Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.

~ Ephesians 4:3 ~

EXHORTED BY CHRIST HIMSELF:

CHRISTIAN UNITY IS PARAMOUNT TO DISCIPLESHIP

 

Whenever the life of an individual or a Faith Community is centered upon Jesus Christ (1), Christian Unity is impenetrable and the Holy Spirit (2) is unleashed and poured out abundantly upon them. Likewise, whenever and whereever an individual is centered upon anything other than the Messiah (3), it's an open invitation for Satan (4) to dance and play in our sanctuaries, households and workplaces (1 Peter 5:8). This is why Christian Unity is emphasized with great importance and frequency in the Holy Bible (5). We cannot, as the Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-30), stand firm (6) against evil when we are divided as Followers (7) of Christ Jesus.

 

WHAT IS CHRISTIAN UNITY/ECUMENISM?

 

One could probably ask 14 Christians from various denominations to define Christian Unity and get 16 different responses. That's no knock on those being queried; it's just that not too many speak of it and there's no one definitive answer floating around the Christian Community at large. However, Ephesians 4 offers us divine guidance on Unity and Maturity in the Body of Christ as well as Instructions for Christian Living.

 

Taking in the spirit of the wording, let us define Christian Unity as the effort of promoting unity amongst the world's Christian churches. Another term for this is ecumenism. Ecumenism refers to efforts by Christians of different church traditions to develop closer relationships and better understandings of one another.

 

SPIRITUAL SUPERIORITY

 

Karl Vaters authored a very sound blog post (a) which touched on the hot button topic of Theological Disagreements. Mr. Vaters said, "It would be great if we all agreed on exactly the right theology all the time. But we don't. And we never will this side of Heaven (8). So I've learned to appreciate the value of disagreeing agreeably – you know, without calling someone a heretic for having a different Second Coming (9) timeline than I have….As mature believers in Jesus – especially as Christian leaders – we should be able to tell the difference between our personal preferences and moral absolutes."

What a refreshing response! Too often, we hear Christians (see above cartoon which, unfortunately, paints a realistic picture in some Christian circles) speak ill of a sister denomination because of theological differences. No wonder the Enemy is alive and well in our midst! Akin to the Sons of Thunder (Matthew 20:20-28), we have Christian denominations fighting amongst one another as to whom has the "superior spiritual edge," while- at the same time- quoting to others one of the most misused verses in the Bible (Matthew 7:1-2). We've given the Enemy a foothold in our own House (Ephesians 4:26-27) while lamenting that our life isn't everything what we want it to be. As we’re all sinners who fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23), it's realistic to offer that nobody has the market cornered on all things Jesus. Amen? For more on how to vanquish the Enemy, check out our Spiritual Warfare (10) webpage.

 

DOCTRINAL DIFFERENCES:

THE ENEMY OF CHRISTIAN UNITY

 

As Mr. Vaters pointed out, our doctrinal differences will, more than likely, never be ironed out before Jesus comes back. Hopefully, this doesn't delay His return. If this is the case, we're probably in for a long wait before Jesus splits the Eastern sky and returns in His glory. So, what now? For starters, although we have doctrinal differences amongst us (some are trivial while others are colossal), we do share much in common with one another. As a launching point, perhaps we could celebrate those with one another.

 

Another issue of titanic importance is how we address and/or respond (or don't respond) to our internal differences. Simply put, we're being watched- by God Himself (11) and the outside world. The secular community (and yes, some self-described Christian circles as well) is full of God skeptics who lie in wait for us to commit our next sin (12) so that we may be eternally labeled as the biggest hypocrite in the entire history of all mankind. They say, "churches are full of a bunch of hypocrites." They’re right. It's true. But there's always room for one more. Why are some Christians so defensive about this undisputable truth which lies at the very heart of the Gospel (13) they themselves claim to have a monopoly on?

Churches are a grouping of very imperfect sinners who congregate with one another, (hopefully) seeking God's bottomless grace (14), agape love (15), unsurpassed peace (16) and unparalleled mercy (17). Rather than a layered, multi-paragraphed manifesto, here's what should be our simple Mission Statement: Seek First the Kingdom of God (18) (Matthew 6:33). Why? It's the very foundation of what our Mission Mandate is. When we do this, everything else falls into place and supernatural routes we never thought possible are opened to us (think of Paul's (19) Damascus (20) conversion when his mind was opened and he saw EVERYTHING)…Jesus prayed for His followers to be unified, ‘so that the world may believe’ (John 17:20-23).

