Non-denominational - Is denomination a bad thing?

I always smile when someone tells me that they attend a non-denominational church. I’m a dictionary fan so I know that the word ‘denomination’ means ‘an act of denominating’ (according to Merriam-Webster). To denominate (again, according to M-W) means ‘to give a name to, to designate.’ In one sense, for a church to be non-denominational, it must be nameless, without designation. However, what most people mean when they say they are non-denominational and attend a non-denominational church is that their church, and thus their belief system, is not a part of a mainstream denomination or belief system (think Catholic, Methodist, Baptist, Lutheran, Presbyterian, Episcopalian, etc.) When someone says they are non-denominational, they usually state it with the connotation that there is something negative or wrong about belonging to a ‘denominational church.’ All churches, even ‘non-denominational’ churches follow belief systems, doctrinal guidelines, and practice worship in the same way that ‘denominational’ churches do.  In most cases, non-denominational (ND) churches have beliefs and worship styles that are very much like the very denominations which they claim not to be a part.

Non-denominational churches identify themselves as such for any number of different reasons. Some ND churches don’t want to be lumped together with well-known denominations that are associated with scandals or controversial stances. They may feel like having a denominational affiliation would exclude some of the people they are trying to reach, or perhaps they don’t want others to think their beliefs and practices are legalistic.

Whatever the reason that people prefer to be known as non-denominational, this designation does not mean their beliefs are theologically neutral. It’s important to understand that, while there’s nothing wrong with considering oneself or one’s church non-denominational, there is nothing inherently more neutral (or more Biblical) about one’s theology simply because they deny being a part of a major, established denomination.  It is always important to be aware of what any church that we attend believes, teaches, and confesses.  That way we can always make sure we are growing in faith and knowledge of the Truth.