WORLDLINESS IN THE CHURCH

That something is wrong in the church in many

sections today no one will deny who knows the facts.

The party spirit, railing contentions, angry charges and

little or no spiritual progress characterizes many

congregations across this land. This is a shameful and

disgraceful conduct of professed children of God. It is

setting us back in evangelism to the point that our

great grand-children will be suffering from the influence

of this evil among us. Why does all this have to be? Is

there nothing we can do to correct the perverse spirit

that has developed this condition?

It is not reasonable to assume that factions exist simply because men do not want to have peace and harmony in the church. A few people might delight to have disturbances, but the great majority would delight to have unity and peace. The only thing is, they are not willing to accept the basis of this unity and peace. Just as the Galatians had been moved to "another gospel", religious people today in general andparticularly in the church, since we are considering thepeople of God in this article, are moved away from the gospel of the Son of God. The divided condition amongus today does not stem from the New Testament, butfrom a disregard of it.

The word "worldliness" is usually used to refer to those immoral and evil acts in society. The word,however, includes much more than that. James said: "Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that thefriendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoevertherefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God" (James 4:4). Jesus said of his apostles: "They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world" (John17:16).

From these verses we rightly conclude that the church and the world must be kept apart and the worldly influence must not be allowed to get into thechurch if it is to remain of the Lord. But in spite of thiswarning from the New Testament, worldly influenceshave crept into the churches in many sections and aretolerated just as the case of fornication in the church atCorinth. But how does this cause factions and trouble among brethren?

Worldliness does not consist only of immoral practices, but also includes actions that originated byworldly standards and wisdom. We have practices thatwere invented by worldly minded men and women, suchas the observing of special days of worship. Many ofthese grow out of pagan and Jewish rites. The schemesand systems built upon worldly organizations show theinfluence of worldly wisdom in many churches.

Worldliness also includes the low standards of morality. This is shown in the disgraceful dress of women who appear on the streets today. The conduct ofyoung people of the church often indicate the low standards of their parents. Drinking, dancing, cursing,gambling and the like go on among those in the churchjust as freely as if the law of the Lord taught it on everypage. The fact that many will excuse and justify thisconduct in the church separates them from those whowill not endorse it. Worldliness in the church turns the mind from spiritual things to fleshly lusts. This is thedifference between life and death according to Romans8:6,7.

Worldliness is shown in the denominational compromise of many in the church today. The desireto have the praise of men in general, plus the desire toease the resistance against denominational doctrines,has led to a sort of truce, a compromise. The social concept of the gospel that has long been a part ofdenominationalism has become the concept of manybrethren. The emphasis on wealth, buildings, customsand ritualism is so much a part of our thinking that ithas become difficult to distinguish between the churchof the Lord and the churches of men. The willingness ofsome preachers and elders to mimic denominationalismin organizations and observance of special days and rites has forced the compromise to the point that thereis no return in some sections.

The idea of compromise is always agreement "by concession." One gives something to get something.Compromise with the world or with the religions of menis scripturally impossible with the New Testament church. What can we concede that is characteristic of the Lord's church without destroying some part of thedivine institution? If such could be done, who has theauthority to make such concessions? No one! Compromise has always led to apostasy, and unless westop the compromise with the world in this respect, wewill be lost.

Divisions result from these conditions of worldliness. The church will never be what the Lord wants it to be unless these situations are corrected. You and I as members of that one body can be "living stones" that will not become of the world and change the building ofGod into a building of Satan, whose end is destruction.Let us strive to keep the church pure and free from thedefilement of man's wisdom.

Worldliness stems from the state of mind of the individual. This is determined by whether the mind isled by the spirit or the flesh (Rom. 8:1-14). As the mindis directed by the flesh the actions of the individual,religiously or otherwise, will be of the flesh and condemned by the Lord.

EDITORIAL STEW

Every now and then it seems good to take a month in this column to catch up on some things which seemto fit nowhere else—things which do not require long articles, yet need to be said.

The Work of an Evangelist It is absolutely amazing to see the lack of understanding some brethren have about the Lord's work. Since resigning from local work a few monthsago and devoting most of my time to gospel meetings,several have commented "So, you are just doing thework of an evangelist now?" Well, yes, but I was alsodoing that when I was a "local" preacher. The workof an evangelist has nothing to do with suitcases andtravel nor how long a man stays in one place. The workof an evangelist is the work of preaching the gospel.One good sister wrinkled up her nose and asked "Do you really like what you are doing now?" Yes, of course.If I did not like preaching the gospel, I would stop doing it. Indeed, every faithful preacher likes it when it comes time to stand up before an audience with an open Bible to "break the bread of life." That time comes often for me and I thank God for every open door.

Papers

Eugene Britnell, who formerly wrote a very popularcolumn in this paper, has revived THE SOWER and enlarged it to a sixteen page monthly. The first issueslook good and contain worthwhile material. Subscription price is $4 a year. Address him at P.O. Box 5624, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205. Whatever Eugene writes is worth considering and we are sure youwill get your money's worth.

The GOSPEL GUARDIAN is now being edited byJames W. Adams, a long-time friend and brother (though no relation in the flesh). It looks good and contains good reading. It is published semi-monthlyand costs $7 a year. Address: P.O. Box 1586, Lufkin,Texas 75901.

Occasionally, we hear some brother say "I can't afford to take any of the papers you brethren publish."It is hard to take such a fellow seriously. He will subscribe to sport and farm magazines, spend $500 ormore for a color television set, take a daily metropolitan newspaper for which we will spend $50 a year, but hecannot afford from $4 to $7 for a good paper which willbring needed spiritual help into his home. The truth ofthe matter is that for the annual rate of a metropolitannewspaper, you can take ALL the papers published byfaithful brethren. Some of the papers are in a financial bind which would be relieved by a healthy increase insubscriptions. Sometimes people want to send a gift tosome esteemed friend or relative. What better gift couldyou send them than a year's subscription to this orsome other good paper?

Where He Was Supposed To Be

It was worth the whole trip, the effort of dailypreaching and a week away from home. The meeting was at Grandview in Tompkinsville, Kentucky. A brother Smith, 91 years of age and hard of hearing attended every service. He leaned on his cane in the vestibule and spoke to folks as they came in. Duringthe service he sat on the end of the bench, center aisle, second row and leaned forward toward the speaker withhis hand cupped to his ear and never took his eyes offthe speaker. He never acted sleepy. He explained to meeach night that he could only catch about half of what was being said. When I commended his worthy example he gave me a surprised look and said "I waswhere I was supposed to be." He went on to say that hewanted to encourage the preacher. He did exactly that.

Debate To Be Published

The recent debate between J. T. Smith and Glen Lovelady in California on the ever-troublesome question of marriage, divorce and remarriage will beput into print in paperback. That will keep the cost inreach of everyone. It is reported that much local interest was shown and that the deportment of speakers and audience was excellent. This issue arises throughout the country and the circulation ofthis printed discussion should be of great help to brethren in studying the matter. We expect to see a wide circulation of this debate. Contact J. T. Smith about advance orders. Tape recordings of the debateare also available from Dr. Ken Embry, Clarkson, KY42726. We plan to carry some material from BrotherSmith on this subject, using some of his charts, in future issues of this paper.

The July Special

Orders are coming in for our July special issue onMORALS UNDER FIRE. If there was ever a time when help was needed on moral issues, it is NOW.Never before has Biblical morality been so despised andrejected. Many Christians have fallen into the Devil's snare and our nation as a whole is in grave danger ofdestroying itself through moral corruption. This specialwill sell for $35 per 100 copies. May we have your order?Send it to P.O. Box 68, Brooks, Kentucky 40109.

