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 For
20 years or more we have tried to warn brethren of this
generation that when “cooperation” becomes collective action
of a plurality of churches, it violates congregational
independence, and is the historic way to denominational
organization. Most of our “examples” have been taken from
the history of brethren in this country. We were not surprised,
however, to find that the same movement took place in Canada.
Note
the following quotes from “History of the Disciples of
Christ in Canada Since 1830” by Reuben Butchart; pub. 1949.
“The
method of working together in Christian effort beyond the bounds
of the local church has immemorially been known as “the
co-operation”. It was a method, not an entity. But, in time,
the brethren learned they could safely delegate power to persons
to act for the body. Thus the idea of’ an organization became
a fact, perhaps in 1846. As men saw that the move was in harmony
with other advances of mankind confidence was raised. That
adverse criticism should hamper progress by so humane a method
is something to marvel at. Liberty has been sorely won, in
religion as in State.”
The
writer could offer no “harmony” with the scriptures, but
felt it accorded with “humane” methods and “advances of
mankind.” Acknowledging opposition, he attempts to escape by
ridicule. He writes, as do some today, as though the opposition
asks for specific authority for everything to be done in
religion; then has the gall to say they “beg the
question.”
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He
says, “One hidden cause for hesitation lay in the realm of ‘expedients’
for the propagation of the gospel message. With the concept of a
church and its fundamental beliefs and practices clearly and
prophetically outlined in the New Testament, grew apparently, in
some minds, as an afterthought, the idea that nothing but what
was used, mentioned, or approved in the Book should constitute
any part of Christian endeavor, either within or without the
church. This attitude to disciplined minds, plainly begs the
question: It is clearly uncritical and unsound.”
But
our liberal brethren are far to brilliant to be held in check by
divine authority. In Canada, as in the U. S. A., “The
practical awoke in them as they threw off some of the chains of
fear. Two churches would co-operate, practically always their
method. Soon a group joined in, and their proceedings justified
the step, because the ‘laborers’ sent forth returned and
told the ‘church’ just what they had done. Thus the Church
was honored; but still (in the words of the gospel) “some
believed not.” Yet, the parent co-operation, the Eramosa-Erin
Co-operation, the Niagara one, the Georgian Bay co-operation,
the Prince Edward County co-operation came to productive life.
By the year 1843 a “provincial co-operation” was in being,
in a manner in which the majority apparently agreed.” (Chapter
7, Pp. 77-f.)
Today
brethren are “co-operating” themselves into the same
organizational trap. History foretells the fate of those who
blindly repeat it.
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