2.4 How ACOP Came into Existence

[Caleb]

of all the reasons listed as purpose for the formation of ACOP, the reason that stands out the most to me is reason 6:

“To print, publish, distribute and sell and buy Christian literature, periodicals, pamphlets, booklets, books and other writings for the furtherance of the work of the Corporation.”

I find this reason most interesting because it is one I wouldn’t naturally think of. It makes sense to publish works pertaining to your views to help spread awareness of your own views and give them a platform. With a definitive Corporation or denomination of sorts, I imagine it adds credibility to doctrinal beliefs and gives other likeminded people a platform to join you in your beliefs. Publishing works of literature as a definitive cooperation makes sense missionally, informatively, and collectively as a group of likeminded individuals.

[Micah]

I find #6 interesting, especially in relation to something Wes pointed out: it seems like the distribution of literature was more important then training or raising up ministers in good theology. As a current student of Eston College this may land different as I am highly valuing the shaping that God is doing in my thinking, but it still seems strange that they were focused on publishing books but without any training tied to that.

[Kylie]

The most interesting to me was probably the buying and selling of property, mainly because that is just an aspect of ministry I do not often think of. As well as buying and selling of property is typically an individualistic process/thought in society, thus it is intriguing to think of it in the perspective of a church organization, a collective.

[Cailey]

6. “To print, publish, distribute, sell, and buy Christian literature, periodicals, pamphlets, booklets, books, and other writings for the furtherance of the of the work of the corporation. “

In that statement it shows that the ‘corporation’ valued education themselves & educating others (which is marketing). It’s so inspiring to know that in the beginning that was a core belief.

I am a bit of a marketing nerd and find it so fascinating that even way back then, The ACOP Organization recognized the importance of marketing & education itself.