Christian Churches and Churches of Christ - Separation From The Disciples of Christ

Separation From The Disciples of Christ

The separation of the independent Christian churches and churches of Christ from the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) (DoC) occurred over an extended period of time. The roots of the separation date back to a polarization that occurred during the early twentieth century as the result of three significant controversies. These controversies surrounded theological modernism, the impact of the ecumenical movement, and open membership (recognizing as full members individuals who had not been baptized by immersion). Theological modernism and ecumenism led to the development of a denominational structure within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The split occurred as local congregations refused to take part in rapidly developing extra-congregational organizations that eventually evolved into a General Assembly. They were also disturbed by what they saw as liberal influences within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) concerning Biblical criticism and social justice.

The official separation between the independent Christian churches and churches of Christ and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is difficult to date. Suggestions range from 1926 to 1971 based on the events outlined below:

• 1926: The first North American Christian Convention (NACC) in 1927 was the result of disillusionment at the DoC Memphis Convention.
• 1930s - 1940s: Symbolic differences and disagreements flourished. Institutional controversy develops. See also Sponsoring church and Churches of Christ (non-institutional).
• 1944: International Convention of Disciples elects as president a proponent of open membership
• 1948: The Commission on Restudy, appointed to help avoid a split, disbands
• 1955: The Directory of the Ministry was first published listing only the "Independents" on a voluntary basis.
• 1968: Final redaction of the Disciples Year Book removing Independent churches
• 1971: Independent churches listed separately in the Yearbook of American Churches.

Because of this separation, many independent Christian churches and churches of Christ are not only non-denominational, they can be anti-denominational, avoiding even the appearance or language associated with denominationalism holding true to their Restoration roots and firm conviction that Christ has founded only one church which is his body.