What Is A Non-Denominational Church?

Discovering Your Place: A Hope-Filled Guide to Non-Denominational Churches!

God has an amazing plan for your life, and part of that plan is finding a church family where you can grow and flourish! The world of churches is wonderfully diverse, and maybe you’ve heard about non-denominational churches and wondered, “What are they all about?” These churches are a vibrant and growing part of God’s kingdom, and many people are finding a fresh connection with God in them. But it’s natural to have questions: What do they believe? How do they work? Where do they fit in the big picture of Christianity?

Get ready to be encouraged! This article is here to shine a light on those questions. We’re going to explore ten common questions about non-denominational churches, drawing on lots of good information to give you a clear and hope-filled understanding. We’ll look at what they are, how they started, what they believe, how they’re led, and so much more. So, let’s step out in faith and discover together!

What Exactly Is a Non-Denominational Church? It’s Simpler Than You Think!

Alright, let’s talk about what a non-denominational church really is. Think of it this way: it’s a Christian church that operates with a spirit of independence, choosing not to formally join up with one of the big, established church families, like the Baptists, Methodists, Presbyterians, or Lutherans.¹ That term “non-denominational” just means they’re “not denominational” 1 – they’re stepping out on their own path, guided by God. This beautiful independence means they’re not under the specific rules or traditions of a larger church group.³

A wonderful thing about these churches is their freedom to govern themselves. They get to make their own decisions about what they believe, how they worship, how they reach out to others, and how they run things, all at the local church level.² They’re generally not answering to outside groups like regional offices or national committees.⁴

Many non-denominational churches have a deep desire to focus on what they see as the pure, foundational truths of Christianity. You’ll often find a strong emphasis on having a personal, living relationship with Jesus Christ and holding up the Bible as the ultimate guide and source of truth, rather than relying heavily on specific denominational statements or long-held traditions.¹ Some are inspired to pattern their church life after the very first churches we read about in the New Testament, before all the big organizational structures came along.²

Even though “non-denominational” tells you what these churches aren’t (part of a big denomination 1), it’s really become a positive identity all its own. This label often signals a fresh approach to living out your faith, one that usually includes vibrant, contemporary worship, a direct focus on God’s Word, and that wonderful independent spirit.² When churches choose to be non-denominational, they’re often making a deliberate, faith-filled choice to step away from some of the formal statements and established customs of other Christian traditions.¹ And in doing so, they’re creating a unique and special kind of Christian experience that many people are drawn to, people who are looking for a particular way to express their love for God. This active choice, this step of faith, is what makes “non-denominational” a distinct and meaningful identity for so many.

It’s also good to know that “non-denominational” is a big umbrella that covers a wonderful variety of churches. While some are truly and completely independent, others might choose to connect in looser partnerships or networks with other churches that share their heart and vision.⁷ You might hear about groups like the Calvary Chapel Association or Acts 29, which might share resources, have similar beliefs, or work together to plant new churches.⁷ This means that the level of “non-affiliation” can look a little different from one church to another. So, being “non-denominational” doesn’t always mean being all alone; there can be all sorts of informal or formal connections. These connections can offer some of the same blessings as denominational structures, like fellowship and working together on God’s mission usually without that top-down control. It’s just another way God works, bringing His people together in diverse and beautiful ways!

How Did Non-Denominational Churches Get Started, and Why Are So Many People Blessed by Them Today?

God works in amazing ways throughout history, and the story of non-denominational churches is a testament to His guiding hand! Their popularity today is a sign that people are hungry for a genuine connection with Him.

God’s Hand in History

While you could say that even before the big changes of the Protestant Reformation, there were churches operating with an independent spirit, outside the main religious groups 4, they weren’t called “non-denominational” back then. A really major starting point, especially in North America, was a powerful move of God called the Stone-Campbell Restoration Movement. This happened in the late 1700s and early 1800s. Leaders like Thomas Campbell and Barton Stone felt God calling them to return to the simple, powerful Christianity they saw in the New Testament. They wanted to move away from the things that divided denominations and from man-made rules. They encouraged believers to simply call themselves “Christians” or “Disciples of Christ,” putting the focus on the local church being free to follow God and the Bible as their only guide.⁴

Then, in the middle of the 1900s, the Jesus Movement swept through, and it added even more energy to this non-denominational spirit. This revival was all about a personal, heartfelt experience with God, contemporary Christian music that lifted your soul, and a more relaxed, joyful way of doing church – all things that fit perfectly with the non-denominational heart.⁷ Throughout the 1900s and into our current century, that desire for freedom and a focus on what many see as the core teachings of Christianity led to more and more independent churches starting and growing.² Especially in the late 1900s and early 2000s, these churches saw incredible growth, often at the same time that some of the older, mainline denominations were seeing their numbers go down.⁴ It was like a fresh wind blowing!

