View Full Version : Does Denomination Matter?
Bible Addict
9th August 2004, 02:43 PM
I have a question: does it matter which denomination of church you are a member of? My family attends a United Church, but I'm more inclined to become Catholic, for many personal reasons and because of some of m y beliefs, but I don't know if it makes a difference in God's eyes. Also, does that Bible say anything about it? I've never seen anywahere in the bible where it mentions if denomination matters...
Thanks :)
steelmagnolia
9th August 2004, 02:50 PM
As long as the denomination is Christian and does not sway from the teachings of the Bible then I don't think it's a problem. I've tried explaining this to my daughter who has Catholic grandparents. It's not easy to explain. :sigh:
Rebirth In Flames
9th August 2004, 04:11 PM
As long as they believe Christ is their Lord and Savior, and believe in asking for forgiveness, then they're part of our family. The people of Corinth started to take pride in their "denominations" and Paul got upset with them because they were missing the fact that all of them were part of the same family, and were all children of God.. no matter what title or name they studied and worshipped under. Unfortunetally, that same issue happens today.. "I'm lutheran" "I'm Catholic" "I'm Baptist" .. it doesn't really matter, go with what you feel more comfortable in, but just remember to keep things in perspective.
Bible Addict
9th August 2004, 04:26 PM
Thanks, both of your replies really clarified this for me :)
Tenorvoice
9th August 2004, 08:14 PM
Demominations don't meen squat
As long as it is a Bible, Preaching, Beliving, Living Church, and your doctrine is sound them it doesn't matter.
Even still it is a personal relationship with the Lord God Himself that matters the most and the attitude of the heart.
peace
PaladinGirl
9th August 2004, 08:39 PM
Yes, it matters because some denominations preach heretical things. But overall it doesn't matter as long as the denomination preaches orthodox (not the denomination) theology as opposed to unorthodox.
BronxBriar
10th August 2004, 08:32 AM
It mattered to me a great deal. I belonged to a church that taught me more about itself than Christ, more about its own historical documents than the Word of God. Find a group of believers that search the riches of his word and avoid the 'smells and bells' of empty rituals.
eightfoot514
10th August 2004, 09:32 AM
Find a group of believers that search the riches of his word and avoid the 'smells and bells' of empty rituals. Smells and bells of empty rituals...
You're not referring to Catholics, are you? :eek:
Eric
indeep
10th August 2004, 09:41 AM
I am anti-denominational. I attend a lutheran church for the simple fact that there are a lot of my friends/support base there, and it is convenient for me. I do not call myself a lutheran however.
I do have issues with catholicism, but I don't think I need to get into them here. I don't have a problem with catholics themselves, but... I disagree with some of catholic doctrine I guess, as I disagree with some of every denomination's bits... *shrug*
eightfoot514
10th August 2004, 09:51 AM
Well you see, Catholicism is not a denomination. It is the original Church that has maintained the teachings of Jesus and the Apostles in unity of faith and belief. Denominations were not part of Jesus' will. "There will be one flock, one shepherd." Misunderstandings do unfortunately arise. Most disagreements people have with other people's faiths are usually misconeptions and not actual truths about the other person's faith. It's amazing how much we have in common with our Protestant brethren, it's just that we all word things differently, but a great portion of the time we actually mean the same thing. I was once a Baptist, and I have seen that denominationalism is not a pretty side of Christianity. Actually, there are over 20,000 denominations in Christianity, all claiming to have the correct faith. But, I pray someday we may reconcile our differences and see unity in the Body of Christ once again.
Eric
BronxBriar
10th August 2004, 09:56 AM
Well you see, Catholicism is not a denomination. It is the original Church that has maintained the teachings of Jesus and the Apostles in unity of faith and belief. Denominations were not part of Jesus' will. "There will be one flock, one shepherd."
Eric
Your opinion. A debate for another time and place.
BronxBriar
10th August 2004, 10:03 AM
Smells and bells of empty rituals...
You're not referring to Catholics, are you? :eek:
Eric
I don't know...why? How many empty rituals you have? Maybe I was referring to Tibetan Buddhism....:bow: :bow:
eightfoot514
10th August 2004, 11:15 AM
I inferred it was probably Catholicism being referred to because we are known to use incense and bells during the Mass, and we were speaking exclusively about Christianity. No empty rituals though, rather, the Sacred act of worship that has been celebrated since the Apostles.
