Are the churches of Christ a denomination?
No. The churches of Christ are not a denomination, sect, or branch of a larger religious body.
We are simply:
- Christians only
- Following the New Testament pattern
- Organized as independent congregations
- Under the headship of Christ alone (Ephesians 1:22–23)
There is no earthly headquarters, no human creed, and no denominational structure. The goal is to be the same church established in Acts 2, nothing more and nothing less.
Why no instruments?
The New Testament teaches Christians to sing in worship (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16). There is no command, example, or implication of instrumental music in Christian worship.
Because we seek to follow the New Testament pattern, we practice:
- A cappella congregational singing
- Making melody in the heart
- Teaching and admonishing one another through song
This is not a cultural preference—it is a commitment to worship according to Scripture.
What does baptism accomplish?
The New Testament teaches that baptism:
- Is for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38)
- Washes away sins (Acts 22:16)
- Unites us with Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3–4)
- Adds us to the body, the church (Acts 2:41, 47)
- Is part of becoming a disciple (Matthew 28:19)
Baptism is not a symbol of salvation already received. It is the moment God forgives sins and makes a person a Christian.
How are congregations organized?
Each congregation is self‑governed and independent, following the New Testament pattern.
A scripturally organized congregation includes:
- Elders (also called shepherds or overseers) — to lead and guide (Acts 14:23; 1 Peter 5:1–4)
- Deacons — to serve in specific roles (Philippians 1:1)
- Evangelists — to preach and teach (2 Timothy 4:2)
- Members — to worship, serve, and grow (1 Corinthians 12:27)
There is no hierarchy above the local congregation. Christ is the only head.
What do you teach about salvation?
We teach the same message preached in the New Testament:
- Hear the gospel (Matthew 28:18)
- Believe in Jesus Christ (Mark 16:16)
- Repent of sin (Luke 13:3)
- Confess Christ (Romans 10:9–10)
- Be baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38)
- Walk faithfully with God (Revelation 2:10)
Salvation is by God’s grace, through faith, expressed in obedience (Ephesians 2:8; Hebrews 5:9).
Why do you take the Lord’s Supper every Sunday?
The early church met on the first day of the week to break bread (Acts 20:7). We follow that example by observing the Lord’s Supper every Sunday.
Why do you emphasize the New Testament pattern?
Because the New Testament reveals:
- The church Christ established
- The worship God desires
- The plan of salvation
- The organization of the church
We seek to follow the pattern God provided (2 Timothy 1:13).
Do you believe the Old Testament is still binding?
We believe the Old Testament is inspired and valuable (Romans 15:4), but Christians live under the New Covenant established by Christ (Hebrews 8:6–13; Colossians 2:14).
What name should the church use?
The New Testament uses several descriptions:
- “church of Christ” (Romans 16:16)
- “church of God” (1 Corinthians 1:2)
- “body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12)
We use biblical names because they honor Christ and avoid denominational labels.
How does someone become a member of the church?
There is no vote, class, or ceremony. When a person obeys the gospel, the Lord adds them to the church (Acts 2:47).