Un-denominating Christianity Restoration vs. Reformation

Reformation history 16th century Reformation Movement well known. Martin Luther nailed 95 theses to the door of Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany

What Is Reformation? Attempt to reform, or improve established religions. Results in even more division Does not unify or seek to return to original forms.

The churches of christ We are the result of a different approach. Not REFORMATION but rather RESTORATION has been our plea. We are attempting to restore in each generation New Testament Christianity.

The American Restoration Movement 19th century movement toward Christian unity by restoration. Led by people such as: Barton W. Stone, Cain Ridge Kentucky, 1801 – Presbyterian Thomas Campbell, 1807, Pennsylvania – Presbyterian Alexander Campbell, 1809, son of Thomas. Redstone Baptist, Mahoning Baptist

The American Restoration Movement Walter Scott, 1827, Mahoning Baptist Assoc., which dissolved during his tenure as minister, becoming known as “disciples”, “reformers”, and by their enemies, “Campbellites”. Stone/Campbell union in 1831 – similar platforms and pleas resulted in amalgamation. Others: John Wright (1819, Baptist); Christian Herman Dasher (1819, Lutheran);

Major Areas Of Concern Church polity – how was the church to be organized Salvation issues – primarily what constitutes baptism and how does one become a Christian. Association – How do individual congregations work together. Worship forms – Elements of worship and such things as instrumental music

Lasting Restoration Principles Speak where the Bible speaks and remain silent where the Bible is silent. Bible things in Bible ways. Bible things by Bible names. Thus saith the Lord Scripture only One un-denominated church

The Bible against division Division as apostasy 1 Corinthians 1:10 -- Now I exhort you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment.

Romans 16:17-18 Doctrinal purity “Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them. For such men are slaves, not of our Lord Christ but of their own appetites; and by their smooth and flattering speech they deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting

Divided We Fall Luke 11:17 – “But He knew their thoughts and said to them, ‘Any kingdom divided against itself is laid waste; and a house divided against itself falls.’” True of Satan, also true of the church.

One Loving Body Colossians 3:12-15 -- So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.

Heeding First Century warnings Galatians 1:8-9 --But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, he is to be accursed! As we have said before, so I say again now, if any man is preaching to you a gospel contrary to what you received, he is to be accursed!

One Faith Jude 3 – “Beloved, while I was making every effort to write you about our common salvation, I felt the necessity to write to you appealing that you contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all handed down to the saints.”

Holding Bible Traditions 2 Thes. 2:15 -- So then, brethren, stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught, whether by word of mouth or by letter from us.