"EVOLUTION AND BIRDS OF PARADISE"

James L. Denison

The birds of Paradise are said to possess the most beautiful and var ied plumage of all living birds. Itwas this very fact which almost caused their extinction. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries their plumage was a very popular adornment for the hat of Western civilization. As a result thousands upon thousands were slaughtered. Fearing extinction of the entire species, var ious gover nments passed laws to protect them.

There is an interesting story told in the American Encyclopedia as to how the birds of Paradise gottheir name. Western civilization first learned of these beautiful birds when the rajah of Batjan presented, at the island of Tidore, three skins to Juan Sebastian del Cano, Magellan's successor on the first voyage to circumnavigate the globe. When these skins first arrived in Europe, the native practice of removing the feet when preparing the skins gave rise to the theory that the birds had no feet. This theory in turn gave rise to other theories. They concluded that if the birds had no feet, then they must live entirely on the wing; that the female laid her eggs on the male's back, where they were incubated and hatched in flight; and that the true home andorigin of the birds was in paradise! Hence, thname, birds of paradise!

"Preposterous," you say, "That people would create such theories." I disagree.

Their theory is no more incredible than the theoryof evolution. Evolution says that over 636,000 species of life — some of these highly complex and verycomplicated — originated from the one cell organism. This one cell organism, itself, was brought tolife from totally dead matter through being acteupon by some unknown natural force, according tevolution. Thus they have theorized, in spite of thefact that there are admittedly twenty or more unbr idged chasms in their chain of evolution. Whatproof do they have that their theory is true? None,that will stand under critical investigation. But look at the proof the European had. Didn't he have the skins of the birds themselves ? Yet, they had no feet!

I am also reminded of the "Java Man" found byMr. Eugene Dubois. Actually this "find" consisted of only an ape-like skull cap, several ape-like teeth, and a man-like thigh bone. Also of the "Piltdown Man" discovered by Smith Woodward. This "find" consisted of only a human brain case, some humanteeth, and an ape-like lower jaw. Because that ineach case these few incidental fo ils were found in close proximity to each other, it was concluded that they belonged to the same creature. And since ineach "find" there were a few fo ils that were apelike, and a few that were man-like, they concludedthat this was proof that man descended from some ape-like creature.

The Europeans had ALL the skins of the birds except the feet. Yet, their theory was so fantastic that it seems incredible to us that people could stray so far in their reasoning. But the Modernists havetaken a few bones and teeth, which may or may notbelong to the same beings, and built up a theory far more preposterous, which they ask us to accept and thereby reject the teachings of Genesis 1 — man's creation and existence as revealed in the Will of God by his Creator.

If the Europeans of Juan Sebastian del Can's daycould take the skins of three WHOLE birds, exceptthe feet, and yet stray so far from the truth in their theories about these birds, does it not make you wonder how far these Modernists have strayed wittheir theories which they have constructed on far less evidence? In fact, just a few bones and teeth.

"I truly enjoy receiving-Searching The Scriptures, as I get many worthwhile and timely le ons from it." — Reedus M. Baugher, Vanduseer, Mo.

"You are doing an excellent job, and I enjoy thepaper very much." — Olen Holderby, San Pablo,Calif.

"Actually I have appreciated your publicationsince I first became acquainted with it several years ago. It is the finest magazine available. Even those whose operating capital far exceeds yours cannotcompare with Searching The Scriptures. It is not the money that goes into a magazine that makes it great, but the material and you have the greatest source-book — the Bible." — Ralph Joiner, Punta Gorda, Fla.

"I am a member of the Howell Park church of Christ here in Evansville, and enjoy reading your paper very much." — Ire A. Roth, Evansville, Ind.

(Editor's note: The following expressions were taken from a letter written by Richard Gowin ofNew Milford, Conn. It was hand-written and at thebottom he put: "All publication rights reserved bythe author." I will respect his claim to copyrighthonors; however, I will give two or three expressions to indicate the loving spirit of this man who charges that we lack love.

"Wolves in sheep's clothing." "Spouting 'proof texts' like diabolical volcanoes . . ." "who realize not that for every 'proof text' there are two 'proof texts' to counter it. . ." "Your satanical publication and your tooted tapes and books are deliberately designed tospread hate and dissension among the followers of our Lord ..." "For a fancy-pants church buildinhundreds of thousands of dollars . . ." "Love — the word never appears in your filthy rag — that is one word Satan cannot pronounce — nor you." Enough said! .

"I find the paper interesting and provocative and am sure you are accomplishing a great deal of goodin many sections through this medium." — James

W. Adams, Nacogdoches, Texas.

"I do not want to miss a single i ue of SearchingThe Scriptures. I think it is getting better all thetime." — W. L. Foshee, Bowling Green, Ky

"I look forward to the arrival of the papers and read them from cover to cover." — Julia Clark,Miami, Fla.

"I continue to enjoy the good articles in your paper. Keep up the good work." — Ralph Morris,Glasgow, Ky.

"May God bless you all for publishing SearchingThe Scriptures." — Opal L. Smith, Tampa, Fla.

"I enjoy Searching The Scriptures more all thetime. I believe that the paper is improved in appearance and is more valuable in con-tent. Theophilus in the February i ue contains (or presents) a muchneeded le on." — Tom Wheeler, Orlando, Fla

"I enjoy reading your paper very much, and always look forward to the next i ue." — L loydMoyer, Fremont, Calif.

WORLDLY TENDENCIES OF THE DAY NO. 3

In two previous articles we gave attention to several passages from the New Testament that stated the great contrast between the powers of darkness and the kingdom of Christ. The polarity of evil is strong and constant. It takes continual vigilance and great effort to stay in the right way and oppose the evil appeals that lead downward to hell. It takes self denial and strong resistance to the appeal oSatan to keep oneself unspotted from the world.

It is not po ible to be of Christ and of the world at the same time. T his is the impossible position many are trying to occupy today, but the end is always the same: they are swept up in the current of worldly interests and lost. If one is the friend of the world he is the enemy of God. We are not to love the world, neither the things that are in the world. Wemust keep our selves unspotted from the wor ld.

Worldliness is not clearly defined in the minds of many. Some think of it as some definite word ordeed, and never consider the state of the heart inthe matter. Actually, worldliness is that state of mind that is expressed in various activities of life. That deed or word is simply the expression ofworldliness already present in the heart. "For thethat are after the flesh do mind the things of the

flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit" (Rom. 8:5). Because of the gross misunderstanding of what worldliness really involves, many people are about as worldly as they can getwhile being accepted by society in general as being good, religious people. For this reason we need tolearn what causes worldliness among Christians, how it develops and how it may be detected. It is in order to give some space to the causes and the development of worldly minded people in the chur ch before we consider how worldliness is expressed in life.

We understand, of course, that Satan is the original source of all unrighteousness. He uses wiles(Eph. 6:11) and a snare (II Tim. 2:26) to accomplish his defilement of humanity. Satan does not appear with his snare (a trap, allurement to do evil) and wiles (craft, deceit, a cunning device) as is generally pictured to us with horns, an evil face and a fork in his hand. This would appeal to no one of reason. Instead, he appears as a "good" agent of peace, wealth, pleasure and happiness. The scriptures speak thus of Satan's appearance: "And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness ; whose end shall be according to their works" (II Cor. 11:14,15). We can expect Satan to appealthrough the most desirable lusts of mankind. Whatever be our weakness, there we may expect him tolabor to entrap us. We should teach our children that Satan approaches through those things the appear easy and desirable, but which are based upon thelust of the flesh and not the true standard of rightand wrong.

