What do you think of denominations? I see the denominations as a divisive and counter to Jesus’ prayer in John 17. In this chapter Jesus is praying for unity for all the would believe. He obviously knew that the church would have a problem with this.
I don’t believe that there is necessarily a blue print laid out in Scripture for what a church is supposed to be, but there are examples. I am tired of churches being run like businesses with clever marketing schemes. I simply want the truth. I have a Bible degree, but have had a hard time of finding what the purpose/design of the church is. Anyhow, maybe you can give me some insight into.
Also, what does Biblical discipleship look like? Thanks.
There are several references to the problems caused by division in the church, and in Romans 16:17-18 Paul warned us to avoid people who cause them. In 1 Cor. 1:10, 3:1-9, & 11:17-19 Paul explained the problem with divisions in the church.
I believe the Church serves a three-fold purpose, to worship God, to study His Word, and to promote fellowship among believers, but it’s hard to find one that limits itself to just this.
I think Biblical discipleship is described best in Colossians 1:6-10
“All over the world this gospel is bearing fruit and growing, just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and understood God’s grace in all its truth. You learned it from Epaphras, our dear fellow servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf, and who also told us of your love in the Spirit. For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God.”
Paul’s prayer in the last verse sums it up nicely; Living a life worthy of God, bearing fruit on every good work, and growing in your knowledge of God.