I visited an Episcopalian church yesterday for the first time. Our interest was more in the magnificent building than in the tradition. Grace Cathedral church in San Francisco is beautiful and stunning-- certainly worth a visit from anyone.
One thing I wasn't prepared for was their mission statement: (as seen on their webpage)
Also known by different names in different traditions? Umm no. There is ONE name, the Bible is very clear about that. The church boasted in its openness so much that I think it robs God of the glory and dignity actually due His Name. Romans 3 tells us:
19Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God. 20Therefore no one will be declared righteous in his sight by observing the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of sin. 21But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. 22This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, 23for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus (NIV)
There are no other traditions or names that bring justification and wholeness like this. What God offers is the opportunity to admit that we are pitifully lost in selfishness yet have a Savior. I don't think that is mascaraing around in different names.