The state of being worldly is everywhere outside of Christ. We could not properly speak of an alien sinner as becoming worldly because he is alr eady in the world and of the world. No matter how good he maybe morally, he is in the powers of darkness — he is of the world — until he is delivered from this state by obedience to the gospel of Christ. Therefore, when we speak of worldliness developing amongpeople, we necessarily confine the subject to those who have been delivered from this present evilworld and are turning back again to this state from which they were delivered. Worldliness develops among those who ar e not worldly; it could not develop among those who ar e alr eady worldly. Werecognize that worldly minded persons can grow worse, and in this sense worldliness can develop tomore serious consequences among people of this earth.

What causes worldliness to develop among thepeople of God? We certainly can not lay the blameto God or His word. We can not charge those whowalk after the Spirit and keep themselves unspottedfrom the world. We must look to conditions amongthe people of God that ar e pr omoted by Satan. T he heart of man is the soil in which the seed of the word of God is planted and grows to righteousness. T his is also the soil in which the evil seed of Satan is planted and grows to unrighteousness. Man'swor ds and deeds ar e the r esult of his thinking. T he heart is the seat of all responsible conduct. The heart is good or evil, depending upon that which is believed and desired. If the heart is under the control of Satan through the lusts of the flesh, the conductwill be directed by the god of this world — Satan. But if the heart is under the control of Christ through his words by the Spirit, the conduct willbe directed by the King — Christ. Now what causes the development of worldliness among the saints?

At least four things 'combine to provide favorable conditions wherein worldliness may develop withinthe church. Commercial preaching is a major cause of worldly attitudes among the people of God. Whenone begins to preach for wealth, praise and power, he will preach what the people want to hear. Many want to hear what will not condemn what they are doing or want to do and will not burden them withtoo many obligations. "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables" (II Tim. 4:3,4). Those who do not want sound doctrine will "heap to themselves" those teachers whowill preach what the people want to hear, and enough money will do the trick. Those who preach the word deserve to be supported; God ordained it (I Cor. 9:14). But to preach anything other than thegospel of Christ for money can produce nothing butworldly minded disciples who are not of the Lord, but of Satan. Failing to preach the word of God completely and without compr omise leads to worldliness.

Another cause of worldliness in addition to commercial preaching is the unqualified eldership. Those men who are not qualified to lead and tend the flock of God, or those who are unwilling to do so, lead tominding the things of the world rather than thethings of God. Instead of overseeing the flock among them and leading in the way of truth, unqualified bishops develop loose and liberal attitudes toward sin and worldly affairs that produce worldliness among many in the chur ch.

The direct outgrowth of commercial preaching and unqualified bishops is another cause of worldliness: unconverted "church members." There are hundr eds who ar e number ed with the saints who have never r eally been per suaded that Chr ist is the Saviour, that the gospel is the only power to leadmen to salvation, and that they ar e sinner s. T hese have been ducked in water without any r eal conviction and r epentance. T hese people still mind thethings of the world and they influence others in thechurch to become worldly minded. Some are so carnal that they can not think in terms of spiritual things. This is a good field for the devil.

A fourth cause of worldliness is the lack of discipline in many congregations. When we have the combination of preachers who are more interested inthe praise of men than the praise of God, unqualified and ungodly overseers, and unconverted "church members" we should expect no discipline at all uponthose who walk in unrighteousness. We must teachpeople the word of the Lord and if they will notwalk in truth, deal with them as the word instructs (II T hess. 3:6; II John 9,10; Rom. 16:17).

There is a definite pattern in the development of worldliness among Christians. The attitude toward authority begins the downward path toward apostasy. Since worldliness is that state of mind that is governed by the god of this world — Satan (II Cor. 4:4), and since the authority of Christ is the power that separates us from this world, any disregard or disrespect for this authority will lead away from Christ and toward the world. Jesus charged thescribes and Pharisees with transgressing the command of God by their traditions (Matt. 15:3). These traditions were called the commandments of man (Matt. 15:9).

The loss of respect for the authority of Christ grows out of the loss of love for truth. Jesus said, "And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold" (Matt. 24:12). The urge to conform to the world grows as love for Christ wanes. "Andbe not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye mayprove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God" (Rom. 12:2). Once this urge to conform to the world becomes strong enough that we try todivide allegiance between Christ and the world, wehave developed worldliness in heart that will show itself in many deeds and words in life. This is what we mean by worldliness, and this is why so manytoday are trying to compromise with the things of this world that leads away from God and destroys the power of preaching in the hearts of many. The final article in this series will deal with the manner in which worldliness is shown in life.

(to be continued)

BOOKS BY J. W. McGARVEY

Commentary On Acts........................................ $ 4.95The Four Fold Gospel ...................................... $ 4.95Sermons By McGarvey...................................... $ 3.00The Eldership ..... _____ ................................... $ 1.95Biblical Criticism............................................... $ 3.50

Order from:

PHILLIPS PUBLICATIONS P. O. Box 17244 Tampa, Florida 33612

BOUND

Bound in beautiful Fabricord covering, navy blue, printed in gold. A companion volume to previously bound volumes of Searching The Scriptures.

$7.50

order from:

PHILLIPS PUBLICATIONS

P O BOX 17244 — TAMPA, FLORIDA 33612

When the peerless apostle Paul was taken as aprisoner to Rome, he traveled most of the distance by ship. As they passed a place called the fair havens, he advised the old centurion not to attempt thevoyage at that time. T he centurion, like many today,paid more attention to the owner of the ship thanhe did a great man like Paul. He attempted to sail the high seas and became involved in great difficulty. A tempestuous wind called "E ur oclydon" ar ose andit seemed that all would be lost. After many daysPaul stood in the midst of them and said, "Sirs, yeshould have hearkened unto me, and not have loosedfrom Crete." However, he assured them that no manwould lose his life if they obeyed his instructions.

This little incident reflects a wonderful lesson for all men today. Many will not pay attention to Pauland other inspired teachers until it is too late. Butgentle friend, the time will come when Paul, as hedid in the long ago, could say, "Ye should have hearkened unto me."

After death all of the false teachers who have taught that baptism is not necessary could be told by Paul, "Ye should have hearkened unto me when I said one gets into Chr ist by baptism" (Gal. 3:26,27). Peter could also say, "Ye should have hearkened unto me when I said that baptism saves" (I Peter 3:21).

All people who procrastinate and do not obey thegospel could be told by Paul, "Ye should have hearkened unto me when I said now is the day of salvation" (II Cor. 6:2), or you should have listened to James when he said, "Life is as a vapor that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away"(James 4:14).

After death, sectarians could be told by Luke, "Ye should have hearkened unto me and observed the Lord's supper every Sunday, instead of quarterly, annually or semi-annually" (Acts 20:7).

After death, false brethren could be told, "Ye should have hearkened unto me and sent money from the church treasuries direct to the evangelist, instead of through so-called sponsoring churches, missionary societies or other boards" (II Cor. 11:8,Phil. 4:15,16). Or they could be told, "Ye should have hearkened unto me and permitted the church to doits own benevolent work as it did in Bible times" (Acts 6:1-5). Ye should have listened and not madedonations from church treasuries to hospitals, orphan asylums and other humanitarian or ganizations separate from the church. James could say, "Yeshould have hearkened unto me and noticed the difference in the work of the church and the individual."

When I said "Pure and undefiled religion was to visit the fatherless and widows," I mentioned the pronouns 'himself,' 'he' and the word 'man' more than once in the text. Ye should have hearkened and known that the church is never spoken of as a 'man' or 'he.' Ye would have listened when brother Paul said, "Let not the CHURCH be charged." This should have taught you that the church can not be charged with many things today (James 1:27, I Tim. 5:16).

Yes, dear friends, when Paul stood in the midst of the ship and said, "Ye should have hearkened untome," it was too late to save the ship. Why nohearken to the voice of the Bible today so that tomorrow, you will not hear the sad words, "Ye shouldhave hearkened unto me."?

