Joyful

There are tons of denominations in the Christian community. It seems that there are denominational wars going on too. When you go into Christian forums you always find arguments going on between different denominations. God does not want us to compete over members. We are supposed work together for the Lord.

Banarenth

I agree completely, but also, I've seen many cases of syncotheism as well, so it's a fine line. We, as Christians should be able to discuss our differences. Discuss, not fight. It's getting rare these days to find people who know the difference.

Joyful

That's right. As Christians we should be able to talk everything to other Christians without any taboos. Most christian forums are operated by the mainstrem churches. They have the rules just for mainstreams' benefit. In most cases if you don't agree with the mainstrems, you will be banned easily without any explanations. This is the reality and the fact.

Struick

Yes, Christians should not fight, but how can one not fight when you see, to use a example, homosexuals in leadership positions in the church?

Joyful

As Christians we should not fight like the world. We can express our convictions but we should not force our faith to anyone. Jesus does not force Him to anyone. Following Him has to be volunteer and not forced.

שׁמע ישׂראל

Lol...

"Follow me, or be destroyed."

Of course not forced... buuuuuut.

Denominations arrise, in my opinion, where scripture is given freely to the layman. Now some instantly stand up and want to shout "heresy! free bibles for everyone!" but I'd have to make note of a few things.

1.) When a layperson gets their hands on scripture and studies it without proper training in analysis, they form many, many, false doctrines.

2.) When a layperson gets their hands on a new altered translation without the guidance of a seasoned student of the Word whom knows where translations are altered and how to convey the message, many, many, false doctrines arrise.

Etc. etc.

To those who state in defence of everyone having their own scripture "the Spirit leads the person in understanding the scripture", I'd like to reply "certainly, if that person is led".

If they want to command everyone to have their own scripture, I'd suggest looking at all the demoninations started by a man/woman/person and their bible.

Shalom

Struick

I did not say we should. But what I'm saying is that one should be prepared to defend scripture if a church goes off track. When a hired man leads the flock astray we should speak up and expose his falseteachings or whatever unscriptual issues he is pushing. If there's no result, shake the dirt of your feet and go elsewhere to worship.

Joyful

Yes, we should be prepared to answer as much as we can. When we cannot we should get someone who can. We should never let them go away empty handed. But If people start to refuse to listen to you, you should not force them to listen to you. Jesus says let them hear who wants to hear.

Joyful

You are talking about completely different situation.

Struick

Of course not.