Growing up, I used to wonder why there are so many denominations. Why can’t all Christians
and believers assemble under one umbrella? If truly we are one in Christ, why the diversity in doctrines and modes of worship? If one Jesus, why numerous denominations?

According to LiveScience, there are about 45,000 denominations and counting worldwide. From the Ethiopian Orthodox churches in the 4th century, the Roman Catholic Church of the early ADs, the Protestant alliance in 1517, and other Pentecostal denominations formed during 1534, down to the White Garment churches in the 1930/40s and modern revival denominations in every corner across the globe. These denominations have their peculiar roots, origins, and divine mandates.

Although these denominations vary in modes of worship, beliefs, and doctrines, one unshakable glue/bond that holds us as Christians is the divine mandate of the Great Commission given to us in [Matthew 28:16–20].

Back to the question: Why so many denominations, if it is the same God we serve?

Before the return of Jesus Christ, one of the major prophecies that must be fulfilled is that the gospel will be preached to every corner of the earth ([Matthew 24:14]). So that every race, man, woman, young and old, who will all stand before the throne of judgment on the last day, will have no excuse to say he or she did not hear the gospel or have the opportunity to accept and believe in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ on the cross to save the world from eternal damnation.

If it is the same God we serve, why so many denominations? The answer to this question is very simple.

You see, people are different. Spiritual and cultural backgrounds are different. And geographical locations are very different. For this reason, how a group of people will perceive the gospel will vary.

Inevitably, the spiritual background of an individual, their culture, and geographical location influence how they will perceive and receive the good news.

For this reason, different denominations exist to attend to the unique nature of an individual’s background and level of faith. Let me explain further.

In the parable of the lost sheep ([Matthew 18:10–14]), Jesus Christ illustrates himself as the Good Shepherd who leaves the ninety-nine for the lost one. Each denomination formed is Christ’s attempt to find His lost sheep marked for salvation by any means possible. Take this denomination, for example: Celestial Church of Christ (CCC).

CCC, with its mighty power and grace (LULI), was brought down from heaven for, firstly, the sole purpose of Jesus Christ finding His lost sheep. Secondly, for people who were thick in witchcraft, darkness, and bondage, so that these people, coming to Christianity, will have a degree of spirituality they can relate to—but this time, spirituality in light and salvation through Christ. With these unique ways of worship and doctrines, it is different from other denominations.

In this same way, Jesus Christ, through anointed men and women, established other denominations for a group or race of people not so inclined to the spiritual—individuals who lean more toward the less spiritual side of Christianity. For every denomination, there was/is a specific set of people in Jesus’s mind.

Hallelujah!

See! Look! Jesus Christ can create a whole denomination just for your sake and your family alone. See you; that’s the kind of God we have. Isn’t that too wonderful!?

Hallelujah!

At the end of the day, the presence of numerous denominations is not something to scoff at or criticize but rather appreciate, because it proves the lengths God will go to make the rudiments of salvation accessible for anyone willing to believe in the name of Jesus, which binds us all together. Now, what makes us Celestians different from all denominations is obviously a heightened level of spirituality, power, and grace in worship. Another factor that sets us apart is the mission of thechurch.

CCC is the last boat of salvation. The stakes don’t get higher than that. In this same boat, you and I have been placed after being saved from the world and the destruction awaiting it. We must stand firm and endeavor to be useful in it.

Hallelujah!

On the last day, God will not question which denomination you belonged to while on earth. Instead, God will ask you, like the Master asked in the parable of the talents ([Matthew25:14–30]):

“What did you do with your talents?”

To whom much is given, much is expected. As Christians, so many gifts and powers are given to us, as heard in CCC Hymn 330 ([Nipa agbara eje Jesu, ni Baba fi gbe kale]) and CCC Hymn 291 ([IfeOluwa ti po to, s’enyin Ijo Mimo, e mura ke gb’Oluwa gbo, ke le ri ogo Re]).

On that day, as Christians, with all the anointings, the gifts, powers, and grace we received freely on earth, in double, if not triple, more will be expected when we give our accounts. Let’s make Jehovah proud.

Hallelujah!!!

Written By Israel Olorunnisola.

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