Independent/Non-denominational churches can be recommended when:
- They have a clear, published statement of faith affirming essential doctrines
- Leadership holds to biblical inerrancy
- Clear position on biblical sexuality and marriage
- Pastor has theological training and accountability
- Church practices match their stated beliefs
CAUTION: The "non-denominational" label provides no guarantee. Each church must be individually evaluated using the criteria in "How to Find a Courageous Church."
DENOMINATION BACKGROUND
Independent and non-denominational churches have existed throughout Christian history but grew significantly in America during the 20th century. The movement accelerated with the rise of the megachurch phenomenon and dissatisfaction with denominational bureaucracy.
These churches are autonomous, self-governing congregations without formal denominational affiliation. They range from small house churches to massive megachurches, and from extremely conservative to very progressive in theology.
The label "non-denominational" has become popular in church marketing but provides no guarantee of doctrinal soundness. Each church must be evaluated individually on its statement of faith and practices.
Because each church is independent, there is no unified doctrinal trajectory. Patterns include:
- Many independent churches maintain strong biblical orthodoxy
- Some have drifted progressive without denominational accountability
- Megachurches can be especially prone to personality-driven drift
- No external body to enforce doctrinal standards
The book "How to Find a Courageous Church" emphasizes the importance of checking each church's statement of faith carefully, especially for independent churches.
Notable orthodox independent pastors:
- John MacArthur: Grace Community Church (Sun Valley, CA)
- Chuck Swindoll: Insight for Living, Stonebriar Community Church
- Charles Stanley: First Baptist Atlanta (technically SBC but functions independently)
- Alistair Begg: Parkside Church (Cleveland, OH)
- Greg Laurie: Harvest Christian Fellowship
Independent pastors of concern:
- Joel Osteen: Lakewood Church (prosperity gospel)
- T.D. Jakes: Potter's House (modalism concerns)
- Various megachurch pastors with theological issues
Recommended independent churches:
- Grace Community Church (Sun Valley, CA) - John MacArthur
- Parkside Church (Cleveland, OH) - Alistair Begg
- Stonebriar Community Church (Frisco, TX) - Chuck Swindoll
- McLean Bible Church (Vienna, VA) - Though recent controversy
- Moody Church (Chicago, IL) - D.L. Moody heritage
Churches to evaluate carefully or avoid:
- Lakewood Church (Houston, TX) - Joel Osteen, prosperity gospel
- Some churches using "non-denominational" to avoid accountability
