If some are offended by the claim that a non-denominational/undenominational (again, mere semantics) has denominated itself then offense up with those who have insisted that we use only one singural description in scripture for the church (and there are some in our brotherhood willing to “write up” any congregation that would stray from the exclusive use of “Church of Christ” alone). Also take that up with the many organizations associated with our brotherhood who have named their organization “Churches of Christ X fund, “Churches of Christ Y Group,” and “Churches of Christ Z Network.”

I prefer to practice non-denominational Christianity because I believe it is biblical and for that, I am thankful that our brotherhood does not have any governing board beyond the local congregation (though their are certainly journals, lectureships, and editors who try to fulfill such a role). But the fact is, for a non-denominational movement, in some other aspects we have become a denomination. So what are we to do? Keep arguing about it to the point of more division or accept it in the manner of realizing there are bigger issues (like sharing the story of Jesus to a world that knows less and less of Jesus) that need our attention? I say the later is the answer but I know some will disagree.

Grace and peace,

Rex

I agree with one of the comments above that we don’t need to introduce seekers (or the unchurched who are not yet seeking, or the churched who have no “hang-ips”) to a divisive issue that isn’t even on their radar. They’ve got enough problems already.

I struggled with this issue too, even being for removing the name on the sign, at one point in my life not too terribly long ago. Finally, I realized that there is no such thing as a “name” that is free from stigmatization, and that the one we use is Scriptural. So, I’m over it. I’m a member of the church of Christ or Church of Christ and it doesn’t matter to me if you capitalize it or not.

I appreciate the question, bro.

—JLP

In another community, it might be different. I believe your context will help you determine best how to respond to people in the initial conversation.

God bless,

Rex

I said, “Church of Christ.”

“I didn’t know you were a member of Barack Obama’s church,” was the reply.

I had to say, “I’m not. He was a member of a United Church of Christ. It’s a liberal denomination. We’re not. We just sound similar.”

Sometimes our name is confusing, since different denominations can refer to themselves as “Church of Christ” (United Church of Christ, Pentecostal Church of Christ, etc.). Sometimes our name is a barrier, since some people have been abused by Churches of Christ or our members. However, sometimes it can open doors to conversations. One of my customers asked where I went to church. When she found out I am a member of a Church of Christ, she responded, “Oh, I just love the Church of Christ!” I’m not sure what she has experienced from Churches of Christ or our members, but she was impressed. I hope that others think of the Churches of Christ as full of kind, solid, fair, and friendly people because of my influence in their lives, too. At least, that’s my goal.