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We believe that separation is a doctrine as well as a practice and that the separation principle runs through the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. We believe that true spiritual fellowship is the result of a common faith and practice. We believe there are four aspects of Biblical separation. Political separation - the separation of the local church from the state Personal separation - the separation of the believer from worldly pursuits that are in opposition to serving God. (Josh. 24:15; Eph. 5:15-18; I John 2:15-17; II Cor. 6:14-7:1; Titus 3:10; John 10:11). Ecclesiastical separation - the separation of the church from apostasy. Each local church is independent and autonomous and must be free from interference by any other ecclesiastical authority. We believe we are to reprove apostates rather than recognize them to rebuke rather than to reason with them, to reject rather than to receive or unite with them. This includes but is not limited to the World and National Council of Churches and the Baptist World Alliance. (II Cor. 6:14-17; II John 10-11;'II Tim. 4:2-4). Practical separation - the separation of the believer from an erring brother. We believe that we must separate from those who continue in disobedience to the Word of God, but with a desire for, and a goal toward, restoration of the believer to full fellowship. (II Thess. 3:6,14,15; Rom. 16:17; I Cor. 5:11). |