Which denomination do I belong to?

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Augustin56

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Why not look into the original Church, founded by Christ, the Catholic Church? The Catholic Church is not a “denomination” (which means “to take a new name”); it is the Church. Those who are in schism, who break away or subsist apart from it are denominations or sects. The Catholic Church is not. It is the Church. It has the original. complete, and unchanging teachings of Christ within it's doctrine. (The word, doctrine, comes from the Latin word, docere, which means to teach.) Why would you waste time looking at the denominations that broke away from Christ's Church in the 16th century, all of which strayed in some way, from the original doctrines of Christ?
 
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Tulipbee

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I am non denomination I think. And I allow myself to worship with anyone I choose.
Do non-denominational churches, including yours, adhere to a shared belief system outlined on a central website, or does each church have its own self-contained statement of beliefs?
 
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Tulipbee

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Why not look into the original Church, founded by Christ, the Catholic Church? The Catholic Church is not a “denomination” (which means “to take a new name”); it is the Church. Those who are in schism, who break away or subsist apart from it are denominations or sects. The Catholic Church is not. It is the Church. It has the original. complete, and unchanging teachings of Christ within it's doctrine. (The word, doctrine, comes from the Latin word, docere, which means to teach.) Why would you waste time looking at the denominations that broke away from Christ's Church in the 16th century, all of which strayed in some way, from the original doctrines of Christ?
While the Catholic Church holds a significant place in Christian history, exploring various denominations fosters a deeper understanding of diverse beliefs. I find certain aspects of RCC teachings troublesome, seeking a broader perspective on Christianity's rich tapestry. Engaging with different traditions allows for a comprehensive exploration of the Christian faith and its evolving interpretations.
 

dev553344

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Do non-denominational churches, including yours, adhere to a shared belief system outlined on a central website, or does each church have its own self-contained statement of beliefs?
I follow God not man. The holy spirit speaks and directs me personally.
 

Augustin56

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While the Catholic Church holds a significant place in Christian history, exploring various denominations fosters a deeper understanding of diverse beliefs. I find certain aspects of RCC teachings troublesome, seeking a broader perspective on Christianity's rich tapestry. Engaging with different traditions allows for a comprehensive exploration of the Christian faith and its evolving interpretations.
Is the goal "diverse" beliefs, or true beliefs? The truth doesn't contradict itself. Christ' teaching (doctrines) are immutable (unchanging). Unless there is proof that Christ came down Himself to make corrections, why would you consider something that strays from the original beliefs? (consider Gal. 1:8) Just asking...
 
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Tulipbee

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I follow God not man. The holy spirit speaks and directs me personally.
@dev553344, your commitment to following God and relying on the guidance of the Holy Spirit personally is commendable. It raises an interesting question about the prevalence of Arminianism in many non-denominational churches, including those I've viewed online.

Arminianism, with its emphasis on human free will in responding to God's offer of salvation, seems to be a common thread in many non-denominational churches. From your perspective, why do you think Arminianism is widespread in these churches? Additionally, do you see any potential for a shift towards Reformed theology within the non-denominational community, embracing what some may consider the gospel truths of Calvinism?
 
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Tulipbee

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Is the goal "diverse" beliefs, or true beliefs? The truth doesn't contradict itself. Christ' teaching (doctrines) are immutable (unchanging). Unless there is proof that Christ came down Himself to make corrections, why would you consider something that strays from the original beliefs? (consider Gal. 1:8) Just asking...
@Augustin56, your concern about the importance of true beliefs and the unchanging nature of Christ's teachings is valid. The pursuit of truth is indeed a noble goal, and True Christians seek to align themselves with the real authentic teachings of Jesus Christ.
Your reference to Galatians 1:8 underscores the significance of adhering to the original and unaltered doctrines of Christ. The question of whether certain beliefs or teachings have deviated from the foundational truths is crucial for many Christians.
In exploring various denominations and traditions, the goal is to discern the consistency with the core teachings of Christ as presented in the 66 book Bible minus 7 uninspired, unauthored by God extra books. It's an ongoing journey for many believers to seek and embrace the truth while navigating the diverse landscape of Christian beliefs.
If you have specific concerns or points you'd like to discuss regarding the errors the Christians perceive in the papal system or any other aspect, feel free to share, and we can delve deeper into the conversation.
 
