Most of the American church scene has been structured around some type of an association. Normally, in its later stages, this takes the form of a denomination. While there has been a significant shift in the American church scene, (moving toward midsize and larger churches opting for independent churches status), there still is a need to be connected with other churches and pastors of like philosophical and doctrinal belief systems. Whichever the case may be, the question is: "What should a ministerial group offer its body of members?" While probably not a complete listing of all of the potential possibilities, I offer these personal views after experiencing both denominational and independent church status. I would welcome your comments, views and insights into areas that I may have overlooked.

Fellowship

The New Testament church set a high benchmark for all to follow. The Acts church valued fellowship. "And they continued steadfastly in the apostle's doctrine and in fellowship....." (Acts 2:42) This word "fellowship," or "koinonia," means "communion, partnership, participation, to communicate, distribution, benefaction." The early church was all about the above, and so should be the contemporary church today. However, fellowship is not in and of itself sufficient to begin or maintain a ministerial group. Non-religious groups many times fulfill the definition above ... and in some cases do a better job than we do.

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