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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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24 Replies
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The ACOP’s decision to merge with the ECP in 1954, despite doctrinal differences, highlights the importance of unity, fellowship, and relationship in the body of Christ. While doctrine is crucial, unity and cooperation can be valuable in advancing the Gospel and serving a broader audience. In cases where doctrinal differences exist, fellowship can function through:
1. Focusing on shared core beliefs
2. Respectful dialogue and understanding
3. Prioritizing common goals and missions
4. Embracing diversity within unity
The balance between doctrine and unity is delicate. While doctrine provides foundation, unity and fellowship facilitate cooperation and witness. Ultimately, each situation requires prayerful consideration, discernment, and a commitment to biblical principles.
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I think the merging of the ECP and ACOP is a great example of how fellowship can exist despite disagreements. I will admit I am challenged by the two groups’ willingness to look past their disagreement on something as foundational as the Trinity – I’m not sure if I would have navigated that debate well. Yet the greater freedoms, accessibility, and partnership that was gained as a result of the merger made flexibility in this debate possible. It just goes to show that the pursuit of unity is possible for the church. This story is an encouragement for those of us who want to see the church grow in their love for one another despite differences in our doctrine.
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Disagreeing on a theology as important as the Godhead is crazy to me! But I am grateful for the merger that they did come together. I appreciate that they saw a similar heart and mission in each other and realized that they could do so much more together instead of as two separate groups. I love how God brings His people together and helps us focus back on Himself and what He is doing in the world instead of our differences.
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I think the merger, despite doctrinal differences, was a good thing given the recognized need to prioritize fellowship and relationship. I do not think truth is arrived at via consensus, nor is it a meeting in the middle, nor do I believe that truth is bendable and unimportant. The Bible says we have fellowship with one another as we walk in the light as he is in the light. For me however, the Truth is a person (JESUS), and as such truth is arrived at in a reply relational way, namely in relationship with that one who is Truth, but also with his people. The church is called the pillar and ground of Truth (1 Tim. 3:15), the place where the True one invest his Truth in His body, and thus relationship that at least agrees to the pre-eminence of Jesus should be pursued, and may actually be the best place to discover Truth Himself.
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