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Tulipbee

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@dev553344, your succinct response is noted. It's interesting to explore the varied theological perspectives within the non-denominational community. Given your stance, I'd be curious to hear your thoughts on why many non-denominational churches seem to align more with the false teachings of Jacobus Arminius and his unbiblical Arminianism rather than adhering to what Christians consider the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Is there a particular aspect of Arminianism that resonates with the nondenominational community, or is it a matter of theological preference within these churches? Your insights on this matter would contribute to a deeper understanding of the theological landscape within non-denominational congregations.
 
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Tulipbee

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Do any of the churches today follow the direction of the church established by the apostles in the new testament. I see that none follow that guidance.
Does this perspective align with the beliefs of your church as well?
 

dev553344

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@Tulipbee do any of these churches adhere to these biblical teachings of the new testament?

Bible Gateway passage: 1 Timothy 3:1-13 - New King James Version

Qualifications of Overseers
1 Timothy 3:1 This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work. 2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach; 3 not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous; 4 one who rules his own house well, having his children in submission with all reverence 5 (for if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the church of God?); 6 not a novice, lest being puffed up with pride he fall into the same condemnation as the devil. 7 Moreover he must have a good testimony among those who are outside, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

Qualifications of Deacons
1 Timothy 3:8 Likewise deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money, 9 holding the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience. 10 But let these also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons, being found blameless. 11 Likewise, their wives must be reverent, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things. 12 Let deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. 13 For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

Bible Gateway passage: Acts 4:32-36 - New King James Version

Sharing in All Things
Acts 4:32 Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. 33 And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all. 34 Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, 35 and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need.

These things were so important that Jesus gave lectures regarding the sheep and goats: Bible Gateway passage: Matthew 25:31-46 - New King James Version

Sapphira and Ananias were killed by God for defying those principles above.

Lying to the Holy Spirit
Acts 5:1 But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession. 2 And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain part and laid it at the apostles’ feet. 3 But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price of the land for yourself? 4 While it remained, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not in your own control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God.” 5 Then Ananias, hearing these words, fell down and breathed his last. So great fear came upon all those who heard these things. 6 And the young men arose and wrapped him up, carried him out, and buried him. 7 Now it was about three hours later when his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8 And Peter answered her, “Tell me whether you sold the land for so much?” She said, “Yes, for so much.” 9 Then Peter said to her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.” 10 Then immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. And the young men came in and found her dead, and carrying her out, buried her by her husband. 11 So great fear came upon all the church and upon all who heard these things.

Continuing Power in the Church
Acts 5:12 And through the hands of the apostles many signs and wonders were done among the people. And they were all with one accord in Solomon’s Porch. 13 Yet none of the rest dared join them, but the people esteemed them highly.
 
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Tulipbee

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@Tulipbee do any of these churches adhere to these biblical teachings of the new testament?

Bible Gateway passage: 1 Timothy 3:1-13 - New King James Version

Qualifications of Overseers
1 Timothy 3:1 This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work. 2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach; 3 not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous; 4 one who rules his own house well, having his children in submission with all reverence 5 (for if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the church of God?); 6 not a novice, lest being puffed up with pride he fall into the same condemnation as the devil. 7 Moreover he must have a good testimony among those who are outside, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

Qualifications of Deacons
1 Timothy 3:8 Likewise deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money, 9 holding the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience. 10 But let these also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons, being found blameless. 11 Likewise, their wives must be reverent, not slanderers, temperate, faithful in all things. 12 Let deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. 13 For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.

Bible Gateway passage: Acts 4:32-36 - New King James Version

Sharing in All Things
Acts 4:32 Now the multitude of those who believed were of one heart and one soul; neither did anyone say that any of the things he possessed was his own, but they had all things in common. 33 And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all. 34 Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for all who were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, 35 and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they distributed to each as anyone had need.

These things were so important that Jesus gave lectures regarding the sheep and goats: Bible Gateway passage: Matthew 25:31-46 - New King James Version

Sapphira and Ananias were killed by God for defying those principles above.

Lying to the Holy Spirit
Acts 5:1 But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession. 2 And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain part and laid it at the apostles’ feet. 3 But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price of the land for yourself? 4 While it remained, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not in your own control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God.” 5 Then Ananias, hearing these words, fell down and breathed his last. So great fear came upon all those who heard these things. 6 And the young men arose and wrapped him up, carried him out, and buried him. 7 Now it was about three hours later when his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8 And Peter answered her, “Tell me whether you sold the land for so much?” She said, “Yes, for so much.” 9 Then Peter said to her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.” 10 Then immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. And the young men came in and found her dead, and carrying her out, buried her by her husband. 11 So great fear came upon all the church and upon all who heard these things.

