Christian church Quote by Timothy Keller
““While we must continue to align ourselves in denominations that share our theological distinctives, at the local level our bias should be in the direction of cooperation with other congregations. Because of this belief, Redeemer Presbyterian Church has for a number of years given money and resources to churches of other denominations that are planting churches. We have helped to start Pentecostal churches, Baptist churches, and Anglican churches, as well as Presbyterian churches. For our efforts we have received sharp criticism and a lot of amazed stares. We believe this is one clear way to practice the kind of catholicity that turns a city of balkanized Christian churches and denominations into a movement.””
About This Quote
Ecumenical cooperation encourages churches of different denominations to collaborate, fostering unity despite doctrinal differences, though it may attract criticism.
In simple terms: Working together across faith groups builds unity.
Key Takeaway
Promote partnership despite differences.
Themes
unity
cooperation
ecumenism
Mood
hopeful
reflective
Type
theological
motivational
When to use this quote
- church planting
- local ministry
- interfaith events
Key Concepts
interdenominational dialogue
shared resources
community building
Questions to Reflect On
- What benefits arise from shared worship?
- How can criticism be constructively addressed?
A Different Perspective
Some view collaboration as compromising beliefs.
![“A church that truly understands the implications of the biblical gospel, letting the “word of Christ dwell in [it] richly” (Col 3:16), will look like an unusual hybrid of various church forms and stereotypes. Because of the inside-out, substitutionary atonement aspect, the church will place great…” quote by Timothy Keller](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/4ed/timothy-keller-240_christianity_a-church-that-truly-understands-the-impl_2580719.jpg)
![“24 A few pages later, Delbanco writes the following: [Alexis de] Tocqueville’s detection of a “strange melancholy in the midst of abundance” has a special salience today — because while we have gotten very good at deconstructing old stories (the religion that was the subject of my first chapter…” quote by Timothy Keller](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/85a/timothy-keller-240_sad_24-a-few-pages-later-delbanco-writes-the_25320.jpg)
