A non-denominational church is a Christian church that isn’t part of a larger group, like the Baptist or Methodist churches. Non-denominational churches really focus on the Bible, but they might have slightly different ways of interpreting it. Even though they have some differences, many non-denominational churches still believe in the Trinity, which is a key idea in Christianity.
Do Non-Denominational Churches Believe in the Trinity?
Yes, in most cases, non-denominational churches follow the basic principles of Christianity, among them the belief in the Trinity The idea of the Trinity is that God, while singular, manifests in three forms: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. These figures are equally divine and have always existed together as a single God.
Let’s dive into why the doctrine of the Trinity is important to many non-denominational churches:
- Non-denominational churches generally believe the Trinity is rooted in Scripture. For example, Jesus’s baptism (Matthew 3:16-17) and the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19) suggest a three-part nature of God.
- The Trinity isn’t just an abstract idea – it’s central to how many Christians understand who God is, how we experience salvation, and how we relate to the divine.
While the Trinity is a central belief for many non-denominational churches, there’s some variation in how different congregations interpret or focus on it.
Like in any large group, you’ll find some exceptions within non-denominational churches. A few groups hold nontrinitarian views. The most well-known example is Oneness Pentecostalism, where they see Jesus as the only form of God.
The Main Point of Difference
Likely the biggest non-trinitarian group within non-denominational Christianity is the Oneness Pentecostal movement. Their belief, called ‘modalism,’ views God as a single being who shows himself in different ways at different times – Father, Son, Holy Spirit. This is different from the Trinity concept of three distinct, yet equal, persons within God.
These churches base their views on a particular interpretation of Scripture. They often emphasize passages that speak of God’s unity and oneness. They might argue that the Trinity, as traditionally understood, introduces complexity that isn’t supported by the Bible’s simple witness.
Some non-denominational churches with non-trinitarian views might be influenced by early church movements that also questioned the orthodox doctrine of the Trinity. These movements existed in the early centuries of Christianity but were ultimately rejected by the broader church.
These churches may strongly emphasize the supremacy and centrality of Jesus Christ. They might view the Trinity as diminishing Jesus’ unique position as the Son of God or see it as confusing the distinction between Jesus and God the Father.
Factors that Can Influence Belief
Though the concept of the Trinity is important to numerous non-denominational churches, their defining feature lies in their freedom from traditional denominational hierarchies. This independence grants them flexibility in several areas, including:
Different beliefs and ideas
Non-denominational churches mix and match ideas from different Christian backgrounds. This can mean different ways of thinking about who God is, including different views on the Trinity.
A 2014 Pew Research Study found that non-denominational churches cover a lot of theological ground. This makes sense, right? Without a denomination setting the rules, churches are free to develop their own unique beliefs.
Many non-denominational churches adhere to the orthodox understanding of the Trinity. However, due to a lack of formal denominational oversight and a focus on individual biblical interpretation, some churches and pastors within the movement may hold differing views on the Trinity.
Some non-denominational churches may express beliefs closer to Modalism. This view suggests that God is one person who reveals himself in three different modes or manifestations at different times, rather than three distinct persons.
A belief that Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit are subordinate to God the Father, either in nature or function. While less common, this view can exist in some non-denominational circles.
In some cases, non-denominational churches may not have a rigidly defined stance on the Trinity. They might emphasize the mystery of God’s nature, leaving room for individual members to explore and develop their own understandings.
Focus on Biblical Authority
Emphasis is often placed on the Bible as the ultimate authority, leading different non-denominational churches to arrive at different conclusions about doctrines like the Trinity.
Non-denominational churches, as their name suggests, operate independently of established denominational structures. This independence translates to a less centralized approach to theology and doctrine. While foundational Christian beliefs are generally shared, non-denominational churches often emphasize returning to the Bible as the primary source of authority for formulating their specific positions on various theological topics. This focus on Biblical authority can lead to a fascinating diversity of interpretations, even when it comes to a core concept like the Trinity.
Many non-denominational churches firmly adhere to the traditional Trinitarian view. They carefully examine biblical passages that point to the distinct yet interwoven nature of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Passages such as Jesus’ baptism (Matthew 3:16-17), where all three persons of the Trinity are present, and the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19), where Jesus instructs baptism in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, become key points of support.
However, the emphasis on individual biblical interpretation in some non-denominational settings can lead to alternative understandings of the Trinity. Some churches may lean towards a modalist view, believing that God manifests in different modes (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) at different times. Others may adopt a subordinationist view, where Jesus and the Holy Spirit are seen as subordinate to God the Father. These variations arise from focusing on specific scriptural passages or placing greater weight on certain aspects of God’s character.
Individual Pastor’s Influence
The pastor or leadership team of a specific non-denominational church can significantly influence the overall interpretation and emphasis placed on the Trinity.
The Bible is the central authority in most non-denominational churches. A pastor could focus on specific verses or passages they believe contradict the Trinity, prioritizing a very literal reading. A pastor with a pre-existing non-trinitarian theological background (perhaps influenced by movements like Modalism or Oneness Pentecostalism) could shape the church’s understanding from the outset.
Some pastors might reject the Trinity as a reaction to what they see as overly complex or outdated denominational teachings. They may favor what they perceive as a simpler, more ‘Biblically grounded’ understanding of God. In a desire to create a welcoming and inclusive church, some pastors may downplay doctrines they consider divisive, including the Trinity.
Nontrinitarian Positions
A relatively small number of non-denominational churches may hold beliefs that challenge the traditional view of the Trinity (such as Oneness Pentecostalism, for example).
While the majority of non-denominational churches adhere to the doctrine of the Trinity, a small but significant number hold nontrinitarian positions. These churches challenge the traditional understanding of God as one being existing in three co-equal and co-eternal persons – the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
One prominent nontrinitarian movement within the non-denominational landscape is Oneness Pentecostalism. This theology emphasizes the absolute oneness of God, rejecting the concept of distinct persons within the Godhead. They view Jesus Christ as God himself manifest in human form, rather than a separate person of the Trinity. Oneness Pentecostals often place a strong emphasis on baptism in the name of Jesus and speaking in tongues as evidence of the Holy Spirit.
Other nontrinitarian positions may exist within non-denominational churches. Some may adopt a form of Modalism, which suggests that God reveals himself in different modes (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) at different times, but isn’t simultaneously three distinct persons. A small number of churches might be influenced by Unitarianism, which rejects the divinity of Jesus Christ.