There are several reasons why denominationalismis wrong; but we want to consider in this article thatthe main reason why denominationalism is wrong isthat it violates the prayer of Jesus for unity in John 17:30-31, and breeds division that is condemned bythe apostle Paul in I Cor. 1.
If we would read and study our Bibles, we wouldknow that there is not one whit of Scripture for themany denominations that are in existence today. Youhave only to turn to the pages of God's Book and read for yourself that there never was anything thatlooked like the Methodist, Baptist, Presbyterians orover 300 other denominations that are in the world today. We need to point out to people this very fact,for those who are in these denominations that were started by men (not Jesus Christ) who have theirfaith in their creeds and manuals and disciplines (notin the Bible) are LOST, for faith comes by hearingand hearing by the word of God (Rom. 10:17). If we continue to "pussy-foot" around and let these people think by our SILENCE that they are all right, Godwill hold us responsible for their souls. The prophetof God, Ezekiel, said in Ezek. 3:18-19 "When I sayunto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wickedfrom his wicked way, to save his life; the samewicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his bloodwill I require at thine hand. Yet if thou warn thewicked, and he turn not from this wickedness, norfrom his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; butthou hast delivered thy soul." If we, then, expect tosave our own souls, we must WARN those who arein error of their error lest we BOTH be lost.
Recently, while I was in Lakeview, Georgia in ameeting, I had opportunity to talk to a fellow whowas a Presbyterian. We discussed the Bible at somelength, and as I always try to do, I tried to point outthat there was not a line in the word of God about the Presbyterian church. I urged him to search the
Scriptures and show from the Scriptures anything
about this denomination in the Bible, or how to become a member of it. There is no such thing in theword of God. There is nothing that resembles the hundreds of denominations in the Bible. You couldn't find out how to become a member of the Baptist,Methodist, Lutheran or many others if your life depended on it. Your life doesn't — but your SOULdoes. Souls are going to be lost unless you come backto the Bible and determine not to do anything inbecoming a member of the body of Christ — the Church of Christ except you can read it from theBible.
It is really quite pathetic that people will BLINDLY follow father or mother, attend the services ofsome congregation (denomination) because of theirfine buildings, because of social position, etc. TheBible was written that we might have SALVATIONOF OUR SOULS — not that we might have a higherSOCIAL standing in the community. The Bible waswritten that we might be RECONCILED TO GOD —not in an attempt to reconcile us with all the religious world.
We would to God that there be unity in the religious world. However, there can never be such UNLESS people are willing to follow the only rule bookthat is in existence from God today — THE BIBLE. It seems to me such a useless waste of time for people to say they want to be saved and yet IGNOREthe plain and simple commands in the Bible on whatto do in becoming a Christian.
Jesus said one must BELIEVE (John 8:24), REP.ENT OF SINS (Luke 13:3), CONFESS HIS NAMEbefore men (Matt. 10:32) and be BAPTIZED (Mark16:16) to be SAVED. If we will do that the Lord willadd us (the saved) to His Church (Acts 2:47). Ifpeople would only follow that pattern that God hasset forth in becoming Christians and quit this "foolishness" of signing cards, kneeling at a "mourner'sbench" and a hundred other things and ways of TRYING to be saved; and just simply accept what theLord said, we would not have all this division andreligious confusion.
If you have not done these things in becoming aChristian, why not contact a gospel preacher todayand get him to assist you in doing this and in helpingyou to become a Christian so you can be added by theLord to HIS church. Then you can continue yourstudy of the Bible (not some creed book) and learnyour responsibility in living the Christian life andworking for the cause of Jesus Christ. You can learnfrom the Word of God what you need to do in thework and worship as God has directed— doing thingsGod's way.
MILLER-WOODS DEBATE
Aug. 29-Sept. 1, 1966 Montgomery, Alabama
Two propositions will be discussed for four nights.
Woods will affirm the first proposition for two nights,
and Miller will affirm the second proposition for two
nights. The propositions are: "It is in harmony with the scriptures for churches
of Christ to build and maintain benevolent organiza
tions, such as Boles Home, Tipton Home, Tennessee
Orphan Home, Childhaven, and other orphan homes
and homes for the aged that are among us." "Such an arrangement and cooperative effort on
the part of churches of Christ for preaching the gospel
such as the 'Herald of Truth' is without scriptural
authority." This debate will be of the best quality on new l 1/2
mil Mylar (Polyester) tape and recorded at 3 3/4 speed.
Orders will be shipped in the order in which they are
received. "First come, first served." Place your order
now Complete Debate Four reels — $12.00
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PHILLIPS PUBLICATIONS
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CHART SERMONS
By Steve Hudgins
Six volumes of excellent chart sermons by Steve Hudgins that will provide scriptural material for sermons. Each chart as the sermon outline on the opposite page.
Most preachers with whom I talk express deep concern for the growing lack of interest for the churchof our Lord and for the work of preaching the gospelto every creature. We have today some of the greatest opportunities for reaching people with God'struth than ever before. We are living in a day ofgreat prosperity; the funds are available for supporting the preaching of the gospel. We have thebest means of communication today that the worldhas ever known. Since Jesus said, "Go ye into allthe world, and preach the gospel to every creature"(Mark 16:15), and Paul said, "For I am not ashamedof the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of Godunto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jewfirst, and also the Greek" (Rom. 1:16); also, "Forafter that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness ofpreaching to save them that believe" (I Cor. 1:21),we are going to be lost ourselves if we do not makesome effort according to our abilities to carry thegospel to the lost.
Publishing a paper like Searching the Scripturesis an expensive and laborious task. It requires longhours every day. The only motivating force thatdrives brother Miller and me to continue this work is the possible good that may be done to some lost soul and to encourage those who are trying to standfor the faith once delivered to the saints. At times we almost feel physically unable to continue, but wefear to discontinue this effort to teach God's truth because of the great need.
We need the help of each reader of this paper. You can assist us in the effort to do what the Lord requires of us to preach the word through the printedpage by first subscribing yourself for the paper. Theprice for one year — 12 issues — is $3.00 for a singlesubscription. Check your expiration date now and
Page 3
if it has expired, please take the time to renew. Morethan this, you can subscribe for at least one personbesides yourself. Surely you know someone who canbenefit from reading the articles in this paper and then "search the Scriptures" to see whether they aretrue. For the next thirty days we will send TWOsubscriptions -— you and someone to whom you wouldlike to send this paper for one year — for $5.00. That reduces the price of each subscription to $2.50.
If, however, your ability and interest are greatenough, send THREE subscriptions together withyour own for only $7.50 for one whole year. Thismakes each subscription only $1.88 per year This isa lost to us, but it will enable us to reach more people with the truth. This is how you can help!
This is one way you can help in carrying the truthto many people for such a small amount of money.Surely there are several hundred who are interestedenough in doing the will of God in this respect tosend a year's subscription to some persons who could profit by reading these lessons from God's word. Onlyeternity will reveal the good that will be done. Wehope you will give some serious consideration- to this matter and send as many subscriptions as youcan. If you can do no more, let us receive your ownrenewal.
QUESTION — I have been told that since the exception for divorce and remarriage as made byJesus (Matt. 19:9) was made while the law of Moseswas yet in effect, it does not apply today; that itmust be "confirmed unto us by them that heard him"(Heb. 2:3), and that such confirmation is not to befound after the New Testament became effective (Heb. 9:16,17). Will you please comment on this?
— B.L.
