Which Christian denomination would best suit my beliefs?

Question

I am more of a liberal Christian. I do not believe assigning vast generalizations and taking what Christ taught way out of context. In the mannor that I do not see how anyone could get the idea that any non-believer would be sent to Hell, this is not what Christ tought. I do not even know if I believe in a Hell. I do not like how many Christians judge others, this seems to be a trait of the more conservative brances. I believe in doing a life of good, letting my actions speak for me.

I am thinking methodist from what I have studied, but what do you guys think?

Yes, obviously it does matter. I want to feel like part of an organization, I think religious groups can do great things for the community and even on a larger scale if they put their mind to it.

No sir, I believe you are the one that is misinformed. Jesus never mentioned Hell.

He said the only way to the Father is through Him, I do not see how anyone could get if you don't accept Jesus in this life you are going to a burning hell from that.

"Real Christis"? Again, you are just judging people and taking what Christ took out of context. Well, thanks for all those who actually inputed.

Answer 1

LOSER!

Answer 2

I was raised Methodist and I'll say they do mention hell a time or two but the "born saved" part I guess i missed. Freethinking is permitted. Even if I go now I find the sermons tend to be aimed more at important moral lessons than sales pitch for repentance and/or blind faith. I've seen and heard some relatively progressive actions from individual Methodist churches.

FWIW, I'm a weak Atheist - no heaven, no hell, god is impossible to prove so let's assume not and basically the bible itself is written by men from Genesis to Revelations so it's not really divine or even beyond skepticism. I just want to be a better person.

Answer 3

James,

There's only one Bible. Try and find a bible-teaching ministry and focus as little as possible on denominationalism.

The very foibles that Christians suffer from daily that affect others (like sitting in a seat of judgement that doesn't belong to any Christian anywhere) are the basis of denominational structure. It had to be set up as a "politbureau" of sorts.

There is a lot of controversy surround "hell" and the apocalyptic eschatology. Start with a sound, biblical ministry - you're smart enough to learn, then decide.

Sound doctrine should be your deciding factor, and that can vary within a denomination just about as much as outside denominations.

Answer 4

You might like Methodism, but Methodist theology tends to vary on the liberal/conservative spectrum based on region of the country. We certainly don't believe in predestination. We are from John Wesley, but some don't care anymore. We do believe in allowing people to think and don't try to force them into a small box.

You might also consider the United Church of Christ (UCC) - I understand they have many similar beliefs to Methodists but are more liberal.

Answer 5

TRUE Christianity believes that the Bible is the ultimate truth. You can't bargain with it. Whether you believe it or not, it doens't change the truth. If you admit yourself a Christian, how come you don't believe in hell?? Study the Bible, ask God to teach you. Then find a denomination which applies the Word of God (the Bible) without any compromise!

Answer 6

Good for you as you are on your way in search for God's will in your life. Don't give up.

Which Christian denomination would best suit your belief?

You have already stated that you are looking for a church to suit "your beliefs".

You already have your sets of beliefs, I guess no church that can 100% suit your sets of beliefs because everyone has their own opinions and everyone is different.
The next logical step to take would be to start your own church.

As for me, I would go back to the root of Christianity. I would go back to the first church and practise obedience as Christ was obedient even unto death.


In the end, it is all about love. How much do you want to love God?

Answer 7

All Christians (i.e. denominations) make up the body of Christ. My spin on it is that not all parts are the same...but absolutely all of them are necessary....(assuming, of course, they rely on the bible). It's also my understanding that the biggest differences in denominations lie with how each recognizes the sacraments and how each church governs itself.

The bible tells us to fellowship and love one another. So I am with you on the need to be part of corporate worship. My suggestion is simple... pray about it and expect an answer. The church that is right for you is probably not the one that is right for me. God uses people from a world of different backgrounds for His good purpose.

The hard part for me hasn't been finding a church....its been staying with it after the newness wears off and the flaws begin to show themselves. It's being willing to participate and serve for Christ. Afterall, we are trying to get along with a whole bunch of other people in a situation that is deeply personal .... keeping the focus on God, honoring and giving glory to Him....and off my grand ideas about what could be done better, sooner or more efficiently.... that's the real deal. I read recently that there are now 3200 denominations of Christianity.... is it me or do you think the enemy is having a hay-day stirring up debates about whose got it most right?

Answer 8

I am thinking Methodist too. I grew up a Methodist, and one thing that is really nice about the Methodist church is that you are allowed to think for yourself. Everyone does not have to agree. And I personally find the life story of John Wesley to be very touching and educational.

Answer 9

Christian,Buddhist

Answer 10

Episcopalian

Answer 11

Methodist isn't generally considered "liberal". Maybe Presbyterian?