Ecumenism
Article by Kenneth Malenge Unity of the Church: Truth as the Necessary Ground of Biblical Unity Introduction and Thesis The unity of the church is a central concern in ecclesiology, particularly in contemporary discussions shaped by ecumenical movements. These movements often prioritize visible and institutional unity while minimizing doctrinal distinctions. This raises a critical theological question: Does Scripture mandate unity irrespective of doctrinal differences, or is true unity necessarily grounded in shared truth? Thesis: While Scripture commands the unity of the church, it consistently defines that unity as inseparable from doctrinal truth; therefore, any model of unity that relativizes or suspends doctrinal fidelity—particularly regarding the gospel—constitutes a theological distortion rather than a biblical fulfillment of unity. This study argues that the ecumenical model of unity rests on a reductionist hermeneutic, an inadequate doctrine of truth, and a weakened co...