The term “ecumenical” generally refers to efforts aimed at promoting unity among different Christian denominations. While it is not explicitly defined in the Bible, the concept aligns with biblical teachings on unity in the body of Christ, as illustrated in passages like Ephesians 4:4-6, which emphasizes the oneness of believers.
Scripture
20 “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word,
21 that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.
22 The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one,
23 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.
Ecumenical Meaning in the Bible
The broader meaning of the term “ecumenical” in the context of the Bible incorporates the call for unity among followers of Christ, transcending denominational divides and emphasizing a collective identity within the body of Christ. Ephesians 4:4-6 powerfully encapsulates this theme, stating, “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” This passage highlights the core belief that despite various interpretations, practices, and traditions within Christianity, all believers share a fundamental unity through their faith in Jesus Christ. This unity is not meant to erase individual identities or theological distinctions but to promote mutual love, respect, and understanding among different faith communities.
Moreover, the ecumenical movement can also be understood through Christ’s prayer in John 17:20-21, where He prays, “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” Here, the plea for unity is linked to the Church’s witness to the world, suggesting that a divided Church undermines its mission to spread the Gospel. The ecumenical pursuit, therefore, aims not only for harmony among Christians but also functions as a testimony to the unifying power of Christ in a fragmented world, inviting individuals of all backgrounds to witness a tangible expression of God’s love and grace.
Building upon the themes of unity and collective identity, the concept of ecumenicalism can also be seen in the biblical call for collaboration and reconciliation among diverse groups of believers. In the New Testament, we witness the early Church grappling with issues of ethnic and cultural divisions, notably between Jews and Gentiles. Passages that address such transitions, like Acts 15, showcase the Church’s efforts to resolve disputes and establish a shared understanding of faith, which paved the way for broader inclusivity. This encounter illustrates that the pursuit of ecumenical dialogue is not a modern invention but rather rooted in Scripture, where the apostles sought to harmonize differing practices and beliefs while affirming the central tenets of the Gospel.
Another dimension of ecumenical thought emerges from the role of love as foundational in fostering unity among believers. In writings attributed to the Apostle John, particularly 1 John 4:7-12, the essence of love is articulated as the driving force behind true communion among followers of Christ. The text encourages believers to understand that love embodies the very nature of God, asserting that loving one another is a direct reflection of one’s relationship with the divine. This theological underpinning suggests that ecumenism is not merely an organizational effort but a spiritual imperative rooted in the essence of Christian faith—inviting believers to engage in sincere relationships and to support one another across denominational lines. By embodying Christ’s love, believers can progress toward a more ecumenical community, honoring the diversity of the body of Christ while working together for the purpose of mission and discipleship.
Unity Among Believers
The term “ecumenical” in the biblical context emphasizes the importance of unity among all followers of Christ, transcending denominational boundaries. This unity is rooted in the belief that all believers are part of one body, the Church, which is called to reflect the love and teachings of Jesus. The ecumenical movement seeks to foster dialogue and collaboration among different Christian traditions, promoting a shared mission of spreading the Gospel and serving humanity.
Inclusivity of the Gospel
Another broader meaning of ecumenical in the Bible relates to the inclusivity of the Gospel message. The teachings of Jesus and the early Church highlight that salvation is available to all people, regardless of their background, ethnicity, or social status. This inclusivity calls for a recognition of the diverse expressions of faith within Christianity and encourages believers to embrace one another as part of the larger family of God.
Commitment to Peace and Reconciliation
The ecumenical spirit also embodies a commitment to peace and reconciliation among different Christian communities and beyond. The biblical narrative often emphasizes the call to be peacemakers and to seek reconciliation, reflecting God’s desire for harmony among His creation. This aspect of ecumenism encourages believers to work together to address social injustices, promote understanding, and build bridges between communities, fostering a spirit of cooperation and love.
How to Foster Unity and Cooperation in Faith
Fostering unity and cooperation in faith is a beautiful journey that begins with the heart. As we strive to embody Christ’s love, it’s essential to remember that we are all part of one body, each with unique gifts and perspectives. Start by actively listening to others in your community; this not only shows respect but also opens the door to understanding and empathy. Engage in prayer together, as it aligns our spirits and reminds us of our shared purpose. Look for opportunities to serve alongside one another, whether through community outreach or church activities, as these experiences can deepen bonds and create a sense of belonging. Remember, unity doesn’t mean uniformity; it’s about celebrating our differences while focusing on our common goal of glorifying God. Let’s commit to being peacemakers, extending grace, and encouraging one another, for in doing so, we reflect the heart of Christ and build a stronger, more vibrant community of faith.
Bible References to Ecumenical Meaning:
Ephesians 4:1-6: I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called,
2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love,
3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call—
5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism
6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
1 Corinthians 1:10-13: 10 I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment.
11 For it has been reported to me by Chloe’s people that there is quarreling among you, my brothers.
12 What I mean is that each one of you says, “I follow Paul,” or “I follow Apollos,” or “I follow Cephas,” or “I follow Christ.”
13 Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?
Romans 12:4-5: 4 For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function,
5 so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.
Philippians 2:1-4: 1 So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy,
2 complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.
3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.
4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Colossians 3:12-15: 12 Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,
13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.
14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.
15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful.
1 Peter 3:8-12: 8 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.
9 Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.
10 For “Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit;
11 let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it.
For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer.
Galatians 3:26-28: 26 for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith.
27 For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
Acts 2:42-47: 42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.
43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles.
44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common.
45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.
46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts,
47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.
John 13:34-35: 34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.
35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.
Romans 15:5-7: 5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus,
6 that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
7 Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.
1 Corinthians 12:12-27: 12 For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.
13 For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.
14 For the body does not consist of one member but of many.
15 If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body.
16 and if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body.
17 If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell?
18 But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose.
19 If all were a single member, where would the body be?
20 As it is, there are many parts, yet one body.
21 The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.”
22 On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable,
23 and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty,
24 which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it,
25 that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another.
26 If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.
27 Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.
Ephesians 2:14-18: 14 For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility
15 by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace,
16 and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility.
17 And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near.
18 For through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father.
Psalm 133:1-3: 1 Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!
2 It is like the precious oil on the head, running down on the beard, on the beard of Aaron, running down on the collar of his robes!
3 It is like the dew of Hermon, which falls on the mountains of Zion! For there the Lord has commanded the blessing, life forevermore.
Matthew 18:19-20: 19 Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven.
20 For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”
Rev. François Dupont is a dedicated church minister with a wealth of experience in serving spiritual communities. With a calm and serene demeanor, he has been devoted to sharing the message of love, compassion, and tolerance for over two decades. Through his thoughtful sermons, compassionate counseling, and unwavering support, Rev. Dupont has touched the lives of countless individuals, allowing them to find solace and strength during difficult times. His serene presence and deep understanding of the human condition make him a trusted guide for those seeking spiritual nourishment and guidance.