Our Oneness in Christ

A book about Christian unity

Ian B. Johnson and Lauston Stephens, "Our Oneness in Christ"

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Articles And Reviews

Articles

Article by Ian B. Johnson:I'm looking for joint authors for several sequel works on the general subject of Christian unity! See, Published Christian Author Seeking Joint Authors for New Works.

Article by Ian B. Johnson:A conciliatory approach to speaking in tongues, presents a basis for reconciliation of the Pentecostal branch of the Church with the more traditional branches, based on an analysis of the Scriptures about tongues, Pentecostal history and the purpose of the Gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Reviews

Glowing Review by Bruce Cook, Ph.D.:

"Ostensibly a book of theology and Bible exegesis, this volume breaks new ground in the increasingly important struggle for unity among Christian believers. It is a fresh new look at church unity. This stance is remarkable because it rests on Biblical analysis (exegesis) to prove a point usually made by Christian believers who are turned off by literal analysis of Biblical text... This could be the most significant movement in the Christian church since the reformation."

Dr. Cook's review may be read in its entirety at Reserve Books.com.

Five-Star Review by GhostWriter Literary Reviews

"The main theme that the authors develop is that "most of God's promises were given to the Church as a unified Body, and become inaccessible when we live individualistically and in division." The authors don’t just merely state their opinions, but they back up their belief with the scripture that is the foundation for their belief... As a 'Bible Study' I think this book is good and will benefit the reader."

This review may be read in its entirety at GhostWriter Literary Reviews.

"Living Consistently With Being One in Christ," Five-Star Review by Richard Blake, also published on Amazon.com

"Our Oneness in Christ" is a refreshing, long awaited for reminder of the need to live consistent with our position as believers. We are one with Christ and in Christ. Ian Johnson and Lauston Stephens provide insights often overlooked in today's literature, pulpits, and seminaries. These important truths are overshadowed by church tradition, denominational prejudice, and individual indifference.

The first section of the book answers the question: Why living consistently in oneness with Christ is important. The authors discuss God’s expectation of us, the benefits and pitfalls of living in opposition to this truth. They go on to reflect on what oneness in Christ is and is not, including the divergent concepts held among Christians regarding living in harmony. The final chapters deal with stumbling blocks to living in oneness, including, misunderstandings on concepts of authority, submission, heresy and the differences between the essential church and the ordered church.

I personally appreciated the thoughts from John 17 as Jesus prayed to the Father for oneness to be manifest among the believers.

“Our Oneness in Christ” is a book written in layman’s language. Supporting scriptures reinforce the importance of the subject matter. The detailed bibliography and thorough end notes make this an excellent reference tool and resource for further study for adult Bible classes, small group Bible study, or individual study. A much needed book on a subject close to God’s own heart. "

Review by Pastor Dwight Coffman, Creston Baptist Church, for Spiritrestoration.org

" What is the most urgent problem of the modern day Church? Could it be that we fail to see and realize our need of each other in Christ? The authors, Ian Johnson and Lauston Stephens, make a compelling argument from scripture that the body of Christ is sadly divided and in need of unity. Defining for us their definitions of "Essential Church" and "Ordered Church" the authors help us see our need of each other. The reach of the true Church goes far beyond the group we meet with weekly (weakly). Obviously, the Church goes beyond the boundaries of denominations, but the authors go from scripture to history to clearly show us this important truth. As they draw illustrations from past and present religious problems, we are made to think about our modern day situation in view of what the Lord requires of each of us.

This book should be read by all Christians who are looking for true revival in this age. Although it is not a book about revival per se, it deals with a fundamental issue that we must face before we can be instruments of God in any real move of revival. As long as we think the work of God or the body of Christ is exclusive to our little group, we are handicapped to what the Holy Spirit would do through us. How many of God's people want to see Him work, as long as the work begins with our group and we get credit for it?

"Our Oneness in Christ" would be an excellent book for a group study in your fellowship. I am sure it will stimulate thought and discussion as the Holy Spirit deals with these very real issues that the Church faces.

Any honest Christian who will prayerfully work their way through this book will be convicted and helped. I pray that this book will come into the hands of those that need it as much as I did. "