The evils of "sectarian Christianity" are apparent to all thinking people, and have been denounced by various spokesmen of the leading sects repeatedly. This general recognition of error has given impulse to many "unity" movements, and much so-called "non-sectarian" preaching.
But IS union of all churches the desirable goal? May we correctly assume that such a union equals true Christianity? Is it not possible, or highly probable, that in the compromising process union with one another would take the place of unity in Christ?
After reading several proposals for religious "unity", I have concluded that man's plan goes something like this:
ITEM ONE:
Hold to no external authority, but allow everyone to "find truth", according to his own conscience.
ITEM TWO:
Avoid the inevitable conclusion created by Item One by adopting a concept of "religious freedom", large enough to embrace all in one great "brotherhood".
ITEM THREE:
Disfellowship and hold in contempt anyone who uses the freedom of Item One to point out the fallacy of the false "brotherhood" in Item Two.
Perhaps I have been a bit harsh on our modern "Unitarians", but I believe [that] this depicts the net results: We are seeking Christianity, without accepting the authority of Christ. THERE IS NO SUCH THING.
The grand theme of Christianity is Christ: Prophet, Priest, and King. He is our teacher, our advocate, and our ruler. How absurd to acknowledge all this - as most "unity" speakers do - and then give so little attention to the actual teachings of Christ.
Instead of discouraging "doctrinal" studies, true undenominational Christianity is built upon such studies. "If a man love Me, he will keep My words" (John 14:23).
"The people were astonished at His doctrine; for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes." (Matthew 7:28-29).
The New Testament church was ONE, because it was made up of people who "continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine ... ". Their fellowship was first of all with God, and it was maintained by walking in His truth (I John 1:3-7).
When division threatened, the solution was "God, and the word of His grace" (Acts 20:29~32). Man has found no better solution today.
Undenominational Christianity, and - in reality - there is no other kind of true Christianity, is the fruit of subjection to Christ's will. It brings war against evil; division between those who do and do not [follow Christ's will]; and world hostility (Ephesians 6:10-f; Luke 12:51-f; IJohn 2:15-f).
However, it offers the only peace [that is] worthwhile: peace with God, in Heaven (Revelation 22).
--Robert F. Turner; Plain Talk (Burnet, TX) Vol. 1, p. 4, May 1964 Words Fitly Spoken
