Christian Unity and Ecumenism Essay -- Ecumenicalism, Ecumenical Movem

The ideal of unity seems to be of great importance in the religious world, but rarely is it ever achieved among professed Christians. However, it is vitally important to comprehend unity in its Biblical light. Jesus prayed in John 17:21, â€Å"That they all may be one, as thou, Father art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.† By definition, unity is the state of being one. In order to have a unified church every member must be one one with the Father and the Son. Subsequently, to achieve such an oneness, each member must be perfectly holy, because God is holy. Unfortunately, this is where a clear contrast is made between the saints and mere religious professors. Religious professors practice ecumenism at the cost of disregarding God's word. Religion will sacrifice the doctrine of Christ in order to achieve an outward union. Religion will make allowances for sin, worldliness, heresies, and other spirits of ungodliness in order to gain a universal, all inclusive church. Ecumenism is the spirit of the age and its origins can be traced to the pits of hell, the promoter of Babylon. Ecumenical spirits influence various religions to lay aside theological differences, and accept and tolerate diverse beliefs coming together and forming ecclesiastical bonds. Historically, Catholics and Protestants fought each other, and not only through verbal exchange, but through physical means as well. World and religious leaders today advocate accepting all faiths and tolerance of differing viewpoints. For the most part they reflect the ideals of the general consensus. Popular opinion suggests that there are various paths to God, and it is narrow minded to believe there is only on... ...ls short of it will be eternally lost. The message of the Church of God is â€Å"come out of her my people and be not a partaker of her (Babylon) sins.† Come out of all false religion, even if it be under the guise Church of God. Renounce sects, denominations, and systems of men! Forsake ecumenism for it is the promotion of Satan and is available at a bargain rate at almost every religious grocer's market, but at the price of eternal damnation. It costs nothing to obtain the approval of religious establishments, but will cost man his soul because it does not obtain the approval of God. Ecumenism is of the flesh and has deceived and will continue to deceive multitudes. There is only one kind of unity that meets the approval of heaven and the criteria of God's word, and it is the unity of the spirit. May fellowship first begin with God, and with his Son Jesus Christ.