Meeting Our Readers

Readers of SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES greetus everywhere we go. Some drive great distances to attend meetings and always remember to speak a fewkind words about the paper. This means a great deal tous and sort of makes up for some of the complaints wereceive. Readers who have been with us a long time nearly always ask about H. E. Phillips and his healthand commend the excellent work he did with the paperfor so long. Though he still has to limit his activitiesmore than he would like, he is better than he was forsometime and is able to attend to his local work in Tampa and is beginning to take up a little more meeting work. We are pleased to have several good articles from his pen and you will be seeing himregularly on the front page of this paper. May will find us in meetings at Hazelwood, Missouri (2-7); Hammond, Indiana (16-21) and Macdale (near Fairview), West Virginia (24-30). In June we are to be in Fort Smith, Arkansas (46th St.) (6-11); BaldKnob, Ark. (13-18); and Martinsville, Virginia (2127). July will take us to Las Vegas, Nevada (12-18)and Tigrett, Tennessee (near Dyersburg) (26-August 1).We hope to greet many friends in these places.

About James P. Miller

Many readers may not know that James P. Miller suffered heart failure and other complications in mid-March and is hospitalized in Cocoa, Florida. He was inintensive care for sometime in a struggle for his life. Atthis writing (March 30) he is much improved and off thecritical list. Let brethren everywhere beseech the Almighty to spare this faithful servant of God. Yourwords of encouragement would mean a great deal tohim and to his good wife, Bobbie. Address them at1111 Hickory Lane, Cocoa, Florida 32922.

How You Can Help Us Stay In Business If all subscribers would renew on time, without having to be sent a final statement, it would save considerable money over the year. Every first classstamp costs 130, not to mention the cost of envelopesand statement forms and the time element. Postal rates (and very poor service in many cases) are making ithard on all periodicals. Please renew on time and takethe pressure off of us. Also, from now on it will benecessary to charge the current rate in all cases where a final notice has to be sent. If you began under a groupor club plan and receive a reduced rate, you will forfeitthis by not renewing on time. So, you will save money for yourself and for us by prompt renewal. By the way,when you renew, why not subscribe for a friend or two at the same time?

NEW TESTAMENT ESCHATOLOGY

Eschatology is that branch of religious science which deals with the ultimate condition of mankind and of the world. It includes such last things as the Resurrection,Judgment, and the creation of New Heavens and a NewEarth. The Greek word eschata means, last things.There are Bible students who attach to this a broader definition to embrace not only the ABSOLUTELY LAST THINGS but also all which are in relation to the present, may be regarded as last, i.e., ALL THAT ATTEND AND FOLLOW THIS PRESENT CHRISTIAN DISPENSATION.

The premillennial concept of eschatology involves inits scope a period termed as the "Glorious Era" whichwill supersede the Church Age. Almost all the Scriptures used (or misused) are taken from the OldTestament except for a few New Testament passagesused out of context or otherwise, here and there. Thatsuch predictive utterances from the Old Testament are yet to be fulfilled within the purview of a broader eschatological teaching will be shown to be utterly FALSE in this treatise. Consequently, and in this perspective, the alleged systematic teaching of Eschatology in the Old Testament is unfounded. Similarly, the so-called Eschatology of the Intertestament Period is without basis. (The Jewish nation looked forward only to the earthly andmaterialistic fulfillment of the Messianic prophecies.)Such designations therefore as Eschatology I (of theOld Testament), Eschatology II (of the IntertestamentPeriod), and Eschatology III (of the New Testament),become superfluous in this discussion. Strictly speaking, it is the New Testament which gives us knowledge about the last things and which may beproperly called New Testament Eschatology.

Fulfillment Of Old Testament Prophecies

In Hebrews 1:1 and 2, we are given a view of the scope of Old Testament revelation affirmed in its predictions. "God, having of old time spoken unto the fathers in the prophets by divers portions and indivers manners, hath at the end of these days spokenunto us in his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things ___" God's Son, Jesus Christ is HEIR OF ALL THINGS or the recipient of all the things spoken by theprophets through different methods and in parts atdivers times. These utterances may be divided into twoparts, i.e., those that pertain to the historical portion ofthe Old Testament, being fulfilled up to the last prophet (Malachi) and those that pertain to Christ's redemptive work, being fulfilled in the GospelDispensation. The former is inviolably connected to thelatter in that the historical development of God's people(fleshly Israel) during the Old Testament period set thestage for the coming of the Lord to the world. The ALLTHINGS then revealed by the men of God are fulfilledin Him.

In all of God's predictions and promises in the Old Testament, there is what may be termed as the THREEFOLD PROMISES. Only three and nothingmore! These are the land promised to Abraham and hisseed after him; the restoration promise; and the spiritual promise. To some, there is a fourth, which isthe "future restoration" idea for fleshly Israel. This is afantasy of the mind based on misapplications of God'swords. As a matter of fact, they themselves would notaccept the import of this theory. The word restorationimplies not just a mere return to the land of Palestine.It means the restitution of old Israel's uniquenationality and the re-establishment of their discardedsystem of laws and ordinances—which is through and through Judaism. I do not believe that anyone wouldbe prepared to admit this, including the present Jewishpeople today! Would they for one, assent to the reallotment of the lands given to the tribes of Israel in theconquest and settlement at the time of Joshua? It wasduring this period of Israel's history that the land promise was fulfilled. Joshua 21:43 records, "So Jehovah gave unto Israel all the land which he sware to give unto their fathers; and they possessed it, anddwelt therein." Then in Nehemiah 9:7-8, it was writtenthat God performed all of His promises. The restorationpromise was fulfilled in the decree of Cyrus. The Babylonian captives were released and allowed to return to their homeland after seventy (70) years fromthe invasion of Nebuchadnezzar. (See Jer. 16:14, 15;25:11-13; 2 Chron. 36:20-23 and Ezra 1:1-4.) The thirdand last—the spiritual promise, was fulfilled in Christ(Gal. 3:8, 16). Peter confirmed this, "Yea and all the prophets from Samuel and them that followed after, asmany as have spoken, they also told of these days. Yeare the sons of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with your fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the families of theearth be blessed" (Acts 3:24, 25; Consider further, Gal.3:26-29). Paul says in Romans 9:7,8, ". . . it is not the children of the flesh that are children of God; but the children of the promise are reckoned for a seed."