Continuing Power in the Church
Acts 5:12 And through the hands of the apostles many signs and wonders were done among the people. And they were all with one accord in Solomon’s Porch. 13 Yet none of the rest dared join them, but the people esteemed them highly.
Sounds like they follow Jacobus Arminius's fables.

1 Timothy 3:1-13 (Qualifications of Overseers and Deacons):

Christianity: Christians may emphasize God's sovereign election in choosing and enabling individuals to meet the qualifications for leadership roles within the church.
Arminianism: The nondenominational Arminians may highlight human responsibility and free will, believing that individuals have the capacity to respond to God's grace and meet the qualifications through their choices.
Acts 4:32-36 (Sharing in All Things):

Christianity: Christians might stress the sovereignty of God in orchestrating a community where believers willingly share possessions, reflecting God's preordained plan for their unity.
Arminianism: The nondenominational Arminians could see this as a demonstration of believers responding freely to God's grace, choosing to share their possessions out of their own volition and commitment.
Matthew 25:31-46 (Sheep and Goats):

Christianity: Christians may emphasize God's predestined election, with those recognized as sheep being those chosen by God for salvation, reflecting God's eternal purpose.
Arminianism: The nondenominational Arminians might emphasize the role of human choice and responsibility, suggesting that individuals are accountable for their actions, and their response to others reflects their faith.
Acts 5:1-11 (Ananias and Sapphira):

Christianity: Christians may interpret this as God's sovereign judgment on Ananias and Sapphira, illustrating God's control over matters of integrity and obedience.
Arminianism: The nondenominational Arminians might see this as a warning about the consequences of individual choices, emphasizing human responsibility in maintaining honesty and faithfulness.

In each case, Christianity tends to highlight the truths of God's sovereignty and predestination, while The nondenominational's Arminianism emphasizes false human free will and fake responsibilities. Keep in mind those statements these are loss generalizations, and individual believers will be answering God on judgment day.
 

Philip James

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We have two distinct groups mentioned here.....those “called to be holy ones” (saints) “TOGETHER WITH all those everywhere who are calling on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, THEIR LORD AND OURS”.

Hello Aunty Jane,

with all due respect, the two groups mentioned here are those in the Church at Corinth, and those in the Church throughout the world..

It is an affirmation of the catholicity of the Church in Corinth and everywhere!

.God never broke his worshippers into sects with different beliefs......why would he? There is moly one truth, not many versions of it.

Indeed! And the Truth does not change..

Pax et Bonum
 

dev553344

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Sounds like they follow Jacobus Arminius's fables.

1 Timothy 3:1-13 (Qualifications of Overseers and Deacons):

Christianity: Christians may emphasize God's sovereign election in choosing and enabling individuals to meet the qualifications for leadership roles within the church.
Arminianism: The nondenominational Arminians may highlight human responsibility and free will, believing that individuals have the capacity to respond to God's grace and meet the qualifications through their choices.
Acts 4:32-36 (Sharing in All Things):

Christianity: Christians might stress the sovereignty of God in orchestrating a community where believers willingly share possessions, reflecting God's preordained plan for their unity.
Arminianism: The nondenominational Arminians could see this as a demonstration of believers responding freely to God's grace, choosing to share their possessions out of their own volition and commitment.
Matthew 25:31-46 (Sheep and Goats):

Christianity: Christians may emphasize God's predestined election, with those recognized as sheep being those chosen by God for salvation, reflecting God's eternal purpose.
Arminianism: The nondenominational Arminians might emphasize the role of human choice and responsibility, suggesting that individuals are accountable for their actions, and their response to others reflects their faith.
Acts 5:1-11 (Ananias and Sapphira):

Christianity: Christians may interpret this as God's sovereign judgment on Ananias and Sapphira, illustrating God's control over matters of integrity and obedience.
Arminianism: The nondenominational Arminians might see this as a warning about the consequences of individual choices, emphasizing human responsibility in maintaining honesty and faithfulness.

In each case, Christianity tends to highlight the truths of God's sovereignty and predestination, while The nondenominational's Arminianism emphasizes false human free will and fake responsibilities. Keep in mind those statements these are loss generalizations, and individual believers will be answering God on judgment day.
It doesn't sound like people really care to follow Christ's teachings in these last days. If I'm being honest.
 
