THE CHURCH MUST BE KEPT IN WORK. Various churches are engaging in certain practiceswhich are not the work of the church at all. There is a prescribed work for the church outlined in theNew Testament and we are warned not to go beyond this. The only safe course in any field of religiousbelief or practice is to begin where the New Testament begins and end where it ends. Corrupt practices will destroy the purity of the church as quicklyas false doctrine.
Let us notice a few practices which characterizesome churches and constitute ah impurity. Theseare contributions to human institutions such as orphan or missionary societies; so-called fellowshipdinners; contributions to sponsoring church arrangements ; contributions to the Red Cross or UnitedFund, etc.; contributions to schools or colleges;maintaining kitchens, fellowship halls, or other facilities which are unrelated to church work; sponsoring ball teams, youth camps, youth rallies, or suchlike; and engaging in social functions of any kind;promoting pancake suppers, tea parties, chicken dinners and ice cream suppers. The list could be multiplied but these are some of the more prominentthings, and all or any of these constitutes an impurity in the work of the church. Some churches evidently think they have to engage in some of thesethings to survive. It has been said and I agree thatany church that has to be supported by pancake suppers, tea parties, ice cream suppers, and chickendinners, is as DRY AS THE PANCAKE, WEAK AS THE TEA, COLD AS THE ICE CREAM and DEADAS THE CHICKEN.
The work of the church is very simple. Paul saidthat the church is the pillar and ground of the truth(I Tim. 3:15). This shows a responsibility of thechurch to the truth. A number of churches supported Paul while he preached the gospel to others (II Cor.11:8).
Again, it is the work of the church to care for itsown destitute or needy members. In Acts 6 when the widows were being neglected in the daily ministration, they selected seven men to take care ofthe situation. This was done by the church. No outside help or agency was solicited or needed. Thechurch did its own work. Other examples of thesame nature may be found in I Cor. 16:1-2; II Cor. 9:12; and Acts 11:27-30.
The work of the church is also that of edifyingitself in love (Eph. 4:11-16). The building up of thechurch is by or through its own edification. No otherinstitution is to be employed for this task. This is awork of the church and it must be accepted and carried out by the church. Thus these three things —
(1) Support the preaching of the gospel, (2) Supplythe needed relief to its destitute members, and (3)Edify itself in love, constitutes the work of thechurch. Anything else constitutes an impurity andcorrupts the church.
THE CHURCH MUST BE KEPT PURE IN LIFE.
Paul said, "That he might present the church tohimself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkleor any such thing; but that it should be holy andwithout blemish" (Eph. 5:27). Paul said, "I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walkworthily of the calling wherewith ye were called"(Eph. 4:1). He also said, "I beseech you therefore,brethren, by the mercies of God, to present yourbodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God,which is your spiritual service" (Rom. 12:1). Againwe are taught, "Follow after peace with all men,and holiness without which no man shall see the Lord" (Heb. 12:14). Impurity in our living corruptsthe church.
Purity is the thing that God desires above all. God esteems purity above sacrifice. In I Samuel 15 wehave the record of king Saul and the people's attemptat sacrifice to please God. But Samuel the prophetsaid, "It is better to obey than sacrifice," and "Godhas more pleasure in obedience than he does insacrifice."
God desires purity over accomplishments. Those
in Matt. 7 that had cast out devils, prophesied, and
done many wonderful works in the name of Christ
will be turned away at the judgment for failing to
obey the pure gospel of Christ.
God esteems purity above peace. There can be no
peace where men corrupt the church of the Lord.
Read II Kings 9 and James 3:17. Let us keep the
church pure in all respects.
The following debates on tape may be obtained for $3.00 per reel — each reel contains one complete discussion for one night. These tapes are new 1 1/2 mil. Mylar (polyester) base, weather resistant, and recorded at 3 3/4 speed and can be played on any recorder using a 7" reel. Special orders on smaller reels at 1 7/8 speed made upon request.
MILLER-WOODS DEBATEMontgomery, Alabama
August 29-September 1 — Orphan Homes and Herald of
Truth.
Four reels— $12.00
MILLER-WALLACE DEBATE Tampa, Florida
August 16-20, 1965 — Orphan Homes and Herald of
Truth.
Four reels — $12.00
SPEARS-WADE DEBATEOklahoma City, Oklahoma
July 12-15, 1965 — Number of cups on Lord's Table and
Classes and women teachers.
Four reels— $12.00
BROCK-McWHORTER DEBATEChattanooga, Tennessee
October 25-29, 1965 — Cooperation of churches in Benev
olence and Evangelism and Orphan Homes. Four reels
— $12.00
GRIDER-TOTTY DEBATETompkinsville, Kentucky
September 27-30, 1965 — Orphan Homes and Herald of
Truth.
Four reels— $12.00
SPEARS -HALE DEBATE Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
March 28-April 1, 1966 — Herald of Truth and Orphan
Homes.
Four reels— $12.00
LITTLE ROCK DEBATE Little Rock, Arkansas
June 28, 29, 1966 — Creation and Evolution. (James D.
Bales and Jack Wood Sears vs. Dr. Carl Sagan, Dr.
Ernan McMullin, Dr. Thomas K. Shotwell, and Dr. R. C.
Lewontin). Questions from audience answered. Three
reels — $9.00
JOHNSON-WILSON DEBATESan Diego, California
June 28, 29, 1966 — Existence of God and the benefits of
religion.
Two reels — $6.00
NEEDHAM-THOMAS DEBATERussell Springs, Kentucky
April 21, 22,1966 — Women teachers and classes.
Two reels — $6.00
INMAN-WILLIS DEBATE
Parkersburg, W. Va.
September 19-23, 1966 — Herald of Truth and Orphan
Homes.
Four reels— $12.00
NOVEMBER ISSUE
The November issue of Searching the Scriptures will be largely devoted to a review of theMiller-Woods Debate in Montgomery, Alabama,and related subjects. Several have inquired aboutbundles of this issue for distribution in their area. These may be acquired at the price of$15.00 per hundred. We would like to have yourorder before going to press so that we mayknow how many to print of that issue.
BAPTIZED FOR REMISSIONAND HANGED FOR MURDER
L. A. Mott, Jr., Wayne, Michigan
Baptist preachers say "be baptized for (eis) remission of sins" (Acts 2:38) means because of aremission already obtained. Their usual illustrationsare: A man is (1) imprisoned for — because of — stealing or (2) hanged for — because of — murder.
It just so happens that their illustrations are eminently scriptural: Barabbas was cast into prisonFOR insurrection and murder (Luke 23:19,25).
This passage would serve as a remarkable confirmation of the Baptist view but for one small hitch
— but that one small detail wrecks their whole position. The preposition used in Luke 23:19,25 is dia — not eis as in Acts 2:38.
This proves (1) that the preposition which wouldbe used to say "imprisoned for murder" in Greek isdia — not eis; and (2) that if "baptized for remission" were parallel to such illustrations as "imprisoned for murder" Peter would have used dia — not eis.
A distinctive feature of the gospel is its teachingabout pride and its converse — humility. It is adesign of the gospel in providing for man's salvation to dethrone the mighty, the majestic, and toexalt the humble and meek. The Old Testament anticipated this and throughout it there is a condemnation of pride and a commendation of humility.The following verses will serve to illustrate thistruth:
"Pride goeth before destruction, and an
haughty spirit before a fall. Better it is to be
of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to
divide the spoil with the proud" (Prov.
16:18,19).
"A man's pride shall bring him low: but
honour shall uphold the humble in spirit"
(Prov. 29:33).
"For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also thatis of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spiritof the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones" (Isa. 57:15). When the Son of God came onthe scene, He began immediately to make humilitythe road to exaltation both by precept and example.As we look at the meaning and essentiality ofhumility, therefore, let us begin by defining the term.
