The Problem With Denominations
Unless you grew up and was taught a specific denomination in the church, knowing the ins and outs of all denominations may be overwhelming when trying to pick what denomination you want to be. The new generation of Christians do not focus on denominations as fiercely as the other generations did. They just want Jesus.
You Cannot Shame Someone Into Following A Specific Religion/Religious Denomination
Shaming someone into following what you follow has three possible outcomes. 1) The person grows to dislike/have trust issues with the church. 2) The blame is put on Jesus so they do not pursue Him ever again/for many years. 3) Very* slight chance that they grow to love Jesus. Trying to force someone to believe what you believe by shaming them is not how Jesus taught us to behave. Shame does not lead to an authentic love.
Are Denominations Wrong?
No, I am not saying that denominations are wrong. It is not my place to convict anyone to do anything a certain way. I will leave all convicting to the Holy Spirt. The Bible tells us to not put stumbling blocks in front of others and there are many denominations to choose from. Choosing a denomination right at the start of the relationship with Jesus can have diverse effects on the person. I highly recommend everyone read Romans as it is such a great book to read. The verse about stumbling blocks is Romans 14:13.
13 “Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.” Romans 14:13
How Can I Help A New Believer?
Tell them the 3 facts of faith.
1) God sent His son to die on a cross to free us from sin (John 3:16) and Jesus rose three days later (Luke 24:6-7)
16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16
6 He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 7 ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ ” Luke 24:6-7
2) Jesus is the only way to Heaven. John 14:5-7
5 “Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?”
6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7 If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.””
3) Repent of your sins. Acts 2:38-39
38 “Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.””
God does not require a denomination picking like Hogwarts houses. He wants a relationship with us. He gives us hope and a future through Him alone.
11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
As always, God loves you, I love you, and I will be praying for you! Have a blessed week!