Should I go to church?
What is the Global Christian Church?
One local church issue that is not always so easily resolved, however, is that of denomination. There are 28,000 or more different denominations around the world. In of itself, denominational choice is not a particularly big issue, assuming once again that the denomination represents a Bible believing, faith-based group that genuinely loves God and places 100% of their trust in the redemptive power of Jesus Christ, and not in their own works. The problems that arise typically stem from debates over denominational issues regarding 'nonessential doctrines'. And, those debates have historically led to significant divisiveness and strife within the Body of Christ. By nonessential doctrines, we mean issues which are not essentials of the Faith only.
We certainly recognize that there are many denominational doctrines that are important, although they are not essential doctrines of the Faith. Though they may be important, our position is that on matters of essentials there must be complete unity. On matters of nonessentials there must be freedom. Freedom to hear, move, and grow as the Spirit of God leads without fear of ridicule or condemnation from others that hold to a differing position on the nonessential doctrine. According to the teaching of our Lord Jesus, in all matters there must be Love. (Note: The GCC's own Articles of Faith reflect this position.)
The entire Body of Christ, as a whole, constitutes what we call the "Global Christian Church". In the past, others have referred to it as "the Universal Church" or simply as "The Church". What is meant is all of God's Children, including every man, woman and child around the world who has called on the name of Jesus to be their personal Lord and Savior. These are the people who make up the Body of Christ - the Global Christian Church - regardless of denominational affiliation.
Sadly, people in the Body of Christ are all too often segregated and alienated from one another over nonessential doctrine. We believe this absolutely grieves our Lord. He desires for us to all be united. He wants us to love one another as Christians, as well as all other men, just as He loves us. And, He wants us all, functioning both personally as individuals and also in harmony corporately as the Body of Christ, to accomplish His Great Commission. God's loves us unconditionally and beyond all measure, and His Will is that none should perish.
