If they require agreement with sound doctrine as a condition of service, they are free to do so. Those who are excluded from service because of their refusal to subscribe to a summary of Scripture truth retain their freedom also. The churches and conventions do not seek to impose their beliefs on them. They do not seek to coerce them or injure them in their person, property or free movement. Confessions are necessary Creeds are not only legitimate, however, they are necessary to the unity, efficiency, cooperation and orthodoxy of the denomination.
Creeds express and promote unity of faith and practice.
We do not seek uniformity in all things, only agreement in those matters of doctrine and polity that our churches believe are essential to the gospel and to the integrity of the churches of Jesus Christ. Creeds promote the efficiency and progress of the denomination by promoting unity. Unity of faith and practice is the only solid basis for cooperation. Christ has given the churches a mission to proclaim good news news that includes such doctrines as the nature of God, the condition of humanity, God s means of rescuing sinners through the person and work of his Son, and the like. If we are to cooperate in our common mission, we must agree in the essential aspects of our mission and message.