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THE CHALLENGE
In
the Spring of 2002, at an annual
conference of grace-oriented teachers,
pastors, and laypersons, Dr. Charlie
Bing gave an impassioned plea regarding
grace and missions. Specifically, he
observed when grace is the first on the
scene and is established, it takes deep
roots for a fruitful ministry. Dr. Earl
Radmacher then challenged those in
attendance to "do something". A year
later, nothing had been done.
CONSENSUS AND COORDINATION
Concurrent with the conference, Dr. Bing
organized a meeting of the same leaders.
It was generally agreed that there is a
need for an organization which can do
more to coordinate and promote the Free
Grace position throughout the United
States and the world. While many groups
are serving a valuable purpose, it was
the consensus of those meeting that
something different, but complementary,
is needed. Most grace-oriented
organizations have a purpose which
includes "promoting the clear
proclamation of God's free salvation
through faith alone in Christ alone".
This is a noble and appropriate focus,
and one rightly shared by many of us.
Leadership and connection, however, is
the missing ingredient in our efforts.
At the urging of a number of those
meeting, Fred Lybrand, a graduate of
Dallas Theological Seminary and Pastor
at Midland Bible Church (Midland, TX),
took up the Phase I role of coordinating
the effort and seeking to establish a
viable organization. In October 2003,
Fred Lybrand, Charlie Bing, and Dr.
Radmacher conferred to establish an
initial strategy for a Free Grace
Alliance.
THE
BIRTH
On November 17,
2004, an historic meeting in San Antonio
occurred where a like-hearted group of
leaders met and birthed the Free Grace
Alliance.
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