The Hope Of Israel

The Intertestament Period in the history of thepeople of Israel does not show that the people lookedforward to the blessed hope of the Christ's second coming when the resurrected saints in glorious bodieswill enjoy the blissful state in communion with God inthe new heavens and new earth. The fickle disposition of the Jewish nation led Jesus to Calvary. Peter said,

"Let all the house of Israel therefore know assuredly,that God hath made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom ye crucified" (Acts 2:36). The question is,Why were the people so wroth against Jesus? Goingback to

the "Gospels," we find that at the beginning of Hisministry, they were so carried by the mighty works andsayings which He did among them. Then just beforeHis martyrdom, their confidence in Him reached itsapex and seemed concomitant with their false hope,that is, the restoration of their nation to its former glory. "When therefore the people saw the sign which hedid, they said, This is of a truth the prophet that comethinto the world. Jesus therefore perceiving that they wereabout to come and take him by force, to make him aking, withdrew again into the mountains himself alone"(John 6:14,15). Their hope being dashed to pieces, thereaction is easy to understand. Even the apostles whom the Lord diligently instructed during His personal ministry had difficulties in understanding thenature of "the kingdom of the Son of his love." This was before Jesus' ascension and the coming of the Holy Spirit. They inquired, "... Lord, dost thou at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?" Again, the apostlePaul had his share of this misguided hope so ingrainedin the hearts of the Jewish people during the early partof the Christian Dispensation. Let us consider these passages, "And now I stand here to be judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers; unto which promise our twelve tribes, earnestly serving God night and day, hope to attain. And concerning this hope I am accused by the Jews, O King!" Then, "And when we entered into Rome, Paul was suffered to abide by himself with the soldier thatguarded him. And it came to pass, that after threedays he called together those that were the chief of theJews: and when they were come together, he saidunto them, I, brethren, though I had done nothingagainst the people, or the customs of our fathers, yetwas delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the handsof the Romans; who, when they had examined me,desired to set me at liberty, because there was nocause of death in me. But when the Jews spake againstit, I was constrained to appeal unto Caesar; not that Ihad aught whereof to accuse my nation. For this causetherefore did I entreat you to see and speak with me:for because of the hope of Israel I am bound with thischain" (Acts 26:6, 7; 28:16-20). We can see from this inspired statement that Paul was not preaching whatthe Jews believed and wanted him to preach as concerns the hope of Israel. Else, they would not havesubjected him to persecutions. The hope of Israel thenwas in connection with the immediate restoration of their previous fleshly kingdom. Not the ultimate (lastthings) manifestation in glory of all the redeemed throughout eternity.

The Second Coming Of Christ

To this evolve all the serene and wonderful predictions of last things as revealed in the New Testament. The second coming of our Lord takes a large portion of His teachings including those of Hischosen ambassadors and other inspired writers. In this instant study, let us take notice of 2 Peter 3:1-14.Peter takes his readers ahead to the time of Jesus' second coming. Verses 10-13 say, "But the day of theLord will come as a thief; in the which the heavensshall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall be dissolved withfervent heat, and the earth and the works that are thereinshall be burned up . . . what manner of persons ought ye tobe in all holy living and godliness . . .? But, according tohis promise, we look for new heavens and a new earth,wherein dwelleth righteousness." The last phrase WHEREIN DWELLETH RIGHTEOUSNESS, implicitly show the coming Resurrection and Judgment. And consequently, the realization of thehope, and ONLY HOPE OF SPIRITUAL ISRAEL.

As I was driving home for lunch the other day, thesong with the above title came on the radio. Although Ihad heard it many times, the philosophy behind thelyrics occurred to me for the first time. If you are notfamiliar with the song, the lyricist begins by telling how his mother died giving him birth. Due to this, hisfather deprived him of the love he deserved, blamingthe child for his wife's death. Furthermore, he is serving time in prison for a crime he did not commit.He says it has been, "one hill after another, but I've climbed them all one by one . . . but this time, Lord,you gave me a mountain—a mountain that I cannotclimb; it isn't a hill any longer, you gave me a mountain this time."

You see, his wife had left him and taken "his reasonfor living, his pride and his joy, his small baby boy."And so, "this time, Lord you gave me a mountain—amountain that I cannot climb. . . " Now granted thisfellow has had his share of problems. Undoubtedly ithas been quite a struggle—there's nothing funny aboutit. But has the Lord really given him a mountain thatis impossible to climb?

GOD, THE DEVIL, AND MOUNTAINS

Many today try to escape responsibility for theiractions or their circumstances by saying, "Lord, yougave me a mountain." In other words, "I just can't handle my problem—and, its your fault, Lord!" Usingthis "logic", many therefore "reason" that they are notaccountable for their problems, nor responsible forsolving them.

This rationalization, however, contradicts the plainteaching of the Bible. First of all, the Lord is notresponsible for sending problems on us. God is thegiver of good gifts (James 1:17). It is impossible for God to sin or tempt man to sin. God does not directlyafflict man with evil or adversity. James argues thatman is tempted when he is drawn away by his own lust, and enticed; and finally, when lust has conceived it willbring forth sin and ultimately death. In a word, Jamessays, "Don't blame God for your temptations.

Sometimes, when tragedy strikes a family, there is a tendency to say, "Why did God do this to me?" When ayoung person loses his life in an automobile accident,someone will inevitably shake his head and mutter,"Why does God take the life of one so young?" Maybe acrippling disease strikes down a husband and father or small children are left without parents due to death ordivorce, it is then that the skeptic will wonder why God does this. Friends, God is not responsible for ourtroubles, heartaches, and sorrows.

When the apostle Paul prayed to God about his"thorn in the flesh," the Lord did not remove it butsaid, "My grace is sufficient for thee." Paul did notblame God and quit. He put the blame exactly where itbelonged. He said, "there was given unto me a thorn inthe flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest Ishould be exalted above measure." Paul placed theblame exactly where it belonged—on the Devil, not onGod!

At this point one may inquire, "All right, so it isn'tGod's fault, but isn't it possible to be given a mountainthat we cannot climb?" No! With reference to temptation, Paul said, "there hath no temptation takenyou but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye areable; but will with the temptation also make a way ofescape, that ye may be able to bear it." Although theDevil will tempt us to sin, God will not allow us to be"uncommonly" tempted beyond our ability to withstand it and shun it. He will provide a way ofescape. Of course, we must look for the escape-hatch!He is not going to miraculously deliver us out of someproblem situation.

Furthermore, the apostle Peter said, "Cast all yourcare upon Him; for he careth for you." God knows ourproblems and He cares. He will be our refuge in time oftrouble. We can pray to Him and He will hear. The Hebrew writer spoke comforting words when he penned: "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throneof grace that we may obtain mercy and find grace tohelp in time of need." We have the hope as expressed inthe song," Jesus knows all about our struggles, He will guide til the day is done. . . "

FAITH MOVES MOUNTAINS

Finally, we forget that we can move mountains!Jesus said, If thou canst believe, all things arepossible to him that believeth" (Mark 9:23). Someonemight counter, "That's silly, you can say 'mountain, move away' and expect it to move!" That's right! Butthat is confusing faith with wishful thinking. Faith canmove mountains, whether you cut around it, over it,under it or though it. So if a mountain has been put inyour path, don't despair—move it!

Let us, therefore, have the proper attitude toward the mountains that may impede our progress. Don'tblame God. Don't quit. But put your trust in God, keepyour faith in Christ Jesus, and continue to work towardthat land of fadeless day.

420 9th Ave.

Palmetto, Fla.

CRUMBLING FOUNDATIONS

Would you believe there is a growing number ofadults who are advocating the rights of children todrive automobiles, vote, enjoy sexual freedom, handletheir own finances, and choose all sorts of such optionsfor themselves?

Richard Farson, psychologist and faculty member ofthe Humanistic Psychology Institute in San Francisco says, "So be it" to those items (Louisville Courier-Journal and Times, Oct. 26, 1975). He is author of "Birthrights: A Bill of Rights for Children."

John Holt, whose books on education are among themost influential in our nation's universities, demands the same rights plus the right to use drugs and alcohol,have a guaranteed income, and choose their guardians,in his book, Escape From Childhood.

That's hard for me to believe! (But then I still havetrouble believing that anyone is serious about abstractart and modern music!)