THEISTIC EVOLUTION (No. 3)

In the latter part of our last article we said that"Theistic" evolution is impo ible as a compromise between believing in God and His Word while accepting the dogma of evolution, with common descent and ancestry, from amoeba to man. We believe these two positions are incompatible and antagonistic. T his article sets forth two reasons why we believe this is true and reconciliation is impo ible.

1. THE "THEISTIC" EVOLUTIONIST, IF CONSISTENT EVOLUTIONIST, IS AN INFIDELHe does not accept the Divine origin of the Bible;he does not believe it is God's revealed Word and Will to man, given by inspiration. He just does notbelieve what the Bible says on these points at i ue: Origins, First Causes, how the world and life uponit came to be, the origin of the basic groups of plantand animal life AND ESPECIALLY MAN. Huxlesaid, "Evolution, IF CONSISTENTLY ACCEPTED,makes it impossible to believe the Bible.". And more recently, Geo. G. Simpson affirmed "THE WHOLEHEARTED ACCEPTANCE of evolution is INCONSISTENT with the activity of God in the universe." Thus, "T heistic" evolution is dangerous as it is acompromise with and actual surrender to infidelityIts danger lies in its deceptivene . It purports to UNITE science with the Bible when it is actuallyexalting unproven human theories above plain anunequivocal statements of the Bible.

The CRS Quarterly, Jan. 1967, page 10, shows in what way "Theistic" evolution takes a stand inconsistent with some of the fundamental teachings of the Bible: (1) God made a perfect man and woman,by creative act, in one day. The "Theistic" says God created a protein molecule two billion years agwhich eventually EVOLVED into modern man; (2Bible — Man sinned and fell from his perfect estate. The "Theistic" says man evolved upward and higher to greater form and character and NEVER fell; (3)Christ, the Son of God, died to redeem man, thBible declares. The "Theistic" claims man havingnever fallen didn't NEED redemption, so there was no need for Christ. Some years ago Dr. Marion Shutter, a "Theistic" evolutionist, said of the various things in early Genesis, "these are clearly legendary,mythical elements; as picture or symbols, they maybe even beautiful, but as history, they are as far beyond the pale of fact as the fountain of youth or the dreams of Alchemy. For these reasons we cannotaccept the story of Eden and the Fall as history." Shutter does not believe that man was created in the image of God, but "he began low and imperfect and has been slowly but surely gaining in character and in moral power. — Man was not created full-grown in body and mind, with established character, but hecame up through the animal and started on his human career with simply a few instincts inherited from THE ORDERS BELOW AND BEHIND HIM.

"And when man came up from the animals, so far were they from being holy and righteous in character, that it took them ages upon ages to learn thedifference between right and wrong and they thelearned it NOT by direct revelation from on higbut through the experience of their savage life. Theylearned the difference between right and wrongthrough animal pains and pleasur es... T he r ace began unenlightened, unmoral and therefore without moral responsibility. . . The earth has never been cursed; human life has never been blighted. . . There is no place for Christ as the bloody sacrifice, thesubstitute for sinners. . . Jesus is as much the product of the laws and forces in NATURE as Shakespeare or Napoleon. . . THE GOD OF EVOLUTION IS INSIDE OF NAT URE AND NOT OUTSIDE OF IT." So says the "T heistic" evolutionist, in all the above quotes. (GOD AND THE COSMOS, pages 231-232). This is "Theistic" evolution or "Christian evo-lution" which as Stanfield says, "is a logical impo ibility." McGarvey said the same in BIBLICAL CRITICISM,page 178. No matter how men try to qualify omodify evolution, no matter how they try to "dress it up" to make it more attractive, the basic pr inciples of resident forces inherent in matter, natural ancestry and descent and natural climb to self-improvement is always there.

The effort made to eliminate Gen. 1 and 2 or modify its meaning by making it "figurative," etc.does not remove the charge that such an evolutionist is an infidel. THERE ARE 75 PASSAGES IN THE OLD AND NEW TESTAMENT THAT HAVE TO DO WITH THE BEGINNING, CREATION, THEORIGIN OF LIFE AND ITS BASIC OR MAJOR FORMS, INCLUDING MAN, AS DISTINCT ACTS OF CREATION. So these evolutionists must also reject and deny the inspired words of: Jesus Christ (Mark 10:6; Mark 13:19), Paul (Acts 14:15;17:24-29), John (John 1:1-4, 10) or Peter (II Pet. 3:3-5). We cite just a few, but shall discuss others when we write an article on the question "Gen. 1 and 2 _ Literal or Figurative ?" We insist the "Theistic" evolutionist does not believe in the Divine Origin ofthe Bible nor what it says about these things. HE IS AN INFIDEL!

2. THE "THEISTIC" EVOLUTIONIST, IF CONSISTENT EVOLUTIONIST, IS ATHEIST. Nottoo much space is left in this article to develop this as I would desire but suffice us to say the consistent evolutionist accepts the doctrine of UNIFORMITY (OR UNIFORMITARIANISM). This idea was suggested in several definitions given by scientists for "Evolution," as mentioned in our article in April i ue. A very good definition is given in CRS Quarterly, July 1966, page 3, "Evolution is denned as the theory that all forms of life are descended from one or a few ancestors by NATURAL PROCESSES OPERATIVE TODAY . . . life came into existence bypurely natural processes ACCORDING TO THEPRINCIPLES WHICH WE FIND OPERATIVE ON OUR TIME LEVEL." This sets forth Uniformitarianism, proposed by James Hutton and popularized by Charles Lyell. The latter's influence was great upon Darwin and also led many to accept Darwinism. Darwin recognized Lyell as "the head of theUniformitarians." Huxley said of Lyell, "his uniformitarianism postulated evolution as much in theorganic world as in the inorganic and IT WAS THE FUNDAMENTAL BASIS OF EVOLUTION, WITHOUT WHICH THE THEORY OF EVOLUTION CRUMBLES TO PIECES" (Life and Letters, Vol. I,page 252). In PIONEERS OF EVOLUTION, page37, Edward Clodd said, "Evolution knows only oneHERESY— the denial of continuity— another name for uniformity or uniformitarianism." In like manner, Huxley stated, "The whole theory crumbles to pieces if UNIFORMITY and regularity of NAT URAL causation for past ages is denied" (Darwin'sLife and Letters, page 553). One scientist is quotedin Meleau's WHY I BELIEVE IN CREATION NOT EVOLUTION, page 309, "Everything contrary tgeological UNIFORMITY is impo ible, therefore no amount of evidence can ever prove any past conditions which would be contrary to Uniformity." Another (Thornberry in Twilight of Evolution, pag60) declared, "Without it (i.e., Uniformitarianism)there would scarcely be a science of geology." Thus our century has received from Hutton and Lyell aalmost pure heritage of UNIFORMITARIANISM and, as a consequence, is leaving a legacy of anti-scriptural and anti-spiritual HUMANISM, MATERIALISM AND NATURALISM in various forms.

But, briefly, what is Lyell's UNIFORMITY? Simply stated it is that "the present is the key to thepast!"; "all past activities and events are to be explained by present day events and processes"; "all things and all forces continue as they were in thebeginning." (Peter exposed such false reasoninglong ago. II Pet. 3:3-7.) So this dogma says nothinghappened in the past that cannot be explained bpresent day happenings. (This seems odd since moat all will admit evolution, from lower forms and simpler "kinds" [such as classes, orders, families, genera] to higher ones, is NOT taking place today — P.F.). But all things and beings come INTO being(as God ordained and set in motion when "creation" ceased) by NATURAL laws or processes. As Goddecreed, through the "seed" in each, the rose, oak tree, reptile, and MAN ALL after its own "kind" come into being today by NATURAL LAW. Now if Uniformitarianism is true and "all the past is explained by present processes," then ALL THINGS AND ALL LIFE, INCLUDING MAN, ALWAYSCAME INTO BEING BY NATURAL AGENCIES AND PROCESSES. Accept Uniformitarianism andyou must accept this conclusion. But when you do(as many evolutionists say) you do away with thSUPERNATURAL and have no NEED FOR GOD. It may sound harsh and unkind to the religionist, whoaccepts evolution, but IF HE IS A CONSISTENT evolution he is an ATHEIST. The workings and processes of NATURE are all he needs.

