UNITY WITHOUT UNIFORMITY
My conclusion from studying the early Christian writings is that there was a core set of beliefs and practices that were handed down from the apostles. The early Christians accepted such beliefs and practices almost universally. At the same time, there were obviously many things that the apostles never explained to the church in general – nor perhaps to anyone. In those areas, there was considerable diversity of thought among the early Christians. Yet, they did not separate into a plethora of sects over such issues. In fact, there wasn’t even much bickering about these matters. For example, Justin Martyr believed that many Bible prophecies would be literally fulfilled during the Millennium. But many other early Christians believed differently. notice the amicable spirit Justin expressed when discussing his millennial views with a group of Jews: “As I mentioned before, I and many others are of this opinion, and believe that such prophecies will take place in this manner. But, on…
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