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2.5 ACOP & ECP Merger
What do you think of the ACOP’s decision in 1954 to merge with the ECP, despite a few doctrinal differences (which, in large part, were the same differences that kept Small from staying with the PAOC)? How highly should unity, fellowship, and relationship be valued in comparison with a doctrinal difference? How does fellowship function where there is doctrinal difference?
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19 Replies
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I feel as though their decision to “agree to disagree” actually promotes more unity in the whole body of Christ rather than seeking to agree on doctrinal beliefs. At the end of the day, it is the same God that we worship and the same death and resurrection that set us free. Setting aside their differences they were able to make clear what acutally mattered and the rest could just be put to the side. This encourages all to accept each other for who they are in Christ and promotes an environment of openess and learning
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There are many instances in Paul's letters where he urges Christians to essentially get along and stop dividing. I love that these two groups were able to focus on their similarities and agree to disagree as needed to join together. I think it's a healthy, Christian approach to relationship.
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I think it is a bit odd that the decision was made to merge with the ECP when the doctrinal differences were the reason why originally they were not connected with the PAOC. I think that unity should be something that is kept at the forefront of churches and Christian fellowship. We are to be unified in our pursuit of loving God and loving others, but that does not mean we cannot have doctrinal differences. Ultimately what matters is that we love each other and help each other when we can, even if we do have doctrinal differences. A fellowship can function when there is doctrinal differences by having conversations with people from all views and encouraging people to feel like they can share their opinions. This also includes having grace for one another.
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I believe the right answer is the most obvious one. Explicit doctrine (directly referenced or taught in the Bible) is the only concept that should cause a group to divide. These minor theological differences, which many don’t even imply how we walk out our faith, should not be cause for division and separation among Christians. I think there are some beauties regarding different denominations, but as a whole, I think Christianity would be more unified if they did not exist.
So with that being said, I’m in favor of choosing fellowship over doctrinal differences, and I respect Small’s decision to move that way.
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