The "bottom line" of who is/is not "a Christian" has to be God's judgment and God's alone. But there are some things that give life to all of us who profess to be members of the Body of Christ. Beyond regional, cultural, even doctrinal matters, what really makes us followers in fact of Jesus Christ? Not that doctrine is unimportant- it certainly is important- but also the fact is that we are saved by Jesus Himself, and not by our great wisdom in grasping facts, truth with a small "t". Jesus Himself is the Truth.
My personal conviction is that the Church will continue to grow and be healthy even if some sincere movements within the churches flame out and popular spokespersons come and go-- for Jesus Himself has promised that He will build the Church, which is His Body. But I believe the Church will flourish precisely as it re-discovers the vitality of traditions that have been discarded because they have been mis-used , misunderstood, and even sadly neglected. The Holy Communion, regularly and reverently observed will vitalize any congregation. The Creed(s) thoughtfully affirmed often, publicly will filter into the souls of young and old alike. The Lord's Prayer, prayed together week by week by whole congregations, has a way of meeting the current needs-- far from "vain repetition" it will foster unity in the Body.
I love the Church!
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