THE MEANING OF HUMILITY
The pre-Christian significance of humility was,according to Trench in his work on New Testamentsynonyms, quite base. It had reference only to thatwhich was cowardly, weak, grovelling, and slavish.In the gospel, however, there is no reference to suchbase dispositions. The term in the New Testamentindicates "to have a modest opinion of one's self." Itis the "esteeming of ourselves small, inasmuch as weare so."
Now, while the gospel enjoins humility in our relationships with others, it especially demands that webe humble before God. This humility toward God (asdenned above) is simply the natural recognition ofour station and rank as compared to the majestyand dignity of Him who is our Maker. Furthermore,such humility involves (1) a confession of our sinfulstate, (2) recognition of our utter dependence uponGod and (3) a bowing in submission to the DivineWill.
This humility is what the Lord styled being "poorin spirit.""Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is
the kingdom of heaven" (Mt. 5:3). "Poor" in the passage indicates one who is reduced to beggary."Spirit" is a reference to man's inward disposition. The statement deals, therefore, with man's spiritual destitution, his moral poverty and helplessness, and his cognizance of the same. It bespeaks the man filled with humility. These compose
the kingdom of heaven! These enjoy the Lord'ssalvation!
THE ESSENTIALITY OF THIS GRACE
The essentiality of this grace is seen in the factthat it was:
1. A fundamental principle in the teaching of Jesus. We have noted His statement in Matthew 5:3. He enjoined upon his disciples the humility of littlechildren (Mt. 18:1-4), bade them refuse titles andhonor (Mt. 23:8-10) and condemned their seekingpositions of exaltation in their relationship as brethren (Mk. 10:35-46). Furthermore, the Saviorwarned against pride of social position (Lk. 14:711), pride of religious affiliation— self-righteousness (Lk. 18:10-14) and, allowing the statement of Johnthe Baptist, pride of race (Lk. 3:8). The cultivation of this grace of humility is, admittedly, extremelydifficult. Man is inclined to pride and delights in having his own way. Especially is this true of the rich,famous and/or talented. Not that there is any virtuein poverty, obscurity or inability; but these blessings, while increasing responsibilities, tend to produce feelings of self-sufficiency which too often drive out humility.
2. Exhibited in the life of the Master, Paul wrote:
"Let this mind be in you, which was also inChrist Jesus: Who being in the form of God,thought it not robbery to be equal with God:But made himself of no reputation, and tookupon him the form of a servant, and was madein the likeness of men: And being found infashion as a man, he humbled himself, andbecame obedient unto death, even the death ofthe cross. Wherefore God also hath highlyexalted him, and given him a name which isabove every name: That at the name of Jesusevery knee should bow, of things in heaven,and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess thatJesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God theFather" (Phil. 2:5-11).
The wonder of the Divine humility is revealed in themanger at Bethlehem, in the life of a working man inNazareth and on the rugged cross atop Golgotha.And if the picture is not yet obvious enough, there isthe clear-cut example of John 13 where Jesus washed the feet of the disciples. In verses 14-16 He observes:
"If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet.For I have given you an example, that ye should doas I have done to you. Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his Lord; neither hethat is sent greater than he that sent him." Certainly the lesson here taught is one of humility!
- Characteristic of the apostles. At first theydesired to be "greatest." But notice them later;when the full significance of the risen Lord and Hisgospel dawned upon. Consider Peter at Solomon's porch (Acts 3:12), the same apostle before the house of Cornelius (Acts 10:25,26) and the beloved Paulin the presence of the idol worshippers of Lystra(Acts 14:14,15).
- The clear statements and commandments of truth concerning humility which have been deliveredunto us by the inspired men of God. Statements of
the Lord have already been discussed. Examine,
also, the following:"I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord,beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocationwherewith ye are called, With all lowliness andmeekness, with longsuffering, forbearing oneanother in love . . ." (Eph. 4:1,2)."But he giveth more grace. Wherefore hesaith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth graceunto the humble. Submit yourselves thereforeto God" (James 4:6,7)."Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one toanother, and be clothed with humility: for Godresisteth the proud, and giveth grace to thehumble. Humble yourselves therefore under themighty hand of God, that he may exalt you indue time . . ." (I Pet. 5:5,6).There can be no denying that the New Testamentenjoins humility upon those who would be loyal followers of the Lord Jesus Christ. Heaven is dependent upon our humbling ourselves before God.
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A CONFUSED CATHOLIC AND THE PELICAN
The Tablet, a Catholic newspaper, published in theinterest of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn(N.Y.), regularly contains a column entitled, "TheQuestion Box," whose replies are written by a priestnamed Raymond J. Neufeld. In the issue of September 24, 1955, a Catholic adherent asks:
"Of all the symbolism used in the Church(Roman Catholic. L.W.M.), the pelican confusesme. What significance has this bird in any doctrine of our Faith?"
ANS. "The pelican is supposed to wound herselfwith her beak in order to feed her young withher blood. Therefore, she has been chosen inChristian symbolism to typify the Atonement,Our Lord's shedding His Blood and the Redeemer, Who gives us His Blood for the nourishment of our souls.
"St. Thomas, in his beautiful hymn to the Eucharist, the 'Adoro te,' addresses Our Lordthrough this symbolism as 'Pie pellicane' orHoly Pellican, begin that He wash our uncleanness with His Blood."
The Bible, in symbolic language, speaks of Christas the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David .." (Rev. 5:5). He is also referred to, as the Lamb ofGod, which taketh away the sin of the world (John1:29). But a "pelican" as a symbol of Christ, is ofman's imagination.
In catalogs showing Catholic religious articles andvestments, you can find such items as "BenedictionBurses" with "Pelican Design."
The Catholic Dictionary, edited by Attwater, statesunder the heading entitled;
"Pelican in her piety,or vulning herself. The
heraldic way of expressing an image of a pelican
wounding herself with her beak in order to feed
her young with her blood, used in Christian sym
bolism to typify the Atonement and our Lord as
redeemer and given of the Blessed Sacrament"
(page 376).
Even this absurd use of the pelican as a symbol ofChrist's atonement, is based upon the Roman Catholic distortion of Bible truth. With Roman Catholicism, the offering of Christ's blood MUST BE ACONTINUING thing, in order to fit in with theirconcept concerning the "real presence" in the "Mass"and the doctrine of Transubstantiation.
The Pelican, in feeding her young, is engaging ina continuing process . . . while the sacrifice of Christupon the cross, occurred only ONCE. Therefore, inpoint of time, Christ died ONCE . . . shed His bloodonce . . . ;while the pelican engages in wounding herself throughout the feeding period of her young.Consequently, this Roman Catholic symbol just failsto properly fit the inspired biblical record of Christ'ssacrifice.
The Apostle Paul wrote to the congregation inRome and stated concerning Christ: "For in that hedied, he died unto sin once. . ."(Rom. 6:10) : In thepreceding verse, Paul wrote: "Knowing that Christbeing raised from the dead dieth no more; death hathno more dominion over him." Yet, Catholicism holdsthat Christ is offered daily in the sacrifice of theMass.
The Hebrew writer said: ".. . we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all" (Heb. 10:10). "So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many..." (Heb. 9:28). "Nor yetthat he should offer himself often, as the high priestentereth into the holy place every year with blood ofothers; For then must he often have suffered sincethe foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself" (Heb. 9:25-26). "Neither by theblood of goats and calves, but by his own blood heentered in once into the holy place, having obtainedeternal redemption for us" (Heb. 9:12). The pelicansymbolism of Catholicism nullifies each and every one of the above given Scripture references.
The Catholic doctrine of the "Real Presence" was defined by the Council of Trent (1545-1563 A.D.) as .. . "in the Sacrament of the Eucharist the body andblood of our Lord Jesus Christ together with his soul and divinity are contained truly, really and substantially, and not merely in sign, figure, or virtue"(Catholic Dictionary, page 418). "The Real Presenceis effected by Transubstantiation" (Ibid, page 418).
