3.4 – How ACOP’s Beliefs Have Evolved

[Melissa Smyth]

I feel like the statement of faith needs to mostly focus on the core aspects of our faith and how we are to live that out. We need to be careful to keep it to the most important things and not stray into 3rd order beliefs in our statement of faith. That being said, clarity is very important and something we need. There are lots of arising conversations regarding sexual identity and orientation, and it is something that providing clarity for can be super helpful. But I also feel uncomfortable, as sometimes it feels like what Christians are known for or what they rally around is what we are against, and I would much rather focus on Jesus and who He is and life in Him!

[Aidan]

There are certainly many issues arising today that could be addressed by our statement of faith (gender dysphoria, indigenous rights, artificial intelligence, to name a few). However, I do not know whether additions to our statement of faith is the proper way to engage these issues. Rather, I think leaning into the Spirit-empowered distinctives of our faith is a much wiser way to approach these challenging issues. In 2024, ACOP has made adjustments to their statement of faith, one of which was the inclusion of empowered witness as the outcome/purpose of the Baptism of the Spirit. I think this is a better way forward. These contemporary issues are complex and ever evolving/changing. Rather than taking a reactionary stance in our statement of faith (though not inherently wrong), they must be addressed by the wisdom of the Spirit.

[Celestine]

The ACOP may need to consider addressing current social issues such as artificial intelligence, bioethics, or environmental stewardship in future versions of the Statement of Faith. These topics intersect with biblical values and Christian responsibility, requiring thoughtful reflection and guidance. By addressing these issues, the ACOP can provide clarity and direction for its members, ensuring they navigate complex societal challenges with biblical integrity and wisdom.

[Zach]

It is possible that a future addition may need to be added to address the issues surrounding gender confusion. The addition of marriage between a man and a woman may need to have further clarification, remarkably, as to what is in fact a man and what is a woman. This may help churches and their leadership, as well as serve as a witness to the Creator who made them male and female. This would however require delicate wording, so as to help and not punish those who are genuinely seeking answers but who are perhaps confused and seeking identity.