Book Review #3

Karkkainen, Veli-Matti, An Introduction to Ecclesiology: Ecumenical Historical and Global Perspectives, 2002, InterVarsity Press.

All Christians are influenced by the cultural and traditional factors of their particular church. In the interest of unity within the body of believers, it is important for individuals to understand the differing traditions and contemporary Ecclesiologies. Although deviating theologies create diversity and liberation within the church, such differences can lead to counter-productive division if we do not find a common ground. Karkkainen’s introduction to Ecclesiology seeks to solve the above dilemma. The thesis, or motive, of the book is to give a basic Ecclesiological background of the leading Christian theologies, as well as leading contemporary Ecclesiologies, in an attempt to create true Christian unity where division has birthed.

The first section of the book is dedicated to outlining the traditions and foundations of the following movements: Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Lutheran, Reformed, Free Church, Pentecostal/Charismatic, and Ecumenical movements. His sections for each faith are quite exhaustive in terms of the history and religious convictions of the people in question. Of the above churches, I am only personally learned (through life experiences) in the free and Charismatic churches. I consider myself a non-denominational Christian; this is, in part, because I am in a church that holds this title. The study of other church movements has (a) allowed me to see where many of the characteristics of my faith have come from and (b) afforded me a better understanding of different believers whom, in the recent past, I felt slightly disconnected to.

Although Karkkainen’s presentation had a positive effect on me in terms of empathy, it did not by its very nature bridge the gap between the faiths. Furthermore, the book showed me how certain aspects of my faith have come from different traditions; however, it did not sufficiently show commonality amongst these belief systems beyond the fundamentals of the faith. Another contrary force to Karkkainen’s goal of unity is his belief that the emphasis of salvation through Jesus Christ is a more individualistic concept as opposed to a socialistic idea. Since the focus is on the individual experience, the notion of true Christian community is not the ultimate end, inter-growth is. Such concept is expressed in the following passage:

“The former (Protestantism) makes the relation of individuals to the church dependent on their relation to Christ, whereas the latter (Catholicism), conversely, makes the relation of individuals to Christ dependant on their relation to the church” (p.12).


Unification of the church is a topic that I am very passionate about and I envision dedicating a part of my vocation to its happening. I have recently been convicted of Christ’s desire for a unified bride on earth (for we will be truly unified for eternity in heaven) and I have a desire to start an inter-denominational/international conference with such end in mind. I am truly thankful for the information in this text as well as Karkkainen’s comments about the benefits of unity; however, I feel that further meditation and vision is necessary to put said ideals into practice.