Kitchen Table Theology
Where Coffee, Conversation, and Theology Meet. During my 40 years in ministry, I’ve developed an increasing burden for what I sense to be an increase in biblical illiteracy, not only among those in our churches, but also in the young men and women entering the ministry. Conversely, I am hopeful, because I also sense a hunger from people to learn and know biblical truth and the things of God has revealed to us in Scripture. Our Kitchen Table Theology team has developed a list of over 150 doctrinal topics which I, along with one of my cohosts, Jen Denton or Tiffany Coker, examine weekly. Our goal is to educate and share biblical truth on the same level as if we were sitting at your kitchen table with a Bible and a pot of southern pecan coffee in front of us. Welcome to the table!
Kitchen Table Theology
246 The Christian & Missionary Alliance (CMA) Baptism, Communion, and Church Life
Pastor Jeff Cranston continues his conversation with Pastor Jason of Crossway Church as they dive deeper into what makes the Christian and Missionary Alliance denomination distinct. They explore how the Alliance approaches communion and baptism, what a typical Sunday service looks like, and how its leadership structure supports both local autonomy and global mission.
🎉 P.S. This episode is part of our ongoing series exploring the major Protestant denominations. Be sure to check out previous episodes to learn more about traditions like Lutheranism, Presbyterianism, and more!
Here’s What We Discussed:
01:18 – What to Expect at a Typical CMA Church
There is no standard format for CMA churches. Each church may differ in size, style, and cultural background. What binds them is their core doctrine, the Fourfold Gospel, and their mission to reach the lost locally and globally.
03:32 – Worship at Crossway Church
Crossway’s Sunday service includes a warm welcome, coffee, live worship, a 35-minute Bible-centered message, and additional elements like baptisms, child dedications, or testimonies.
05:00 – How the CMA Practices Baptism
Baptism is offered to any believer able to articulate their faith. Immersion is preferred, but accommodations are made for health or personal reasons. Services are sometimes held outdoors with food and celebration.
06:00 – How Communion Is Practiced Today
Communion is held monthly, including special occasions like Good Friday. Post-COVID, sealed cups with wafers are used instead of passing a plate. The church sees communion as a powerful act of remembrance, mystery, and unity.
07:13 – CMA Church Governance Model
Churches are elder protected, leader directed, and congregation implemented. Elders provide oversight, staff lead ministries, and the congregation is encouraged to actively serve.
08:00 – The District and National Structure
Crossway belongs to the Western Great Lakes district, one of the smaller CMA districts in the U.S. Each church runs its own affairs but is connected to a district superintendent, national leadership, and global missions partners.
09:23 – Collaboration with Alliance and Non-Alliance Partners
CMA churches support both alliance-sponsored and outside ministries, participating in local revitalization, church planting, and global missions efforts.
10:58 – Final Encouragements and Resources
Pastor Jeff and Pastor Jason encourage listeners to explore writings by A.B. Simpson and A.W. Tozer for a deeper look into CMA theology and heart for mission.
Key Quote:
“Once someone is of an age where they can generally articulate that they're a follower of Jesus Christ, child or adult, they can be baptized.” – Pastor Jason Esposito
Visit https://www.crosswayc.org to know more about our guest!
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Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!