The End of Protestantism: Pursuing Unity in a Fragmented Church

Leithart (Gratitude), president of the Theopolis Institute and adjunct senior fellow at New St. Andrews College, writes of a utopian future when church denominations are no more and Christians are united in truth the way God planned from the beginning—before sin got in the way. Christ is the way to reconciliation for the church, which has been fragmented throughout its history, he asserts. Unity of the original church gave way to Protestant alternatives and now, in Leithart’s eyes, the church seems to be moving back toward unity. Leithart argues that if the entire church embraces the scriptures, theological differences can be eliminated and denominations, which grow around economic and social divisions such as race, won’t be needed. This perfect church of the future, toward which Leithart passionately hopes Christians are moving, looks something like what they already have: it will hold services in a building with stained glass, offer communion at every service, and show a united face of love and concern to its community. Its pastors (Leithart isn’t clear whether women will be among them) will counsel and correct the congregation’s members according to biblical standards and preach the Bible, including conservative stands on abortion and sexual behavior. This interesting thought-exercise will be perfect for readers considering their place within the ecosystem of modern Christianity. (Nov.)