TIMES HAVE CHANGED

If there is one fact clearly taught and illustrated inthe New Testament it is that God's word does not change and will not permit the changes that are found in religious bodies today. Jesus said: "Heavenand earth shall pass away, but my words shall notpass away" (Matt. 24:35). Paul said: "But thoughwe, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospelunto you than that which we have preached untoyou, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say Inow again, If any man preach any other gospel untoyou than that ye have received, let him be accursed"(Gal. 1:8,9). He also said: "Now these things,brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself andApollos for your sakes; that in us ye might learn notto go beyond the things which are written . . ." (1 Cor. 4:6 RV). John said: "If there come any untoyou, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not intoyour house, neither bid him God speed: for he thatbiddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds"(2 John 10,11).

The same New Testament that is referred to in these verses as the "gospel", "things which are written", "my words," and "doctrine" is used by most denominations today, but the application has greatly changed, and the expressions have been altered so as not to make them recognizable to theBible student. When these facts are called to the attention of denominationalists, they answer by saying that "times have changed." The implication,of course, is that since times have changed the wordof God must be adapted to these changing times. Noother conclusion could be reached.

A letter received some time ago from a lady in thefar north is an example of the changing times and theefforts to transform the New Testament to a systemacceptable to the loose concept of God and the churchtoday. She informed me that the word of God has notchanged and that it is fully capable of directing men in the right way. This is exactly right. But she then began to explain that the word must be made applicable to this generation. A strange contradiction,wouldn't you say? The SPIRIT of the letter, shesaid, was much more important than the LEGALISM that some people follow today. Whethershe realized it or not, her concept of "spirit" vs "legalism" destroyed the New Testament truth that "words", "gospel", "things which are written", and "doctrine" are unchangeable. There is no such thing as "the spirit" apart from "words" written in the New Testament. By "spirit" they usually mean the "intent" —"general idea or purpose" of the word ofGod. But how does one know the intent apart fromthe written word?

The changes in expressions and ideas may be illustrated by reading Acts 2:14-42 and then comparing it with the following "intent" as may beexpressed by the religious world today:

"But Reverend Peter, standing up with the eleven,lifted up his voice, and said unto them . . . Ye men ofIsrael, hear this spirit of the letter; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you byseeming miracles and wonders and signs . , . him being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken and by wickedhands have crucified and slain: whom God raised upaccording to Jewish legend ..."

"Now when they heard this, they were quickenedby the baptism of the Holy Spirit and said to Reverend Peter and the rest of the apostles, Men andbrethren, what shall we do now? Then Reverend Peter said, If you have received the baptism of theHoly Spirit, you are saved; but if not, accept Christas your personal Saviour and pray for the outpouringof the Spirit upon you. For this promise is unto youand to all your infants . . . "

"Then they that gladly received the Lord as theirpersonal Saviour and were saved by grace were sprinkled, and the same day about three thousand joined the church of their choice. And they continuedto follow the dictates of their consciences, and to have fellowship with all other churches."

The preceding three paragraphs are NOT the word of God, but they do express the doctrines of denominationalism today. Times have changed, and men have tried to change the word of God, but everysuch change takes away the power of God to save.God's power to save is the gospel of Christ (Rom.1:16). There is no other gospel (Gal. 1:7-9). The gospel must be expressed in the words of the Spirit(1 Cor. 2:13; 1 Peter 4:11). No other doctrine is to betaught (1 Tim. 1:3). We must insist upon sound words that cannot be condemned.

When we accept the fact that the church in manyparts of the country has changed over the past 25years, and is continuing to change, we are ready tofind the reasons and the remedy. Many brethren havetheir heads buried in the sands of ignorance and apathy and refuse to acknowledge the reality of themoral decline, liberal teaching and denominationalpractice that characterize so many "churches of Christ" over the land today. We who call attention tothese changing times in the church are labeled "negative" and "pessimistic" in our attitude. Call it what you may, the church is changing for the worseday by day. Certainly this is not true of every congregation. Many are sound in the faith and working hard to keep the church pure from all innovations.

The church that Christ built is unchangeable and inalterable in doctrine and practice. "Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let ushave grace, whereby we may serve God acceptablywith reverence and godly fear" (Heb. 12:28). The word of Christ does not change (Matt. 24:35). We must resist the dogmatic and subtle changes that arecoming upon us from the god of this world.

TOUGH DECISIONS

Surely it is the fervent prayer of every child of Godthat our nation, as well as other nations around the world, will not be plunged into another war fraughtwith global consequences in this nuclear age. The clouds are gathering in the Persian Gulf region. Atthis writing over 50 Americans are still held hostagein Iran with no immediate solution in sight. Nearly 100,000 Russian troops now occupy Afghanistan.Strong words are being uttered by national leaders inWashington. The mood of the country is restless andthe fires of patriotism are leaping higher with each passing day in spite of the protests of some. There isa rising resentment among citizens of this nation overthe international mistreatment of our official representatives and encroachments upon our nationalinterests.

Our President has proposed that draft registrationbe reinstated and that all young men from 19-26should register just in case the draft has to be revived. I am not a statesman and this publication isnot a voice for political views. But I am a Christianand a father with two sons who fall within the registration age. They, along with multipliedthousands of young people who are trying to servethe Lord, are going to be faced with decisions which have far reaching consequences. All who fall into this category will have to act according to their own consciences as they wrestle with the prospect of possible required military service. Each will have to grapple with this question: TO WHAT EXTENT, IFAT ALL, CAN I SERVE IN THE MILITARY?

There have been honest differences of views amongbrethren on this question for many years. In the CivilWar there were Christians who fought on each side,including some gospel preachers who laid down thesword of the Spirit to take up a different kind ofsword. There were others who refused to participateand chided those who did. The question surfacedamong brethren during World War I and again inWorld War II. Others faced it during the Koreanconflict and most recently, the Vietnam war.

We are fortunate that citizens of our country are granted some leeway because of conscience. All governments have not been that considerate in suchtimes when conscription of troops was thoughtnecessary. But it is important for young men to knowthat they do have a choice.

What Are the Options?

1. There are those who feel that the demand for

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obedience to the civil ordinance, as taught in Romans13:1-7, justifies their participation in the military inany capacity. They believe they may train for combatservice with the ultimate goal being the use of weapons of destruction against an enemy on land, atsea or from the air. These see no difference in the role of a soldier and the duty of a policeman who must attimes use force to uphold the law, and who regardboth actions as justified.

1. There are others who would agree with the firstposition, provided the military action is defensive andrequires such response to an outright attack on ourmen, bases, land or national interests. While opposed to aggressive, expansionist type war, they see no difference in defending their nation againstaggression and in defending their own home againstcriminals. These are selective as to what kind of war they will approve. It was for this reason that manyopposed the Vietnam war, although it was strange to see some who were committed to situation ethics arguing about an immoral war when they had espoused a philosophy which ruled out any standardby which morals could be decided.
2. There are some who believe that they may enterone of the branches of military service and performthere any act which is right to perform anywhereelse, such as driving a truck, working in an office,cooking, working in a supply depot or rendering medical service. But they draw the line at trainingthemselves in the psychology of combat readinesson the ground that no soldier, sailor or pilot cansuccessfully function in such activity without first working up a strong hatred against the enemy. Tothem, this stands opposed to all the Lord taughtabout loving your enemy, feeding him if he is hungryand praying for those who abuse you. This is theposition this editor took when he had to register afterWorld War II and not long before the Korean conflictbroke out. It is still my conviction. Those who takethis view, as well as the next one to be mentioned, has better be prepared to state their case clearly andknow well their reasons. In peacetime this position isnot likely to encounter as much rough treatment as intime of war. All sorts of questions may be asked.Ridicule and sarcasm from others in the service maybe expected.
3. There are yet others who do not believe they canenter any branch of the military and perform even a non-combat job. They are convinced that any such service contributes, if even indirectly, to the maiming, killing and inflicting of anguish on theenemy, all of which, to them, is contrary to what theLord taught. These must be prepared to be conscripted for some civil service duty for a period oftime, possibly service in a hospital. The more adamant may be given jail sentences. I know some who have taken this position in the past who receivedcivil service assignments and some who went to prison instead.

In all of these categories there have been, and yetare, brethren who act in all good conscience. So far asI know there has been no division among brethrenover this subject because it falls in the realm of individual conscience in which the choice and action of one does not affect that of another. There have been times when the discussion got heated. A potential feud is possible whenever you have the parents of a conscientious objector in the same Bibleclass with the parents of a marine, or member of anyother combat unit and the passage for study in Romans 13. In all such cases, brethren ought to be able to state their views and then respect the sensitivities and consciences of those of contrary persuasion. Some have challenged the patriotismof those who differed from their choice. In reality,the most patriotic thing any of us can do in wartime orpeacetime is to be a devout Christian, contributing the salt, light and leaven of a godly character, forafter all, "righteousness exalts a nation but sin is areproach to any people" (Prov. 14:34).

Of necessity, these questions will have to be pondered by young men and anxious parents in thedays ahead. The prospect of war on any scale in a frightful thing to contemplate. The unrighteousenvironments which surround military bases aroundthe world and entice young people far removed fromthe direct influences of godly parents and interestedbrethren have contributed much to the spiritualdecline and downfall of many. On the other hand, thepresence of young people who were devoted to theLord even under adverse circumstances has been responsible for the establishment of congregations allover the world. Whatever route one takes is not easyto pursue especially in wartime.

