Separation

We believe that both churches and individual Christians are called to a life of separation from apostasy, sin, and worldliness, and that this separation is in at least three areas:

1. Ecclesiastical Separation: While recognizing the unity of all true believers, we believe that churches must maintain standards and guidelines of separation (II Cor. 6:14-7:1; II Tim. 3:5; Jude 3,4). Practically, this means we believe that local churches do not cooperate with ecumenical activities such as cooperative evangelistic campaigns or interdenominational services. We believe that these only cause the diluting of truth and the confusion of church members.
2. Moral Separation: We believe every Christian is called to a life of holy living otherwise referred to as moral separation (I Peter 1:16). Moral separation is accomplished by walking in obedience to God’s written will, which means following Biblical absolutes. In His Word, God has commanded all believers to walk in obedience to these absolutes, such as: not stealing, not committing adultery, not lying, etc. (Ex. 20:1-20; Col. 3:1-17).
3. Personal Separation: We believe Christians are called to a further area of separation, known as personal separation. This area is the practice of self-denial from things which are not sin (a violation of an absolute), but may offend a weaker brother (Rom. 14:1-23), or may bring reproach or dishonor to the cause of Christ. The following are four principles to guide in the area of personal separation:
   1. Expediency – Is it God’s best for me? (II Cor. 10:23)
   2. Enslavement – Does it bind or restrict me? (II Cor. 6:12)
   3. Edification – Does it build others? (II Cor. 10:23-24)
   4. Exaltation – Does it boast in God? (II Cor. 10:31)