THE CHRISTIAN AND ORGANIZATIONS through the education of Christians. But an analysis of our by-laws, the minutes of a dozen committees, and a study of decisions will quickly reveal that, though bathed in prayer, Biola is an organization set in motion and operated by men and women. At times it has stumbled, at times stood erect, but the mark of man is ever present. So, too, with other Christian organizations. Further, you do not enter Biola by the new birth as is the case with the body-church. You fill out forms, pay money, and fill out more forms. You need references, patience and a firm resolve that this is where Cod wants you. Also you must indicate that you are willing to live under the man-made regulations that effect the organization. Such is the case with most Christian organizations. A Christian organization can refuse you, dismiss you, and abuse you. In this most practical of ways, it is man's organization. Not even all believers are acceptable to the people who establish Christian organizations and set their governing policies. Perplexing to some Christians, perhaps, but so true. There are strong arguments to support an individual's right to form an organization and to seek to operate it as he or she believes God would have them operate it. But it would not necessarily follow that since it was started or run by Christians that it is thus Cod's organization and can do no wrong. How then does a Christian react to the many "Christian organiza tions?" Hopefully, without confusing them with the assembly of believers known as the "body." The Christian should acknowledge that, for example, a Christian college, is joined voluntarily. As with any man-made organization, it has participation requirements and humanly devised systems of operation and control. At times, these may parallel closely biblical patterns for the church-body, at times they will range far afield (e.g., no parking in Lot A without a green parking permit!) The Christian with a bent toward "greening" and a dislike for the pressure of man's organizations, may elect to drop out of the formal educational setting and the system of life that normally demands college degrees. But he must remember he is still a member of another organi zation that sets limits on how he goes about reacting and dropping out. As a believer in Christ and member of the body, he acts in accord with Paul's pattern for the body. Thus, the Christian has similar options and obligations with both secu lar and Christian organizations. Among some of the obvious advantages, however, in being connected with an organization set and controlled by Christians for basic Christian purposes are these two. First, with many
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