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Aunty Jane

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the two groups mentioned here are those in the Church at Corinth, and those in the Church throughout the world..

It is an affirmation of the catholicity of the Church in Corinth and everywhere!
Since “all scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for setting things straight, for disciplining in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be fully competent, completely equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)....all scripture then has application directly, or indirectly by principle, to all Christians.

It doesn’t matter to whom the directive was originally given...Be it a command or a principle, if it is in scripture then we have God’s authority on any matter.....not any “church’s” opinion on what scripture means.

Since Catholicism is a complete departure from what Christ taught with the addition of many beliefs and practices that were never found in Christ’s teachings, or in the conduct of the apostles, I will respectfully dismiss your statements since they are a reflection of a corrupted church system that puts the church first and the Bible last.
Indeed! And the Truth does not change..
But it changed in the RCC.....the Catholic church changed the very nature of God and his Christ.....it changed the emblems of the Last Supper into literal flesh and blood, which breaks God’s law.
It changed the position of Mary to one of a demi-god, worshipped like a goddess rather than the privileged vehicle through whom the Messiah was brought into the world. It changed her whole human physicality to “one born without sin”, which has no foundation in scripture.....It changed the role of Peter into a role now held by the pope through apostolic succession. “Pontifex Maximus” is a pagan Roman title...it is not Christian in origin, in exactly the same way as the idolatry seen in Catholicism finds no support in the Bible. It seems to me that the RCC took everything Jesus said not to do.....and incorporated it into their doctrines.

Unless someone is born into the RCC and indoctrinated from birth into its unchristian beliefs and practices, no one would read the Bible and decide to become Catholic. Especially is this so since Jesus and his apostles foretold that an apostasy would overtake the Christian faith and disown the very one they claim to serve by their adoption of clearly pagan beliefs....heavily laden with the traditions of men, and excused by refusing ‘sola scriptura’ as the only basis for teaching the truth of God’s word.

I’m sorry, but your church has only its antiquity to claim any validity. Just because it’s ancient doesn’t make it right.....greater accountability will be held against all who teach what is not truth.

Your church’s history is appalling. Her skirts are dripping in blood to this day as she sanctions the wars of the nations and sends her “priests” to placate the consciences of those who participate in the bloodshed, lest their conscience should get the better of them. (Isa 1:15)

You cannot begin to justify Roman Catholicism to me.
 

Philip James

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I will respectfully dismiss your statements since they are a reflection of a corrupted church system that puts the church first and the Bible last.

well thats not fair is it. My interpretation of a passage is inadmissable because it supports the teaching of my church? But yours is admissable because you are the arbiter of Truth?

Pax et Bonum
 

Aunty Jane

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well thats not fair is it. My interpretation of a passage is inadmissable because it supports the teaching of my church? But yours is admissable because you are the arbiter of Truth
If you would like to compare Christ’s teachings to the teachings of your church and their origins, please let me know....I left Protestantism because of their departures from what Christ taught....why would I be attracted to the RCC with its appalling history and it’s adopted doctrines straight out of Roman sun worship? I wasn’t about to jump out of the frying pan into that blazing fire of apostasy. Step back and compare yourself.....was what the RCC turned into even a small reflection of what first century Christianity revealed itself to be? All of Christendom has followed the lead of its promiscuous “mother” in prostituting itself to the nations, currying favour with the world, by promoting its political agendas and wars, but proving itself to be an enemy of God in the process. (James 4:4)

I’m truly sorry that you cannot see it. “Catholic” might mean “universal” but it can also mean universally wrong.....it’s not in the same “universe” as God’s true disciples. It is “universal” in its error.

I have studied the Bible with many Catholic people and they were appalled that the truth of God’s word was kept from them by being fed a steady diet of falsehood and disguised pagan practices by a corrupted church who taught them that they had God’s authority.......it never did.
 

Hazelelponi

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religion......God never broke his worshippers into sects with different beliefs...

No... God didn't. There is only one truth.

It is to us to find that truth in Him, and then follow that truth because our lives actually do depend on it.

There's no points for coming kinda close. You either believe in and follow the doctrine set forward by the apostles, or you don't make it to heaven.

Religion shopping as seen in the OP is unscriptural. Darkness has no ability to present any light.