What is denominationalism?
What Is Denominationalism?
A Biblical and Baptist Perspective
Denominationalism refers to a system in which Christian churches are organized into separate groups or denominations based on differences in beliefs, practices, or traditions. While denominations can help unite congregations of similar convictions, denominationalism often has a more negative connotation, implying an overemphasis on denominational differences to the point of exclusivity or division. Denominationalism, especially in its negative sense, is problematic for the unity of the Body of Christ, as it can create barriers within the Church and detract from the ultimate goal of glorifying God and spreading the gospel.
What Is a Denomination?
A denomination is an organized body of churches united by shared doctrinal beliefs and practices. For instance, the Southern Baptist Convention, the Presbyterian Church in America, and the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod are denominations. These groups often have governing bodies, confessions of faith, and distinct theological emphases that unify their member churches.
While denominationalism refers to devotion to a denomination, it can sometimes lead to an exclusive attitude that sees one’s denomination as superior to others or the only legitimate expression of Christianity. This exclusivity often blurs the distinction between minor theological differences and core biblical truths.
The Danger of Divisive Denominationalism
While denominations themselves are not inherently problematic, the spirit of divisiveness that can accompany denominationalism is contrary to Scripture. Paul rebukes this kind of division in 1 Corinthians 1:10-13:
"Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. For it has been declared to me concerning you, my brethren, by those of Chloe’s household, that there are contentions among you. Now I say this, that each of you says, 'I am of Paul,' or 'I am of Apollos,' or 'I am of Cephas,' or 'I am of Christ.' Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?"
The church in Corinth was dividing into factions based on their loyalty to specific leaders, effectively creating the seeds of denominationalism. Paul admonished them to prioritize their unity in Christ over their personal preferences.
Jesus Himself addressed this sectarian attitude among His disciples. In Mark 9:38-40, John said,
"Teacher, we saw someone who does not follow us casting out demons in Your name, and we forbade him because he does not follow us." But Jesus said, "Do not forbid him, for no one who works a miracle in My name can soon afterward speak evil of Me. For he who is not against us is on our side."
Jesus’ response underscores the importance of focusing on His mission rather than on exclusivity. Just as Jesus rebuked John for sectarianism, so we must resist the temptation to think God’s work is limited to one group or denomination.
Biblical Principles Regarding Unity in the Church
The Bible is clear that the unity of the Body of Christ is of paramount importance. Paul exhorts believers to strive for unity in Ephesians 4:1-6:
"I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all."
From this passage, we see that unity in the Spirit should be prioritized above all else. While doctrinal differences exist, we must remember that all true believers are part of the same Body of Christ.
When Separation Is Necessary
While unity is a biblical mandate, there are times when separation is required to maintain doctrinal purity. Paul warns against those who distort the gospel in Galatians 1:6-9:
"I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed."
The gospel is non-negotiable. Any deviation from the core truths of Scripture, such as the deity of Christ, salvation by grace through faith, or the authority of God’s Word, must be rejected. Believers must separate from those who preach a false gospel, as John instructs in 2 John 1:10-11:
"If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him; for he who greets him shares in his evil deeds."
The Role of Denominations Today
Denominations often arise due to differences in secondary issues, such as:
Mode of Baptism – Immersion vs. sprinkling.
Church Polity – Congregational governance vs. elder-led systems.
Eschatology – Pre-millennialism vs. amillennialism.
Worship Practices – Use of instruments vs. a cappella singing.
The Lord’s Supper – Frequency and method of observance.
These differences, while important, should not overshadow the unity of believers in the gospel. As long as there is agreement on the essentials—the person and work of Christ, the authority of Scripture, and salvation by grace through faith—Christians in different denominations should seek to respect and collaborate with one another.
Avoiding Denominationalism
To avoid the divisive spirit of denominationalism, believers must cultivate humility and focus on Christ’s mission. In Philippians 1:27, Paul encourages the church to:
"Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel."
Peace within the Body of Christ is a fruit of the Spirit. Galatians 5:22-23 reminds us that:
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law."
When peace rules our hearts, unity naturally follows. Colossians 3:15 encourages believers to:
"Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful."
Conclusion
Denominations themselves are not inherently wrong, as they allow for diverse expressions of worship and practice within the bounds of biblical orthodoxy. However, denominationalism becomes a problem when it fosters exclusivity, pride, or division. Born-again believers must prioritize unity in the essentials of the faith while respecting differences on secondary matters.
As Baptist theology affirms, the gospel is paramount, and we must contend earnestly for the faith (Jude 1:3). By allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us, we can avoid the pitfalls of denominationalism and focus on the ultimate goal of glorifying God and proclaiming Christ to the world.