It is historically undeniable that the Cathoilc Church (and Orthodox Church) make up the original Church. Also, there is record of consistent Christian teaching from the earliest times of Christianity to the present day. That part is not simply my opinion, but historical fact.
However, whether or not you agree with the Church's teachings, that is where the matter of opinion comes in.
Eric
ShyBoy
10th August 2004, 11:26 AM
I have a question: does it matter which denomination of church you are a member of? My family attends a United Church, but I'm more inclined to become Catholic, for many personal reasons and because of some of m y beliefs, but I don't know if it makes a difference in God's eyes. Also, does that Bible say anything about it? I've never seen anywahere in the bible where it mentions if denomination matters...
Thanks :)Seeing that denominationalism is the greatest cause of disunity in the body of Christ, I would say that it does matter. Why do these denominations exist? Is it the will of God or is it just the result of the sinful pride of the people that founded these denominations?
BronxBriar
10th August 2004, 12:16 PM
It is historically undeniable that the Catholic Church (and Orthodox Church) make up the original Church. Also, there is record of consistent Christian teaching from the earliest times of Christianity to the present day. That part is not simply my opinion, but historical fact.
Eric
Historically undeniable???? I think you need to read a bit more history. You also need to learn to show a bit more respect when you visit a forum that is not of your own denomination.
If you were permitted by forum rules to debate here, which by the way you are not, I would respond by saying that you are only spreading your warped view of history.
Please follow the forum rules. Fellowship posts only.
Thank you.
racer
10th August 2004, 01:00 PM
I have a question: does it matter which denomination of church you are a member of? My family attends a United Church, but I'm more inclined to become Catholic, for many personal reasons and because of some of m y beliefs, but I don't know if it makes a difference in God's eyes. Also, does that Bible say anything about it? I've never seen anywahere in the bible where it mentions if denomination matters...
Thanks :)
No, God doesn't mind what Christian denomination you belong to. He won't even mind if you become Catholic. ;) He'll love you anyway.
eightfoot514
10th August 2004, 01:16 PM
Historically undeniable???? I think you need to read a bit more history. You also need to learn to show a bit more respect when you visit a forum that is not of your own denomination.I didn't mean any disrespect to anyone. To my understanding, "non-denominational" means a common ground for all Christians. I didn't think I was presenting debatable material, since it is what I learned in in history class in high school, well before I became a Catholic. Again, no disrespect meant to anyone, I just thought all Christians were in general agreement on this. Peace. :wave:
Eric
eightfoot514
10th August 2004, 01:23 PM
Ah, after reading the forum rules, I saw that I am indeed not considered part of the common ground of "non-denominational." Interesting though, I didn't realize non-denominational strictly meant Protestant. Sorry.
Care to start a thread in the Church Histroy forum about the original Church? I would gladly join you there, just provide a link here, if interested.
Eric
BInC
11th August 2004, 01:00 AM
Doesn't matter what denomination you go to, as long as it has the right fundamental beliefs. However, if there is a specific church that seems stale or just unhelpful to you, you might switch churches.
Bible Addict
11th August 2004, 11:12 AM
Seeing that denominationalism is the greatest cause of disunity in the body of Christ, I would say that it does matter. Why do these denominations exist? Is it the will of God or is it just the result of the sinful pride of the people that founded these denominations?
Your reply is only backed up by BronxBriar having a go at each other's denominations. Thank you to everyone who replied, you've all helped me figure out the answer to my question hugely :)
BronxBriar
11th August 2004, 03:44 PM
Your reply is only backed up by BronxBriar having a go at each other's denominations. Thank you to everyone who replied, you've all helped me figure out the answer to my question hugely :)
I think you are referring to my exchanges with eightfoot514. I was not "having a go" (as you put it) at his denomination. What I was responding to was his interference in a non-denominational forum. You asked the question here and I assumed you wanted the opinion and perspective of non-denominational christians. If you wanted a roman catholic opinion I would have assumed that would have asked in the catholic forum.
The opinions he held and expressed here are the antithesis of everything a non-denominational christian holds dear and he should have been aware that posting here might rub a nerve.
