Description
The association was not created to divide believers, and membership in it is not a condition of fellowship. The association is simply a legal structure created to enable member congregations to function in a coordinated manner for specific purposes. Our unity in Christ, however, is not generated by corporate organization or hierarchal structure, but is given by the Holy Spirit for us to maintain (Eph 4:3).
History
In December of 2006, the Atlanta Church of Christ completed a 2 year transformation from a single legal entity to an association of Congregations. This transformation was undertaken by the decision of the Atlanta Church elders in early 2004. This decision was based upon the sincere belief that continuing the unity of our fellowship, both within and between our various ministries, will be dependent upon keeping the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace, and not upon retaining any man-made organization.The idea of creating an association of congregations in Atlanta had its genesis in early 2004. It was the opinion of the elders at that time that one of the most effective and biblical ways to improve the spiritual health of the church was to identify additional leaders at the local level who could best meet the local needs of their members. Given our unique circumstances here in Atlanta, it was determined, after much prayer, advice, and thoughtful consideration, that the best way to accomplish this was to transform the Atlanta Church of Christ into an association of locally led, smaller congregations. This was a much studied and deliberate decision to place authority and responsibility for serving and shepherding our people closer to the members.