John MacArthur's letter to Gary Ezzo

"....At this point I think the best approach to take for the sake of unity and to decrease the workload of everybody embroiled in this constant dialogue is to put these things to rest. I don't feel it's productive to debate over terminology but I do think we have to recognize what are the issues at hand. Let me summarize them:

1. We all agree on the doctrinal statement of GCC. I know you are honestly committed to that statement as expressed in What We Teach so in my mind we're not dealing with issues of foundational doctrine. I don't question your theology.

2. We're not dealing with an issue of motive. Everyone wants to serve the Lord as best they can and be as true to the Word as possible.

What we are dealing with is differences in understanding some applications of biblical truth, differences in terminology, a certain conflict over what is biblical and what is non-biblical (preferential). What is most important is that submission, love, forgiveness, humility, kindness and support prevail and I haven't always seen that on your part. Though the issues here are certainly between brothers who hold the same sound doctrine, it's really an old story, Gary. I'm still grieved about unkind statements, innuendos and sarcasm. All each of us can do is be certain our own heart is right before the Lord and all the rest will work out even with those with whom we have a disagreement.

You and Anne Marie have been a blessing to so many. Your teaching and material has so much to commend it and I trust with careful attention will become better so that it has even a greater impact. There's no desire on our part to be anything other than precise with Scripture and thus to honor the Lord.

Regarding what we sell at the Book Shack, I'm quite confident that if all the books there were subject to this level of scrutiny and held to the standard of what is required of pastoral staff members and elders of Grace, our shelves would contain fewer volumes. But we understand that there's good to be gained in those books with which we do not agree in every point. But when someone is an elder at Grace or a staff member and there is some disagreement, that creates a different issue. I think that's what we have been trying to deal with.

Also the whole transition to Stuart Scott's leadership from what was a strong profile as you've had is a difficult transition and when you add the whole scenario and other relational difficulties in which it appears that you and all the people in your ministry were pitted against church staff, it compounds the issue.

I received your resignation with a measure of regret but believe it is the right alternative. Let me encourage you to be continually supportive of our leadership as you now place yourself under the authority of the men the Lord has shepherding the flock here at Grace.

I love you brother and thank the Lord for you and Anne Marie....I want to see it be everything it can be and I don't want to burden you unnecessarily. At this point I think further dialogue might constitute unfair burdening. Carry on and expect that our staff will use whatever they feel is most beneficial....