SALVATION AT THE POINT OF FAITH

Albert Garner, a Baptist preacher, authored a little booklet entitled, A Few Aspirins for Campbellism. In 19741 wrote an article in which I examined one particular point madeby Mil. Garner. I herein give a review of the point made atthat time.

Albert Garner calls the church "Campbellism. " Whetherhe knows it or not, he is more nearly a Campbellite than I. Heuses Alexander Campbell for proof of some positions heholds far more than I would ever dream of doing. AlexanderCampbell was baptized by Mathias Luce, a Baptist preacher,which would make him a Baptist, according to Baptist doctrine. He was associated with a Baptist Association andaccording to Baptist doctrine he could not be lost even if hedid leave and repudiate the Baptist Association.

With particular attention to the doctrine of Garner, thatone is saved at the point of faith, I quote from chapter two,page five of the above mentioned booklet: "When you hearthe charge that there are those who teach that one is savedby "faith only, " you should take special notice. They makesuch claims either through ignorance or dishonesty. Thisyou will find to be true: the fellow who makes such a claimwill cite no representative man of any faith as having ever madesuch a claim. So far as I have been able to find there has never been any recognized minister of ANY RELIGIOUSFAITH OR GROUP who has ever taught that one is saved by 'faith only. '" On page seven Garner says,, "No Baptists orany other group of Christians, to my knowledge, preachesthat one can be saved by 'faith only. ' "

"Ye see how that by works a man is justified, and not by

faith only" (James 2: 24). Albert Garner knows that verse is

in the Bible, and in order to avoid direct conflict with the

verse, he simply changes the wording to say, "atthepointof

faith one is saved. " There is not any real difference between

"faith only" and "at the point of faith" when Garner

explains his position. It would be quite interesting for him

to give a detailed definition of what he means by "at the

point of faith. " Does he mean "before and without any

works"?

But this is not the point of this article. He says that heknows of no "recognized minister of ANY RELIGIOUS FAITH OR GROUP who has ever taught that one is savedby 'faith only. '" Garner is either entirely too uninformed tobe writing on this subject, or he is deliberately trying todeceive and subvert people from the truth.

Let us see if "ANY RELIGIOUS FAITH OR

GROUP" teaches that salvation is by "faith only. "

"Wherefore, that we are justified by faith only is a most wholesome doctrine, and very full of comfort. " (Discipline of The Methodist Church, 1960, The Articles of Religion,Article IX, sec. 69). The Methodists teach it! Did Garnerknow about this? or does he not consider Methodist Christians?

"... that justification includes the pardon of sin, and thepromise ofeternal life on principles of righteousness; thatitis bestowed, not in consideration of any work of righteousness which we have done, but solely through faithin the redeemer's blood... " (McConnell's Manual for Baptist Churches, Declaration of Faith, Article V, page 18). Webster's New Twentieth Century Dictionary defines "solely" as: "alone, only, without another... " The Standard Manual for Baptist Churches by Edward T. Hiscox says the same thing on page 62. Church Manual of Baptist Churchesby J. M. Pendleton says the same thing on page 48.

In order to find out what Baptists believe, one must go tothecreeds of the BaptistChurch. To find out whatMethodistsbelieve, one must go to the Discipline of the Methodist Church. This is true of all human denominations. Garner's claim that no religious faith or group has ever claimed thatone is saved by faith only is shown to be completely false.

In speaking of faith in Christ for salvation, E. Y. Mullins inBaptist Beliefs says, "It is the condition of all God's gifts to us in Jesus Christ. It is the condition of justification and pardon, adoption" can mean nothing but that faith alone is the condition of "justification and pardon, adoption and regeneration. "

The Confession of Faith of The Presbyterian Church, chapter XI, Sec. 2, page 48, "Faith thus receiving and resting on Christ and his righteousness, is the alone instrument of justification... " Thus the Presbyterians believe in justification by faith only. I wonder if Dr. Garner knew thiswhen he wrote his booklet.

Glenn V. Tingley of the Christian Missionary Alliance Churchdebated W. Curtis Porter in Birmingham, Alabama in 1947 and the proposition which Tingley affirmed was, "The scriptures teach that alien sinners are saved by faith alonebefore and without water baptism. "(Porter-Tingley Debate,page 180). In his affirmative speeches, Tingley made almostthe same arguments Garner makes in his effort to prove hisclaim forsalvation "at thepointof faith."

On page 7 of his booklet Garner says, "Next time you hear the

chant of 'faith only' charged against Baptists, (Continued on

Page 4)

3

A TIME TO WATCH

The people of the Lord must always "watch and pray. " Our adversary, the Devil, walks about "seeking whom hemay devour. " He is tireless in his attempts to pervert the rightways of the Lord and ingenious in his methods. He leaves uslittle time to relax between one round of battle and the next. In fact, it is often in those moments when we think a battle isover and the victory decisively won, when we are battle weary and our spirits long for peace and serenity, that Satan does some of his most destructive work. Often, through theavenues of wounded pride, or unrecognized ambition, ourenemy makes his greatest progress.

As I view the passing scene and witness what is takingplace among the people of the Lord, I am thankful for everysign of progress which appears. And I do see many. But Ialso see reason for deep concern in several areas. I speak fornobody but myself. I represent no school of thought norbrotherhood power structure, real or imagined.I amone man,pouring out the genuine concerns of my own heart. Some willappreciate what I have to say and others will not. Frankly, Ihave never thought it necessary for a faithful servant of Godto feel the "pulse of the brethren" on any subject beforespeaking out. Truth is of much greater concern than pollsand popularity. Now, with all that said, I will point out someareas in which there appears to me to be a great need forwatching and praying.

The Feminist movement affects more Christians than some may want to admit. Every time I deal with it, whether inconnection with sermons on the family, or the threat of humanism, I draw fire from career oriented women and sometimes from their husbands. If I am not teaching the truth,then I ought to expect fire. But, it is evident that some of thesisters aspire to realms of activity, even in the church, whichare completely contrary to sound doctrine. I am hearingsome strange sounding things from women (and from somemen) about voting rights in congregational business decisions. There have always been problems from some women who sought to rule by proxy, but they always denied it.Now, the attitude seems to be "What is wrong with it?" Watch!

I am hearing some strange sounds about the nature of man. Calvinism is a serious error. Great care must be exercised when charging any brother with any degree of sympathy withthis false system. Some have used the term carelessly andapplied it to those who would repu

diate every major tenet of the system. But when a brotherpublishes a syllabus to be used in private or public classstudy and says "Man, in his normal, unregenerated state,cannotknow God (1 Cor. 2: 14) nor please (Rom. 8: 8)God"then that strikes at the very heart of the matter of corruptedhuman nature and that is where Calvinism starts. Here is more: "Then in simple terms, what is the plan of salvation? First, theregeneration (palingenesia) of the old, natural man who cannot please God (Rom. 8: 8) nor understand his word (1 Cor.

2: 14). " Did you agree with that? The "old, natural man""cannot please God" "nor understand his word. " Well, if this"natural man" "cannot understand his word" in his natural" state, then something must happen to him to change him sothat he can understand and we are ready then for a direct operation of the spirit upon his heart to equip him to understand. Some need to go back and read such things asTHE GOSPEL PREACHER by Benjamin Franklin and his sermon on "The Adaptation of the Bible to Man" (Vol. 1, page153). His thesis was true then and now when he argued that"the Bible as it is, is adapted to man as he is. " Watch, Brethren!

Some sounds are being heard these days from unexpectedsources which leave the door open for solos, duets and otherspecial singers in congregational worship. According tosome, the only impediment is the motive of entertainment.Well then, if some insisted that such motive was not present,then we could have it. And put it down, it will be done, if thiskind of loose thinking prevails! To argue for a generalpractice based on a passage regulating special circumstanceswhere spiritual gifts were in use in order to teach in an era ofincomplete revelation, which gifts ceased when full revelationcame, is not a valid reason for the contention being made bysome. I am just one, but I am one, and I want to serve notice right here and now that I am set to oppose, with every ounceof strength in me, any movement in that direction. It was justsuch practices as that (together with many other things)which caused my family to leave the Christian Church manyyears ago. I have no intention ofgoing back and plan to resistany efforts to open the door to pervert the faith and practice ofany of my brethren in that direction. Watch!

We are hearing strange rumblings about divorce and remarriage. There have always been some problems in thisarea and brethren have not always agreed. But time andstudy have clarified many things for all of us. We must do everything we can to keep the "lock" in "wedlock. " God made his law strict on purpose. We ought to allow whateverGod allowed in his word and no more. If we are not careful we can spend so much time arguing about "exceptions" to the rule, thatwe forget there is a rule. Watch!