If you are truly a Bible Addict as your screen name indicates, it is my opinion that you will find a true spiritual home in a bible believing church.
Good luck on your journey.
Bible Addict
11th August 2004, 04:04 PM
I think you are referring to my exchanges with eightfoot514. I was not "having a go" (as you put it) at his denomination. What I was responding to was his interference in a non-denominational forum. You asked the question here and I assumed you wanted the opinion and perspective of non-denominational christians. If you wanted a roman catholic opinion I would have assumed that would have asked in the catholic forum.
The opinions he held and expressed here are the antithesis of everything a non-denominational christian holds dear and he should have been aware that posting here might rub a nerve.
If you are truly a Bible Addict as your screen name indicates, it is my opinion that you will find a true spiritual home in a bible believing church.
Good luck on your journey.
Whoa... calm down there pal, I'm not saying anything bad about you, I was just commenting on the fact that having denominations created discord and arguments, like this right here... nothing personal.
BronxBriar
11th August 2004, 04:46 PM
Whoa... calm down there pal, I'm not saying anything bad about you, I was just commenting on the fact that having denominations created discord and arguments, like this right here... nothing personal.
I am well aware of what you were commenting on. If you read my post again, try to do so slowly and carefully. Please note that it is a very calm and reasoned post and inferring otherwise I will attribute to your youth. By the way, I'm not your 'pal'. Actually i'm old enough to be your dad and the last thing I need is a teen 'pal'. ;)
Do the right thing brother.
Bible Addict
11th August 2004, 05:09 PM
I am well aware of what you were commenting on. If you read my post again, try to do so slowly and carefully. Please note that it is a very calm and reasoned post and inferring otherwise I will attribute to your youth. By the way, I'm not your 'pal'. Actually i'm old enough to be your dad and the last thing I need is a teen 'pal'. ;)
Do the right thing brother.I don't know what happened to make you so bitter, or rude for that matter, but I'd like to point out that "pal" is just an expression; you don't need to worry, I don't consider you as being anything positive outside of being a Christian... brother.
BronxBriar
11th August 2004, 05:26 PM
I'm more inclined to become Catholic
Letting your prior remarks slide........................
You'll do very well there. God Bless You.
Col
11th August 2004, 07:55 PM
Q. Do denominations matter?
A. Of course not
Jesus has called us to follow Him, not a particular denomination.
Being a Christian is all about having a personal relationship with Christ, not about having an adminstrative relationship with an institution.
ShaunJ
11th August 2004, 11:30 PM
Well I see people in this thread alone have shown you what denominations can do to fellow believers, so I need not go there.
Good luck and God bless :)
BronxBriar
12th August 2004, 08:14 AM
Well I see people in this thread alone have shown you what denominations can do to fellow believers, so I need not go there.
Good luck and God bless :)
I wish you would go there. I'd be very interested in your more developed thoughts regarding inter-denominational strife.
This thread was attempting to answer the OP until it was infected by "one true churchism". I didn't see any other non-denominational squabbling. We actually get along quite well if you ask me.
Do you have any thoughts on discord among believers within the same denomination? What great lesson do you find in that?
hugoguttman
12th August 2004, 01:01 PM
I am also an antidenominational person. I think those who preach Jesus, His sacrifice and how we can be sons of God by Him are correct. I congregate in a church which doctrine is based upon what is written in Bible. I donīt know which denomination is so far and I donīt want to know, as far as they teach me according what is written in Bible.
Jesus did not say...you will be catholic...you will be lutheran...you will be evangelical...and you will be X, Y and Z. He only said: If you want to be my disciples, just keep in my Word...
Pax
Hugo
bravado
17th August 2004, 10:29 PM
The advice by which I was given is to 1) pray and ask God for his answer 2) go where you are comfortable and 3) go where your HEART tells you is best.
Breni
17th August 2004, 11:50 PM
Denominations mean nothing, when it comes right down to it. Too many Christians place way too much emphasis on it IMO. All that matters is if you have Christ in your heart.
Simon_Templar
18th August 2004, 12:08 AM
I think there are true believers in pretty much every denomination. Also there are false believers in every denomination. However, some denom's deffinetly have better teaching (In general) than others. Also, I believe the letters to the churches in revelation apply to different kinds of churches today and they indicate that some churches face different challenges.
