Churches of Christ
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- The Churches of Christ discussed in this article are not part of the United Church of Christ; the Disciples of Christ; the International Churches of Christ; the Church of Christ, Scientist (Christian Science); the Church of Christ (Latter Day Saints) or any other denomination within the Latter Day Saint movement; the Churches of Christ in Australia; the Fellowship of Churches of Christ in the United Kingdom; the Associated Churches of Christ in New Zealand; or the Philippines-based Iglesia ni Cristo.
The Churches of Christ are non-denominational, autonomous Christian congregations. These churches comprise about 2,000,000 members in over 15,000 individual congregations worldwide.[1]
Churches of Christ generally emphasize their intent to simply be part of the original church established by Jesus Christ in his death, burial, and resurrection, which became evident on the Day of Pentecost as described in the New Testament in Acts 2. Churches of Christ emphasize the use of only the New Testament to find doctrine, ecclesiastical structure, and moral beliefs, while maintaining that the Old Testament is also the inspired Word of God, is historically accurate, and that its principles remain true and beneficial (although its laws are not binding under the new covenant in Christ unless otherwise taught in the New Testament).
Churches of Christ in the United States are historically connected to the Restoration Movement championed by American preachers/theologians of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, most notably Thomas Campbell and his son Alexander Campbell, Walter Scott, and Barton W. Stone. These and other leaders from various denominations were seeking original Christianity as they were independently finding several beliefs, practices, and restrictive dogmas in their respective church traditions to have no biblical basis.
Members of the churches of Christ point out that throughout church history many have sought a return to the simple, original Christianity that is "pre-denominational" and unbound by the decisions of councils or denominational hierarchies. Rather than basing doctrine on the interpretations of post-first century church fathers, ecclesiastical councils, or more modern denominational synods or conventions, they use only the Bible as their official source of doctrine. This also allows for the Bible to be open for continual examination and interpretation from congregation to congregation and from Christian to Christian.
These views are based on the conviction that the church is a spiritual body, rather than a secular or political one. Furthermore, that God demonstrates in the New Testament how a person may become a Christian, thus a part of the church, and how Christians may collectively organize and carry out the purposes of the church which Christ established. Also realized is that Christians can do this without any prior knowledge of other churches of Christ as different groups practicing this form of Christianity have discovered one another without any prior connection (e.g., different segments of what became known as the Restoration Movement; early, ante-Nicene churches).
Today, churches of Christ usually have the following distinctive traits: the refusal to hold to any creeds other than the Bible itself (i.e., sola scriptura); the practice of repentance and believer's baptism in Christ's name as the response to receive forgiveness of sins and the Holy Spirit (e.g., Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16); autonomous, non-denominational congregational church organization, with congregations overseen by a plurality of male elders; the weekly observance of communion/eucharist (i.e., the Lord's Supper); and the practice by most congregations of a cappella worship singing (although several related congregations use instruments while keeping these other practices - also known as Christian Churches).
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[edit] Church Population in the U.S.
There are approximately 1.3 million members in the United States with approximately 13,000 congregations.
[edit] Self-identification
Members do not consider themselves either Catholic, Orthodox, or Protestant. They hold to the biblical and historical reality that the church was founded by Jesus Christ, and that its doctrines and practices were established long before these other traditions, movements, structures, councils, etc. The church therefore biblically, historically and spiritually transcends these other entities that developed later within denominationalism. Members also do not typically consider themselves to be members of a denomination, but prefer to simply be "Christians" (in contrast to, for example, a Catholic, Presbyterian, Baptist, etc.), with no other religious title needed or even authorized. Thus, a collective group of Christians is a church of Christ (e.g., Romans 16:16).
