MembersUnity in Messiah, How?

 Particularly since the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), the ecumenical movement endeavors to achieve universal unity among churches and denominations. Ecumenism also promotes worldwide unity among religions through cooperation. In reality, however, most Christians/Messianics remain divided as they are unable to bridge over genuine differences concerning biblical interpretation. Substantial divisions regarding doctrine and creed continue to fuel separations, and even result in feuds and exclusions.

A dmirers of the Christian/Messianic ideal of ecclesial unity often quote New Testament verses, such as: “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called in one hope of your calling” (Ephesians 4:4), and: “we, being many, are one body in Messiah” (Romans 12:5). Therefore, the motto of unity is used as a tool to organize structural bodies subject to constitutions and administrative officials. Yet, the Apostle Paul wrote that “there must also be factions (or sects) among you, that those who are approved may be recognized among you” (1 Corinthians 11:19). This demonstrates that large organizations are dependent upon mundane machinery, and tend to become political establishments. Sooner or later, hierarchical...