Open to Interpretation

The denominational division of the Church is an unfortunate reality. That it has existed for so many centuries does not invalidate its inconsistency with the desire of Christ; “All mine are yours, and yours are mine, and I am glorified in them. . . Holy Father, keep them in your Name which You have given Me, that they may be one, even as We are One.” This prayed-for unity was meant to serve as a testimony to God, “. . . that they may all be one, just as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that You have sent Me.” (John 17:10,11b,21; I recommend reading the full chapter) Yet by disagreement and arrogance (and likely some degree of demonic exertion), saints over the years have segregated such that the world sees very little of the Spirit’s sovereign influence. Some might consider this outcome to have been unavoidable, and while this may be true, there is still some merit to investigating the contingencies that have resulted in the Church’s internal dissension.

To begin with, an understanding must be established concerning the “non-negotiables” of the Faith. While the term itself is not in Scripture, it aptly identifies the foundational doctrines of Christianity, the truths which define it for what it is. A full explanation thereof would be an essay of itself, but suffice to say these are those principles most directly concerning salvation, such as the reality of Christ’s death and resurrection, His complete and equal humanity and divinity, and His position as the Only Way to reconciliation with the Godhead. These principles are what define “denominations” as opposed to Bible-abusing cults, such as the Latter-Day Saints or Jehovah’s Witness.

Heresies, on the other hand, are doctrines in direct opposition to the non-negotiables. These are identified by their conflict with the Bible’s teachings (and as such I tend to categorize the denial of Scripture’s sufficiency and sovereignty as itself a heresy). Between these two classifications are the negotiable doctrines, upon which the interpretation of God’s Word is unclear. For the most part, this equates to principles which do not relate to salvation or the character of God; but it should be noted that, in cases where Scripture is unequivocal, defiance thereof is tantamount to a denial of God, and therefore heresy.

For illustration, one doctrinal controversy that does not fall into the category of heresy is in relation to baptism. Specifically, there has long been debate within the Church over the administration of the sacrament, whether by full immersion of the body in water, or by the pouring of water over the head (called “sprinkling”). Division results from a person of one position refusing to fellowship in peace with those of the other. This arrogance can manifest in different ways, ranging from quiet withdrawal to combative objection. Either way, the Church suffers from the dissension, as it gradually alienates itself from itself, until it is barely identifiable amongst its many supposed subsidiaries.

By my understanding, disagreements are inevitable, but need not lead to denouncement. The Holy Spirit guides each of the saints, and His Word serves as common ground upon which we may rely. Our insufficient interpretation can and should serve to our edification, as we seek together a more thorough knowledge of God to His glory! Let us diligently discern the difference between those vital truths upon which our faith is built and reinforced, and the doctrines which are meant for our encouragement rather than resentment. Let us have the humility to acknowledge our own negotiable beliefs, and the patience to tolerate those of others, even as we work to refine and reconcile each other toward a more perfect testimony of Jesus.

Be united in Christ! TTT