The unity of the Body of Christ is NOT ecumenical in nature--it is ORGANIC; therefore #7 in our 10-Part series on the Oneness of the Body of Christ is entitled: ECUMENISM:
ORGANIZED UNITY VERSUS ORGANIC UNITY. We realize that many noble attempts by Christians to somehow express their Oneness they have in Christ through various "ecumenical endeavors" has, for the most part, been a failure--we are still grossly divided along so many levels. This video will show us a most living, organic way out of the morass of our confusion and division. It's a little longer than most--but well worth the view and audio--thank you all for listening in on this 10-Part Series. God bless---HENRY & DOUG
Please CLICK HERE to view/listen to the presentation in video format - 8.57 min.
Please READ the text below.
Ecumenical movements have sought unity among Christian churches: Catholic, Orthodox, Reformed, Evangelical, Pentecostal, and others. Specifically, they are initiated by leadership from various churches to promote peaceful co-existence and cooperation between church organizations. These kinds of movements, and the inspiration behind them, have spawned Pastoral Associations, as well as Christian unity events for prayer, gospel, and worship services. These types of efforts certainly can be commendable; however, they are outside the purview of the New Testament, since the apostles didn’t espouse setting up various church groups and organizations.
What is organic unity? Let’s highlight just a couple verses highlighting this:
We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren (1 John 3:14).
With all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Eph. 4:2).
Organic is defined as something of life. The oneness or unity among all believers is due to a new life, a new birth. When we were born anew with the life of Christ, the nature (DNA) of that life is sourced in love. We spontaneously and automatically love all those who are also born of the same life of Christ—no matter the race or how different we are from each other.
This is the unity of the Spirit implanted in every single believer at the time of life, the regenerating life of Christ. Believers do not need to learn this oneness or need any program or organization to achieve it. We just need to keep what we were born with. This is organic unity—”that which is born of the spirit is Spirit”! (John 3).
Organic unity does not need to wait for any leadership or events for it to happen. Each believer is responsible and has the life ability to reach out to others around them. Fellowship with those outside your church (comfort zone). Invite other believers over for a pot-luck meal/fellowship. You’re not trying to start another “house church,” no, but just because we are in the same Body, let’s enjoy the unity of the Lord’s ekklesia we already have!