We also need to be careful not to exaggerate the tendencies that existed and did have negative effects. Even in the most difficult periods of Friends, one can find remarkable examples of faithfulness and spiritual power.
Maintaining Unity Among Friends
Friends (Quakers) became a movement in the middle of the 17th century. While there were differences, and little groups that broke off from time to time, there was no lasting schism in the Society of Friends until the Orthodox/Hicksite split in most North American yearly meetings in 1827-28. Here are some factors (in no particular order) which seem to me to have contributed to the relative unity among Friends before that time:
- Fervency of Faith Conviction. The first generation of Friends was passionately convicted of the truth of the faith. If you didn't share that conviction, you would not join with them. If you did, you felt a very deep bond of faith with others who shared your faith understanding.
- Leadership - Recognition of Gifts and Ministries. Persons with particular gifts in spreading the Gospel, nurturing the faith community, and discerning the organizational needs of the movement were recognized and supported. While it was understood that God could speak and work through anyone, it was also understood that God fitted certain people for particular roles and functions. The discernment for the movement largely occurred in select meetings of people with particular gifts, and their leadership was accepted by the movement.
- Persecution. In many ways, early Friends were under attack. Large numbers were imprisoned, many had property taken away, some were physically attacked, and they faced other obstacles placed in their way by the larger society. They pulled together as God's faithful under attack from the Enemy.
- Distinct Culture. Friends were noticeably different from others, and were unified by different patterns of speech, different dress, and other distinguishing characteristics adopted because of their faith understanding.
- Patterns of Nurture. From quite early in the movement, patterns developed of nurturing the faith and religious work of the movement. There was extensive correspondence and intervisitation, including an active traveling ministry.
- Discipline. There was a strong sense of corporate discipline. Leadings were tested in the faith community, and not carried forth until affirmed and supported. Doctrinal and other important writings were submitted for approval. If Friends acted contrary to the group's faith understanding, and laboring with them did not bring change, they were openly declared as not a part of the movement.
Moving Away from Unity
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