Look at What God Is Doing! (Statistics on Growth)

The growth of non-denominational churches in the United States has been truly remarkable – a sign of God’s blessing! Between 2010 and 2020, it’s reported that these churches grew by about 2 million attendees and added around 9,000 new congregations. That made them the third-largest religious group in the country, right after Catholics and the Southern Baptist Convention.⁹ Another report from that same time showed an increase of 6.⁵ million people attending non-denominational churches and over 4,000 new churches like this being started.¹⁰ And more recently, research from Pew (2023-24) shows this wonderful trend continuing. Even Although the number of people identifying as Christian overall in the U.S. Has seen some decline, the percentage of Americans who are part of non-denominational Protestantism is actually growing! This is happening even as many traditional Protestant denominational groups have seen their share of the population get smaller.¹¹ God is definitely up to something good!

Why People Are Drawn to Them Today

So, what is it about non-denominational churches that is blessing so many people today? Here are some of the wonderful reasons:

• A Hunger for Simplicity and Authenticity: Many people are looking for what they feel are the “foundational teachings of Christianity”.² There’s often a focus on that personal, vibrant relationship with Jesus Christ, rather than on complicated rituals or doctrines that some people connect with older denominations.¹ It’s about getting back to the heart of it all!
• Freedom to Follow God’s Leading (Flexibility and Adaptability): Because they’re independent, non-denominational churches can shape their worship, their programs, and their outreach to perfectly fit the needs of their own congregation and their local community. They can often make changes or start new things without having to get permission from a big, faraway organization.¹ This means they can be quick to respond to where God is leading!
• Joyful, Uplifting Worship (Contemporary Worship Styles): Many non-denominational churches have modern music, use multimedia in exciting ways, and have a more relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. This kind of worship often really connects with younger generations, like Gen Z and Millennials, who might not feel as engaged by more traditional church services.² It’s about worship that feels alive and relevant!
• A Welcoming Heart (Inclusivity and Welcoming Environment): These churches often put a big emphasis on creating a place where people from all sorts of backgrounds feel welcome and loved.² The focus is usually on being united in Christ, rather than on denominational labels that might feel like they exclude some people. Everyone is welcome in God’s house!
• Seeking a Fresh Start (Disillusionment with Denominations): Some people leave denominational churches because they don’t agree with certain social stances, or they feel there’s a political leaning within the denomination 1, or they find the doctrine or practices too rigid 8, or they’re just tired of disagreements within the denomination.⁴ When people move from denominational churches to non-denominational ones (sometimes called “sheep swapping”), it’s one reason these churches are growing.⁹ They’re looking for a new beginning, and God is providing it!
• Embracing Personal Choice (Individualism): Our culture today often values individual choice and personal expression. The freedom and autonomy that non-denominational churches offer can really resonate with these values.² God made you unique, and He wants you to connect with Him in a way that’s meaningful to you!

The amazing growth of non-denominational churches isn’t just because of all the wonderful things they offer, like contemporary worship or flexible beliefs. It’s also because some people are feeling a “push” away from denominational settings. Some individuals feel that older denominations have gotten too caught up in social issues that lean a certain political way 1, or they just feel too restrictive.⁸ For example, research shows that some mainline Protestant denominations saw members move towards more conservative churches because they felt the denominations themselves were becoming too worldly, or because they disagreed with more progressive views on theology or social issues.⁹ This shows that the rise of non-denominationalism is a dynamic thing – people aren’t just being drawn to the unique blessings of these independent churches, they’re also moving away from things in their previous church experiences that didn’t feel right for them. God is leading His people!

A big reason why early non-denominational movements, like the Stone-Campbell Restoration Movement, got started was a deep desire to get past all the denominational divisions and find a greater sense of Christian unity, based only on the Bible.⁴ But here’s an interesting thing: now we have thousands of independent non-denominational churches, and each one can develop its own specific ways of understanding and doing things. Although the goal was to get beyond the old divisions, some people say that this independence can lead to a new kind of variety. For instance, a theologian named Stephen Prothero has said that sometimes non-denominationalism can cover up some of the basic theological and spiritual issues that caused divisions in Christianity in the first place, all under the idea of “Christian unity”.¹ The ability of non-denominational churches to “customize their beliefs and practices to whatever doctrine and creeds they deem appropriate” 1 can lead to a wide range of theological views 1 and a broad spectrum of beliefs that might be a bit confusing for people who are looking for clear answers.⁸ So, that original desire for unity by not using denominational labels might, in some ways, lead to a very diverse and possibly disconnected landscape of independent churches, with each one defining Christian unity in its own way. This makes us think about what true Christian unity really looks like and how it’s expressed. But isn’t it amazing how God can work in so many different ways?

