Why didn't the various Protestant churches merge since they preach the same bible?

Question

is it more for personal church glory or really for god?

Answer 1

First, it should be noted that most denominations agree that our differences are far outweighed by our common beliefs.

And while much is made by non-Christians about our disagreements, among ourselves we look at our disagreements as being basically a minor family squabble.

For example, I'm a United Methodist. We're in what is called "full communion" with a number of other denominations, and are working towards that with several others. That essentially means that while each denomination retains its individual name and governing method, we recognize each other's members, preachers, etc...

So, in many cases, the differences are simply in tradition and in the way we run the church, not in our theology.

Sometimes, however, there are theological differences. As United Methodists, we consider the Bible to be inerrant, but we recognize that our understanding of it is not.

While some parts of the Bible are written as definitive fact, other parts are clearly parables, written to teach. Still other parts may or may not be.

(Was there an actual "good Samaritan", or was that a teaching story Jesus used to make a point to his disciples? Does it matter?)

Even when we have differences between denominations that are too big to simply ignore, we still find ourselves with more agreement than disagreement.

Most of the major Christian denominations cooperate. The World Council of Churches includes denominations covering most of the world's Christians.

We have common goals, and routinely work together towards them.

If a Baptist, or an Episcopalian, or a Lutheran, or a Presbyterian, or an Assemblies of God member, or a non-denominational Christian, or any number of other Christians comes into our church, they will be welcomed as brothers and sisters in Christ, and if I walk into one of those churches, I have no doubt that I will be welcome as well.

The order of worship may be a bit different, and I may not know when they traditionally stand and sit during the service, but it really won't matter.

To them, to me, or to God.

Answer 2

The various Protestant churches did not (and probably will not) merge, because each division (Baptist, Methodist, Pentecostal, etc.) interprets the Bible in a different way. For example, Baptists believe full submersion is the only acceptable form of baptism, where as Methodists baptize similar to Catholics (with a simple sprinkling). From my understanding, Pentecostal people believe women must wear dresses and never cut their hair, and other divisions of the Protestant religion don't feel the same way.

Answer 3

that's why i like non denominational Christan churches. they dont pick and choose sections of their bible to base the church on they preach on the bible. some are for personal glory just look at the size of the church and the type of car the pastor drives. if they both are extravagant well there u go.

Answer 4

Correction - they each preach their own interpretations of the same Bible. And that makes them as different as they can possibly be, because trying to define truth by personal interpretation of the Bible simply doesn't work. This is why they fragmented into conflicting denominations in the first place.

Answer 5

Differing rituals, interpretations, church politics, ways to worship, & other minor reasons.


but look at 1 Corinthians 12:12-31 & Romans 12:4-5

Answer 6

There are many arguements on diffent importan doctrines. If everyone interpreted the Bible literaly then this would almost disappear.

Answer 7

Because since the writings are non-descript and full of parables, the intent is open to mans interpretation. Hence changes are made where interpretation is given.

Answer 8

Because us Christians just love to argue with each other over pretty silly things...there is no true denomination except to follow Christ. Denominations are derisive and unbiblical.

Answer 9

just the individualistic ideas of a few men along the way.....i.e. some spereated from the lutheran way because they didn't think that it was true that they were, during the sacrement, literally eating the flesh of jesus and literally drinking the blood of jesus. Some felt it was more a symbolic act, while the lutherans felt it was literal....kinda gross if you think about it.

Answer 10

I think they interpret the bible differently.