[edit] History in America
[edit] Restoration Movement
The American Restoration Movement of the 18th and 19th centuries was an emergence of seekers who perpetuated ideals that have existed throughout church history regarding inspired truth over ecclesiastic tradition or dogma. This movement was in some ways similar to the Reformation and was sometimes referred to as "the new Reformation." The Restoration Movement promoted a return to the purposes of the first century churches as described in the New Testament and is considered by some historians to be part of the Second Great Awakening. One major impetus of the movement was the Kentucky Cane Ridge Revival in 1801, which resulted in many from various traditions no longer holding to their denominational ties and referring to themselves simply as "Christians" or "Disciples." Several churches of Christ were established as a result of this revival, with some denominational congregations even dropping their traditional titles in favor of "Church of Christ," "Disciples of Christ," or "Christian Church." While ever emphasizing that the Bible is the only source to seek doctrine, an acceptance of diverse opinions was the norm in the quest for truth. "In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity" was an oft-quoted slogan of the period.[1]
The movement was actually the result of several smaller groups converging because of the same truths and ideals each were independenly seeking. It solidified as a historical phenomenon in 1832 when restorationists from two major movements championed by Barton W. Stone and Alexander Campbell merged (historians thus often refer to it as the "Stone-Campbell Movement"). Following Stone's death in 1844, Alexander Campbell served as the most influential surviving voice.
- See also: Restoration Movement
[edit] Historical Connection to Christian Churches and the Disciples of Christ
Modern churches of Christ and Christian Churches are very similar (the primary difference being a cappella worship in churches of Christ) and, depending on the tenor of each local congregation, maintain communication and fellowship. In contrast, what is today known as Disciples of Christ is very different, has developed into a denominational entity, and no longer embraces Restoration Movement ideology (although its evolution has obvious historical roots in the Restoration Movement).
During the first century of the Restoration Movement, all three of these titles were commonly used for congregations. As interpretations, convictions, and preferences regarding a cappella and instrumental music distinguished congregations, the a cappella churches typically used "Church of Christ" to identify themselves while instrumental churches used "Disciples of Christ" or "Christian Church" as designations. In 1906, the U.S. Census for the first time made a distinction of two groups between the a cappella and instrumental churches (this was also the result of other issues related to the Civil War.
The development of the Disciples of Christ denomination was the later result of many within the instrumental church embracing liberal Protestant ideologies that many others would not accept. Thus, those who refused to accept such separated and typically refer to themselves as Christian Churches, leaving the Disciples of Christ designation to the others who eventually organized into that named denomination which exists today. Churches of Christ and Christian Churches are identical in many ways, though with the major difference on a cappella versus instrumental worship practices. In contrast, the Disciples of Christ denomination has embraced much of the theologically liberal ideas that are found in many other Protestant traditions.
[edit] Variations within Churches of Christ
Since churches of Christ are not denominational and purposefully do not maintain an ecclesiastical hierarchy or doctrinal council (as the Bible alone is held as the only source to find doctrine), it is not unusual to find variations from congregation to congregation. For example, some allow for a more open interpretation regarding worship and other church practices, while others hold to a stricter interpretation. How much fellowship and cooperation that will exist between those of varying opinions depends on each member and local church. Congregations and members are free to study the Scriptures and to the best of their abilities determine God's revealed will. This allows for liberty in the continual seeking of God's revealed will. Yet, the majority of churches of Christ have the similarities mentioned in the prior introduction.
[edit] International Churches of Christ
This body of churches is not tied to the Church of Christ but began as an offshoot. For further information see International Churches of Christ.
[edit] Church of Christ Emergent
It appears that the response of some congregations to postmodern thought has produced another movement within the main group, though this is not a formally distinguished body. See the article on Church of Christ Emergent.
[edit] Church organization
[edit] Congregational autonomy
Church leadership is congregational rather than denominational. The churches of Christ have no formally recognized headquarters, councils, or hierarchal church government. Rather, the independent congregations are a network with each congregation participating at its own discretion in various means of service and fellowship with other congregations.
[edit] Congregational leadership
Each congregation is overseen by a plurality of elders (also known as shepherds/pastors or overseers/bishops) who are assisted in the administration of various works by deacons. Elders and deacons are chosen from the men of the congregation based on the qualifications found in I Timothy 3 and Titus 1.
