Moderate Apostolics 2

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Dear Bro. Starcher,

I have found this discussion enlightening, as we forge some 
qualitative definitions for such terms as 'moderate.'  I'm interested 
in just what you mean by fellowship with those outside of the 
Apostolic movement.  You seem to indicate that conservatives are 
often self-affirmed isolationists while moderates extend dialogue 
outside of their own community of faith.  However, I don't think that 
we can say that conservatives are not interested in reaching beyond 
the sometimes restrictive barriers that keep them cloistered. 

 I have often thought of Apostolics existing concentrically.  
'Fundamentalist Apostolics' remain at the core of the movement 
surrounded by more progressive Apostolics who may have greater 
contact with the 'other.'

As Apostolics, and I'm simply being honest here, I think we have a 
slanted view of dialogue and fellowship.  Fellowship with those 
outside of our movement is one-sided.  For instance, we would gladly 
send our choir, musicians or pastor to minister in a non-Apostolic 
Church but would never reciprocate the invitation.  I've played organ 
at some denominational churches knowing full-well that they would not 
even be invited to testify in my assembly.  I don't mind telling you, 
I feel a bit hypocritical about it.  I am NOT saying that Apostolics 
need to open their pulpits and choir lofts to those whom we consider 
to be outside of the Truth, but can we say we're interested in 
anything less than proselytisation otherwise.

I have been involved in what I consider productive dialogue on other 
non-Apostolics lists.  Each participant comes to the discussion with 
his or her predisposition about what constitues doctrinal truth.  
Of course, we generally leave those discussions with the same 
persuasions and without the establishment of much common ground.

However, I think it is important that we realise that even though 
non-Apostolics may reject our doctrinal stances, we can do a great 
deal to improve our image and their perception of Apostolics if we 
discuss our perspectives without an elitist attitude.

I think Apostolics, myself included, are somtimes guilty of believing 
that Bible truth re-crystallised with Frank Ewart and that there is 
nothing more that we can apprehend.  I'm not saying that there are 
extensive, doctrinal revelations to be had, but we should not operate 
on the premise that we have a mononoply on this great Truth.

I'm rambling now, but please, Bro. Starcher, explain your idea of 
fellowship outside of the Apostolic (conservative and moderate) 
movement.  Where do we draw lines?  How do we respond to the 
invitation of mutual fellowship?

All Honour to Christ Jesus.

Matthew Shaw