Congregationalism and the Color Line
THE Congregational Council had a very lively discussion on the color line. The colored churches of Georgia had representatives in the Council. Some Independent Methodist white churches also sent delegates and asked admission to the Council, as Congregationalists. But the record on the “color line” was doubtful, hence the discussion. They at last were admitted, and the Council affirmed the position (a sensible and Christian position) of Congregationalists once more by passing the following resolution:— “Resolved, That this Council re-affirms the historic position we conceive to be characteristic of Congregationalism always—the equality of all believers in Christ Jesus; and that we admit the before-named delegates of the Congregational Conferences in Georgia to membership in this body in the belief that they also stand with us on this ground, and in the expectation that they will use the uttermost of their endeavors at home to realize and manifest the fact in the promotion of organic union among all the Congregational Churches of that commonwealth.” “If ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.” “There is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free; but Christ is all, and in all.” Gal. 3:29; Col. 3:11. It is the meek that God will guide in judgment and teach his way. Ps. 25:9. He who comes to the word of God with a love of his own opinions, will pursue a vain quest. He may learn a part of the truth, but it will be superficial and one-sided; the fullness of truth lies unrevealed to him. If God should enlighten him, his selfishness would take all the glory to himself. “The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him, and he will show them his covenant.”