Why are there Christian sects?
Understanding Christian Sects from a Biblical and Baptist Perspective
The term sect can carry a variety of meanings, ranging from “a religious denomination” to “a destructive cult.” For clarity, we will define a Christian sect as “a small church faction that has separated from a larger group to follow a specific practice or interpretation of the Bible.” This definition distinguishes a sect from a denomination—a large group of churches sharing general beliefs—and a cult, which we define as a heretical group that departs from orthodox Christian teachings. Christian sects are often characterized by their adherence to a specific doctrine or practice and are frequently centered around the teachings of one influential leader.
Historical Examples of Christian Sects
Throughout church history, sects have emerged as offshoots of larger Christian movements, often due to doctrinal or practical disagreements. For instance:
The Seventh Day Baptists: In 17th-century England, the Baptist denomination split into General Baptists (Arminian) and Particular Baptists (Calvinistic). However, a smaller group, the Seventh Day Baptists, separated further, adopting the practice of worshiping on Saturdays, a doctrine rooted in their interpretation of the Fourth Commandment (“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy” - Exodus 20:8, NKJV).
The Old Lutherans: In 1817 Prussia, Lutheran deacon John Scheibel led a faction away from the Lutheran Church in opposition to its union with the Reformed Church. This group, called the Old Lutherans, sought to preserve what they saw as the purity of Lutheran doctrine.
These examples demonstrate that sects often arise from a desire to uphold or return to specific biblical convictions. While these divisions may not always be ideal, they reflect the diversity and complexity of Christian thought.
Reasons for the Formation of Christian Sects
Sects typically form when believers feel compelled to separate from a larger group over disagreements regarding doctrine, practice, or governance. Common reasons for such divisions include:
Doctrinal Differences: Disagreements over key theological issues, such as predestination versus free will, often lead to splits.
“Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” (Amos 3:3, NKJV).
Biblical Practices: Divergent interpretations of Scripture regarding practices like foot-washing or the Sabbath.
“Let each be fully convinced in his own mind” (Romans 14:5, NKJV).
Cultural and Social Issues: Historical debates over slavery, women’s roles, or other human rights issues.
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28, NKJV).
Church Governance: Disagreements over issues such as whether pastors should be paid or the proper structure of church leadership.
“Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine” (1 Timothy 5:17, NKJV).
Evangelism and Missionary Work: Differing opinions on the methods and importance of evangelism and missions.
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19, NKJV).
Worship Style: Conflicts over music, including whether to use instruments in worship.
“Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet; praise Him with the lute and harp!” (Psalm 150:3, NKJV).
Prophetic Interpretation: Differing views on eschatology, such as the timing of the rapture or the nature of the millennial kingdom.
“For we know in part and we prophesy in part” (1 Corinthians 13:9, NKJV).
Experiential Theology: Debates over the continuation or cessation of spiritual gifts like prophecy and tongues.
“Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:19–21, NKJV).
Are Christian Sects Always Negative?
While divisions within the body of Christ are often lamentable, the formation of sects is not inherently sinful or detrimental. As long as a group does not slip into heresy or animosity, and spiritual pride does not motivate the separation, a sect can serve as an expression of believers’ conscientious convictions.
The apostle Paul acknowledged the inevitability of divisions:
“For there must also be factions among you, that those who are approved may be recognized among you” (1 Corinthians 11:19, NKJV).
Sects, when formed out of genuine love for the truth and a desire for holiness, can serve as a witness to the church’s commitment to biblical principles.
Avoiding Sectarianism
It is possible to belong to a sect without being overly sectarian. Sectarianism—an exclusive or divisive attitude toward other Christians—is condemned in Scripture. Jesus rebuked His disciples when they displayed a sectarian spirit:
“Now John answered and said, ‘Master, we saw someone casting out demons in Your name, and we forbade him because he does not follow with us.’ But Jesus said to him, ‘Do not forbid him, for he who is not against us is on our side’” (Luke 9:49–50, NKJV).
Christians should strive to maintain a spirit of humility and unity, recognizing that God can work through diverse groups and traditions. The ultimate goal is not to elevate one group over another but to glorify God and proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Conclusion
Christian sects reflect the diversity of the body of Christ, but they also remind us of the importance of remaining faithful to Scripture. As Baptists, we emphasize the authority of God’s Word in all matters of faith and practice. While denominational differences and sects may exist, we must always seek unity in the essentials of the faith:
The deity of Christ.
Salvation by grace through faith.
The authority of Scripture.
The call to holiness and evangelism.
By focusing on these core truths, we can honor Christ and avoid unnecessary divisions. Let us strive to be like-minded, seeking to glorify God in all that we do:
“Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion” (Romans 12:16, NKJV).
