Sometimes looking at what is happening in the denominational world creates a lot of questions in an observer’s mind, and the answers may not be readily obvious. Consider the following examples.
Some denominations assemble for their services on Saturday. Other denominations assemble for their services on Sunday. Still others offer assemblies on Saturday and Sunday. Which way is right? Are any of these right?
Some denominations baptize babies before they can talk. Other denominations wait to baptize someone when they can talk and decide the matter on their own. Which way is right? Is either of these right?
Some denominations baptize by sprinkling water over someone’s head. Other denominations baptize by dunking the person under water. Some choose to pour water over the subject, and still others have been known the scatter rose petals over them instead of water. Which way is right? Are any of these right?
Some denominations utilize both men and women in the leadership of the church, and services are conducted equally by both genders (including children). Other denominations choose to use men only in such positions. Which way is right? Is either of these right?
Some denominations ask for donations every Sunday and offer communion quarterly. Other denominations require contributions weekly and offer communion nearly once a month. Still others allow the clergy to determine the frequency of the communion and the clergy alone are permitted to administer it. Which way is right? Are any of these right?
The listing of differences could go on and on (as you well know). Looking at the denominational world sure creates a lot of questions. But, how can we find answers? Is it sufficient to merely lay one denomination’s creed book next to the other for comparison’s sake? The trouble with that approach is that you would still be comparing the thoughts, beliefs, practices and traditions of men in one group with the thoughts, beliefs, practices and traditions of men in another group. And, you still haven’t found a real answer.
Consider this. Jesus said that He has all authority (Matt. 28:18) and that His Words must be our standard today (Col. 3:17), for they will be the only standard on judgment day (John 12:48). Thus, man (in all of his wisdom) has no authority. So, the question that must be answered FIRST in any attempt to determine right and wrong is, “What does the Bible say?”