The only denom. I would say you deffinetly should not join is one that is apostate, that is they have abandon the basics of christian doctrine. There are a few of them around today and more are getting close to this point.
eightfoot514
18th August 2004, 03:08 PM
OK. Jesus came to earth and appointed 12 Apostles to lead His Chuch.
Now, what exactly did Jesus leave us Christians when He went to heaven? A Bible? No. As far as we know, He didn't tell anyone to write down anything. There was no sure-enough "bible" until the 300s. And even then, most Christians didn't have access to it for many many centuries to come. So how did Christ intend for us to encounter Him? Through the Sacred teachings of the Church. The Church isn't a mediator by any means, but it's teachings are handed down from Jesus and the Apostles, and these Sacred teachings are preserved through the bishops by the Holy Spirit in Apostolic Succession. The bishops are the successors of the Apostles. They shepherd the flock and preach sound doctrine.
Titus 1:7-9 For a bishop as Gods steward must be blameless, holding fast to the true message as taught so that he will be able both to exhort with sound doctrine and refute opponents.
Remember, Jesus started the Church, and it is a clear, visible, unified body. It has been that way for 2,000 years. Man started denominations some 1,500 years later.
Eric
New_Wineskin
18th August 2004, 06:08 PM
Now, what exactly did Jesus leave us Christians when He went to heaven? A Bible? No. As far as we know, He didn't tell anyone to write down anything. There was no sure-enough "bible" until the 300s. And even then, most Christians didn't have access to it for many many centuries to come. So how did Christ intend for us to encounter Him?He sent His Spirit when He ascended . The Spirit is how the Lord intended fo me to encounter Him . Not through a denomination . This is a nondenominational forum .
bravado
18th August 2004, 08:34 PM
What matters is what Jesus said. We are all sinners saved by grace. I will attend any church that will welcome me.
Simon_Templar
19th August 2004, 02:21 AM
OK. Jesus came to earth and appointed 12 Apostles to lead His Chuch.
Now, what exactly did Jesus leave us Christians when He went to heaven? A Bible? No. As far as we know, He didn't tell anyone to write down anything. There was no sure-enough "bible" until the 300s. And even then, most Christians didn't have access to it for many many centuries to come.
Actually this isn't historicaly accurate. The canon of scripture was officialy finalized in 397 AD at the council of Carthage. What this means is that at this time the bishops of the church got together and made a formal statement about which books would be officialy recognized as inspired scripture and which would not, and that no further works would be considered. This was not a creation of the bible, it was an official recognition of what had already been in existence for centuries. This is easily provable simply by examining the written decision of the council of Carthage. What is says is basicly "we recognize these books which have been handed down to us through the tradition of our fathers". The scriptures had been known and recognized by the church at large for generations before this.
The idea that most christians didn't have access to the scriptures is also false. The fact is that there were literaly thousands of copies of the books of scripture made and circulated well before 300 AD. It is an ironic fact for those who challenge the historicity of the new testament that the books of the new testament are without exception the most prolific and well attested manuscripts in ancient history. The early church even made a practice of transcribing good sermons and circulating them to other churches so there are many copies of documents such as these which survive to this day as well. The scriptures were well known, well circulated, and well attested and recognised as inspired long before 300 or the council of carthage.
eightfoot514
19th August 2004, 12:41 PM
Before the council of Carthage, many books of the New Testament were hotly disputed. There was significant doubt to the authenticy of Revelation, as well as many other NT books. Many books that were not ever canonized were seen as inspired by many Christians. It was difficult to determine which books could be trusted and seen as inspired.
And also, I believe you are mistaken about Scripture being that widespread. What, do you think they just picked a Bible up at the local bookstore? Or maybe they used the printing press to make these thousands of copies so everyone could own a copy.
In reality, Churches were lucky to have a gospel here and there, and maybe a couple of Paul's letters.
Also, that isn't exactly true about the council of Carthage. The council provided a list of the canonical books of the Old and New Testaments, but it did not necessarily close the cannon. The canon was not officially closed until the Council of Trent, in the 1500s.
