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Opinions -
Editorials
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Written by Phil Spadaro
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Friday, 23 September 2005 |
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Page 3 of 4
The ICOC shares the same history with our
Stone-Campbell brothers. Our divergence is less than a few decades. We
have referenced the mainline’s spiritual anemia as a reason
for breaking with them; history has now returned the judgment to us. We
are the ones in a spiritual quandary and need the help of those who
have successfully recovered and refocused. The mainline, our spiritual
fathers, are in a unique position to help us.
Church culture
is the least important consideration and yet proves to be the focal
point of division. The ICOC and other Stone-Campbell churches do
approach many subjects from different angles, but these have proven to
be Satan’s smokescreens. The mainline is (and has) dealing (dealt) with
the very same issues. Let us learn from them.
Practical Proposal
If
then conservative RM churches are our brothers in Christ, we should
consider cooperating for the purposes of meeting the needs of
disciples, reaching the lost and helping the poor.
Maturing Disciples
The
mainline has this to offer to disciples; maturity, education (ACU,
Harding, etc…), practical training (Family Dynamics), experience
(Elderlink), relational discipleship and deeper Bible study. Perhaps as
a group of churches we can negotiate / communicate our desire for
closer working ties with local mainline churches, universities and
visiting teachers and evangelists. The initial coordination would be
handled by L.A. and could transition to regional cooperation. Romans
15:5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a
spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ
Jesus…”
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Last Updated ( Tuesday, 10 January 2006 )
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Opinions 
