and granddaughter was a bridesmaid. And neither are Catholic. So i don’t have the answer.

 

[4Squarebaby]

]

:Hey, quick question that is off topic; my neighbor and her husband are renewing their wedding vows(they had a civil ceremony with a judge. They are planning this program at a catholic church; but were told that her sister cannot be the matron of honor, as her sister was not married in a catholic church What is the big deal with that???

My guess is they don’t think the sister should be involved in a co-validation if she was not validly married:shrug:

 

[PRmerger]

I have noticed that among believers, there is at times a reluctancy to share one another’s faith or the Gospel, especially to other believers! The consensus seems to be that once they have made a profession of faith, and accepted Christ as their Saviour, that they are okay! This is the time when Satan becomes very active against said new believers! So, we should be disciples and witnesses for Christ, proclaiming the Good News to all!

Indeed, 1beleevr, Indeed! :tiphat:

Hey, quick question that is off topic; my neighbor and her husband are renewing their wedding vows(they had a civil ceremony with a judge. They are planning this program at a catholic church; but were told that her sister cannot be the matron of honor, as her sister was not married in a catholic church What is the big deal with that???

Well, it’s difficult to say without knowing the details, but if the sister is Catholic and was not married in a Catholic church, perhaps it’s because the CC recognized that she was not free to marry. Maybe she was* already *married and was now living an adulterous relationship with another man?

 

[PRmerger]

Hmm… I’m not sure where we have gone off track. When you say my “assessment that it’s okay to disagree on God’s Revelation and Divine Word, provided that someone professes Jesus as Lord.” are we talking about my Hebrews 11 post?

No. I’m talking about your doctrine of “it doesn’t really matter what you believe as long as you profess that Jesus is Lord.”

There is only one faith, one baptism, one church, and to profess anything contrary to that One Faith is to separate yourself from Christ.

I am under the conclusion that Jesus is the judge. Outside of myself, I can thankfully say it is not my job to say who is going to heaven. I am amazed his grace extends to even me, because while I am unworthy of redemption, he still saved me. I know that grace extends to everyone, but they must act on it outside of the confines of some organization or building or denomination.

Amen! That is a very Catholic thing to profess!

 

[Xavierlives]

No. I’m talking about your doctrine of “it doesn’t really matter what you believe as long as you profess that Jesus is Lord.”

Well I am only inclusive because God is inclusive, but I think to get closer to what I see as your meaning, I never said that all was involved was a profession. Anybody can say “Jesus is Lord” but their must be the faith behind that. Then Jesus intercedes. While I would say everyone must follow steps 1 - 10 to become a Christian, we see some people going to paradise by simply having faith, no baptism, no communion, no any other external thing. Just an internal faith.

There is only one faith, one baptism, one church, and to profess anything contrary to that One Faith is to separate yourself from Christ.

Amen! That is a very Catholic thing to profess!

Err… thanks, I think.