THE PLEA FOR A RESTORATION
By Timothy Glover
Sidney E. Ahlstrom in his book, A Religious History of the American People, wrote a clear statement of the plea of the Restoration Movement. While some of the points need some clarification, they are in harmony with what the Bible teaches and marks the difference between the teachings of Christ and that of men. In 1829 the Baptists listed the “error” taught by the Disciples. Ahlstrom summarizes their charges:
1. They distinguish sharply between the old and New Covenants and hence abolish the law of Moses.
2. They hold conversion to be wrought through the word alone without any direct operation of the Holy Spirit...
3. They believe baptism should be administered on profession of belief that Jesus is the Christ, without examination of experience or consent of the church.
4. They believe that baptism procures the remission of sins and the gift of the Spirit. It is thus man’s obedience which can bring him within the purview of God’s electing grace.
5. They believe that none have a special call to the ministry and that all baptized persons have the right to administer the ordinance of baptism...
6. They believe that the Christianity of the New Testament is simple and clear, with no element of mystery or mysticism. Creeds and enthusiasm, which obscure this fact, are therefore not to be tolerated.
The first statement addresses the importance of grasping the N.T. teaching on the law. The O.T. is necessary in our understanding and provides important examples for our learning (Rom. 15:4), principles of truth stated in wisdom literature or applications drawn from the prophets. Yet, the law of Moses is abolished and nailed to the cross (Col 2:14 and with it the religious observance of the Sabbath, animal sacrifices, dietary laws and temple services, etc. Christ’s death has ushered in a new will or testament that replaced the old, making it null and void.
The only direct operation of the Spirit in the acts of conversion were associated with salvation indirectly. In some cases, the preacher receives the power of knowledge and revelation of God’s will, sees a vision or is told directly by the Spirit to do something in order to contact the sinner. The Spirit works through “earthen vessels” or human agency though which saving words might be spoken.
The third statement is supported by Philip and the Ethiopian. The only requirement was that he confess Christ. Philip did not judge whether or not he should be baptized. Human consent had nothing to do with the practice of baptism. I believe that baptism is necessary to have sins remitted. I don’t believe in baptism alone, however. Finally, Christianity is clear and simple in so far as salvation from sin and entrance into the kingdom is concerned.
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