So then, brethren, and especially young men andconcerned parents, study the matter in light of whatthe Bible teaches. Keep cool heads and honest hearts.For the sake of helping clarify these issues, we are willing to carry an article of reasonable length, written in the right spirit, from a representative brother on either side of this matter. We do not propose to turn this paper over to a running battle onthis issue, but feel that the times warrant some helpfor all of us. Stay tuned.

Before we study question 4 and the Baptist

answer, we need to make a careful study of the term

"Baptist" and try to settle the issue on what name

we are to wear. This has been referred to, and will be

again in this study, so we need to learn the truth on

the name controversy before we go further.

What did the name "Baptist" mean when used with reference to John in the New Testament? When we learn this, we should know whether or not we areto wear the name today, or whether it can or shouldbe applied to the average member of the Baptist Church.

What did Zacharias and Elisabeth name their son? "And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John, . . . And they made signs to hisfather, how he would have him called. And he askedfor a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name isJohn" (Luke 1:60, 62, 63). That settles that! Then why was he called "Baptist" and what does the termmean?

"BAPTISTES a baptist, is used only of John theBaptist, and only in the Synoptists, 14 times." (Expository Dictionary of N.T. Words, W.E. Vine, p.97) ". . .a baptizer; one who administers the rite ofbaptism ..." (Thayer's Greek-English Lexicon, p. 95).

It is obvious that no one today can wear the nameBaptist with the meaning that it had when used withreference to John. The only other meaning is "a baptizer" or one who baptizes. Members of the Baptist denomination do not baptize, therefore theyare not baptists or baptizers. In the true sense of theterm, anyone who baptizes people is a baptizer, but itis something to be done and not a name to be worn.I have in my library a copy of a translation called"The American Bible Union New Testament." It was first published in 1864. It grew out of a controversy which the Baptists had with the American Bible Society over whether the Greek word for baptize orbaptism should be translated by the English term "immerse" or an equivalent. The Society discouragedsuch rendering, since those who accepted sprinklingand pouring for baptism could not conscientiouslycirculate a version which consistently employed theword immerse or an equivalent. "The Baptists took offense and a controversy ensued." (Schaff-Herzog Encyclopedia of Religious Knowledge, Vol. II, p. 92).The direct outcome of the controversy was the formation of the American Bible Union. This new society decided to make a translation which would conform as nearly as possible to the original, and they "secured the services of a number of Baptist andother Biblical scholars, especially the Rev, Drs. H. B.Hackett, A. C. Kendrick and T. J. Conant."

They produced a good translation. We now note certain verses from it:

"In those days comes John the Immerser, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, and saying:Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand" (Matt.3:1). "Verily I say to you, among those born ofwomen, there has not risen a greater than John theImmerser. But he who is least in the kingdom ofheaven is greater than he" (Matt. 11:11). "And he said to them: Go into all the world, and preach thegood news to every creature. He that believes and isimmersed shall be saved; but he that believes notshall be condemned" (Mark 16:15, 16).

What is my point in referring to this translation?It is this: Although this was a work of the Baptist people, the word "Baptist" is not in it! They hadtranslated the terms correctly, but then realized thatthey had translated themselves out of a name! To beconsistent, they had to call themselves "Immersers" or stop the publication and circulation of their translation. They chose the latter.

Speaking of Christ and their relationship, John theBaptizer said: "Ye yourselves bear me witness, that Isaid, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent beforehim. He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice; this my joy therefore is fulfilled.He must increase, but I must decrease" (John 3:2830).

The church or kingdom is the bride of Christ. Theanalogy between husband and wife and Christ andthe church is presented in several scriptures. For example, "Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; thatye should be married to another, even him who israised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruitunto God" (Rom. 7:4). See also Second Corinthians

11:2 and Ephesians 5:22-32.

John observed this relationship by speaking ofChrist as the bridegroom and the church as the bride.What position did John occupy in this arrangement?He was "the friend" of the bridegroom, or as wewould say in the vernacular of our time, the bestman. Now, whose name does the bride take, thename of the bridegroom to whom she is married orthe name of the best man in the ceremony? She takesthe name of her husband! Whoever heard of a wife wearing the name of a friend of her husband? Butthat's the way the Baptist people think about John and Christ. They want to be married to Christ butwear the name of John. What Baptist preacher wouldallow his wife to wear the name of his friend?

John's understanding of the true relationship between Christ and the church, was also understoodby A. J. Gordon, a famous Baptist preacher whosaid: "If the church is the bride of Christ, the bridemust have been the same as the bridegroom. If the church is the body of Christ, she must have the samename as her head. It would be strange if my body

and my head should bear different names. In some

comments on the passage, 'The disciples were called

Christians first at Antioch,' it is held that the name

was given in derision. I think not. If you study the

use of the Greek word 'called' you will conclude that

they were divinely called Christians. God gave them

that name." (Select Northfield Sermons) On this

same point, Charles H. Spurgeon said, "I look

forward with pleasure to the day when there will not

be a Baptist living. I hope they will soon be gone. I

hope the Baptist name will soon perish; but let

Christ's name last forever." (Spurgeon Memorial

Library, Vol. I, p. 168)

Some in the church at Corinth were wearing the names of men such as Peter, Paul and Apollos (1Cor. 1:12). The inspired apostle Paul rebuked themfor this, and then emphasized a great truth by askingthree questions: "Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name ofPaul?" (1 Cor. 1:13) The answer to each of these rhetorical questions was NO. If Paul is teachinganything, he is teaching that we can wear only thename of the one who was (a) crucified for us, and (b)in whose name we are baptized. Who is that? The Lord Jesus Christ! If it was wrong for them to wearthe name of Peter or of Paul, would it not have been equally wrong for them to wear the name of John? Isthe same true today? Certainly it is!

The Bible says, "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" (Acts4:12). Is that name Baptist? No. It is "the name ofJesus Christ" the "stone" which is "the head of the corner" (Acts 4:10, 11). After the uniting of Jews and Gentiles in the one body (Isaiah 62:2) the disciplesof Christ were called Christians (Acts 11:26). Paul persuaded King Agrippa to be a Christian (Acts 26:28, 29). Peter wrote, "Yet if any man suffer as aChristian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf (in this name, ASV)" (1 Peter4:16). Where do we find such teaching in the Bibleconcerning the name Baptist? Be honest about it.Where is such teaching? Where was anyone otherthan John called a Baptist or Baptists? Where didany inspired man command or admonish anyone towear the name Baptist?

We are told to do all things in the name of Christ,and to give Him preeminence in every way (Col. 1:18;3:17). How can one do this while wearing the name ofJohn the Baptist? This can be done by wearing thename Christian. It is a patronymic name — a name formed by the addition of a prefix or suffix indicatingrelationship. The Christian is related to Christ, and the spiritual name is formed by adding the suffix-ian.When one is called a Christian, the name of Christ issounded and He is given the glory and honor which He demands. Who is honored and glorified by the name Baptist? Not the Lord! Surely everyone can understand this. Will everyone accept this plain andsimple truth? If you are a Baptist, the decision isyours, but please remember that there is salvation inno name except the name of Christ!

(This study will continue in the next issue.)

"FROM FIRST TO TWELFTH"

Admittedly, we are all numbers orientated. Whenwe walk into a church building, about the first thing we look for is the attendance record. We are accustomed to asking preachers about the size of the congregation where they preach. Some go far enough to "judge" a preacher's success by the size of thegroup for which he preaches! If he preaches for alarge congregation, he is a "big" preacher, and if hepreaches for a small group, he is a "little" preacher.We hear about numbers and more numbers. Several years ago a church in Tennessee and one in Texas gotinto a challenge as to which of the two congregationshad the largest attendance. I understand the one in Tennessee won by claiming to have about five thousand in attendance. It was then announced that this congregation was the largest Church of Christ inthe brotherhood. Many congregations looked on with envy because of the so called success of that congregation. What does all of this mean? Well, it means that some have made an idol out of "numbers" rather than the living God!

In one of the issues of ENSIGN, Carl Ketcherside bemoans the fact that the Church of Christ has toppled from first place to twelfth. He says, "This means there are eleven other sects now enjoyinggreater popularity than our own. When we were 'topdog' upon the score chart, the Lord was blessing us.Now satan is working overtime to push others of hischoice to the fore-front. Any time anyone passes us,it is satan in the saddle and the Lord is in deep trouble." I notice that Carl uses the word "popularity" in comparing the Church of Christ withthe sects. This is the first time I knew the Church of the Lord was engaged in a popularity contest.Perhaps this has been our problem through the years.We have been more interested in numbers, which brings us popularity rather than in the simple gospelof Christ. He also tells us that when the sects pass usin numbers, Satan is in the saddle and the Lord is in deep trouble. I am sure the Lord appreciated Carltelling him that he was in "deep trouble!" I havenews for Carl and that is the Lord has never been in trouble, it is his vain people who are in trouble.

