emerging cGgc
"Whoever is not against us is for us."
Next Sunday I'm going to be speaking on Mark 9:38-50, and I'm struck by Jesus' open attitude toward His disciples outside the Twelve. I'd like to see a discussion on the implications of His statement for current ecumenical dialogue today.
My immediate observation is that John displays sectarian exclusivism (similar to those who might say theirs is the only "true" church) when he rebukes the exorcist. How do we do that today?
My next observation is that Jesus clearly embraces those who explicitly embrace Him, even if -- in our eyes -- they're not "one of us." (The fact that the exorcist was casting out demons in Jesus' name rules out the idea of an "anonymous Christian," to use Karl Rahner's term.) What are the limits to ecumenism here?
What do you think? (Make sure to respond with helpful anecdotes before Sunday!)
Blessings!
Ben
posted by Ben Tobias at 3:06 PM
2 Comments:
"He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters. -- Matthew 12:30
Not phrased exactly the same, but maybe boundries the other side.
A personal incident came to mind when I read your post. I was studying at the University of Grenoble and thought I would attend a student group. I was surprised at my reception by this group. But I was more surprised when I mentioned it to some of my colleagues in ministry.
"You went to that meeting. What did they think?"
"They were surprised to see me."
"Well, I guess they were. We don't meet together."
I had started my own ecumenical movement accidently.
Post a Comment
<< Home