STS Mar 1969

Volume 10 March, 1969 Number 3

SALVATION BY FAITH ONLY?

H. E. Phillips

Dr. Albert Garner is the author of a small booklet entitled: A Few Aspirins For Campbellism, which was distributed dur ing the debate in L akeland,Florida in 1964 between Dr. Garner and brother Ward Hogland of Greenville, Texas. I am amazedthat a man can so pervert the obvious truth as Dr. Garner has done in this booklet. To begin with heither shows his ignorance of the facts or his dishonesty in applying the term "Campbellism" to people who disown it. No honest and enlightenedperson would call another something religiouslywhich he denounces. I could as logically call Dr. Garner a "Smithite" or refer to the system which heholds as "Smithism". Encyclopedia Britannica, Vol3, page 87 tells us that, "... it was not until the time of John Smith or Smyth (d. 1612) that the modern Baptist movement in England broke away from Brownism." If Garner repudiated the term "Baptist" I, for one, would never again call him a Baptist.

In the opening paragraph of chapter II, page 5,he says: "Among the falsehoods usually circulated by Campbellites to dupe their victims and keep them from attending other churches is the falsehood that Baptists and others teach that one is saved by 'faith only.' When you hear the charge that there are those who teach that one is saved by 'faith only,' you should take special notice. They make such claims either through ignorance or dishonesty. This you willfind to be true: the fellow who makes such claim will cite no representative man of any faith as having ever made such a claim. So far as I have been able to find there has never been any recognized minister of ANY RELIGIOUS FAITH OR GROUP who has ever taught that one is saved by 'faith only.' "

We know that James, by the Spirit of God, said,"Ye see then how that by works a man is justified,and not by faith only." (James 2:24). Garner knows that this verse is in the Bible. In order to avoid direct conflict with this verse he just changes the wordingto say, "at the point of faith one is saved." There is [no real difference between "faith only" and "at the point of faith" when Dr. Garner explains his doctrine. But that is not the point of this article. Hesays that he knows of no "recognized minister ofANY RELIGIOUS FAITH OR GROUP who has ever taught that one is saved by 'faith only.' "

E ither Garner is entirely too uninformed to bewriting on this subject, or he is deliberately tryingto deceive people. Would he consider the Methodist Church a "religious faith or group"? Hear this: "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, Art. IX, Sec. 69). Methodists teach it. Did the Baptist Doctor know this ? But that is not all.

"... that Justification includes the pardon of sin,and the promise of eternal life on principles of righteousness ; that it is bestowed, not in consideration of any work of righteousness which we have done, but solely through faith in the Redeemer's blood..." McConnell's Manual For Baptist Churches, Declaration of Faith, Article 5, 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 Churches by J. M. Pendleton says the same thing on page 48.

In speaking of faith in Christ for salvation, E. Y. Mullins in Baptist 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 and regeneration." (page 41). (emphasis mine — HEP)."T he condition" can mean nothing but that faitalone is the condition of "justification and pardon,adoption and regeneration."

The Confession Of Faith Of The PresbyterianChurch, chapter XI. Sec. 2 says: "Faith, thus receiving and resting on Christ and his righteousness,is the alone instrument of justification..." (page48).

Glenn V. Tingley of The Christian Mi ionaryAlliance Church debated W. Curtis Porter in Birmingham, Alabama in 1947 and affirmed: "The Scriptures teach that alien sinners are saved by faith alone before and without water baptism" (Porter-Tingley Debate, page 180). In his affirmative speeches he made almost the same arguments Dr. Garner made with Ward Hogland in Lakeland, andused the same scr iptures as proof

On page 7 of his booklet Albert Garner says: "Next time you hear the chant of 'faith only' charged against Baptists, stick this article under their noses;

Page 2

ask them if they can produce any authoritative evidence that any one believes he can be saved by 'faith only.' Thus you can help stop the mouth of these religious racketeers and promoters of the witch doctor chant that all except their little group are going thell. Use this article and it will soon stop their lyingand seeking followers by peddling the faith onlfalsehood."

Garner, like most Baptist preachers, needs to study his le on before he rushes into print withthese misleading and inaccurate charges. He is either ignorant of what Baptist and other denominations teach, or he is deliberately dishonest in his statements.

The truth of the matter is that he knows the Bible says we are NOT justified by faith only (James 2: 24), and he wishes to change the language a little to avoid this scripture. Perhaps if some of this information were stuck under the nose of Garner, his mouthwould be stopped on these false charges.

We seek to provide as much variety in subjectmatter as is possible through the pages of this journal. For some time I have desired to provide some material on the lands and customs of the peoplein Bible times. There is a great need for study in this field to help us understand many passages in theNew Testament which speak in language involvinthe customs and economic habits of the people of thefirst century

Some months ago I asked Melvin Curry to write a regular column on this subject, and he agreed to do so. Brother Curry is well qualified to write on this subject. He is a sincere student of the Bible and had made a special study in this field.

He was born in Orlando, Florida in 1931. He presently lives at 209 Willowick Avenue, Temple Terrace,Flor ida, with his wife, Shirley, and their fouchildren.

He received his B.S. degree at Florida (Christian)College in 1949; his A.B. degree at Harding Collegein 1957, majoring in Greek and Hebrew; his M.A. degree at Wheaton College in 1963, majoring in

Biblical and advanced Biblical language studies. Heattended Nazarene Theological Seminary and theUniversity of Illinois. He has completed 37 hours in Bible Gr eek and 16 hour s in Hebr ew and Ar amaic.