ANSWER: While the exception made by Jesus inMatt. 19:9 was made while the law of Moses was yetin effect, it was made in anticipation of His kingdomor the gospel dispensation. Much of what Jesustaught during His personal ministry was preparatoryto the beginning of the new order of things underHis power and authority. The context and the rule of harmony (examining a thing in the light of all elsethat is revealed) will determine whether or notreference is made to the law then in force (the lawof Moses) or the law of Christ.It is true that the law of Christ — His last will and testament — did not become effective until after His death (Heb. 9:16,17). Consequently, what was taughtby His authority did not become effective till afterthe inauguration of the new order under His reign asking. Furthermore, this power was not wrought inHim until after His resurrection: "And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward whobelieve, according to the working of his mightypower, which he wrought in Christ, when he raisedhim from the dead, and set him at his own righthand in the heavenly places, Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, andevery name that is named, not only in this world,but also in that which is to come: And hath put allthings under his feet, and gave him to be the headover all things to the church, Which is his body, thefullness of him that filleth all in all" (Eph. 1:19-23). It should be remembered that Jesus was born under the law of Moses (Gal. 4:4) ; that He not onlykept it perfectly, but taught others that "one jotor one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, tillall be fulfilled" (Matt. 5:18). He did not violate it,and He would not allow others to do so, but ratherurged them to keep all that was in it as long as itwas in force (Matt. 23:1-3).
In view of the above, read again our text in thelight of its context, and it will be observed that thecontrast is between that authorized by Moses andthat authorized by Christ.
"The Pharisees also came unto him, temptinghim, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause? And heanswered and said unto them, Have ye not read,that he which made them at the beginning made
them male and female. And said, For this causeshall a man leave father and mother, and shallcleave to his wife: and they twain shall be oneflesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, butone flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. They say untohim, Why did Moses then command to give awriting of divorcement, and to put her away. He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness ofyour hearts suffered you to put away yourwives: but from the beginning it was not so. AndI say unto you. Whosoever shall put away hiswife, except it be for fornication, and shall marryanother, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery" (Matt. 19:3-9). Since the authority ofMoses extended to the cross, it follows that theauthority of Christ did not begin until afterwards.To bind what was taught by the authority ofChrist, that was in contrast to the law of Moses,while the law of Moses was yet in effect is to haveJesus at variance with His own teaching, e.g., Matt. 5:17,18; 23:1-3.
Heb. 2:3 as used in the question under study is misused. The word "confirm" means "to make firm,establish, make secure" (W. E. Vines). Thus, it conveys the idea of a guarantee. It does not mean justwriting a thing down again once it has been revealed or taught. The "great salvation" was "confirmed unto us by them that heard him" by the signs, miracles, and wonders which they did (Mark 16:20;Heb. 2:4). It is also a fact that the exception taughtby Jesus (Matt. 19:9) was written by Matthew, anapostle, after the law ended at the cross (Col. 2:14), and after the establishment of the church (Acts 2).Matthew wrote in the gospel dispensation of thingsthat happened prior to its beginning. Much of whathe wrote involved what Jesus taught in anticipationof His kingdom. Thus, the exception of Matt. 19:9 can apply only under the reign of Christ and, hence,in the gospel dispensation.
W. W. OTEY, CONTENDER FOR THE FAITH
A history of controversies in the church of Christ from 1860-1960
by Cecil Willis
A biography of one of the greatest gospel preachers of this century — William Wesley Otey. A well documented book with some of the most pertinent and important information bearing on the present issue in the church today and its development through the years.
425 pages...........................$4.00
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"EMBELLISH OR EDIFY"
Several years ago a Baptist champion, by the nameof J. N. Hall, met W. J. Howe, in a public debate. Oneof the propositions was the establishment of thechurch. As usual, they got off into a discussion onthe Greek verb in Matt, sixteen. Jesus said, "Uponthis rock I will build my church." Mr. Hall, said that"I will build" means to enlarge, strengthen, increase,embellish or edify a church already built. BrotherHowe, denied this and maintained that the verbmeant to build from the ground up, such as buildinga house. The controversy waxed hot so they bothagreed to appoint a committee, and permit the committee to write to three of the best Greek scholars in the United States and report their reply in various church papers. Professor Thayer was one of the menapproached and here is the reply they received fromall three of the scholars:
- Professor Shaller Matthews, of Chicago said:"The verb in Matthew 16:18 means 'to build,' in thesense one would speak of building a house. He certainly did not mean by the word enlarge, embellish,edify his church."
- Professor Gross Alexander, of Vanderbilt University, said: "You ask for an answer quite independent of all theological creeds and prepossessions. It does not mean to enlarge, embellish, or strengthena house already built; it simply means 'I will build;'and, so far as the mere word is concerned, it impliesthat the building was not yet done, but was to bedone."
- Professor Thayer, of Cambridge, Mass, said: "You ask whether the word in Matthew 16:18, translated 'I will build' means also to enlarge, embellish,etc., and whether one would be justified in puttingeither of these definitions in that language of Christ. I feel constrained to reply in the negative. To translate the term 'build' in this connection by 'enlarge'or 'embellish' would mar the metaphor and dilute thethought."
This, of course, was enough evidence from scholarsto rout a ten acre field of men like J. N. Hall! When our Lord made this statement his church had not been built. The text shows that at some future date it would be built. Some will argue that the churchhad already been built because Jesus said in Mattheweighteen, "Tell it to the church." However, it mustbe remembered that the Lord was giving advice forthe future government of his church. If the Lordhad already established his church he wouldn't havesaid, "Tell it to the church." He would have said,"Tell it to me because I am still here on earth and can settle your problems." He would have been thecourt of final appeal. But knowing that he would die
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before the church came into existence, and also knowing that he would ascend to heaven before the churchwas built he said, "Tell it to the church." In onesense, Jesus was laying the lumber or material forthe church which was to be built on Pentecost in Acts two. It cannot be denied that our Lord was preparing the people for the church which was "athand" while he was on the earth.
"Sorry to be late in sending in for my renewal toyour excellent paper." — A. A. Stone, Miami, Fla.
"We continue to enjoy Searching The Scriptures,and think it is 'tops' in the magazine field. The contents of it are well chosen and timely in nature. Youare to be commended for the quality of the magazine. Keep up the good work." — C. A. Cornelius, Tulsa,Okla.
"You are doing a fine work. We enjoy readingSearching The Scriptures very much." — Sam W. Garrison, Nashville, Tenn.
"Searching the Scriptures continues to produce good timely articles which we appreciate greatly.Your 'two-side' approach on such a wide range ofsubjects invite serious study of many questions,which is an effective method of assuring that weshall not 'fall for' one error while we 'stand against' another." — Roy Whitworth, Fort Meade, Fla.
"Keep up the good work in Searching The Scriptures." — W. C. Moseley, Venice, Calif.
"I have enjoyed reading every issue of SearchingThe Scriptures. You brethren are doing a fine jobwith this paper and I pray for you many years ofthe same service to the Master." — Bob Tuten,Bergen, Norway.
"Let me express my appreciation for your publication Searching The Scriptures." — Roland J. McDowell, Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia.
"I could not appreciate more the fine paper thatyou brethren are publishing and intend to send inseveral subscriptions." — George C. Garrison, New-bury Park, Calif.
"We have enjoyed Searching The Scriptures forseveral years now, and hope that you will continueto publish the sound articles in the future." — Giles
M. Painter, Salisbury, N.C.
"We look forward to receiving your magazineand pray that you continue to stand firm for thetruth." — Mr. and Mrs. James E. Crowell, Nashville, Tenn.
"I continue to enjoy Searching The Scriptures. I wish James P. would do more work on his article concerning the Herald of Truth and pressure. Thatshould be developed into a tract." — Earl E. Robertson, Moundsville, W.Va.
"I enjoy your paper very much." — Granville Allen, Florence, Ala. "Please renew my subscription to your fine paper. I enjoy it very much." — N. W. Fisk, Merced, Calif.
