Next, Eastern Orthodox theology has not created a full-scale theology of the church, but has distinctive systematic traditions. Some of the characteristics of Eastern ecclesiology are the church is the image of the trinity, this is inclusive of the family unit, schools, workshops, and the universal church. Secondly, since the church is the image of the trinity, it represents the principal of identity and mutuality at the same time. “Unity in diversity” exemplifies the autonomy of the trinity, as paralleled by the church being composed of independent, but related churches. Furthermore, like the trinity, all persons are equal, and no one holds absolute power over anyone else. The vivid consciousness of community means that no one is saved alone, but as a church member they are saved by the union of other members; because the spiritual journey is found in fellowship, rather than isolation. In cosmological terms the church is the center of the universe, and the sphere is where destiny is determined. The church is where union with God is given, and humans are restored to their original role as co-creators with God. Then, the core of Eastern Orthodox ecclesiology is founded on the principal that grace is both mediated and experienced through the Eucharist, or rather the …show more content…
They are one in their multiplicity. They believe from a Platonic approach that they are the ideal church, which correlates with their belief in Calvin’s visible church. Eastern Orthodox uses the word sobornost that means catholic or conciliar. According to McGraths definitions of catholic, the orthodox approach it from the aspect of, “spread throughout the entire inhabited world.” This means that there may be multiple churches but they are all one in unity with God. Again, they are one in their multiplicity. It is clear that the Eastern Orthodox believe the spiritual journey of humans is found in fellowship, rather than isolation. The church is the center of the universe, and the sphere is where destiny is determined. Thus, the church is where union with God is given, and humans are restored to their original role as co-creators with God or rather deified. In addressing the constitution of the Word of God, Eastern Orthodoxy believe that the preaching of the word and the right sacraments are linked with the presence of Christ and wherever Christ is, there his church is to be found as well. Furthermore, the Eastern Orthodox fall under McGraths category of a pure body. They believe that grace is a reward for the virtue of the human will, which is the cooperation of the divine and human. Therefore,