Question: Why are there so many denominations? Doesn’t the Bible call for “unity”?
Answer: You are correct that the Bible does quote Jesus in John 17:21 where he says “that they may all be one even as Thou Father art in Me and I in Thee.” In Romans 12:5 the Apostle Paul states: “So we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.”
These verses describe the spiritual unity of all who put their faith in Christ for salvation and are filled with the Holy Spirit, not the political union of believers. If we understand this concept, the multitude of denominations becomes less troubling.
The denominations originated as European immigrants came to the New World and brought with them the religious practices and churches they had practiced in the countries from which they came.
For example, the Episcopal Church came from England, where they were known as Anglicans; the Presbyterians came primarily from Scotland and Ireland; the Lutherans came from Germany and Scandinavia, etc., etc.
In colonial times and until a few decades ago, most of these denominations taught the same Gospel, although the forms of worship were often unique to the particular church. True believers continue to be one in the Holy Spirit today, regardless of the denominational label they may wear.
Dr. John Jamieson
Central Ocean City Union Chapel