The Catholic doctrine of Transubstantiation was also defined by the Council of Trent (1545-1563 A.D.)as "the wonderful and singular conversion of thewhole substance of the bread into the Body of Christand of the whole substance of the wine into the Blood, the species of bread and wine alone remaining" (Catholic Dictionary, page 499).
If you wonder what the Catholic means when hesays . . . "the SPECIES of the bread and wine aloneremaining," the expression "species" is also definedby the Catholic Dictionary as "The accidents of thebread and wine (colour, taste, smell, quantity, etc.)
which remain after the substance has been converted into the Body and Blood of Christ in the sacramentof the Eucharist" (Ibid., page 471).
It is a combination of such man-made doctrines as those described above, that permits the idea of apelican to symbolize Christ... a Christ, according tothem, who is offered over and over in the "sacrificeof the Mass" . . . whose literal body and blood is reallypresent in the interior of every Roman CatholicChurch edifice in the world, at the time of the celebration of the Eucharist.
The Pelican... An Abomination (Lev. 11:13-18)
As long as Catholicism was evolving a tradition onthe subject of fowls, one would think that the OldTestament commandments would at least be respected as regarding abominable and unclean birds."And these are they which ye shall have in abomination among the fowls; they shall not be eaten, theyare an abomination: the eagle . . . the vulture . . . the swan . . . the pelican . . . the stork . . . the heron, etc." (see Lev. 11:13-18). Also Deut. 14:12-18.
Of course, the above instructions were given tothe children of Israel, and as such, are not directedto Christians. However, inasmuch as Roman Catholicism has seen fit to add books to the canon of the Old Testament, even though the Jews had had it severalcenturies in the same form and canon as it is received today by non-Catholics, one would expect the RomanChurch to abide by the Old Testament laws, since sheconsiders its canon worthy of latter-day alteration.
Searching The Scriptures is a religious publication, devoted to the study of God's word. It is owned by H. E. Phillips and James P. Miller, editors, with an average circulation during the past twelve months of 5,401 per month. H. E. Phillip s is managing editor. The subscription price is $3.00 per year.
MY VISIT TO CHICAGO NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
Last October, en-route to a gospel meeting inCleveland, Ohio, I had an opportunity to spend aboutthree hours visiting the Chicago Natural HistoryMuseum. This museum has 17 acres of floor space,attracts over one million visitors a year and is regarded by specialists as one of the four great museums in the world. It was established in 1895 as the Columbian Museum of Chicago but from 1905to 1953 was called the Field Museum of Natural History, since much of its growth and success was dueto millions of dollars being given to it by MarshallField. The museum was housed in its present beautiful building of Georgia marble in 1920 after fiveyears being spent in its building. The present building was opened to the public May 2nd, 1921 and is amassive edifice, 706 feet long, 438 feet wide, and 105feed high, involving 3 levels, and is divided into 47different "halls."
While on my tour, I made careful observations ofthe various exhibits and copied down many statements found on and in display cases. I also securedquite a number of leaflets and cards which explainthe museum, the various sections and their displaycases. I also purchased two good-sized booklets themuseum has prepared to "enlighten" its visitorsrelative to these things. One booklet, "One BillionYears At Our Doorstep," hereafter designated"white," and the other, "General Guide — ChicagoNatural History Museum," hereafter designated"green," shall be quoted at some length in this andseveral other articles to show the complete "Evolutionary" bias of the people who built, molded, formedand arranged the exhibits and display cases in thismuseum as they, supposedly, set forth the beginning, record and history of the Universe, the World,Life, Man, etc. These articles will set forth my observations and reflections regarding what I saw,read, and heard during and since my visit to this museum.
The Dogma of "Evolution" with common descentand ancestry has been defined in various ways butbasically there is little difference between any ofthem. It means that all living form and beings, including man, share a common origin and ancestry;that man and the lower animals all "evolved" from a one-cell creature or bit of protoplasm; that mancame into existence via the animal route and, in thepast was something other than a human being; manis the highest order of an evolutionary process thatinvolved and included a fish (and other forms ofmarine beings), amphibian, reptile, mammals (suchas ape and gorilla), etc. Although most evolutionistsdisclaim the position that man descended directlyfrom the monkey or gorilla, most all of them saythey are close relatives, due to descending from thesame family. More in the next issue.
THE NEED FOR ELDERS TO BE INFORMED
God's order is that in every church there shouldbe a plurality of men to serve as elders of the congregation (Phil. 1:1; Acts 14:23; Acts 20:28).Thesemen have the charge of tending the flock of Godamong them (Acts 20:28; I Pet. 5:1-4). Paul toldTitus that elders were to hold "fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be ableby sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince thegainsayers" (Tit. 1:9). There has been false teachers in days gone by and there will be false teachersamong the children of God today (II Pet. 2:1-2). Elders are charged with the care and protection ofthe flock against these false teachers.
Error will present itself in various forms amongthe children of God. One time it may be Premillennialism and another time institutionalism. Children of God will be taught error concerning the nature ofthe Godhead and at another time the error of the Baptist church concerning the establishing of thechurch. At another time false teachers will arise teaching their doctrine concerning marriage anddivorce, while at some other time they will teacherror concerning the Lord's Supper. In order for theelders of the flock to be able to handle these and other matters of false doctrine, they must be informed on what is going on in the religious worldas well as the Lord's church. They need also to studythe Bible daily so as to be prepared at all times tobe able to expose the false teachers who would leadthe church astray. The fact that we are the Lord'speople does not guarantee us that we will not havefalse teachers to arise among us, yes, even amongthe eldership, itself (Acts 20:28-32). Elders need tobe informed as to what arguments the false teacher is making on institutionalism and to know what passages in the word of God to use in answering theerror. They should study the passages of Premillennialism so as to show how these false brethren pervert them. They should keep themselves informedas to the very work of elders as from time to timefalse doctrine arises here. Some have arisen in the church teaching things which they ought not aboutmarriage, divorce, and remarriage, and elders needto know what is being taught so as to be able to instruct the congregation in the truth along theselines. Information is needed by elders in order toguard the flock of God as God would have those menserving as elders to do.
Elders need to inform themselves what the Bible teaches children of God to do in order to serve the Lord. Elders are to watch for the souls of the sheep(Acts 20:28; Heb. 13:17). From time to time elderswill see those under their charge engaging in thingsthat will lead them away from the Lord into eternaldestruction. Elders need to know what the Bible teaches will lead one away from the truth and when evidence of such is shown, go to that individual andteach them what the Bible says about this matter.If elders have not studied the Book themselves, theycannot know what is required and consequently theywill not be able to see the Lord's teaching in orderthat they might teach others. There will be timeswhen elders will see certain ones forsake the assembling of themselves together with others of likeprecious faith. When such is done, they will need togo to them and encourage them to be steadfast inattendance. Elders will see brethren become stingyand they will need to go and teach them to give oftheir resources according to their ability as the Lordhas taught them. Elders will see the zeal of somecool down for teaching the lost and it will becometheir duty to encourage them to go and tell othersthe gospel story. Elders from time to time will seesome soul become discouraged in the service of theLord and want to quit. It will be necessary for them to go to that one and encourage them to remain infaithful service to the Lord that they might besaved.
There will be times when one brother has wrongedanother. Failing to win his brother as he carriesout Matt. 18:15-18, it will become necessary to bring this matter before the church. Elders need to know what the will of the Lord is in any circumstanceand be able to point it out to those in the wrong,keeping in mind to do nothing by partiality (I Tim.5:23). Often the very one that a brother will ask togo with him to see a brother who has done himwrong will be an elder. If not, certainly when suchdoes come before the church, the elders must dealwith the matter in keeping with New Testamentteaching. Sometimes one will show malice, hatred,anger, and envy. Elders need to inform themselvesconcerning the Bible passages that, deal with thesematters and be able to point them out to the oneguilty of these sins so as to turn them in the direction of salvation. How much grief could have beenavoided if elders would have in a given situationtaken the word of God and gone to the individual inerror and pointed it out to the saving of his soul. Ifelders do not inform themselves they can not accomplish this God-given task.
