If trends are any indicator of how the faith is shaping for the coming generations, then the topics of reconciliation and ecumenical movements will continue to be at the forefront for some time to come. Perhaps this is a reflection of the time as post-modernity and globalization increase awareness and an ideology of tolerance, but perhaps too God is at work renewing and redeeming his bride. The rifts are deep and the pain is real and regardless of the reasons this movement demands the attention of all those that take the call of following Jesus seriously.

The Past as a Vehicle to Our Future…

By studying the history and nature of church divisions, and what continues to keep the church apart, a realistic understanding of what reconciliation is, and what it will take to see it happen can be engaged. God is not a God of pseudo-unity; he is calling forth real love, real redemption, and real life. As such we must take the time to enter into the historical story of the church and the real issues that keep us apart.