I do not advocate that we become reactionaries with itchytrigger fingers ready to fire every time someone says a thinga little differently than the way we might choose to say it. Wehave tried to follow a course of restraint and moderation in this paper when dealing with highly volatile issues. Most ofour readers have recognized this and many have expressed appreciation for it time and again. But let none mistakethat for

timidity or lack of resolve where grave issues with far

reaching consequences are at stake. The following excerpt

from Foy E. Wallace, Jr. summarizes my own feelings:

"To the Corinthians the apostle said: 'Watch ye, stand fastin the faith,quitye like men,bestrong. " (1 Cor.16: 13.)

"Here is the imagery of battle. The association of war and

the issues of battle vibrate in every word of this

exhortation. It is an appeal to the heart as stirring as the

call of a commander to comrades in a critical period of

battle. The opposing army gathers for battle in the

distance, but the foe is hidden. His movements are

concealed. From what quarter the attack may come is

doubtful. So the commander's voice calls for vigilance —

'watch ye. ' Watch for the hidden foe. But as the

threatening masses form into the grim and ominous lines

of attack, as the columns of the foe advance, in the moment

of suspense before the storm of the conflict begins, the firm

voice of the leaderis heardto exhort — 'stand fast. '

"When the assault has begun, and the opposing linesbend to the shock of battle, like the meeting of angry tides,amid the storm and tumult the familiar voice of the captain is heard again to command — 'quit ye like men' — performlike soldiers worthy of the rank. And finally, when in thecrisis of the imagery, it is the scene of doubtful outcome,when the ebbing and the flowing of the tide of battle isuncertain, we can see in this graphic language, the figure of a dauntless leader, lifting his banner and shouting — 'be strong' —donot waver;hold the line!

"This passage is Paul's graphic picture of surging issuesin the church. Often the foe is hidden. Error is crouched in countless forms concealed. Christ calls for vigilance — 'watch ye. ' But when error has been flushed out of the hiding, and forms into advancing columns against the church, Christ calls for courage — 'stand fast in the faith. ' Then — when the lines are drawn tight, surging issues oftruth and error are locked in the grim struggle for mastery

— Christ calls for valor — 'quit ye like men. ' Perform like a soldier of Christ, worthy of the name. Finally, when the crisishas come in the conflict of the faith, when men are seen toweaken and waver — Christ calls for heroism, the heroismoffaith — 'bestrong'and hold the line!

"The imagery thrills me. If it does not stir you as amember of the church to an earnest contention for the faith, your love for the truth has waxed cold. The famousgeneral who made the stand at the battle of Thermopolae coined the warrior phrase: They shall not pass! Such scenesmust have been present in the mind of Paul when he wrotethis command to the Christian: 'Watch ye, stand fast in thefaith, quit ye like men, be strong. '" (GOD'S PROPHETIC WORD, pps. 54-55).

To change the imagery, do I hear already the sound ofhammers and saws building the props and setting thestage for another departure from the faith? Surely, I mustbe mistaken. I pray that I am mistaken. But, I think I'll just watch a little while longer. Whatabout you,brother?

(Continued from Page 2)

stick this article under their noses; ask them if they canproduce any authoritative evidence that any one believes he can be saved by 'faith only. ' Thus you can help stop themouth of these religious racketeers and promoters of the witch doctor chant that all except their little group aregoing to hell. Use this article and it will soon stop theirlying and seeking followers by peddling the faith only falsehood. "

I knew the "faith only" doctrine was a falsehood, but Inever thought I would hear Garner admit it. Garner, likeall Baptist preachers, needs to study his lesson before herushes into print with these ridiculous misleading and inaccurate charges. It is so obvious that he is either grossly ignorant of what Baptists and other denominations believeand teach, or he is so deliberately dishonest in his statementsthat he will use any extreme to beguile the unlearned. Thetruth of the matter is, Albert Garner knows what the Bibleteaches on this subject and what members of churches ofChrist believe and practice, and he has to use this radicaldishonesty to persuade his own people. He knows the Biblesays we are NOT justified by faith only (James 2: 24), andhe wishes to change his language somewhat to avoid theimpactof this scripture. Let me suggest thatthe reader stick some of this information under the nose of Albert Garner and his cohorts and stop their mouths from these false anddeceiving charges.

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WATS LINE 1-800-626-5348 THE AUTHORITY OF ELDERS

Two members had been approved to serve as elders by thesmall congregation, said approval was given reluctantly bysome. A few well chosen and appropriate remarks were madeby the preacher as the assembly recognized these brethrenas "officially appointed" bishops. On cue, each was asked toaddress the church as to his own aspirations and estimations. The first strode forward, hooked his thumbs inhis belt, rocked back on his heels, and said, "I just want tosay, if there's anyone that thinks we don't have elders now, just let him try to start something!"

Lloyd Nash related that incident to me. I forget whetherhe said he was that preacher or if he was just an innocentobserver.

A lot has been said and written the past few years about the authority of elders. I was in a meeting with a churchrecently in which there were some members (including theelders) who felt the elders practically had carte blanche authority. There were others in this group who questioned theright of elders to even give a couple hundred dollars to afaithful preacher in need without calling a general businessmeeting.

It appears to me that men who would even nominallypossess the qualities of character which are laid down forelders (or deacons) in God's word would be trusted with thatkind of decision-making. It they are not, then there is eithersomething wrong with their lives, or there is something wrong with the thinking of those who would challenge them.

M. Scott Peck, in the book "The Road Less Traveled",expresses what I consider to be a deep and powerful insighton this question of authority. He writes of "the nature of power" (and I paraphrase) that there are two kinds of power. There is political power and there is spiritual power.Political power is the ability to coerce others to do as youwill them to. It is power that comes by virtue of an officialposition, or by wealth. This kind of authority is totallyunrelated to goodness or wisdom. One may be an ignoramus,a weakling, or evil incarnate and wield great power by virtueof office.

Spiritual power resides in the person, not the office. It isunrelated to any capacity to coerce anybody. It is earnedby virtue of wisdom, integrity, and service.

Was it not political power that Satan offered our Lord whenhe tempted Him with "all the kingdoms of the world and the glory of them?" But Christ rejected this

5 kind of authority and spent the next three years earning bylove and service true and lasting power.

The one kind of power does not necessarily contradict the other. One may have spiritual power and also occupypolitical office or have great wealth. But more often he willhave neither.

Jesus now reigns as Lord of lords and King of kings. Butbefore He entered into His present office, He taught hisdisciples the meaning of true power:

"You know that therulers of the Gentiles lord it over them,and those who are great exercise authority over them. Yet itshall not be so among you; but whoever desires to becomegreat among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave —just asthe Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and togive His life a ransom for many. " (Matt. 20: 25-28).

Isn't it rather obvious that it is spiritual power, not political power, that bishopsmust possess.

"This wisdom I have also seen under the sun, and itseemed great to me: There was a little city with few men in it;and a great king came against it, besieged it, and built great snares around it Now there was found in it a poor wise man,and he by his wisdom delivered the city. Yet no one remembered that same poor man. "

"Then I said: Wisdom is better than strength. Nevertheless the poor man's wisdom is despised, and his wordsare not heard. Words of the wise, spoken quietly, should beheard rather than the shout of a ruler of fools... " (Eccl 9: 13-17).

FAITH ON THE ROCKS

When writing to Timothy, Paul said that "some... concerning faithhave made shipwreck" (1 Tim. 1: 19,20). Healso mentioned some who were guilty of over-throwing thefaith of others (2 Tim. 2: 18). Like a ship, our faith is designedto withstand the storms of life, but it will flounder upon therocks.

Paul had been shipwrecked three times, and had spent "anightand aday... in the deep" (2 Cor. 11: 25).I spent one nightin a small boat, stranded on a South Pacific reef in the face of a gathering tropical storm, and it was an unpleasant experience. I'm persuaded that the shipwreck of one's faith would be fraught with even greater consequences.

Many circumstances may surround the shipwreck of our faith,but there isone basic,underlying cause. Since our faith comes byhearing the word of God (Rom. 1: 17; 10: 17), then our faith heads for the rocks when we cease to hear the word of God. It's that simple, and even the devil knows it. I'm surprised that more people don't know it too.