The unity of a congregation is a vital matter.Elders need to inform themselves of the verses that show the necessity of a united church. They havethe charge of overseeing the church so as to keep itunited and working toward accomplishing the mission given by the Lord. Often churches come to thepoint of division. If elders have informed themselves in the word of God, they will be in positionto show the congregation the attitudes required ofthe Lord so as to maintain the unity of the church. How often a church could have been spared theshame of division if the elders had been informed and had got to work at once on the matter.
Sometimes elders find themselves divided. If each is informed concerning the will of God and each iswilling to esteem the other elders better than himself, Phil. 2:1-5, how often could they work personalmatters out to not only the salvation of their soulsbut the unity of the church. This is one of the problems that elders face from time to time and theyneed to inform themselves about New Testament teaching so that they can maintain the love andrespect for each other and at the same time the unity of the church.
Yes, there are grave matters that come up beforethose godly men known as elders in the New Testament and they need to inform themselves of what ishappening in the land that they in turn might beable to watch over the charge given them by theLord. If elders had been informed as they shouldhave been, many of the disappointments of recentyears would have never taken place. But becausesome elders had not taken the time to inform themselves both as to what was happening among thechurches and also what the Bible said about these matters, when the time came for teaching they wereneither interested in such teaching not able toadminister it.
When an eldership is taught, the church willmake progress; when the elders are not informed,the church will go backward.
PRIMITIVE BAPTIST DOCTRINE
We now pay attention to use of the world in several passages of Holy Scripture. John 3:16, "ForGod so loved the world that he gave his only begottenSon that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life." John 3:17, "God sent nothis Son into the world to judge the world; but thatthe world should be saved through him." John 17:14, "I have given them thy word; and the world hatedthem, because they are not of the world."
1. Who is the "them" to whom Christ gave God'sword; and who is the "world" that hated "them"?Who are the "they" who are not of the "world"?
John 12:31, "Now is the judgment of this world:now shall the prince of this world be cast out."
1. Who is the prince of this "world"? Who is this"world" that God loved? "Now is the judgment ofthis world." Who is this "world"? "The prince of theworld" shall be cast out. What "world" did Christ come to save?
I John 5:19, "The whole world lieth in the evilone."
1. Who is the "world" in this passage? Who is the"evil one" in this passage? Is the "evil one" of thispassage the "prince of the world"? (John 12:31). Isthis the "world" out of which the Lord's discipleswere chosen? John 15:19, "I chose you out of theworld."
John 12:47, "I came not to judge the world, but tosave the world."
1. Christ came to save the world. Christ came to save the lost. "For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost" (Luke 19:10).Therefore the world was lost. If the "world" he came to save was the elect only, then the non-elect werenot lost, they did not need to be saved. Again, Christ came to save the world, John 12:47. Christ came tosave the lost, Luke 19:15. But he came to save the"elect only," Cayce. But Christ came to seek and save sinners, I Tim. 1:15. Therefore the "elect only"were sinners. It follows then that the "non-elect" were not sinners. Therefore, according to PrimitiveBaptist Doctrine, the non-elect did not have to besaved from sin.
Is the "world" God loved the "elect only"? Willsome of the elect be damned? John 3:16, "For God soloved the world, that he gave his only begotten son,that whosoever believeth on him should not perish,but have eternal life." If the "world" in this passage,the "world" that God loved — the elect only? Then,Christ came to save them, the elect, only. But hesaves only those who believe, only those who believewill have life. Therefore, belief is a condition of lifeto the elect world. But disbelievers are condemned — will be damned. It follows then that those of the "elect" world who do not believe will be damned. If those of the "elect" world who do not believe will be damned, what will become of those of the non-elect world who do not believe?
I John 5:19, "The whole world lieth in the evilone." God loved the world, John 3:16; the wholeworld lieth in sin, I John 5:19, so if God's love alonesaved then the whole world will be saved. But all will not be saved. Matt. 25:46, some will go into eternal punishment. Therefore God's love alone does notsave. But God does save those who obey him, Heb.
5:9. Therefore salvation is not unconditional.
THE POWER OF ONE FAMILY
Curtis E. Flatt
P.O. Box 1166, Florence, Alabama 35631
Men frequently write articles about people whohave contributed much to the Lord's cause. There is one family at whose accomplishments I have oftenmarveled. These people were from Pontus in AsiaMinor. They had lived in Italy and had been deportedfrom there. They were living in Corinth when firstrecord of them is found. Of course, I refer to Aquillaand Priscilla.
It was at Corinth where Paul met them. They,like Paul, were tent-makers. They worked with Paulat Corinth. Paul lived with them during this time.For some reason, after several months, they leftCorinth with Paul when he sailed to Ephesus. Theyremained in Ephesus when Paul journeyed to Jerusalem. At this time nothing is revealed about theirreligion. However, soon after their separation fromPaul, they began to demonstrate the depth of theirChristianity.
KNOWLEDGE, COURAGE, AND WISDOM
At Ephesus, when a preacher came knowing onlythe baptism of John, they were quick to teach himthe whole truth. There is no indication that Aquillaever stood in a pulpit. Nothing is known of his formal training. It is not known how he learned whathe learned. But he and Priscilla knew the truth and did not hesitate to face Apollos even though theyknew they were facing an eloquent man who wasmighty in the scriptures. Not only did they manifestknowledge and courage, but they also used greatwisdom, for they neither created a scene nor raiseda big squabble over this but took Apollos unto themand taught him more perfectly the way. There is noway of knowing how many people they guided intotruth by showing Apollos the way.
DEDICATION AND PERSEVERANCE
We do not know how long these people remainedin Ephesus. Some time later, they were still therewhen Paul wrote the first epistle to the Corinthians.In his farewell scenes of the epistle, he sent greetings from Aquilla and Priscilla and from the churchin their house. Whether it was the Ephesian churchwith which we are acquainted or another which hadbeen established, we know not. But they had achurch meeting in their house. Such shows theirdedication to the Lord's cause. This is not unheard of today and while it may or may not be the bestplan, it does show that it is not necessary to havean impressive meeting place and strong backing fordedicated people to establish a church.
By the time Paul wrote the epistle to the Romans,Aquilla and Priscilla were back in Rome. Andstrange as it may seem to many, they had a churchmeeting in their house there, also. Wherever theywent, soon a church existed. It would take but afew families like this scattered over the country tomake us again sing:
"The Kingdom is spreading, Oh, tell ye the story,
God's banner exalted shall be!
The earth shall be full of his knowledge and glory,
As waters that cover the sea!"
One of the highest commendations in the Bible ispaid to this family. "Greet Priscilla and Aquilla myhelpers in Christ Jesus: Who have for my life laiddown their own necks: unto whom not only I givethanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles"(Romans 16:3,4).
CONGREGATIONAL COOPERATION of the CHURCHES OF CHRIST by
H. E. WINKLER
A well arranged and documented book of 158 pages dealing with church sponsorships, centralized power and control, orphan homes and Herald of Truth. Diagrams and charts help emphasize the truth.
$1.00 per copy order from PHILLIPS PUBLICATIONS
P. O. Box 17244Tampa, Florida 33612
NOTICE Have you renewed your subscription? If
not, do it today!
When we go back and take a look at the UnitedChristian Missionary Society, we see an institutionbuilt with a noble purpose. Men saw the need ofpreaching the gospel in the most effective way to getthe job done. They began to look for a more effective way to do the job than to do it like the apostles andother disciples did it in the early church. Instead ofwalking by faith and accepting the pattern as givenby the Lord, they began to reason by human wisdom.This led to an apostasy over the United ChristianMissionary Society.
