Introduction:
In the previous posts of this series on Salvation, we learned several key points: Part 1 explained that salvation is the deliverance from sin and its consequences through faith in Jesus Christ. It is a gift from God, and to receive it, we must be born again. Salvation is a central theme in Christianity. Part 2 discussed the assurance of salvation, which gives believers confidence in their relationship with God and their eternal future. However, theologians have long debated key aspects of salvation, leading to confusion and division among Christians. And Part 3 explored how these divisions began. Early Christian leaders faced challenges in locating, organizing, and interpreting the Holy Scriptures. These difficulties led to disagreements, schisms, and the formation of different Christian denominations.
This separation was not what Jesus intended for His followers. He prayed, “That they may all be one, just as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You” (John 17:21). He desired His church to be united in love, serving as a testimony of His truth to the world. As Christians, our greatest responsibility is to be a light to the world (Matthew 5:14). This raises an important question: How can we work toward unity despite our differences and divisions? In Part 4 of this series, we will explore a promising path toward Christian unity—ecumenism.
The Promising Possibility of Ecumenism
Theologians and many church leaders recognize ecumenism as a promising possibility toward church unity. But what is it and how does it work? Ecumenism is a movement that aims to bring different Christian churches together. It encourages unity and cooperation by focusing on the beliefs, values, and goals that Christians share. The goal of ecumenism is to fulfill Jesus’ prayer in John 17:21: “That they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.”
Ecumenism offers hope for healing divisions within Christianity. By talking openly and working together, churches can clear up misunderstandings, heal old hurts, and find common ground in sharing the Gospel. When Christians focus on what they have in common instead of what divides them, they can show a stronger and more united witness to the world. This unity can lead to joint efforts in charity, social justice, and spreading the message of Jesus, which can have a big, positive impact on society. Nonetheless, despite the potential toward the unity the church needs, not all churches support ecumenism.
Why Do Some Churches Object to Ecumenism?
There are many reasons why many churches do not support ecumenism. Their concerns generally fall into three main areas which are: doctrinal differences, authority and leadership, and moral and social issues. In the following passage, we will discuss those three areas of concern.
Doctrinal Differences: Some churches worry that working with other Christian groups could weaken their beliefs or cause them to change important teachings. They may believe their interpretation of the Bible is the only correct one and fear that joining with others could lead to compromising key beliefs, such as salvation, the sacraments (like communion), or the role of faith and works. Certain churches that see themselves as the “one true church” may view ecumenism as a threat or simply unnecessary.
Authority and Leadership Concerns: Some churches have strong leadership structures and worry that ecumenism could challenge their authority. Historical divisions—such as those between Catholics and Protestants—have caused deep mistrust, making unity difficult. Many churches also focus on evangelism rather than ecumenism. They believe that instead of finding unity through cooperation, true unity should come from bringing others into their own faith.
Moral and Social Issues: Churches often disagree on important social and moral topics, such as marriage, abortion, LGBTQ+ issues, and gender roles. Some fear that ecumenism could pressure them into changing their views or create confusion among their members. Others worry that ecumenism could lead to a false, one-world religion, which some believe is connected to end-times prophecies in the Bible.
How Can We Work Toward Unity?
Unity among Christians can happen in two main ways: through church organizations and through individual efforts.
At the organizational level, church groups can promote unity by starting conversations between different denominations, finding common ground, and working together on projects. Groups like the World Council of Churches help build bridges between churches. Local churches can also teach about unity in sermons and Bible studies. Working together on community service projects is a great way to show unity in action. While this kind of change can take a long time, patience, perseverance, and prayer are important.
On a personal level, every Christian can help promote unity. Showing love, respect, and kindness to Christians from different backgrounds is a good start. Avoiding hurtful or divisive talk is also important. By focusing on the basics of Christian faith—like Jesus as Lord, salvation through grace, and the truth of the Bible—individuals can help keep peace in the church. Joining Bible studies, prayer groups, and service projects with other Christians can help break down barriers. Prayer is also powerful, as Jesus himself prayed for unity in John 17:21. Each believer is responsible for their spiritual growth and should remember that Jesus is coming back for all true believers worldwide, not just one group or denomination.
A Journey Worth Taking
Ecumenism is not a quick fix. It takes time, effort, and a real commitment to love and understanding. Achieving unity in Christianity is a big challenge, but with patience and humility, it is possible. When Christians strive for unity with a spirit of love and faith, they take a powerful step toward making Jesus’ prayer for unity a reality and showing the world the strength of God’s love through a unified church.
Related Posts:
Salvation Series: Part 1 – How Can I Be Saved?
