The Restoration Movement in Christianity: A Comprehensive Overview

The Restoration Movement in Christianity refers to a diverse group of churches and movements that believe true Christianity has been lost and needs to be restored to its original New Testament form. This movement gained momentum in the 19th century with some notable churches like Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mormons, and the Churches of Christ.

Introduction to Restorationism

Restorationism, also known as Christian primitivism, is the belief that Christianity should be restored to its original form as practiced by the apostolic church in the New Testament period. Restorationists seek to purify the religion by returning to the teachings and practices they believe were followed by the early Christians.

Diverse Views on Restorationism

Unlike Catholics, Orthodox Christians, and Copts, who see their organizations as an unbroken continuation of the early church, Protestants also believe in an unbroken line of Christ’s church but recognize the need for reformation. Restorationists, however, believe something fundamental was lost centuries ago and view restoration as a necessity through divine means.

The Historical Context

The Restoration Movement began in the 1800s in America. Key figures and groups associated with this movement include the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons), Jehovah’s Witnesses, Seventh-day Adventists, Stone-Campbell Movement, and various independent denominations.

Core Beliefs of Restorationists

Restorationists typically believe that true Christianity died out over the centuries and needs to be completely rebuilt to its original form. This belief often results in the following key tenets:

Denial of apostasy A belief in a complete or near-total apostasy during the first century Restoration through divine intervention Avoidance of traditional church practices viewed as unscriptural

For example, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believes it has the truth and that all other groups are not really Christian.

Consequences of Restorationist Philosophy

Adopting a restorationist perspective can lead to several negative outcomes:

Exclusivism: Believing your group has the truth and denouncing others as apostates or tools of the devil Divisiveness: Leading to spiritual animosity and a lack of Christian unity Arrogance: Leaders may become unduly proud, leading to erroneous interpretations and rewrites of Scripture. Denial of God's sovereignty: Rejecting His provision and plan for His people

These beliefs not only lead to harmful divisions but also misrepresent the nature of God, who remains faithful and doesactic in His plan for salvation.

Biblical Perspectives on Restorationism

Biblical texts provide a different perspective. Romans 3:3 highlights God's faithfulness even when His people are unfaithful. Proverbs 16:5 and James 4:6 describe pride and arrogance as sins that God finds especially abhorrent. Finally, Jude 3 emphasizes that the faith has been preserved for the saints, and God's plan will continue to be fulfilled.

Conclusion

The Restoration Movement offers a compelling view of church history and a roadmap for returning to what they perceive as true Christianity. While it provides a strong foundation for Christian practice and belief, the philosophy of restorationism can lead to divisiveness and a misunderstanding of God's sovereign role in the world. Understanding these perspectives offers a richer context for exploring the diversity of Christian beliefs and practices.