The Universal Life Church (ULC) is a religious organization that offers anyone ordination as a minister for free, without requiring specific doctrinal adherence. The ULC has no traditional doctrine, instead promoting religious freedom and appreciation for all faiths. Anyone can become ordained online in minutes by signing up on the ULC website. Over 20 million ministers have been ordained through the ULC since its founding in 1959.
The Bible does not directly address organizations like the Universal Life Church, as this type of non-denominational religious movement did not exist during biblical times. However, there are some biblical principles that can provide insight into how Christians may view the ULC.
Freedom of Religion
The ULC’s promotion of religious freedom aligns with biblical teachings on freedom of conscience. The Bible emphasizes that faith must be voluntary and cannot be coerced. Jesus declared that his kingdom was “not of this world” (John 18:36), distinguishing between spiritual and political authority. The apostle Paul taught that believers should follow their own convictions about disputable matters, stating “each one should be fully convinced in his own mind” (Romans 14:5). Christians are called to faith and obedience, but the Bible does not permit using force or compulsion in matters of religion.
Appreciation of Other Faiths
The ULC’s inclusive stance toward different religions resonates with biblical calls to show respect and consideration for those of other faiths. Jesus told the parable of the Good Samaritan to teach love for neighbors, highlighting a Samaritan showing mercy over the religious elite (Luke 10:25-37). The apostle Peter realized that God’s grace extends to all when he declared, “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him” (Acts 10:34-35). The Bible commends thoughtful engagement with divergent beliefs, not dismissiveness or disrespect.
Integrity in Ministry
While the ULC has noble principles of inclusion and freedom, some criticize that its lenient ordination standards lack adequate integrity for Christian ministry. The Bible emphasizes high standards for spiritual leadership, stating that not many should presume to be teachers because they will incur “stricter judgment” (James 3:1). Leaders must have integrity (Titus 1:6-9), evidence of true faith (1 Timothy 3:9), and a divine calling (Hebrews 5:4). While the ULC has democratized ordination, the Bible still reserves ministry roles for those who meet rigorous biblical qualifications.
Caution Regarding False Teaching
Some Christians express concern that the ULC’s openness toward different faiths may enable the promotion of unbiblical teaching. The Bible repeatedly warns against false prophets and teachings that contradict sound doctrine (2 Peter 2:1, 1 Timothy 1:3). Christians are called to discern truth from error (1 John 4:1) and to avoid being led astray by “every wind of teaching” (Ephesians 4:14). A completely open-ended approach can make it hard to exercise biblical discernment about what honors God versus what distorts His truth.
Unity Within Orthodox Christianity
The ULC brings together people of widely divergent beliefs, but the Bible centers unity on shared commitment to apostolic teaching about Christ. Jesus prayed for deep unity among his followers based on them being sanctified in truth through God’s word (John 17:17-21). The early church devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching as the basis for fellowship (Acts 2:42). While the ULC promotes interfaith connections, the Bible prioritizes unity among orthodox believers affirming foundational Christian doctrine.
Caution Regarding Motives and Methods
Some worry the ULC’s convenient, no-strings ordination may appeal to those with questionable motives or methods. Jesus warned that false prophets are “ferocious wolves” who can be identified by their “fruit” (Matthew 7:15-20). The Bible repeatedly unmasks charlatans who exploit religion for money, power, or prominence (2 Peter 2:1-3). While not inherently wrong, the ULC’s easily attained status requires judiciousness to avoid enabling spiritual charlatans or exploiting people’s needs.
Importance of Theological Clarity
The ULC de-emphasizes specific theological beliefs in favor of interfaith connections. However, the Bible highlights the importance of sound doctrine for spiritual health and effective ministry. Paul told Titus to “teach what is in accord with sound doctrine” (Titus 2:1). Timothy was instructed to “watch your doctrine closely” (1 Timothy 4:16). Theological precision helps believers avoid being “tossed to and fro by the waves” (Ephesians 4:14). While interfaith engagement has value, the Bible still underscores theological clarity.
Universal Priesthood of All Believers
Some aspects of the ULC reflect the Protestant teaching about the “priesthood of all believers” – that all Christians have access to God and can serve Him without ecclesiastical mediation. The Bible teaches that Jesus is the one mediator between God and man (1 Timothy 2:5), that through Christ all believers are “a chosen people, a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9). The Reformers used this principle to critique clericalism and religious hierarchies. So the ULC’s direct ordination of lay people has resonance with this important biblical doctrine.
Importance of Christian Community
While affirming personal spirituality, the Bible strongly emphasizes belonging to a faith community. The New Testament epistles were written to churches in various locales. The author of Hebrews exhorted Christians to “not give up meeting together” (Hebrews 10:25). Jesus declared that God’s people experience his presence “where two or three gather” in his name (Matthew 18:20). Authentic faith integrates both personal devotion and participation in the body of Christ. ULC ordination lacks structures for community and accountability.
Stewardship of Ministry Calling
Some Christians may have concerns about how ULC ordination is stewarded. The Bible teaches God gives spiritual gifts and callings, and believers must use them responsibly. Leaders must be found “faithful” with God’s gifts to them (1 Corinthians 4:2). Jesus told a parable condemning someone who buried their talents instead of investing them (Matthew 25:14-30). Christians with a ministerial calling should prayerfully consider how to use it in a way that bears fruit for God’s kingdom.
Pursuit of Godly Character
The ULC has minimal requirements regarding character for ordination. Yet the Bible exhorts Christians to “pursue a righteous life” (1 Timothy 6:11) and exemplify the “fruit of the Spirit” like love and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Leaders must exhibit mature character, not be “eager for money” or “pursuing dishonest gain” (1 Peter 5:2, 1 Timothy 3:3). Scripture emphasizes moral integrity as crucial for influencing others for Christ. So while ordination may be easily attained through the ULC, godly character requires a lifetime of spiritual growth.
Diligence in Biblical Literacy
The ULC does not prescribe study requirements for its ministers. However, the Bible stresses the importance of knowing Scripture thoroughly. Paul told Timothy, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). Leaders must hold “firm to the trustworthy word as taught” to be able to give instruction in sound doctrine (Titus 1:9). Diligence in biblical literacy is essential, even if not mandated by a specific church.
Avoiding Spiritual Complacency
Some Christians regard ULC ordination as misguided due to concerns it may foster complacency or apathy. Jesus warned against “lukewarm” faith that is neither hot nor cold (Revelation 3:15-16). Complacency thwarts spiritual growth and effective ministry. The Bible exhorts moral excellence (2 Peter 1:5-8), good works (Titus 3:8), and persevering labor for God’s kingdom (1 Corinthians 15:58). Followers of Christ are called to fervent discipleship, not casual religion. Serious stewardship of ministry requires avoiding complacency.
Sole Authority of the Bible
As an interfaith organization, the ULC does not recognize the unique authority of the Bible. Yet Scripture claims to be “God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16) and the ultimate standard for truth and spiritual guidance. The prophets and apostles conveyed God’s very words, not human opinions (1 Thessalonians 2:13). Jesus declared that Scripture cannot be broken (John 10:35) and equated his words with divine truth (John 17:17). The Bible cautions against adding to or taking away from its teachings (Revelation 22:18-19). For Christians, the Bible has sole and final doctrinal authority.
In conclusion, while the Universal Life Church offers an unconventional approach to ministry and religion, Christians evaluating its appropriateness for believers must filter its principles through the lens of biblical teachings. There are both affinities and areas of divergence between ULC practices and the Bible’s guidance for authentic spiritual life and leadership. Wisdom and discernment are required to weigh both positive aspects and potential concerns.