Beyond Christian denominations and sects

David J. Lose makes an observation about the body of Christ that many of us feel:

Bottom line: while I love my denominational heritage and am all for a robust theological identity and spirited theological conversation, I’d give up denominational identity and structure in a heartbeat if it meant a more unified, comprehensible, and compelling witness to the Gospel.

He also has the best answer for what needs to happen:

But I do know it’s time to raise these questions and initiate a conversation about mutual collaboration and mission that runs far beyond anything our parents or grandparents would have dreamed possible.

In other words, there are no easy answers, but putting our heads together and having a honest discussion is necessary.

Over the course of my life, I have been a member of Presbyterian, Baptist, Methodist, United Church of Christ, and evangelical churches. Each, in its time and place, was a blessing. I have also worshipped with friends at houses of worship for virtually every other flavor of Christianity in existence. I heard music and watched rituals that moved me. I heard sermons that inspired me. And none of it changed how I felt about God. At the end of the day, I follow Christ. That is the only brand that matters.

Pastor Lose identifies five reasons why denominations and sects are falling short of a body that serves Christ as well as possible.

1) Denominations are confusing in a post-Christian world and often an impediment to mission.

2) The differences between the major denominations are relatively minor.

3) Inordinate amounts of funding are spent on maintaining denominational structures and bureaucracies, money that could be spent on mission.

4) Political differences outstripped theological ones decades ago.

5) Denominational affiliation often represents the triumph of ethnic and cultural loyalties over theological convictions.

All of those criticisms ring true. Diversity is a blessing unless some pretend to be morally superior. Bureaucracies and hierarchies are more about obedience to religious authorities rather than to God. In a triumph of Mammon, the body of Christ has been torn apart by secular politics and political ideation. Tribal mentality creates in-groups and out-groups. In short, Christ often takes a backseat to our own desires, attitudes, and values because these are the forces that give rise to denominations and sects.

Pastor Lose is basically asking how we can search our souls without gazing at our navels or strapping on body armor. The fact that many seem to be thinking along the same lines means that there is a critical mass for action. The fact that younger generations are walking away from faith means we collectively have fallen short of effective witness for God's love. The fact that we face enormous challenges because of overpopulation, resource depletion, economic injustices, and poor stewardship of God's creation means more will be spiritually broken and living in despair.

It is a curse to live in interesting times. It can also be a blessing if we can find a way to work together.