As long as we're talking...Here's the case FOR denominations in the the church

Read BEFORE you jump to conclusions...or label me a hairy tick.

Obviously, I see some redeeming values in what are usually called "Denominations" or I wouldn't be writing this. It's a tough topic. Very tough. I am just as concerned about why so many people disdain them as I am in arguing for their support. I am well aware of the problems within the more traditional church structures in mainline and evangelical bodies.

For one thing, a lot of people feel disenfranchised by the more traditional structures. Understandably so.

A lot of people feel as if the Lord has been locked out of the church by many Denominations. Understandably so.

However, there are as many difficulties with many Non-Denominational faith families, as well. Because of the lack of structure inherent in the very nomenclature, this is just as understandable.

My observation of a lot of non-denominational families is that some of them reject all oversight and/or correction. Simply put, there is no Bishop or group of Elders in place at all, let alone one that can provide oversight or needed discipline. The only qualification to lead a lot of non-denominational churches is the ability to gain followers. There simply isn't anyone to judge whether the leader meets Biblical guidelines for leadership. My concern is that a lot of them only exist because someone or a group of someones didn't want accountability wherever they worshipped previously.

A great solution, in my view, are Spirit-filled denominations such as the Assemblies of God or the United Methodists. They seem to do a great job combining the Liturgical with the Charismatic. One thing that I appreciate about Spirit-filled denominations is that it takes more than a "calling" to mount a pulpit. Even with the calling, there is preparation required. This is in line with Biblical teaching. A lot of people seem to have a distaste for denominations based upon limited exposure, in my view. I have worked with a worshiped in a number of them. Everybody doesn't have it wrong. Many churches have it quite right!

Also, denominations existed in the New Testament in a sense. They weren't called "COGIC" or "Baptist" but some variations in worship are necessary simply due to geography, some due to having different leaders. Paul advised us to remember that we are all of the family of God, who gets the increase, and that we should not quarrel about our differences. Paul, Peter and Apollos certainly had different teaching styles/approaches.

All traditions aren't bad.

(BTW, there is a lot of value in the traditional hymns and some GREAT THEOLOGY, too. I guess the best of all worlds would be modern arrangements of traditional hymns from time to time. I know for a fact there is some very bad theology in a lot of modern Christian music in the name of trying to be "free" and "relevant" to these times.)

To quote a friend: "Solid Biblical teaching, leadership in love, and Holy Spirit filled worship is not an option--it is MANDATORY!" Such things ARE happening in some denominational churches the same way they ARE MISSING from a lot of non-denominational churches.

These are just a few thoughts.

How about your thoughts?