Regarding closed communion, it has been practiced by Protestants for several hundred years. And it was that practice of “ostraziation” that you used, that resulted in The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) grew out of two movements seeking Christian unity that sprang up almost simultaneously in western Pennsylvania and Kentucky – movements that were backlashes against the rigid denominationalism of the early 1800s.
Presbyterian ministers Barton W. Stone in Kentucky and Thomas Campbell and Alexander Campbell in Pennsylvania and West Virginia were the leaders of this movement that was part of the Restoration Movement of the Great Awakening between 1790 and 1820. The 3 ministers believed that communion was given to us by Jesus and it was not for a denomination to refuse communion to any professing Christian.
See also: http://disciples.org/our-identity/history-of-the-disciples/
Thanks for the ping and and the link and your explanation of open communion by the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). I agree that is the way it ought to be.
Very interesting read! Church 'denominations' are failing to hear and obey the Lord's prayer that "they (Believers) be one as you (the Father) and I are one."
If a Church denomination agrees that a different denomination is made up of Christians, then it "may be" the biggest obstacle to full fellowship is: money, religious pride, power and control.
No. It is a practice of saying “I believe what this church body teaches!”
So I am NOT in communion with the Catholic church, and they are NOT in communion with me. They are Christians, but I can not take communion with them because of that.