Jesus taught that when the devil succeeds in taking awaythe word from one's heart, it is like seed sown by the wayside(Lk. 8: 12). The devil knows that if he can hide the gospelfrom people, that they will be blind to the truth, and be lost (2Cor.4:3,4).Thedevil has more respectfor the power of God's word than do some preachers. Satan may not like the truth, buthe knowswhat it did to him,andwhat it can do for others.

There have always been efforts to destroy faith in the word ofGod,andweexpect suchefforts fromthe enemiesof the truth.But, there are other disguised attempts to question the credibility of God's word, and will propel our faith toward therocks just as surely as the calculated efforts of an avowedatheist or infidel.

Ihave just readwhere a groupof scholars, by a voteof 16 to10, have decided that the story of the Good Samaritan is true,but the one about the rich man and Lazarus is not authentic. Yet, it seemed to make no difference to these critics that Luke was inspired to write both accounts (Luke 10-16). Thefact is, there are some who refuse to contemplate the reality ofa place called hell, where the disobedient are tormented afterdeath.

Others, under the cloak of theology or "science" (falsely socalled), attempt to disprove the Bible account of creation, thebirth, death, burial and resurrectionof

Christ, and life after death. One article, no doubt with goodintentions, endeavored to provide medical support for the Bibleaccount of Christ's death, as opposed to the claim that he didnot really die, but was only "resuscitated" after a period of semi-consciousness. This report was partially based on a pathological analysis of a shroud that reputedly belonged tothe Lord. The word of God needs no such support based ontradition and relics of questionable authenticity. Too manysuch pronouncements are merely the shallow conclusions of some thesis written to procure a higher degree of human wisdom, or some paper presented by a degreed professor as acondition of continued employment.

But, such efforts as we have mentioned do not concern me nearly as much as those which originate within the body ofChrist, which body is designated as "the pillar and ground ofthe truth" (1 Tim. 3: 15). It is not enough that we be on thewatch for outside attempts to scuttle the ship of faith, butnow we must face the reality that there are those of our owncompany trying to make shipwreck ofour faith.

What other conclusions can we reach, when preachers amongus contend that Jesus came the second time (Heb. 9: 28), atthe destruction of Jerusalem in the year A. D. 70? And, influential teachers in colleges supported and attended by members of the church openly advocate the theory of evolution, and students are pressured into accepting such faith-wrecking doctrines. Others in the same institution have produced a hymnal for churches of Christ which deletes reference to "rural imagery" such as contained in the song "Bringing in the Sheaves. " This idea would eliminate reference to the parable of the sower, the parable of the tares,the vine-yard parables, and the church as a sheepfold. How canwe possibly avoid shipwreck of our faith, when portions of theword from which our faith is gleaned are deleted from oursinging and teaching?

And while we are about it, those preachers who advertisesermons "without any scripture" are bidding God speed to theshipwreck of someone's faith. Faith doesn't come by thesilence of the word, but by the hearing of the word (Rom. 10:17). Others who aid and abet the cause of shipwreck are thosewho espouse the doctrines of Calvinism, or scoff at the idea ofneeding scriptural authority for the things which we do and say (Col. 3: 17). Close behind (or abreast), are their shipmates who deny that there is any divine pattern for the work, worship,organization or missionof the church.

Preachers need to get back to Bible preaching, including rural or "countrified" parables, and contend for the faith which begets faith (Jude 3). Only then can we avoid the rocks which cause shipwreck.

P

Page 7

PROBLEMS OF BREAKERS OFTHE BREAD OF LIFE

Recently, I was on a lecture program with the assigned subject — "Problems of Preachers". This article is principallythat lecture. I think, as others have suggested, that a widerdistribution of this subject matter will be helpful.

It is axiomatic that problems will be faced by all who live hereon this earth. (Job 14: 1; 1 Cor. 10: 13). People in various situations, places, and avocations tend to think their problems are greater than others. This, however, is doubtful. Every avocation in life has it's own peculiar problems. A doctor willhave some problems he would not have if her were not a doctor.The same may be said of a school teacher, lawyer, craftsman,mechanic, manager, laborer, even a preacher. Some problemsare the same in numerous realms. But, there are problems peculiar to, and come because of, preaching the gospel of Christ.These we refer to as problems of preachers or preaching. A knowledge of these and successfully meeting, overcoming, and solving them is the purpose of this study.

The apostle Paul was one of the greatest and most extensive preachers of all time. When he was being opposedand downgraded by false teachers in Corinth, he was forcedinto talking about his authority and activities as an apostle ofChrist, though he felt foolish in doing so. In his writing of these matters he set forth some of the problems (perils ofpreaching). I have emphasized these with capital letters in thefollowing verses.

"Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft: Of theJews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, — PERSECUTION — thrice I suffered shipwreck, a nightand a day I have been in the deep; IN JOURNEYINGSOFTEN, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perilsin the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea,IN PERILS AMONG FALSE BRETHREN; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, IN HUNGER AND THIRST — (FINANCES), in fastingsoften, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that arewithout, that which cometh upon me daily, the CARE OFALL THE CHURCHES (CONCERN). Who is weak, andI am not weak?

Who is offended, and I burnnot?"(2 Cor. 11:23-29).

Problem of Persecution

Anyone who proclaims truth by word or example can expectpersecution from the teachers and practitioners of evil (2 Tim.

3: 12). Jesus warned His disciples, in sending out both theseventy and the twelve, that they would go forth "as sheep inthe midst of wolves" (Matt. 10: 16-18; Lk. 10: 3). He assuredthem that the world would hate them as it did him and would persecute them as it did him (Jno. 15: 18-20). They would makeenemies by speaking truth (Gal. 4:16).

Today, thanks be unto God for the liberty and freedomgranted citizens of our country and others, preachers of theWord are spared the persecution that the apostles and earlysaints had to endure. Noneofus can speakofthe times wehavehad "stripes" laid on us, been beaten with rods, stoned, or evenimprisoned. Preaching the Word does not bring this kind ofpersecution in a free country.

There are, however1, various forms of persecution that must besuffered by the godly. Contending for truth and standing forrighteousness may, and often does, bring on slights, insults,false accusations, discriminations in schools and business, and various other injuries. These must be faced with wisdom, patience, and fervent prayer.

Contenders for truth need to be careful not to deliberately provoke opposition and persecution, as a sign of soundness ontheir part. "And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but begentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves" (2 Tim. 2:24-25).

Problem of"Journeying Often"

Evangelizing the world involves "going". The apostles, prophets, and evangelists of the New Testament journeyed often. The Jerusalem saints, when scattered because of persecution, "went everywhere preaching the word" (Acts 8:4). Most every preacher is found "journeying often", somemore than others; some a greater distance than others, but alloften "go". It is something that brings on numerous problems.

There are the natural hazards of traveling. Paul was often inperils of shipwreck, robbers, etc. Even today traveling aboutexposes one to such hazards as car or plane crashes, disease,robbers, etc. More than a few preachers have lost their liveswhile traveling to or from preaching journeys.

Another threat "in journeyings often" is of a domestic nature.Frequent or prolonged absence from wife and family oftenmakes one susceptible to temptation. The apostlePaul sounded awarning about this when he said to husband and wife "defraud yenot one the other, except it be with consent for a time... thatSatan tempt you not for your incontinency" (1 Cor. 7: 5). Thereare too many cases of wife or husband becoming immoral whileone is away. Not only is there a threat to marriage, but frequentand extended absence is also a threat to proper child upbringing, where a duel responsibility is often left to one.

Some preachers speak of a "a problem" in being frequentlytempted to be immoral because oftheir often travels,placingthem in numerous homes and situations of private contactwith numerous women. I suppose it is possible for a preacher to have temptation placed before him from this standpoint. It happened to Joseph at Potiphar's house in Egypt. However, I think this would be a very rare thing,considering the type people with whom a preacher associatesin his traveling about. During a half century of preaching,involving a great deal of"journeyingsoften", I am not awareof a single instance of "a pass" being made at me, or facingsuch a problem. Maybe I am too naive to recognize such athing, or not as good looking as some preachers, but I just can't believe that this is a problem, unless a preacherallows himself to become too friendly or close to someone,making unguarded remarks of a suggestive nature, smiling orlaughing at an immodest situation or shady joke. Such careless talk or actions may suggest that one would be open to further exploration. I believe preachers who claim to have aproblem of this kind need to examine their own conduct,speech, and demeanor when in the presence of other women.Here may be found the springboard for a problem becomingmore than a potential.

