Church Denominations

Having spent the last 4 years of my life surrounded by hundreds of college students who have grown up in a significantly different Christian America than any other generation, I have heard a lot of different thoughts and opinions about denominations in general. Most have no idea what denomination their church really is unless it has it mentioned in the church's name. Even if they do know what denomination their church is, they have no idea what that really means. And the worst part that I have noticed in my experience is that they don't even care. 

I have spent the last 4 days in Houston, Texas at the Southern Baptist Convention and Pastor's Conference. I have been a Southern Baptist since April 13, 1990, probably before actually. Growing up in the family that I did, I knew more about what it means to be Southern Baptist than most kids my age did. Over the years, thanks to my parents, grandparents, and mentors/pastors in my life, I have learned even more about the denomination, how it works, what we believe, etc. This week, my knowledge about the denomination tripled (approximately) and I developed an incredible appreciation and sense of gratitude for denominations in general, but specifically Southern Baptists. 

Allow me to share/brag just a few of the many reasons that I'm proud to call myself a Southern Baptist:

- Southern Baptists are the largest protestant denomination in North America at 16 million members. 

- There are over 45,000 churches that actively collaborate and work together. 

- Southern Baptists planted over 24,000 churches last year alone. 

- 337,385 people came to faith in Christ through the work of Southern Baptist missionaries in 2013 alone. 

- Southern Baptists support almost 5,000 missionaries outside of North America. 

- Southern Baptists operate 6 of the best seminaries in the world. 

As I have learned more about denominations, I have come to realize how important it is, not necessarily to be Southern Baptist, but to know about your church's affiliations. Whether or not you agree theologically, you cannot deny the impressive stats above and the power that lies within the core Baptist value of cooperation. God has blessed my denomination throughout its history and has allowed SB members to be a part of building his Kingdom all over the world. 

All that being said, no matter how old you are or what church you go to, I would encourage you to learn more about your denomination. Learn about the doctrines your church stand upon - you might be surprised both positively or negatively by what you find. Think deeply about what your church believes and whether or not you believe it is biblical. Learn about how your denomination is organized and works together - this will tell you a lot about their values and effectiveness. There are many reasons to think about and examine your church denomination's beliefs and values, strengths and weaknesses. Do a little googling and researching and watch your life be enriched with knowledge and a deeper appreciation for church!