Some may ask, why so much talk about numbers?The answer is simple; there is power in both moneyand numbers. Both inflate the "ego" of mankind but these items do not have that effect on the Lord. So many problems in the church are over power struggles, and are precipitated by power hungry brethren. They do their work under the disguise of loving the Lord and working for his cause but actually they work for self! If the church has fallenfrom first place to twelfth, so what? Does this of itself mean the church is unsound? Hardly. We have become so enamored with numbers we can't reason

without counting noses. We talk about churches "dying on the vine" and boast about the numericalgrowth of others. Brethren, I say again this means absolutely nothing. The Lord at one time had "large" numbers following him and then later He had "small" numbers following him but He was still the Lord! Let us swallow our pride and get back to the basics. Letthe word of God be our standard of authority. If thegospel brings us a great in-gathering of souls, let usgive God the glory and rejoice in the harvest. However, if we find the hearts of the people arehardened, let us not be weary in well doing for in dueseason we shall reap if we faint not (Gal. 6:9). Let us thank God for the "few" whose hearts have been tendered by the glorious gospel and press on.

THEY'RE STILL MARCHING

The Madison Church of Christ now has its "FamilyLife Center." This was headlined as "A Giant Step Forward" in the Madison Marcher of Nov. 15, 1978. It's a giant step all right. We have serious questionsconcerning the direction.

What is a Family Life Center? According to theirreport, it includes a gymnasium, an exercise room, areception room, and a fellowship room. The latter "has been designated for suppers and banquets" naturally.

Raymond Harris puts it succinctly: "Why not just call it the Community Church and get it over with? The Madison Church derives income from: interest, funds transferred from special savings accounts, syndication of a T.V. program, baby sitting fees, Bible class contributions, dividends, child care funds, memorial gifts, estate gifts and camp fees. Church expenses include such items as:lake repairs, kitchen expenses, craft supplies, pool expenses, horse expenses and rifle range expenses."

"Ira North, preacher at Madison, is also Editor ofThe Gospel Advocate. His Associate Editor, Guy N.Woods, recently went on record as claiming that hedidn't know of any churches of Christ that were supporting recreational activities. I know some preachers who would like to give Brother Guy a tourof East Nashville.

What did Paul mean, I wonder, when he wrote,

"And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together unto condemnation"(1 Cor. 14:34).

But where Madison leads, others soon follow. The Nashville Banner of August 14, 1979 reported the dedication of a new $450,000 family life center at theJackson Park Church of Christ in Inglewood. The gymnasium can accommodate basketball, skating, and volleyball. Volunteer staff will direct the recreation each evening except Sundays and Wednesdays.

Brethren, not only is recreation being financially supported by liberal churches of Christ, it is infiltrating even the worship and study periods of these churches.

For some time, denominational groups have usedeverything from Karate to strippers to attract an audience. Now, according to a newspaper ad from Washington, D.C., the church of Christ at Falls Church, Virginia, sponsored what they call "Inspiration Time," August 24-26, 1979.

Featured was a gymnast who promised an excitingnew stunt to be revealed for the first time on the steps of the Nation's Capitol, and a beauty queen who holds the title of Miss Georgia. Along with these, a couple of preachers were mentioned. (Poor fellows, I'd hate to follow those acts!) While nothingwas said of the Biblical scholarship of these men,readers were promised that they are "unique, dynamic, exciting, explosive, enthralling, and inspiring."

Perhaps the title of the next item would have beenmore descriptive of this one.

THAT'S A LOT OF GARBAGE

A curious item, this one. It comes via Gene Taylorand The Truth Seeker, bulletin of the Northwest congregation in Evansville where Gene preaches.

According to a UPI release at Chicago which wasreprinted in the Nov. 4, 1979 issue of said publication, "Mary McCarthy, a 67-year-old retired cleaning woman, says long working hours and harsh winters prevented her from taking out her garbagefor 17 years.

"City sanitation crews, bearing a search warrant,entered the woman's home Friday and spent the nextthree days hauling away 20 tons of the refuge that accumulated in the maggot-cockroach-and-ratinfested house.

"Neighbors said the small gray South Side houseemitted a particularly foul stench.

" 'I didn't get time to take it out,' Mrs. McCarthysaid. 'I worked 5 (in the evening) to 12 and during the day I took care of a neighbor of mine who wassick. In the winter, I couldn't take it out because the snow was blocking the way. I couldn't shovel it.'

"Melvin Dubrock, a work supervisor with the sanitation crew, said when the refrigerator was removed Saturday, rotting food covered with maggots was discovered inside.

" 'We want to get in and get out as quickly aspossible,' Dubrock said. 'It's not the easiest job for the crews.'

"To remove the rubble, workers had to take thefront door of Mrs. McCarthy's home off its hinges.

"City building inspector said there was so much garbage in the frame house the door wouldn't open and there was barely room to move around."

Now, a number of good lessons may be drawn fromsuch an occurrence. For example, dutiful wives mayfind help here in emphasizing to their lazy husbandswhat can happen if the garbage isn't taken out.

Spiritual garbage (sin) has a way of accumulating,too. Over a period of 17 years, or so, it can prettywell fill up a person's life. And the longer it accumulates, the more sickening the condition becomes. Jehovah described the condition of Judah at one point in these words: "The whole head is sick, and the whole heart is faint. From the soul ofthe foot even unto the head there is no soundness in it; but wounds, and bruises, and putrefying sores .. ."(Isa. 1:5, 6).

And you know, when that spiritual garbage pilesup, freedom is quite restricted. Procrastination is the progenitor of bondage.

I like the point that Brother Taylor makes: "Whydo people who know what to do to take the corruption of sin out of their lives not do it? Why dopeople who know and understand gospel teaching concerning the cleansing of their souls not obey thatteaching? What reasonable answer can be given? None! Their 'reasons' are akin to Mrs. McCarthy's reasons for not taking out her garbage . . . just feeble excuses:

"1) 'I don't have the time'; 2) 'Other things aremore important right now (such as caring for a sickneighbor)'; 3) 'Something is blocking me from obeying.' "

Just a lot of garbage!God says, "Wash you, make you clean; put away theevil of your doing from before mine eyes; cease to doevil; Learn to do well . . . ." (Isa. 1:16, 17). -------o----

50 PERCENT INCREASE IN SICKNESS

That's what Boston officials predicted as city hospitals made preparations for the pope's recentvisit to our country. That visit is now history, and whether the prediction proved accurate, I haven't heard. But I found the contrast between Jesus and Pope John Paul II who claims to be His Representative, and between Peter and the pope who claims to be his successor, glaring, to say the least.

The AP article stated that Boston hospitals were planning their busiest day ever. They were makingelaborate plans to cope with the 50 percent increase in heart attacks and other medical emergencies thatwere expected when the pope celebrated Mass on Boston Common.

The increase was expected due to "a lot of ill people (who would) make the effort to see the pope inthe hope it will help them by receiving special blessings."

Apparently, the medical authorities weren't as hopeful as these poor deluded souls.Funny, when the multitudes flocked about Jesus,". . . He healed many that were sick of divers

diseases . . . " (Mark 1:34). And when the sick were brought to Peter, "they were healed every one" (Acts5:15,16).

Winston Churchill was supposed to have remarked

that the English and American people were separated

by a common language. Whether it were he or

someone else, it makes a good introduction for this

article.

I've written for several publications, and one editorinformed me that my articles were as nearly ready forthe printer as any of those which he received, fromthe standpoint of spelling, punctuation, and grammar. After seeing some of the manuscripts which are presented for publication, that editor may not have been saying too much at that! If an editor were to say the things I intend to say, it may havean adverse affect on the number of manuscripts whichhe receives. Maybe I can say a few things which will help the editors of various publications, as wellas those who write.

Both writing and speaking can be cultivated untilthey are an art within themselves. If either speakingor writing become boring to those doing them, youcan rest assured that they are even more so to the reader and the hearer. It is next to impossible for theextemporaneous speaker to be grammatically perfect.Sometimes a sentence is begun in such a way thatyou have one of two alternatives—either back up andstart over, or finish it incorrectly. With writing wecan be more exact, though not perfect, because wehave the luxury of erasing the offending portion, orthrowing it in the trash can and starting over. Evenwith all these precautions, some printer will leave outor add a letter, a syllable, or a word at the most strategic places. Occasionally, they may leave out anentire sentence, and on at least one occasion,someone lost my whole article! The reader was not tobe spared so easily—I re-wrote the whole thing.

It is evident that some writers need to review basic sentence structure, including parts of speech and punctuation. I'm sure that some editors deserve an "assist" by the time our articles see the light of day,but when we act as our own editors, we lose that advantage. I refer to the many bulletins publishedamong us, with as many editors. I think some writersuse the exclamation point (!) more than they use the period or the question mark. This can only be explained by one of about three alternatives, unless Ihave overlooked something. These prolific advocatesof the exclamation point either don't understand its meaning, have a typewriter with an unusual keyboard, or else they think that almost everythingthey say is of such profound importance that the

period is unworthy to herald the climax to their

exuberant utterance. Then, if they really want to

impress us, they simply add a sufficient number of

exclamation points (thusly, !!!) befitting such a gem

of grammatical grandeur. Generally, those in this

category are the younger journalists, and after that

particular key on their typewriter becomes warped

from excessive use, and they stand ankle-deep in

pieces of chalk which have contacted the chalkboard

too forcibly, they will settle down to a more sedate

manner of expressing themselves.

We don't have to be highly, or even formally educated, in order to be effective in speaking or writing. Some' who have speech impediments are still interesting speakers. And, if we can't write long sentences easily, keep them short. Some questionable words and phrases (such as "ain't"), may be permissible, and even effective, when used sparinglyand purposely. Some of the worst offenders are thehighly educated who can't (or won't) express themselves in language which can be easily understood.