The fact that non-denominational churches are often drawing in younger people and those from more diverse racial backgrounds 7, as well as those who value making their own choices 2, shows that these churches are really connecting with the way our culture is shifting today. Their typically less hierarchical, more relational, and super adaptable way of doing ministry and worship 2 fits so well with what people today are looking for – authenticity and personal connection. Non-denominational churches are often described as being younger and more racially diverse than some of the older, established denominations.⁷ Younger generations, like Gen Z, are said to find them appealing because they embrace individual expression, have flexible ways of thinking, offer contemporary worship, are active on social media, and have leaders who often feel like relatable friends.² Similarly, Millennials are reported to appreciate the focus on relationships rather than on old institutional traditions.² This tells us that for many people, choosing a non-denominational church isn’t just about theology; it’s also a cultural fit. And that’s a big reason why they’re growing so quickly compared to some of the more traditional, institution-focused denominations. God is reaching every generation!

What Core Beliefs and Common Practices Unite Most Non-Denominational Churches?

Even though non-denominational churches are known for their wonderful independence and variety, there’s a beautiful unity in the core beliefs and common practices that many of them share. These generally line up with what we call evangelical Protestant theology, and it’s all about God’s amazing love and truth!

The Bible: God’s Unchanging Word

Almost every single non-denominational church holds the Bible in the highest regard. They believe it’s God’s inspired, perfect, and ultimate guide for everything concerning our faith, our beliefs, and how we live our lives each day.¹ When you go to these churches, you’ll find that the sermons, the teachings, and the whole direction of the church are usually based right on what the Bible says.⁸ There’s often a focus on the Bible itself, more so than on the specific traditions, creeds, or catechisms of a particular denomination.¹ Some people in non-denominational circles believe that really complicated doctrinal statements made by denominations can sometimes take away from the simple, powerful message of God’s Word.² They want to get straight to the source – and that’s the Bible!

Foundational Truths They Cherish

While each church might have its own specific statement of faith, most non-denominational churches hold tightly to these fundamental Christian truths:

• Our Amazing God: They believe in one true God who has always existed and always will, in three persons: God the Father, God the Son (Jesus), and God the Holy Spirit. This is what we call the Trinity.⁴
• Jesus Christ: Our Savior and Lord: They affirm that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, and that He is fully God and fully man. This includes believing in His miraculous virgin birth, His perfect, sinless life, the incredible miracles He performed, His sacrificial death on the cross to pay for our sins, His powerful bodily resurrection from the dead, His ascension into heaven, and His promised personal return in glory! 2 What a Savior!
• Salvation: God’s Free Gift: They emphasize that salvation is a wonderful gift from God, and we receive it by His grace, through our faith in Jesus Christ alone. This often includes stressing how important it is to personally turn away from sin (repentance) and make a commitment to follow Christ (personal conversion).⁵ It’s all about His grace!
• The Holy Spirit: Our Helper and Guide: They believe in the Holy Spirit as the third person of the Trinity. The Holy Spirit shows the world its sin, gives new life to believers, and empowers us to live godly lives and serve Him. Views on how the Holy Spirit specifically works and the gifts He gives can vary. Some non-denominational churches are charismatic or Pentecostal in their practices, while others are not.⁴ But all believe He is at work!
• Humanity and Sin: Our Need for a Savior: They acknowledge that God created human beings in His own image we have all fallen into sin, and that sin separates us from God and means we deserve His judgment.⁴ But thank God for His solution!
• Heaven and Hell: Our Eternal Destiny: They believe in an afterlife, with eternal joy and reward in heaven for those who are saved through faith in Jesus Christ, and eternal separation from God in hell for those who are not.⁴ This makes our choice for Christ so important!

Beautiful Expressions of Faith (Common Ordinances/Sacraments)

Non-denominational churches generally practice two main ordinances (some call them sacraments), which are beautiful ways to express our faith:

• Baptism: This is the practice of baptizing believers, usually by immersing them in water, as a public declaration of their faith in Jesus Christ. The specific understanding and way it’s done can vary.² It’s a powerful symbol of new life!
• Communion (The Lord’s Supper): They regularly observe the Lord’s Supper (breaking bread and drinking the cup) to remember Christ’s sacrificial death for us. How often they do this and the style of the observance can be different from church to church.² It’s a precious time of remembrance and gratitude. Practices related to these ordinances are often similar to what you’d find in non-episcopal Protestant churches. The emphasis is on their biblical basis rather than on elaborate or prescribed rituals.²

A Personal, Living Faith

A strong focus on developing a personal, vibrant relationship with Jesus Christ is a hallmark of these churches.² People are usually encouraged to study the Bible for themselves, to pray, and to actively pursue spiritual growth.⁸ It’s all about walking with Jesus every day!