Let us take a look at another departure by thereasoning of man. Concerning infant baptism, it isassumed by some that there were infants baptized inthe household of Lydia and the Jailor. They reasonthat in any household there must be infants and thus come to the conclusion that infant baptism is taughtin these examples. In neither case does the Biblemention an infant. Other scriptures bear out thefact that infants are not subjects of baptism. If wewill just take the word of God by faith and leave offhuman reasoning we will have no trouble on thispoint.
In recent years many in the church have seen aneed of caring for homeless children. So they beginto reason that the Lord told us to care for them and we must build and maintain places in which to dothis work. Since this is a problem to which we areall related we will take the money from the churchtreasury for this purpose. It seems never to enterthe minds of many to ask what does the Lord sayconcerning the care of those in need. If we are towalk by faith not by sight, we must workaccording to what the Lord says, not according towhat he does not say. If we have no scripture thatauthorizes us to use money given to the Lord, in this way, it is not by faith.
Then there are the sponsoring churches and elderstaking the oversight of works other than the workof the church among them. Many reason that this isthe best way, since some governments require somechurch to stand good for a man in the Lord's work on foreign soil. Can this be done without doing the workin a different way from what the Lord authorized?Where does the Lord authorize churches to pool theirresources to do any work of evangelism? If the Bibledoes not teach this plan, it is not of faith, since faith comes by hearing the word of Christ.
Does the idea that an unmarried man can serve as an elder come from the word of God or from human reasoning? I have heard the argument made thatPaul was not married, he laid his hands on Timothy to bestow the gift of God (II Tim. 1:6), but Timothyreceived the gift by the laying on of the hands ofthe presbytery (I Tim. 4:14), therefore, Paul, anunmarried man was an elder. Nowhere does the Bible say that Paul was an elder. It does say abishop is to be the husband of one wife (I Tim. 3.2).
It seems to me that one must use human reason instead of faith to reach this conclusion.
There is also the teaching that a person who isguilty of fornication and has been put away maymarry again. If they obey the gospel after theymarry they need not put away their partner. Whereis the scripture that shows God's approval of sucha union? Matt. 19:9 gives the innocent party a rightto marry another but condemns the guilty if theymarry another. To say it would be hard for one tolive alone the rest of their lives, is to revert tohuman reason. As members of the body of Christwe are to live by faith.
I have heard many try to justify a Christian taking human life in time of war. I have yet to see apassage of scripture that would authorize such. Oneexample given is Cornelius. He was a Roman soldier,and the Bible does not say he quit his job when hebecame a Christian. Neither does it say he ever wentto war or took the life of his fellow man. This is like the household of Lydia having infants, it does notdeal with the subject, but rests on the silence of thescriptures. If the government had commanded Cornelius to kill his fellow Christians, would this havemade it right for him to do so? Let us rest our hope on what the Bible says instead of the silence of thescripture. As one man said concerning a man livingin an adulterous state, continuing to do so after baptism, all we need is the passage that authorizes it.
The latest to come to my attention is the idea ofthe local church not being an organization. Somehave made light of calling the church "it" as thoughthere was a body or unit of some kind involved. Theapostle Paul spoke of the church as one body (I Cor.12:14, 20). He also said "Ye are the body of Christand severally members thereof" (I Cor. 12:27). Alsoin Eph. 5:27 he said "it should be holy and withoutblemish." Then in I Tim. 5:16 Christian individuals are told to care for their own and "let not the church be burdened; that it may relieve them that arewidows indeed." If the church is only the individual,then this verse does not make sense. Much human wisdom and reasoning must be used to conclude thatthe Lord taught many things being taught today.Are we trying to follow the Lord in His way, byfaith, or our way, by worldly wisdom?
Many other things could be studied under thisheading such as, such sponsored recreation, churchsocials, instrumental music in worship, Herald ofTruth, and many other things found among churchesof Christ. Let us keep open minds to receive truthyet guard our minds against error. "For withoutfaith it is impossible to please God "(Heb. 11:6).
BOOKS BY W. CURTIS PORTER
Quibbles That Backfired— Contains three sermons at Florida College several years ago. These are outstanding denominational arguments that Porter turned on his opponent. Hehad a large number of debates with all sorts of falseteachers.
Price — $1.00
Sermon Outlines, Volumes I & II — Sermon outlines W. Curtis Porter used through the years of his preaching.
Price — $2.00 Set of 2 vols. — $3.75
THEY REHEARSED ALL THAT GOD HAD DONE WITH THEM . . ."— Acts 14:27
Harry Pickup, Sr., Tampa, Fla.— The MacDill Avenue church in Tampa, Florida is in need of apreacher. Anyone interested may contact me at: 116Greenfield, Temple Terrace, Florida 33617.
Donald R. Givens, 1309 Chase, Novato, Calif.—In recent weeks at Novato we have had three baptisms and other additions with Christians movinginto our area. If you are being transferred to Hamilton A.F.B. or have friends there, please contact us.The church meets at 807 Grant Avenue. Our next gospel meeting will be November 2-9 with brotherTed Beever preaching.
B. J. Thomas, Box 705, Haynesville, La. — I am in my seventh year with the church in Haynesville, Louisiana. Progress continues to be made and thework continues in peace and harmony. Sunday fourwere baptized. The church has five elders and theirgood work is much appreciated. We are glad to havea part in the support of three other preachers: brother James Beech, Jr. who preaches in Magnolia,Arkansas; brother Leo Christ, Jr. who preaches inBossier City, Louisiana; and brother Keith Sharpwho preaches in El Dorado, Arkansas. Besides this,the church is doing a lot of radio work over KLUVin Haynesville. Brother Leonard Tyler was with us in our spring meeting and brother Ward Hoglandwas in a meeting with us in August. We had a number of additions in these meetings.
G. R. Wheeler, 202 Main St., Leesburg, Fla. — A new congregation will begin meeting here Oct. 2, at610 West Dixie Avenue. Anyone desiring information can write P.O. Box 851 Leesburg, or to me direct. This congregation is known as the centralchurch of Christ, Leesburg, Fla.
E. Paul Price, 404 Bandera, Dr., Tyler, Texas — Since July eight have been added to the membershipof the Garden Valley Road church. Two have beenbaptized, and six have identified with us. On thedates of September 26th through October 2 brother
L. R. Hester from Henderson, Texas was with us ina meeting here.
September 5th through 8th Elmer Moore and Ronny Wade were engaged in debate in Fredrick,Oklahoma. Discussed were cups, classes, and womenteachers. The discussion was of the highest orderand it is believed that much good was accomplished.This debate will be available for you to order fromPhillips Publications, P.O. Box 17244, Tampa, Florida 33612, and I recommend that your money willbe well spent to secure the tapes of this discussion.
On July 1st through August 7th I preached in ameeting for the church at Teel, Texas. Good crowdsand interest was manifested during the meeting.Even though this is a country church eleven different preachers visited with us during the meeting,which was most encouraging.
Ules G. Reid, Jr., 400 Enslen Circle, Hartselle,Ala. — Recently, we made the decision to resignfrom secular work and devote full time to the preaching of the gospel with the Westview churchof Christ. About three and one-half years ago, a fewfaithful brethren left the liberal congregation to begin a sound scriptural work. By the good providence of God, substantial progress has been made. At present, our attendance is averaging over one hundred.The Westview congregation is the only one in Morgan County that conducts a daily radio program. Weare in the process of appointing elders, which willbe a great asset to our work. The prospects lookgood for a pleasant and profitable work. We have agospel meeting scheduled in March, 1967 withbrother Jimmy Thomas of Columbia, Tennessee, andin August, 1967 with brother Hiram Hutto, Peoria,Illinois. Our building is conveniently located in Hartselle, on the Vaughan Bridge Road, just two blockswest of Highway 31. When in North Alabama, besure to stop by and visit with us. My phone numberis 773-6480. ,
Albert F. Robinson, Box 105, Bowling Green, Mo.
