The Apostolic Dialogue With Catholics 3

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[Bro. Starcher]:
>Good to hear from you Brother Matthew!
>
>You are right Brother Matthew.  I do believe that other Christians
>experience the reality of God's Salvation. Similarities do not imply
>identity.  I don't believe that the Apostolic experience of salvation is
>identical with that of other Christians.  In fact, in many cases, it is
>radically different.  At the same time similarities between Apostolics
>and other Christians can be a valuable tool for witnessing to the
>truthfulness of the Apostolic faith.


[Matthew]:
Yes, I had forgotten about your definition of salvation as an on-going,
reign of God process.  I do agree that complete salvation is a future event,
but I think we can live in a state of salvation through the conversion
experience.

Acts 2.38 isn't the graduation, however.  It is a component of our Christian
experience; and whilst I believe it is at the heart of personal conversion,
I also believe that it is only foundational and should not be perceived as a
completed obstacle course=)

[Bro. Starcher]:
>As I noted in my response to Brother Clifton, Brother Smith's isolation
>from greater Christendom is woefully apparent in his epistle by the
>stereotypical misrepresentations of Catholic beliefs.  As I proceed with
>my posts I hope to make this apparent.  Also, I would enjoy learning
>more of the "existing context" of the Bishop's epistle.  Please share
>your knowledge with us.

[Matthew]:
This isn't anything cryptic.  Bishop Smith and the AWCF are committed to
*Apostolic* unity.  This means, as I'm sure you know, that the organisation
is interested in the fellowship of Oneness Pentecostals who receive the
understanding of the mighty God in Christ and baptise in Jesus' name.  This
very fundamental commonality of Apostolics everywhere *is* the context.

The organisation is not, so far as I can tell, committed to any oecumenical
unity outside of the Apostolic movement.

Thanks for the response.

Blessings.

Bro. Matthew Shaw

All Honour to Christ Jesus.