Wonderful Variety in God’s Family

It’s so important to remember that “non-denominational” is a very broad term. Although the beliefs and practices we’ve talked about are common, the specific doctrinal positions and how they’re understood can vary quite a bit from one local church to another.² Each non-denominational church usually develops its own statement of faith, which outlines its particular theological views.¹⁵ Some non-denominational churches might lean more closely towards specific theological streams within Protestantism, like Evangelicalism, Pentecostalism, or Charismatic Christianity, even if they don’t formally belong to these movements.⁷ God uses all kinds of expressions of faith!

While non-denominational churches clearly say they don’t follow formal denominational creeds, the core beliefs they so often uphold—like the Bible being the ultimate authority, the doctrine of the Trinity, Jesus being God and rising from the dead, and salvation being by grace through faith—are deeply in line with mainstream evangelical Protestant theology.⁴ This suggests that there’s often an unspoken “evangelical agreement” that serves as the real doctrinal foundation for many of these churches. Many non-denominational churches can be seen as part of broader movements like Evangelicalism.⁷ So, while they might be formally “creedless” in a denominational sense, a strong, informal commitment to these widely accepted evangelical distinctives gives them a common theological ground. This makes their doctrinal positions less random than the phrase “no creed but the Bible” might sometimes make it sound. There’s a shared heart for these foundational truths!

A major reason people are drawn to non-denominational churches is the desire to “return to the foundational teachings of Christianity, free from the doctrinal… Affiliations that established denominational churches had accumulated over time” 2 and to avoid what some see as “complex doctrinal principles”.² This search for simplicity is very appealing to many who want a faith centered on a “relationship with God over ritual or dogma”.² But this emphasis on simplicity could, in some cases, lead to an oversimplification of complex theological issues or a overlooking of the rich historical and theological thinking that denominations often preserve and pass on. Critics like Stephen Prothero argue that non-denominationalism can sometimes ignore “the primary theological and spiritual issues that originally drove the division of Christianity into denominations”.¹ Another scholar, Amy Plantinga Pauw, has noted that non-denominational congregations “often seem to lack any acknowledgement of their debts and ties to larger church traditions” and may, in effect, be “living off the theological capital of more established” Christian traditions.⁷ This suggests that the valued simplicity, if not carefully balanced, might sometimes come at the cost of theological depth or historical awareness. It could potentially lead to a faith that leans more towards what Prothero described as a “general moralism” rather than a robust engagement with the fullness of Christian doctrine.⁷ But isn’t it wonderful that God gives us wisdom to seek Him in both simple faith and deep understanding?

While non-denominational churches often position themselves as moving away from “tradition” in a denominational sense 6, they still selectively keep and practice core Christian traditions like baptism and communion.⁴ These are ancient practices that are central to our Christian faith! The key difference is where they get their authority for these practices: non-denominational churches typically look for justification for them directly from Scripture, independent of a denominational line or mandate, rather than by following the “customs of a distinct church”.¹ This shows that it’s not a complete rejection of all tradition rather a re-evaluation and a re-grounding of selected traditions based on what they believe the Bible teaches. It’s all about honoring God’s Word!

What Are the Key Differences When Comparing Non-Denominational and Denominational Churches?

Understanding the differences between non-denominational and denominational churches can help you make a faith-filled choice about where God might be leading you to connect and grow. The main distinctions are in how they’re governed, how specific their doctrines are, their accountability structures, and the resources they have. It’s all part of God’s beautiful, diverse family!

Who They’re Connected To (Affiliation and Governance):

• Denominational churches are part of a larger, specific Christian church family, like the Methodist, Baptist, Presbyterian, or Lutheran denominations. These larger families have a distinct identity, a shared set of beliefs, and often a structured system that provides oversight and direction to the local churches.¹ They’re part of a bigger team!
• Non-denominational churches, on the other hand, are wonderfully independent and not formally connected with any larger denomination. They govern themselves, with decisions about beliefs, worship, and ministry made right there at the local church level.¹ They’re charting their own course with God!

What They Believe and Who Says So (Doctrinal Specificity and Authority):

• Denominational churches typically follow a set of core beliefs, doctrines, and traditions that are established and shared by the whole denomination. These are often written down in formal documents like creeds, confessions of faith, or catechisms.¹⁷ The Bible is understood and taught within this established denominational framework. They have a shared playbook!
• Non-denominational churches generally emphasize the Bible as the main or only authority for faith and practice.¹ While they hold to core Christian beliefs, they have more freedom in how they interpret Scripture and may not follow specific denominational creeds. Doctrines are defined and shared by the local church leadership.² They’re going straight to the Source!

Keeping Things on Track (Accountability Structures):

• Denominational churches usually have established ways of being accountable through the denominational structure. This structure can offer support, guidance, help with resolving conflicts, and even step in if issues come up in a local church or with its leadership.¹⁷ There’s a support system in place!
• Non-denominational churches mainly rely on internal ways of staying accountable, which rests with the local church leadership (like the pastor and elders) and sometimes the congregation. The lack of formal external oversight is a key thing that makes them different.⁴ They trust in God’s guidance and internal wisdom!