(Next month: CRE ATI ON OR EVOLUTION? BOTH ACCEPTED "BY FAITH.")

— Paul Foutz

QUESTION — I would like to see an article from you answer ing the arguments based upon Matt28:18-20 and Acts 11:27-30 which seek to justifythe sponsoring church in evangelism. Please dealwith the argument that says the sponsoring church is only a method in carrying out the Great Commission. — M.J.

ANSWER — I suppose that the two references cited above are the two most popular appeals madefor authority for the "sponsoring church." However, a careful and honest examination of these appealshow that they fail of their objective

Several arguments are made based upon the Great Commi ion. Whether or not the Great Commission is applicable to the church, or to the apostles exclusively, is not so important so far as the real issue is concerned. The New Testament examples andnumerous passages show that the church actedunder, in harmony with, and according to the universal charge of the Great Commi ion. So far as I know, no one denies the universal nature of thechurch's responsibility in evangelism. Furthermore, a careful study of the Great Commi ion shows that it applies indirectly to every Christian. Jesus said,"Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit: teaching themto observe all things whatsoever I commanded youand lo, I am with you always, even unto the end ofthe world." The apostles were commanded "to make disciples." After this they (the apostles) were tteach "them" (disciples) to "observe all things whatsoever I commanded you." Unless making "discipleof all the nations, baptizing them into the name othe Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" is a work peculiar to the apostolic office, it is a part of the "all things . . . commanded," and, therefore,applies to all disciples.

We are told by some that the universal nature of the responsibility imposed in the Great Commi ion is too great for any local congregation, therefore,church cooperation is necessary. The argument then assumes the "sponsoring church" type of cooperation. However, such is no where found in the NewTestament, generically, specifically, or otherwise! Not by command, approved example, nor necessaryinference! Yet, churches did cooperate. They acteconcurrently — individually and independently toward the same goal — namely, converting the world to Christ. This is New Testament church cooperation (Phil. 4:15-18; II Cor. 11:8). It should be remembered that there are two typesof cooperation — joint and concurrent. One is authorized, the other is not. Authority for one is not authority for the other. One portends a multiplicity of evils, the other precludes such. God knew this and authorized only one

Again, we are told that the "sponsoring church" is only a method by which the Great Commi ion is executed. Those who make this argument, perhaps,do not realize that this is the same argument faithful gospel preachers have met several times over in dealing with the missionar y society i ue. E ven whenthis is pointed out, many are quick to list other evils of the mi ionary society. This, however, does not meet this particular point of error — but rather concedes it. All need to know that this particular argument is erroneous — no matter how much else maybe wrong with the missionary society

The local church doing its own work, the missionary society, and/or the sponsoring church are all coordinates. All are organizations which use methods themselves. Any method must necessarily be subordinate to the organization bearing the responsibility under consideration. Another organization cannot be a subordinate — it is a coordinate. Hence,the argument is false! These are cold, hard facts with which the advocate of the "method" argumentcannot deal intelligently and consistently.

Furthermore, the local congregation is the onlchurch organization authorized in the New Testament for preaching the gospel, and it is so limited in its function as to preclude a "sponsoring church." I Pet. 5:2 limits the oversight of elders to "the flock .. . which is among you." Therefore, it follows that any church that oversees even as much as one project for two or more churches is overseeing too muchto be scriptural. The "sponsoring church" does oversee and direct a work for a plurality of churches. It,therefore, is unscriptural. It cannot be justified as a method or expedient, because Paul taught that alexpedients must first be lawful (I Cor. 10:23). Athing cannot be lawful and in violation of law at the same time.

The appeal to Acts 11:27-30 also fails of its objective. We are told that since one church sent to another in benevolence, the same principle justifies one church sending to another church in evangelism.

This, however, overlooks a vital point of difference.

In the former the receiving church was itself an object of charity. It was in distress, unable to meetits own obligation, and this, because of an emergencybrought on by a famine. In using these funds the elders were overseeing and directing a work that was indeed their very own. These funds were administered to those within the receiving church (unless someone wants to affirm a diocesan eldership in this matter). Thus, they were overseeing a work within the scope of their divine "charge." They were not in violation of I Pet. 5:2. This is true of every receivingchurch in the New Testament. The principle is clear and simple: The receiving church was itself an objectof charity; the funds were administered to those who were a part of the "charge allotted" to the elders,hence, their oversight was limited to a work that was indeed their very own

This is not so with the "sponsoring church." The principle is different! The "sponsoring church" receives funds from others for a work that is not any

more theirs than it is anyone else's. If so, will someone please cite the verse that makes one church more responsible than another, above their own resources,in preaching the gospel? Scripture for this is urgently needed! This question strikes at the veryheart of the issue. The "sponsoring church" receives funds and uses them in a work not within but beyondthe "charge allotted" to them. The object for which the funds are received is beyond the receiving church. Most "sponsoring churches" do not need funds because they are objects of charity. They are able tomeet all their own needs. They receive funds for a work to which others are equally related. This makes them different from New Testament churches. It centralizes power and control, destroys the equalityof chur ches, violates the basic principle of Acts 11:27-30, and runs roughshod over the divine limitation of I Pet. 5:2. Remember, brethren, all thclaims for good, even if they could be sustained, willnot justify the evil (unscriptural) arrangement of the "sponsoring church." We must not do evil thatgood may come (Rom. 3:8).

THAT NON-CATHOLICS MAY KNOW

The following quotations are copied from current Roman Catholic publications, with some accompanying observations.

"IF SKULL FITS SKELETON,

ST. PETER'S BODY FOUND"

"If a skull traditionally believed to be that of StPeter can be matched to a headless skeleton found in excavations beneath St. Peter's Basilica, VaticaCity, it will be fairly certain that the bones belonto the Prince of the Apostles.

* * * *

"The skull in question is one preserved, beside thatof St. Paul, in the white marble canopy of the Basilica of St. John Lateran. Ancient tradition says theskull is St. Peter's.

** * *

"Further investigation may come ver y near the proof . . ." (St. Louis Register, October 14, 1955)

It was as far back as 1950, in Pope Pius XII's Christmas message that the Roman Pontiff claimedthat it is "beyond doubt" that the tomb under St. Peter's Basilica is that of Peter himself. However, inthe same 1950 Christmas message, the Pope finallyadmitted: "At the side of the tomb the remains of human bones have been found. It is impo ible, however, to prove with certainty that they belong to the body of the Apostle."

So, here's what we have to date: (1) For centuries,St. Peter's Cathedral has been in Rome ... named after Peter, because TRADITION claims (but cannot prove) that Peter died there. (2) In 1950, thPope asserted that "BEYOND DOUBT" the tombwas Peter's himself. (3) But, in the same utterance,the Pope admitted that is was "IMPOSSIBLE TO PROVE WITH CERTAINTY" that the bones found belonged to Peter. (4) The headlines in the current article copied above, assert that IF the skull fits the skeleton . . . "St. Peter's body found." (5) But, in thebody of the article, the reader is informed that IF the skull fits the skeleton "IT WILL BE FAIRLY CERTAIN" that the bones belong to Pete. (6) A finalstatement predicts that "FURTHER INVESTIGATION MAY COME VERY NEAR THE PROOF" that the bones are those of Peter.