Connected with the problem area of "journeying often" arethe frequent moves characteristic of preachers. Their wivesand children certainly know this to be a problem. Often it isan unnecessary and even foolish problem one that could beavoided. I realize there may be times when a preacher is onlyat a place six months and it is too long. Others may preach ina place twenty years and it not be too long for he is stilleffective and productive. Some brethren, with a "hired hand" rather than "co-worker" concept of preachers, like the denominational practice of moving preachers about every two orthree years. They tell us that "a new broom sweeps clean",so get a new one often. This may be true of a broom, but itis not true of a preacher. That new preacher may be faulty (in character and/or ability) and not nearly as dedicated and effective as the former one. Too, there are some preacherswho are too lazy to continually work up sermons, so whenthey have used up the ones they have, it's moving time.There are many and various reasons for "making a change"and each must be evaluated on the basis of it's own nature and circumstances, but this matter of moving preachers about just for the sake of "change", "shopping about", of "pleasing some brother's whim" is a divisive and moneywasting thing. Besides being expensive, there is the trauma ofuprooting children's school program and personal ties. Truly there are problems in this area, some avoidable, some not;some self induced, some forced upon. The problem is not going to vanish away, but there are things that preachers andbrethren can do to lessen the problems and help in avoidingthem.

What does a church that often changes preachers get? Iflucky, maybe they will get one as good as they had (assuming they are sound in the faith, dedicated, apt toteach, and behave themselves). A brother and friend calledme the other day from another State, seek

ing information about a preacher they were considering. In thecourse of our conversation, the brother said "You know, achurch takesa great chance whenobtaining a newpreacher."I agreed that such is the case with both the church and thepreacher. Frequent changes have within them the seeds ofdivision and discontent (Some will be hurt about the preacherleaving. When trying out others, some will prefer one andsome another, etc. ). I am convinced that problems in thisrealm are often needlessly brought upon themselves by bothpreachers and churches.

TO BE CONTINUED.

Several years ago, I met an old friend, a fellow Christian,whom I had not seen for quite some time. After we had sharedwith each other the usual "How have you been?" and "Howabout the family?" etc., etc. I then asked him how the church was doing where he worshipped. His reply was, "Oh, we're keepin' house for the Lord. " The thing that really got my attention was that he did not say this with tongue incheek, nor was he being facetious. No, he was dead serious!More than that, he was even boasting! To him, any time acongregation is able to conduct their regular Sunday and Wednesday services in peace and harmony, and none of themis an "agitator" or "rocks the boat" by suggesting ways and means togeneratemore interestandzealin the Lord'swork, then what more could one want?

My friend is not alone in this concept of the work of thechurch. Indeed, such an attitude has given rise to all kinds ofproblems which do hinder the very purpose of the Lord's collective from being fulfilled in many places throughout thisgood land. You know, brethren, in spite of literally volumeswhich have been written and the many, many sermons thathave been preached in recent years concerning the divinemission of the church, it is almost unthinkable that there isyet such a host in God's great family who believe that all there is for the church to do is to just meet for Bible study,worship— and then go home!

Frankly, I do believe that a vast segment in the Lord's church today would likely just give up and "quit the church"if they ever came to realize that they were falling so farshort in their duty as members of a local fellowship.

What other conclusion can we reach when we see such a large number who when it comes to their secular employment or business are ever so diligent and even aggressive; but in service to their Great God are timid,tongue-tied, and/or just plain unconcerned? We see on everyhand those who are only nominal church members. Is thereany wonder to you that there are so many capable preachersof the gospel who have given up full-time work in that whichwas always their first love and gone into the secular fieldcompletely?

Would it be too redundant of us just here if we took somespace to refer to the Laodiceans in Rev. 3: 14-19? Read it: "Iknow thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I wouldthou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods,and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: Icounsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest beclothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear;and anoint thine eyes with eye-salve, that thou mayest see.As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. " Is it not just amazing how perfectly thisdescribes so many church members today? To the church inSardis the Lord said: "I know thy works, that thou hast aname that thou livest, and art dead" (Rev. 3: 1). In anothertime, the apostle Paul wrote, "Brethren, be followers togetherof me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for anensample. (For many walk, of whom I have told you often,and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemiesof the cross of Christ: Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things)" (Phil. 3: 17-19). And I don't hesitate tosay that I also have shed many tears over these very matters, brethren.

Tell me, dear reader, what is my duty as an evangelist? Am I being too harsh? Was Paul sarcasticwhen he saidwhathe did in the above passage? Was Jesus being cynical whenHe wrote the church at Laodicea? Was it caustic of Him to say what He did to the church at Sardis? Is it not our dutyto "Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season,reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine"(2 Tim. 4: 2)?

Let me ask you in all candor, dear brother or sister: Areyou really involved in the Lord's work? or, are you just "keepin' house for the Lord"?

Pornography, sexual promiscuity, homosexuality, rape,childabuse,drugs, alcohol, andthe list could goon and on.All of these and more are having a devastating effect on the American family. Such problems, however, are not new. Eachgeneration is faced with its own unusual set of circumstances, its own moral dilemmas.

Raising our children in these "perilous times" is no easytask. The wide eyed optimism of the childless couple soonturns to apprehension and despair. What seemed so easy intheory in reality is a genuine challenge. I am sure that I amnot alone in myapprehension of parenthood. As I look at theworld into which we must bring our children I wonder "Howam I to rear my children to grow up to be responsiblehusbands and wives, mothers and fathers and above all elsefaithful Christians?" I know that I have laid awake nightswondering if I am doing all that I can, wondering if I amrearing my children right, wondering how they will turn out.

I don't consider myself an expert in the field of child rearing, at best I am a struggling father trying to follow God'sword and raise a Godly family in an ungodly society. Assuch I would like to share with you some of my insights,gleaned from prayer, meditation and study regarding our awesome responsibility as parents.

Enemies of the Godly Home

John in his first epistle (I Jn. 2: 15-17) admonishes us to "Love not the world... ". Perhaps, no single problem soprofoundly affects our homes as does MATERIALISM. It is not uncommon for parents to want better for their childrenthan they had growing up. At the same time, however, ifwe take this practice to its logical end then we will havenurtured a generation of men and women who think theworld owes them something. In our effort to provide the verybest for our children we may be depriving them of something very important, the experience of learning what itmeans to do without and earning it.

Giving our children an ALLOWANCE is almost a universal practice, but what is the purpose behind such apractice? What is the allowance for, for being a member ofour family, for being good, just exactly why do we give ourchildren allowances? Let me suggest that if you are simplygiving your child an allowance for being your child then you are doing them a decided injustice. You are teaching themsomething that just is not so. I know of no business that willreward you for simply coming to

work, they as well as you, know that if you are to receive anypay you will have to do more than just show up for work. Yet, we inadvertently teach our children that you can getsomething for nothing, would it not be better to attach to thatweekly stipend some reasonable responsibilities? If the responsibilities are not fulfilled then the stipend is reducedaccordingly? After all, is that not what happens if you miss aday at work? They reduce your salary accordingly. If ourchildren are old enough to merit an "allowance" then they are old enough to begin being taught the meaning of responsibility.

When John in his first epistle enumerated the "love of the world" he wrote of the "lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyeand the pride of life" such qualities as these are readily seenin the entertainment industry in the 80's. You turn on the television and you are assaulted by such shows as "Three's company", "The Love Boat", "Dynasty", "Knots Landing"and the like. Each filled with suggestive cinematography andlanguage. Our childrenaresubtly told thatit's permissible to live together without the benefit of marriage or that it isperfectly acceptable to act and talk in certain ways as longas everyone else is doing it. Much of the material that is presented either on television or in the motion pictures paintsa distorted picture of what "Love" really is. Our children aresubliminally told that gambling, dancing, drinking and drugsare socially acceptable and that to behave otherwise is notsocially acceptable.

Paul wrote in I Cor. 15: 33 of the devastating effects ofimproper companionship. As parents we must keep a constant watch over our children's friends. We must be aware that in many quarters peer pressure to conform is so strong thatour children may be unduly influenced to behave and dress ina manner that is totally unacceptable to the conscientiousparent. Here is where we "pay for our raising" when we musttell our son or daughter that they can no longer associatewith that friend because of the adverse affect they are havingon them.

