I love me some Southern Baptists.I went to visit my brother in Dallas a few weeks ago, and went to his church one Sunday, which happens to be Southern Baptist. He is the interim worship leader at this church, so one of the pastors introduced me in front of the entire congregation, and told them that I was studying Biblical Studies at Covenant College. Everyone I met was warm and loving when they met me, which reminded me of the universality of the body of Christ. You could go across the world and be welcomed as a family member in various circles. There just so happens to be one thing that screws up the beautiful picture.
Denominations.
Don't get me wrong here, I understand why denominations exist and the purpose they serve. I just lament the fact that they do. If it were not for denominations, perhaps churches would be even more torn and bitter over doctrinal issues than they are now. And yet, because of denominations, millions of believers simply do not speak with each other.
After that church service in Dallas, one of the pastor's wives approached me and kindly made conversation with me.
"Which college are you at again?" she asked.
"Oh, hello. Covenant College. It's a Presbyterian school right outside Chattanooga, Tennessee."
"Presbyterian?"
"Yes ma'am. It's affiliated with the PCA."
"So...are you studying to become a Presbyterian minister one day?"
"Umm, something like that," I said, unsure of how to answer.
"Well, I sure hope not."
"Exuse me?" I asked, genuinely wondering if she was being sarcastic or not.
She wasn't.
"Presbyterians. You sprinkle babies, don't you?
"Well, that's an issue of minor concern for me that I really am not adamant..."
"You know they're not Christians....the babies, I mean."
"Well, we see sprinkling as a sign of the Covenant found in the Old Testament. I can assure you, the PCA truly tries to uphold Scripture to the best of it's ability."
"Baptists do too!"
"I agree, I actually was Baptsist for 15 years of my life."
She then decided to end cordially after theologically drilling me, "Well anyway, it's nice to have you visit us. I hope you enjoy the rest of your stay in Dallas!"
I must say, I was confused to say the least. I kind of laughed it off and went on with my day. But I continue to wonder, how many churches are filled with members who really believe their denomination is the saving grace of the Christian faith--God's chosen means of carrying on orthodoxy. Oh how deceptive is the human heart!
If we could only see the beauty of Christ's worldwide Church, with the sobering realization that we have much to learn from our brothers and sisters--even when if they aren't favored by God enough to be in our denomination.
