The Case for Denominations
Denominations as a whole are in decline, and the number of non-denominational churches is increasing, “13 percent of total American adults now identify as non-denominational. That is more than all mainline denominations combined” (Thom Rainer). Making a case for denominations today is like canoeing the Mighty Mississippi... upstream. However, it might be worth the effort to at least make the case.
Anecdotally, I attended the Southern Baptist Convention for the first time in Indianapolis this June. What I witnessed was at times chaotic, strange, and a work in progress. Yet, it was also encouraging. It was an attempt to bring together an extraordinarily large and diverse group of churches as some unified whole.
What denominations do badly
Many approach denominations with the presupposition that they are inherently bad, a sign of divisiveness in the kingdom. I am sympathetic to the view. They might even turn to 1 Corinthians 1:10-13:
“I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment. For it has been reported to me by Chloe's people that there is quarreling among you, my brothers. What I mean is that each one of you says, ‘I follow Paul,’ or ‘I follow Apollos,’ or ‘I follow Cephas,’ or ‘I follow Christ.’ Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?”
Is this any different than “I am Baptist,” “I am Methodist,” “I am Presbyterian,” and “I am Assemblies of God?” Doesn’t this demonstrate a division in the body of Christ? While it may be true that denominations exemplify the types of divisions mentioned here, the solution of turning to non-denominationalism also risks the “I follow Christ” category noted. To reject the brothers and sisters who claim to follow Paul, Apollos, and Cephas with a sort of condescending attitude, “unlike you all, I follow only Christ,” is equally wrong and divisive.
The answer, as the Apostle later gives, is not to create a new division by rejecting the others, but to recognize that Paul, Apollos, Cephas and all other true teachers belong to the whole church. In other words, the answer is to see our unity transcending nominal differences.
What denominations do well
At their most basic level, denominations denominate. That is, they help name theological or ecclesiological differences in the local church. On this side of glory, we will not all agree on issues such as credobaptism, submitting to bishops, or ordaining female clergy. If someone is seeking a church that has a mutual understanding of a particular theology or practice, all denominations do is clarify. Denominations can create a sound doctrine check-and-balance that is valuable for those seeking a church.
Even more importantly, it brings isolated local churches together for ministry and missions. For example, the International Mission Board presented 83 missionaries for prayer and celebration at this year’s Southern Baptist Convention. This is the original intention of Baptist cooperation in particular. What might be impossible for a single local church, becomes doable by the grace of God with a few thousand churches.
Ironically, being part of a denomination might demonstrate greater unity in the body of Christ. As opposed to an isolated Bible Church, a church submits to being part of an extensive collaboration of local churches. This will bring at times respect and at other times reproach on your church, but the church commits to the association nevertheless.
My church is dual affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention and the American Baptist Church, USA. Both organizations make me cringe at times by their resolutions, or by public statements of representatives. Both denominations also bring expanded ministry opportunities. To leave them would not be a sign of unity, but further division.
Look beyond your denomination
For all the good and bad that might be said about denominations, we should be mindful of the need to peek out over the fence to see the unity of the whole church. Be intentional to connect to other Bible-believing, Gospel-centered churches in your area that are not part of your denomination. Share illustrations about Christians doing outstanding ministry around the world who are different. Get together with other like-minded clergy to pray. Whether Baptists, Anglican, Congregational, or Evangelical Free, “all are yours, and you are Christ's, and Christ is God's.” (1 Cor 3:22-23).
Rick Harrington is a pastor at First Baptist Church - Haverhill in Massachusetts and the Provost of the (upcoming) BCNE Multiplication Center. He is the author of the books "How to Find a Church: Seven Steps to Becoming Part of a Spiritual Family" and "The Weight of Preaching: Heralding the Gospel of Grace".