History of the Institutional Controversy

Introduction

It is no secret that churches of Christ are divided today. Clear, distinct lines of fellowship have been drawn between brethren and their respective congregations. Why?  If possible, can the current situation be resolved? A growing majority of persons were not alive when these issues divided the church. Presently, many know very little or nothing on why there is division. Let’s reacquaint ourselves with history.

I.  Events From 1930-1939…

A.     80 years ago, churches of Christ were experiencing solid growth and development.

B.     It was a period of doctrinal harmony.

1.     The most pressing issue was the doctrine of premillennialism.

II. After WW2

A.     With Pearl Harbor and the outbreak of war, a new attitude different from the previous generation began to emerge.

1.     End of war: cooperative efforts in preaching began in Italy and Germany.

B.     After the war, awareness of the need of evangelism was widespread.

III. The Issues and the Arguments

A.     Many felt they were in competition with denominations

B.     Non Institutional Brethren insist:

1.     Heb. 8:5 – there is a pattern that must be followed.

2.     Acts 15 - That these "binding" patterns are expressed by (a) direct command; (b) apostolic example; (c) necessary inference

3.     Individual duties are many and can be carried out in a variety of ways.

4.     Congregational duties are somewhat limited. Consists of:

a)     Worship

b)    benevolence to needy saints

c)     Support of preachers who work spreading the gospel.

5.     Individual and congregational activities are not identical and can be clearly distinguished from one another.

6.     Evangelism was accomplished by individual preachers, self supported or compensated by congregations.

a)     2 Cor. 11:8-9; Phil. 4:15-18 - support was given without the aid of the sponsoring church system.

7.     The autonomy of the local church.

8.     The church is a spiritual institution with a spiritual function.

IV. The 1960's to Present

A.     Most of the arguments raised by conservative brethren are ignored.

B.     What we observe among institutional congregations today:

1.     A drifting from Bible centered preaching.

2.     Advancing the belief that the church of Christ is just one of many denominations.

3.     Doctrinal compromise and fellowship of those in religious error.

4.     Emphasis on the social gospel.

C.    50 years after the division, it appears that the breach that separates NI from I is unable to be crossed.

D.    Discussion of this issue is important.

E.     We need to encourage a spirit of learning among us. Look for opportunities for dialogue.