Disciples of Christ Church Doctrine vs. Oneness Doctrine

Attribute	Disciples of Christ Church Doctrine	Oneness Doctrine
Belief in the Trinity	Yes	No
Belief in Baptism	Yes	Yes
Belief in Salvation	Grace through faith	Through Jesus Christ
Belief in the Bible	Inspired word of God	Inspired word of God

Beliefs

Disciples of Christ Church Doctrine emphasizes the belief in the Trinity, which consists of God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), and God the Holy Spirit. They believe in the divinity of Jesus Christ and the importance of baptism for the forgiveness of sins. On the other hand, Oneness Doctrine believes in the oneness of God, rejecting the traditional Trinitarian view. They believe that God is manifested in three different modes or roles, rather than three distinct persons.

Salvation

Disciples of Christ Church Doctrine teaches that salvation is obtained through faith in Jesus Christ and baptism. They believe that baptism is an essential part of the salvation process and that it symbolizes the washing away of sins. On the other hand, Oneness Doctrine teaches that salvation is obtained through faith in Jesus Christ alone, without the necessity of baptism for salvation. They believe that baptism is an outward expression of an inward faith.

Church Structure

Disciples of Christ Church Doctrine follows a congregationalist structure, where each individual congregation is autonomous and self-governing. They believe in the priesthood of all believers and emphasize the importance of local church autonomy. On the other hand, Oneness Doctrine follows a hierarchical structure, with a central authority overseeing all churches. They believe in the authority of the pastor and the need for submission to church leadership.

Worship Practices

Disciples of Christ Church Doctrine practices open communion, where all believers are welcome to participate in the Lord's Supper regardless of denominational affiliation. They believe in the importance of unity among believers and the sharing of the Eucharist as a symbol of that unity. On the other hand, Oneness Doctrine practices closed communion, where only members of their specific church are allowed to participate in the Lord's Supper. They believe in the need for doctrinal purity and separation from other beliefs.

Scriptural Interpretation

Disciples of Christ Church Doctrine interprets scripture using a combination of reason, tradition, and experience. They believe in the importance of studying the Bible in its historical and cultural context to understand its true meaning. On the other hand, Oneness Doctrine interprets scripture more literally, believing in the infallibility and inerrancy of the Bible. They believe that the Bible is the ultimate authority in all matters of faith and practice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Disciples of Christ Church Doctrine and Oneness Doctrine have significant differences in their beliefs, practices, and interpretations of scripture. While Disciples of Christ Church Doctrine emphasizes the Trinity, baptism for salvation, congregationalist church structure, open communion, and a more nuanced approach to scripture, Oneness Doctrine focuses on the oneness of God, salvation through faith alone, hierarchical church structure, closed communion, and a literal interpretation of scripture. Both doctrines have their own unique strengths and weaknesses, appealing to different individuals based on their theological preferences and beliefs.