Are all denominations divided?

A common concern that Mormons have about Christianity centers on the many denominations of Christian churches. It is often assumed that each of the different Christian denominations are divided. So why are there so many denominations?

Most denominations are not divided on the fundamental beliefs of the Christian faith, as many people assume.

We believe in both closed-handed and open-handed doctrines. The closed handed doctrines are those core beliefs that have united Brothers and Sisters in Christ throughout the ages. Things like Salvation by Grace alone, the Trinity, that there only ever has been and ever will be one God, that He created everything that exists. These are the very beliefs that make us Christian.

But the open-handed doctrines are those important but non-essential doctrines where Christian viewpoints differ.

Things like when Christ will return, the mode, method, and timing of baptism, worship styles, strategies of evangelism, and some cultural distinctives. These are issues on which we have different opinions and preferences but we embrace each other as fellow believers. This is a good thing! These variations reflect the transcendent reality of God. For example, each of my kids looks a bit different…they have different personalities, different skills, different likes and dislikes, and different opinions. But they are all a part of the same family. In this way, the diversity in my family is not a weakness, but a sign of health! Unity should not be confused with Uniformity.