A decade ago I conducted written interviews with a number of veteran gospel preachers who had been preaching from 30-50 years or more. One of the questions I asked them was why has our brotherhood seen a decline in debating over the last thirty (now, forty) years or so? The overwhelming answer was similar to that of the late J. A. McNutt, who answered, “Some of our brethren were involved in debates where such an ugly spirit, and so much bitter wrangling occurred that such contests lost favor among the people. However, many notable victories for truth have been won in honorable controversy when conducted in the right spirit.”
     That debating , or public discussion, is an effective and Scriptural means of presenting truth and exposing error there can be no doubt. The apostle Paul said that he was “set for the defense of the gospel” (Philippians 1:17). Paul also said, “Men, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my defense which I make now unto you” (Acts 22:1). Paul knew that it was right to defend his position and to do so in a public forum. Consider also, such passages as 1 Peter 3:15 and Jude 3.
     In years gone by many noteworthy debates have occurred between Christians and the best antagonists that could be found among denominational churches. In recent years, however, it appears that what few debates are currently happening are taking place among brethren. Most controversies among brethren are probably best settled privately and with as little public display as possible. There are times, however, where debates between brethren are necessary. In Acts 15:1-7 the apostles and elders of the church in Jerusalem met for an open discussion of a controversial issue. It is  hoped that in all debates between brethren today, that no un-Christlike or unbrotherly spirit is manifested that would in any way cast the Lord's church in a negative light before the world.
     One  issue  that has generated considerable controversy in recent years is the question of local churches withdrawing fellowship from other local (apostate) churches. This is a question that perhaps few of us have looked into very deeply, and are not sure just how we should feel about it in light of New Testament teaching. There are strong feelings and good, doctrinally sound brethren on both sides of this issue.
     A debate on the question of congregational withdrawal of fellowship has been arranged between Holger Neubauer and John T. Polk, II. The particulars are given below. Please pray for this effort that the truth will be spoken in brotherly love (Ephesians 4:15), and that the truth will be obeyed by all who come under the influence of this discussion.—Dennis Gulledge, Co-editor.

RESOLVED:  The Scriptures teach that local churches must withdraw from apostate churches.
  Affirm: Holger Neubauer
  Deny:  John T. Polk, II

RESOLVED: The Scriptures teach that fellowship exists between churches of Christ only upon the basis of common or corresponding works which obey the Word of God.
  Affirm: John T. Polk, II
  Deny:  Holger Neubauer

Holger Neubauer is Tennessee Bible College Assistant to the President and gospel preacher for 17 years.

John T. Polk, II is a gospel preacher for 37 years and one of the elders of the Dover church of Christ in Dover, Tennessee.