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 Last
month we reported the Arlington meeting, where brethren
discussed their differences and studied scriptures on various
issues. We made no effort to review or draw conclusions,
nor do we think this is wise. Let the records speak for
themselves! Material is being prepared for publication so
the public can read and evaluate.
But
interest in such meetings in general warrants some statements
relative to them. If other "Arlington Meetings"
follow, and I hope they do, certain principles are necessary
lest we jump "out of the frying pan into the fire."
First,
no "conference of delegates" existed; and had we so
presumed, no scriptural grounds for such could be found. No
"big shots" or "little," can
"decide" anything for anyone else.
Scriptural unity is not the amalgamation of
"parties" but the acceptance of divine truth by individuals.
Hence, those who participate in "Arlington Meetings"
can only present what they believe to be the truth set forth in
scriptures, and let the test of untrammeled investigation reveal
the merit of their faith and practice. Churches did not divide
(or should not have) by party decree, but by the failure
of individuals to study and act as Christians. The
process must be reversed -- on an individual basis.
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What
was done in Arlington can help the church in Burnet, only as
brethren in Burnet do what was done in Arlington. If it was good
for brethren who differed to meet in Arlington, and frankly'
discuss the scriptures as they pertain to the organization and
work of the church, it is good for Burnet brethren to do the
same. Of course this is the procedure we have advocated from
the first.
Although
I "blame" those who teach and practice things for
which there is no Bible authority -- I hasten to add that there
is little hope for peace or unity in looking back, reviewing
past actions or words, or assigning blame.
Far
more appropriate to correction of any wrong is the NOW attitude.
Who is NOW holding up the works?
What
NOW prevents us from sitting down together with open Bibles,
fairly defining the issues between us, and seeking to find the
scriptural solution? God will not hold blameless those who seek
to have their way through majority rule, quarantine, public
"hush-hush" and private name-calling.
The
honest fact is -- such people do not really want scriptural
unity!
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