CALVARY CHAPEL DISTINCTIVES

by Chuck Smith

What is it that makes Calvary Chapel different from other Bible-believing, evangelical churches?

One of the mistaken concepts many have is that all Christians and churches should be identical. They assume that “unity” is equivalent to “sameness.” But Paul points out that differences do and will exist between churches and individuals in Christ:

“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men.” 1 Corinthians 12:4-6

We are called to unity in faith and doctrine, and there should be no tolerance for false, heretical doctrine. But on issues of style and practice, there should be tolerance. These are the areas of personal preference that should be respected. We refer to these as “distinctives.” They represent diversity within the greater Christian unity.

God has done a wonderful work in the Calvary Chapel movement and we are thankful to the Lord for that.

Download the entire book for free