Help and Support (Resources and Support Systems):

• Denominational churches often have access to a wider range of resources provided by their main organization. This can include leadership training programs, curriculum for Christian education, established ways to support missions, educational materials, and sometimes financial help or legal advice.¹ They have a big network of support!
• Non-denominational churches, being independent, might have more limited resources, especially if they’re smaller. But some larger non-denominational churches or those connected with informal networks can be very well-resourced and do amazing things for God! 1 God provides for His work!

Ways of Worship (Tradition and Liturgy):

• Denominational churches often have well-established traditions, worship styles, and ways of doing services that have been passed down through the history of the denomination.¹⁷ They cherish their heritage!
• Non-denominational churches tend to be less formal and more flexible in their worship styles, often preferring contemporary approaches to music and how the service is structured. They might create their own local traditions or feel less tied to historical ones.² They’re often creating fresh expressions of worship!

Preparing Leaders (Leadership Training and Ordination):

• Denominational churches typically have standard requirements for ordaining ministers and for leadership training. This often involves specific educational degrees from accredited seminaries and following the denomination’s rules.
• In non-denominational churches, the requirements for pastors and leaders can vary a lot. Pastors may or may not be formally ordained through a recognized process, and their educational backgrounds and training can be quite different.¹⁷ God calls and equips leaders in many ways!

Handling Finances (Financial Transparency):

• Denominational churches are often required by their main organization to have open business meetings where financial records are shared with the congregation.¹⁴
• Non-denominational churches are not necessarily bound by such outside rules; how transparent they are with finances depends on the policies and practices set up by the local church leadership.¹⁴ They strive for integrity in all things!

Here’s a simple way to see these distinctions:

Denominational vs. Non-Denominational Churches at a Glance

Feature	Denominational Church	Non-Denominational Church
Governance & Affiliation	Part of a larger organization (e.g., Methodist, Baptist) with shared identity and hierarchical oversight.17	Independent, self-governing; decisions made locally; not formally tied to a larger denomination.2
Doctrinal Authority	Adheres to doctrines and traditions of the parent denomination, often using creeds; Bible interpreted within this framework.17	Emphasizes Bible as primary/sole authority; doctrines defined by local church; may not use formal creeds.1
Accountability	External accountability through denominational hierarchy; provides support and intervention.17	Primarily internal accountability (pastor, elders, congregation); lacks formal external oversight.4
Resources & Support	Access to resources from parent body (training, missions, materials).17	Resources depend on local church size/giving; some larger churches/networks are well-resourced.1
Tradition & Worship Style	Often follows established denominational traditions, liturgy, and worship styles.17	More flexible; often contemporary worship; less bound by historical traditions; styles vary widely.6
Leadership & Ordination	Standardized requirements for ordination and leadership training.	Varies widely; pastors may or may not be formally ordained; diverse educational backgrounds.17
Financial Transparency	Often required to have open meetings and show financial records.14	Depends on local church policy; not necessarily bound by external rules for transparency.14

The main difference between these two approaches often comes down to a choice between freedom and framework. Non-denominational churches generally offer more freedom and local control 14, allowing them to shape their ministry directly to their unique situation. On the other hand, denominational churches typically provide a more established framework of doctrine, accountability, and resources 17, which can offer stability and broader support. Neither way is better than the other; they just represent different philosophies of how to organize a church and cater to different priorities. Your choice often reflects whether you prefer adaptability and local control or the stability and support network of a denomination. Trust God to lead you to the right fit for you!

It’s also good to know that sometimes people can have mistaken ideas about these differences. For example, one source suggested that non-denominational churches don’t give as much importance to Scripture as denominational churches do.¹⁹ But, that’s directly contradicted by so many other sources that confirm non-denominational churches almost always emphasize the Bible as their ultimate authority! 1 That particular claim seems to have come from a sponsored piece and might not be an objective or widely held view. This just shows how important it is to look at individual churches based on what they specifically teach and practice, rather than relying on broad generalizations that might not be accurate or true for most. As you seek God’s will, be aware that these varying, and sometimes not quite right, descriptions exist. Always go back to God’s Word and seek His wisdom!

Are Non-Denominational Churches Biblical, and What Does the Bible Teach About Church Unity?

When we ask if non-denominational churches are “biblical,” it often brings up different ways of understanding what the New Testament shows us about church life and what Christian unity really means. Let’s look to God’s Word for wisdom!

