Ecumenism Vs. Sound Doctrine

The term "ecumenical" was derived from the Greek “oikumene”. The original meaning was “the entire inhabited world”. At the dawn of the 20th century, though, it was assigned a new meaning. “Ecumenical” (and its’ derivative, “ecumenism”) came to mean a process of reconciliation between all branches of the Christian faith. More recently, it has been applied to relationships / negotiations betwee
Christian and non-Christian faiths. Early in the process, a slogan was adopted by some participants, “Service unites but doctrine divides.”

Is this slogan true? Does doctrine actually matter? If so, just how important is doctrine? Should we abandon doctrines on which other peoples “of faith” don’t agree?

What is Doctrine?

Doctrine is accurate teaching – in simplest terms, you could say “Spiritual Doctrine is absolute truth about a spiritual concept.” Even if we can agree on the definition, though, we may not agree what constitutes sound doctrine.

John 18:38a (KJV) reports that Pontius Pilate asked this question during the trial of the Lord Jesus: “Pilate saith unto him, What is truth?” We should note that Pilate was not in search of truth. He was attempting to dismiss a topic that he didn’t want to face. That technique is still used today – hence the above mentioned slogan (about service / doctrine)!

The Apostle Paul wrote:

“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.” - 2 Timothy 4:3-4 NKJV

What REALLY Matters?

The thrust of Paul’s teaching is that sound doctrine is crucial. Paul showed no doubt how to recognize sound doctrine. He did not advocate consulting with an ecumenical council. He didn’t suggest that the church take a vote on doctrine. He left no room for “Political Correctness”. Paul’s directive was clear:

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” - 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NKJV

“Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus...” - Romans 16:17-18a NKJV

So, Ecumenism or Sound Doctrine? What did Jesus say?

In Mark 9:38-41, the Lord Jesus rejected sectarianism, stating in verse 40, “he who is not against us is on our side.” At no time though, did the Lord compromise doctrine. You and I would be well advised to scrupulously obey sound doctrine, as defined in scripture. So, we should work with each other as best we can while being sure to hold to sound doctrine.