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1 |
We
affirm the need to humble
ourselves and repent whenever and wherever the Gospel has
slipped out of focus in our work and relationships - James
5:16 |
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We reject
unwillingness to repent and seek forgiveness when leadership
efforts fail to place the love of Jesus first in our church
affairs.
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2 |
We
affirm the freedom, joy,
hope and peace in Jesus that should characterize his church -
Gal 5:1, Phil 2:1 |
We
reject any form of
legalism, threat, or intimidation that incorrectly limits our
freedom in the Gospel.
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3 |
We
affirm the mission of
sharing the love of Jesus with all people in energetic and
innovative ways - 1 Cor 9:22 |
We
reject any insistence
that the Gospel is best shared through one particular cultural
form or tradition.
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4 |
We
affirm with joy the
diversity which Jesus has given his church - Rom 12:3-8 |
We
reject demands for
uniformity in matters not mandated in Scripture.
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5 |
We
affirm the power of the
Holy Spirit as the means of establishing and preserving true
unity in the church - Eph 2:14-22; 4:3-6. |
We
reject attempts to use
Synodical resolutions, dramatic statements, or institutional
mandates to coerce uniformity and exercise control.
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6 |
We
affirm that the full
range of God's gifts for ministry includes the pastoral office
and the priesthood of all believers - 1 Cor 12:12-31 |
We
reject insistence on
human traditions or regulations which unnecessarily limit any
legitimate use of God's gifts for ministry among pastors and lay
people, both men and women.
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7 |
We
affirm the necessity of
love, truth and integrity in our church relationships and
resolve to work for reconciliation and healing where necessary -
Eph 4:15,16 |
We
reject any injustices in
the relationships and procedures within the church.
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8 |
We
affirm the need to love
and respect the whole Christian church on earth - John 17 |
We
reject practices that
unnecessarily raise and maintain walls of separation within the
body of Christ.
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