Denominations III: A Study of The Anabaptist, Methodist, and Salvation Army Churches

As a continuation of the first study guide to Denominations - From God Or Man? Volume Three, which addressed Calvinism and the Presbyterian Church, this study guide focuses on the final three denominations of that book - the Anabaptist, Methodist, and Salvation Army Churches. Little is widely known about two of these - the Anabaptist (Amish, Hutterian Brethren, and Mennonite Churches) and the Salvation Army Church (known more as a relief agency than a church), and as such, they make for a most interesting study; not only to reveal who these groups are religiously, but how they perceive the Bible and attempt to follow it. However, nearly half of this 13-lesson study guide will be devoted to the Methodist Church, as this group offers a different way of approaching Scripture, allowing for change. Where the Presbyterian Church studied in the first workbook suggests that Scripture contains error, and thus any passage conflicting with a desired doctrine can be contested, the Methodist Church has introduced the idea that God's Word cannot stand alone - it must be interpreted through man's "tradition," "experience," and "reason" to bring the parishioner into 21st century understanding. Again, should a passage of Scripture conflict with Methodism, it must first be aligned with these human traits, and, in most, if not all, cases, a change is justified. Peter said that Scripture contains "all things that pertain to life and godliness" (2 Peter 1:3); Jude said the faith was "once for all delivered to the saints" (Jude 3); and Paul said Scripture is all-sufficient, able to instruct mankind to be "completely and thoroughly equipped for every good work" (2 Timothy 3:16-17). What do these superlatives suggest about the adequacy of Scripture to guide today's Christian, without reinterpretation? This study guide will explore these subjects in depth. Whether used individually or in a group/class setting, this study guide promises robust discussion on these topics and more, to promote faith-building through God's Word.