United in spiritual principles in spite of social differences

As we journey toward celebrating 180 years of the World Evangelical Alliance this September, we’re looking back at the remarkable moments that shaped our history.

In the 1800s, Christians of different denominations were often separated in both work and life. Rigid denominationalism meant there was little united Christian response to political unrest and brutal labor conditions, leaving the weak to fend for themselves.

That changed on 19 August 1846, when 800 – 1,000 Christian leaders — ministers, professors, and laypeople from more than 50 denominations across Europe and America — gathered in London as an expression of unity.

As Dr Ralph Wardlaw declared:
“When a sinner accepted Christ as his Saviour, he became a member of the Lord’s body and at the same moment one with all who were of Christ throughout the earth.”

This oneness was soon tested by difficult social issues. British delegates, many of whom had fought for years to end slavery, wished to exclude slaveholders from membership. American delegates, facing a different social context, opposed the proposal, fearing it would prevent some churches from joining the Alliance.

In the end, they agreed to confine their unity to spiritual principles, allowing each to follow the dictates of conscience in this matter.

The journey of unity has never been easy—but for 180 years, it has remained at the heart of the World Evangelical Alliance.