5 Beliefs That Set the Salvation Army Apart From Other Christians

What stands out about The Salvation Army Christian Church among other denominations is its strong dedication to serve others, wherever, whenever and to whomever needs it.

The Salvation Army focuses on community transformation and rehabilitation. Their primary mission is to serve God by helping others, even if it involves difficult situations like helping prisoners create a new life for themselves.

Instead of excluding specific groups for what they do or do not believe, they reach out to Christians and non-Christians alike.

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Here are five beliefs that set the Salvation Army Christians apart from others:

1. Core Beliefs

The Salvation Army shares similar beliefs to many other Christian organizations. The Salvation Army USA website outlines 11 core beliefs. These include the belief in one God, that the Bible was inspired by God, Jesus Christ atoned for the sins of the world, and repentance and faith in Jesus are necessary for salvation.

They go on to say that they "believe that it is the privilege of all believers to be wholly sanctified and that their whole spirit, soul and body may be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." It should be noted in saying "all believers," they do not designate any specific doctrines or rituals that must be followed in order to be saved by God.

2. Military Hierarchy

Unlike the traditional structure of the Christian church, the Salvation Army is organized more akin to a military organization, according to The Christian Courier. It starts with a general, who is located in its London headquarters. The general communicates with a chief of staff and orders are followed down the chain of command.

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3. Acceptance of Women Preachers

According to The Christian Courier, the wife of the Salvation Army founder was a female preacher. During her career, she worked hard to validate the right of women to preach the gospel.

4. Baptism is Not Required

The Salvation Army believe baptism is  unnecessary for salvation. Water Beach Salvation Army UK offered several reasons for this on the organization's website. The Salvation Army founders viewed baptism as a ritual some Christians use to replace having a genuine inward spiritual relationship with God.

However, Salvation Army members do have the right to become baptized in another church if they so desire. According to Water Beach Salvation, their primary requirement for membership is to ask God for forgiveness and acknowledge that Jesus Christ is their Savior.

5. Do Not Partake in Communion

Salvation Army Christians do not partake in communion. They do not condemn the use of sacraments, nor do they "deny that other Christians receive grace from God through using them," according to the Water Beach Salvation Army UK. They also explained the Salvation Army believes that living a holy life and receiving the grace of God can take place regardless of whether an individual participates in specific religious rituals or not.

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