New Paradigm for Unity

a practical mission model

Daniel Keeran, MSW

New Paradigm for Unity

a practical mission model
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By Daniel Keeran, MSW
Victoria, BC, Canada
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Divisions among different self-identified Christian groups have been common from the
beginning. Jesus prayed for unity among those who believe. Generally speaking, no two
followers agree on what God wants people to believe and do. In the parable of the
weeds in Matthew 13:29, Jesus says we should not remove the weeds or false members
of the kingdom.
New steps for inclusiveness are outlined in this report as a foundation for opportunities
in local churches and communities. Fundamental to the new inclusive movement are
principles and a change in paradigm that give a fresh approach to the ancient problem
of divisions among people who identify themselves as followers of Jesus. Could humility
be the key to unity?
PRINCIPLES OF UNITY
The first principle of the new movement is that no one alive today is inspired or has a
direct channel from God to speak or reveal divine truth that can be known in scripture.
The second principle is to extend trust to others, believing most people sincerely want
to believe and do what is right and true even when they are influenced unwittingly by
childhood experiences and the need for identity.
The third principle is that acceptance can best be achieved within a framework of
respectful conversation in which all views are enthusiastically welcomed and in which

disagreement is expected. Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another (Proverbs
27:17).
The fourth principle, and the new paradigm, is that acceptance must be based upon
mutual understanding rather than agreement.
We can be together in community when we accept the above principles and are
committed to understanding others points of view even if we remain in disagreement
on specific teachings.
THREE KINDS OF UNITY
1. Unity divinely given by being baptized by one Spirit into one body.
2. Unity from being in agreement with revealed truth.
3. Unity from mutual understanding, accepting the sincerity of others within the
framework of respectful discussion.
NEW PARADIGM FOR UNITY
This new paradigm is community with the shared value and goal of mutual
understanding rather than agreement with specific teachings beyond the following
fundamental beliefs: the Bible is inspired by God; Jesus is the Christ the Son of God;
Jesus died for the sins of the world; and Jesus rose bodily from the dead.
BENEFITS OF THE PROCESS
The process of working toward inclusive community is a worthwhile end in itself
because of the following benefits:
1. Bringing people together from different denominations.
2. Stimulating in-depth scripture study.
3. Encouraging respectful conversation in all relationships.
4. Fostering acceptance of the sincerity of others in their spiritual journey.
5. Attracting others to the Christian message, who may not yet identify as Christians.
6. Providing personal physical interaction as a balance to internet social media.

THE FORMAT
The process is a grass-roots movement in local churches and meeting places in which a
speaker is invited from each identified faith perspective or denomination. The
presentation or lesson may be to outline the special contribution(s) of his or her faith
group.
The presentation is then followed by small group discussions in which participants are
encouraged to express agreement or disagreement, with Scripture to support their
views as much as possible.
A trained moderator in each small group facilitates discussion, reminds members of
discussion guidelines as needed, and maintains safety and respect within the small
group.
Discussion Guidelines:
1. No dominating. Keep comments brief. Over-talking can be interpreted as aggression
or a need to control and dominate.
2. No name-calling, negative innuendo, sarcastic put-downs or threats of any kind.
3. Before responding to passionate views, try sincerely reflecting others views with
whom you disagree.
4. Keep your voice volume normal and avoid shouting, yelling, pointing, or pounding
your fist.
5. Ask others what they are saying rather than tell them what they are saying. Dont put
words in others mouths.
6. Avoid directing anger toward others, especially those with whom you disagree.
The author can be reached at collegemhc@gmail.com
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For a critique of this paper go here.