When writing an article, make a rough draft or outline, then type from it. Let the article "season" for a few hours, or even a day or two, then re-read, retype, throw it away, or send it to the editor. Double-space your manuscript, and leave suitable margins forcorrections or additions by the editor. He may wantto add a line of praise to your literary effort, but hecan't do it if you don't give him room. You can checkthe Appendix of any good dictionary for helpful points in writing.

If you really want to improve your writing, you can obtain something like Walsh's Plan EnglishHandbook, take a correspondence course in English Composition (if it isn't convenient for you to attendclasses), and check the library or bookstore for related material. It would even be helpful (especiallyto the editors), to read up on the basic laws whichpertain to journalism. There may not be much of a problem in religious journalism pertaining to copyrights, plagiarism, and libel, especially amongbrethren, but editors still have to protect themselvesand practice that ethical behavior which promotes responsible journalism.

There are those among us who are certainly morequalified to write on this subject than am I, but Ihaven't seen much effort along this line, and thoughtthe several editors may appreciate some help. If youstick to the Bible in your writings, you won't have toworry about the content of your writing; the moreyou quote from the Bible, the less you will have to beconcerned about sentence structure and grammar;and, by improving in the remaining areas, yourliterary offerings can be interesting and informative.Good writing! Full Speed ahead!! And hold down onthe exclamation points!!!(EDITOR'S NOTE: An article of this kind is long overdue. I am sure other editors will join me in thanking brother Casebolt for this. Whileappreciated all he said, his comments about the useof the exclamation point are especially needed. Thereis a proper place for it but it should be used sparingly. When over-used it is an expression of doubt on the writer's part that he has adequately said exactly

what he meant to, or else that he fears the readermay not have the discernment to recognize brilliancewhen he reads it. Incidentally, brother Casebolt practices what he preaches along this line. We haveseldom caught any kind of flaw in one of his manuscripts. CWA)

A GOOD NAME

"A good name is rather to be chosen than greatriches, and loving favour than silver and gold" (Proverbs 22:1).

We need in our time to instill in our children the value of a good name. A name sums up all we are. Ihave the same first name and middle initial as myfather. He is called by his first name and I by mysecond. Many times I have been asked what the "J"stands for. Let me tell you a little about that "J".

It stands for a man who is great because he has no idea that he is. A man born of poor parents in eastern North Carolina who spent his early years learning to farm and driving a team of mules "snaking" logs. His mother died when he was twelve largely due to the hardships of the times. As the oldest he was needed to work while the other five children went to school thus preventing his finishing elementary school. Born to strong conservative viewshe always wanted to be a preacher. Tried in the crucible of hard times, he developed a strong bodyaccompanied by an honest heart.

What does the "J" stand for? A man who pursuedhis girl friend to eastern Virginia when her widowedmother took her children there to make a living byrunning a boarding house. He married her and that area became home and still is. The "J" stands for a man who through struggle was fitted to withstandthe depression of the 1930's as few others were. It stands for a man who told a bootlegger to move hiswares when we moved into a house in which he had his product stored even though he offered him moneyfor the storage space. It stands for a man who in the midst of hard times bought some land, cleared it,sawed logs, hauled them to the mill, built a house of green, rough lumber, taught his sons to pull a crosscut saw. The "J" stands for a man who in the midst of hard times set an abundant table, felt for the underdog, extended hospitality to so many theyare Legion, and became a blessing to his neighbors.Supported by a wife who was as prepared as he forthose days, together they farmed, raised chickens,paid for their "place", raised two sons and a daughter, gave a home to my grandmother, my great grandmother, his unmarried sister, his aged father.

What does the "J" stand for? A man who led his family from digression to truth in the early 1940's,who later led them away from liberalism to continuein the way of truth. When his sons left to preach andhis daughter married a preacher, the thought of anempty house was too much to consider. They took infoster child after foster child and provided a type ofcare they never dreamed existed.

What does the "J" stand for? An honest man who has been known to pay his bills at the rate of 50 c aweek, a man whose practice was to always look aman straight in the eye, tell him your situation. No one ever refused him credit. The "J" stands for a man who has become a preacher after all through the eldership and his children and grandchildren who preach.

What does the "J" stand for? It stands for all we have mentioned and many more abundant memories,so many they would fill a rather large volume. I praythat I can do as well with the "W" as my father hasdone with the "J".

"A good name is rather to be chosen than greatriches. . ." By JOYNER WILEY ADAMS

On the evening of December 21, the gentle spirit ofthe amiable Luther G. Roberts took its flight to the better world.

During the last two years, brother Roberts' health rapidly declined (mainly because of Parkinson's disease). He became conscience of his failing healthin 1977 and saw it was best to "retire" from full-time work with the North Freeport church, Freeport,Texas which he did in September of 1977. From thattime until his death, he lived with his beloved and devoted wife Christine in Refugio, Texas.

The last nine months or so were especially hard forhim. It is difficult to describe the anguish and heartache he felt in not being able to communicate with those he loved. But, he faced the inevitable with great courage and confidence. And, oh how he lovedand appreciated his beloved Christine. She was an ever-present help and joy at his side. No one has ever beenblessed with a more loving and sacrificing wife.

Dean Bullock, long-time friend and co-worker, conducted the funeral December 24, 1979 in Refugio,Texas. He spoke of the life-long service brother Roberts rendered to the Lord and His church. Brother Bullock's main topic was 2 Timothy 4: 6-8,"For I am now ready to be offered, and the time ofmy departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight,I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge,shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing." He related how well this correlated with the life and service of Luther G. Roberts.

Born near Wildersville, Henderson County,Tennessee, February 28, 1903, he was raised by godlyparents, whose primary concern for their children wastheir education. Luther grew up on farms in Henderson County and attended such "country" schools as Cross Roads, Sandy, Long Sought, andWildersville. In the fall of 1918, his family movedto Henderson, Chester County, Tennessee. Here he attended Freed-Hardeman College grade school part of1918-19; and then from 1919 to 1923, he attendedFreed-Hardeman College High School. In the fall of 1923, at the invitation of A. G. Freed, he enteredDavid Lipscomb High School and graduated in thespring of 1924. After being out of school for sometwo years, he again entered Freed-Hardeman Collegein January of 1927 and finished Junior College workin the spring of 1928. Some of his teachers duringthis period were A. G. Freed, N. B. Hardeman, L. L. Brigance, W. H. Owen, E. H. Ijams, W. E. Morgan and M.S. Mason. He completed his work for his B.

S. degree at West Texas State College, Canyon, Texas in 1930.

Luther did his first "local work" with the church in Canyon, Texas. From there he moved to Post,Stephenville, San Angelo and Amarillo, Texas. In thefall of 1943, he moved to Abilene where his first wifeAnna served as Dean of Women, while he devoted his time wholly to meeting work. From Abilene he movedto Dallas, then to Pampa, Texas. In February of 1948 he accepted the invitation to work with the church in Clovis, New Mexico, where he stayed fouryears, then, he moved to Corsicana, Borger, andagain to Amarillo, Texas. From Amarillo he movedto Salem, Oregon where he preached for ten yearsand did some of his most satisfying and profitablework. Anna died at Salem in December of 1965. He married Christine Evans in 1967, and in 1968 theymoved to Tucumcari, New Mexico. From Tucumcari he moved to Freeport, Texas, where he preached untilhe retired to live in Refugio, Texas, in September of1977.

Ira A. Douthitt, under whose preaching Lutherwas persuaded to obey the gospel and by whose hands he was baptized, used to tell of Luther's conversion and subsequent life as a gospel preacherto his audiences to emphasize what the value of onelife can be for the Cause of Christ. It would be impossible to conceive of the many people brotherRoberts' life has influenced for good. His direct preaching and his association with people have led thousands to know Christ and what it means to be a Christian and to reverence and obey Christ. This good influence is yet with us and will continue on and on.

Luther preached in half the states and Canada. He engaged in debates to uphold the banner of truth. Hewas editor of "THE PRECEPTOR" magazine from May 1955 through April 1956. He edited "THE ORACLES" from January 1961 through January 1963. THE ORACLES was dedicated to fight against institutionalism and liberalism, especially inthe Northwestern states.

His preaching was characterized by clearness,forcefulness, and was always marked with emphasis on the scriptures. He spoke in a most pleasing manner with precise diction, good grammar and complete sentences. The greatest aspect of his preaching was his love for the truth and an uncompromising spirit.

Luther worked tirelessly in an effort to serve Christin the things that would promote the kingdom of Godupon the earth. His devotion to the cause of truth had been unquestioned. He stood with the truth whenit was not popular to do so, especially at the time institutionalism became an issue.

We extend our sympathy to sister Roberts and his son John T. Roberts of Salem, Oregon. The exceeding great and precious promises of God aretheirs; while their husband and father rests from hislabors and his works will follow after him.

Truly the life of Luther G. Roberts is a song to beremembered. The song is ended but the melody lingers on.

EVIDENCES — JESUS LIVED

In this article we want to give some external andinternal evidences that Jesus of Nazareth actually lived. Not only do we have the words of those who wrote the New Testament that Jesus lived, but historians who were contemporary with Jesus haverecorded things concerning his life and death. (Much of the documented proof that will be cited will betaken from the book, Evidence That Demands A Verdict, by Josh McDowell).

