An Introduction
by Rusty MillerA recent issue of Abundant Life featured an article commenting on a Bulletin Briefs article on parachurch organizations. Our article, by Mark Roberts, showed a direct correlation between such organizations and the sponsoring church arrangement as practiced by many of our more liberal brethren, including Jim Waldron, the writer of the Bulletin Briefs article. Brother Waldron then contacted Mark, challenging his assertions, and outlining debate propositions. However, when it came time to defend his position in debate, brother Waldron refused, instead asking Mark to debate Ben Vick. After numerous attempts to get brother Waldron to defend his own words, Mark finally relented and agreed to debate brother Vick. The debate, for which you see the propositions on this page, encompasses the entirety of this issue of Abundant Life. Please note: due to space limitations that both men agreed to 1000 word limits in their articles.
We think it is important to defend what we believe about the scriptures, and we hope that you will give careful consideration to all that is said here. This is not merely two brethren who disagree; this debate represents a fundamental difference in the application of God’s word. One position, as history has shown us, will lead one further down the road to apostasy, while the other clings tight to the New Testament pattern for Bible authority. Please read and study carefully.
The Proposition:
The scriptures authorize one church to send funds to another church for the purpose of evangelism or edification.
Participants:
Affirms: Ben Vick
Denies: Mark Roberts