Why Many Believe a Non-Denominational Approach Lines Up with Scripture:

Those who champion the non-denominational model often point to several wonderful things in New Testament teaching and practice:

• Focus on the Local, Free Church: It’s argued that the New Testament mainly shows us local, self-governing churches rather than big, hierarchical denominational structures.³ From this viewpoint, each local church was accountable directly to God and its own leadership, not to an outside denominational group.³ They were free to follow God’s leading!
• The Bible as the Only Guide: The strong emphasis on Scripture alone (Sola Scriptura) as the ultimate guide for faith, doctrine, and how we live is seen as lining up closely with what the Bible teaches. This approach tries to avoid adding human-made denominational creeds, traditions, or rules that might be seen as taking precedence over or clouding the Bible’s authority.¹ It’s all about God’s Word!
• “Christian” – The Only Name We Need: Some believe that believers in the early church simply called themselves “Christians” or “disciples,” without the later addition of denominational labels. Movements like the Stone-Campbell Restoration Movement aimed to bring back this simpler identity.⁴ United in Christ!
• Freedom from “Man-Made” Divisions: From this perspective, denominations are sometimes seen as man-made divisions that go against Christ’s expressed desire for His followers to be united.²² It’s pointed out that the Bible itself doesn’t specifically mention or endorse the idea of denominations as we know them today.²² Seeking true unity!

What God’s Word Says About Church Unity:

The Bible speaks so powerfully and consistently about how important unity is among believers:

• Jesus’ Prayer for Us to Be One: In John 17:20-23, Jesus prayed passionately for His followers to be one, just as He and the Father are one, so that the world might believe that the Father sent Him.²⁰ This passage is a cornerstone for any discussion about Christian unity. His heart is for us to be united!
• One Body in Christ: The Apostle Paul, in Ephesians 4:4, speaks of “one body,” which is the with Christ as its head.²⁰ This beautiful picture emphasizes the living, spiritual unity of all true believers in Christ. We are all connected in Him!
• A Strong Warning Against Divisions: Paul strongly condemned divisions, factions, and quarrels within the Corinthian church (1 Corinthians 1:10-13) and repeatedly urged believers to work hard to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3).²⁰ God desires harmony!
• Unity in Essential Truths: Along with the call for unity, the Bible also gives serious warnings against false teachers and straying from core apostolic doctrine (for example, Acts 20:28-30, Galatians 1:6-9, 1 John 4:2-3).²⁵ This means that true biblical unity cannot be achieved by sacrificing essential truth. In fact, some divisions are described as necessary to separate from those who twist the gospel or deny fundamental Christian beliefs.²⁵ Truth and unity go hand in hand!

Thinking Through the Criticisms and Complexities:

The discussion about non-denominationalism and biblical unity isn’t without its complexities God gives us wisdom:

• Is “Non-Denominational” Just Another Denomination?: Some theologians and observers argue that as soon as a non-denominational church makes decisions about its specific worship practices, how it baptizes, how often it has communion, its leadership structure, and its particular doctrinal points, it effectively creates its own set of traditions and beliefs that work much like those of a denomination, even if it doesn’t use the label.⁷
• Not Ignoring Real Theological Differences: Critics like Stephen Prothero suggest that the non-denominational emphasis on unity can sometimes gloss over real and major theological issues that historically led to the formation of different denominations. This approach, he argues, might promote a superficial unity that avoids engaging with the complexities of Christian thought and practice.¹
• Understanding “Division”: It’s important to recognize that not all distinctions or groupings of Christians are inherently sinful or against biblical unity. Some differences might come from historical factors, cultural contexts, being in different geographical locations, or having different convictions on secondary matters of doctrine or practice, without necessarily involving bad intentions or a denial of core Christian faith.²⁵ The Bible doesn’t call for a completely uniform, identical approach in all aspects of church life; God isn’t against diversity itself! 25
• The Danger of False Security: Simply calling a church “non-denominational” isn’t a guarantee that it’s biblically faithful. A whether it’s denominational or non-denominational, must hold to New Testament patterns for sound doctrine, godly living, and proper church practice to be considered truly biblical.²⁰ Some critics worry that certain non-denominational churches may not teach the full plan of salvation as they understand it from Scripture.²⁰

The biblical call for unity among believers, as we see in passages like John 17 and Ephesians 4, is undeniably clear. But achieving perfect organizational unity among all Christians has been a historically challenging goal. Non-denominationalism is one approach to pursuing a form of unity by trying to return to what are seen as biblical basics and local church freedom. Yet, it exists within a broader Christian world that is still characterized by diverse interpretations and organizational structures. This highlights an ongoing theological tension between the ideal of unity and the practical realities of church life in a fallen world. The very fact that there are thousands of independent non-denominational churches, each with the potential for its own interpretations, shows that completely eliminating “division” is a complex matter. The “one body” of Christ described in Ephesians 4:4 is a powerful spiritual and theological truth how it’s visibly expressed in the world continues to be a subject of discussion and varied approaches. But isn’t it wonderful that God’s Spirit unites us in ways that go beyond human structures?