Another enemy of the Godly home is permissive parenting. The concept of permissive parenting is that "corporal punishment only teaches the child to strike back when something doesn't please him. " Nothing could be fartherfrom the truth. The Bible clearly teaches that discipline isan invaluable tool in dealing with an unruly child (Prov. 22:15). Yet, we must be cautious as we administer discipline tobe sure that it is the proper kind of discipline for the individual and the offense. In disciplining our children wemust keep one thing paramount in our minds, the purpose ofdiscipline is not simply to punish but to instruct and correct.Any discipline that does not meet that criteria is destined tofail. We must remember that our children are not miniature adults and consequently will not respond as you or I might.Children by their very nature are irresponsible and forgetful.Can we in good conscience punish them for being children?Before we administer discipline it is important to ascertainthat our children understand what they are being punishedfor and why. It would be both unjust and terribly cruel topunish a child for something he is incapable of being or doingor for some

thing he did not even know was wrong. How often have westruck out at our children in anger, rather than love, in frustration rather than in an effort to correct.

Still another enemy of the Godly home is divorce. According to Dr. James Dobson over half the children underthe age of 18 today are living in homes where either one orboth of their parents are absent. Over half of the fathers of adivorce, after three years, never see their children again.While I recognize the scriptural provisions for divorce I amnot convinced that where there is infidelity that divorcemust be the natural out-growth. If that husband or wifewere a drunkard or gambler and repented would the spousenot forgive him? Then why not forgive the sin of infidelity?Such circumstances as these lead to yet another enemy of theGodly home, sexual promiscuity.

In writing to the saints at Corinth Paul touches on the responsibilities that a husband and wife sustain toward oneanother. Paul tells them (I Cor. 7: 3-5) that marriage consistsof body ownership and that each one is responsible to theother to fulfill their physical needs. When this is not donethen sexual promiscuity could well be the ultimate outcome.It is difficult enough to rear our children to honor God's lawregarding marriage in a society that revels in immorality,let alone attempting to instill in them values that emanatefrom a high plain when they live in a home where one oftheir parents is involved in a promiscuous relationship.

Dr. James Dobson in his outstanding book "THE STRONG WILLED CHILD" notes that the most formative years of a child's life are between the ages of birth to 3years old. Further, from the time a child enters junior highschool he is entering aphaseofhis life that is mostcritical tohis future well being and it is imperative that he haveproper adult guidance and supervision. This leads us to conclude that another enemy to the Godly home is the working mother. Now let me hasten to add that I am not opposed to mothers working per se, but only to mothersworking during those periods in their children's development that are most critical. I believe that everymother and father needs to reappraise their priorities. Whichis more important? A new car or a spiritually and emotionallysound child? No one said the decision would be easy, but forthe dedicated parent the choice is evident.

Building a Godly Family

In writing to the saints atCorinth Paul outlined in I Cor.

13: 4-8 the character of love. Love is the cornerstone uponwhich a Godly family is built. Everything that occurs in theframework of a home must emanate from love. When this occurs then we will be able to discipline our children,separating the displeasing actions from the personal worthof the child. How many children have had their spiritsquenched and crushed by a father or mother who was notable to separate their child's wrong doing from his personalworth. Such statements at "You idiot, you're always doing stupid things" serves no useful purpose except to send amessage to your child that he is lacking in intellect. Wouldit not have been better to have told the child "Now (name) Idon't

like what you are doing and I will not allow you tocontinue to act this way. "? Thus dealing with the offenserather than the person.

There used to be a saying that went something like this,"The family that prays together stays together. " As antiquated as that may sound there is a great deal of truth init. When a family takes time out of a busy schedule tospend a few moments with God in prayer and in searchingHisword thenthe family willbea closer knit unit.

Parenthood is a mixed blessing and a responsibility notto be taken lightly. May God grant each of us as parentsthe wisdom to rear our children in a way that is acceptable toour Father in Heaven.

The telephone rang; I answered it; mother said, "Your Dadis gone. " Lattie Glover Shewmaker, who was called Gloveror L. G., was born July 7, 1900 in Arkansas. He departedfrom life August 14, 1986 at Long Beach, California,having lived 86 years 1 month and 7 days. He is survivedby his wife, Grace, whom he married at Alton, IllinoisAugust 10, 1929; a son Fred; a daughter, Marcella Bethel; 3brothers, Troy, Otto and Aubrey; 7 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

Dad had limited formal education, but he was well acquainted with the contents of the Bible. Nearly every dayof his adult life he took time to read the word of God. It was a settled matter in his home that before bed time there would be a Bible reading and the offering of prayer.

Dad never was active in politics. One person told me thathe was not interested in education. Nevertheless, he wasthe one who told residents of Stanford, Arkansas, about 45years ago, "If you do not want to send your high schoolstudents to Beach Grove, now is the time to work to get ahigh school here. It can be done while "Doc" Self is theCounty judge. " Stanford High School opened for the fall term in 1941. As long as I can remember, Dad encouragedmy sister and me to obtain a college education. As we grewup, one of his top priorities was to save enough to pay ourcollege tuition. When circumstances required him to moveto obtain work, during a school term, mother, sister and I would be left behind until that school term ended. Others also received his assistance in their efforts to obtain a college education.

I am altogether convinced that L. G. Shewmaker

loved the Lord, the truth, the church and the brethren. He

was a friend to preachers. He enjoyed the preaching of the

pure gospel. He also appreciated those who defended the

truth in honorable debate. He enjoyed telling about various

debates he had attended and the debaters he had heard

explaining how a debater had used a certain passage to

expose some error.

When I was a boy and we lived in Greene County,Arkansas, preachers who came for meetings at Croft College always stayed with us. Dad was not a preacher.Probably the longest speech he ever made to an assemblywas delivered at Delaplane, Arkansas in 1939 or '40. Dad had been asked to "wait on the Lord's table" that Sundaymorning. False doctrine regarding punishment after death was advocated by the preacher in his sermon. After serving the Lord's supper, Dad picked up his Bible andsaid, "There are some things I must say. " Then he beganreading passage after passage from the New Testamentregarding hell and punishment of the wicked. Having finished reading, he said, "These things force me to disagree with that which was taught in the sermon thismorning. " The preacher arose and said, "When brother Shewmaker becomes as old as I am and has studied as longand as hard as I have, he will change his mind. " Immediately Dad responded, "I hope to God I will not livethat long. "

Although Dad was not a preacher, he did baptize two people. Two young ladies requested baptism at CroftCollege on a Sunday morning. There was not a preacherpresent. Dad set out to find a preacher, driving around tothe various meeting houses, but arrived at the appointedplace for the baptisms without a preacher. One of the young ladies asked, "Why can't Glover do it?" Beingunable to give a reason why he could not, he baptizedthem.

Dad was a man of convictions. He could stand on his convictions when no other man stood with him. At one place where he was a member of the church, it appeared thata brother, who had not attended services for an extendedperiod, would be received back into full fellowship withoutmaking any acknowledgment of error nor expressing anyrepentance. Dad took his stand with firm and openopposition to that. The brother had a son who was a gospelpreacher. He consulted his son and was told to repent andmake acknowledgments of his error. He did and Dad welcomed him into the local fellowship.

It was during that same period of his life that Dad put hisjob on the line. As he and his fellow workers were in line toclock out on Saturday evening, their foreman came downthe line saying, "Everybody back tomorrow. " Dad stoppedhim and said that he would not work on Sunday and missworship. The foreman said that if he did not work the nextday, he would not have a job on Monday. After attendingworship on Sunday, Dad went to work Monday morningnot knowing whether or not he still was employed. His timecard was in the rack. He clocked in. Nothing was said abouthim missing work on Sunday until the workers lined up toclock out Saturday evening. Their foreman came down theline saying, "Everybody back tomorrow. " When he saw

Dad, he said, "Every body back tomorrow, except

Glover. "

During the years that I was growing up, Dad was a Bible

class teacher. In later years it seems that he was content to

have those with more formal education teach the classes. In

the last two churches with which he was identified, it was his

responsibility to select those who participated in the

services. He used that position to encourage young men to

take part in the services. He was motivated by his own

experience as a young man to encourage them. He said that

when he grew up, the older men did everything. Then the

day came when all the older men had passed on and

everything fell on the young men's shoulders. They were

untrained and did not know how to carry on. Dad said, "We

just had to do the best we could and there are those who lived

all their lives without ever participating in a public way. "

Zeal for encouraging the development of young men onceled him to ask two service men to assist with the serving ofthe Lord's supper. They consented to help and did. When services ended that morning some one questioned Dadabout the wisdom of using persons "who are not membersof the church. " The two young men had been regularlyattending services and Dad had assumed that even thoughthey had not identified with the local church, they must bemembers back where they came from. That did not dampenDad's zeal for encouraging young men to participate in thepublic services. After that, he just made certain that ayoung man was a member of the church, before asking himto participate.