This writer has no doubt whatsoever, but whaCatholic 'scholars' will sometime secure the 'PROOF' without question. In all probability the identifyingevidence will be attached to the bones themselves bythe latest in plastic tape.

"MEXICANS ARE DISPENSED FROM FRIDAY ABSTINENCE"

"Mexico City — A special dispensation has been granted by Pius XII permitting Catholics of Mexico to eat meat on Fridays. It will last for three years. Mexican Catholics will be obliged to abstain only oFridays of Lent, Ash Wednesday, and the Vigils of Assumption and Christmas.

"Permi ion was given at the request of the Mexican Hierarchy because many in the country lack the means to buy fish and must depend heavily on meatto provide an adequate amount of protein in their diet" (St. Louis Register, Oct. 14, 1955)

Paul the apostle, wrote to Timothy: "Now theSpirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils. Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; Forbidding to marry, and commanding tabstain from meats, which God hath created to bereceived with thanksgiving of them which believand know the truth" (I Tim. 4:1-3).

"NEW ARGENTINE LEADER FAVORS CHURCH RIGHTS"

Buenos Aires — President Eduardo Lonardi indicated again he plans to restore to the Church (Roman Catholic) in Argentina its rightful privileges. The new President was asked how he intended to resolve Church-State problems which he inherited from the Peron regime. General Lonardi replied: "I will render to God what is God's and unto Caesar what is Caesar's."

" 'I believe a day will come when it will be pos

sible to arrive at a concordat with the Holy See,'

he said.

"T he provisional government has continued its

policy of reinstating privileges and practices of the

Church (Roman Catholic) which the Peron regime

curtailed. Catholic nuns have been restored to wel

fare institutions. All jailed priests were freed." (St.

Louis Register, Oct. 14, 1955).

We only have one question to ask of Roman Catholic President Lonardi: "When you render unto the'Holy See', with a Concordat, who has been left out? God or Caesar ?"

"CHURCH IS RECOGNIZED IN GUATEMALA CHARTER"

"Guatemala City — Articles granting legal recognition to the Church (Roman Catholic, L.W.M.) are incorporated in the draft of Guatemala's proposed Constitution. President Carlos Castillo Armas was expected to sign the completed draft before he leaves the end of this month on a 14-day visit to the U.S.

"Freedom of education and religious (Catholic. L.W.M.) instruction in State schools will be granted. Religious congregations forced to leave the countryunder the former pro-Communist regime are allowed to return, and the right of priests to devote themselves to pressing social problems is recognized.

"T he National Constituent Assembly has approved a series of articles protecting the rights of workers for inclusion in the new charter. All are based on Catholic social principles" (St. Louis Register, Oct. 14, 1955)

Readers in the United States are reminded that the pressure is increasing, on the part of the Roman Catholic Church, to slur the U. S. Public School System because it has remained free from permitting any sectarian religious instruction to infiltrate intothe classroom.

* * * * In a copyrighted column, entitled 'Strange ButTrue Little-Known Facts for Catholics', the TABLET, a Roman Catholic Newspaper published inBrooklyn, N. Y., informs us .. . that in St. Anastasia's Church. Rome Italy, two relics are preserved . . . one is reputedly the VEIL OF OURLADY and the other is reputedly, ST JOSEPH'S MANTLE The Tablet, Oct. 29, 1955)In the same column for the date of Nov. 5, 1955,the reader is informed that... GENUFLECTION to a BISHOP as an expression of loyalty and homagewas introduced by Emperor Constantine. Also, thereader is told, that. . . GENUFLECTION AS AMARK OF WORSHIP to the HOLY EUCHARIST was instituted in the 11th Centur yThe unabridged dictionary states that GENUFLECTION means "The act of bending the knee as in worshipping." Thus, since the Catholics themselves admit that they are performing an act of WORSHIP when they 'genuflect before the HolEucharist', are they not then also performing an ACT OF WORSHIP TO THE BISHOP OR POPE,when they genuflect before him? T he dictionar yterms genuflection as WORSHIP, in any eventPeter the Apostle would not allow GENUFLECTION!! (Acts 10:25-26).

CLUB RATE SUBSCRIPTIONSFOUR SUBSCRIPTIONS FOR ONLY $10.00SEND THEM TODAY!

THE NEWS LETTER REPORTS

".. .They rehearsed all that God had done with them... " — Acts 14:27

Ken Stamper, Bakersfield, Calif.— This is to inform you that the church that formerly met at 6801 Rosedale Highway has moved to the corner of Rex-land Drive and Garber Way. The schedule of services are as follows: Lord's day, classes — 9:45 a.m.; preaching, 10:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.; Wednesday classes, 7:30 p.m. If you are passing this way andhave the opportunity to meet with us please call one of the following numbers for information and directions: 831-4056; 324-2471; 323-5057. Any correspondence should be addressed to Ken Stamper, 4323 Eve St. or Wayne Hart, 512 Teakwood Drive.

USED CHURCH PEWS

R. B. Rankin, Jr., Portales, N. M. — We have twenty used church pews, 16 foot in length, for sale. Good condition. $25.00 each, with pulpit and communion table to match included in lot sale. Contact

R. B. Rankin at 356-5417, or George Calton, 356-5704, or write University Drive church of Christ, 523 W. University Drive, Portales, New Mexico 88130.

James P. Miller, 2523 West Diana, Tampa, Fla. —The latter part of the month of June found me busy in meetings in Texas and Arkansas. I was with the Haltom City congregation where my son, Rodney, preaches, from June 17 through the 23rd. This is asmall but determined group of faithful disciples who have a bright future. With about 65 members, they are self supporting and growing. Good crowds and fine interest characterized the meeting. There were two additions. The Haltom City Church meets at 6101 Linton Avenue, and Haltom City is a part ofgreater Ft. Worth on the Dallas side. When you are in that section worship with them. You will be glad that you did. . . . Closing the Haltom City meeting on Sunday June 23rd I flew the next morning to Little Rock and started a meeting with the North Sidecongregation in Conway, Arkansas Monday night,June 24. A. W. Goff preaches for the congregation there and the brethren plan a new building before the summer is over. Northside is a strong congregation of about 225 members with good elders and deacons and working in peace for the Lord. . . . The last of May found me in Cleveland, Ohio with the Lorain Avenue church where brother E. A. Dicus has worked so long and so hard through the years. They have a beautiful new building located at 13501 Lorain Avenue. Brethren in Cleveland and surrounding towns would do well to worship with them. T hey have made great progress in the last few years.

Ralph R. Givens, 387 Nobottom Rd., Berea, Ohio 44017 — During May 20-26 I preached in a meeting with the church in Brunswick, Ohio. A man and wife were restored after being out of duty for over ten years. A brother was restored here June 9th having

been unfaithful for several years.

LeGard Smith, Salem, Oregon — The sound congregation in Sweet Home, Oregon is going to beneeding a preacher after I leave the work there the end of June. There are about 40 members, but partial support will be necessary. Anyone interested should contact Louis Sloan, Route 2, Box 425, Sweet Home, Oregon, or phone 367-3827 in Sweet Home. My work has merely been part-time for the past nine months while I have been attending law school inSalem. There is a fine group of Christians in SweetHome, and I would recommend the work there most highly.

D. E. Lively, P.O. Box 657, Ruskin, Fla. 33570 —We would like to get in touch with some preacher who would be interested in moving to Ruskin, Florida by June or mid July. We would like to have anolder man, perhaps retired, who could work with the church here. Please write to me at the above address or call: 645-1855.

PREACHER WANTED

The church in Glendale, Arizona which meets at 6801 N. 60th Avenue is in need of a preacher and would like to hear from anyone interested in this work. Contact the elders at the above address.

