Quote (Kamikizzle @ Dec 6 2011 12:29am)
baptist for instance holds the belief that baptism is required for salvation.
No it doesn't. Baptists believe that baptism is nothing more than a public profession of faith. When you are saved (through the "sinner's prayer" or asking Jesus to be in your life) the spirit "baptizes" you at that point and saves you.
** There are too many differences between denominational doctrine to name them all. A lot of denominations believe in the "once saved always saved" doctrines, a lot don't. A lot of denominations believe baptism (immersion) is essential for salvation, a lot don't. Some denominations believe in predestination, some do not. Some believe only a select group have the power of the holy spirit, some do not. There are really too many differences to list. Some denominations have small differences between them (because they most likely branched from them), and some have huge doctrinal differences.
Most churches have a "statement of faith" that will outline their core doctrinal beliefs. Find one that fits what you believe (after you do your own biblical research) and attend. Once you go to the service talk with the minister to get a more detailed belief system that the church upholds. They should ALWAYS be able to back up their beliefs with biblical reference. Be sure to do your own study on those references afterwards.
This post was edited by Dune1 on Dec 6 2011 10:04am