— I am now preaching for the church in BowlingGreen, Mo. This is the only church of Christ in thiscity of about 3,000. We number 22 and all stand opposed to church support of human institutions andother innovations. We have gained seven from aliberal church about 20 miles away in the last twomonths. Presently, I am in need of $75.00 supportper month. At the first of the year I will need$150.00 to $175.00 per month. If anyone desires information about me and my work, please contactAlton Jenkins, Sr., Clarksville, Mo., or Westvuechurch of Christ, 316 Kings Highway, Murfreesboro, Tenn.
Robert H. West, Ventura, Calif. — Brother Gordon Wilson of San Diego, is to be with the MainStreet church, October 3rd-9th for a series of lectures on "Christian Evidences," in Ventura, California.
H. E. Phillips, Tampa, Fla. — I am to be with the Westvue church in Murfreesboro, Tenn., in a gospelmeeting, October 23rd-30th. Leslie E. Sloan will be the speaker in a gospel meeting at Forest Hills church in Tampa, Fla., November 13th-20th.
Quentin McCay, Birmingham, Ala. — A small congregation at Graysville, near Birmingham, Ala., isin need of a full time preacher. The church at Graysville can furnish a nice house and part of the support. Other churches in the Birmingham area will,if the right man can be found, supply the remainingsupport. If any preacher is interested, please contact me or James Shear, Adamsville, Alabama.
Charles F. House, P.O. Box 641, San Luis, Arizona
— Marvel and I spent three days here August 19 through 21 with brother Gabriel Ortiz, evangelistfor the Spanish speaking church of that city. Hedevotes full time to the work, but only receives$390.00 per month. The faithful churches at SantaAna (Fairview and Birch), Ontoria, Home Gardens,Berea, Coalinga, California, plus West End at Bowling Green, Kentucky, are presently supporting him.This man needs $260.00 per month right now. Heand his family are suffering. His address is 416 West Los Angeles Drive, Vista, California.
CHRIST SAID "GO", IRELAND SAYS "COME"
Carl McCullough
Who will be the first to say "Here am I; send me."Ireland and its people are a part of the "all nationsand every creature" our Lord commanded the gospelto be preached to. Brethren, this is an urgent appeal.We need at least two families to come to Belfast as soon as possible and then as many others as willin the months to follow. My wife and I have beenin Belfast for nearly three years trying to the best of our ability to found a congregation faithful in allthings to our God. With our Father's help, there nowmeets in Belfast a congregation of New TestamentChristians. Last Lord's day morning in our homethere were nineteen in classes. To my knowledge,we are the only conservative congregation of theLord's church in the whole of the United Kingdomcomprising Scotland, England, Wales and NorthernIreland. Would you like to live in a land with onegospel preacher for over 50 million people? Whatwill the Lord say to us when the larger portion ofthose teeming millions reply in the final judgment,"We did not hear . . .?" The Carl Shaver family, whorecently came to Cork, Southern Ireland from Canada, constitute the church in that part of Irelandand are finding it very difficult in the "CatholicSouth." An article about the Shaver family appeared in the Gospel Guardian a few months past.
SOME DISTURBING DATA
It is estimated that 90% of the members of the church of Christ in the entire world live in six states of the United States. The population of theUnited States of America comprises only about7% of the world's people. It is a sad commentaryindeed that 99% of true gospel preachers are preaching to this 7% while 1% preach to 93% of the population of the world.
The statistics minded brethren tell us of the hundreds, yea thousands, of missionaries sent out by theMormons, Jehovah's Witness, Adventist and otherDenominations. I know the Mormons have more American workers in Belfast than churches of Christ have throughout the world. These have been movedby error to leave America while only 1% of gospelpreachers have been moved by the Truth. These arewilling to go, but we are not. If finances, governmentrestrictions, lack of visas or other obstacles stood in our way, perhaps our miserable failure would bejustifiable. The fact that our people lack the willto go is serious because of the spiritual decay itindicates. Do we not go because of what we'd haveto give up, because of the hardships we'd have to
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face, or is it because we just don't care what happens to the millions of lost outside of the UnitedStates? Is it any wonder that all members of thechurch outside of the United States could be seated in one of our small university football stadiums?Careful consideration of how little we are doing tocarry the gospel to every creature should move theheart of every Christian to greater liberality andzeal.
ADVANTAGES IN NORTHERN IRELAND
There is no language barrier. Immediately youarrive in this country you can teach, preach andbe understood. You will find a friendly and helpfulpeople. The Northern Irish seem to be about theone people left in the world who have respect forand will listen to an American. This is undoubtedlybecause of the close ties so many Irish have withthe States. Most you meet and talk with have relatives living in some part of the States. So you see,we do have much in common. Schools are good. Costof living is about equal to the States while the standard of living is lower. Taxes are high. The weather?Personally, I don't mind it at all. Our hottest daythis summer was 73 fahrenheit. You will not be bothered with flies, mosquitoes or the many otherhousehold pests one must contend with in certainparts of the States.
OUR PLANS
My wife and I plan to return to Texas the firstpart of October this year. I plan to be there for atleast four months or more during which time I willvisit with some of those who have been so good andgenerous to support us and the work in Belfast.While in the States I will visit and talk with families who want to come to Northern Ireland. Let me hear from you.
Beginning in November, if any congregationwould like to use me in a gospel meeting I wouldbe happy to hear from you very soon.
I estimate our travel back to the States plus mybooks and a few personal items to be at least 800.00dollars. I have made one appeal through the Newsletter I send to a hundred congregations and individuals and we have received five dollars as of the first of August. I must also appeal to you for helpon our return. Send dollar checks soon and mark them "travel fund."
The work here will be left in the able and capablehands of brethren William Crozier and Samuel Millar. They have been prepared for this responsibility and are looking forward to being on their own.
Finally, brethren, are YOU willing to come helppreach the gospel to the lost? As a congregation,will you start looking for men to send to the millionswho have never heard instead of men having to spend months traveling, talking to scores of congregations and individuals, and begging for fundsto go?
Our need is not less preaching in the United Statesbut more preaching throughout the world.
Write to me air mail (15 cents per half ounce) 30Glenhurst Drvie— Newtownabbey, Belfast— Northern Ireland as to arrive not later than 15 September,1966, or in care of the church of Christ in SouthHouston, P.O. Box 346, South Houston, Texas 77587.
THE COTTAGE MEETING
A great deal is said about conducting cottage meetings these days, but for the most part those aremerely theories. There is only one way to really learnhow to conduct this type of class, viz., getting intohomes and making application of those things learnedfrom various publications. Unless one is willing toapply the various theories and ideas relative to teaching in homes, personal evangelism through cottagemeetings will never become a reality. Experience isthe best teacher.
As long as we merely talk about the cottage meeting, Satan has no fear. But, when we start knocking on doors and getting into homes with Bible centeredlessons, Satan has something to worry about, for theGospel is God's power to save (Rom. 1:16-17). Satanknows that cottage meetings are an effective way of winning converts to Christ, and that many who cannot preach sermons can become very active to evangelism through this means.
WHAT IS A "COTTAGE MEETING?"
A "Cottage Meeting" is a class conducted in ahome, a dwelling, or cottage in which the gospel ofJesus Christ is taught. Usually it is a series of classesin which the scheme of redemption or a series oflessons designed to edify saints are taught. This maybe one in which saints alone meet for study, or it maybe for non-saints. In either case, those lessons bestsuited for the occasion are the ones presented.
Usually, a series runs for six to eight weeks, oneevening a week. The schedule should be set up to suitthe convenience of those in whose homes the classes are conducted.
HOW MANY DOES IT TAKE TO MAKE A
COTTAGE MEETING?
The size of the cottage meeting class depends uponthe conditions and circumstances under which the class is arranged. It may vary from one student toa dozen or more. Large numbers do not have to bepresent to reap a harvest of souls. As a matter offact, the smaller the class, the more the freedomexists. Prospects find themselves more at ease andfind it easier to join in with the discussion. Hence,the fewer the number in the group, the more personalthe contact between the teacher and pupils.
