“Cross”-examination: McKinney Bible Church

OMG. Not only no, but…..

I don’t mean that to sound rude or harsh. But boy! Were we in for a culture shock when we arrived. We were assuming this was a traditional Bible church, much like the Bible churches that pepper the metroplex area. This Bible church, however, was nothing like those other churches. Okay, so it had a building. And people. But that’s where the similarities ended.

As we discovered this morning, this church aligns itself doctrinally and to some degree practically with the Brethren churches. In fact, we were told that McKinney Bible Church is listed in the Brethren Handbook, even though it’s an independent, self-governing church. There were many women, both young and old, wearing headcoverings (scarves, hats, lace veils). The men are responsible for leading and teaching in the church. The only musical accompaniment was piano. There was no choir (or even a choir loft). The Lord’s Supper is observed every week, and families attend together (childcare is only provided for infants).

The commitment at this church is to expository Bible teaching, so the first hour from 9:15-10:15 is devoted to the “sermon”. The 10:45 hour is for a “celebration” service with no true script: the men are free to choose songs to sing, provide impromptu scripture lessons according to what is on their hearts, lead the congregation in prayer, and share testimonials. During that time, the elders distribute the bread and the cup, with each person taking them independently (no corporate “Do this in remembrance of Me”). At the end of the allotted time, one of the elders leads in prayer and announcements and the Meeting is adjourned.

It was quite obvious to us early on that this would not be the church home we are looking for, but it was a good experience for our family to attend a service that was definitely out of our comfort zone. To see how other believers celebrate their faith and take seriously their commitment to follow God’s word. To sing the old hymns and praise songs that are so often left out of modern worship services. To take communion as a family and explain the significance of the elements to our children. To watch men – young and old – assume positions of Godly leadership in their church and families and honor their place of God-given authority.

No, this is not the place for us, but we can be glad that there’s room in God’s kingdom for all believers, regardless of how we “work out our faith” – and that we live in a country that allows us that freedom.