While non-denominational churches often emphasize unity based on a shared relationship with Christ and a common commitment to the Bible, the crucial question of “unity in what specific beliefs?” is still important. As we noted, the Bible itself indicates that some divisions are sadly necessary to protect core doctrines, such as who Jesus is and the nature of salvation.²⁵ This implies that true biblical unity isn’t just organizational oneness or agreeing on the lowest common denominator rather a unity grounded in shared commitment to essential apostolic truth. Therefore, the pursuit of unity by non-denominational churches, or any must be balanced with a steadfast commitment to doctrinal faithfulness. A non-denominational church that is “united” internally but departs from essential Christian doctrine would not be fulfilling the biblical vision of unity. This makes the clarity and soundness of a church’s statement of beliefs (often found in a “what we believe” section on its website 26) critically important. We must stand firm on God’s truth!

Much of the argument for non-denominationalism comes from a “restorationist” desire—the wish to restore the church to its pure, New Testament form, free from what are seen as later human traditions or corruptions that may have built up over centuries.² This is a recurring theme throughout church history, with various movements trying to return to the perceived simplicity and purity of the early apostolic church. Understanding this desire helps to explain why non-denominational churches might critique some denominational structures as later, and possibly unbiblical, developments. The Stone-Campbell movement, a key historical root, specifically aimed to restore the “New Testament form” of Christianity.⁷ Similarly, many contemporary non-denominational churches aim to “model what they do after what each church did, not so much what religious institutions created” 2, desiring to be “free from the doctrinal and sometimes political affiliations that established denominational churches had accumulated over time”.² This restorationist ideal is powerful and has a strong appeal. But it also faces the ongoing challenge of interpreting precisely what that “New Testament form” means for church structure, worship, and practice in the 21st century – a challenge that contributes to the diversity we see even within the non-denominational movement itself. But God honors a heart that seeks to please Him!

How Can Someone Find and Thoughtfully Evaluate a Non-Denominational Church? Your Journey to a Faith-Filled Community!

Finding and choosing any including a non-denominational one, is a big and exciting decision that deserves your prayers and careful thought. Because non-denominational churches can be so wonderfully different from each other, taking a thorough approach is especially important. God wants to lead you to the perfect place for you!

First Steps on Your Journey:

• Pray for God’s Leading: The very first and most important step is to pray and ask God for wisdom and discernment to guide you to a church family where you can grow closer to Him and serve Him with joy.¹⁵ He promises to direct your paths!
• Explore Online: Start by looking for churches in your area. You might search for terms like “churches near me”.² Once you find some potential churches, visit their websites. Pay close attention to the “What We Believe,” “Statement of Faith,” or “Our Doctrines” section.²⁶ This is a super important first step because, as we’ve seen, the specific beliefs of non-denominational churches can vary a lot.³
• Visit and Experience: Plan to attend worship services at a few different churches. This will let you experience firsthand the church’s atmosphere, the style of worship, what the preaching is like, and the warmth of the community.¹⁵ See where your spirit feels at home!

Key Things to Look for with God’s Wisdom:

When you visit or research a non-denominational prayerfully consider these areas:

Is the Teaching True to God’s Word? (Biblical Fidelity of Teaching):

• Does the pastor preach directly from Scripture, and is the teaching faithful to what the Bible says?²⁶ Does the church seem committed to teaching the “whole counsel of God” (a phrase from Acts 20:27, mentioned in 21 as a standard for teaching)?
• Does the church clearly “teach the truth of God’s word” and make sure its practices line up with Scripture?¹⁵
• Are core Christian doctrines—like the nature of God (Trinity), who Jesus is and what He did (Christology), how we are saved, and the authority of the Bible—clearly, accurately, and consistently taught?²¹ God’s truth is foundational!

Are the Leaders Following God? (Leadership Character and Accountability):

• What is the church’s leadership structure? Is there a clear system of oversight and accountability for the senior pastor and other leaders?¹⁵
• Do the leaders (pastors, elders) show observable Christian character, like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23, referenced in 21)?
• Are the leaders recognized and affirmed by a wider Christian community where that’s appropriate? Is there a process by which leaders are tested or proven before being given major responsibility (though how pastors are ordained can vary widely)?²¹
• Given the independence of non-denominational churches, it’s wise to be aware of the potential for “rogue leaders” if accountability structures are weak or not there.⁴ Pray for godly leaders!

Is it a Loving Family? (Health of the Community):

• When you visit, do you feel genuinely welcomed? Is there an atmosphere of warmth and belonging?²⁶
• Are there clear opportunities for building meaningful relationships, for discipleship, and for mutual support within the church community?³⁷
• Does the congregation seem to welcome newcomers with open arms, and does it have the feel of a spiritual family?²⁶ God designed us for fellowship!

Does it Lift Your Spirit? (Worship Style and Engagement):

• Is the preaching engaging, understandable, and relevant to your life and spiritual growth?³⁷
• Does the style of music and worship help you to connect with God and express your praise authentically?³⁷ Worship should be a joy!

