Our Position

W. Carl Ketcherside

[Page 16]

     We are subjected to constant censure because we grant so much space to brethren who are critical of our position. While some have stopped their subscriptions because of what we write, more have quit reading the paper because so much of it is given over to opposing brethren, whose writings, they say, are not edifying. We are unmoved in policy by these demonstrations of party spirit. All sides of an issue must be heard. None of us is perfect, none know all there is to know. We must learn from each other, and we can learn more from those who disagree, than from those who agree with us.

     We need to be fair, courteous, kindly affectioned to each other, forbearing one another in love. I have reached that state of spiritual maturity where I can love all of the brethren, even those in radical disagreement with my views. I do not base my love or fellowship upon absolute conformity to my personal ideas, so I shall not seek to harm, undermine, or in any manner hinder any one who does not see things like I do. I will discuss our points of difference, and set forth my position. If he cannot subscribe to it, I shall not hate him because he cannot, but by love, serve him in whatever capacity I may.

     We have been victims of the party spirit so long, that when brethren state opposite views, we immediately jump to the conclusion that we must side with one or the other. There is not a congregation on this earth where all the members see everything alike. Yet they work together! Why not allow those who write to this paper the same leniency which you accord your own congregation? It is not necessary that you "take sides" with any writer, certainly not with the editor. It would be dangerous for you to do so with the latter, because if I learn I am wrong, I will acknowledge it, and adopt the truth, regardless of what others may do or say, so you might be left in the lurch!

     I have resolved not to be a religious partisan! This is not a party journal. We are thankful when brethren see things as we do, we love those who do not just as much as ever. We need to grow up in Christ Jesus, get rid of our false standards, and learn that the great principles we hold in common are superior to the things on which we differ. In any event, love will be the only solution to our problems!

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