Expert: Carl Fuglein - 2/3/2010

Question
Gettin' sick of me yet? Lol. Just kidding.

But yeah, I've got another question.

In order to be a Christian, do you have to belong to a certain church/group? Or can you take your beliefs from the Bible/all forms of Christianity and do your own studying?
Also, I've never been introduced to any differences in any forms of Christianity. I just know they're there, and that I'm a Christian. My mom was raised Roman Catholic, but her other sisters and brothers are other forms.  I have absolutely no idea what form I am.
I'm sure I can find one, so don't go looking for one if you don;t know one, but I was wondering if you knew off the top of your head a site/resource that explains the differences in a way that's not extremely complicated.

thanks so much!
-Jen

Answer
Here's a chart that compares the main non Catholic Christian churches to the Catholic church:

http://www.saintaquinas.com/christian_comparison.html

Here's an interesting essay that may be too complicated, but it highlights the fact that there are over 30,000 Christian organizations in the world.

http://www.religioustolerance.org/christ7.htm

here's one that's a little easier to understand:

http://christianity.about.com/od/denominations/Denominations.htm

You don't have to belong to a certain denomination or vhurch, but it's important to belong to SOME church, as being with fellow believers is very important.  Some churches think they're the only one that counts, I'd stay away from them, because I think Christianity allows a wide spectrrum of beliefs after you get past the basics.

hope this helps.

carl