by Sandy Simpson, Deception In The Church, 1998

This is a short essay to illustrate, with some irony, just how unbiblical, subjective and relativistic Ecumenism really is.  A few definitions first:

ecumenism  – n : the doctrine of the ecumenical movement promoting cooperation and better understanding among different
religious denominations; aimed at universal Christian unity [syn: {ecumenicism}, {ecumenicalism}]
interfaith – adj : involving persons of different religious faiths; “an interfaith marriage”; “interfaith good will”  (Websters Dictionary)

“Ecumenism” starts innocently enough. It begins with a tolerant perspective of other denominations.  Then it moves on to acceptance of cults.  Finally it ends in a desire for unity with other religions, evolving (my note: “devolving” would be the more apt word) into what is called “Interfaith”.  This process is brought about by a wrong exegesis of Scripture, using verses such as the following out of context:

1Jo 3:11 This is the message you heard from the beginning: We should love one another.
Mt 7:12  So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
Ro 1:20  For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities–his eternal power and divine nature–have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.
Heb 12:14 Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no-one will see the Lord.
Tit 3:2  … to slander no-one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility towards all men.
Tit 2:11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men.
1Co 7:7  I wish that all men were as I am. But each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another
has that.
Ro 11:32 For God has bound all men over to disobedience so that he may have mercy on them all.
Joh 12:32  But I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself.”

Continue reading here.