M. Fred Stacey, Cincinnati, Ohio — The month of May was great in every way for the Blue Ash congregation of this city. We conducted our second ten day meeting of 1968. Brother Farris J. Smith of Birmingham, Alabama did the preaching. Our attendance was near record for each service. Two were baptized during the meeting and two more have been baptized since the meeting ended.. This is the results of plain Bible preaching and any church desiring good sound Bible preaching would do well to callFarris Smith. We have one more ten day meeting scheduled for August with brother Grover Stevens of Louisville, Kentucky. When in Cincinnati, visit with us at Blue Ash.

Edwin Hayes, Fultondale, Ala. — My next meetings are: Valley Grove in Cullman County, Ala.—June 23 through 30; Mt. Moriah in Mulhenberg County, Ky., Aug. 12 through 22; Colesburg, Tenn., May 27 through June 2; Westend Church in Bowling Green, Ky., October 6-13; Lafayette, New Jersey, inNovember. Meetings so far this year have been in Panama City, Fla. (the Beach congregation) ; North Miami Avenue, Miami, Fla., Auburn, Ky., and Wayne, Mich.

John H. Gerrard, Kokomo, Ind. — Two have recently been baptized at South Courtland Avenue inKokomo. Eugene Britnell will be with us in a meeting July 16th to July 25th.

Ralph Joiner, Punta Gorda, Fla. — I would like to preach in a series of gospel meetings close enough to Punta Gorda that I may return home each night and continue my work with the congregation here. I can go anywhere within a hundred and fifty miles. Anyone interested can contact me at the followingaddress: Route 1, Box 1128, Punta Gorda, Fla. 33950 or call 639,3644.

H. C. Henderson, Jr., P.O. Box 208, Chiefland, Fla.

— The church in Chiefland is in need of a full-time preacher. We are looking for a man who can back his preaching with a "thus saith the Lord," andpreferably a man seasoned with experience. If you are interested in this work please contact Ray Smith or Jerry Smith at Chiefland, Fla., or call 493-4429 or 493-4665.

John Bullock, 13231 Emily Rd., Dallas, Texas 75240 — In the past eleven months we have had 80responses here at St. Augustine Drive. We have baptized 12, 47 have been restored, and 21 have placedmembership. Our meeting begins here July 22 with

A. A. Mclnroe doing the preaching. Brother Mclnroe is well known through these parts, having formerly worked here in Dallas. If you live in driving distance we invite you to attend and bring others. Do notforget the dates: July 22-28.

Donald R. Givens, 1309 Chase, Novato, Calif.— I began my fourth year with this congregation themiddle of June. A few weeks ago a lady who wasformerly an Episcopalian was baptized. Our nextgospel meeting is with brother Otis Moyer (September 22-27). If you have acquaintances at HamiltonAFB, send us their names and addresses and we will be happy to contact them. The church building is located at 807 Grant in Novato. We are 28 miles north of San Francisco on Highway 101 o

ONE YEAR IN AUSTRALIA

A person would have to understand how we felt aswe arrived in Australia in order to appreciate fully the contrasting emotions which now reside in our hearts. A letter had been circulated throughout Australian churches warning them of the coming of"Anti" preachers. This letter, perhaps unintentionally, left the impression with the brethren here that we were opposed to Bible classes and individual containers for the fruit of the vine, among other things. One Australian preacher recently remarked that itwas little wonder that those who warned of our coming would not relate what we really opposed, because such correct representation would have found manyAustralian Christians of like-mind. As we stepped from the boat and passed through customs, we were greeted by brother Roily McDowell of Bundaberg, Queensland, and brother and sister Henderson of Sydney. We verily thought within ourselves that the McDowells and Hendersons were the only people in all of Australia who wanted us to be here — a rather lonely feeling. The local work here is slowly growing and many brethren in Australia are now receptive to us and desirous of our assistance in the preaching of the Gospel. The warning in the letter has actually worked to the furtherance of the Gospel and not to the hindrance of our work.

Shortly after our discussion with the author ofthe warning letter, Bob Harkrider, with whom I am working, wrote an open letter to the Christians in Australia, answering the letter and stating exactlythat to which we are opposed. About a month later, we started publication of a small paper entitled "Doing Truth." Both of these enjoyed good reception from many brethren. At the request of a number ofbrethren in Melbourne, Victoria, Bob and Roily McDowell made a recent trip there. This trip confirmed the conservative attitude on the part of four Australian preachers and other brethren in the Melbourne area. We have also learned of conservative brethren in other places, as they responded to theletter and paper.

For the past nine months, we have been working with the brethren in Armidale, Inverell, Gunnedahand here in Caringbah. At the same time Harold Comer and Roily McDowell have been working with the brethren at Gympie, Rockhampton, Emerald and Bundaberg. We have preached in eleven or twelve meetings this past year, done extensive teaching through different newspapers, done some radio work and taught innumerable home Bible studies. As aresult of this work, at least, eight have been baptized, one has been restored and two have left theassociated church of Christ. We trust that manybrethren have been strengthened through our efforts. In the local work here in Caringbah, there are three prospects who will probably obey the Gospel within a few weeks. We now number ten adult members and our attendance is consistently over seventeen. Bro. Henderson and bro. Thompson, the other two male members, both teach and preach in our absence and are a tremendous help in the work. The church in Bundaberg numbers about 40 members and three of their young men are helping in the preaching there and elsewhere.

At present, there are twelve churches and a number of native, Australian preachers who preach both full-time and part-time with whom we can work. Our second year here will be even busier than the first one. Perhaps, you can now understand that the first impression of isolation is greatly contrasted with the fellowship and happiness we now enjoy — The Lord has abundantly blessed our efforts.

Bro. and sis. Sam Binkley and son are to arrive in Australia sometime in August. There is one other preacher from the States who is making serious plans to come — besides these, we know of no others who are making definite commitments to labor inthis country. Needless to say, there is an immediate and demanding need for good conservative preachers throughout Australia. Australia is not the only place where such a need exists, but I feel that this country offers the greatest potential for work in the saving of souls and the helping of brethren who stand opposed to liberalism in general (for want of a better descriptive phrase).

— Jim R. Everett P.O. Box 159 Miranda,NSW 2228 Australia

HOLY Part Two

The primary meaning of Kodesh is "separation." In part one, references were given to show that Holiness implies the ethical concept of deity. "The substantive always denotes a state and not an action" (Kittel, Theo. Diet, of the N.T., Vol 1 p. 89). The verse of scripture "Be ye holy; for I am holy" (Lev. 11:44; 19:2) also implies this ethical concept of God

The word KODESH is applied to places, persons,times and things in a secondary manner. The implied possession of holiness is der ived from a special relation to God.

As applied to places, God's presence in heaven is a "holy habitation" (Deut. 26:14). Moses was told to take off his shoes "for the place whereon thoustandest is holy ground" (Ex. 3:5). References are made to the "Holy Land" (Zech. 2:12) ; the tabernacle (Ex. 40:9) ; the temple (I Kings 9:3) ; Jerusalem (Isa. 52:1) ; and Zion (Isa. 2:6) as being holy

As applied to persons, the first born (Ex. 13:2) ;the people (Deut. 7:6) ; the Priests (Lev. 21:6) and the Levites (Ex. 29:l-ff) ; a man of God (II Kings 4:9) ; men or angels consecrated to God (Isa. 4:3) andthe Nazarite (Num. 6:5) are all considered holy

As applied to times, the first reference is to the sabbath day. "And God blessed the seventh day" .. . and made it holy (Gen. 2:3). The Sabbath Day waHoly because God "rested on the seventh day." Later,it was set apart as a pledge that God had separated Israel (Ex. 20:8-11; 31:13). The Jubilee year wasalso a holy year (Lev. 25:12)

As applied to things, all the sacrifices (Ex. 28:38;29:33) ceremonial materials (Ex. 30:25); utensils (I Kings 8:4) ; the shrewbread (I. Sam. 21:5) ; thincense (Ex. 30:35-37); and the priestly clothin(Ex. 28:2-4) were all considered holy things.

