Non-essentials & The Church

[Pilgrimtozion]

Our pastor recently preached on 1 Timothy 6, where he instructs Timothy to guard the gospel. Pastor Steve took the opportunity to emphasize that while non-essentials are interesting to discuss and debate, they are not what Paul calls us to guard and should not be reason for schism.

This sparked a question for me: how important are non-essentials for you in the church you attend and which ones are important enough for you to leave your church over?

- Nothing, as long as they don't mess with the essentials!
- Eschatology
- Tithing / Giving
- Baptism in water
- Baptism in the Holy Spirit
- Eucharist / Communion
- (Not) Once Saved Always Saved
- Speaking in tongues
- Role of women in church
- Church organization (from a theological perspective)
- Gifts of the Spirit
- Other (please specify)

[amazzin]

Interesting question because what may be a non-essential can be a doctrinal position for some. Non-essential is in essense something we agree on to not debate across denominational lines. But within, many will teach on it as a core belief

[-SEEKING-]

Hmm. That's a good question. The only one that comes to mind that would probably make me make such a decision would be if the children's and student ministries were removed. I feel those are very important. Although as parents we need to be the ones who teach them the bible, there is an importance of fellowship and that young age that should not be overlooked or underestimated.

[HisLeast]

Of late, I am of the opinion that there are no non-essentials.

[waslostnowfound]

I voted for Speaking in Tongues. I must add that I would only leave the church for that reason if I felt that I was being pressured to speak in tongues because it was the only evidence of being baptized by the Holy Spirit. I have a very bad taste in my mouth because of a personal experience and I think I would still be uncomfortable in an environment which teaches that. Other than that....as long as the essentials are intact, I would go anywhere.

[Dani H]

I'm choosing the first option although essentials to me may be different than they are to others.

My essentials being Jesus being put in His proper place and people loving one another in truth and action with an emphasis on giving to the community and reaching out to the lost. Following the commandments Jesus Himself gave us, basically.

[-SEEKING-]

As per the OP I am closing the thread and leaving the link for the updated poll. Please continue this discussion in the following THREAD