But let's get serious. These folks are. There is beforethe Congress of the United States, Legislation known as:

THE CHILD AND FAMILY

SERVICE ACT OF 1975

House of Representatives HB2966

Senate S626 CHILD ADVOCACY CLAUSE H.R. 1 and S. 2007, two bills which passed both houses in 1971 and were subsequently vetoed by President Nixon, were described by opponents as follows: "If, in the judgment of those who are in charge ofsuch a program, the State by way of the Secretaryof Health, Education, and Welfare, parents are notdoing a good job, the advocate (a specialistappointed by the government) would enter the homeand direct the education, even within the home. And if the parent would object, the authority of the home, DeFacto, be transferred to those advocated." The present bills, sponsored by the same men (Brademas-Mondale) contain essentially the same legislation that was vetoed in 1971.

The Charter of Children's Rights, developed by aBritish group, has been widely quoted as representativeof the ultimate goals of such legislation. Following are four of several items proposed in this charter:

1. "All children have the right of protection from and compensation for the consequences of any inadequacies in their homes and backgrounds.

1. Children have the right to protection from any excessive claims made on them by their parents orauthority. (The question was asked by way of example,'What do you mean by the fact of excessive claim?' Theexample was given thus: 'If a mother or father asked the child to take the garbage out and the child didn't want to, the parents have no right to insist upon it.')
2. Children have the right to freedom from religious or political indoctrination. This means parentscould not insist on children attending church, Sunday school, or synagogue. It also means the parent could bereported to the authorities for expressing himself in hisown home before his own children regarding politicsand religion if the child reported this to the authorities.
3. Children shall have the freedom to make complaints about teachers, parents, and others withoutfear of reprisals."

The bills of 1971, as well as those now pending, wereformulated primarily from two lengthy reports (TheJoint Commission on the Mental Health of Children, 1970; and The White House Conference on Children,Report to the President, 1970) which utilize languagestrikingly similar to that quoted above.

President Nixon vetoed the 1971 bill with the following remark:"This bill would weaken the American Family bycommitting the vast moral authority of the NationalGovernment to the side of Communist approaches tochild rearing over and against the family-oriented approach of America." Robert Ward, staff writer, wrote in the Indianapolis News for November 21, 1975:

"There is implied in such legislation a pronounced contempt for parents' ability to raise children. This was well illustrated by GermanWhite, who visited Indianapolis last year as chiefof program operations for the Chicago office ofthe U. S. Office of Child Development. Parents,he said, don't mean to be incompetent but theyare, and the remedy is Federal establishmentof acceptable standards of child-raising.

"Some clue as to what may be 'acceptable' to Washington," the editorial continues, "may be found in MACOS (Man: A Course of Study), a Federallydeveloped social science program in which 10-year-oldsare instructed to view wife-swapping, infanticide, cannibalism and euthanasia as just another way ofdoing things —a matter of cultural differences." Davidasked, "If the foundations be destroyed, what can therighteous do" (Psalm 11:3)? We fear that the foundations that made us a great nation are crumblinginto dust. Such efforts as these are but surface symptoms of our sin-sick society! "And that, knowingthe time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep . . .(Rom. 13:11)."

MARRIAGE, DIVORCE, AND REMARRIAGE

This particular issue has become a very "live" one onthe west coast, as it possibly has in other parts of thecountry with which I am not familiar. I am sure manyof you have read the propositions that were written formy discussion of this subject with a brother in California. I thought it would be good for me to sharewith you some of the basic findings on which I basedmy affirmation in the discussion. I hope you will readthese articles prayerfully, considering also the chartsthat are included.

Guilty Party In Matthew 19:9

The first thing that I would like to encourage you todo is to read Matthew 19:3-9, 5:31-32; Mark 10:2-12;Luke 16:18; Romans 7:2-3; 1 Cor. 7:10,11,39. These are basically the passages that discuss the subject of marriage, divorce and remarriage.

Many have denied the fact that the party that isguilty of fornication is to be found in Matt. 19:9b. But,as we read verses 3-9, we see that the Jews tried to getJesus to endorse the writings of divorcement that wereallowed by Moses, as they stated "for every cause."The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia lists a number of reasons, according to historical records, forgiving a writing of divorcement. Thus, the number 1 category on chart number 1 is the "every cause" category.

Jesus reply to the Pharisees was, except she is "putaway" for fornication the husband cannot remarrywithout committing adultery. Thus, the 2nd category.The Jews category was "every cause"; while Jesus' category was only one cause—fornication.

Now, on chart #2 we see what is said about one who marries a. "put away one." Whether one was "put away" for "every cause," or "put away" for "fornication," she is still one of the put away ones.But what did Jesus say about one who marries a "putaway one"? Whoso marries her which is put away,Jesus said, (whether she is in the "for every cause" category, or the "fornication" category) commits adultery. And as I tell a Baptist when I am talking tohim about being baptized and he asks me to explainwhy it is necessary; I don't have to be able to explain why I think it is necessary. I believe, as every Bible believer does, that it is necessary because Jesus said it. The same thing is true with Matt. 19:9b. I may not be able to explain why one who is put away for fornication commits adultery when she remarries (andher husband who put her away does not), but I believeshe does—and I believe the one who marries her does—because Jesus said it.

LOST OPPORTUNITIES

Opportunity is defined as "favorable circumstances"or "a good chance." An opportune time is therefore atime favorable to the desired results. The Greeks pictured opportunity as a maiden with long tresses infront and none behind. The idea is quite obvious, theonly chance to seize opportunity is while it is before us.Most of us need to consider our opportunities with respect to the Lord and his cause much more seriously.There are several circumstances in the Bible which emphasize the folly of lost opportunities. A sampling ofthese we here offer for consideration and study.

The Old Testament king Rehoboam exemplifies theease with which opportunity is lost. I am focusing upon the account of 1 Kings 12: 1-11. The backgroundcircumstances involve a period of 120 years, sometimesdesignated as the united kingdom period in Israel. Thisera saw Saul, David and Solomon rule God's people.During the reign of Solomon the nation of Israel rose toits zenith. Territorial borders were extended, the national image shone brightest, an impressive palaceand summer house were completed for the king. Lastand certainly not least it was during the reign of Solomon that the temple, God's house in Jerusalem, was completed in what could almost be described ascelestial beauty. The burden of taxation required tofinance these projects was excessive and the people feltas though they were oppressed. Consequently, whenSolomon died they hoped for relief under the new king,Solomon's son Rehoboam.

What an opportunity this young prince had. He washeir to one of the greatest empires of antiquity. In a very real sense he was man of the hour and could havequite possible basked in a political glory equal to hispredecessors. Conceivably, at least in the eyes of thepeople, he could have surpassed his father by healing the wounds and easing the burdens. But he lost that opportunity. He listened to the voice of the people, more particularly the young men, his own peers.Prudence and dedication to his position as ruler andjudge in behalf of the people's best interest dictated otherwise. Circumstances cried out for a different course. Desiring to stand in favor with his peers,Rehoboam turned a deaf ear to the advise of the elders from among the people. Instead of reducing the burdenof taxes as he was advised, he increased it. Thus he lost opportunity to be what God wanted and what God'speople needed in this hour. His actions set in motion a series of circumstances which divided the kingdom andultimately reduced it to slavery in a foreign land.

How often we lose opportunity to be what God wantsus to be. Perhaps it is because we listen to the voice of apeer group rather than to the voice of God. To youththe cry of their contemporaries is often louder than the voice of God. "Let no man despise thy youth; but bethou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity" (1 Tim. 4:12). Youth is despised only when the standards and norms of righteousness are rejected bythem. In a day and time when they sometimes feel "put down" both younger and older need to remember that righteousness is the true standard ofacceptability. When it is the norm of any life therecan be no despising. By the power of His will in ourlives every man has opportunity to be what God wantshim to be.