"Searching The Scriptures continues to be a goodmedium for teaching the Word; may it have a longlife of usefulness in this work." — Walter N. Henderson, Lawrenceburg, Tenn.
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"Keep up the good work with Searching TheScriptures. I always read just about every articlebefore putting it down shortly after it's arrivaleach month. God bless every scriptural effort youput forth, and may all who read and rejoice oversuch progress pray for our every righteous effort."
— Kenneth E. Thomas, Kirkland, Ill."We continue to enjoy Searching The Scriptures." — Carl McCullough, Belfast, Northern Ireland."Searching The Scriptures continues to be a splendid paper." — Don Brown, Oceanside, Calif."Searching the Scriptures is truly a great monthly for upholding the great truth of the gospel. . .May the Lord bless you with many more years inHis service." J. R. White, Bowling Green, Ky.
"Enjoy Searching the Scriptures immensely, wishit were a weekly paper!" — Robert J. LaCoste, Glendale, Ariz.
"Your paper is getting some favorable remarksfrom up here now and I hope others will soon betaking it." — J. Frank Ingram, Blue Ash, Ohio.
"You are doing a good work with Searching TheScriptures. Keep up the good work." — William H. Lewis, Indianapolis, Ind.
"God bless you and brother Miller in your workwith your fine paper which is doing so much good."
— Harry Thetford, Orlando, Fla.
How many times it has been said, "nothing evergoes over where I worship." Unfortunately, everychurch has its bearer of sad tidings who find iteasier to complain than to do anything constructive.This can be expected because it requires no specialgift to demonstrate critical hindsight. The mutterers, grumblers and murmurers of our present generation of "respectable church members" see onlythe failures within the flock of God of which theyare affiliated. They cannot see through the veneerof "members moving out of the city," of indifferenceon the part of some, of failures in the cottage meeting program and poorly attended classes. These arethe Elijahs of our generation who feel that "I, evenI only, am left," when in reality there are severalthousands in spiritual Israel who are steadfastlyworking out their salvation (I Kings 19:9-18; Phil.2:12).
Since murmuring is "moral rebellion against God"(Vincent, Word Studies in the New Testament, Vol. 3, P. 439), it is grave and serious error to allow thesepersistent pessimists to set the mode in the localchurch. Furthermore, continued indignant displeasure and complaining not only retards our spiritualgrowth, it hampers the work and downgrades the moral of the corporate body. "Neither murmur ye,as some of them also murmured, and were destroyedof the destroyer" is just as serious an admonition for us today as it was for the Corinthian brethren(I Cor. 10:10). Let the vocal minority who are heardsaying, "I can tell you right now it won't work.We've tried it before," take note of this one fact:The desire for accomplishment is an imperative ingredient for any active group of saints. Growth andprosperity are contingent upon the desire to workwhile it is day (Jno. 9:4). To a great extent, theindividual members of the local church are masters of their group. Failure to support the functional arrangements and activities designed to edify saintsand propagate Truth is to this extent retardation.Instead of knocking and criticizing the efforts of thefaithful, give the church where you worship a break!Why not go to bat for it? It is no doubt a goodchurch, made up of some fine people who are zealousand enthusiastic. They may be in the minority, butthey desire to work and serve the Master to theextent of their ability. Those creatures of little faithwho sit back and complain are not experts as to what should and should not be done. Sure, there are problems. But these are eliminated by Scriptural, positive, aggressive action on the part of the faithful.
There is a door of service open for you! Will youserve Him? Paul said in II Corinthians 2:12, ".. . .when I came to Troas to preach Christ's gospel, anda door was opened unto me of the Lord." God constantly opens doors for service, but too many of usare like the man who said he never answered the door when opportunity knocked, because it alwaysturned out to be hard work! Cicero said, "I criticizeby creation; not by finding fault." May we suggestthat you analyze yourself before you criticize?
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
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AN EXPOSITORY DICTIONARY OF NEW TESTAMENT WORDS
W. E. Vine This book is a valuable work to the Bible student. It is a standard work bused upon a firm textual and grammatical foundation with renderings of the words andphrases of the New Testament from both Authorized andAmerican Revised Versions, and against the background of the original Greek. It is a dictionary, a concordance, and a commentary in one volume. Price— $11.95
THE NEED TO BE INFORMED
Abraham Lincoln is credited with saying, "Letthe country be informed and the country is safe."Whether he said it or not, I do not know, but onething I know and that is if any people can be informed properly they will be safe provided theyhave any concern for their welfare. People can notact properly without proper knowledge. One reasonwhy a person can not perform a particular task isoften that he does not have the knowledge to do so.An individual working on a broken machine couldfix it without any trouble, but often he has difficultyin locating the trouble, thus, he is hindered by a lackof knowledge.
The prophet Hosea said of Israel in 4:6 of the book bearing his name, "My people are destroyed for lackof knowledge:" Destruction was upon Israel becausethey were ignorant of God's will. Jesus, upon oneoccasion, said, "Ye shall know the truth and thetruth shall make you free." Christ said this to someJews which believed on him. Their knowing thetruth was conditioned upon their continuing in thewords of Christ. They could not know the truthwithout continuing in the words of Christ. Thisshows us the necessity of not only knowing the truthbut also that we must continue in the truth.
What is truth? In John 17:17 Jesus said, "Thyword is truth." Truth is determined by the word ofGod. Truth has already been determined. In Psm.119:89, the Psalmist said, "Forever, O Lord, thyword is settled in heaven." Truth is not relative,changing with the passing of time. What was religious truth one hundred years ago is still truth.What is truth today will be truth one hundred yearsfrom now. Since truth does not change, there is theneed to study the truth, the word of God, so thatwe might be made free in any age.
The reason we need to always study the truth istwo fold. (1) The word of the Lord points out tous certain problems that will confront us, and (2)the answers to those problems will be found contained in the word of God. In any age there areproblems that confront the people of God and theonly solution to these will be found in the word ofthe Lord. These problems will be the same thatSatan used on the preceding generation, but he willhave changed the outward dress so as to deceive usand get us to succumb to them.
(1) Elders Have Problems. Satan is after all the elders of the church in an effort to catch them in his trap. Satan wants them to disregard their work andfail to carry out the will of the Lord. Satan willpresent ways to lead the congregation away fromthe Bible and if elders are not alert to what is happening and studious in the Word they will not beable to recognize the efforts of Satan to draw away
Page 7
disciples. One of the needs of this hour is for elders to be informed of what the word of God teaches and also to know what is happening in the church. Ifelders do not keep up with what is taking place,how can they teach the portion of the word of Godthat applies to the situation? If a false doctrine istaught in the church this week in Maine, the eldersof the churches in California will have to deal with it next week. How can elders be prepared to handlethe situation if they do not keep themselves informed.
(2) Evangelists Have Problems. Gospel preachers are charged with preaching Christ. Mark 16:15,Acts 8:5, 12, 25. They are charged to reprove, rebuke, and to exhort. II Tim. 4:1-4. Preachers need to study the word of the Lord in order to adequatelybe prepared to meet the efforts of the evil one toseduce souls. Satan will not be the same stumblingstone in the path of a preacher that he will in thelife of an elder. There is a need for preachers towatch for the snares of Satan lest he capture them. (3) Deacons Have Their Problems. Satan has a trap designed for everyone. He leaves no stone unturned in order to get men to serve him. There areproblems that deacons will have that the evangelistwill not have and if Satan can get the deacon toyield to the snares put to him, he has him in hiscontrol just like he has the elder that obeyed him. (4) Parents Have Their Problems. God has ordained certain things for parents to do toward theirchildren. There are things that parents are not todo. From time to time there are certain questionsand problems that come up that face the parent.Shall we permit our children to do a certain thing?Parents, keep in mind that you need to know whatis going on about your children so that you canadequately meet their needs and assist them overthe rough spots in their early years. (5) Children Have Their Problems. Satan wants children in his hand just like he wants their parents.So he places certain problems or temptations in theirpath so as to ensnare them. The problems that thechildren face are not the same problems that theelders of the church have, but all of these problemsare designed with one thing in mind — to get everysoul possible to serve Satan.In some articles to follow I want to notice with our readers some of these problems and what the Bibleteaches about them. Of course, space is alwayslimited and the writer can never take the space tosay everything that could be said on the subject.This being so, I trust that our study will be suggestive to you too and that you will in your ownprivate study think of other problems and searchthe Scriptures for the scriptural solution to thoseproblems.
