What Does God Think of Denominations?

A question that has been raised many times in the past is "What does God think of denominations?" Usually this question is asked by someone who, at the time they ask the question, is frustrated with denominations. Some see denominations as a direct affront to Jesus' prayer for unity. The thought is that denominations are a response to a disagreement that has brought about a schism which in turn has led to the establishment of a new denomination.

There is also a lot of talk about the post-denomination era. This seems to indicate a growing dissatisfaction with the divisiveness denominations can bring to relationships. However, I think that though that is true more of the discontent stems from the hierarchal authority structures most denominations operate with rather than the lack of unity.

I wonder if we may be headed for a new denominational era. (Though they will probably call them something else.) If we are, the question remains. I think God is grieved when denominations spring up because of division. The Apostle Paul warns about this. However, I think God loves when we are denominated along positive lines such as passion, style, focus, etc.

Look at creation. It was God who denominated the various forms we see within trees, flowers, animals, insects, colors, smells, weather, etc. Somehow there is strength in variety. Different does not necessarily mean disunity. The key to unity seems to be synergy not uniformity. This is what denominations of the future will look like. It will be groups of people coming together because of a like calling but who remain unified with the body. That's a denomination that is formed for a positive reason rather than a negative division. Come to think of it that's how my denomination was started!