To the Elders of New Life Church Re: Moving to the PCA
See letter dated December 8, 1989 to fellow elders at New Life Church concerning the prospect of moving to the PCA.
Jack gives three primary reasons for staying in the OPC:
First, it is possible to move it to the PCA will be fraught with uncertainty, pain, and strains in relationships with those who for any years have been fellow members of the OPC with us and in some instances long time, dear friends. That makes the move very painful.
Second, it might seem that there is more that can be done in the OPC to work through its problems and to go to the PCA would be to leave in the lurch those brethren who are seeking to fulfill the great commission in the OPC. It might even saying there is a need for a prophetic rebuke to alert the leaders and people of the OPC and it would appear that such correction could be offered more effectively from within the denomination. It's personally frustrating to leave without having dealt with some of the problems and I've seen progress in working with them. Is this the way of loyalty?
Third, there is fear of change itself. The PCA has its own problems, somewhat hours in the OPC and some associated with the Southern culture.
I took these matters before the Lord and by his grace became willing to stay in the OPC – if that is his will.
In prayer and meditation this week I found myself wanting to do almost anything to avoid leaving the OPC. I sought to cleanse myself from personal or prejudicial motivation and told him I was even willing to go through the pain of all the judicial conflicts which likely lie ahead of us if we stay in the OPC if it is his will for us to stay.
I was willing to sit down personally with the key figures who are moving in the opposite direction from us new life and enter into deep conflicts – And even considered pressing charges against them if that is warranted.
By grace I went further. It seems clear to me that if we stay in the OPC John and I must be willing to rethink our ministry priorities and job descriptions. Litigation in the OPC can really be time-consuming and drawn out.
I think this will be extremely unpleasant or at least very painful for the whole church.
Location: While Jack Is In Nashville