In the first century, there was only one church.  Christians in different locations were united by a common faith, common teachings or doctrine, and by a common form of worship.  There were congregations at Jerusalem, Corinth, Rome, Ephesus, Antioch, and a number of other places.  That which separated them was geography, not different teachings and practices.  But that was then....

 

In the 21st century, things are a lot different in the religious world.  Now there are a wide variety of churches, teachings, practices, and forms of worship.  But, did you know that the majority of groups who claim to be Christians are actually less than 600 years old?  Believers in the first century were not Baptists, Lutherans, Methodists, Presbyterians, etc.  Neither were they "Catholic", despite the claims of the various groups who call themselves "catholic" in one form or another. 

 

The Bible teaches that Jesus was only ever going to build (establish) one church:  "...I will build My church..."  Matthew 16:18, and that He died to save only that one church:  "Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her"  Ephesians 5:25.  Quite clearly then, not all the churches today can be the one that Jesus built.  The implication of this is worthy of our deepest consideration.

 

The church of the New Testament is not a denomination. (To denominate means to divide up into smaller subgroups).  The apostle Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, pleaded, "...let there be no divisions among you.."  (see 1 Corinthians 1:10-13).  The New Testament church is "pre-denominational".  

 

The concept of non-denominational or pre-denominational Christianity which the church of Christ espouses, is to do away with all man-made teachings, creeds, and traditions that have developed over the years.  In other words, unless a teaching or practice can be found in the New Testament, we don't hold to it or teach it.  Our aim in life and in worship is to peel back centuries of man-made traditions and opinions and just follow the New Testament.   This is what early Christians did BEFORE (pre) they started dividing (started denominations). 

 

Would you like to know more about the New Testament church?  We invite you to join us on the Lord's Day for Bible study and worship.  We would be happy to study with you and answer your questions.  In addition, please check the resource and study material on our Resources page, as well as the scriptures listed on this page.  You will find a wealth of reliable material to aid you in your inquiries.