Distinct from the foregoing responsibilities (and contrary to the denominational idea of a "pastor") is the work of the preacher . While churches of Christ promote the biblical concept of the priesthood of all believers, congregations generally have well-trained and educated men who publically proclaim the gospel and are most commonly referred to as ministers, preachers or evangelists. Churches of Christ also emphasize, however, that each member is a servant, that no believer is more important than anyone else, and that all should use the gifts he or she has to serve others.
[edit] Hermeneutics
Churches of Christ believe in sola scriptura. Interpretive approaches to scripture may vary somewhat from congregation to congregation as churches of Christ are not bound to a creed, catechism or denominational council. The emphasis is to find doctrine only in the Bible. Regarding biblical historicity and literalism, Churches of Christ are quite conservative and generally see the Bible as historically accurate and literal, unless scriptural context obviously indicates otherwise. Regarding church practices, worship, and doctrine, there is great liberty from church to church in interpreting what is biblically permissible, as congregations are not controlled by a denominational hierarchy.
Some believe God only binds people to the explicit commands of New Testament scripture, meaning that anything commanded must be obeyed in its proper and obvious context but that anything not expressly forbidden is allowable and open to interpretation and preference. Others have a more stringent view of Scripture, believing that only what is expressly commanded, given as an approved example, or indicated as obvious by inference is allowable as a practice in the church. The latter view means that if something is not specifically mentioned and approved of in the New Testament, then the church should not take the liberty of doing it. There is much variety that exists from congregation to congregation between these two ideologies. This approach, which is related to the non-denominational/autonomous nature of the church, allows open interpretation for the uninhibited search and discovery of the original meanings of biblical texts. Yet, churches of Christ tend to be uncannily similar in their biblical interpretations regarding salvation, morality, and the seriousness of worshiping God. The liturgy or form of worship is also strikingly similar in congregations, although the style might vary in different locales.
[edit] Doctrine of Salvation (Soteriology)
Churches of Christ teach the biblical doctrine which is common in most evangelical churches - that humans are lost in sin but can be redeemed because Jesus Christ, the Son of God, offered Himself as the atoning sacrifice. The difference between churches of Christ and most other evangelical churches is the teaching on how one receives this salvation. Churches of Christ adhere to scriptures such as Mark 16:16, John 3:3-5, Acts 2:38, Acts 22:16, and others, which indicate that the original teaching of Christ and His inspired writers was that salvation occurs when one submits to Christ in baptism. In contrast, most evangelicals today teach that simple belief without this response, or quoting a sinner's prayer to receive Christ will suffice. Churches of Christ almost unanimously reject these notions, and this rejection is based on the New Testament purposes of baptism. Furthermore, baptism is only for those capable of believing in Christ and repenting of sin as these are the only instances of baptism in the Bible (i.e., no infant baptism as infants are not mentally able to comprehend this and are considered to be innocent). Baptism is also only by immersion as this was the only mode demonstrated in the Bible (i.e., the New Testament Greek term baptizo always meant to immerse; Romans 6:1-5 provides illustration). Some would also point to the historical reality that until the 16th century the concept of salvation without baptism was unheard of and that this counter teaching was only promoted after being developed by Swiss reformer Huldrych Zwingli and further perpetuated by John Calvin.
[edit] Other Theological Tendencies
Some would label Churches of Christ as typically Arminian, although members do not usually embrace this term and often disagree with certain tenets. The Catholic concept of Original Sin and the Calvinistic ideas of total depravity, predestination, etc. are generally rejected as doctrines that are not found in Scripture but were later innovations. Election and predestination are functions of the exercise of free will. Those who choose God's way through Christ are elect and therefore saved while those who reject Christ are lost in their sin. Furthermore, the popular notion of "once saved, always saved" (perseverance of the saints) is rejected. It is generally held that, although not the norm, a Christian can consciously elect to cease following Christ and hence be lost ("fallen from grace").
Regarding eschatology, Churches of Christ are generally amillennial, although a few congregations hold premillennial interpretations.