Suffolk Sean
19th August 2004, 01:16 PM
Before the council of Carthage, many books of the New Testament were hotly disputed. There was significant doubt to the authenticy of Revelation, as well as many other NT books. Many books that were not ever canonized were seen as inspired by many Christians. It was difficult to determine which books could be trusted and seen as inspired.
And also, I believe you are mistaken about Scripture being that widespread. What, do you think they just picked a Bible up at the local bookstore? Or maybe they used the printing press to make these thousands of copies so everyone could own a copy.
In reality, Churches were lucky to have a gospel here and there, and maybe a couple of Paul's letters.
Also, that isn't exactly true about the council of Carthage. The council provided a list of the canonical books of the Old and New Testaments, but it did not necessarily close the cannon. The canon was not officially closed until the Council of Trent, in the 1500s.
There were definitly copies of the OT circulating around though. Most probable that access to them was not widespread. The septuagint was written in part prior to the birth of Jesus and the Vulgate was translated only a few centuries after.
The Septuagint being written in greek was an very readable version of the OT to the early church.
SpiritPsalmist
19th August 2004, 03:08 PM
http://www.mardigrasoutlet.com/_images/products/AP17013-T.jpg (http://www.mardigrasoutlet.com/details.asp?prodID=449) Mod Hat
This is a non-denominational forum. Unless you are non-denominational and Protestent, you can do fellowship post's but you are not allowed to debate in this area of the forum. This will be the only friendly warning that does not include passing out warning points and or temporary vacations as needed. :)
eightfoot514
19th August 2004, 05:51 PM
Help, help, I'm being repressed!
LOL, jk....I can never resist sticking in a Monty Python quote when the opportunity arises.
Alright, you're right. I keep forgetting where I am. See, I was accessing this thread from my User CP rather than from the non-denominational forum page. Abesnt-mindedly, I kept thinking this was in the General Theology section. I'm sorry...only fellowship posts from here on out. :)
God bless.
New_Wineskin
19th August 2004, 05:59 PM
Help, help, I'm being repressed!
Bloody peasant . ;)
Monica02
21st August 2004, 02:24 PM
The Old Testament Canon was not closed by the Jews untill the late first century at the council of Jamnia (Javna???). At this council they determined that the books we know as the New Testament were not legit as well as some books from what Catholics know to be in the Old Testament. This resulted in the difference between the Palestinain Canon (Protestant) and The Alexandrian Canon (Catholic) of the Old Testament. The first Complete canon of Christian Scripture,as we know it today, was determined at the Council of Rome in the late 4th century and it was the Catholic version because that was the only Christian Church at the time. There were several books floating around in different communities. Some books which were read but not included in the canon are the Shepard of Hermas and the writings of Clement. Some of the books that were included were disputed by some.
The canon remained pretty consistent through the centuries until Martin Luther chose, by HIS OWN authority, to use the Hebrew Canon for the Christian Old Testament. In response the Catholic Church declared the canon officially closed at the Council of Trent.
Pastor_Benjamin
21st August 2004, 04:22 PM
Denomination doesn't matter as long as it doesn't add or take away from the bible.
eightfoot514
21st August 2004, 04:55 PM
Denomination doesn't matter as long as it doesn't add or take away from the bible. Then...wouldn't that statement exclude denominations that follow Luther's canon?
Sacrifice
23rd August 2004, 04:53 PM
If we follow Jesus, and follow his teachings properly, then we are all the same denomination, no matter what we want to call ourselves or what other people call us. If we follow Jesus, we are Christians and that is the only denomination there should be. IMO having so many denominations is not good for the church, as non christians think we are divided.
God Bless.
Monica02
24th August 2004, 05:05 PM
What does it mean to follow Jesus properly? What does it mean to add or subtract from the Bible? The Church does consider all baptised persons who believe in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit to be Christian. The fullness of the Deposit of Faith can only be found in what is normally called the Catholic Church. Without the Magisterium, Holy Scriptures and the Holy Spirit one cannot know the complete teachings of the faith.
I can't think of anything more important than choosing the correct church. It would seem to me that a Christian would want, more than anything, to learn and attempt to understand the complete faith. Not just part of it. Not what they want it to be.
Not whatever church has a good preacher or fun programs. "Denomination" is very important.
