Rhetorical of course. Everyone feels "their" denomination is the most accurate and most aligned with the scriptures. We know of course that everyone cannot be correct in this assumption. Another day another schism it seems. These almost countless schisms have weakened the Body of Christ. Now before some of you start throwing stones at me I'm not suggesting that some were not necessary for correction of doctrine that had gone off the tracks. Some were critical and I'm thankful. I fully oppose a one-world religion. I support Jesus for all.
What I see many times are Christians who place denominational belief statements above scripture. They have an allegiance with their denomination that IMHO nears Idolatry. We must know that scriptures trump denominational beliefs, mission statements, and practices. Our salvation is not from a collective membership. Our relationship is a personal one. You cannot be dragged into Heaven or carried in by others. It is good to fellowship with believers who you feel are most aligned with your beliefs but a sworn allegiance to a denomination is dangerous. Many believers do not practice or are at risk of worshiping a denomination but some are fully under the authority of denominational leadership and seek no confirmation in the Holy Bible. They have abandoned their relationship with the Holy Spirit thru God's word learning only the view of the person behind the pulpit. This for some has been a generational impact that can be even more difficult to crawl out of "if momma believed it, I believe it". I do not think this is wise. I would not think God finds pleasure in our failure to understand his word thru the Holy Spirit enough to be more aligned.
Can actions, beliefs, and practices turn a denomination into an Idol? If we place a denominational structure above Christ are we guilty? Many keep their focus on Jesus but some I fear do not.
What I see many times are Christians who place denominational belief statements above scripture. They have an allegiance with their denomination that IMHO nears Idolatry. We must know that scriptures trump denominational beliefs, mission statements, and practices. Our salvation is not from a collective membership. Our relationship is a personal one. You cannot be dragged into Heaven or carried in by others. It is good to fellowship with believers who you feel are most aligned with your beliefs but a sworn allegiance to a denomination is dangerous. Many believers do not practice or are at risk of worshiping a denomination but some are fully under the authority of denominational leadership and seek no confirmation in the Holy Bible. They have abandoned their relationship with the Holy Spirit thru God's word learning only the view of the person behind the pulpit. This for some has been a generational impact that can be even more difficult to crawl out of "if momma believed it, I believe it". I do not think this is wise. I would not think God finds pleasure in our failure to understand his word thru the Holy Spirit enough to be more aligned.
Can actions, beliefs, and practices turn a denomination into an Idol? If we place a denominational structure above Christ are we guilty? Many keep their focus on Jesus but some I fear do not.