"Holine , in short, expresses a relation, whichconsists negatively in separation from common use,and positively in. dedication to the service of Jehovah" (Skinner, Hasting's Dict, of the Bible, Vol. II,

p. 395).

JOINING UP WITH THE DENOMINATIONS

One of the signs of apostasy is that of brethrenjoining with the denominations in services, thus,admitting that there is no difference between theLord's church and human denominations. Consider the following article that appeared in the Vineland-Jordan Post, June 22, 1967. This Jordan Ontario Canada newspaper reports:

"Nine Beamsville churches are joining in Centennial service of thanksgiving at 8 o'clock,on Sunday, July 2, at Beamsville District Secondary School Auditorium.

"Centinnial Choir will lead in the singing othe hymns, and also will sing the CentinniaHymn and the anthem, 'The Heavens Are Telling,' by Haydn. Beamsville Citizens' Band willtake part in the service.

"Taking part in the service, planned as part of the Centinnial celebration in Beamsville, are Rev. H. G. Rees, Trinity United Church, RevAllen F. Cook, St. Alban's Anglican Church, Rev.Carl Wagner, Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Mr. Keith Thompson, Church of Christ, Rev. RalpHumphries, First Baptist Church, Rev. George Wilson, St. Andred's Presbyterian Church, RevFred Tiessen, Calvary Church.

"Geoffrey Ellis, president of Great Lakes Christian College will deliver the address. Centinnial Choir will be led by its conductor, Fred

W. Timms, and AF Murray. Timms will be accompanist.

"All citizens of Beamsville and District are urged to keep this date open to attend the service and make it a great demonstration of acommunity religious gathering. It is the first occasion for a great many years when all thechurches of the community have co-operated insuch a service and considerable amount of planning has gone into preparation of the various parts of the program."

Some person may want to know what is wrongwith such activity. The real question should be what is right about it. But note some things that are made clear by this article. (1) A gospel preacher, brotheKeith Thompson, has joined up with all the false teachers in town in a religious service. This is not obeying Eph. 5:11, is it? If this preacher could dothis, why could he not go and preach in a denominational revival with one of these preachers?

(2) Notice that they will have instrumental music in this service. Dear reader, do you believe a gospel preacher can participate in a service such as this with instrumental music? What will brother Thompson do with his old sermon outlines in which he condemned instrumental music in worship? Or is this brother one who never has believed it was sinful to have instrumental music in worship?

(3) Notice that a band is to perform. Could a band perform for a worship service where brother Thompson preaches? If not, what would be unscripturalabout it? (4) Then consider that a choir will sing for this service. Would brother Thompson be willing-for a choir to sing for a worship service where hepreaches? If not, why would he object to it? Wouldhe object on the grounds that such was unscriptural or just because someone might not go along with it (5) Note that this is the first time in several years that such a service was to be conducted in this town. If it proved to be a big success, then no doubt theywould want to have another one next year. Andthese services always get more denominational year by year. The next one will be worse than the previous one. The time will come in Beamsville, if it has not already come, that because of such action people willnot be able to tell the Lord's church, from any humandenomination. As the Lord's people join more andmor e with the denominations, little by little thewill lose their identity as the Lord's church.

Brother J. D. Tant said, "Brethren, we are drifting." Apostasy is upon us. In many places it is hard to tell the difference between the Lord's church and some human denomination. Time will come when it will be even harder to tell the difference. Dear reader, can you see in the church where you worship evidence the church is getting closer to denominations ? If so, make no mistake about who has moved in order to be closer. It is brethren; not denominations.

"GOD FORBID!": NO. 4

It has been pointed out in these discu ions of the expression "God forbid" that the phrase is alwayfound in the writings of Paul as an answer to a question. Further, it has been noted that Paul uses the expression to express his abhorrence of some conclusion that might be erroneously drawn from what he has said.

ROM. 11:11

In Rom 11:11, "God forbid" answers the question,"...have they stumbled that they should fall?"KJV. In the context of Rom. 11:11, Paul has argued the divine rejection of national Israel. This rejection followed Israel's rejection of Jesus as the Messiah. Paul adds the fact that the fall of Israel was not a mere isolated circumstance, nor was their condemnation simply an arbitrary act of God. To the contrary,the fall of Israel was the means through which thGentiles were allowed to hear and obey the Gospelof Christ.

I COR. 6:15

In I Cor. 6:15, "God forbid" answers the question,". . . shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot?" KJV. In numerous passages, Paul teaches that Chr istians have been given "freedom," Gal. 5:1; II Cor. 3:17,etc. It is apparent from other passages that some Christians reasoned that their "liberty" was license to sin, Rom. 6:1, etc. Some might have supposed that they could consort with harlots. In anticipation othis Paul registers the strong disclaimer, "God forbid!"

GAL. 2:17

In Gal. 2:17, "God forbid" answers the question,"But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, weourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin ?" KJV.

In all generations, people have judged Christ and Chr istianity on the basis of the lives of Chr istians. To be sure, Christians ought to be proper examples. But the fact of the matter is that Christians sometimes do not live exemplary lives. It is erroneous,however, to suppose that Christ approves of misconduct. Christ is not "the minister of sin."

GAL. 3:21

In Gal. 3:21, "God forbid" answers the question,"Is the law then against the promises of God ?" KJV. In Gal. 3:17 Paul had stated that the law was given430 years after the covenant with Abraham. SomeJews might have concluded that the law, being a later arrangement, altered or annulled the covenant thatGod had made with Abraham. Further, some mighhave concluded that Paul was presenting the law as a contradiction of the Abrahamic covenant. To the contrary, Paul shows that the law fulfilled a particular purpose, Gal. 3:19, 24, 25.

SALVATION REQUIRESWATCHFULNESS!

William C. Sexton, St. Joseph, Mo.

Recently while in the Cornhusker State, I visited the Capital building, in Lincoln. As I approached the North entrance, my eyes focused on an inscription over the door. As I read, I was deeply impressed with the message. It reads: "The Salvation of the State is Watchfulness in the Citizens."

I thought, "How True!" "Certainly," the words passed through my mind quickly, "each citizen needs to be watchful." "This is true," I reasoned, "because there are so many forces working to destroy the freedom of every citizen." Since that day I havethought of that inscription many times, and I believe that it has a message that is important; amessage that needs to be impressed upon each citizen. Only by each citizen doing his job, can the whole survive. To the extent some neglect their duty, tthat extent the freedom of all is in danger; to theextent that each performs in this respect, is the security of all maintained.

In view of the many happenings of our day in our nation and throughout the world, these words seem to be most apropro. Perhaps these words need to be placed in conspicuous places for all to ready. The message needs to be seen, conceived, and actuatedPerhaps the instructions to the Israelites with regard to conveying the message could be meaningful today. (Cf. Deut. 6:6-9.

Immediately, my mind a ociated a similar case

— that of the citizens of God's kingdom, members of His church. How necessary it is for each member of the church to WATCH. The command is given number of times to every Christian. Paul impresses the idea on the elders at Ephesus (Acts 20:28-30),Hebrews writer to all (Heb. 3:12-13). Jesus i ued the message to His apostles shortly before He left them (Matt. 24:4)

Perhaps the inscription made such an impact onme due to what has just happened to me; I was conditioned for it. The night before I had preached onsome DANGERS FACING GOD'S PEOPLE. One brother had stayed around after service for a while to discuss the things I had said. He indicated thathe too, saw dangers associated with some things being done. However, he was not satisfied with our effort; he was opposed to making these things known under the circumstances we had. You see, that was a small group meeting in the basement of a brother's house. A large church building, where some of these brethren had met in the past, was not being used that night. The brethren in charge were not interested in coming and studying these things. Thepreacher had been asked to discuss these matters earlier and had refused. The building was not available to us, we used what was available.

