[AlbionGirl]

I just finished reading the History of Christianity by Paul Johnson. It practically read itself, and while I believe him to be a liberal (and he is RC), I dont' think I've ever read a more honest historical narrative. Not that I agree w/every conclusion he draws, but he's honest and capable of real introspection, and because of that, it's a book I will probably reference for a long, long time to come.

In his epilogue he posits that perhaps the ecclesial discord is part of God's plan, and I've thought that myself many times. Easier to preserve a remnant, IMO. I see the ecumenical movement as dangerous too because when all is said and done, I don't see the capacity for true intropspection. Maybe I'm wrong, and I wouldn't mind being proved wrong at all.

[Dr. Eckleburg]

In his epilogue he posits that perhaps the ecclesial discord is part of God's plan...

Sounds like Paul Johnson has the makings of a first-rate Reformer. 8~)

[PetroniusMaximus]

"In his epilogue he posits that perhaps the ecclesial discord is part of God's plan, and I've thought that myself many times"

I've always heard that the purpose of the splintering of the nations at the tower of Babel was to slow the spread of evil. I've thought of that often within the context of the Church.