The history of theological debate reveals the difficulty of this task and the tendency of all sides to violate the ideal along the way. The Confessing Movement is needed at this time to insure that the orthodox position is accurately advocated, and that caricatures by others do not go unaddressed. I would concede that orthodoxy is sometimes presented in these ways, but I contend that it is none of these things in its essence. The Confessing Movement is needed to hold others accountable for what they say regarding orthodox belief. The Confessing Movement is also needed to clarify the objectives of orthodox Christianity.
Caricature takes place here as well.
The Confessing Movement is needed to eschew such caricatures and to reflect the authentic concerns of this segment of United Methodist people. The Confessing Movement is needed because the caricature of critique can never be a solution. The Reality of Reform Basic sociology teaches that institutions are in a constant state of change. It also teaches that people who reject new paradigms are most often those who administer the institution. From my point of view, both the radical left-wing and conservative groups are trying to bring about change in the church.