"FREEDOM" AND "CENSORSHIP" AS DEFINED BY ROMAN CATHOLICISM
The history of the Roman Catholic Church is replete with cases wherein the freedom of thought,freedom of expression and freedom of worship havebeen denied even forcibly, to those who dared tothink, speak and worship in a fashion other thanthat decreed by the Popes.
In our modern day, we are told that the strictnessof Catholic censorship was required during the Middle Ages, but that the progress of civilization hasmodified such a need. However, the fact remainsthat Catholic thought-control exists in a very realsense, and if circumstances permitted, such thought-control and regimented religion would once againbecome the order of the day. The 'circumstancespermitting' such a condition are simply those ofshifting the Roman Catholic population from a minority to a majority in any given Nation or State.
QUOTATIONS FROM CATHOLIC PUBLICATIONS
Pope Leo XIII published an encyclical on 'HumanLiberty' in the year 1888 which contains the following statement: ". . . IT IS QUITE UNLAWFUL TODEMAND, TO DEFEND, OR TO GRANT UNCONDITIONAL FREEDOM OF THOUGHT, OFSPEECH, OF WRITING, OR OF WORSHIP, AS IFTHESE WERE SO MANY RIGHTS GIVEN BY NATURE TO MAN . . ."
This same Leo XIII considered the 'Index of Forbidden Books' to be of such a desirable use that in 1897, he instituted new general decrees concerningthe placing of publications on the Index. The Indexwas reformed by him in the year 1900.
The Catholic Encyclopedia states: "In our owndays (The 20th century. LWM.) the danger causedby bad books has risen to a degree never thoughtof before. Unrestraint of intellect and will is the real cause of this increase. THE SO-CALLED FREEDOM OF THE PRESS OR THE ABOLITION OF PUBLIC CENSORSHIP IS LARGELY RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS UNRESTRAINT (Emphasis mine.LWM). All the more the Church (Catholic Church.LWM.) is bound to put an end to the evil by wiseand just laws. The highest ecclesiastical authority,Leo XIII himself, has done so in the most solemnway by the aforesaid Bull "Officiorum ac Munerum"(25 an., 1897) which obliges very strictly all thefaithful" (Vol. Ill, page 523).
"It is, of course, absolutely impossible for boththe pope and the Congregation of the Index to watchover the press of all countries in order to SUPPRESSAT ONCE EACH AND EVERY PERNICIOUS WRITING..." (Emphasis mine. LWM., Vol. Ill,page 524).
"It is universally granted that especially in ourdays there exists hardly a greater danger to faithand morals than that which we may call the literarydanger. From the greatness or rather indispensableness of the good at stake, the opportuneness andeven necessity of preventive and strictly bindingmeasures undoubtedly follow. In other words, theobject in view of the law, that of safeguarding andkeeping pure religion and morality (As denned byCatholicism. LWM.), is absolutely necessary; nowthis object is at the present time more than everendangered by a bad press; consequently those authorities whose principal office it is to protect thefaith and morals of their subjects, must needs makesuitable provisions against that press. Hence themoral necessity of such laws . . ." (Cath. Encyc,Vol. Ill, page 526.)
"IT MAY BE ADDED THAT PROHIBITION OF BOOKS AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES AGAINST A BAD PRESS ARE INDISPENSABLE EVEN WHERE IN APPEARANCE, AND ACCORDING TO THE LETTER OF THE LAW, ABSOLUTE FREEDOM OF THE PRESS PREVAILS. (Emphasis mine. LWM.) The truth of this is established by the political history of the last centuryno less than by the civil legislation of more recentyears. During the past decades the freedom of thepress, sanctioned by the laws, has degenerated inso many places into absolute lawlessness, that on allsides and from all parties has arisen a demand forlegal protection. The Catholic Church was thereforebound to adhere all the more firmly to her system,(of censorship. LWM.) though in its practical application she was able to introduce many opportunemitigations" (Cath. Encyc. Vol. Ill, page 527).
Let us summarize the foregoing statements: (1)Catholicism teaches that it is QUITE UNLAWFULto demand, defend or grant unconditionally, theFOUR FREEDOMS . . . FREEDOMS THAT AMERICAN CITIZENS HOLD SO DEAR!
(2) Catholicism teaches that FREEDOM OF THE PRESS and the ABOLITION OF PUBLIC CEN SORSHIP is very EVIL! (3) Catholicism would IF SHE COULD .. . in ALL NATIONS . . . SUPPRESS AT ONCE, EACH AND EVERY WRITING . . . that SHE considers to be 'pernicious'. (4) The "BAD PRESS" of our Nation is dangerous to "faith and morals' according to the Catholic Church, due to its enjoyment of FREEDOM!And (5) Catholicism teaches that "PROHIBITION OF BOOKS" and "PREVENTIVE MEASURES AGAINST A 'BAD PRESS'" are INDISPENSABLE even where according to the LETTEROF THE LAW . . . absolute freedom of the press prevails. Thus, even in the United States where freedom of the press does prevail, Catholicism claimsthat CENSORSHIP is INDISPENSABLE in the accomplishment of her aims and intentions!
CONCLUSION
Although our feelings are in sympathy with theHungarian peoples who are being mis-treated bythe Communists, yet we must not lose sight of thefact that over 70% of the Hungarians admitted to this Country, are sincere but deceived members ofthe Roman Catholic Church.
It is a known fact, that wherever Catholicism isin the majority, freedom of worship disappears.Both Communism and Catholicism are philosophiesthat thrive upon thought-control and denial of freedoms. The principle is the same, whether it originates in Rome or Moscow, the Kremlin or theVatican.
PRIMITIVE BAPTIST DOCTRINE
Here is a statement from Mr. Cayce, PrimitiveBaptist preacher, in Confession page 143; "Sufficientprovision was not made in the death of Christ for thesalvation of all the race, because he did not die forall the race." If this is so, and it is not, let us noticethe logical results.
- It makes God a tyrant, for if the doctrine of a limited atonement be true, then God provided for afew leaving others unprovided for, and then consigning the millions to hell for that which they couldnot prevent. "I have no delight (pleasure), in thedeath of the wicked" (Ezek. 33:11).
- Unbelief cannot be a cause of the damnation of those for whom Christ did not die. Unbelief on their part cannot be a sin, for,
3. No possibility of them for whom Christ did notdie to escape damnation.
a. Christ did not die for all — Page 143. b. Only those for whom he died can be saved.c. Then those for whom he did not die come into this world with the necessity of damnation; for before their birth, before they were "babies a spanlong" arrangement was made for the salvation of adefinite number; and those who are lost were notprovided for in the arrangement; it was settled thatChrist was not to die for them, then and there it was settled they must be damned. For them there is noescape, and there has never been.