Dad often seemed gruff. He was not one to waste words.At times his manner caused people to think he was angry.An elder where Dad was a deacon once told me, "Fred, whenI first met your Dad, I thought he had about the sourestdisposition of anyone I ever came across, but, you know, asI came to know him, I began to realize that he has about thedriest sense of humor a man could have. " That is very closeto the fact, but Dad also was tender-hearted, hospitable and generous.

Although I did not realize all that I am about to write at thetime it happened, Dad revealed to me and others his tenderheart one Sunday morning when I was still a small boy. Hestood before the church with tears flowing down his cheeksasking forgivenessforhis involvement in an incident that had resulted in talk against the church by residents of the community. I have never figured out how he could haveavoided that incident, but that is of no consequence. Histears taught me the dignity of tears shed in concern for the cause of Christ.

Dad's hospitality was seen in his keeping preachers whocame for meetings, which was mentioned earlier, but it wentbeyond that. He delighted in having guests. Many times hisdesire to showhospitality moved him to extend an invitation,before learning from mother that really she was unpreparedto receive guests, but would honor his will.

The scope of Dad's generosity probably is unknown to anyone outside of his immediate family. There was never fanfare about it. By American standards he was not exceptionally wealthy. Nevertheless, evenafter he

retired, he and mother supplied gospel preachers and struggling churches in the United States and across the seaswith thousands of dollars in assistance. Neither Dad nor mother have been what could be called "an easy touch. " Theyanswered one request for a contribution, "We feel that whatwe can contribute to the work of the Lord should be given todirectly assist the work of a local church or to directlysupport gospel preaching. "

Dad never seemed to need the praise of men. I believe hewas at peace with himself and our Lord. His trial by life onearth has ended. He will no longer be standing at the door ofthe Spring and Delta meeting house to greet you or help youfind a seat when the crowd is large. "Dad is gone. " Hiseternal destiny is sealed. We have full assurance in hope ofhis eternal welfare.

Lattie Glover Shewmaker's earthly remains were buried August 18, 1986 at Sunnyside Memorial Park in LongBeach, California. Speakers at the memorial service wereFred A. Shewmaker, son; P. S. Bethel, son-in-law and DonWright, local minister at Spring and Delta. Don is a youngman in his first located work. This was his first funeral. Mother viewed it as an opportunity for him to gain experience. Dad would have liked that.

When one thinks of Bible twins he usually thinks first ofJacob and Esau (Gen. 25: 24-26). As far as I know they arethe only twins specifically named in the Bible. This lesson isabout twins. It is not about physical characteristics, butspiritual qualities that are of the same seed. They are notidentical, but like twins, have similar identifying marks.These twins are ENVY and STRIFE.

Recently I heard a preacher refer to these two iniquities as"twin brothers. " This aroused my curiosity and I began astudy of the two words. I have learned that usually strifeensues envy or envy precedes strife. Granted, this is nottrue in every case of reference, but there are some "twin passages" that alarm us of danger.

Definition

ENVY is defined by Vine as,"... the feeling of displeasure produced bywitnessing or hearing of the advantage orprosperity of others; this evil sense alwaysattaches to this word, Matt. 27: 18; Mk. 15: 10;Rom. 1: 29; Gal. 5: 21; Phil. 1: 15; 1 Tim. 6: 4; Tit.

3: 3; 1 Pet. 2: 1..."

Some translations use envy and jealousy interchangeably. Jealousy is used in Acts 13: 45; Rom. 13: 13; 1 Cor. 3: 3; 2 Cor. 12: 20; Jas. 3: 14-16 to distinguish from envy

in that the latter does not want the advantageous to enjoyany of his property. The former desires to enjoy

the same advantages as his peer.

STRIFE is defined as the expression of enmity or

contention. Synonyms here are such words as "contentious, "

1 Cor. 1: 11; "debate" (A. V. ), Rom. 1: 29; "variance, " (A.

V. ), Gal. 5: 20.

From the Greek ERITHIA, "faction" is another properusage of the word. In Heb. 6: 16 of the A. V. a "dispute" isgiven. In 2 Tim. 2: 23 Paul warned Timothy of "fightings" or"quarrels" (NASV) resulting from "foolish and ignorant speculations. "

The Heel

While we see similarities between these two, i. e., envy andstrife, are they really "twins?" The Bible says Esau cameforth first and hanging on to his heel was Jacob his brother.These boys were not identical twins as noted in their descriptions. They were, however, brothers, quite different,yet, nonetheless, twins (Gen. 25: 27-34).

Certainly this is not an intended allegory in these two representing two evils such as envy and strife. I do mention them as a parallel to the words in their close relationship.One"hangson to the heel" oftheother.

The Relationship

As mentioned previously it is not always true that oneprecedes or ensues the other. There are some places, however,that they do and the results are always devastating.

1) PROVERBS 17: 14— "The beginning of strife is like letting outwater, So abandon the quarrel before itbreaks out. " There you have it. Quarreling (envy) as used here and in 2Tim. 2: 23 is the start of divisions and factions. My grandfather did not believe in Bible classes. While Iagree that they are an expedient method of teaching, and are thus scriptural, I also agree with grandpa who said: "Church problems usually start in Bible classes. " Perhaps that was his opinion, but I have seen it come so trueamong brethren. Like twin brothers, envy and strife, aresoon born out of a class where "the beginning was like letting water out. " The "quarrel was not abandoned, " and strife ensued from envy!2) ROMANS 13: 13—Paul speaks of the nearness of salvation, vs. 11, and warns to stay away from "deeds of darkness, " vs. 12. The Christian's behavior is then addressed, vs. 13, and three sets of "twins" are mentioned:

* carousing & drunkenness * sexual promiscuity & sensuality

* JEALOUSY AND STRIFE He concludes the thought by mentioning THE ONE we are to"put on, " Christ Jesus. We are to have no relationships withfleshly lusts. In fact we are to make "no provision, " i. e., donot even allow it to be born into your life. Your brother isJesus, not any of the aforementioned "twins. " This same

problem was prevalent among the Corinthians and Paul writes them saying, "You are still fleshly. For since there is JEALOUSY and STRIFE among you, are you not fleshly, and are you not walking like mere men?"—1 Cor. 3: 3

3) PHILIPPIANS l: 15—Preacher friend, wake up! Hear

Paul's questioning of why certain men preach: "Some to be sure are preaching Christ evenfrom ENVY and STRIFE, but some alsofrom good will, the latter do it out of love...the former... out of selfish ambition... "

Why are you preaching? Is it because you love the Lord and His truth? Is it for glory, popularity and "selfish ambition?" Paul says, "either way Jesus is preached and Iam happy about that. " Are we who are preaching joined toour "twin brother" Jesus in manifesting His characteristicsor are we related to the "twins: " Envy and Strife?

Many preachers have left the impression that their workis hampered by jealousy of other preachers. Brother, neverlose sight of the fact that we are working for the Lord! A "BigPreacher" in the brotherhood may earn, yes, EARN, morenotoriety, but his work is no more or less important than your own. Carefully consider Paul's culmination of this thought in the very next chapter:

"Do nothing from selfishness or empty deceit, butwith humility of mind let each of you regard oneanother as more important than himself; do notmerely look out for your own personal interests,but also for the interests of others. "—Phil. 2: 3-4

Isn't it interesting that he chose these words in the samecontext of 1: 15, i. e., why some preach?

4) 1 TIMOTHY 6: 3-10—In this text we have again the"twin brothers" listed not with the copulative conjunction "and, " but, one following the other in a list of iniquities.Consider verse five:

"... and constant FRICTION between men of depraved mind... " This is the result, FRICTION, of those related to the "brothers" in verse four: "... morbid interest in CONTROVERSIAL questions and DISPUTES about words, out

of which arise ENVY, STRIFE... " In many of "our periodicals" I have read wrangling after wrangling over "controversial questions. " You see, the Bible

acknowledges the fact that there IS ROOM for unsettledquestions. Some, however, think they have to have an answerfor any Bible question that might arise; and they will arguelong and hard over it. While one must stand firm on thetruth, he must also realize that some things do not haveblack and white answers. Squabbling over such issues andwords alienate more sinners, weak brethren (and sometimesstrong ones), than most anything else. Admit it. No one has allthe answers, and arguing out of jealousy and envy bringsno peace, only faction and friction!