Moving to the New Testament we are impressed bysome disciples of Jesus who lost their opportunity."From that time many of his disciples went back, andwalked no more with him" (Jn. 6:66). These disciplesturned their back on Jesus. Why? The only explanationis, the demands and requirements of discipleship weretoo great for their faith. This is the basic reason forturning away today. While the factors which contributeto such a turning may be varied and numerous, thebasic reason is unchanged. Think what an opportunitythese lost to have their faith strengthened by thefurther teaching of Jesus. An opportunity to know Himbetter and enjoy the blessings of that association. Butreflection here is unprofitable without the proper application. Do we lose any less than these discipleswhen we turn away and even back from the Lord andthe opportunity to serve which association with Himbrings? "And Jesus said unto him, No man, having puthis hand to the plough and looking back, is fit for thekingdom of God" (Lk. 9:62).

Among those who exemplify lost opportunities wecan surely include the rich man in hades (Lk. 16:19 ff.)This man lost the opportunity to serve. An opportunitywhich, like most, is appreciated only when lost. Thisseems to be so with most of the things which are taken for granted. The sick wish to be able to attend the services of the church, although when well the opportunity may not have been cherished. The agedwish that they could enjoy the vitality of youth. Thingslost are those generally the most highly appreciated.The opportunity of serving is yours and mine, we haveit with the life and vitality of today. What are we doingwith it? We can attend the services, worship, takeadvantage of study opportunities and grow in faith. Wecan teach, convert and save a soul. We can work for every good thing in the Lord. Indeed, what opportunities! Are we losing them? How hopeless the state of this rich man, doomed and damned. As he reflected upon his life one of the thoughts which painfully oppressed is that his opportunity to changeeternal destiny is gone. Gone forever!

Two New Testament kings complete my list of examples for this consideration. The one, Felix who sent for Paul, and heard him concerning Christ. "And as he reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgement to come, Felix trembled, and answered, Gothy way for this time; when I have a convenient season,I will call for thee" (Acts 24:25). Felix could have learned more, Paul would have returned if the opportunity had presented. But no, this thrillingopportunity to know Christ and become a Christian was lost by this king. The convenient season for whichhe waited apparently never came, at least there is noevidence of it.

The second of these kings is Agrippa who with anopportunity very like Felix responded, "Almost thoupersuadest me to be a Christian" (Acts 26:28). He almost obeyed the gospel, but not quite. What an opportunity he had. He lost it. Lost it forever!

Today is opportunity day for each of us. For the Christian, the opportunity to serve and do for the Lord,live and work to His glory. For the sinner to acceptJesus Christ and obey His will to be saved. "Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day ofsalvation" (2 Cor. 6:2). What will we do with our opportunities? What will you do with yours? Seizeopportunity, lest we lose it forever!

HINDU IDOLATRY — TRANSCENDENTAL MEDITATION

Transcendental Meditation has made inroads into the life of America. If one has not taken the time to investigate it, he will be mistaken about what all isinvolved in and connected with it.

Transcendental Meditation was popularized in theWestern World by the ex-guru of the singing group, theBeatles, that guru being Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. TheStudent's International Meditation Society and/or theInternational Meditation Society and also the WorldPlan Executive Council are pushing it now. The National Institute of Health provided a grant of $21,540 to instruct 130 high school teachers to be instructors in Transcendental Meditation. In May, 1972, the Illinois House of Representativesencouraged a study to be made into TranscendentalMeditation.

What Is Transcendental Meditation?

It claims it is not a religion, a form of hypnosis or aphilosophy. George R. Plagenz of Scripps-Howard News Service said in the Birmingham Post-Herald of Jan. 3, 1976, "Transcendental Meditation claims it isnot a religion — and strictly speaking it is not".

It claims to be a Science designed to give "deeprest", "to release stress" and "to develop potential". Itclaims it can reduce nervousness, depression,irritability, tendency to dominate as well as increasingsociability, self-assurance, emotional stability, intelligence, athletic performance and it claims to relieve insomnia and decrease blood pressure. It also claims to reduce the use of alcohol and cigarettes.

Transcendental Meditation claims one million mediators with 250,000 in the U. S.; 5,000 teachers are instructing 15,000 new mediators per month in 200 World Plan centers in the U. S. It claims many wellknown names of celebrities and of course many want todo what the elite do.

It claims to be a "perfectly natural state of consciousness", in which the "mind is simply allowedto follow its natural tendency to seek a very deep stateof rest while remaining keenly alert" for twenty minutes twice a day.

Really What Is Transcendental Meditation?

Having seen what Transcendental Meditation claims, really what is it? Briefly, it is a form of Hindureligion — idol worship disguised.

Ladies Home Journal, Nov., 1975, page 162, says,

Page 11

Guru Dev ... in 1941 began the present worldwide revival of Transcendental Meditation by teaching it to anyworthy person who asked to learn it".

When one begins to practice Transcendental Meditation for his initiation he brings an offering of flowers, some fruit, and a clean white handkerchief to a candle-lit ceremony with the smell of incense. He kneels, with the one who initiates him, before the picture of Guru Dev (divine leader) the Maharishi's dead master. His initiator then presents the offering of fruit andflowers and sings a song of thanksgiving to the departeddead masters of Hinduism. The Ladies Home Journal article quoted above says a Transcendental Meditation teacher said, "To some people this ceremony seems a little odd. But it is merely an offering of thanks to GuruDev for sharing his knowledge with us". What can thedead share with the living?

The World Book, 1974 Year Book, page 461, says,"Americans continued to show interest in many eastern forms of religion from popular attention to transcendental meditation associated with the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and the visiting "Perfect Masters", and 15 year old Guru Maharaj Ji, to more traditional forms" (emphasis mine, TGO).

George R. Plagenz in his above mentioned article iswrong when he says, "No deity is involved or praised" buthe goes on to say "there can be no doubt that Transcendental Meditation is close enough to being areligion that it caused religion to sit up sharply and takenotice in 1975.

Plagenz goes on to say, "The Maharishi himself must beconsidered a religious figure. After receiving a degreein physics in Allahabad University in India in 1940, Mahesh — that is the family name — decided to becomea monk. He went off to the Himalayan Mountains toserve a spiritual apprenticeship to Guru Dev, a swami whohad revived the act of transcendental meditation, first mentioned in the Vedas — the Hindu Scriptures. When Guru Dev died in 1952, his mantle passed to Mahesh whodeveloped a technique to enable the masses to practicetranscendental meditation. The movement now has a university of 700 students — Maharishi International University — on the 185 acre former campus of ParsonsCollege in Iowa.

When one meditates kneeling before a picture of GuruDev, presenting his offering of fruit and flowers, his initiator gives him his secret "mantra" which is a Sanskrit word. He then repeats his "mantra" and if anything entershis mind, he pushes it out be repeating his "mantra" untilhe is in the state to receive the mysterious spiritual forcewhich is about him.

Maharishi says, "Transcendental Meditation is a pathto God" (Meditations, page 59); and "a very good form ofprayer is this meditation which leads us to the field of theCreator, to the source of creation, to the field of God" (page 95). Science of Being and Act of Living, page 254 says, "The key to the fulfillment of every religion is found in the regular practice of transcendental deep meditation."

Maharishi Mahesh claims to be "one who has attained perfection and union with God". He claims to be

a disciple of one of the four great religious leaders of India, "His Divinity Swami Brahmananda Saraswati, Jagadguru, Bhagwan Shan Karacharya of Jyotir Math".

