Ground of Locality and Generality

[OBW]

Originally Posted by Freedom

The subject of oneness is a tricky issue, and I think that you have a good point here. Divergence in opinions/doctrines is something that divides, that is a given.

You are correct that doctrines divide. Yet among many, the level of division is only in the manner in which we meet for purposes of worship, learning, etc. For many, those differences become of little importance when it comes to the job of living the Christian life, doing justice, being bearers of God's image and light.

I think that our time in the LCM/LC has caused us to be so focused on the things that we do not agree on such that we tend to only see that and ignore the things that unite. With some exceptions, Christianity very often debates the differences, but looks past them when it comes to recognizing the body of Christ. For the LCM, it was mostly the opposite. There is only a minor capitulation that allowed anyone not "practically on the ground" the status of being a part of the body of Christ.

It is almost like saying everyone is Christian, but when it comes to doling out the superlatives, like "saint," they presume to speak only of themselves. I think that those "poor" ones in Christianity are far more righteous in this matter and truly recognize the body of Christ.