The Non Denominational Movement of Christians

Some of the young adults of today are involved in a non denominational movement that seeks churches based on their needs and not on denomination. Some people are confused on what exactly these needs are and how the movement was able to meet these needs. This article discusses the meaning of the term "non denominational", its tenets, basic criticisms, and rebuttals toward this movement.

Non denominational is a term among Christians referring to churches, like the non denominational churches in Lexington KY; and institutions, not formally supportive of a particular denomination. These churches are not aligned with any denomination and are officially independent from standard congregations. However, even if they are not part of a certain denomination, this does not disqualify them from creating a code or standard that can identify them among the many non denominational congregations.

These congregations, like the non denominational churches in Lexington KY have established themselves with a means of worship, policy, and a doctrinal base. As compared to other churches, the difference lies in the oversight and external direction of these churches where you can find nothing. In fact, some non denominational churches readily reject this as a matter of principle which means that each congregation to them must remain autonomous. Their basic forms of independent structure can either be theological where their beliefs are considered unique; and political, as the congregation has not established central headquarters.

Members of these churches like the non denominational churches in Lexington KY; are called simply as Christians though required to have a “de facto” identity based on their doctrines, which may be patterned from a particular practice or doctrine. This will still show that non-denominational churches are defined through the practices and beliefs of denominational churches. Though their practices are considered unique, most are still taken from denominational tenets across the centuries. That’s why they are criticized with their dual nature where some are said to be autonomous only in name but not in practice.

It is believed that though their general move is toward a more ecumenical church body, others see it as a marketing ploy. They only call themselves non-denominational so that they can increase their number of members. This practice focuses on the quantitative response instead of the quality of the church as a community; although this practice is found to be quite rare.

The non denominational movements were also criticized in the sense that they are not focused on the spiritual growth of their members. It has been observed that they encourage ignorance of the scriptures leading to reduction of religious literacy hence increasing the potential for religious conflict and misunderstanding. But still, the rise of the non-denominational churches is still ongoing, especially among young adults and the youth. They can see that the practices in these churches are non-threatening and they can practice their spirituality outside the perception of conventional denominationalism. But people still insist that this movement should be investigated further on the way it changes the religious standards of our country.