"Yogi is ... a school of thought in the Hindu religion" (World Book Encyclopedia, 1975 edition, Vol.21, pages 470-471). "Various forms of yoga have become popular in the United States and Europe. One form, Transcendental Meditation, requires less mental concentration than does the yoga of Hinduism" (Ibid.)."Yoga is a set of mental and physical exercises designed to free the soul and reliance on the body so thatthe soul can unite with Brahman" (Ibid., vol. 9, page225). Brahman is the one universal spirit of Hinduism'spolytheism.

Why Is Transcendental Meditation Sinful?

(1) It Is Idolatry. It "offers" and gives "thanks" to thedead masters of Hinduism. The Christian is to "flee" and "keep himself from idols" (I Cor. 10:14; I John 5:21). Jehovah is the only God and we should worship Him, not the masters of Hinduism (I Cor. 8:5- 6; Mt. 4:10;John 4:24). (2) It meditates upon the wrong thing. It is not wrong to meditate, but the Christian meditates upon theword of God (Psalm 1:2; 119:15, 48, 79, 97,148) and uponthings that are good (Phil. 4:8). (3) Prayer is to God, not to Hindu deities (Mt. 6:9;6:6; 18:19; Rom. 10:1; Acts 8:22; I Cor. 11:13; John14:16). God will both hear and answer prayer (Phil.4:6—7).Hindu idols have no power. (4) Christ is the way to God. Christ is not one of many ways to God but "the way" — "no man comethunto the Father, but by me" (John 14:6). To come to God one must be taught of God (John 6:44-45).

Christians practicing the teaching of Christ have a peace that those seeking other means cannot find.

"PERSONAL INTERPRETATION" NO. 2

This is the second in a series on personal interpretation of the scriptures. Please note article onein last month's issue. The justifications for the personal interpretation theory which leads to divisionare many. Several years ago, I had opportunity todiscuss some matters with a Catholic priest. One ofthe questions I asked was: "Do Catholics discourageBible study among their members?" His reply was, "Yes, we do discourage Bible study among ourmembers." He went on to explain why. He said, "Yousee Hogland, most laymen cannot interpret the Bibleproperly; therefore we see no good from studying.We, the priest, are the ones qualified to interpret theBible for the people." He also used as one of his arguments the divided state of the religious world. Hesaid, "If the religious world would allow the priest tointerpret the Bible, there would be unity, since wewould agree on its meaning". I told him this sounded good but one question remained unanswered, "Who gave the priest their authority to be the sole interpreters of the Bible?" As you might suspect I received no answer.

Actually, every responsible person must come to anunderstanding of the Bible himself. This is why in lastmonth's article I preferred the word understanding over the word interpretation. I used Eph. 5:17 to showPaul expected us to understand the word of God. Theremight be some overlapping between the two words butthe first is much preferred.

In my first article, I pointed out that Billy Sunday Myers argued the Bible could not be taken as our only creed because every person had to put his personalinterpretation on it. I shall now give several reasonswhy the personal interpretation theory is wrong.

1. I deny the personal interpretation theory becausewe could not be SURE about anything. Peter said,"Make your calling and election sure" (2 Pet. 1:10). Ifevery person has a right to his own personalinterpretation we could not be sure of any position we espouse. For example, if I study and come to theconclusion that baptism is a burial and means that onemust be inundated in order to fulfill the Bible requirement — how could I be sure? Another comesalong and says "Well, I don't get that out of the textHogland, it seems to me that the text teaches sprinkling as the action for Bible baptism." Could I besure? Not at all, if each has a right to his interpretation.The truth of the matter is that one of us, or perhapsboth have MISUNDERSTOOD the Bible. No interpretation is involved.

1. My second objection to the personal interpretation theory is a direct contradiction of theprayer of Jesus in John 17. The Lord prayed "that theyall may be one" but the personal interpretation theorydivides people into hundreds of camps and creeds. Howin the name of common reasoning could we be "one"when people make one verse mean a dozen differentthings?
2. My third objection to the personal interpretationtheory is a contradiction to Paul's plea in First Corinthians 1. He said, "Now I beseech you brethren,by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speakthe same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in thesame mind and in the same judgment" (1 Cor. 1:10). Ithas been argued that the unity Paul speaks of in thistext is "perfect" unity and will never be attained bybrethren. This, I emphatically deny. I affirm that somecongregations have attained this unity for which Christprayed. Please keep in mind there is a difference in"sinless" human beings and a congregation dwelling together in unity. I would grant that on a comparativebasis few congregations attain this goal. However, tosay it is impossible is a direct slap in the face of the Lord and the peerless apostle Paul. Let us considersome of the problems at Corinth. They were dividedover human names, going to law with a brother,discipline of the fornicator, Lord's Supper, spiritualgifts, eating meats sacrificed to idols, etc. Now gentlereader, was the right or wrong of these issues a matterof personal interpretation? Certainly not. Paul tells usthat some within the confines of the church were rightand others were wrong. Paul did not excuse the brethren on the basis of their sincerity. For example,some were wearing the names of Paul, Apollos andCephas — they were wrong and causing division inthe body. Some were wearing the name of CHRISTand they were right. This is true in manycongregations. Some cause division and others striveto maintain the unity of the Spirit.

In the previous article, I pointed out that we aredivided over sponsoring churches, benevolent organizations, classes, cups, head coverings, invitationsongs, Christmas trees, weddings and funerals in church buildings, etc. Now my question is this — doesthe Bible settle all of these questions? Some may say,"Yes, but no one is smart enough to find the answer."Look out! If that be so, we are back to what theCatholic priest argued that no one but the priest couldunderstand the Bible. Gentle friend, I believe that theBible settles all the above questions. You may restassured that when they are settled all the brethren willbe "ONE". It breaks my heart to see the body of Christdivided into so many groups. Someone is going to haveto answer for this on the day of Judgment. But someone may say, "We must be tolerant and kind."This is absolutely correct. Paul was tolerant and kind indealing with the problems at Corinth but he did notstick his head in the sand and act as if the problems did not exist. Neither did he tell them to remain divided but just try to get along! He told them in plain words thatsome were right and others were wrong.

Detente means "a slackening or relaxing, esp. an easing or relaxation of strained relations and politicaltensions between nations," WEBSTER'S THIRD NEW INTERNATIONAL DICTIONARY, p. 616. For the past several years there has been talk of detente in the political world. Detente has also become prevalent inthe religious world and is known as ecumenism.

From the days of Israel's rejection of the judges (forkings like the other nations) to the patterning of theRoman Catholic church after the Roman Empire (andeven beyond), history has shown that men often try torun the kingdom of God as they do their earthlykingdoms. Even today the concept of the centralizationof power in the church bears close resemblance to ourcivil government. After being fed a constant diet of "talk" about detente in the world of politics and ecumenism in the religious realm, it became almost inevitable that the thinking of brethren would be influenced in that direction.

Generally, brethren have not used the words "detente" or "ecumenism" to describe their efforts to ease or slacken relations with false teachers. However, the concept has been observed under such disguises as"peace offensives," "unity movements," and "dialogue." While some of these terms have legitimateuses in the kingdom (when they get down to the nittygritty of the issues), most of the time they avoid theissues and turn out to be compromise situations.

Many, both in and out of the church, now preferdetente rather than debate. They want to continue propagating error but they want us to relax our opposition. This reminds us of a statement from the watchman, Solzhenitsyn. Commenting on the famousline by Khrushchev, Solzhenitsyn said: "Now of course, the communists in our country have become more clever. They no longer say, 'We're going to bury you.' Now they say 'detente.' But nothing has changed. The goals are the same as they were." (Aleksandr I. Solzhenitsyn, "No More Concessions]", READER'S DIGEST, Oct., 1975, p. 74).

