Quote:
Originally Posted by YP0534
I would have to disagree with this, Ohio.
Some purely independent congregations fairly clearly practice a species of denominationalism. There is no requirement to have a regional, national or international headquarters to separate oneself from general Christianity in an exclusive and named group (although, a headquarters does pretty clearly indicate the existence of a denomination!)
The word "denominate" simply means "to give a name".
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Denominations have much more than a "name." They are systems of teachings and practices, unified by a bishopric, which becomes the defacto headquarters over time. In fact, a denomination can exist without a name. The Brethren were famous for being "nameless," yet the exclusives (nicknamed Peebs) became the most pernicious of aberrational sects.
One poster had a great signature line like, "
tell me again about the church with no name suing for the rights to a name." LSM has played the "name-game" for decades, ensuring their legitimacy as "God's best." I was tired of that debate. Let's define what denominations really are.
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Purely independent congregations" may practice a "
species of denominationalism" when their leaders are bound by inherited traditions and ordinances, but there are no extra-local influences mandating these ordinances upon their members. They can return to the "pure word." They can seek fellowship. They can change. Hence, there is hope.