During the lifetime of Jesus, there were historiansjust as we have historians today. A Roman historian named Cornelius Tacitus, born A.D. 52-54, was the son-in-law of Julius Agricola. As concerning the reign of Nero he writes of the rumor that Nero had ordered the fire at Rome. "To suppress the rumor, he falselycharged with the guilt, and punished with the mostexquisite tortures, the persons commonly called Christians, who were hated for their enormities. Christus, the founder of the name, was put to deathby Pontius Pilate, procurator of Judea in the reign ofTiberius: but the pernicious superstition, repressedfor a time broke out again, not only through Judea,where the mischief originated, but through the city ofRome also." (Annal XV.44).

Flavius Josephus a Jewish Historian, born 37 A.D.became a Pharisee at the age of 19; and in A.D. 66 he was the commander of the Jewish forces in Galilee. He was captured and attached to the Romanheadquarters. He is quoted as saying after his capture, "Now there was about this time Jesus, awise man, if it be lawful to call him a man, for he was a doer of wonderful works, a teacher of such men as receive the truth with pleasure. He drew over tohim both many of the Jews, and many of the Gentiles. He was the Christ..." Antiquities

XVIII:33. (Early second century).

Not only do we have external evidence in the formof the above quoted historians, and many otherscould be cited, but since we have shown in previousarticles that the Bible is the Word of God, and affirms that God cannot lie (Titus 1:2), we now turnto the internal evidence.

The first prophecy that was given concerning theChrist was in Genesis chapter three after Adam andEve had sinned in the garden of Eden. God said concerning Satan and the woman, Eve, who was deceived by Satan, "I will put enmity between theeand the woman, and between thy seed and her seed;it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise hisheel" (Genesis 3:15). This is the one and only timethe Bible refers to "the seed of woman." However the matter is explained more fully in Isaiah 7:14. "Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign;behold a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, andshall call his name Immanuel." This prophecy wasfulfilled in Mt. 1:18-25. Though many claim to believe inJesus, they scoff at the idea of a virgin (a woman whohad never cohabited with a man) bearing a son and make Genesis 3:15 and Isaiah 7:14 myths never fulfilled.

Many in derision have said that the account concerning Mary being found with child before shemarried Joseph was true, that Jesus was an illegitimate child, and that Mary had conceived thechild by a Roman soldier who was its father. Such isnothing more than blasphemy. It is also interesting to note that they acknowledge that the account concerning her being with child is a factual account,while in the same context that which was spokenconcerning her virginity is not true. Jesus was bornof a virgin according to the Scriptures. That's not about it, that's it!

To deny that Jesus lived would be to deny secularhistory. To deny that He was born of a virgin—thusThe Son of God, is to deny Devine history.

My dear beloved brethren: I am indeed perplexed

over a most ungodly condition which is very

prominent in our nation today. For example, the

rapid rate of increase in divorce, abortion, and

premarital sex statistically is alarming.

We may well ask who or what is responsible for

this deteriorating condition, which continues to create

many problems? Is there no cure for these ills, and

solution to these problems? Will you kindly permit

me to share with you some of my humble experiences

while in Hinduism?

Fifty-six years ago I was born a Hindu in

Georgetown, Guiana, now independent Guiana, South

America. My ancestors came from India, being

brought to Georgetown by the British people as

immigrants to work in the sugar plantations.

At the age of twenty (February 1944), I was married to my wife, under the Hindu culture, and in keeping with Hindu tradition. My wife was thirteen years of age at the time. This beautiful and harmonious marriage has lasted for some 36 years in which our family has grown to include 3 sons, 1 daughter, and two grandsons. The young age of marriage may be attributed to Hindu custom andtradition, the system being characterized strictly byparental arrangements and supervision by both sets of parents. In the best interests, and in consideration ofthe best welfare, parents of both myself and my wife were seeking and choosing the wife and husband respectively. With this thought in mind, both sets ofparents will investigate and examine thoroughly thebackground and history of each prospective husband and wife; sometimes requiring months of periodical meetings together between the parents before theyfinally decide upon the proper partners for marriage.The final decision in this important matter is basedupon the findings and analysis of the parents. While all this investigation and study is being done by theparents, the boy and girl do not even see each other.When the decision has been finalized by the parents,agreeing for the son to marry the daughter, the parents of the son will then bring him to the girl'sparents home to meet the parents and his prospectivebride. This is the first time the boy and girl have any knowledge that they are to become husband and wife.Thus according to Hindu custom and tradition, the boy and girl have no choice but to respect the decision that has been made for them by their parents. They understand that just as was the case inthe lives of their parents and grandparents, theymust live together "until death do us part." Under Hindu arrangements, divorce, fornication, adultery,

abortion and things of this nature were relatively

unknown. In fact, virginity was highly respected and

honored, and both husband and wife under this

arrangement have the highest regard for each other,

although neither knows God or Jesus Christ or the

gospel.

The girl was brought up to understand and came to

a realization that her husband was all she possessed

for the rest of her life. She must serve him "till death

do us part." This she has inherited from her Hindu

culture.

I would now like to present some very interesting

facts of the Hindu system which regulate the conduct

of the prospective marriage partners: after the boy

and girl have seen each other, they are not permitted

any association with each other until after the

marriage. Please note, that this rule does not imply a

lack of trust, but I know it defeats the Devil in his

devices to corrupt the prospective marriage partners

before the marriage. During the waiting period before

marriage, there is absolutely no love-making; in fact,

we did not know or understand what love-making

meant or was all about. We were simply following the

rules and examples of our ancestors, and this we

understood that once married, it was for all time, and

despite the hardships and trials they stuck together

till the end. Since it was not possible to visit or touch

your future companion until after marriage, we were

ignorant of romance, dating, love-making, courting,

kissing, etc.

Although Hinduism is idolatry, and it may bebackwardness in culture, with the prohibition of thecontact between the prospective partners, the Devilhas a difficult time of exercise of his plan. We maynot altogether agree with these Hindu principles orHindu culture but I believe we can see the wisdom in some of these principles. In Hinduism, young women are taught by their mothers and grandmothers to love, respect and serve their husbands till death. During the Hindu wedding ceremony, the garment ofthe bride and the garment of the groom are literallytied (joined) together. As they walk slowly forward,she follows behind him in symbolic recognition of herhusband as her guide and leader, and in humblenessof heart she never feels equal to him. This is in greatcontrast with the attitude of many (some Christians)today. Too many wives today have very little if anyregard for their husbands, and this in a so-called "Christian nation."

Now, what is your estimation of the value of theseHindu principles? Please consider, if you will, that young people in our day and culture are most fortunate; living in a fully developed western civilization and "Christian" influences. They have theright or freedom of choice and decision. We are characterized by a society which professes to knowGod and His son Jesus Christ, and yet we are besieged by the most degenerate prevailing conditions. The divorce rate is alarming, abortion may be had almost at will, and premarital sex is free ondemand. Where are we lacking, and who is responsible? (Editor's note: Brother Persaud does not recommend that in our culture marriages must be arranged by parents without the consent of their children as ispracticed in Hinduism. But he does make an interesting point as to the lasting nature of sucharranged marriages in contrast to the devastating rate of divorce in a society which boasts that its freedom rests upon divine principles of truth. What we see is the abuse of privilege under law to Christ.Ponder his words well. CWA)

Every effect requires an adequate cause. All that

now exists is the effect of whatever caused it to come

into being. We ask, then, what caused the universe

and all that's in it? However one answers, his

solution must be sufficient to adequately explain it

all; whether he looks to God or to some chance

accident for his answer, he must be able to

demonstrate the adequacy of that solution.

Look at two effects: a wrist watch and a car. How

do we account for their existence? What caused

them? Did they suddenly appear out of the air? Did

they result from a chance explosion of gases and

other elements? Could a horse have made them, or

did they grow on a vine? We readily recognize these

"causes" as neither adequate nor rational.

And why are those causes insufficient? Because the two effects show intelligence in their design? Becausethey exhibit careful engineering and workmanship?Who would deny that these "causes" are the onlyrational explanation? What, then, explains them: ablind accident of "nature" or an intelligent and skilled workman?

The livable earth and our orderly universe areeffects which also demand an adequate cause. Are they marked by chaotic disorder or by detaileddesign, skillful craftsmanship, marvelous engineering,and awesome intelligence? Do we see such qualities ofan intelligent personality which explains the wristwatch but refuse to see them as explaining the solarsystem, from which the watch was copied? Do wedemand an intelligent cause for the car but not forthe laws of science and physics which make it possible to make and to operate it?

When we see the inescapable evidences of intelligent planning, skill, engineering, mathematicalprecision, and workmanship in our livable world,logic requires us to see behind them an Intelligenceand a Power adequate and infinite enough to explain them: and that Intelligent Power is the AlmightyGod revealed to us in the Bible. No other cause is either sufficient or rational.

