GARBC

Now I want to discuss the two statements from the General Association of Regular Baptist Churches (GARBC) Council of Eighteen regarding separation and Cedarville University. Cedarville University has agreed to allow the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) to “recommend” Cedarville University to its people. The representatives of the GARBC chose to deny allowing Cedarville to set up a promotional display at the 2005 Annual Conference. Should the GARBC be in partnership with Cedarville University?

<sup>Discuss this article.

Link to statement on GARBC.org

Link to Council of Eighteen Member Listing</sup>

Preface

Biblical unity is a gift of God flowing from the Cross to sinful humanity as He brings people into relationship with Himself by the sovereign grace of God found in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:13–18; John 17:6). Fellowship among believers is rooted in the truth of the gospel of Christ (Ephesians 4:3–6) as they participate within the life of individual local churches. Unity is expressed as believers agree regarding the truth of the gospel of Christ (1 Timothy 1:3–5; 6:1–5; 2 John 1, 2, 9, 10). This fellowship functions at the level of individuals, individuals within a local church, and local churches with other local churches. The outworking of this fellowship may vary in these unique relationships. However, belief in the truth of God brings the resulting joy of fellowship with God and other believers (1 John 1:1–7).

Fellowship with God and with His children (both within a church and a church association) brings us to greater love for God and for one another. Further, fellowship with God—in our churches and among our churches—brings the joy of common pursuits guided by God’s truth.