Does it Resonate with Your Heart (Within Godly Boundaries)? (Alignment with Personal Convictions):

• After making sure that the church holds to sound, orthodox Christian doctrine on essential matters, consider if its specific emphases, ministry style, and overall culture are a good fit for your personal spiritual growth and how you want to serve God.
• It can be helpful to figure out what aspects of church life are most important to you, based on your understanding of Scripture.²⁶

Is There Openness and Honesty? (Transparency):

• While non-denominational churches aren’t typically bound by the same external rules for transparency as some denominational churches 14, it’s reasonable to assess the church’s openness, particularly in areas like how they handle finances and make major decisions, if these are important things for you to know.¹⁵ Integrity matters!

Important Things to Keep in Mind Specifically for Non-Denominational Churches:

• Read Belief Statements Carefully: Because there’s no big denominational standard to ensure doctrinal consistency, you need to do your own homework by carefully reading and understanding each individual church’s specific statement of beliefs.¹⁵ Don’t assume that all non-denominational churches believe the same things. Seek God’s wisdom as you read!
• Ask About Accountability: Try to understand how the church leadership is held accountable. Is there an active and independent elder board? Are there any voluntary external connections or mentoring relationships that provide some oversight or counsel?¹⁵
• Be Like the Bereans – Search the Scriptures!: Get in the habit of being like the Berean Christians mentioned in Acts 17:11, who “received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” Always check what is taught against the Word of God for yourself.³ Let God’s Word be your guide!

Your Ultimate Goal:

the goal is to find a Bible-believing and Bible-teaching church that faithfully holds to the orthodox truths of the Christian faith. It should be a place where you can grow in your relationship with God, connect meaningfully with other believers in fellowship and service, and be equipped to live out your faith in the world.¹ God has a wonderful church family for you!

Because non-denominational churches don’t have the “brand recognition” or the standardized doctrinal oversight that comes with being part of an established denomination, a greater responsibility falls on you, the individual seeker, to thoroughly investigate and evaluate a church’s theology, leadership, and practices.¹⁵ This requires a degree of spiritual maturity, biblical literacy, and diligence on your part. You can’t just assume a certain theological package based on the “non-denominational” label; you have to actively discern what that particular church believes and teaches. This is different from many denominational churches where “core beliefs and traditions are established and shared by the larger denomination” 17, providing a degree of predictability. So, the “vetting” process 26 for a non-denominational church is often more intensive and relies on your own seeking. But God will give you the discernment you need!

In the absence of formal denominational creeds that a church must agree to, the “What We Believe” section on a non-denominational church’s website (or a similar doctrinal statement you can get from the church) becomes an exceptionally important document.²⁶ It serves as the church’s main public declaration of its theological identity and is often the first thing potential attendees look at. The clarity, completeness, and alignment of this statement with historic Christian orthodoxy are vital signs of the church’s theological grounding. Since non-denominational churches “can customize their beliefs and practices to whatever doctrine and creeds they deem appropriate” 1, this statement is the clearest explanation of what that specific, independent church has decided is biblically sound and appropriate. Its content—or sometimes, its lack of detail on key doctrines—can give you major clues about the church’s theological seriousness and whether it might align with your own understanding of the Christian faith. Trust God to show you!

Conclusion: Step Out in Faith and Find Your Place!

Non-denominational churches are a vibrant and growing part of God’s amazing work in the world today! They are characterized by their wonderful independence from larger denominational structures, and they offer a beautiful diversity of approaches to worship, leadership, and ministry. While they commonly share core beliefs rooted in evangelical Protestantism—like the authority of God’s Word, the deity of our Lord Jesus Christ, and salvation by His amazing grace through faith—their freedom allows for a lot of variation in specific doctrines and practices.

The appeal of non-denominational churches often comes from their flexibility, their contemporary relevance, their emphasis on a personal, living faith, and a deep desire to return to a simpler expression of New Testament Christianity. But this independence also brings challenges, especially when it comes to accountability, doctrinal consistency, and the potential for feeling isolated if not carefully managed by wise and mature local leadership. But God is bigger than any challenge!

For Christians who are considering a non-denominational or just want to understand this movement better, there are some key takeaways. The historical roots in movements like the Stone-Campbell Restoration and the Jesus Movement show a recurring desire for an authentic, Bible-centered faith, free from what some see as institutional constraints. The teachings of the early Church Fathers, with their strong emphasis on visible unity, the authority of bishops, and apostolic tradition, offer a valuable historical perspective that invites us to reflect on how the church maintains its identity and faithfulness through time. There’s so much wisdom to gain!

God has a place for you! Trust Him, seek His guidance, and step out in faith. He will lead you to the church family where you can blossom and be a blessing!