So I see all these different denominations saying they are all Christians, how can this be? Not everyone is a Christian just because they say so right?

So what is the answer?

4/4/2011 1:00:38 AM by little rebel, Member of Delve into Jesus since 4/4/2011

It does not necessarily bother me that we have so many denominations among the mainstream Protestant churches. I find that most of these fall easily into the realm of what I call "Christian" (which is to say placing their faith in the man who is also God called Jesus alone for redemption and salvation) even though some adopt beliefs and practices which I find at odds with my own interpretation of the Bible, particularly around baptism, marriage, sexuality and other issues like this. Rarely is it some extremely important issue such as the fact that Jesus is God, or the mistaken belief that Jesus is just one of many ways to salvation. Sometimes, the division is less about belief and interpretation, and more about worship style which I think is fine. It allows people to find just the right church that fits how they want to worship.

On the other hand, there are some religions which call themselves Christian but yet are so far from my own beliefs that I cannot agree that they are in fact "Christians". Mormons and Jehovah's Witnesses are two that come to mind.

So, clearly there is this line that can be crossed where, if you stray too far from what I believe, then you are no longer Christian in my mind, but exactly where that line is drawn I am not sure. It's a judgment issue, and others may drawn it more liberally or conservatively than I do. It's a good question!

4/6/2011 6:46:25 AM by Michael Lane, Executive Director, Delve Christian Ministries

Thank you for your thoughts...

A people divided cannot stand;very true with believers. The slander that is done even by Pastors is sickening in my opinion. When I see people spending their time slandering instead of learning the truth, there is a huge problem.

Men have made all these denominations because they want their own opinions to be right. They have made it about themselves instead of Christ.

It's a very simple plan in my opinion, read Christ, follow HIS teachings; if one is praying and has that sincere relationship with Christ then one cannot be mislead.

"Pride" goes before a fall, that is what the Word says. Eve became puffed up and so she sinned then Adam followed along.

Seek Christ and not man, that is the simple key.

Religions are ALL man made, Believing in Christ is just what it says, "a belief"...

Humans complicate everything when they seek to "add" their own wants and desires into what Christ taught.

What are your thoughts on all this?

Thank you

4/6/2011 10:48:22 AM by little rebel, Member of Delve into Jesus since 4/4/2011