Glenn Jones, in a recent report from Germany,illustrates the problems facing men trying to spreadthe gospel in other parts of the world. He writes, in part:

"In our first session it was clear to me that Paul rejected God's existence, miracles, the inspiration of the Scriptures, sin, and judgment. This did not surprise me since this is a common view amongGerman (and American) theologians. In our readingof Luke He spoke of the serious historical researchbehind the writing of the gospel (Lk 1:01-04). Wealso discussed the significance of basic presuppositions regarding our outlook on nature,showing how it was difficult for Mary and Zachariasto accept the miraculous births announced to them aslong as they looked at natural law alone (Lk 1:18,34); however with God in the picture all things,including miracles, are possible (Lk 1:37). The way Luke ends Jesus' genealogy with God (Lk 3:38) raised the question about how our own personal genealogy should be ended in order to explain our existence ultimately. What is the origin of man's personality: God or matter and energy? Does man possess a soul given by God, or is he a biochemicalmachine? These and many other subjects caused Paul to reconsider his views. It is evident that Paul does not know exactly what he should believe,and the inner struggle between belief and unbelief inthe Biblical sense is still going on in his mind. However, we hope our continued study of God's Word with him will bring him to the belief in thegospel of Jesus Christ."

Bob Nichols, whose experience in Japan is unmatched among preaching brethren today, has often said that one of the biggest problems thereis to teach the concept of God. The Japanese are so steeped in polytheism their language does not have the words necessary to convey the monotheism ofthe Jehovah-God. While stationed there in militaryservice, I saw a situation which well shows how difficult a problem this is. One young serviceman, a member of the congregation there, was dating a Japanese girl he eventually married. He very muchwanted to convert her to the Lord. When he tried to talk with her about God, her answer was: "You are god enough for me." And we think we have problems!

You brethren who are supporting Filipino preachers, please take notice. Due to move inducedand other address changes, I have lost contact with anumber of churches and individual saints assisting inthe work in the Philippines. I would like to regain contact, and soon. Thus, when I return from my 1980preaching trip there, I will be able to send you a copyof the report on that trip, and bring you up to dateon what is happening there. Please, those who are presently supporting a man there, or who are otherwise interested in that work, drop me a line at:1201 Meeks Street, Corinth, Mississippi. Place your name, address, his name and whether this is an individual or a congregation on a postal card and send it along. Do this even if you believe I do haveyour current address, "just in case".

Below is from Royce Chandler, on the work in Columbia, South America.

"From just one Christian to over 130 and in only

18 months! That gives you some idea of the growth

of the Lord's work, of the hunger for the Word, and

the diligence of brother Carlos Restrepo in the city of

Bogota, Columbia. And our recent trip brought

insights that were even more encouraging:

1) The continued, rapid growth in Carlos' spiritual

knowledge and wisdom.

2) The dedicated spirit of the new saints, together

with their warm, profuse, and genuine love which

they openly display toward each other.

3) The relatively large number (8-10) of young,

talented men who are eagerly desiring training and

teaching, in order to spend their lives preaching.

4) The very high quality of the people who now

make up the family of God there, in terms of personal

traits, intelligence, family background (moral) and

training, and diligence in Bible study.

"Brother Wayne Partain, who knows the work well, summarized it well when he said: 'I have no doubt but what Carlos' untiring, relentless teaching way into the wee hours of the morning of individualafter individual is the main explanation for the strength of this group. Nestor, the Leon's, Castors,Jorge Gaitan, Hernan—I'd compare them with the average member in the States who've been members 10 years or more.' Noting that these young saintshave been saints for only a year, that evaluation oftheir growth says volumes about the eagerness withwhich they search the Word.

"They continue to meet and study every night ofthe week (averaged 40 per night while we were thereNov 11-18, 1979), as they've been doing for severalmonths. Many of those baptized have been lost to theLord for a variety of reason; while some of these werejust poor soil, like we find here at home, others ofthem have suffered great pressure and even physicalabuse at the hands of parents, who are determined tosee that their children remain Catholics. That so many of them have remained faithful is a tribute totheir zeal, to Carlos' remarkable drive and work, andto the comfort and strength provided them by ourLord Jesus.

"We rejoice greatly in that work and in the Lord's granting us the opportunity to serve Him in thatcause. Please pray for them."

Shades of faithfulness and 2 Tim 3:12! Persecution resulting from becoming a Christian, and remainingfaithful to the Lord is one thing common to manyplaces overseas. Brother Chandler wrote they losesome there because of this persecution. Well, we lose (quite) a few here, without much persecution. I wonder what would happen if we had to face somereal persecution? The early saints did; and some ofthe present ones do. Would we have the faith tostand? More important than the "we": would I (eachone of us asking him/herself this question)?

Attention elders! A number of churches are assisting in work overseas, in such countries as Rhodesia, South Africa, Nigeria, India, Germany,England, Ireland, various nations in South America,the far east including Japan and the Philippines, andAustralia. I have probably missed some. I mention this for two reasons: First, we might understand theliberals' claim that "the anti's are not doing anything" is false. It is true, however, we could and ought to do a great deal more, so let's not get self-satisfied. Second, to encourage elders in churches having part in these works TO GO THERE PERSONALLY, and see what your support is doing.For fifteen years, I have been trying to get elders tovisit the work they support in the Philippines. To date, my record is unblemished: it is a "perfect" zero.

It is good when preachers go, and help spread theWord in these foreign places. In fact, in many places,if the preacher does not go, no Word will be spread.But it is important elders see the work also, to be knowledgeable concerning it, to insure properstewardship is exercised. An additional benefit wouldbe the eye-opening and startling awakening as to theconditions and difficulties of work in other lands. Such knowledge, such awareness would be verybeneficial in sustaining our zeal in support of theseworks, and prevent growing weary in well-doing (Gal6:9).

God plainly tells us that the kingdom came, and when it did. Most of our religious neighbors are mistaken about it. We should have at hand the Scriptures which teach the truth on this. The claim ofthe Jehovah's Witnesses that the kingdom came in1914 is involved as are the future-kingdom-on-earththeories of the denominations.

With Power

Jesus stated flatly that the kingdom would come inthe lifetime of men listening to him. He did not say,"Maybe". He said, "Verily" in Mark 9:1: "Verily Isay unto you, There are some here of them that standby, who shall in no wise taste of death, till they seethe kingdom of God come with power." The NASBreads, " . . . after it has come with power". To sincere believers in the error we should read this,perhaps over and over. Stress the words, "in no wise". The theorists have a choice. They can rejecttheir theories; or they can reject the Word of God.

But it is of profit to pursue the idea of "with

power" further. Per Luke 24:49 he told them, "But

tarry ye in the city, until ye be clothed with power

from on high". And in answering their question

about the coming of the kingdom (Acts 1:6) he told

them (Verse 8), "But ye shall receive power when the

Holy Spirit is come upon you".

Per Acts 2 the power came. The kingdom came and

was ever afterward referred to as being in existence.

David's Throne

Much is said about prophecies concerning the

throne of David in the promotion of "later kingdom"

theories. On Pentecost (Acts 2:30) the inspired Peter

said that David was a prophet and knew "that God

had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of

his loins he would set one upon his throne."

It is good teaching to stop right there and ask,

"What was David talking about?" The consistent JW

or premillenialist will start telling you that he was

speaking of 1914 or of a kingdom yet future now.

Then, we should kindly point out what the Spirit said

that David was talking about. Verse 31 says "he

foreseeing this spake of the resurrection of the

Christ."

The resurrection and ascension are sometimes spoken of as one. Ephesians 1:20-23 tells us whenJesus was placed over all things. It mentions God's might, "which he wrought in Christ, when he raisedhim from the dead, and made him to sit at his righthand in the heavenly places, far above all rule, andauthority, and power, and dominion, and every namethat is named, not only in this world, but also in thatwhich is to come: and he put all things in subjectionunder his feet, and gave him to be head over allthings to the church, which is his body, the fulness ofhim that filleth all in all."

The Kingdom Now

The apostle Paul wrote to Christians (Col. 1:13) that the Father "delivered us out of the power ofdarkness and translated us into the kingdom of theSon of his love." We can not escape the truth here.The kingdom was in existence. Christians were in it.No one could have been translated into somethingwhich was still 1900 years in the future.

The Spirit-led John agreed with the other inspiredapostles. He wrote (Rev. 1:6) that Jesus "made us tobe a kingdom". Honestly, friend, we can not get afuture kingdom out of that statement. That had happened. Jesus had already done it! Then in Verse 9 we read, "I John, your brother and partaker with youin the tribulation and kingdom and patience which are in Jesus . . . ." Can one be a partaker in akingdom which does not yet exist?

Hebrews 12:28 in the American Standard Version is agreed by all scholars to be exactly what the Greek says: "Wherefore, receiving a kingdom that cannotbe shaken, let us have grace whereby we may offerservice well-pleasing to God with reverence and awe."Obviously the kingdom was present and their"receiving" it (present participle) had to be before theoffering of service. The "translators" of the New World version of the JW's could not face this. So they made it read "to receive" (future)! But God said"receiving" and they and their followers will face it atthe judgment.

For those who want the truth on this subject thereis the word of truth. If people reject that, there isnothing else that will set them free.

The Father has translated His redeemed into the kingdom of the Son of His love. Christians shouldglory and rejoice that Jesus, the King of kings, isreigning over them in his kingdom now.

