Unity Amongst Denominations 

From Lutherans to Baptists to Catholics, the world of Christian denominations can seem terribly dizzying.

Not only that, they can also appear quite divisive - pushing followers of Jesus into different camps pitted against one another.

I know this criticism well because I once held it myself.

And while it’s true that denominations can cause division, I’d argue that, with the right perspective, they can be a beautiful force for unity, too.

“Let all be fully convinced in their own minds.”

In Romans 14v10, Paul wrote to the diverse congregation in the imperial capital, saying:

There was debate going on amongst the diverse Roman church. Arguments over what food was right to eat or whether or not Jewish festivals still had to be observed. 

Paul directs them back to God, reminding them that the lordship of Jesus, which they presumably all believed, was the most important thing.

For matters beyond, important as they may be, Paul advises patience, understanding, and peace.

Jesus is Lord

We’d do well to remember two things.

The first:

All major denominations acknowledge Jesus as Lord, building their lives around His divine teachings and person.

And the second:

There are many different interpretations of what that looks like in practice. Still, if the Gospel remains, unity can be found.

Of course, plenty of nuance is necessary here. After all…

…there’s a good reason Catholics believe the bread and wine are literally the body and blood of Jesus.

…there’s also a good reason Baptists believe valid baptism is an individual’s freely made decision.

How many of us attempt to learn why that is? To sit down with someone from a different denomination and learn to see a person, not a collection of doctrines.

What if we lived in a Church that accepted that God is mysterious and that we’ll never know everything?

What if we were teachable instead of defensive? Committed to our interpretation but open to hearing others?

What if denominations were able to maintain love despite their differences?

What would that say to a world that often mocks the Church for all its many branches?

What kind of witness could we give if we showed that the proclamation of Jesus Christ as Lord is enough to enable us to “bear with one another” as Paul wrote?

At the end of the day, it was through personal, relational encounters that Jesus did (and still does) His best work.

By His grace, may we do the same.

For now, be blessed.

Jon,

Theophilus Newsletter