In order to enact the Discipline's call to 'doctrinal reinvigoration,' and to avoid schism and prevent mass exodus, we intend to form a Confessing Movement within the United Methodist Church. By this we mean people and congregations who exalt the Lordship of Jesus Christ alone, and adhere to doctrinal standards of our church. Dr. Harper, who participated and presented a paper at the gathering, has prepared the following article that contains his personal views on why he believes the UM Church needs such a movement. Unusual times require unusual actions. I sincerely believe we are at such a point in the history of the United Methodist Church.
Theological variations threaten to tear the fabric of an already-precarious pluralism.
Radical revisionists have openly declared their mission to substantially rewrite the faith, particularly regarding the person and work of Jesus. The fact is, there are a host of faithful and loyal United Methodists who believe we are at such a time. As a scholar, I know there are two sides to every issue. There are good and godly clergy and laity who are genuinely opposed to the Confessing Movement, fearing it will divide the church and be largely negative in its efforts. We must not ignore the fact that there are people who have sincere concerns like these, nor must we fail to learn from them when they have a word of edification.