4. If Christ died for a part of the human family,then the devil is the biggest fool I have ever heardof, for,
a. What has the devil to do? Why should hewalk through the earth seeking whom he may devour? Why should he hunt for the souls of men? Hehas, secured to him by Jehovah, sanctioned by Christ,and sealed by the Holy Spirit, his portion of humansouls. They are counted out, numbered. The namesand number are designated. He could not get onemore even though he move heaven and earth. They are secured to him — not one of them will he lose. Let the devil rest and hell hold high carnival for Godhas given them a large portion of the human family
— for his own pleasure and glory. b. Why should children of God be exercised? Allfor whom Christ died will be brought in. Not one willfail. Why should you labor, you cannot make one hairwhite or black. Why take unto yourself trouble aboutthose whom the Lord has left for the devil? Would you rob the devil? It is not possible! None can perishfor whom Christ died; none can be saved for whomhe did not die. Let the devil and Christians cease from their foolish warfare, let the world have peace;the devil can't lose one of his, nor can he get one of the Lord's.
The inspiration of the Scriptures is a vitally important subject, but the truth about it can be understood by anyone who has the proper disposition(Matthew 13:23). The plainness of Bible teaching isplainly stated in II Corinthians 3:12 which says:"Seeing that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech." It is reassuring to know that "whenye read, ye may understand" (Ephesians 3:4), likethe Bereans who "received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily"(Acts 17:10-11), and like those who were told toread what Apostle Paul had written (Colossians4:16). "Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of God is." "Study to shewthyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word oftruth" (Eph. 5:17, II Tim. 2:15). (All Scriptureemphasis mine, RKP.)
The Bible consists of the recorded words of God,expressing in God's own words, all things pertainingto life and godliness, and does not consist of man'sinterpretations, and/or ideas of God, and/or God'swisdom expressed in words of man's wisdom according to what the Bible itself teaches. One only has toexamine a few Bible passages in an objective mannerin order to substantiate the above proposition.
Almighty God, in whom we live, and move, andhave our being (Acts 17:28) used earthen vessels asinstruments in revealing the treasure of His gospel(II Cor. 4:1-7), His only power to save weak andsinful mankind (Rom. 1:16).
All style variation and personal experiences in theHoly Scriptures are all part of God's wisdom thatteaches His will to man. God did not change the stylesor personalities of the inspired writers but used themas they were to communicate what He wanted theway He wanted it communicated. God's inspiredwriters or spokesmen "spake from God, being movedby the Holy Spirit" (II Pet. 1:20-21). In I Corinthians 2:12-13, the Apostle Paul said, "Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that
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are freely given to us of God. Which things also wespeak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparingspiritual things with spiritual." In other words, theapostles ".. . spoke the things of God in the wordsof God." Commenting upon this same passage, Jinkssaid.
"V. 13 the Spirit of God not only gave the knowledge of these things, but gave them utterance.The truths of God need no garnishing over byhuman skill or eloquence, but look best in thewords which the Holy Ghost teaches. . . The language of the Spirit of God is the most proper toconvey His meaning."II Timothy 3:16-17 says that all Scripture (all
Scripture includes the New Testament as well as the old, see II Peter 3:15-16 also) is inspired of God. The International Standard Encyclopedia says:
" 'inspiration'; that is to say, the action of thespirit of God in so 'bearing' its human authorsin their work of producing the Scripture, as that in the Scriptures they speak, not out of themselves, but 'from God.' It is this act by virtue ofwhich the Scriptures may be properly called'God-breathed.' "
The inspired (God breathed) Scriptures are a complete and sufficient guide for the man of God. "AllScripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, forinstruction in righteousness: That the man of Godmay be perfect (complete — Revised Version), thoroughly furnished unto all good works" (II Tim. 3:16-17). Today the inspired Scriptures throughly("Painstaking, complete, overlooking no detail" — 1964 Webster's New American Dictionary, "in everything" — W. E. Vine, Expository Dictionary of NewTestament Words) furnish the man of God through the knowledge of them (the Bible) ; in them he learnsall things that pertain to life and godliness (II Tim.3:16-17, and II Pet. 1:3).
From these Bible verses and from others that could be mentioned to illustrate the theme of this discussion further, it is very obvious to the unbiased mind that the Bible itself teaches that it is an inspired book.It teaches that it is inspired in the sense that the influence exerted by the Holy Spirit upon the minds ofits writers was such that what has been written bythem contains no error but expresses solely and onlyGod's mind.
". . . THEY REHEARSED ALL THAT GOD HAD DONE WITH THEM . . ."— Acts 14:27
MILLER-WOODS DEBATE
The debate between James P. Miller and Guy N.Woods held in Montgomery, Alabama, August 29, 30, 31, and September 1 was well attended and orderlyconducted. We believe much good was done. This willbe an outstanding debate in the years to come. Clearand complete tapes of the debate are available to anywho want them. The full set of four tapes — one for each night — may be purchased from Phillips Publications, P.O. Box 17244, Tampa, Florida 33612. A fullreport with some charts used will be in the Novemberissue of this paper. Watch for it. — H. E. P.
Larry Bunch, Palmetto, Fla. — Grover Stevens from Louisville, Kentucky will do the preaching in agospel meeting in Palmetto, Florida, October 16-25. Plan to attend as many services as possible.
Kenneth E. Thomas, Kirkland, III. — In the month of August we have had five responses to the gospel ofChrist here at Kirkland. Two of them were youngpeople who had been taught, and were active in theBaptist church until they learned of their error. They took this step in much fear of one grandparent andalso in fear of the man who preaches for the Baptistchurch as he is aggressive to the point that theirfears, especially for young people, were well founded.One grandparent of these young people had been anactive Baptist for about 60 years in Arkansas, andshe obeyed the Lord in baptism about one year ago.
Also in a recent meeting in Amberg, Wisconsin,near Iron Mountain, Michigan, this writer held aneight day meeting resulting in the conversion of anelderly lady 77 years of age who was raised in theLutheran faith. The church there is small but theyare determined to walk according to the faith.
Also we had a meeting here in June with brotherFerrell Jenkins on "The Evidences of Christianity"which was well attended, and much spiritual goodwas accomplished. I am to be in a meeting in northernFlorida between Jennings and Jasper September 11through 18 or longer if interest prevails. I formerlypreached for two years there.
Walter N. Henderson, Lawrenceburg, Tenn. — There has been one baptized here at First Street sinceI moved here July 19th.
John A. Humphries, Harrisburg, Pa. — As of October 1, 1966 I will be working with the Rivermontchurch of Christ in Hopewell, Virginia. My address will be: John Humphries, Route 2, Box 669, Chester,Va. 23831.
Conway Skinner, Beaufort, S. C. — For the first time in the history of Paris Island Recruit TrainingDepot, services are now being held on base eachLord's day for the benefit of Christians who are confined to the base. Please inform any parent who mayhave a son just entered into the corps.
Progress is being made by the new church recently established in Charleston, S. C. They now have a regular meeting place that is plenty commodious to provide for their needs for sometime to come. Their urgent need now is support for a preacher that theymight have a man on the field and at work daily making contacts for the Cause. If the church where youworship may be able to help financially, please contact me.
My next meeting is with the E. Gordon Streetchurch in Valdosta, Georgia, August 14-19. Thischurch is small and we urge all brethren in the area to attend. The work goes well here at Beaufort.
Thomas G. Butler, P.O. Box 1713, Lakeland, Fla.
— Robert Jackson of Nashville, Tenn., will be withthe Lake Wire church in Lakeland, Florida, October 23-30. Services nightly at 7:30 except Sunday which will be at 6:00 p.m. This good church continues togrow and remain strong in the Lord. The first reportI made for this church was thirty- four years ago. I tell young preachers that if I had my life to live over, I would pick out a good congregation and settle downfor life. E. Paul Price, Tyler, Texas — On September 5, 6,7, 8 brother Elmer Moore will be in a debate withbrother Ronnie Wade in Fredrick, Okla. This debatewill cover classes, Women teachers, and the cup (container) question. This debate will be the result of ameeting that I conducted in Fredrick this past Marchfor the brethren who meet at 19th and Calla streets.We moved to Tyler, Texas in June to work with thechurch meeting at 3117 Garden Valley Road. Things look good for a good growth in the future. We arefollowing brother Robert L. McDonald in the workhere. Would bulletin exchanges please notice new address: E. Paul Price, 404 Bandera Drive, Tyler,Texas 75701.