 

THE FISHBOWL AND WOE TO US

 

Let’s revisit our original point above that we're being watched. Why would a prospective member want to be a part of any organization that lays claim to spiritual supremacy over all others while some of their members (including leaders!) verbally vomit on those who don't share their beliefs? It happens, folks, and it's not addressed effectively enough to eradicate it from seminary teachings and anywhere else these un-Godly thoughts and actions are implanted. That's what Mr. Vaters was getting at earlier in this article. Jesus said, “By their fruit, you will recognize them” (Matthew 7:15-20). Attacking another person’s faith (or lack of) for being different is not fruitful and does not advance God’s Kingdom.

 

What’s hypocrisy? As defined by none other than the King of kings Himself, the Bible offers a rather vivid account of this double speak. The largest slice of Humble Pie ever served up was by Jesus Christ to the Religious leaders during His earthly Ministry (21) (Matthew 23). This chapter speaks clearly of how arrogance and man-made ideals at any level will assuredly poison, sicken and shipwreck a person and/or an entire Faith Community. 2,000 years later, we still have much work to do in this regard.

 

The importance of Unity among Christians is mentioned in both the Old Testament (22) and New Testament (23) (Psalms 133:1, John 17:22). But before taking on this gargantuan endeavor, we must examine whether we are in lockstep regarding the Authority of the Good News (2 Timothy 3:16-17), what it tells us about the exclusive nature of salvation in Christ (John 14:6; 1 Timothy 2:5), and the total surrender to and dependence upon God’s grace for salvation (Romans 3:24, Romans 3:28, Ephesians 2:8-9, Galatians 2:16).

 

THE PURPOSE OF & PREPARATION FOR

CHRISTIAN UNITY

 

What's the purpose of Christian Unity? Scripture gives clear guidance as to how Bible-believing Christians are to live and conduct themselves. Colossians 3:17 exhorts, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Jesus encourages us in Matthew 5:16, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in Heaven.” Matthew 28:19–20 and 1 Corinthians 2:2 exhort that preaching and teaching the WHOLE Gospel is our main mission. We can clothe the needy, give groceries to the poor, shelter the homeless, pave the streets, dig a well, pay somebody's utility bill for them during tough times, but we need to understand that we don't have the market cornered on these treasure-storing activities (Matthew 6:19-21). Atheists and Agnostics commit to these wonderful deeds as well. But if we aren't sharing the Gospel of eternal salvation while we're performing these good deeds or acts of mercy, we’ve completely missed the mark and a passed up a golden evangelistic opportunity with a captive audience to give God glory and bring souls Home to Him. We need to tell people WHY we’re doing what we’re doing by sharing the Word of Christ with the hungry and thirsty.

 

Before moving into an ecumenical endeavor, are we discerning upon our motive? Are we preaching the WHOLE Gospel? Are we focused on using the Gospel to transform hearts and minds (Romans 12:2) without being led by political and/or social issues? The ultimate goal of our actions should be the salvation of lost sinners (Ephesians 2:1–3), as the angels of heaven rejoice over one sinner who repents (Luke 15:10). There is nothing in the Bible that says the angels (24) rejoice when a law is passed, when a well is dug, or when a street is paved. (Not that there is anything wrong with accomplishing those things, but they cannot be allowed to overshadow the Gospel.) As we contemplate ecumenical ventures, we need to make sure God’s Kingdom is being expanded through evangelism. (b)

 

In conclusion, should we be involved in ecumenical cooperation with other Christian churches and other groups of believers? If there is no doctrinal compromise on core Christian belief, if the gospel is not being watered-down or sidelined, if believers can maintain a clear testimony before the world, and if God is glorified, then we may freely and joyfully join with other believers in pursuit of God’s kingdom. (b)

 

HOW DOES CHRISTIAN UNITY BECOME FRAYED?

 

As we know the schemes of the Enemy are endless, so goes the efforts of Christian Unity. This is why the Good News encourages us to put on the Armor of God (25). Here's a short list of reasons a believer and/or a Faith Community can become ensnared: Whenever Man is placed before Christ; whenever mortal ideals and opinions are valued more than the Word of God; where everyone's respective religious denomination is placed over the desires and commands of Christ; whenever the Law is permitted to reign supreme over the Holy Spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:19).

 

HE SAID IT

 

"If you believe what you like in the Gospel, and reject what you don't like,

it is not the Gospel you believe, but yourself."

 

Augustine of Hippo, early Christian theologian (354-430)

 

 

SCHISM AND HERESY: A DIFFERENCE

 

There is a difference between schism (rejection of Communion with the authorities of a Church) and heresy (rejection of a doctrine that a Church considers to be essential). (c)

 

HOW CAN WE REPAIR THE BREACH?

 

As Christians, our benchmark must be the Word of Christ before anything else. A question offered for discernment is this: How can we consider ourselves "His followers" if we're following any other way (Luke 6:46)?

