A classic on the history of the Stone-Campbell religious heritage. Written from the perspective of the acappella church of Christ member.

Issues which drove a wedge in the Disciples of Christ brotherhool are discussed in depth. At the root of the matter is the role of silence in Scriptures. Some took silence to mean "No" and others took it to mean "Expediency."

Hence, societies, use of the musical instrument in worship, paid clergy, sunday schools, lesson aids, and other "human innovations" were used as cause for division -- at the expense of Christian unity.

The author also discusses how social, political, geographic, and personality issues played major roles in the eventual division between Disciples of Christ and churches of Christ.

The index is skimpy, although this is a "must have" book for those interested in the history of the American Restoration Movement. ( )