[edit] Basis of a cappella worship practice
Since there is no evidence to indicate that the first century church used instruments in worship, and because all New Testament scriptures that command or refer to worship in song only mention singing, the Churches of Christ have historically followed this tradition. It is also pointed out that in all of church history, instrumental music in worship was not practiced until the sixth century, hence the Italian word a cappella (as the chapel). The level of conviction regarding a cappella only worship varies from church to church. To some this is a preference, a good interpretation, and an embraced tradition but is not binding on others because there is no command in Scripture that forbids instruments in worship. To others, the silence of the Scripture is clear: to worship with musical instruments is to add to God's Word.
[edit] Elsewhere
The Churches of Christ in Australia are the Australian Stone-Campbell group, and are named after the movement's name at the time of its founding. Of the three current US groups, they are closest in belief and practice to the Disciples of Christ. A similar New Zealand group is the Associated Churches of Christ in New Zealand.
Most of the Churches of Christ in the UK became part of the United Reformed Church in 1981. Most of the remaining became the Fellowship of Churches of Christ.
The Australian and New Zealand groups planted churches throughout the Pacific Islands, the United Kingdom group planted churches throughout the British Empire, and the American groups planted churches throughout the Americas and the rest of the world. These groups often used the name "Church of Christ" and were affiliated with the other churches of that name. While a few such churches still exist, many have merged with other groups.
[edit] See also
- Early Christianity
- Category:Churches of Christ
- Category:Ministers of the Churches of Christ
- Category:Universities and colleges affiliated with the Church of Christ
- List of famous people with Restoration Movement ties
[edit] Notes
- ^ Rollmann, Hans. "In Essentials Unity: The Pre-history of a Restoration Movement Slogan", Restoration Movement Quarterly, 39:3. Abilene, Texas: Abilene Christian University.
[edit] External links
Please refer to this page's link policy prior to posting links.
[edit] General websites
- BiblicalElders.com - a website dedicated to the teaching of NT Church Government
- Churches of Christ Online
- churchofChrist.info
- Church of Christ Network
- Church of Christ Internet Ministries
- The Old Paths Archive - Written & multimedia material by members of churches of Christ.
- New Testament Christianity
- Truth for the World
- A Burning Fire - Online sermons
- Lads to Leaders- Training program for youth.
[edit] Online print media
- Christian Courier - Investigating biblical apologetics, religious doctrine, and ethical issues.
- Apologetics Press - Publishes materials defending a literal interpretation of creation in the Bible.
- Focus Press - Publisher of Think magazine. Discusses modern day issues.
- Seek the Old Paths - An online/printed magazine used to defend the Truth and teach others.
- House to House/Heart to Heart - An online/printed magazine used to teach both Christians and non-Christians.
- The Christian Chronicle - A newspaper of the Churches of Christ.
- Restoration Quarterly - Magazine devoted to study of the Restoration Movement and Churches of Christ.
- Truth Magazine - A monthly publication from what would be regarded as a "conservative" or "non-institutional" viewpoint.
[edit] Online TV/Radio stations
- WSOJ - Gospel Radio
- Gospel Broadcasting Network (GBN) - "A satellite network, broadcasting the truth and nothing but the truth, 24 hours a day, seven days a week."
- Totally Acappella Radio
- The Workman - The Most Biblically Accurate Christian Talk On The Net!
- Church of Christ Radio
- In Light of the Word
[edit] Directories
- ChurchZip - Global Directory of 38,822 Churches of Christ with maps and geographical search capabilities."
- Churches of Christ Online - Locate local US Church Websites with Thumbnail views by State. Just click on the map.
- Church of Christ Online Network - An Online directory of US Churches of Christ web pages
- Singapore Churches of Christ -
- Global Directory of Christian Universities Affiliated with the Churches of Christ
- Worldwide Church of Christ Locator
- Directories of churches of Christ
[edit] History and sources
- Historical Texts, Images, and Interpretations of the Restoration Movement: Disciples of Christ, Christian Churches, Churches of Christ
- TheRestorationMovement.com
[edit] Church of Christ search engines
- Conservative Church of Christ Engine
- Church of Christ Music Engine
- Churches of Christ Zip Code or Place Name Engine
