UNDERSTANDING OUR CHRISTIAN NEIGHBORS

In our multicultural society, much has been made (rightly) of understanding our non-Christian neighbors. As a result of such focus, and perhaps also for the sake of greater Christian unity, we often fail to understand and appreciate the real differences that exist among those who call on Jesus Christ as Lord, and our Christian unity may be superficial or short-lived.

Why are there so many different Christian denominations, what makes them distinct, and what can these different groups learn from one another? What are the big ideas that divide churches, and what do the various churches hold in common? In this situation of division, what does it mean to confess that the church is “one” and “catholic”? How do Christians work toward unity, and what role do our “distinctions” play in ecumenical conversation? In what ways can the various Christian traditions “partner” with one another (e.g., with regard to moral and/or theological questions)?

The Center for Christian Studies will be offering a seven-week class on “Understanding Our Christian Neighbors,” led by Keith Stanglin, director of CCS, and with a special guest lecture by Carl Trueman on February 19th. The class will address the major doctrines of Eastern Orthodoxy, Roman Catholicism, Mainline Protestantism, and Protestant Evangelicalism. Differences and points of unity will be explored. The goal of the class is increased mutual understanding of the diversity and unity of the church.

Discounted rates available for Journal of Christian Studies and First Things subscriber households. Click on the "View more price options" link below for discounted rates. Before registering for the class, subscribe to JCS here for your discount, and First Things here. Additional discount: Zoom groups of 10 or more joining on one device are $50/person.

Click "View more price options" link below for discounted rates.

Schedule (Monday evenings, Jan. 8–Feb. 19, 7:00–8:30 CST):

Week 1: Historical Unity and Diversity, Understanding and Assessing

Week 2: Major Christian Divisions

Week 3: Religious Authority

Week 4: God and Christ

Week 5: Human Nature and Salvation

Week 6: Church

Week 7: Theological and Practical Ecumenism (guest lecturer: Carl Trueman)

RSVP confirmation email will have a link to the readings for this course as well as the Zoom link for attending.