"By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
Next week, on February 11th, I'm going to be part of a panel discussing "denominationalism" at SPU. You're welcome to come out if this topic interests you. Directions and details are found HERE.
Check out these questions. It should be an interesting conversation. The panel will include some diverse perspectives (It includes a Greek-Orthodox Priest, a Roman Catholic, and others...)
(1) What is Christian unity to you? Is unity among churches necessary? Is denominationalism a hindrance to the universal church?
(2) What is a significant obstacle that denominationalism presents in our world today?
(3) What charism does your church tradition bring to the overall body of believers?
(4) How would you react to the following situations?
There are three Christian churches on the same street as the church you pastor. Would you celebrate the growth or decline of the church next door even if the church tradition is different from your own?
A new member approaches you after a Sunday service and tells you they just had a bitter end with another local congregation of a different denomination and love attending your church. Is it a good thing that they like your church or would you recommend they reconcile the relationship with their former church?
(5) How far does Christianity stretch? What does your church tradition consider to be beliefs and practices of a good Christian?
(6) What is the state of the Christian Church today?
I like the fact that Eastside (where I am a Pastor) is dedicated to "Interdenominational, worldwide evangelism". This is a pretty inclusive position. I have met many churches that were very exclusive (labelling all other expressions of Christianity as being "cults").
What do you think? Are we more divided than we realize? What part do we have in the problem?
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