[Alex Murphy]

I think this reflects one of the problems of non-denominational churches. In most denominations you can't simply change churches. In my own denomination, even as a member, you are required to have a letter of transfer from your old church. Keeps those undergoing church disciple from jumping from church to church

This is a great point. The biggest issue with non-denoms IMO is accountability, whether it's to an organization or even to a written Statement of Faith. They simply don't have an accountability to anyone higher than themselves, and therefore nothing external to keep them in check morally and theologically, and nothing in writing that informs the congregation about what is actually believed by the institution and it's pastorate.

[CynicalBear]

>>They simply don't have an accountability to anyone higher than themselves, and therefore nothing external to keep them in check morally and theologically<<

It seems to me that the underlying premise to that statement is in error and I wonder if you see that the statement itself is correct regardless. The "accountability" should be to Christ and His written word. Creating a hierarchy of so called "denominations" is Nicolaitanism. It's basically the idea of a "ruling class" over the people. Christ spoke against it in Matthew 20:26 and again in Revelation.

So while your statement is correct in that they don't recognize the authority of Christ the authority of a ruling class is as much in error.

[Mr Rogers]

When asked, Jesus said “Church discipline is maintained by working things up the chain of command...”

At least among Baptists, the hiring of a new pastor requires a vote by either the deacons or the congregation as a whole. It is upon them to exercise due diligence...and they are the ones who will suffer if they do not.

[chuckles]

I didn't see the perps new church address. Was he Baptist or non denom? I came out of Baptists to non denominational and they do background checks and get letters from previous employers. I suppose you could get into a cult meeting in a garage with no paperwork, but most churches of any size need something. This stuff is just too wide spread to ignore anymore. One problem, ( IMHO) is the spread of homosexuality. They are not chastised in the general public anymore, so you could get one applying for youth minister and not really find out if he/she doesn't volunteer info. It would be easy to have a job or come from teaching and pass yourself off as normal unless you have hurt someone and police were called. What we find is a youth leader that is watched like a hawk around young girls, but no one cares if he hangs with the boys, so no one watches. A female could start the girls softball team and no one would care,...easy pickings.

I hate to say it but any adult WANTING to work with young people should be double watched no matter the setup.