· Vision and Communication
WE AFFIRM we are equals in Christ. We are called to be wise and gracious stewards of the gifts God has given each of us, not dominating or ignoring the other. We are willing to grant, earn, and appreciate respect rather than withhold it from others or demand it for ourselves.
· Strategic Differences and Interdependency
WE AFFIRM that we need each other to fulfill our callings and accomplish our purposes. Some of our cultural differences may seem to divide us, especially differing attitudes toward tasks and goals. But deliberately and prayerfully working through those differences in Christ can bring us into healthy interdependence and enrich our understanding of our Creator.
· Respect and Giftedness
WE AFFIRM that our God-given vision and calling is only part of God’s greater plan. He intends for each of us to cooperate with the other parts of Christ’ s Body, not dominate, undermine, or manipulate them. So we are free to communicate freely and clearly without half-truths or hidden agendas. Learn to trust God and each other, and at the same time to be accountable to God and to each other, taking care to understand trust and accountability within each other ’s cultural context. (2 Cor. 5:9–11)
· Learning and Flexibility
WE AFFIRM that each partner will need to be flexible and have a learner’s attitude. We are not just learning to partner for the sake of efficient accomplishment of our vision, but learning to love each other and to submit to the Lordship of Christ.
· Trust and Accountability
WE AFFIRM that we are accountable to Christ and to each other. Under his Lordship, we nurture our trust and mutual accountability, which are the inseparable essentials of our relationship.