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What Do Non-Denominational Churches Believe?

In a culture where many people identify as “spiritual but not religious,” traditional religious labels are often set aside in favor of personal faith experiences. 

This shift has led many to ask, "What do non-denominational churches believe?" The question is especially relevant as non-denominational churches continue to grow rapidly across the United States and around the world.

Although these churches do not affiliate with a specific denomination, most hold to core Christian beliefs and practices that define their identity. So, what do non-denominational churches believe?

The Short Answer: 

As a general rule, non-denominational churches believe (1) in the Trinity, (2) that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ alone, and (3) that the Bible is the inerrant Word of God. 

Most non-denominational churches are independent Protestant churches that are not associated with an official denomination or governing body. However, many of these churches choose to affiliate voluntarily with broader networks or associations to promote accountability, theological alignment, and a sense of community with other churches.

A Closer Look at Non-Denominational Church Beliefs

To better understand what non-denominational churches believe, it helps to explore the key elements of their theology and practice in more detail.

  1. Belief in the Trinity

Non-denominational churches affirm the doctrine of the Trinity, which is a foundational Christian belief that there is one God that exists in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This understanding of God’s nature aligns with traditional Christian teachings found in most Protestant denominations (i.e. Lutheran, Baptist, Methodist, etc.)

  1. Salvation by Faith in Jesus Christ Alone

Another core belief of non-denominational churches is that salvation is by grace alone through faith in Jesus Christ alone, not by works or religious rituals. This is one of the five "solas" of the Protestant reformation.

This belief holds that Jesus, the Son of God, died on the cross and rose from the dead to save people from their sins. Because of God's grace, forgiveness and eternal life are available to all who place their trust in Jesus through faith.

This belief emphasizes that salvation comes from faith in Jesus, rather than an individual’s membership in a particular religious institution or participation in a ritual.

  1. The Bible as the Inerrant Word of God

Non-denominational churches typically view the Bible as the inspired, authoritative, and inerrant word of God. It is considered the final authority in all matters of doctrine, faith, and church practice. The Bible is held in high regard.

While all holding to a high view of scripture, sermon styles in non-denominational churches can vary. Some churches favor verse-by-verse teaching and practical application of Scripture, while other churches prefer topical sermons that are supported by truths from scripture. In either case, the commitment to the Bible as the inerrant word of God is one of the primary reasons many believers are drawn to these churches.

Non-Denominational Ordinances: Baptism and Communion

Non-denominational churches differ in style, music, or organizational structure, but most of them observe two key ordinances that have been practiced by Christians for centuries: baptism and communion (also known as the Lord’s Supper or the Lord’s Table). 

These practices are an outward expression of inward spiritual realities.

Baptism

Non-denominational churches typically practice believer’s baptism—that is, baptism as a public declaration of faith following an individual’s decision to follow Jesus. This stands in contrast to traditions that baptize infants. 

Most non-denominational churches administer baptism by full immersion in water, symbolizing the believer’s identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ (Romans 6:4).

Baptism is viewed not as a ritual that saves, but as an important step of obedience and a powerful testimony to the church and the world of a person’s new life in Christ.

Communion

Communion, or the Lord’s Supper, is also regularly practiced in non-denominational churches, though the frequency and style can vary from church to church. Some observe it weekly, others monthly or quarterly. Some may exclusively break bread in small groups rather than Sunday services.

This ordinance serves as a reminder of Jesus’ sacrificial death, as believers eat bread and drink juice (or wine, depending on the church) in remembrance of His body and blood, based on Jesus’ words in Luke 22:19–20. Communion is typically open to all who have placed their faith in Christ, though some churches may provide brief guidance or reflection time to help people prepare their hearts.

Together, baptism and communion are cherished practices that help ground the life of the church in the gospel story and provide opportunities for reflection, unity, and spiritual renewal.

Independent but Connected

While non-denominational churches are not governed by a central denominational body, that doesn’t mean they operate in isolation. Many churches choose to affiliate voluntarily with broader organizations, church networks, or alliances. 

These affiliations are typically relational rather than hierarchical and offer benefits such as:

  • Theological guidance
  • Leadership support
  • Ministry collaboration
  • Accountability and oversight
  • Shared resources for missions and church planting

These connections allow churches to maintain their independence while also experiencing community and support within the wider body of Christ.

For example, Trinity Church, a non-denominational church in Chicago, is voluntarily affiliated with the Confluence network of churches in North America. This church network provides leadership support, hosts regional worship conferences and youth events, and offers various types of collaboration opportunities for the churches in their network.

Worship and Church Culture

Another reason people often ask, "What do non-denominational churches believe?" is that these churches frequently adopt a different tone and style than traditional denominational congregations. 

While some mainline Protestant denominations only sing traditional hymns in their worship services, non-denominational churches tend to sing contemporary worship music in addition to classic hymns. Similarly, the typical “dress code” in most non-denominational churches can often be seen as more casual than in other denominational churches. 

This more contemporary approach to church life is appealing to many people who are seeking an authentic, relational, and accessible experience of Christianity.

Why Non-Denominational Churches Are Growing

The rise of non-denominational churches is more than a trend—it reflects a significant shift in how people engage with faith. Some of the reasons for this growth include:

  • Disillusionment with denominational politics or bureaucracy
  • A desire for clear, Bible-based teaching in church services
  • A focus on a personal relationship with Jesus instead of rote traditions
  • Greater flexibility in church structure and programming
  • A welcoming environment for people from diverse backgrounds

These factors contribute to why more people are exploring non-denominational churches and seeking them out.

Summary

Most non-denominational churches believe in the Trinity, salvation through faith in Jesus Christ alone, and the Bible as the authoritative word of God. Though independent from formal denominations, many of these churches still seek connection and accountability through voluntary partnerships.

Whether you’re exploring Christianity for the first time or looking for a church that more closely aligns with your values and beliefs, a non-denominational church might be what you are looking for.