Another brother, I understand, had been upset and stated, to another not to me, that he didn't think that I should have been speaking on these things "that divide." Some have the idea, I am afraid, that you should never say anything that gets someone excited. To indicate that something is "wrong," in the "Church of Christ" to their way of thinking, is to commit a crime unforgivable. Yet the need tWATCH shouldn't be hard for anyone to detect:reflecting, one can see that watchfulness is necessary in almost every realm of life. In the business world, one must keep his eyes open to trends, etc.;a doctor must watch for new medicine as well as diseases; a lawyer must watch for rulings handed down — in short the successful man, watches. God has set forth many specific things for which weshould watch. May we suggest a few

1. WATCH — "Take heed" — THAT NO MAN DECEIVE YOU. Jesus gave this command (Matt. 24:4), shortly before He left this earth. Examples to illustrate the need are many: Many a person has been deceived by others — been caused to think that they were acting according to God's will when in fact they were violating His law. In our day, many are following men instead of God; they have been sold a bill of goods. This is happening in the "Church of Christ" too. If they would take the Lord's advise they could rescue themselves from their destroyers. When a man fails to "abide" in the doctrine of Christ,he is without God. The same can happen to any of us, thus the need to be on guard.

2. WATCH — TO SEE THAT YOU ARE STANDING FAST IN "THE FAITH" (I Cor. 16:13). The faith being the doctrine which was delivered by the apostles, inspired men of God — in short the New Testament. (Cf. Jude 3, II Pet. 1:20-21, II Tim. 3: 16-17, I Cor. 2:1-13.) This doctrine is the instrument by which man has planted in him the "Seed" that produces the New Birth; this is the "incorruptible",which lives and abides for ever (I Pet. 1:23). Havingcome forth as a "newborn" babe, he MUST grow and become grounded — firmly established; he is required to "STAND FAST." Therefore, it behoves everyone of us to EXAMINE SELF often to see that we are doing that. If we become angry when challenged to consider something as being wrong, is our heart as it should be ?
1. WATCH — "Take heed" — LEST YOU BE OVER CONFIDENT (I Cor. 10:12). The apostle shows the need to beware of the danger of falling.If there is no SENSE of danger, then of course one will waste no time and energy to avoid such. There is always the danger of being so concerned about the other fellow, and usually to find fault to injure rather than help, that one overlooks self-examination. If we think we stand ... be careful, there is the po ibility of falling. The consequences are so great,if we go beyond the period of grace without beingcorrected — an eternity of suffering! Man is weak and needs to be mindful of this, thus let us be appreciative of those persons who will discharge that unpleasant duty of rebuking us.
4. WATCH — LEST YOU BE "LED AWAY,"EVEN AFTER YOU KNOW (II Pet. 3:17). Knowledge of what is r ight is essential to obedience, yetis no guarantee that one will succeed — obedience MUST be carried out. Many have been persuaded by a powerful personality to do that which he KNOWS is wrong. Therefore, Peter admonishes — "seeing yeknow . . . beware lest ye . . ." In 'our day with all theADVERTISEMENT, tricks of propaganda, etc., many are sold something they neither need nor want. Religion is no exception. How about our sales resistance? Can we be led to "... broken cisterns, thatcan hold no water" (Jer. 2:13) instead of the FOUNTAIN OF LIVING WATER?
2. WATCH — LEST YOU BE UNPREPARED (Matt. 24:42-51). Each is tempted to feel that he has several more days to get ready. With that in mind,we may wait till tomorrow to do that which we should DO TODAY. We have no promise of tomorrow: "To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts ..."(Heb. 3:15). Let us be ready at all times. This requires watchfulne . Are you mad that I challengeyou to WATCH? I believe that your SOUL is worth the chance. I hope that we are still friends, and thatyou'll illustrate that you love me — by pointing out my wrongs so that I can correct them.

PLEASE CHECK YOUR EXPIRATION DATE AND SEND YOUR RENEWAL TODAY

MOSBY-TOTTY DEBATE

"THE LIVING VOICE"

Ronald Mosby & W. L. Totty

Pre-recorded

Frankfort, Kentucky

December 12 -16, 1966

TAPES

of

FIRST TWO NIGHTS: Church responsibility in benevolence to those not saints. LAST TWO NIGHTS: Church support of

DEBATES LECTURES SERMONS

orphan institutions.Your permanent record of the actual voices of men from

FOUR REELS — $16.00

the past as they fought the battles for truth and deliveredvital lectures on living themes. The rare moments of historywill come to life again as you listen to the actual voices ofsome now dead and some still living. Build your own tape

DODGE-WILSON DEBATE

library for use now and in the years to come.

Charles C. Dodge & John W. Wilson

Highest quality recording on l l/2 mil polyester base

(Debate with Jehovah's Witnesses)

tape, weather resistant, recorded on both sides at 3 3/4

i.p.s. on 7" reel, and can be played on any recorder using

Payette, Idaho Januar y

a 7" reel. 5" reels available at 1 7/8 i.p.s. Every tape fully

30 -February 2, 1967

guaranteed and will be replaced free of charge if defec

tive. Stereo recording available upon request.

FIRST TWO NIGHTS: The Kingdom of God was established in EACH REEL $4.00

1914 A.D. LAST TWO NIGHTS: Man has a soul or spirit

which is immortal.

order from: FOUR REELS — $16.00

PHILLIPS PUBLICATIONS

GARNER-WOODS DEBATE

P O. BOX 17244 — TAMPA, FLORIDA 33612

Dr. Albert Garner & Guy N. WoodsMontgomer y, AlabamaNovember 13 -16, 1967

FOUR NIGHTS

SMITH-WADE DEBATE

FIRST NIGHT: Salvation by faith without water baptism. SECOND

J. T. Smith & Ronnie F. Wade

NIGHT: Baptism for remission of sins. THIRD NIGHT: A child ofGod can apostatize and be lost in hell. FOURTH NIGHT: Instrumental music in worship.

West Chester , Ohio

andDayton, Ohio November

FOUR REELS — $16.00

27 -December 1, 1967

FOUR NIGHTS

BINGHAM-HIGHERS DEBATE

FIRST TWO NIGHTS: A discussion of one cup (container) for thecommunion. LAST TWO NIGHTS: A discussion of classes and

W. Eural Bingham & Alan E. Highers

women teachers.

Corinth, Mi . E ach r eel separ ately — $4.00

November 20 -24, 1967

FOUR NIGHTS

FOUR REELS — $16.00

FIRST TWO NIGHTS: Church support of orphan homes. LAST TWO NIGHTS: Church benevolence to saints only.

FOUR REELS — $16.00

JENKINS-HEINSELMAN DEBATE GRIDER-McGAGHREN DEBATE

Ferrell Jenkins & Bill Heinselman

A. C. Grider & H. C. McCaghren

Akr on, Ohio Longview, Texas

December 4 -8, 1967 October 17 -20, 1966

FOUR NIGHTS

FIRST TWO NIGHTS: A discussion of church support of orphan institutions.

FOUR NIGHTS

FIRST TWO NIGHTS: One church sending money to another church LAST TWO NIGHTS: A discussion of churches supporting theto preach the gospel as in Herald of Truth. LAST TWO

Herald of Truth.NIGHTS: Church support of orphan institutions.

FOUR REELS — $16.00

FOUR REELS — $16.00