The eighth chapter of Romans is (at least in thiswriters estimation) one of the mountain tops of theNew Testament. In meaning to the Christian it portrays at once a beautiful picture of what it meansto be a child of God, and as His child, an heir also ofHis glory. Excluding the epilogue and salutationfrom the book, one finds that the verbal as well asthe logical center of this marvelous epistle lies inverses 16-17 of the eighth chapter:

The Spirit Himself bears witness with our

spirit that we are children of God, and if

children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow-

heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with

Him in order that we may also be glorified

with Him. There are two words in this text which in myappraisal suggests the whole train of thought in thechapter. One is "children," the other "heirs." By using the word "children" the apostle seems to express the simple thought of being born of God, ofbelonging to Him. Conversely, by using the word "heir," he suggests the idea of being one in a familyof children that come together into an inheritance ofan estate. The word "child" represents the position ofa child as such, signifying what is to be expectedfrom him in that regard. While the word "heir" conveys the position of the child in the family, denoting the blessings received. Let me suggest to you that there are twelve great thoughts in this chapter concerning the sons of God: six refer to thechild-life (what is expected), and six refer to the family-life (blessings received).

To understand this eighth chapter one must firstrealize that Romans is a book of contrasts, contrasting on the one hand the soul this is without peace, while on the other the soul that is atpeace. Paul uses three words to express the conditionof the soul before one becomes a child of God:

"condemned ............................................... by the law"enslaved" ................................................. by sin"dead" ....................................................... to life

Yet, the apostle shows that children of God are no

longer:

"condemned"......................"no condemnation, "vs. 1

"enslaved".........................."hathmademefree,"vs.2

"dead"................................"SpiritofLife,"vs.2

The once condemned, enslaved, and dead are now justified, free, and alive in Christ. How so? By becomingchildren of God!

Children of God, (vs. l6)

As children of God the apostle first acknowledgesthat God expects from us a spiritual life (vs. 1-3). Wesee in these verses a consideration of three laws: (1) thelaw of the Spirit of life (the gospel, Rom. l:16),(2)the lawof sin and death (involving the dominion which sin has over man and the penalty for such sin,Rom. 6:23; 7:23), and (3) the law of Moses. The pointhere being that the law of the Spirit of life is able toset you free from the law of sin and death which theLaw of Moses could never do (Rom. 7:24-25). There was no way to destroy the reign of sin except through Jesus Christ (Rom. 6:23). Formerly sinreigned as master and held the sinner in captivity, butJesus came and through His sinless life led captivitycaptive (Eph. 4:8). Christ came and conquered (1) theevil forces (Col. 2:15), (2) the devil (1 Jno. 3:8), (3)sin (1 Cor. 15:56-57), and finally (4) death itself (Acts2:22-24). Thus, it is through Christ that we attain aspiritual life. The Savior Himself proclaimed, "I camethat they might have life, and might have it abundantly" (John 10:10). O but you say, "We arestill tempted!" Yes, my friend, but once again Jesusleads us in a spiritual life for He proves the way ofescape (1 Cor. 10:13).

Paul also proclaims that as children, the Lord anticipates from us a spiritual walk (vs. 4). Realizingthat the requirement of the law of Moses was perfectobedience, we see that while not accomplished then,it is fulfilled NOW in those who obey the gospel ("inus"). The gospel, gentle reader, accomplishes whatthe old law could not — it makes us free from sin and thus righteous before God. However, at this pointlet it be noted that the old law WAS perfect as God intended, for we read in Heb. 8:7-8 that the fault was not with the law but with the people. The peoplesinned thus making it necessary for someone to fulfillthe requirement of the law (Matt. 5:17).

Let me interject just here that there are three verbs in the New Testament that cover our whole experience as disciples: (1) "stand," (2) "walk," and (3)"sit." Our standing represents our position in Christwhen after obeying the truth we stand firm upon theRock of Ages. Our walking signifies our progressmade after we have stood (Rom. 6:4). And third, onlyafter we take our stand and show our spiritual walkcan we truly sit with Jesus, There may be many abump and bruise along the way, many a persecution,sickness, and sacrifice to be made, but as children, God expects us to press on toward the prize of thehigh calling of Christ.

Third, Paul informs us that in order to please Himwe must have a spiritual mind (vs. 5-6). There are too many folks nowadays who have their minds set on the flesh, devoting all of their time, effort, and attention on this world. Let me suggest to you thatwhile the mind of the flesh cast it's eyes downward; the mind of the Spirit looks upward. The mind of theflesh feeds on earthly things and trivial matters; while the mind of the Spirit considers heavenlythings. The mind of the flesh only gives death; whilethe mind of the Spirit gives life eternal. The mind ofthe flesh constitutes turmoil; whereas the mind of the Spirit gives the peace that surpasses our understanding. There are three words that explain the "spiritual mind": (1) reference, (2) deference, and (3)preference. The child of God lives with reference to God, with deference to the will of God, and with preference for the approbation and praise of God. Col.

3:2 sums up the goal of the spiritual mind, "Set your mind on the things above, not on the thingsthat are on the earth."

Next, we see that God demands from His children a spiritual growth (vs. 12-14). There are two thingshere taught that are necessary for growth: (1) puttingto death the deeds of the body, and (2) being led bythe Spirit. As one is led by the Spirit he has newgoals and new desires. He serves a new gospel, a newmaster, and has citizenship in a new kingdom. The one involves mortification; the other sanctification.The one involves throwing off the old and dead; theother, taking on the new and living. And while theone involves casting off the poison of the evil one; theother means enjoying the satisfaction of the Bread ofLife. And yet, surprisingly enough many regard theirspiritual growth with a certain flippancy and unconcern resulting in a multitude of spiritual dwarfsin the kingdom of God. And yes, isn't it a good thing that we don't dress physically according toour spiritual knowledge? Talk about indecency! Paul says as children God expects us to grow.Considering other passages such as Eph. 4:14-15; 1Pet. 2:2; and 2 Pet. 3:18 will surely convince us ofour responsibility in that regard.

Then in verse 15 we are admonished to have a spiritual talk. Parents not only expect their childrento walk and to grow, but to talk as well. Do you realize that there are two words which are common for all children, of all ages, and from all continents? These are the words: "mamma" and "papa." While most words have an etymological source, the words "mamma" and "papa" have none, but rather comefrom the grammar of nature. We realize that a child uses the simplest of vowels and because he can makeonly one syllable he simply repeats — "pa-pa." And behold the joy in daddy's face the first time such isuttered! Now watch the similarity as Paul says thatGod gives unto us a spiritual adoption and because ofsuch we cry, "Ab-ba! Father!" Did you know thatthe word "Abba" is Aramaic for "papa?" Realizingour spiritual adoption we cry forth "Ab-ba! Father!"And now see the joy expressed in our heavenly Father's face when we for the first time proclaim ourrelationship to Him.

Yes, what a blessing it is to have a spiritual talk.And without trying to intrude into your personalaffairs dear reader, just let me pose this question:How often do YOU talk with the Father? There is in our society a sad malady called the generation gapwhere a lack of communication exists between parentand child. Mother and dad bemoan the fact that after all they have done for their child, after all the blessings they have bestowed, and after all of thetimes of sacrifice and hardship given for their offspring — their children refuse even to talk with them! And they are CRUSHED and HURT so badly.My friend, now you know how God feels when asHis child you refuse blatantly to communicate withHim! After all He has done for you. After all of the blessings He has bestowed your way, and after allof the sacrifices He has made for YOU — how can you refuse to talk with Him? And as mother and dad are hurt, let me suggest that SO IS GOD! Let usbe more diligent in our spiritual talk, realizing thatwhen we are faced with despair, trials, and tribulations — He is there and promises to help.

And finally Paul says that God gives us a spiritual adoption (vs. 15). The word "adoption" is used heredifferently than what you and I are accustomed to.Now, it means to take into the family someone notborn into the family. However, then it meant by definition, "to attain majority" and referred to the declaration of a son's majority. We see from the old Roman economy that when a boy reached legal age,his father would escort him into the Forum and from the platform announce: "This is my son; he has nowcome to full age; he inherits my name, my prosperity,and my social position." At which time the father would take from his son the toga praetexta (the boy coat) and award to him the toga virilis (the man coat). Turning to the crowd he would again proudlyannounce: "THIS IS MY SON!"

Paul possibly refers to this in verse 23 when hesays that we "wait eagerly for our adoption as sons,"

i.e. we wait for the full blessings that our adoptionaffords. While true that we are adopted uponconversion (vs. 15), we have yet to receive the fullprivileges of adoption (vs. 17). Our adoption uponconversion may be secret to the world, but the timewill come when God takes us unto the Forum of the universe, and from the platform of space announcesbefore all creation: "THIS IS MY SON!" Upon whichHe will give us a new coat, a new dwelling, a newhome — HIS HOME! Why? We are His sons! And assons "heirs according to the promise."

NEXT: The Privileges of Sonship — Heirs of God

SEND NEWS ITEMS TO WILSON ADAMS

Beginning with the April issue this column will be writteneach month by: Wilson Adams, 317 Trinkle Avenue, N. B.,Roanoke, VA 24012. Send all news items to him. If he isnot on your bulletin or newsletter mailing list, please addhim to your list. Others are interested in the work whereyou live and would be edified by knowing of your progress.Wilson Adams preaches for the Georgia Avenue Church inRoanoke, Virginia and is the son of the editor. We appreciate his help with the paper and look forward to thenews columns he will submit each month.

VERNON JUDY, Rt. 4, Box 362, Port Jervis, NY 12771—I havejust started working with the church in Sussex, NJ. We are a small group and would greatly appreciate your fellowship if youare in the area. For information contact me at 201-293-7045. As of this time I still have only about 1/2 of my needed support. This ishindering my work here because of a secular job. If any can helpin this it would be greatly appreciated.

