Denominationalism or Pluralism? by Barry Grider I once heard the late, great evangelist Andrew M. Connally say, “Denominationalism is of the devil and all who remain in such until death will be lost.” While this may offend many, including some members of the Lord’s church, it is a most accurate and compelling bible truth. Simply stated, our Lord did not die for denominationalism. He built His church (Matt. 16:18 ); shed His blood for His church (Acts 20:28 ; Eph. 5:23 ); is the head of His church (Acts 2:30-32 ); and will save His church (Eph. 5:25 ). Since there is one body (Eph. 4:4 ), faithful preachers have always condemned divisive and devilish denominationalism. However, within the ranks of denominationalism itself, there has long been much to debate as various religious groups sought to defend their erroneous doctrines by means of Scripture. At least these proponents of error should be commended for trying to prove their beliefs by the bible and for being convicted enough to try to win people to their way of thinking. Today, however, there is a growing tendency away from denominationalism to something perhaps even worse, pluralism! Instead of religious bickering and infighting, all the religious groups are being persuaded to put unity ahead of doctrine and come together on “common ground.” While it would be a most marvelous thing to see all the denominations give up their errors and unite together on God’s Truth, this is not what is in mind. Pluralism calls for all religious groups, including those outside of “Christendom,” to see the value in each existing group and to tolerate all opinions in our diverse culture, that one might see the benefits offered by each group. This is not to say there has never been unity in diversity before. For example, various denominational groups have always stood united in their opposition toward the Lord’s church. Yet, in recent times we see more toleration and acceptance of error and more retaliation toward the Truth. Unfortunately, the church of Christ has not been spared from the doctrine of pluralism. Notorious statements that have been made by heretical teachers, such, as “Anytime I hear someone call God ‘Father,’ I see a brother,” demonstrate how far astray some have gone in order to attain pseudo-unity. More and more, we have brethren who are involved in the ecumenical movement through sharing pulpits with various denominational preachers, conducting youth devotionals with other religious groups, etc. These meetings for sure are not intended to teach the lost the Truth. Such brethren must be reminded of the words of the apostle Paul, “And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them” (Eph. 5:11 ). Often these promoters of union with every denominational stripe appeal to Jesus’ prayer for unity in John 17 . yet, this so-called unity movement stands in direct contrast to Jesus’ prayer. No, it was not the intention of the Lord to have everyone just getting along, respecting the whims and opinions of each other, and forgetting allegiance to His divine Truth. Truth is exclusive, not inclusive. It is, by its very nature, narrow (Matt. 7:13-14 ). So what should be our attitude toward pluralism? The same as it has been toward denominationalism. Remember the words, “Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds” (2 John 9-11 ). May our constant plea be unity, but unity that is authorized by the god who says, “the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable…” (James 3:17 ).
Posted on: Tue, 30 Jul 2013 09:28:26 +0000
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