Conclusion

James has summed it well:

"But if you have bitter JEALOUSY and STRIFE in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth... For where JEALOUSYand STRIFE exist, there is disorder and every evilthing. "—Jas. 3: 14, 16 (NASV)

ENVY and STRIFE have similar characteristics. They areindeed twin brothers. They are not identical, but they are certainly from the same seed!

I

In the year 1833, the Mormon 'prophet' Joseph Smith announced his "New Translation" of the Bible. Other than a few brief excerpts, this 'translation' was not published until 1867; some twenty-three years after Smith's death.

Smith took great liberties with the King James Version,which served as his source Bible. This was especially true inhis mishandling of the Book of Genesis. Incidentally, itultimately became known among the Reorganized LatterDay Saint people as the "Inspired Version. " But among theUtah Mormons, it is not recognized at either 'inspired' or 'authoritative. '

Genesis Chapter 1 Smith's version has thirty-three verses compared to the KJV's thirty-one verses. The KJV has the personal pronoun "I" only two times in Chapter 1. The Smith version uses "I", fifty-three times. In fact, the expression "And I, God,... " is used by Smith a total of thirty times in this one chapter. This same rather odd expression is used by Smith in a number of his other writings that are accepted as 'inspired' by both the Utah and Missouri Mormons.

Genesis Chapter 2 Smith's version has thirty-one verses,while the KJV has only twenty-five. In this chapter, Smith has God saying: "And I, the Lord God, said unto mine OnlyBegotten, that it was not good that the man should be alone. "

(v. 23). Therefore, Smith has the "Only Begotten" beingspoken to by His Father, before the "Only Begotten" wasborn. Christas"the Word" waswithGodin creation.... but NOT as the "Only Begotten. "

Genesis Chapter 3 In this chapter,Smith expandsupon the"Only Begotten, " by referring to "my beloved Son" in verse

3. Smith has God mentioning His "Only Begotten" three times in this chapter. The KJV has twenty-four verses, while Smith's version has thirty-three.

Genesis Chapter 4 The KJV has twenty-six verses, whileSmith's version has only thirteen. Smith has the "Holy Ghost" falling upon Adam in this chapter. (Verse 9).

Genesis Chapter 5 Smith begins this chapter: "and the Lord God called upon men, by the Holy Ghost, everywhere, and commanded them that they should repent;... " (Verse 1). "And as many as believed in the Son,and repented their sins, should be saved... " (Verse 2). SoSmith has the plan of salvation of the New Testament age,introduced early in Genesis. The most unusual, and totally non-Biblical, insertion by Smith, occurs in this chapter inverses sixteen and thirty five. We copy as follows:

"And Cain said, Truly I am Mahan, the master of

this great secret, that I may murder and get gain.

Wherefore Cain was called Master Mahan; and he

gloried inhis wickedness. " (Verse16).

"For, Lamech having entered into a covenant with

Satan, after the manner of Cain, wherein he became

Master Mahan, master of that great secret which

was administered unto Cain by Satan;... " (Verse

35).

Have you ever encountered such wild and imaginaryexpressions as the above? Think of it! Smith has insertedmaterial in his version that is completely foreign to the Holy Scriptures. Smith has forty-five verses in this chapter, while the KJV has thirty-two.

Genesis Chapter 6 The KJV has twenty-two verses in thischapter, while Smith's version has seventy-one. In verse 6,Smith has the children being taught to read and write apure and undefiled language. He has the people of God dwelling "in a land of promise. " (Verse 15). In verse 53,Smith introduces "be baptized, even in water. " Smith has men asking: "Why is it that men must repent, and bebaptized in water?" (Verse 54). The "Only Begotten, " the"Holy Ghost, " the "Comforter, " and the "Spirit of God";are all mentioned in this chapter.

Genesis Chapter 7 The KJV has twenty-four verses, while Smith's version has eighty-five. "And he gave unto me a commandment, that I should baptize in the name ofthe Father, and of the Son, who is full of grace and truth,and the Holy Ghost which bareth record of the Father andthe Son, " (Verse 13). If this was true, then John the Baptizer would never have been the one to introduce the actof baptism, and thus be termed 'John who baptizes. ' Further, if Smith was right, then the comforter had beengiven centuries before Christ promised Him to His apostles.(John 14: 26; 15: 26; and 16: 13). This chapter also mentions the "Only Begotten", the "Son of Man, " and "Jesus Christ. "

Conclusion

The further one goes into Genesis, the more Smith rambles in his 'version. ' Smith was NOT a 'prophet'; nor did he possess the knowledge of the Scriptures to even intelligently teach them, let alone 'translate' them. Isn't it a shame that so many good people have been hoodwinked and deceived by such false teaching?

Our great adversary, Satan, is the master deceiver of thehuman race. He attempted to thwart God's plan for man's salvation through Christ in the temptation in the wilderness(Mt. 4: 1-11).

Satan will appear at the most opportune time for him and when he is more likely to be successful in leading us awayfrom God's will for us. I suppose our greatest problem indealing with the devil is the different forms he takes manytimes as he appears to us. We tend to have in the back of our minds this sinister looking monster in a red suit carrying a pitchfork and having a pointed tail, etc. Surelywe would always be able to recognize the devil if he lookedlike that. If he does, then none of us mortals have ever seenhim! But brethren and friends, he doesn't! He appears invery appealing garb! Paul said even as an "angel of light" (2Cor. 11: 14). He went on to say that "his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness" (2Cor. 11: 15). Peter depicts a figure of Satan as a "roaringlion" walking about seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter

5: 8). That is something we all would recognize. Don't you suppose what Peter had in mind was the effect of Satan's work rather than how he looks as he goes about his dastardly work? I do.

The Devil In Blue Jeans

Who among us hasn't heard Miss Gibbs sing her popular song, "The Devil In Blue Jeans"? I'm not recommending it as required or even desired listening for thatmatter, but for those who take little thought as to how theydress perhaps you'd do well to listen to Terry's song and thinka little bit. Men can entice women too, you know! Matthew

5: 28 isn't exclusively for men. Neither is 1 Tim. 2: 8-9 exclusively for women! While you're doing your research intothese matters, listen to the one that goes something like this,"heaven help us, baby's got her blue jeans on!", by a popular male singer, Mel McDaniel. The language of theabove mentioned songs aren't so subtle, they spell it out in plain language. If we aren't careful, however, we will soon cease to see anything wrong with a constant diet of suchlyrics into our minds and soon we will be singing rightalong with them.

Recently I was shocked to listen to my son Jason's fifth grade graduating class singing a song with many subtlehumanistic thoughts dispersed in among some greatthoughts and philosophies for living. I recognized in this avery subtle thread of thought which suggests that man depend on himself for direction and motivation for living.The prophet said however in the long

ago, "Oh Lord, I know the way of man is not in himself, it isnot in man that walketh to direct his (own) steps" (Jer. 10:23). This same song I speak of suggested that there was nohero or anyone suitable to look up to so one should learn todepend on self (me). So subtle is this song that even faithful, mature Christians missed its significance. The following are some of the words to this song.

I believe the children are our future. Teach them well and let them lead the way. Show them all the beautythey possess inside. Give them a sense of pride tomake it easier. Let the children's laughter remind us how we used to be.

Everybody's searching for a hero. People need someone to look up to. I never found anyone whofulfilled my needs. A lonely place to be so I learned todepend on me.I decided long ago never to walk in anyone's shadow; if I fail, if I succeed at least I live as I believe. No matter what they take from me they can't take away my dignity.

Because the greatest love of all is happening to me. Ifound the greatest love of all inside of me. The greatest love is easy to achieve. Learning to loveyourself, it is the greatest love around.

I believe the children are our future. Teach them well and let them lead the way. Show them all the beautythey possess inside. Give them a sense of pride tomake it easier. Let the children's laughter remind us how we used to be.

And if by chance that special place that you've been dreaming of leads you to a lonely place, find your strength in love.

This song is as Jason and his 5th grade class learned andsang at graduation at Ballard Elementary School, June,1986 here in Bradenton, FL.

As Christians we should teach our children dignity as wellas self respect and give them confidence not to be merefollowers of their peer group. But we have the book and the perfect example to follow, the Bible and the Son of theliving God. We are to love self, and our neighbor as self,but the greatest love of all was that which Jesus showedin giving himself for us. (John 15: 13 and Matthew 22: 39).

