Ecumenism - June 16, 2009

Scripture:

• John 10:16
• Acts 4:32-37
• Romans 12:4-5
• Romans 15:5-6
• 1 Corinthians 1:10-17
• Ephesians 4:1-6

Articles:

• Faith in Flux: Changes in Religious Affiliation in the U.S., Executive Summary
• Of special interest to Protestants: Changing within Protestantism
• Major Christian Denominations
• General Commission on Christian Unity and Interreligious Concerns
• Ecumenical Meeting - The Address of Pope Benedict XVI, Aug. 15, 2005
• Catholic Church alone is one, true church, says Vatican congregation
• Primary Source: Responses on some questions regarding certain aspects of the Doctrine of the Church
• The World Council of Churches - Ecumenism is a way of life

Conversation this week looked at what ecumenism is, whether or not it is Biblical, and how to make sense of the various Christian denominations. It was noted that in some ways, there are large differences between the denominations, particularly between Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant churches. However, while there are theological differences between Protestant churches, they are typically more minor. Divisions are not exclusive to Christianity as most of the major world religions have different sects, often in (violent) conflict with one another.

Some of the denominations (such as the Catholic Church and many evangelical churches) believe that their theology is so solely correct that churches that do not share their theology cannot rightly be called the Church. For the Catholic Church, this authority includes the doctrine of Apostolic Succession. Since other denominations cannot claim this, at least in their minds, the Catholic Church is the only true Church. For evangelical churches, denominations who do not hold to their theological beliefs, including Catholics, Mormons, and "liberal" denominations like Methodists and Presbyterians, do not have the Truth. The definition of Church depends upon who is defining it.

A distinction was made between theology and worship. One cannot deny that there are theological differences between all of the Christian denominations. However, the question was raised as to whether or not an outsider would be able to tell the difference between denominations solely by attending worship services. This lack of awareness of theology even amongst Christian laity is demonstrated in the Pew Forum study, which revealed the large number of Christians who switch between denominations for reasons including better sermons, closer location, more social opportunities, and marriage. If one is not attached to a particular denomination's theology (if one is even aware of that denomination's theology), it is easier for him/her to switch denominations based upon other factors.

In addition, the argument was made that Christianity is all about the individual believer, even in the early church. This argument reflects the individualistic Western mindset wherein religion is about making the believer feel they have a relationship with God. Therefore, wherever the individual finds spiritual fulfillment, that is where they attend church, regardless of denominational affiliation.

The issue of mere Christianity was also raised. If scripture that argues for one body, one baptism, one Spirit, and full unity is correct, it would seem that denominations are contrary to the will of God. However, if one flock is understood to mean belief in Christ and adherence to Christ's teachings, then the existence of denominations may or may not be a problem. The question then becomes, is this mere Christianity, the lowest common denominator of denominations, enough? Doctrine evolved and churches split over said doctrine because humans were concerned with orthodoxy. Is it enough to believe in Christ or does there need to be agreement on who Christ is (e.g. Trinitarians vs. Unitarians)? Are there any creeds that all Christians can agree to?

What then is the place for ecumenical dialogue? Pope Benedict XVI's speech raises the point that in times of great ethical and moral quandaries, it is expected that the Christian community will answer in one voice. If we are to provide that answer, we must work together. Many, including the Pope, would still leave issues of theology to the theologians, focusing instead on practice. However, what is Christianity without theology?

Questions for further consideration:
- Is a united Church even possible in light of the nature of humanity?
- Is Christianity really an individualistic religion? Did the early church really focus more upon the individual than the community?
- Does mere Christianity focus more upon belief in Jesus or adherence to Jesus' teachings (or both)?
- Where would you draw the line between "Christian" and "Non-Christian"?