Christian identity and church unity

C F.C Coetzee

doi:10.4102/ids.v40i1.337

Abstract

After centuries of Christianity the theme of “Christian identity” is still relevant and even more diverse than ever before. In this article this theme is discussed from a Reformed perspective with the focus on a specific ecclesiological facet, that is, the viewpoint of church unity. Christian identity has to do with faith in Christ and a specific view of Scripture – a point of departure as manifested in confessional unity. In accordance with this viewpoint the issue of church unity cannot be discussed without taking into account one’s presuppositions as found in Scripture and the Reformed Confessions. In order to fulfil our calling as churches in obedience to the “last will” of our Lord (John 17), the Confessions should function as the living belief of the churches, and we should strive and pray untiringly for the unity of the church.

Highlights

It is significant that after centuries of Christianity, as well as considerable research and discussion on the issue of Christian identity, this theme is still relevant today
The theme of Christian identity can be discussed from many angles, but it has many facets.2. It is the aim of this article to look at Christian identity from a Reformed perspective, and to focus on a specific ecclesiological facet, namely that of church unity
Christian identity as seen and qualified from a Reformed perspective is manifested in confessional unity

Summary

Introduction

It is significant that after centuries of Christianity, as well as considerable research and discussion on the issue of Christian identity, this theme is still relevant today. Naude (2003a:437) states that it seems to be a typical Reformed feature to constantly ask questions concerning identity. Has the interest in this theme continued because the final word has not been spoken? Could this kind of questions be ascribed to Christianity experiencing an identity crisis? The theme of Christian identity can be discussed from many angles, but it has many facets.2 It is the aim of this article to look at Christian identity from a Reformed perspective, and to focus on a specific ecclesiological facet, namely that of church unity.

Defining Christian identity

The unity of the church

Identity and unity

Concluding remarks