What is the 'Resurrectionist' Perspective? Orthodox Faith Passed Down Across Denominations
Note: While respecting the freedom of religion, thought, and conscience, this article does not represent any specific denomination. The term 'Resurrectionist' is used here to describe an attitude that places the resurrection of Christ at the center of faith, and this is an attempt to examine and explain its meaning.
Introduction
In the previous article, I organized the differences between 'Evangelicalism' and 'Biblical Inerrancy.' I confirmed that while the two have overlapping areas, they are not identical, and it is important not to lose sight of the diversity that exists in the world of faith.
In this article, I would like to consider the perspective of the 'Resurrectionist' as a further theme. This is a term I use myself, but it is not a novel, eccentric coinage; rather, I believe it is a name that expresses the core of the orthodox faith rooted in the primitive church.
The Perspective of the Resurrectionist
A Resurrectionist can be described as someone who seeks to place the resurrection of Christ at the center of their faith. While I believe that differences in denominations and detailed doctrines are important, before focusing on those parts, I first place the core of faith on the single point of the resurrection. This position is something that I believe many people can share, regardless of whether they are Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox, or non-denominational.
The Resurrectionist does not deny other denominations. Rather, by placing resurrection faith at a common center, it has the potential to build bridges across denominations. I also believe that a Resurrectionist can move to other denominations, because I consider the foundation of resurrection faith to be important regardless of which denomination one belongs to.
Continuity with the Primitive Church
This attitude reflects the way of the primitive Christian church.
The 'most important thing' recorded in Chapter 15 of the First Epistle to the Corinthians in the New Testament was that Christ died, was buried, and was raised on the third day. The sermons of Peter and Paul depicted in the Acts of the Apostles are also summarized in the message, 'God raised Jesus, and we are witnesses to it.'
In other words, what existed in the church before doctrinal systems and liturgical forms were established was the faith in the resurrection of Christ. It could be said that the Resurrectionist is one who rediscovers this pure and powerful faith of the primitive church for the modern age.
The Resurrectionist as Orthodox Faith
I believe that placing the resurrection at the center is not merely a personal idea. The core of the confessions of faith that have been recognized as 'orthodox' throughout church history—the Apostles' Creed and the Nicene Creed—can also be considered to lie in the resurrection.
Paul said, 'If Christ has not been raised, our faith is in vain' (1 Corinthians 15:17). Furthermore, as an apostle chosen by Christ, Paul is considered to have conveyed teachings with orthodoxy in the faith of the Christian church from the 1st and 2nd centuries. Therefore, it can be said that it is determined that a faith lacking the resurrection is not orthodox Christianity. Conversely, a faith that places the resurrection at the center can be considered a reaffirmation of orthodox faith itself.
Conclusion
Terms like 'Evangelical' and 'Biblical Inerrantist' may change their meanings depending on the era and culture, and can easily cause misunderstandings and friction. However, amidst that complexity, what has been universally passed down is 'resurrection faith.'
I believe that the Resurrectionist is a faith stance that seeks to connect people across denominations, and is also an expression of an old yet new orthodox faith. In the diverse faith landscape of today, the position of 'Resurrectionist' may be what shows the axis for overcoming division and walking together while respecting one another.
Furthermore, when considered in the context of Japan, this position seems to have particular significance. Christians are a minority in Japanese society, and when distinctions between denominations are emphasized, the entrance may feel narrow to those seeking faith. However, if one stands from the perspective of a 'Resurrectionist,' one can first connect on the single point of believing in the resurrection, and it becomes clear that there is room to be accepted in any denomination. Might this not be a reassuring guidepost for those seeking faith?
Also, I think this attitude provides suggestions for the future of the church. Even globally, movements to 'pray together' and 'witness together' across denominational differences are progressing. It is believed that the event of Christ's resurrection is also placed at the center of that. If the church is to strengthen its unity in the future, its foundation will likely be found not in complex doctrinal systems, but in the resurrection faith inherited from the primitive church.
The 'Resurrectionist' is a term that, while looking back at the past, supports our faith as we live in the present and points toward future unity.