And false teachers of today have become more clever.They no longer say, "We're going to skin you in adebate." Now they say "dialogue." But their goals arethe same. Again, the world acclaimed literary genius,Solzhenitsyn, recalled: "The yes man is your enemy,but your friend will argue with you, "IBID. p. 75.

The soft approach of many false teachers todayshould remind us that they are our enemies, spirituallyspeaking. Back when churches and preachers were

willing to openly defend their convictions in publicdiscussions the Lord's church was growing by leapsand bounds. Brethren were enthusiastic at seeing soulswon, and both members and non-members alike woulddrive a great distance to witness such an encounterbetween truth and error. Twenty-one years ago,another man whom you all know had this to say: "A good practical way to establish the falsity of false teaching is to expose it to the fresh air and sunlight of agood debate. . . . Truth has nothing to lose by debate,provided each disputant acts as a gentleman and sticksto the subject. . . . THROUGH GOOD DEBATES THIS WRITER HAS NEVER KNOWN A STUDENT WHOSE FAITH WAS NOT STRENGTHENED." [Batsell Barrett Baxter, GOSPEL ADVOCATE, Jan. 6,1955, p. 11—caps mine, DB],

I can well understand the feelings of those who areweary of controversy. But we should not be deceivedinto thinking that the rarity of debates these days is anindication that the religious world is almost united onthe Word of God! In fact, there is more division nowthan ever and not many seem to care. Any unity movement which does not include discussingdifferences with an open Bible in hand, is worthless.The best "unity movements" that have ever been held within the past century were nothing more thanopen, fair discussions of THE WORD (debates, ifyou please). They did not always result in a merger ofchurches. And that really wasn't expected, for conversion is an individual matter. But when an individual unites with Christ on His Word, man, that's unity!

So, why aren't there more debates today? There areat least three possibilities.

(1) Some "Church of Christers" are getting soft ondenominational error. They are more interested inpeaceful coexistence (truce) and, in fact, have embraced the error. The denominations don't feel threatened. Those who are willing to defend theirconvictions are called "party-minded." Why should they want to debate? (2) The denominations have learned that debating does not help their cause. They had much rather ticklethe ears of those who enjoy their mushy, pious tonesthan discuss something that may cost them somemembers or affect them socially. (3) Many do not have enough conviction on anythingto bother having a discussion. They are wrapped up insocialism to the point that genuine spiritual mattersturn them off. The mere listing of references (book,chapter, verse) should have a familiar ring to the avidstudent of the Word. But some are totally unfamiliarwith such passages as Acts 15:2,7; Phil. 1:7; Jude 3; 2Tim. 4:2; Acts 6:8-15; 17:17; 19:8,9; Mt. 22:23-46. Dothese references sound familiar to you?

CONCLUSION

One should always deal fairly with his opposition.But we can never have detente between truth and error. The battle must go on. Perhaps if we would get back toexposing religious error (a thing that will send one tohell), false teachers might again be compelled to defendtheir beliefs, Jude 3. What do you think?

THE "IDEAL" PREACHER'S WIFE

Preachers' wives, like preachers themselves, come inall shapes, sizes, and kinds. And as F. B. Srygley usedto say of their husbands, "They are all human, and some are very human." We don't profess to knowexactly what an ideal preacher's wife should be like. It does seem that it would be good if she possessed anoutgoing personality, is religious in nature, andmanifests an interest in her husband's work. It would hardly be a drawback if she is able to prepare his sermons and is adept in offering a few helpfulsuggestions now and then in regard to his manner ofpreaching. But then, a preacher's wife could be too "ideal."

David A. Nation was a gospel preacher of sorts whenhe met and married Carry Amelia Moore Gloyd in 1877. Carry was a young widow whose drunkard husband had died some years before, leaving her in poverty with anafflicted child. She was an outgoing woman (veryoutgoing); she was religious in nature (in her ownpeculiar way); and she was interested in her new husband's ministry (insofar as it served her purpose).Furthermore, she wrote his sermons for him, evensupplying him with gestures he was to use in theirpresentation. She also offered some helpful suggestionsabout his preaching (while he was in the pulpit).

After disturbing the peace of Richmond, Texas forseveral years, Carry swapped her hotel there for a placein Medicine Lodge, Kansas. David, having tried journalism and law in the Lone Star State, was toassume "the ministry" of the First Christian Church intheir new home. In doing so, he launched what one ofhis wife's biographers called one of theology's bleakest chapters since Peter the Hermit.

In writing her husband's sermons, Carry chose thetext and filled in the body with wrathful anecdotes, often dealing with alcohol, tobacco, sex, and theMasonic Lodge, which she despised in that approximate order. She also threw in specificapplications, by name, to persons in the congregationwhom she felt in need of special admonition. Then shewould edit and rewrite a sermon two or three times before permitting David to use it. But she wasn't through yet. When he mounted the pulpit to deliver thesermon, she took a seat in the front row and promptedhim, in tones audible to the whole audience.

If he preached too slowly, she would say, "Speed up,David, you're dragging." She told him when to raise orlower his voice, which direction to face, and when toclear his throat, blow his nose, clutch his lapel, and pullhis beard. As he neared the end, she would say, "Thatwill be all for today, David." Then, ascending thepulpit, she would close his Bible and lead him out.(These facts come mainly from Vessel of Wrath, byRobert Lewis Taylor.)

Any preacher today who may think his wife is lessthan ideally suited for his calling, can take consolationin knowing he isn't married to a woman like CarryNation. It could be worse, brother. A whole lot worse.

RHODESIA

FOY SHORT, 110 Harris St. A-3, Goodlettsville, Tennessee 37072What is going to happen in Rhodesia? Being no prophet, nor theson of one, I cannot say. One thing is sure. The situation inRhodesia is not nearly so grim as the news media would seem toindicate. The police go about their normal patrol duties, totallyunarmed. Our brethren go about through the country as they will,preaching and teaching without fear of molestation. Of course, ifthe 12,000 Cubans now in Angola were transported over to Mozambique, and with full Russian support, were allowed to crossthe border to attack Rhodesia, then the picture would be drastically changed.

Airmail letters from Jim Short, Paul Fudge and others in Rhodesia indicate no changes in their activities or plans. Theyspeak of preaching to churches, of setting up studies with peoplein their homes, of traveling from community to communitywithout difficulty — other than that imposed by the high cost of gasoline, and the fact that it is rationed. Since the door of opportunity is wide open in Rhodesia at this time for the preaching of the gospel, it seems to me that we should make every effort to

use the opportunity. It is possible that the door will one day beclosed to us from this country except for brief visits by a very few

— as has happened in Nigeria and other countries in north Africa.

One way of using the opportunity which I would commend tobrethren is that support be provided for two young Rhodesian preachers for a two year period. They would work in close association with me for the two year period, devoting full time topreaching and studying, thus equipping themselves for moreeffective work in years to come when they will be on their own,either self-supporting, or supported by Rhodesian churches. It is akind of "training-on-the-job" such as Timothy, Titus and Silas engaged in with the apostle Paul. The younger learning fromworking with the older and more experienced.

