There are three major streams in the ‘christian tradition’: Orthodox, Catholic and Protestant. There are also many other independent religious groups.
Together these make up thousands of denominations, each with varying beliefs and ways of worship.
Many came into being as a result of theological conflicts and disagreements. Others were begun by individuals - often long after Jesus left the earth. And even today there are ongoing issues of splits, mergers, policy changes, etc.
This all should tell us that things are not right. God is not the author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33)!
If we look for some answer ... some common ground: we see that most denominations claim the Bible as their authority. That is where we need to look.
The Bible teaches us what to believe, how to worship, and how to live:
All Scripture is inspired by God [literally, ‘God-breathed’] and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2 Timothy 3, verses 16-17
Ironically, it is the very Bible claimed by the denominations - that tells us that we need no other spiritual guide, revelation, policies, etc. The Bible itself is all we need.
We must beware. Adding, removing or altering His teachings makes our faith null and void.
These people draw near to me with their mouth, and honor me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. And in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrine rules made by men. Matthew 15, verses 8-9
In fact no denomination is right. There is only the church that Jesus Christ Himself built.
We offer a brief study looking at this.
Jesus said,
If you love me, keep my commandments.
John 14 verse 15