The importance of teaching one person at a timeis illustrated in numerous passages. Paul remindedthe Ephesian elders how that he "shrank not fromdeclaring ... anything that was profitable, and teaching you publicly, and from HOUSE TO HOUSE (Acts 20:20). Ananias was sent to Paul and straightwaycommanded him to be baptized (Acts 9:11; 22:16).
Personal contact with individuals through personalwork is illustrated by the church in Jerusalem goingabout preaching the word when scattered abroad bythe great persecution (Acts 8:1,4). To this could beadded the house of Cornelius (Acts 10), the jailer(Acts 16:32), Lydia (Acts 16:14-15) and others.
Mass selling among salesmen in secular fields isforbidden for the most part. Salesmen know the importance of personal contact. Take the auto salesmanfor example: He has "floor time" where the peoplecome to him, but at the same time, his "out time""where he goes to the prospect" consumes the greaterportion of his schedule. Personal contact is the keyto the personal worker's success. This bring us to thequestion:
WHY HAVE COTTAGE MEETINGS?
Cottage meetings are effective in converting peopleto Christ and activating the working potential of thelocal church. There are several reasons for this.
The Personal Appeal: Many are convinced of thetruth, but are hesitant to obey it. These are oftenreached by a personal appeal in which the question"Why tarry; why not be baptized" is posed. Peopleappreciate individual attention, and when they knowyou are personally concerned about them, they become more receptive. No other type of teachingmethod can touch the cottage meeting in demonstrating personal interest of the teacher for hisstudent.
Effective Approach: A teaching situation is moreeasily created in the cottage meeting class than anyother type. There are no strange buildings to go to,no strange or new people to meet, and no worshipservice to conform to in order to be taught the gospel.The only thing needed is the prospect's permissionto have a study in familiar surroundings. When theconditions and approach are right, it is easier for theprospect to answer affirmatively when confrontedwith the need of obedience. Because of this environmental advantage, he is more at ease and able totalk freely with more confidence.
Individual needs: The private study helps theteacher to meet the individual needs of the student. Each interested party is different from others intheir religious background, personality and disposition. This is why people could attend regular services for months and not hear the lesson that answers their needs. In the cottage meeting class, the teacher isable to begin where the student is and work himtoward truth. For some, this is the only approach.
Proper Foundation: To be successful, the teachermust lay a good foundation. Only faith in Christ willcause one to reject former religious training in preference for truth. Through the cottage class, with itsatmosphere of friendliness and ease, the teachercreates a deep acquaintance which causes the teacher to be able to get to the root of the prospect's problem.This makes it easier for the prospect to admit hiserror and overcome the stumbling block of pride.It is easier to confess sin to the sympathetic ear ofan interested party than to do so to the critical public.
CONCLUSION
By no means is one to conclude that the cottagemeeting type of teaching is a cure all for what ailsthe local church. Furthermore, it is not going to be100% effective. But, the fact still remains: this continues to be one of the most effective methods in evangelizing the world. We should not abandon othermethods of teaching for this alone. But we shouldutilize this method to the fullest extent.
In our first article on the church in California we tried to give our brethren in other parts of the country an idea of the moral and spiritual atmospherewhich prevails in the most populous state in theunion. Though our estimate of the situation mayhave sounded a bit exaggerated and pessimistic tobrethren living in more stable areas of the countrywe nevertheless reaffirm that the spiritual conditionof the "Pro-Cals," as California residents are called, is fast becoming exactly what Paul must have encountered upon entering Corinth two thousand yearsago. The "nut" state is directionless, morally unscrupulous, spiritually hapless, and — physically topless. The writers of Look magazine have recentlypredicted that what California is today, the rest ofthe nation will be in fifty years or less. Brethren,make hay while the sun shines; preach as thoughtomorrow were judgment day. Your days for a reasonably law-abiding environment, a relatively moralsocial order, and God-fearing neighbors are numbered.
But what inroads have our brethren made into this degenerate mass of highly-paid, well-fed, over-recreated Californians? To be frank, little evidence hascome to our attention that the faithful churches of this state are having much success in reaching thelost. Oh certainly, nearly every place is baptizing itsone or two a year and some are doing far better. Butthe fact of the matter is that the Berkeley brain-twisters and their kind have so undermined respectfor authority of any kind in this area that it is difficult to find anyone who can be persuaded to "humble himself that he might be exalted" someday. Out hereevery man wants "his" now and "church" is not theplace to get it. The only religious bodies that havefound a wide-based response from the Californianswho are not ensnared by morally lax Catholicism are the handout groups — i.e. our institutional, recreational, pro-denominational brethren.
In southern California the institutional brethren,under the insidious influence of Pepperdine College-trained preachers, sewed-up and delivered most ofSan Diego and Los Angeles to the liberal camp longbefore a shot was fired elsewhere. From 1950-55 scarcely a church in San Diego, our home town, waseven vaguely taught on the institutional issues. The1955-60 period saw only two or three establishedchurches out of twenty or more take a stand for thetruth in this city. The number is slightly larger now.
In Los Angeles and the surrounding vicinity therewere more brethren in the early fifties who knewwhat was coming and were already teaching on theissues. As a teenager I can recall hearing men like Wright Randolph and others who were laboring inthat area called quacks, cranks, screwballs, alarmists, and hobbyists. The great Mountain View churchin San Bernardino, under the leadership of outstanding elders like Gowan Evans, stood squarely for thetruth during these years of awakening and paid theprice of derision, scorn, and mockery. Most southernCalifornia brethren in those days who loved the wordof God could not be persuaded that there was actually an element in the church that wanted to lead us into denominationalism. From about 1952 to 1956 theywere made to realize this fact as they awoke in thestreets outside their meeting-houses, having beenkicked out there by their "orphan-loving" brethren.Nearly all of southern California went to the would-be sectarians among us during the fifties. Today, menlike Roy Cogdill, Arthur Atkinson, Bill Fling, Gilbertand Jady Copeland, Brent Lewis, and many othersare preaching the truth in this area but the going is not easy.
In central and northern California the story hasbeen much the same. Men like the Moyer brothers,the Wilsons, Norton Dye, and others sought foryears to turn the tide but as in southern California,so in the north; there are two meeting-houses innearly every town. The old one perennially belongs tothe liberals, the other, smaller, newer one belongs tofaithful brethren. One notable exception is the Sunnyvale church in the San Francisco Bay area. Understrong elders, two of whom are completely financiallysupported by the church, it has built to around fourhundred members and has a great influence fortruth. As the population explosion pushes north outof the southern California urban areas it may bethat the churches of northern California will be able to make great strides though the worldliness we havedescribed will prove a formidable obstacle. Our nextarticle will concentrate on the new crop of churchesin this last frontier of the state.
While visiting the World's Fair during the summer of 1964. I had the opportunity to attend the servicesof the Exodus Bayshore Church of Christ in WestIslip, N.Y. Since then I have been fortunate to receivethe weekly bulletin (EXODUS MILESTONES) ofthat congregation. I say I am fortunate because theusual trend of digressive brethren is to mark thoseoff the mailing list who disagree with their compromising spirit and their engaging in other unscriptural practices.
This congregation is caught up in campaigns,youth movements, institutionalism, conferences,brotherhood workshops, plays, etc., and it is not unusual to read such items as:
(1) Teenagers have been invited to a Valentine Banquet, Feb. 11, at 7:00 p.m. in the banquetroom of the Quality Motel in Riverhead. This isbeing sponsored by the Riverhead church. (Feb.3, 1966 bulletin — emphasis mine, DB).