Robert M. Atkinson, Monticello, Ky. — I was with the Oil Valley church in Wayne County, Ky., in a tentmeeting July 20-29. Ten were baptized into Christduring the meeting and the great interest in theWord of God which was manifested throughout themeeting was truly exceptional. The Oil Valley church has been encouraged to launch the plans for a muchneeded new building. This is the home county of"Raccoon" John Smith. The people of God here havea rich heritage and bright prospects. All five of thecongregations in the county are faithful to the Lord.
A MEETING AT HAYNES ST. IN DAYTON — and some results —
Dudley R. Spears, Oklahoma City, Okla.
It was my privilege to preach in a meeting at theHaynes & Parrott Sts. church of Christ in Dayton,Ohio. The congregation is one of the oldest in theOhio Valley. Through the years she has sufferedabuse and misrepresentation. She has done much good for the cause in assisting smaller congregationsand establishing other churches in that area. Backin 1958 or 1959 she had to withdraw from a disorderly member who had abandoned the church andrefused to worship with the saints. Everything hadbeen done to try to restore the erring one, but to noavail. The person then went to another congregation and was accepted into full membership withoutrepenting of her sins. The Haynes St. brethren, intheir effort to do what was right and to show thesebrethren that they were wrong in accepting thiswithdrawn from members, made a statement to theeffect that they were "withdrawing fellowship" from that congregation. This was a poor choice of wordsand has been the occasion for much misunderstanding, misrepresentation and heartache in that areasince.
During our meeting, I spoke on the subject of "fellowship" which was followed by a "question andanswer period" and the brethren concurred in thelack of wisdom and judgment in making such astatement, which had been twisted and perverted byher enemies. Thus, they made public their withdrawal of such a statement. A letter had alreadybeen sent to all congregations involved, asking that all previous letters on the subject of fellowship bedisregarded. They also fortified this withdrawal orretraction of the statement in an open meeting atHaynes St. on Wednesday night following our gospel meeting. The Haynes St. brethren have been ableto take the misrepresentations and "smear campaigns" without retaliation in kind. They are a goodgroup of God's children with a bright future.
Some months ago, some agitators within thechurch at Haynes St. began a movement to split the church. They were aided by the local preacher whocharged the Haynes St. church with erroneous teaching, viz., "Haynes St. has become a little Vatican" in the Dayton area. A group formed after withholding their contributions for several weeks and thenwent out as a group to form a congregation. Therewas no need to form a faction as they did, for thereare a number of good sound churches in that areawhere they would have been welcomed.
During the open meeting on last Wednesday evening, both congregations were present. The statement "withdraw fellowship from another congregation" was discussed and retracted. At the conclusion of the service, the preacher for the faction,repented of the false charges he had leveled against Haynes St. Several of them made vain efforts tojustify the division over "bad attitudes" or "minorskirmishes" and the like. They did not answer thequestion put to them on why they did not simplyidentify with another sound church, rather thanform a faction.
Haynes St. is filled with God-fearing people whoface the future with great opportunities beforethem. The State of Ohio purchased their presentlocation for a "clover-leaf" approach to the newsuper-highway which passes through Dayton. Theyhave purchased lots on which to build an accommodative and attractive building. They need a goodpreacher soon. May God bless them and their kindbecause they are among some of God's finest.
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Jerry Parker, Centralia, Mo. — Beginning September 4th I will be working full time with thechurch in Centralia, Mo. I would like to receive bulletins from other congregations. My address is:Jerry Parker, 113 So. Jefferson Ave., Centralia, Mo.
Brent Lewis, Culver City, Calif. — After two years work with the church in Culver City, California, I shall be moving to Eau Gallie, Florida, totake up the work with the good church there. Mynew address will be: 1189 Firthview Drive, EauGallie, Fla. 32935. We look forward to returning toFlorida. I held a meeting in August with the church in Sacramento, California, where Don Bassett preaches. Through the many efforts of the membersthere (52 strong), there were 28 non-members present during +he meeting.
J. Frank Ingram, Blue Ash, Ohio — I recentlyclosed a meeting in Plattsburgh, New York with five responses, three of which were baptized. This congregation is made up entirely by servicemen whoworship in town and who are doing a good job in this virgin field. I also just finished preaching-in a meeting at Bagdad, Florida where brother Al Watkins is preaching. They have made wonderful progress in the last few years and I firmly believe willeven do a great deal more in this area for the causeof the Lord. Several of the congregations in thePensacola area supported the meeting and othernearby places which was appreciated. There weretwo responses, one baptized.
Ralph W. Lewis, Albany, Ga. — It was recentlybrought to my attention that many brethren seemnot to know that a sound congregation now meetsat Albany, Georgia. The Central church of Christnow meets, temporarily, at 231 North JacksonStreet, and has for the past thirteen months. TheValley View congregation of Athens, Alabama furnishes my support with assistance from the RoseHill church of Columbus, Georgia. This enables us to devote our full time to the work. We are small in number but are of good courage. Brother Glenn Pye,who is exceptionally well versed in the Scriptures,recently took a stand with us.
R. D. Simmons, Sr., P. O. Box 1973, Victoria, Texas — The church formerly known as the NorthStreet church here in Victoria is not worshipping intheir new building located on Glascow Street, in theNorthcrest addition, just three blocks off the Hallettsville Highway 77. The new building is locatedjust outside the present city limits, in a new RealEstate development; but will be taken into the citylimits within a few months. Our building is in agood location and is in the growing part of the city.
H. H. Webb of Sinton, Texas was the contractor.From the beginning of my work here in January,1964, the church in Edna, Texas has contributed almost half of my support, and continues to do so. During this time the churches at Spring Branch in Houston, Refugio, and Seadrift, Texas also contributed to my support. In the past two years we have lost over 40 and faithful members by moving away, which hindered our numerical growth. However, we do havea strong group of saints with which to work, andour future looks bright.
Larry Devore, Wooster, Ohio — A church patterned after the New Testament order is meeting inCharleston, West Virginia and is in need of a gospelpreacher. I have agreed to move there on or beforeOctober 1st. These brethren are not able to furnish all of my support. If any are able and willing to help, please let me know. Opposition from the liberalchurches in the Charleston area is great. Please remember us in your prayers. For more informationcontact me at 569 Skylark Ave., Wooster, Ohio44691.
Jack Gibbert, Myrtle Beach, S. C. — We have justfinished a. meeting with Alton Elliott of Jesup, Georgia in which two were baptized and a number ofcontacts were made. We have exceeded the size of the "liberal" group in Myrtle Beach as of this month.The church here continues to grow and prosperboth physically and spiritually. I will be in need ofsupport for this work beginning January 1, 1967.I have the brethren's confidence and they haveagreed to support me 1007' for the month of December so that I can travel around the country andget my support. I will be willing to stop and talkwith any individual or church that expresses aninterest in this work. The church here can supply25 A of my support. We have grown from an attendance of 9 when we first met in January of 1965to an attendance of over 30 now. The nearest conservative group to us is 100 miles, Charleston, andI preach for them once each month.
Robert J. LaCoste, Glendale, Ariz. — On July 15ththe Glendale church sent me to assist the brethren at Fairview, Jamesport, and Hallesville, Missouri in a series of mission meetings continuing throughAugust 21st. Eight were baptized and good attendance from the local citizens prevailed at all threemeetings. Brother Earl Fly of Jackson, Tennessee,will be with us in a meeting October 23-30, 1966. The work in Glendale continues to progress at a slowbut steady pace. So far this year ten have beenbaptized, four restored and sixteen to identify themselves with us. Several faithful families moved away.