NEW BUILDING IN JACKSON, TENNESSEE RONALD B. ROARK, Jackson, TN— The Hollywood Drivechurch has moved into a new building located at 841 Old HickoryBlvd. The church here is growing and is taking a positive standfor truth in this area. We invite anyone passing through or living in Jackson or vicinity to worship with us. Phone 668-1794.

B. G. ECHOLS, 7 Ridgewood Ave., Glen Ridge, NJ 07028—Although 1979 was not one of our better years, we did see progress in the church in East Orange, New Jersey. Nine were baptized, two restored and three identified. Our average Sundaymorning attendance rose to an all time high of 126 for the year. Westart the new year spending $775 per month on evangelismoutside of New Jersey.

TO NORWAY WALLACE H. LITTLE, 1201 Meeks St., Corinth, MS 38834—Tom Bunting (1327 Clifton Road, Savannah, TN 38372)plans to move to Norway to preach. God willing, he will depart inJune, 1980 and remain there for several years. The few saints whoformerly worshipped there are scattered. Some have passed away.Tom has been there before and knows the people, the country andthe language. He is well qualified for the work. His wife shares his enthusiasm for it also. They are willing to go. Who will send? Histotal support requirement is $2,000 per month. He still lacks $1500. The cost of living there would scare most of us. He will need every bit of this, just to get along. At that, it will be anything but "high on the hog". In addition, he still needs half ofhis travel fund. June is not that far away. He has much preparation to do and ought not to have to be concerned with the nagging bother over whether his support will be forthcoming.Brethren, consider this appeal. Contact him and offer your help in this. God will bless you for this.

LECTURES IN PASADENA, TEXAS

The Southside church in Pasadena, Texas where Dee Bowman and Fred Gore preach plans a lecture program for June 2-5.Speakers for the series will be Harry Pickup, Jr., Homer Hailey,Ed Harrell and Connie W. Adams. Specific subjects will be announced next month.

LECTURES IN MT. PLEASANT, TEXAS

PATRICK PARISH, 815 S. Jefferson, Mt. Pleasant, Texas 75455—The Southside church in Mt. Pleasant plans another lecture series for June 15-19. Housing will be provided for visitorswho request it as long as space allows. The theme for this year is: SECULARISM. The following speakers and subjects will be presented:

Sunday—10:30 AM —"What Is Secularism?", Ed Harrell,

Birmingham, Alabama; 6:00 PM —"Characteristics of

Secularism", R. J. Stevens, Port Neches, Texas.

Monday—8 PM-"Which Things Are To Perish With the

Using", Dee Bowman, Pasadena, Texas. Tuesday —The Seeds of Secularism—9:30 AM —"Sensualism: The Lust of the Flesh", Tom Roberts, Fort Worth, Texas; 10:35 AM —"Materialism: The Lust of the Eyes", Ed Harrell; 11:30 AM —"Intellectualism: The Vainglory of Life", Dee Bowman; 8:00PM —"Where Thy Treasure Is", Robert Farish, Sherman, Texas. Wednesday—The Manifestations of Secularism—9:30 AM —"Animalism: Moral Decline", Dee Bowman; 10:35 AM —"Hedonism: Recreational Mania", Robert Farish; 11:30 AM —"Humanism: Antipathy to Spiritual Things", Ed Harrell;

8:00 PM —"What Doth It Profit a Man?", Tom Roberts. Thursday—The Antidote For Secularism—9:30 AM —"The Word of God, Revealing Eternal Values", Robert Farish; 10:35 AM —"The Word of God, Converting Secular Souls", Dee Bowman; 11:30 AM —"The Word of God, Edifying Saints in a Secular Society", Tom Roberts; 8:00 PM —"Choosing Rather", Ed Harrell.

The singing will be directed by R. J. Stevens with the song service beginning at 7:30 each evening.

Page 18

KEN WILLIAMS, 11 Compton Rd., Asheville, NC 28806—Thispast year has been a very good one for us. Our attendance is upfive to ten more over what it was a year ago. We are averaging close to 50 on Sunday mornings. Several new families have movedin. Some of these are from a liberal background, but are showinga willingness to consider these matters open-mindedly. The highlight of the year for me was an opportunity to attend aprivate healing. I had been studying with Steve Jarrad, a man inthe charismatic movement and was making great strides. In an effort to help him, his fellow-charismatics promised to prove mewrong by performing a miracle. I volunteered one of our members,a man born blind. They really believed they could do it. I still cannot understand how they could remain in their error after theircomplete failure that day. Steve, though, was more honest andbroke with them completely after that. He now has his sights seton becoming a faithful gospel preacher.

WARNING RODNEY MILLER, 15 Par St., Orlando, Florida—A 45-50 yearold man, medium height, about 150 pounds with graying hair in acrew-cut is making the rounds of central Florida churches inJanuary begging funds to get back to his home in Pasadena, California. He lists as his home address: 2535 Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, California. He presented himself as DON HILL, a Christian, out of duty since his wife and child were killed in an auto accident in 1968. He was supposed to be a member of theBellaire church in Houston, Texas and uses Don Willis as a reference. He is extremely knowledgeable about the church and theissues of liberalism and conservatism. He seems to understand well the orphan home arguments and the weaknesses of brethrenwho support them out of the church treasury. He collected funds from Christians at several congregations by sincerely telling theabove story to each and indicating they were the only ones in the area he had visited and asked for money. He drives a gray-greenfour-door Chrysler, 1972 model with California tags.

NEW PAPER TO FEATURE FIRST PRINCIPLES JOHN McCORT, 637 E. Washington St., Greencastle, Indiana46135—Harry Lewis and I, Along with several other preachershave started a 16 page monthly paper entitled "FIRST CENTURY CHRISTIAN". It will be professionally typeset and will deal solely with the first principles of Christianity. The singlesubscription price will be $5 per year with reduced rates for clubsand bundles to churches. [EDITOR'S NOTE: We have seen the first issue of this paper andit really looks good. The material is good and it is well laid outand printed. We wish these brethren well with this paper.]

NEW CONGREGATION IN MT. VERNON, INDIANA QUENTIN GWIN, Box 291, Mt. Vernon, IN 47620—For several years seven families have been driving from Mt. Vernon to Evansville for services. The work in Evansville is going well andthose in Mt. Vernon felt they would be more effective in the Lord's work by starting a congregation here. The congregationwill be known as the Southwind Church of Christ and meets at 110 West Third St. in Mt. Vernon. We first met as a congregationon January 6, 1980 with 18 present. We have unusual hours on Sunday AM so as to have Gene Taylor of Evansville deliver asermon prior to the Bible Study meeting time at Northwest in Evansville. Gene also meets with us on Tuesday evenings for ourmid-week service. On Lord's days we meet for worship at 8:15 AM with Bible study at 9:15. The evening service is at 6 PM, We meet on Tuesdays at 7 PM. The men of the congregation are delivering the Sunday evening lessons. We would be pleased ifyou will tell any that you know are going to be in the area aboutour new work.

BOB DOBSON, 520 Mary Esther Cut-Off, Fort Walton Beach,Florida 32548—We recently concluded a gospel meeting with JackKirby of Las Cruces, New Mexico presenting a special series called "Truth Vs. Error." As a skilled carpenter, brother Kirby showed from the New Testament glory and majesty of the Lord's church, and then exposed forcefully the errors of the doctrines ofmen and their churches. We had a number attend from various denominational groups. We recommend highly brother Kirby andhis series of lessons as a tool to reach denominational people.Gospel meetings are very much alive and healthy when plannedpurposefully and carried out with enthusiasm and dedication.

PREACHERS NEEDED SIMPSONVILLE, KENTUCKY—The church in Simpsonville would like to find a full time gospel preacher.Simpsonville is located 20 miles east of Louisville in a fastgrowing area. The congregation of about 45 prefers a manover 30. Most support can be provided locally. If interested contact Bill R. King, Rt. 3, Box 2, Aqua Shores, Shelbyville, KY 40065 or call 502-633-1599. OCEAN SPRINGS, MISSISSIPPI—A small but enthusiastic congregation in a much needed area would like to locate afull time preacher. Ocean Springs is located 20 miles fromboth the Gulfport and Pascagoula congregations. We have our own building and much potential here. Contact Leo Hastings, Hwy. 90E, Ocean Springs, MS 39564. Phone 601875-5432. GRADY, ARKANSAS—The church in Grady needs a full time gospel preacher. Attendance runs in the 60's. We are self-supporting and can also furnish a three bedroom housefor the preacher and family. If interested please write to:Church of Christ. P.O. Box 345, Grady. Arkansas 71644.

DEBATE

Nathan Haygood of Waverly, Tennessee will meet Jack Rudd,March 24-25, 27-28, in a debate on the sponsoring churcharrangement and benevolent homes question. March 24-25 will bein the building at Eastside church in Waverly, Tennessee with thesessions on March 27-28 in the building of the Tennessee CityChurch. Sessions will begin at 7:30 each night. For further information you may call Nathan Haygood at 615-296-4657 or 2967193.

IN THE NEWS THIS MONTH

BAPTISMS 242

RESTORATIONS 141

(Taken from bulletins and papers received by the editor)