(2) Sunday evening, June 19, the a capellachorus of the West Islip church will present aspecial message in song. This will likely be one ofthe most inspirational evenings of the year. (June 16, 1966) (3) CAR FOR SALE: ---------------------, faithcorps candidate in training at Harding College,has a 1965 six-cylinder Mustang for sale. It has a radio and heater, 3-speed transmission, and inlike-new condition. She owes $2400, payable at$75 per month and is seeking someone who would take up the payments on the car.(June 16)
And in another issue just a few weeks ago thereappeared an announcement that two had placed membership with the church. One was a Baptist whoclaimed to have been baptized for the remission ofsins and the other was a member of the Church of God. No mention was made of confessing error butthat they had "placed membership." Nor was theremention of the Church of God member's having beenscripturally baptized. As Mark Twain said, "All Iknow is what I read." BUT the irony came in the June23, 1966 issue. The elders decided that the congregation had been having too much activity so they cancelled their vacation Bible school.
The bulletin usually consists of three pages abouttheir projects and a general overall bragging onthemselves. And one page is usually devoted to teaching (but not always). A typical bulletin is the onedated June 2, 1966. The first page tells of a trip toMadison, Tenn. to visit the largest Church of Christ in the world which has 3300 members. The third pagetells of other exodus movements and the last pageannounces the coming of the Bloodmobile, a nearbycampaign, and an article in the Wall Street Journal. The second page was devoted to teaching(?). Thearticle on that page is the primary cause of this writing for it truly shows the sad result of the "no pattern" theory. It was written by their minister and itis entitled THE CASE FOR TOTAL ABSTINENCE. Here is the full article in print:
Christ's disciple does not abstain from alcoholic beverages because of scriptural injunction.Nowhere does the Bible say that it is morallywrong to drink an alcoholic beverage. It doesteach that it is a sin to drink to excess or to become intoxicated. The scripture says that thosewho are guilty of drunkenness shall not inheritthe kingdom of God. It is readily apparent thatwine was a legitimate beverage for first centurydisciples. Paul told Timothy to "use a little winefor the sake of your stomach" (I Tim. 5:23), Adeacon must not be "addicted to much wine" (I Tim. 3:8). The older women were told not tobe "slaves to drink" (Titus 2:3). John's gospelstates that Christ turned water to wine.
The Christian's case for total abstinence is based then upon a voluntary restraint of hisfreedom. In this realm of Christian liberty Paulteaches us that we are not to judge each other(Romans 14). We have an awesome responsibility to use this freedom properly. Now we don'treally like this. It would be much easier if Christhad been entirely authoritarian. We practicetotal abstinence not because it is a legal command but because it is a matter of conscience.
The culture in the day of Christ was quite different from ours. There is in the minds of many amoral stigma attached to drinking in any form.Out of consideration for the alcoholic, the weakbrother, and those outside Christ, the matureChristian chooses to abstain. While we voluntarily limit our freedom in this respect, we mustat the same time concede that the Christian has the liberty to drink alcoholic beverage in moderation. This means we must be extremely carefulhow we judge a brother who drinks conservatively. The brother who drinks conservativelymust also respect the coincidence of that onewho chooses not to drink. "Then let us no more pass judgment on one another." — Dwain Evans.
I should be surprised at such an article but I amnot. This is the only course that the "no pattern" believer can follow. It is all right to drink moderately because the Bible doesn't say "Thou shalt not." Ofcourse this kind of reasoning opens the door for gambling, instrumental music, counting beads, etc., because the Bible doesn't say "Thou shalt not." Itmakes one wonder if that author is not trying tojustify himself in something.
Due to lack of space we will not attempt to answerBrother Evans in this article. A later article will follow on the subject of drinking "moderately." Thepurpose in publishing these facts was to show thosewho supported this exodus movement just how much of an "exodus" those brethren made and to further illustrate the sad results of the "no pattern" theory.
When vacationing, traveling or moving-
![]()
WORSHIP WITH THESE CHURCHES
PLEASAN T GROVE CHURCH OF CHRIST meets at PARK RD., PLEASANT GROVE
Schedule of Services
LORD'S DAYBIBLE STUDY 10 00 A MMORNING WORSHIP 110 0 AMEVENING WORSHIP 6 00 P MWEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY 7 30 P M
Evangelist: Owen J. Calvert PHONE: 781-2181
TAMPA. FLORIDA
FOREST HILLS CHURCH OF CHRIST meets at 1011 W. LINEBAUGH AVENUE
Schedule of Set vices
LORD'S DAY
| BIBLE STUDY | 9 00 A M | |
| MORNING WORSHIP | 9 50AM | |
| EVENING WORSHIP | 6 00P M | |
| WEDNESDAY BIBLE | STUDY | 7 30 P M |
Evangelist: H. E. Phillips PHONE. 935-3691
MURRAY. KENTUCKY
WEST MURRAY CHURCH OF CHRIST meets in LUTHER ROBERTSON SCHOOL
Schedule of Services
LORD'S DAY BIBLE STUDY 10 00 A M MORNING WORSHIP 10 50 AM EVENING WORSHIP 7 00 P M
WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY 7 30 P M
Evangelist: Aude McKee PHONE. 753-7769
BRADENTON. FLORIDA
WEST BRADENTON CHURCH OF CHRIST meets at 1619 10th AVENUE WEST
Schedule of Services
LORD'S DAYBIBLE STUDY 9 45 A MMORNING WORSHIP 10 45 AMEVENING WORSHIP 6 00 P MWEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY 7 30P M
Evangelist: Olin Hastings
PHONE:
TAMPA. FLORIDA
SEMINOLE CHURCH OF CHRIST
meets at ROME AVE. & WISHART BLVD.
Schedule of Services
LORD'S DAY BIBLE STUDY 9 45 A M MORNING WORSHIP 10 45 AM EVENING WORSHIP 6 00 P M WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY 7 30 P M
Evangelist-James P Miller James G. Walker
OKLAHOMA CITY. OKLA.
ROCKWELL AVENUE CHURCH OF CHRIST
meets at 920 N. ROCKWELL AVENUE
Schedule of Services
LORD'S DAYBIBLE STUDY 9 45 A MMORNING WORSHIP 10 45 AMEVENING WORSHIP 6 00 P M
WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY 7 30 P M
Evangelist: J. T. SmithPHONE: SU 9-1428
MIAMI. FLORIDA
NORTH MIAMI AVENUE CHURCH OF CHRIST meets at 143rd ST. & NO. MIAMI AVE.
Schedule of Services
| 10 00 A M | |
| 1100A M | |
| WORSHIP | 6 00 P M |
| 7 30 P M |
Evangelist: Bobby Thompson PHONE: 685-3203
DECATUR. GEORGIA
GLENWOOD HILLS CHURCH OF CHRIST meets at 2957 GLENWOOD ROAD
Schedule of Services
LORD'S DAY BIBLESTUDY 1 0 00 A M MORNING WORSHIP 1100A M EVENING WORSHIP 7 00 P M WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY 7 30 P.M
Evangelist: J. Edward Nowlin PHONE-377-7782
JACKSON. TENNESSEE
HOLLYWOOD DRIVE CHURCH OF CHRIST
meets at H'WOOD DR. AT HATTON
Schedule of Services
LORD'S DAY BIBLE STUDY 10 00 A M. MORNING WORSHIP 1100A M EVENING WORSHIP 6 00 P M WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY 7 30 P M
Evangelist: L Earl Fly
PHONE: 424-2821
ORLANDO. FLORIDA
HOLDEN HEIGHTS CHURCH OF CHRIST meets at 1000 22nd STREET
Schedule of Services
| STUDY | 9 45 A M | |
| WORSHIP | 10 50 AM | |
| 7 00P M | ||
| 7 30 P M | ||
Evangelist: Jim Ward PHONE-424-3533
LOUISVILLE. KENTUCKY
EXPRESSWAY CHURCH OF CHRIST
meets at 4437 SOUTH 6th STREET
Schedule of Services
LORD'S DAY BIBLE STUDY 9 00 A M MORNING WORSHIP 10 00 AM EVENING WORSHIP 6 00 P M WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY 7 30P M
Evangelist: Jas P. Needham PHONE- 366-0884
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