Kent Harrell, 1012 Roosevelt Drive, Camden, S.C.29020 — The church in Camden is having a gospelmeeting October 17-23 with Bob Bunting of Lafayette, N.J., doing the preaching. Bob worked with thischurch about sixteen years ago, and is well knownand respected in this area. The church here continues to grow, and as of two and one half yearsago, is completely self-supporting. I would appreciate being put on a bulletin exchange with those puttingout a bulletin.
OVERCOMING OBJECTIONS
The objections to one's becoming a personal worker runs into large proportions. Likewise, efforts to organize a systematic personal work program withinthe framework of the local church meets opposition.Objections have their good points and their badpoints. For some, any form of opposition discourages the fulfilling of the tasks that need to be performed.For others, objections create a challenge to re-think and re-appraise the scripturalness and effectivenessof our work. Due to limitations of space, this writingwill concern itself with an appraisal of some of themore serious objections, in an effort to demonstratethat organized personal evangelism within the framework of the local church is a scriptural expediency.Though we will meet obstacles in our efforts to organize personal work classes, we must not becomediscouraged. Many collectives of God's people areshowing more and more concern for this type of
work. While emphasis is being placed upon planned personal evangelism in this series of articles, one is not
to conclude that other methods are not equally im
portant. The writer believes this area is neglected
and is trying, in these writings to create interest in
door to door teaching. The prayer is that this ap
proach to evangelism will be used to the greatest
extent possible. This is an effective way to reach the
lost (Acts 8:4; 20:21-22).
PERSONAL WORK PROGRAMS ARE GIMMICKS
Occasionally brethren are heard expressing mistrust in organized efforts, labeling them "high pressure gimmicks" to be shunned and avoided. Whilethere are instances where over-zealous brethren have abused this method of teaching, and have used cottage meeting training classes and visitation programs as embellishments and ornamentations, wemust not conclude all efforts to organize personalevangelism within the local church have base motives behind them. The abuse of a thing does notdemonstrate its scripturalness or unscripturalness.This can only be determined by the New Testament.Therefore, we should not allow these modern dayGeshems to not draw us from the wall of activity bywasting our time in the "ecclesiastical" plains ofOno. We should realize that just«because one raisesan objection, this does not mean that these effortsare unscriptural. There are some brethren who aregoing to raise objections no matter what we do. Forsome, nothing is scriptural except what they themselves call scriptural. The needs of personal evangelism are too great, and the results too abundant andgratifying to allow ourselves to become frightened
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from doing what we know "to be the will of the Lord
(Matt. 28:18-19). If handled in a proper manner,
efforts toward personal evangelism are not gimmicks
no more than the other functional arrangements of
the local church that are carried on in a collective
manner.
The church is the pillar and the ground of the
truth (I Tim. 3:15). Individuals are under instruc
tions from the Lord to preach the gospel to the world
(Matt. 28:20). As long as the word of God is taught
(I Pet. 4:11), various expedients may be used to
carry out that command, whether collectively or in
dividually. Class arrangements, classes designed to
teach others to teach, cottage meetings, etc. are all
aids to the teaching included in the command
"teach." We should maintain good effective personal
work teaching programs. All such arrangements car
ried on within the framework of the local church are
certainly legitimate functions. It is a mistake to
label all such efforts as "gimmicks."
NOTHING BUT A MEANS OF PRODDING THE BRETHREN
Another objection often heard is that "cottagemeeting classes are nothing but tools for proddingthe brethren into doing what they should be doingalready." If brethren "have to be prodded, then theyare not converted to Christ," we are told. The conclusion is then drawn that personal work classes,zoned visitation, etc. are not needed. If we strike outthe prejudicial phrase, "tool," it will be admittedthat organized personal work does serve to prod thebrethren, but it prods them to accept their personalresponsibility. Is it sinful to prod brethren? Websterdefines the term as simply that of inciting to actionor stirring one up. The New Testament commandsus to exhort and to stir each other up (Heb. 6:1-3; 12:1-7; II Pet. 1:13 ; 3:1-2). The very fact that Peter wrote to the "elect" scattered throughout Pontus,Galatia, etc. and sought to stir up their pure mindsby remembrance, demonstrates that the need forsuch action is not necessarily a sign of non-conversion. The term "exhort" denotes the idea of urgingforward, "to stimulate to the discharge of the ordinary duties of life" (Vine, Vol. 2, P. 26). Plannedvisitation and personal work, like other functionalarrangements of the local church, present an excellent opportunity for brethren to fulfill their God-given desires to share the gospel with others.
ENCOURAGES LAXITY WITH REFERENCE
TO PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Those who offer this objection are those who object to planned personal work because it is ORGANIZED. They feel it is another step "toward organizedreligion," and that such action causes the Christian"to feel that they have no work to do until assigneda work by the elders." Taking first things first, weraise this question: what about the matter of organizing a personal work program within the localchurch under the oversight of the elders? It has been demonstrated over and over that when the work of the local church is operated haphazardly, without design, direction, or aim, the inevitable result is chaosand confusion. Those who are trying to work outtheir salvation are filled with heartache and despairwhen such energies are wasted. "Whatever is worthdoing at all is worth doing right," is an old adage.
Those who seek to carry out the plan of God in personal evangelism should do so in an orderly fashion, "for God is not the author of confusion, but of peace"(I Cor. 14:33). Systematizing the personal work as afunctional arrangement within the church or collective of God's people conforms to the principle of decency and order (I Cor. 14:4). Poorly arranged efforts encourages idleness and haphazardness (Rom.13:14; I Thess. 3:12). Carelessly organized work isthe result of slothfulness on the part of many preachers, teachers and elders. The Lord commands us notto be "slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord" (Rom. 12:11). There are entirely too manyhaphazard, hit-or-miss approaches to our personalevangelistic efforts. This accounts for the ineffectiveness of so many.
The fact remains, individual Christians do have aresponsibility apart from joint or collective action.They should seek to carry out that function withouthaving to be told what to do by the elders. However,a greater portion of the brethren are not lazy andindifferent. They simply lack know-how. With a little guidance and instruction, these brethren overcometheir feelings of inadequacy. Well planned personalwork does not encourage laxity. It is a guarantee of
success.
CONCLUSION
Other objections could be taken into consideration,
but these are sufficient for the time being. Let us
recognize the urgent need in the church today, name
ly, the need for brethren who can and will talk to
others about their need to obey the gospel of Jesus
Christ. "He that winneth souls is wise" (Prov.
11:30).
In the recent issue of the Tampa Tribune, (July30) is an article on Religion and Science by Dr.Wernher von Braun. I consider Dr. Braun one of our leading scientists if not the leading. He is to be highlycommended for some of his statements, such as:"Through science, men strive to learn more of themysteries of creation. Through Religion, he seeksto know the Creator — Neither operates independently." Many other wonderful statements were madewhich this space will not permit mentioning.
I write this article not to criticize but to warn those who might be inclined to accept Dr. Braun'sscientific views as a basis for Religion. Webster'sDictionary defines religion as, "The service and adoration of God, or a God as expressed in forms of worship." This Dr. Braun has expressed very emphatically.
False religions may come under, at least, two types:Atheism and Deism. Webster's Dictionary definesAtheism: "The belief that there is no God," Deism:"The belief that God exists — that reason is sufficient to prove the existence of God with the consequentrejection of revelation and authority." Both of these
forms of religion are highly prevalent as well asevident in our Educational systems. Not once, to myobservation, did Dr. Braun mention the Bible (Therevelation). He accepts religion through faith butdoes not state the source of that faith. "I find assurance in the concept of the fatherhood of God.For ethical (moral) guidance, I rely on the corollaryconcept of the brotherhood of man." To those familiar with Ancient history, the brotherhood of manwas taught by the Stoics, prior to the Christian era."Virtue, said the Stoics, consists in living accordingto nature." They exalted reason as a guide to conduct.(Webster's Ancient History, page 299).
