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2.5 ACOP & ECP Merger
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I believe the decision to merge ACOP & ECP lines up with scripture. The Holy Spirit descended on the believers at Pentecost while they were all of one mind in one place. I believe that we have an enemy who would like nothing more than to see God’s people divide over petty manmade differences. Jesus also said that a house divided cannot stand. Unity, fellowship, and relationship are a sign of our faith. It is important to stand firm on foundational faith issues, but on issues where scripture can be interpreted in various ways, then we should be cautious about creating descension. We, as the Church would do much better at representing Jesus by being confident enough to differ without condemning. At this point in the history of the ACOP, the leaders seem to be endeavouring to attain unity in the faith.
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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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