Col
26th August 2004, 02:48 AM
..............The Church does consider all baptised persons who believe in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit to be Christian.............Well Jesus did and that is what matters.
Its all about Jesus, not all about "Church". Also I think Monica02's quote is rather strange to say the very least and a contradiction of Jesus at its worst, and also Christianity itself.
Maybe Monica02 hasn't got to John 3:16 in her "Bible" yet.
BronxBriar
26th August 2004, 07:56 AM
The fullness of the Deposit of Faith can only be found in what is normally called the Catholic Church. Without the Magisterium, Holy Scriptures and the Holy Spirit one cannot know the complete teachings of the faith.
Interesting catechism lesson. Thankfully your opinion is rejected by most here.
BronxBriar
26th August 2004, 08:03 AM
Well Jesus did and that is what matters.
Its all about Jesus, not all about "Church". Also I think Monica02's quote is rather strange to say the very least and a contradiction of Jesus at its worst, and also Christianity itself.
Maybe Monica02 hasn't got to John 3:16 in her "Bible" yet.
Maybe she's checking on what the Roman Catholic Magisterium tells her she should believe and she'll get back to you.
eightfoot514
26th August 2004, 09:52 AM
The Bible says the Church is the foundation of the Truth. If you believe in the Bible, you believe that.
We may all disagree on what the Bible really means by "church," but I would hardly call it ethical or mature to criticize a legitimate interpretation of your very on Scriptures.
BronxBriar
26th August 2004, 10:10 AM
Post deleted by me
Suffolk Sean
26th August 2004, 10:28 AM
What does it mean to follow Jesus properly? What does it mean to add or subtract from the Bible? The Church does consider all baptised persons who believe in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit to be Christian. The fullness of the Deposit of Faith can only be found in what is normally called the Catholic Church. Without the Magisterium, Holy Scriptures and the Holy Spirit one cannot know the complete teachings of the faith.
I can't think of anything more important than choosing the correct church. It would seem to me that a Christian would want, more than anything, to learn and attempt to understand the complete faith. Not just part of it. Not what they want it to be.
Not whatever church has a good preacher or fun programs. "Denomination" is very important.
Wow, amazing in it's arrogance. I can't think of anything more important that to reject the traditions of men and seeing the truth as it was given.
eightfoot514
26th August 2004, 10:51 AM
it would have been un-ethical of me to let those comments pass.Of course. That's an integral part of the forums.
My point was that people didn't have to be rude about it. Yes, we disagree on things, but that does not call for anyone to take shots at the Catholic Church by implying Catholics can't think for themselves or that they aren't familiar with salvation through Christ.
BronxBriar
26th August 2004, 12:03 PM
Post deleted by me.
Suffolk Sean
26th August 2004, 12:04 PM
I guess rudeness is in the eye of the beholder. When an RC comes into the Non-denom forum and says things like:
"The fullness of the Deposit of Faith can only be found in what is normally called the Catholic Church. Without the Magisterium, Holy Scriptures and the Holy Spirit one cannot know the complete teachings of the faith."
you can expect a response. Most here are quite well aware of what the RC church teaches. If we have any questions about your faith we'll drop into OBOB and ask for clarification. I for one will sit by no longer as you troll through other forums to post your exaggerated claims to ecclesial superiority.
What he said but a little nicer. :)
BronxBriar
26th August 2004, 12:09 PM
Post deleted by me
eightfoot514
26th August 2004, 01:39 PM
See? That's all there is to it. ;)
Monica02
26th August 2004, 04:57 PM
I have a question: does it matter which denomination of church you are a member of? My family attends a United Church, but I'm more inclined to become Catholic, for many personal reasons and because of some of m y beliefs, but I don't know if it makes a difference in God's eyes. Also, does that Bible say anything about it? I've never seen anywahere in the bible where it mentions if denomination matters...
Thanks :)
Are we all forgetting Bible Addict's original post - especially the part about considering Catholicism. I think this allows, quite validly, for a Catholic response. The Catholic Church does teach that only She holds the COMPLETE Deposit of Faith. Other faiths can be considered Christian but they are lacking some of the Deposit of Faith. If posters find this rude or arrogant ,well I do not know what to say. I am required as a Catholic to always strive to teach the Truth of the faith.
