How Christian denominations view each other

• Why is the issue of authority a reason for division in the Church?

  - one leader?

  - equal leaders?

  - scripture as a source of authority?
• What are the different views in traditions and practices?

  Baptists believe in adult baptism and Roman Catholics baptise babies
• What are the different views in Church governance and organisation?

  Local congregations or central governance
• How is apostolic succession relevant?

  Catholics believe in apostolic succession which passes authority to the Pope and bishops. But Protestants disagree with this as they believe that scripture is more important and that humans should not judge or interpret scripture
• Why are Catholics exclusivists?

  Continuity is expressed by core beliefs and rituals such as baptism and holy communion. This is an exclusivist view because they believe that only Christians can seek the grace of God through baptism
• What does the Catholic Church view other churches as?

  Separated brethren
• What do Protestants believe about the authority of the church?

  Priesthood of all believers - any Christian can have a relationship with God. Salvation can only come through God's grace
• How do Protestants measure other Churches?

  Through their faithfulness to scripture and how they view central authority
• Do the Church of England have an inclusivist view?

  Yes, they officially recognise other churches even when they have different practices and doctrines. They respect and work with other Churches, even those with different views eg the Church of England ordain women but other churches do not
• What is ecumenism?


  The efforts to reunite all Christians on earth and to cooperate among Christian faith traditions in achieving common goals.
• What is an example of ecumenism?

  The World Council of Churches