What does it mean for a church or organization to be interdenominational?

Response

The terms “nondenominational” and “interdenominational” are closely related and are often used interchangeably. The subtle distinction is that a nondenominational organization avoids affiliation with any specific Christian denomination, while an interdenominational organization appreciates the strengths of multiple denominations. Many parachurch organizations, such as mission agencies, schools, or rescue missions, are interdenominational, drawing from a variety of denominations for their staff, students, or volunteers.

An interdenominational church aims to integrate diverse practices from different denominations. For instance, how the church observes the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:23-26). A church might observe it monthly but also make the elements available weekly in a separate room for those who feel compelled to observe it each time the church gathers.

An interdenominational church operates independently and does not adhere to any denominational hierarchy for leadership or accountability. Most seek to base their beliefs on the essential tenets of Christian doctrine, such as the Bible’s infallibility “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.”, (John 17:17) and the belief that Jesus Christ is the only path to salvation “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”, (John 14:6). The objective of this kind of church is to attract individuals who have negative connotations with denominational labels. An interdenominational church aims to dismantle denominational barriers in order to reach those who are lost and struggling and who may never visit a church with a denominational affiliation.

A denominational name.

One of the strengths of an interdenominational church is that it is free to follow the direction of the Holy Spirit without constraints of governing bodies that may not consider the needs of a local congregation. An interdenominational church can focus on the central issues of the gospel without being distracted by minor issues that cause division and strife. It allows for various interpretations and traditions that do not detract from the central mission of glorifying God and reaching people (Matthew 28:19-20). As one interdenominational pastor stated, “We try to focus on the ninety percent of things that all born-again Christians agree on, and let the rest be a matter of personal conviction.”

Some weaknesses of an interdenominational church are its lack of oversight by a larger governing body and the lack of support in difficult times. Denominations can provide accountability that is often absent in interdenominational churches. However, wise pastors create boards and/or pastoral networks to which they regularly report in order to hold themselves accountable. Denominations can also come to the rescue when a local body is going through challenging times, either financially, spiritually, or morally. When a denominational pastor leaves or causes problems, denominations usually have an interim pastor ready to step in and keep the flock together while the church regroups. Interdenominational churches often do not have a strong leader in the wings, and sometimes the church folds when the pastor leaves.

Another weakness of an interdenominational church or organization is the possibility of veering from truth in an effort to incorporate everyone. Ecumenism is, by definition, interdenominational. There is the danger of trying to become all things to all people to the extent of watering down scriptural truth. Denominations usually have stated doctrinal positions, and anyone choosingChoosing a particular denomination also means selecting its beliefs and practices. Without predetermined doctrinal statements, interdenominational churches risk straying from orthodoxy under the leadership’s discretion.

It’s crucial to acknowledge that the Body of Christ transcends denominations. While we may use labels for identification, Jesus never imposed denominational distinctions. He declared, “All those the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away” «All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. », (John 6:37). The Body of Christ comprises “everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord” «And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. », (Acts 2:21), and the gospel of salvation by grace through faith unites believers, despite our differences. Heaven will eternally embrace diversity, as “every nation, tribe, and tongue” «And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; », (Revelation 5:9) will worship the same Lord in perfect harmony forever.