Churches able to have fellowship in this work of preaching andteaching the gospel in Rhodesia may contact me for detailsconcerning the men to be supported. The support would, ofcourse, be sent directly by the supporting church to the man theychoose to support. This can be done easily by ordinary check byairmail. Over the years we have had no difficulty over this. I would be happy to visit and talk personally with brethren concerning this work. Just under half the amount needed for one man has so far been promised. The amount needed by each man is $850 per month.These are white men whose living standards are similar to those ofpeople in the U.S.A. Supporting these two men would accomplish atleast two important ends. First it would increase our manpower forteaching the gospel, RIGHT NOW. Second, it will be a valuablecontribution to the long range future of the work by providing twomore men with a background of intensive work and study, to be the future preachers and elders of the churches in Rhodesia. I need to hearfrom you soon. My wife and I plan to leave Nashville on May 5th or6th to return to Rhodesia. Telephone (615) 859-5361.RALPH JOINER, 4661 Cooper Rd., Cincinnati, Ohio 45242 — The Hazelwood church is a small group of black brethren meeting in thenortheast section of the greater Cincinnati area. They and the Blue Ashchurch have been drawn close together by our mutual love for God'sword and stand against the many innovations of our liberal brethren,in particular the periodic local Campaigns for Christ. These brethrenhave met under very adverse conditions: no heat, no indoor plumbing,and none of the luxuries we of the more affluent churches take for granted. Yet they never complain or weaken in the faith. They have song books and Bibles but they are in need of some seating. If anycongregation has pews not in use, these brethren would appreciatethem. Their attendance presently is about 35 but they are working and would be able to use seating for about 100 people. If you canhelp, contact Henry Ware, 3454 Greenlawn Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45207. Telephone (513) 281-7955.JEFF KINGRY, 109 Old Crossing, Annapolis, MD 21401 — I havethe following copies of SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES which I will trade (or give away to those who need them): Volume 1 (nos.5,8,9,11,12); Volume 2 (nos. 1,2,3,4,10); Volume 3 (nos. 2,5); Volume7 (nos. 1-5); Volume 8 (no. 12); Volume 9 (nos. 1-6, 7-12). I needjust the following to make a complete set for binding: Volume 2(nos. 5,7,12); Volume 3 (nos. 1,3); Volume 4 (nos. 6,10); Volume 5 (nos. 2,3,5,6,8-11); Volume 6 (nos. 1-3, 5-10, 12). DONALD R. GIVENS, P.O. Box 192, Haney, British Columbia, Canada — Wehave had seven baptisms this winter. Bill Spaun of Seattle, Washingtonearnestly desires to move to western Canada to help in this harvestfield. If you can give him any assistance please contact him soon at16220 Ambaum Blvd., S., Seattle, WA 98148 or phone (206) 243-4861.

PREACHERS NEEDED ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA — The Disston Avenue church of Christ is seeking a full time preacher to begin work in May or June.Inquiries may be directed to 901 49th St. South, St. Petersburg, Florida 33707, in confidence.GALLATIN, TENNESSEE — The Southeast church is in need of a full time preacher. We have the desire to grow and believe a full timepreacher could contribute toward this goal. Most of the support would need to be raised elsewhere. Contact the church at 165 Witherspoon Ave., Gallatin, Tennessee 37066. Phone (615) 452-9598or (615) 452-9713.

AUSTRALIA AND THE PHILIPPINES

LESLIE DIESTELKAMP, 8311 27th Ave., Kenosha, Wisconsin 53140 — In late November, 1975, I ended about 14 months of gospel work in Australia which involved me in work with some twenty congregations scattered over the eastern quarter of the country.Though we worked separately most of the time, I was closely associated in that work with my youngest son, Roy, and he is continuing there even yet in a very busy schedule of preaching and teaching. We were both supported there by the 77th Streetchurch in Birmingham, Alabama. Roy's permanent mailing address is

P.O. Box 97, Gymea, N.S.W., 2227, Australia. He would be happy torespond to any inquiries about the work there.

Roy, along with Max Burgin and Roily McDowell, native Australian preachers, are the only full time gospel workers there who oppose the church support of human societies and the sponsoringchurch concept of cooperation. However, there are a dozen or more able men who support themselves and who share the above convictions and who do good work in preaching. Some others receivepartial support and likewise do good work.

Australia is a beautiful country with a lovely climate and a prosperous population. The cost of living is very high as is the inflation rate. But the average Australian is not at all religious andevangelism, by any process, is very difficult. Yet among the small congregations there are devoted, faithful saints, and gradually,with patient perseverance, the cause will prosper in that good land.There will be no mass evangelism there as we saw in Nigeria, but ifthis earth remains, the next generation should see a significant development, both numerically and spiritually.

The Philippines

In December and January, 1976 I spent eight weeks in Mindanaoin the southern Philippines, where I had been briefly in 1974. Mylast six days there (as well as my first six days in America) werespent in a hospital, suffering from malnutrition, Malaria and dysentery.But the first seven weeks I preached 113 times in 31 different congregations in the cities, towns and villages of that island. About50 were baptized though my efforts were mostly to edify Christians.After one sermon at one place I was fired, but this may result in asound work there.

I travelled by plane, boat, bus, truck, motorcycle, jeep, horsebackand walked to several places when the roads ran out. By going toso many remote places, living with the people and working in theactual congregations I was able to edify and encourage the whole church in each place. Of course, after spending my 64th birthday there,I was fool-hardy in some facts of life and tried to do a young man'swork, resulting in my sickness which prevented me from going on toNigeria for more such work. (Thankfully, I am now almost completely recovered, here in America).

The Philippine work is a great work, second only to that in Nigeria which is much larger and more fruitful. The matter of American support for Philippine preachers needs much study by all concerned. Many good, faithful, zealous Filipino men do good workwith no support, and others with very little. A few receive very largewages, sometimes from several sources. Some are undeserving. But Ibelieve Americans can hardly make a better investment for souls thanby supporting faithful Filipino preachers. I'll be happy to supply names and recommendations to any who desire such. Any Americanswho have used song books and other good religious books would dowell to send them to the Philippines.

DEBATE IN CHATTANOOGA May 17, 18, 20, 21, 1976 Proposition 1: "The Scriptures teach that there is a distinction

between the uses that may be made of an individual's money andthat money which has been contributed into the treasury of thechurch."

Affirms: Dave Bradford Denies: Jim Clements Proposition 2: "The Scriptures teach that the treasury of thechurch may be used for any purpose for which the individual Christian's money may be used."

Affirms: Jim Clements

Denies: Dave Bradford

The first two nights will be conducted in the building of theMiddle Valley church at 1836 Thrasher Pike, Hixson, Tennessee. The last two nights will be in the building of the North Hixson church at5484 Old Hixson Pike, Hixson, Tennessee. All sessions will begin at

7:30 (EDT). To reach either building: From State Hwy 153 turn NEon Hixson Pike at Northgate Shopping Center and go 1 and 1/4 milesNE to North Hixson building, or go 5 miles NE to Thrasher Pike, thenleft 1/2 mile to Middle Valley building. For further information, contactDave Bradford, P.O. Box 143, Hixson, Tennessee 37343 or phone

(615) 842-0827.

PREACHERS NEEDED EL DORADO, ARKANSAS — This small south Arkansas congregation needs an evangelist. We can supply $500 a month withother support to be raised elsewhere. For further details contact John

H. Storey, 307 Hathaway, El Dorado, Arkansas 71730. Phone (501)862-4396.POUND, VIRGINIA — A full time preacher is needed with a smallcongregation in southwest Virginia. For more information please callcollect: Jack Goff (703) 796-4412, after 7 P.M., or write Jack Goff, Rt.1, Box 494E, Pound, VA 24279.