I encourage Bible Addict to get a Catholic Bible, The Catechism of the Catholic Church and any other materials that will help him to understand the Church.
The Bible does not mention denomination because Jesus started only one Church. I would also like to encourage Bible Addict to research the history of the Church and also of how the Canon of Scripture came to be.
Some people might be upset becuse I brought up the point of choosing a church for reasons like appealing preachers and programs . This has been my experience, alot of people do choose their Church for just that reason and I do believe that those are silly reasons. I also cannot understand why people seek out a church that will preach simply what they want to beleive. This runs contrary to what Truth is. Truth is not relative.
Many Churches (denominations) and Christians do sincerely believe that their interpretation of the Bible is a truthful one-no argument here. However there are tens of thousands of denominations ,which should lead one to question their truth (not their sincerity). The Catholic Church is the only Church with the Magisterium-this is part of the definition. All appeals to the Bible are actually appeals to the Catholic Church because the Bible is a Traditon of the Church. A council of Catholic Bishops determined the canon.
People may get offended by this, they might think the Church is arrogant. So be it. Bible Addict indicated an interest in Catholicism, I am a Catholic and am obligated to do my best to tell him about it.
God Bless
New_Wineskin
27th August 2004, 04:57 AM
Are we all forgetting Bible Addict's original post - especially the part about considering Catholicism. I think this allows, quite validly, for a Catholic response.
Bible Addict's original post was an invitation for nondenominationalists to respond about how denominationalism matters . If BA wanted extra input from Catholics , they would go directly to that forum for that pov . Otherwise , it could be in the debate forum or other forum for cross-denominational discussion .
Suffolk Sean
27th August 2004, 07:10 AM
People may get offended by this, they might think the Church is arrogant. So be it. Bible Addict indicated an interest in Catholicism, I am a Catholic and am obligated to do my best to tell him about it.
God Bless
You also agreed to abide by the rules of the forum. To violate that to push your point is dishonest, I don't believe intentially so however.
apadilla
27th August 2004, 09:43 AM
"MORE JESUS, LESS RELIGION"
May God Bless Us ALL!!!
insane
27th August 2004, 09:04 PM
What religion really doesn't matter to me, It what you believe JEsus did for all of us. GOd doesn't see Religion at all. He see what we do and how we obey him
Olgert
28th August 2004, 01:33 AM
"""""""""2 Also, does that Bible say anything about it? I've never seen anywahere in the bible where it mentions if denomination matters...""""""""" Well - it is true. But our doktrins can possibly be based on false predicaments, after this our faith not correct
Col
29th August 2004, 12:58 AM
I guess rudeness is in the eye of the beholder. When an RC comes into the Non-denom forum and says things like:
"The fullness of the Deposit of Faith can only be found in what is normally called the Catholic Church. Without the Magisterium, Holy Scriptures and the Holy Spirit one cannot know the complete teachings of the faith."
you can expect a response. Most here are quite well aware of what the RC church teaches. If we have any questions about your faith we'll drop into OBOB and ask for clarification. I for one will sit by no longer as you troll through other forums to post your exaggerated claims to ecclesial superiority.
Well said!
RVincent
30th August 2004, 03:23 PM
Help, help, I'm being repressed!
LOL, jk....I can never resist sticking in a Monty Python quote when the opportunity arises.God bless.
Not only did he already apologize for posting at this forum, but any Catholic who likes Monty Python, is OK with me! :D
The Holy Hand Grenade of Antioch
Then did he raise on high the Holy Hand Grenade of Antioch, saying, "Bless this, O Lord, that with it thou mayst blow thine enemies to tiny bits, in thy mercy."
And the people did rejoice and did feast upon the lambs and toads and tree-sloths and fruit-bats and orangutans and breakfast cereals ...
Now did the Lord say, "First thou pullest the Holy Pin. Then thou must count to three. Three shall be the number of the counting and the number of the counting shall be three.
Four shalt thou not count, neither shalt thou count two, excepting that thou then proceedeth to three. Five is right out.
Once the number three, being the number of the counting, be reached, then lobbest thou the Holy Hand Grenade in the direction of thine foe, who, being naughty in my sight, shall snuff it."
Copyright ©2000-2008, ChristianForums.com