From the book, “What People Ask About The Church,” by Dale A. Robbins — 52 — The idea of ecumenicalism is associated with unity and universality.
The word, ecumenical, (Greek, OIKOUMENE) is used 15 times in the New Testament as a
reference to the "whole world," primarily in a geographical sense, as in Matthew
24:14. In the post-apostolic times, various branches of the church
associated with the term ecumenical in the corporate sense. The Eastern church had its
ecumenical synods and theologians. The Roman church called its councils ecumenical. The
creeds of the Apostles, Nicene, Athanasian and others were called ecumenical. Today, various churches are associated with the modern ecumenical
movement, primarily though affiliation with the World Council of Churches. This is a
theologically liberal, leftist organization devoted to the world unification of churches
and religious entities. Most theologically conservative, evangelical churches reject any
association with the ecumenical movement or the World Council of Churches, as these groups
are identified with compromised, pseudo-Christian philosophy, and the goal of forming a
one world religion. Authorities on the subject of prophecy cite that the Antichrist will
arise amid a reprobate, one world religion. A spirit of unity between all Christian churches, across denominational boundaries, is a noble ambition that should be pursued. The body of Christ needs to be united in their love, their prayers, and their evangelistic efforts to the world. But not at the compromise of basic Christian ideals, as is embraced by modern ecumenicalism. This article is copyrighted © by Dale A. Robbins, 1995, and is a publication of Victorious Publications, Grass Valley, CA 95949. Unless otherwise stated, all scripture references were taken from The New King James Bible, © Thomas Nelson Inc., 1982.You may download for personal use as long as you retain credit to the author. Obtain permission before reproducing copies for any reason, by filling out our simple permission form. For media reproduction rights, or to obtain published quantities of this title, . |
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