In a recent Baptist News Global article, editor Mark Wingfield noted, “The future of Christianity in America is not to be found in denominations of any kind. It will be found in networks and affinity groups.”
Almost from the beginning of the American nation, denominations have been the driving force behind the spread of the Gospel and the birth and development of churches. Each denomination has:
- Encouraged a (particular) doctrinal stance.
- Offered those of their tribe the opportunity to identify with a larger group of people.
- Supported clergy leaders in various ways.
- Organized to engage Christians of their faith in the work of mission and evangelism.
- Provided Christian education resources.
- Called out and educated clergy.
As a student of history, I must acknowledge that some were more eager to embrace these tasks than others. It often took an act of rebellion or external work on the part of clergy and laity to bring these tasks to fruition before their denomination would assume responsibility.
The 20th century was undoubtedly that Age of the Denomination in America. Adopting both the technology and techniques available, denominational structures used the substantial resources available to them to serve the churches and wield cultural influence.
However, there have always been alternative organizations or affinity groups with specific missions that stood outside denominational structures, often providing innovations or paths to cooperation that the denominations lacked. Some examples are the YM and YWCA, Wycliffe Bible Translators, campus ministries like Campus Crusade and InterVarsity, Sojourners, the Catholic Worker Movement, The Willow Creek Association, and Fresh Expressions.
In the 21st century, many factors have led to the proliferation of the networks and affinity groups that Wingfield mentions: denominational controversy, social and political forces, stronger and larger local churches, new means of communication and collaboration.
At the core of these movements is the individual congregation—the local expression of a faith community. This is a time of potential, turmoil, and promise for each church. Leaders must decide whether is this frightening or empowering.
There is a saying: “Sometimes when things are falling apart, they may actually be falling into place.” The times provide opportunities for renewal and rebirth in Christian ministry if we are ready to act.
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