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2.2 How Canadian Pentecostals Form a Ministerial Organization
Reflect on the following quote from the early conciliatory statement of the PAOC:
“be it resolved that we disapprove… of all such issues that divide and confuse God's people to no profit, and that aggressive evangelism be our motto.”
What do you think of the PAOC’s decision to allow a breadth of belief on some aspects of their doctrinal statement? Who should decide whether a matter is of secondary or primary importance, whether an issue is divisive and confusing, or clear and unifying? What do you think of the PAOC’s focus on evangelism over doctrine? Respond in a paragraph.
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32 Replies
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I like that there was an allowance for breadth in some aspects of the doctrinal statement, as it allows for space to grow in what was at the time a growing and developing movement. That being said, there are some issues that are of secondary and of primary importance and these distinctions I believe should be expanded upon and made clear. I like in the book of Acts when considering what to do with the Gentiles there was a conference or meeting so to speak of Apostles and extra local leaders who had authority, and I think that same should be seen today.
Although I do like the breadth that was given for doctrinal difference, I think it could be confusing today, and almost impossible to embark on a program of aggressive evangelism when issues of primary importance are not resolved. Individuals could aggressively evangelize, but to do so coherently in a collective manner, this could lead to even more splits, schism, and confusion, with converts getting caught in the crossfire.
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I agree with the reconciliatory statement – let’s not be divided over doctrinal issues! I think the decision gave every member the freedom to express their faith in different ways. Since the scriptures say that either way of baptism is acceptable – Jesus said to baptize in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; Peter tells to baptize in the name of Jesus – I see this statement as unifying bringing oneness of beliefs. The scriptures should be the ultimate guide to making decisions and if Scripture is either unclear or silent, then we err on the side of unity, not division. I also agree that evangelism should be our focus, sharing the love of Jesus and making disciples. It is a commandment from Jesus!
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The main focus is to introduce Christ to the world that do know him.
The woman at the well what was her scripture she used to evangelize, come see a man who told me all about myself. Once christ I the centre we will not miss the mark .
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I fully support this stance to focus on reaching those who do not know Christ, rather than split hairs on doctrinal differences. We all love and worship the same Holy God, small things such as the way water baptism is preformed should not divide us as believers. It saddens me when people get so riled up over these things as I feel they are missing the heart of Christ in their disputes
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