The ethical concepts in religion today come fromthe teachings of Jesus, recorded in the New Testament although many refuse to accept the origin."— it is one of the greatest tragedies of our timesthat science and religion have been cast as antagonists" (Braun) Thanks, Dr. Braun, for this wonderfulstatement. David postulated the same concepts, agesago, Psalm 19.
We believe in two Realms, Natural and Spiritual.Both are of Divine origin. God provided the NaturalLaws and left man to discover their operations. However, the spiritual laws are found in the Bible. It istrue we must accept our spiritual life by faith. Theorigin of this faith is not in Physical laws nor scientific achievements but in the Word of God, Rom.
10:17. Not many scientists will admit such.
All Religion is not Christianity. Deism is as farfrom the Truth as Atheism. The only hope for immortality is found in the Word of God, the Bible.We must accept it by faith. Nature does not teachGod. It just reveals the glories of God. We know Godfrom the Bible. We accept this knowledge by faith.
In the August 1966 issue of SEARCHING THESCRIPTURES, brother J. T. Smith asked, "Is ItRight For Women To Speak In The Assembly?"I appreciate brother Smith, and commend his work,but I feel compelled to answer his question with aresounding: NO! It isn't right for women to speakin the assembly. Brother Smith wrote that I Cor.14:34-35 does not apply to Christian women today.He further states:
"You will note that in the chapter, Paul is talkingabout spiritual gifts. I believe the context will bearout the fact that just SOME of the women were tokeep silent in the assemblies, for the following reasons.
- These were women who had husbands (I Cor.14:35). It would not, then, apply to women whodid not have husbands.
- It would prohibit women from speaking in songas Paul instructed (Eph. 5:19).
- It would prohibit women from making a publicconfession of Christ in the assembly even
though Christ commanded that it be before
other people (Matt. 10:32).
Thus, if this prohibition for women to speak inthe assemblies, the above things that all people areto do would be meaningless."
In No. 1 above brother Smith concludes that I Cor. 14:34-35 applies only to married women because "husbands" are mentioned in the text. Later in his article he seems to indicate that only theprophets' wives are under consideration. If we areto conclude that I Cor. 14:34-35 applies only to married women, then I Tim. 2:11-15 would also haveto apply only to married women because it mentionsthe Adam-Eve arrangement and further says thatthe woman would be saved by her child-bearing. Brother Smith commented on I Tim. 2:12 and saysthat "man cannot allow her to do something GODHAS FORBIDDEN." I fear that is just what brotherSmith has done in his explanation of I Cor. 14:34-35. God has forbidden that women speak in assemblies."God has said that it "is shameful for a woman to speak in the church." Brother Smith says that shemay "ask questions or speak after the lesson in theassembly." (See the last paragraph of his articlein SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES.)
In No. 2 and No. 3 above, brother Smith uses a
type of reasoning that seems to forbid married
women to sing or make a confession in the assembly.
If that isn't his point of contrast, as he compares
these women with other women, then I fail to
understand what his point is. I personally believe
that I Cor. 14:34-35 applied to all women in the
assembly in the first century, and still applies to all
women in the assembly in the twentieth century.
All women may sing or make a public confession in the assembly BECAUSE the Bible says so. Eph.
5:19 and Matt. 10:32. But where is the authorityfor any woman to ask questions or otherwise speakin the assembly? I Cor. 14:34-45 doesn't offer it.And that I Cor. 14 applies to all women is evidentfrom the following two statements: "But let thembe in subjection, as also saith the law" . . . "For itis shameful for a woman to speak in the church."Prophets' wives, other Christians' wives, and unmarried women alike. It is a shame for them to speak in the church; they are to be in subjection, as alsosaith the law. All women are to be in subjection. I Tim. 2:11 "Let a woman learn in quietness withall subjection."
Brother Smith said that I Cor. 14:34-35 "would not, then, apply to women who did not have husbands." So according to this, the passage doesn'tmean anything to an unmarried woman. Furthermore, it would have the opposite meaning to unmarried women. It would read thusly, "As in all thechurches of the saints, let the unmarried womenspeak in the churches: for it is permitted untothem to speak; for they are not in subjection, asthe law teaches. And if they would learn anything,let them ask in the church assembly, since theyhave no husband at home: for it is not shameful for an unmarried woman to speak in the church."
A Unique, Astounding, Appalling, and Often Entertaining Analysis of Basic Catholic Belief on Questions "of ItsAuthority — on Papal, Sacramental, Biblical (Really Anti-Biblical), and Sacerdotal (Priestly) Authority and Practices
— Analyzed Almost Entirely through a Study of OfficialCurrent Catholic Literature (Really the Only Way To Handlea Religion Which Gives Itself the Right of EvolutionaryChange in Its Doctrinal Positions) — A Monumental Job of Research — But for All That as Fascinating Reading asYou Are Likely to Come Across— Full of Alternately Naiveand Cynical Self-Contradictions, Breathtaking Absurdities,and Chilling Liberalism and Modernism — A Veritable Encyclopedia of Up-to-date, Authoritative Information Unavailable Elsewhere — A Companion Volume to CATHOLICISM AGAINST ITSELF. Volume I, a Similarly DocumentedGeneral Survey of Catholicism, an Enormously PopularBook, which has gone through eight editions.
$4.50 Volume I — $4.50 Volume II Both Volumes — $8.00
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BOOK-MILLER DEBATE
"Instrumental Music In Worship"
Morris Butler Book of the Christian Church and James Parker Miller of the church of Christ discussed the question of instrumental music in the worship in the Howard High School auditorium in Orlando, Florida, March 15, 16, 17, 1955. Large crowds heard every session of this debate. It is one of the finest in print. This book is the debate exactly as it was presented by Book and Miller.
Cloth bound - $2.50
GOOD BOOKS FOR YOUR LIBRARY
Boswell-Hardeman Debate (Instrumental Music) 3.50 Porter-Tingley Debate (Direct operation of the Holy Spirit, Necessity of Baptism and Salvation by Faith Only) ................................................................3.50 The Genesis Flood (Henry M. Morris & John C.
Whitcomb) ..........................................................6.95 The Search For The Ancient Order, Vol. I & II, each 4.00 Alexander Campbell's Tour In Scotland (Chal mers) ...............................................-.....................................2.00 The Harding-Nichols Debate (Salvation & Baptism:
The Subject, Action and Design) .........................2.50The Campbell-Rice Debate on Baptism ................. 6.00Larimore And His Boys (Srygley) ...........................3.50Biography of J. T. Johnson (John Rogers) ...........3.50Biography of N. B. Hardeman ................................3.75New Commentary On Romans (Grubbs) .............2.50The Witness Of The Spirits (Zachary) ..................3.00The Nashville Debate: Moody -Harding (Baptism
and Work of the Holy Spirit) .............................5.00 History Of Reformatory Movements (Rowe) .......5.00 Biblical Criticism (J . W. McGarvey) .....................3.50 The Kingdom Of Promis e And Prophecy (R . L.
Whiteside) ...........................................................2.50 The Christian Baptist (Campbell) Vols. 1 through 7, each ........................................................................3.50 Communism, Its Faith and Fallacies (James D.
Bales) ....................................................................3.00Churches of Today (L . G. Tomlinson) ...................2.50Fox's Book of Martyrs ..............................................3.00Mormonism Expos ed (Hancock) ...........................2.25
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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.
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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
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