Many Christian councils, including the World Council of Churches, limit membership to churches that affirm belief in the Trinity and understand Jesus Christ within that framework. While this reflects long-standing doctrinal traditions, such restrictions unintentionally make genuine Christian unity difficult. Beliefs naturally vary across cultures, histories, and theological traditions, and unity built primarily on shared doctrines will always remain fragile.
A more inclusive and durable foundation for unity might be found elsewhere: in a shared commitment to the teachings of Jesus. This could serve as common ground for Christians across denominations and theological differences.
Jesus himself did not ask people to subscribe to a set of doctrines. He invited them to follow him, to live by his teachings—loving God and neighbour, forgiving others, seeking justice, showing mercy, and trusting God as Father. These teachings are found clearly and directly in the Gospels and are accessible to all who call themselves Christian.
If Christian unity is to move beyond institutional agreements and theological statements, perhaps it must return to this simpler and deeper basis: a willingness to live according to the way of Jesus. Such an approach would not erase doctrinal differences, but it could allow Christians to walk together despite them—united not by identical beliefs, but by a shared way of life.
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