Send all News Items to: Connie W. Adams, P. O.Box 69, Brooks, KY 40109

WRITTEN DISCUSSION

Agreement has been reachedbetweenH. E. Phillipsand Marshall E. Patton for theforthcoming written exchange on one aspect of the divorce and remarriage question. They have both signedthe followingproposition:RESOLVED: The Scriptures teach that the innocent person (free of fornication) whohas been put away without God's or his/her approval and against whom adultery hasbeen committed may remarry. Affirmative M. E. Patton Negative H. E. Phillips

It is our present intention to begin this exchange of three articles from each man with the January issue. It will appear in January, February and March. Noneof the exchange will be started until the editor has in hand all of the articles.Should there be a delay, we will begin with the February issue. More time wasspent than anticipated in working out a proposition that was acceptable to bothmen. Be watching for it.

GAILEN E. EVANS, 2118 Airdale Ave., Ventura, CA 93003—In August,1984 I began working withthe Buenaventurachurchin Ventura, CA.The facilitywe were meeting in was adequate, but the rent was burdensome. As of September1, this year, we have moved to a less expensive facility. We now meet at 10730Henderson Road in the Saticoy area of Ventura. We meet in the Easter Sealsociety building,locatedon the south sideofthe Santa Paula Freeway,mid-waybetween Wells Road and Saticoy Ave. We meet on Sundays at 10 A. M., 11 A. M.and 6 P. M.and on Wed. nights at 7: 30.Phone(805) 647-9837.

DENNIS E. ADAMS, Rt. 5, Box 427, Carlisle, PA 17013—A year has passed since I began working with the Walnut Bottom church. Although eightindividuals left because of our stand for the truth, we pray the year ahead will bemore encouraging. With our efforts inseeking the lost through useof home Biblestudies correspondence courses and newspaper articles, we hope hearts will bereceptive to the gospel. Among the 35 who remain, there are those who have a stronger faith and maturity which will be a key to the growth of the church in thefuture. The church has also been benefited in the past two years by gospel meetings with Wilson Adams, Raymond Harris, Guy Roberson and HubertShowalter. We welcome you to visit with us. We are located approximately 40miles south of Harrisburg,exit 11off ofI-81.

ANDY DIESTEL KAMP, 812 W. Reynolds, Pontiac, IL 61764—On August1st my wife Karen and I moved toPontiac to workwith the church here.Pontiac isa town ofabout 11,000 in the central part of the state, about 60 miles northeast ofPeoria. There are27members with totalattendanceof about45.Support has beenslowin coming and any help would be appreciated.Phone (815)844-5100.

CORRESPONDENCE COURSE FOR PRISON INMATES

Two prison inmates, who are faithful Christians, have recently written a 12 lesson Bible correspondence course especially for prison inmates. This course dealswith the special problems faced by prison inmates who want to follow Christ.

The authors of this course have been collectively incarcerated for more than 8years in prisonsranging from minimumtomaximumsecurity and can relate welltothe special problems of prisoners. The course is expected to be ready for use and inprintby November 15,1986. If you are a prisoninmate(or know someone who is) and would like to takethis course, please write to: Lockland Church of Christ,419 W. Wyoming Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45215.

PLEASE SEND DAVID HURST TO SOUTH AFRICA

PAUL K. WILLIAMS, 18 Fairlie Rd., Eshowe, 3815 South Africa— The David V. Hurst familyof2712Byron Dr., N. W., Roanoke, VA 24019, has madethe wonderful decision to move to Johannesburg, South Africa in June-July where he visited with gospel preachers and several congregations and had a verycareful look at the security situation in the country. The Johannesburg brethrenhad in-depth discussions with him about moving to work withthem atthe Brixtoncongregation and discussed at lengthwithhim the matterof safetyof peopleinthis country.

On returning to the states he discussed his impressions with his wife. She made some telephone calls to preachers'wives in SouthAfrica formore details. Together they decided they can best serve the Lord by coming to this country.David will be working not only with the Brixton congregation in Johannesburg,but with the fourblack churchesin Soweto,theColouredchurch in Eldorado Park, and will domuch preaching in theruralareasofVenda and the Transvaal

The Brixton church helped David decide how much support he will need andtheyare helpinghim with settling-in money andprobably willhelp onhis salary.David is 32 years old. He has a reputation as a faithful, earnest Christian. Heimpressedme with his preaching ability and careful scriptural reasoning. Ithink he is a good man for this work. He does not appear to be an "adventurer" but a man who wantstocome because he lovesthe Lord.

Brethren, support this man. He thinks that churches may be reluctant to helpbecause they think South Africa is blowing up. I was in the United States in August and understand the sensational reports which you are getting on TV. Ibeg you to listentothoseofuswho are here andto brother Hurst who madea carefulinvestigation of the situation. No faithful preacher is planning to leave SouthAfrica because of the "unrest situation. " Nor are we reluctant to advise others to come here to preach. We believe the risks are minimal and the opportunities todo good are great.

Supposechurchestold Paul, theapostle,that itwas not safeforhim to go into Galatia or Macedonia. Suppose they stopped his support because he ran into trouble in Lystra or Ephesus. Imagine that, if you can! Then parallel that with the attitude of churches which are afraid that maybe a preacher might get into physical trouble somewhere and have to leave. Such churches are counting their dollars of greater worth than the souls that can be saved. Suppose a preacher does have to leave after a yearor so.What has been lost? Money has beenspent, buthas it been lost. Not so! It has been invested in souls who have heard the gospel. Brethren, it is an investment which is for heaven. Don't let earthly considerations rob you of the heavenly returns of such an investment.

ARLOS CAPELLI, Buenos Aires, Argentina—I was in a meeting July 19-27 in Barinas, Venezuela in which 3 were baptized and one restored. There are now 30 members here. On July 29 I arrived in Bogota, Columbia. Seven were baptized during this trip to Columbia. I was also invited to speak to two congregations associated with the liberal element in the U. S. At one place 150 people attended. I spoke on Bible Authority, The Silence of God and Congregational Autonomy. This resulted in an 8 hour debate on the autonomy of the local church. Santiago Castro and Nestor Bermudez did good work fighting forthe faith.Back inArgentina at Jose C.Paz church,Gardner Hall from W.Patterson, NY visited August21-24.

PREACHERS NEEDED

BROCKWELL, ARKANSAS—The church here needs a full-time preacherwho can bring support with him. Randall Elrod, who was here for two years,has moved to Catoosa, Oklahoma. Those interested may write to the church inBrockwell, AR 72517 or call Louie Barnes (501)258-7721 or258-3103.

MANY, LOUISIANA—The Toledo Bend church needs a full-time preachereffective immediately. The congregation is young with attendance of 20-25.We are in a new building in a fast growing area of Toledo Bend Lake, west ofMany. Our new building is paid for. We can only supply partial support. Thisarea has a great potential for the teaching of the gospel. Anyone interestedmay call Bob Rushing (318) 256-9396 or write the church at HC 63, Box 538,Many LA 71449. You may also write Andrew Addison at 118 S. 3rd St., Leesville, LA 71446.

SCIOTOVILLE, OHIO—Self-supporting congregation of 50-60 needs a full-time preacher. We supply a house for the preacher. Contact William Lewis

(614) 776-7527 or GordonHagerman 776-2019.

LYNCHBURG , VIRGINIA—The Westside church is seeking a full-timepreacher to work with us. We are small congregation with two families meetingin a home in central Virginia where a congregation is so badly needed Mostsupport will have to be obtained from outside sources. If interested, pleasecall Larry Powell at (804) 237-3445 or write: 1203 Westridge Cir., Lynchburg, VA 24502.

EDITORIAL LEFT-OVERSBAPTIST HOG DAY

I love my work. Preaching thegospelismy first love in life andIget to do alot of that in many different places. An added blessing is getting to meetsome of the finest people on earth. We are all unique. But some of us are "uniquer" than others. I have never known anyone quite like my friend of many years, R. E. Corns, of Gibsonburg, Ohio. Every year he makes it a specialpoint to write and inform me as to when "Baptist Hog Day" will be in WestVirginia. According to a recent notice from him, it was in October this year.Now how many of youknewthat?Don't ask me what "BaptistHog Day" inWest Virginiais. I don't know. Brother Corns has never filled meinon that But he never fails to let me know when it will be. I have come to expect his noticeevery year and he never lets me down. Oh yes, he is a fine Christian and hasmaintained his unusual sense of humor amid serious physical problems datingback several years. He has also done much to help circulate STS in northwestern Ohio. We thank him for that and for keeping us posted on "Baptist Hog Day", whatever thatis.

IN THE NEWS THIS MONTH

BAPTISMS 218

RESTORATIONS 89

(Taken from bulletins and papers received by the editor)