 

THE SPIRITUAL LITMUS TEST

 

If your denomination has a Faith Doctrine, how does it line up with the timeless, God-inspired Scriptures offered herein? The real test is not where the two are in lockstep, but in where they are not…See below for dozens of Scriptures related to Christian Unity.

 

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Any excerpts offered herein from external resources have been published with permission and no monetary gain is being sought. Footnotes within the narrative have been inserted by The Marion County Manna Project and re-direct to our webpages (unless otherwise noted) for additional spiritual insight and reflection.

 

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If you're seeking additional information about Christianity on a more personal level, consider visiting a Christian Church here in Marion County (26). Introduce yourself to members and ask to speak with someone to learn more about Jesus. Surrendering your life to Christ (27) (d) is the most rewarding and everlasting decision you'll ever make, and it's comforting to have someone guide you as you begin your new life as a child of the Most High! May God shower you with great favor in this endeavor!

 

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Footnotes, Page Credits and External Resources appear below. Consider printing and sharing the offered PDF narrative and other listed resources with family, friends and strangers alike for use in Bible Studies (28), Home/Church Faith Sharing Groups (29), Discipleship Encounters and/or Personal Faith Enrichment!

 

Modifications are welcome at [email protected].

 

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SELECTED BIBLE VERSES

RELATED TO CHRISTIAN UNITY

 

Old Testament

Deuteronomy 3:18, Joshua 22:3, Judges 20:11, Ruth 1:16-17, 1 Samuel 14:7, 1 Samuel 18:1-4, Ezra 3:8-10, Nehemiah 4:6, Psalms 133:1, Isaiah 34:16, Malachi 2:10.

 

New Testament

Matthew 18:19-20, Matthew 23:8-9, Luke 3:11, Acts 2:44-45, Acts 4:32, Acts 10:45-47, Romans 8:15-17, Romans 12:13, 16, Romans 14:17, Romans 15:27, 1 Corinthians 1:10, 1 Corinthians 10:16-17, 1 Corinthians 1:24, 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, 1 Corinthians 12:13, 2 Corinthians 1:7, 2 Corinthians 13:11, 2 Corinthians 13:14, Galatians 3:26-28, Galatians 6:6, Ephesians 2:17-19, Ephesians 2:22, Ephesians 4, Philippians 1:27, Philippians 2:2, Philippians 4:2, 14, Colossians 1:12-14, Colossians 3:11-15, 1 Thessalonians 2:8, 2 Timothy 2:6, Titus 1:4, Hebrews 6:4, Hebrews 10:24-25, 1 Peter 2:9-10, 1 Peter 3:8, 1 John 1:1-3.

FOOTNOTES:
 

  (1) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/jesus-christ

  (2) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/the-holy-spirit

  (3) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/jesus-the-messiah

  (4) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/Satan

  (5) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/the-good-news

  (6) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/stand-firm-in-christ

  (7) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/discipleship

  (8) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/Heaven

  (9) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/Day-of-the-Lord

(10) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/spiritual-warfare

(11) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/god-of-the-bible

(12) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/sin

(13) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/what-are-the-gospels

(14) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/grace

(15) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/love

(16) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/peace

(17) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/mercy

(18) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/seek-first-his-kingdom

(19) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/ambassador-in-chains

(20) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/damascus

(21) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/ministry-of-jesus

(22) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/old-testament

(23) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/new-testament

(24) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/angels

(25) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/armor-of-god

(26) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/listing-by-city

(27) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/the-gracious-visitor

(28) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/bible-studies

(29) https://www.marionmannaproject.com/christian-education

 

PAGE CREDITS:
 

(a) 5 Churchy Things I'm Thankful For Even If I Don't Like Them, Karl Vaters Blog, accessed January 12, 2020 https://www.christianitytoday.com/karl-vaters/2016/november/5-churchy-things-im-thankful-for-even-if-i-dont-like-them.html?paging=off

(b) Is Ecumenism Biblical?, Got Questions Ministries, accessed January 12, 2020 https://www.gotquestions.org/ecumenism-ecumenical.html

(c)  Differences between Schism and Heresy, Wikipedia, accessed January 12, 2020 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schism

(d)  How Do I Convert to Christianity?, Got Questions Ministries, accessed January 12, 2020    https://www.gotquestions.org/convert-to-Christianity.html

 

OTHER EXTERNAL RESOURCES:
 

(e) http://www.oikoumene.org/en

(f) http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/chrstuni/sub-index/index_weeks-prayer.htm

WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY

 

The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, observed annually between January 18-25, is an international Christian ecumenical octave (8 days) that began in 1908. The theme for the 2021 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, "Abide in My Love and You Shall Bear Much Fruit," was inspired by John 15:5-9. 2021's event was celebrated from May 16-23. For themes from previous years, please explore this link. The 2022 theme will be posted here upon finalization of planning.