What Does Non-Denominational Mean
To be non-denominational, means to follow after Christ and His words. "And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father" (Colossians 3:17). Thus, if one strives to be nondenominational, one would seek the approval of Christ. This makes sense, in light of the fact, that it is Christ who saves. In John 6:68 we read, "Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life." In this verse, Peter asks a question and then answers it, by saying that Christ has the words of eternal life. Hence, if Jesus has the words that save, does it not seem reasonable to turn to His words--the New Testament?
To be non-denominational in worship means to practice what Christ has spoken in the New Testament. In John 4:24, Jesus teaches us that " For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth." Thus, in our worship you will find:
Teaching: Acts 20:7 and Acts 2:42
Prayer: Acts 2:42; 1 Thessalonians 5:17 and Ephesians 5:20
Singing: Ephesians 5:19 and Hebrews 2:12
Lord's Supper: Acts 20:7 and Matthew 26:26-30
Giving: 1 Corinthians 16:1-2 and Acts 11:29
To be non-denominational would involve the people being one, as Jesus prayed, "I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. 21 I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me." (John 17:20-21)
As Paul pleaded with the church at Corinth, "I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose. For some members of Chloe’s household have told me about your quarrels, my dear brothers and sisters. Some of you are saying, “I am a follower of Paul.” Others are saying, “I follow Apollos,” or “I follow Peter,” or “I follow only Christ.” Has Christ been divided into factions? Was I, Paul, crucified for you? Were any of you baptized in the name of Paul? Of course not!" (1 Corinthians 1:10-13).
To be non-denominational means to be one with Jesus and not divided. May we always strive to be right with God and pleasing in His sight.