He is now in his sixth year as teacher of Bible, Greek and Hebrew at Florida College. He has beenpreaching since 1952, in Florida, Missouri, Illinois, Arkansas, and is presently preaching at the Univer sity chur ch in T ampa, Florida.

He served as coordinator for the Foreign Language League on the College Bible Lands Study Tour during the summer of 1967. This was the first group of Americans to reside in the Old City of Jerusalem following the "Six Days War." He plans another visit to the Bible Lands with Ferrell Jenkins and William Wallace in May, 1969.

I am happy to have brother Curry share hisknowledge with us thr ough the pages of this jour nal each month.

"Just a note to let you know how much we enjoySearching The Scriptures." — Joyner W. Adams, Chester, Va.

"Your efforts with Searching The Scriptures iswell received in most sections of the country intowhich I go. I feel that it is right at the top with the very best, in fact, I like it and feel that much, very much good is accomplished by it and your efforts. Your articles have the seasoning sound and reasoning appeal and scriptural basis as the old faithful gospel preacher in years past. This is, to me, whatall of us need. It is not seeking something new — it is seeking the old paths, the good way as r evealed in the Bible and walking therein. Your staff writers are fine. I most sincerely hope that not only you andyour writers continue to sound out the truth withall sincer ity, clarity and conviction but all other s with their ability. T his is the only way to unity inChrist. Teach the truth. This will remove from any honest mind that any group of men started this 'anti' movement and that it will take more than a group of men to change it — It will take truth to change convictions and I mean divine TRUTH." —

S. Leonard Tyler, Huntsville, Ala.

"Let me first say that I enjoy receiving Searching The Scriptures. It's contents are continually profitable to the honest seeker, and are always upbuilding." — W. C. Mosely, Los Angeles, Calif.

"Our whole family reads the magazine and enjoys it so much." — Paul R. Rogers, Opa Locka, Fla."One of the finest papers in print today." — G. A. Bland, Columbus, Go.

"We continue to appreciate the very fine paper you produce each month." — John A. T hurman, Lake City, Fla.

"I enjoy the paper very much. Every issue is filled with excellent material." — Morris D. Norman, Akron, Ohio.

"I appreciate your paper very much as the subject matter has good variety and is very practicable." — F. E. Sewell, Kirkwood, Mo.

BIBLE LANDS AND CUSTOMS

The Bible is the inspired revelation of God's will. In it God's eternal purpose unfolds and finds fulfillment in Jesus who came to save the lost. Thus the primary reason one studies the scriptures is to doGod's will and be saved. The most important question before the Bible student is, What must I do to be saved ?

AN HISTORICAL FRAMEWORK

As one examines the scriptures, however, it becomes evident that God's self-revelation is made known in the context of human histor y. Suddenlyper sons, places, and events from the dar k past come to light. If one compares the Bible with the sacred books of different religions, he is impressed with the fact that these other works are not rooted in history and geogr aphy. In this r espect the Bible is unique.

Bible history relates how God chose the people of Israel and settled them in Palestine, a land predetermined by him as the place where his promises to mankind would come to pass. It records how heprovidentially preserved through the Israelites the lineage of Christ, despite their own unbelief and theopposition of their enemies.

RELEVANT QUESTIONS

Her e many questions ar ise. Who ar e the people of Israel ? Are the Jews really their descendants and the Arabs their kinsmen? Where is Palestine? How does the land of promise look ? Is it as big as T exas ? What about Israel's enemies? How much is known about the Egyptians, Aramaeans, Babylonians, Hittites,Philistines, Assyrians, Persians, Greeks, andRomans? What languages did they speak? Couldthey communicate with one another ? If so, how?

A POSSIBLE DANGER

Soon a person is deluged by questions other than those relating directly to his own salvation. His study now tur ns to language, histor y, geogr aphy, archaeology, and many other interesting fields the knowledge of which enhances his under standing of God's word. Yet herein lies a danger. He may become so pr eoccupied in the study of r elated subjects that he may lose sight of his original objective, and gradually he may digress to a mere academic or humanistic appr oach to Bible study.

REAL VALUE

The value of related but non-biblical subjects,

however, is not minimized by this danger. Ignorance

no more guarantees faith than knowledge destroys

it. One should seek to increase his understanding of

God's word through every available means, and it is

the purpose of this column to contribute toward such

an understanding through the study of Bible lands

and customs.

CONGREGATIONAL COOPERATION

of the

CHURCHES OF CHRIST

WINKLER A well arr anged and documented book of 158 pages dealing with church sponsorships, centralized power and control, orphan homes and Herald of Truth. Diagrams and charts help emphasize the truth.

$ 1.00 per copy order from PHILLIPS PUBLICATIONS

P. O. Box 17244 Tampa, Florida 33612

REVIEWING THE "REVIEW"

"One extreme leads to another." There is much truth in this familiar statement. In an effort to escape from Rome, people often run past Jerusalem and end up at Babel. Luther went from "works only" to "faith only" and both positions were wrong

Leroy Garrett once stood with those who were so conservative that it was difficult for anyone to beright. Within recent years, he has become so liberal that it is difficult for anyone to be wrong

To propagate his views, along with those of Ketcherside, Meyers and a few others, brother Garrettedits a paper called "Restoration Review." It is difficult for me to understand what they seek to restore,but it is not difficult to review some of their writings and show wherein they have erred from the Scriptures and the restoration plea

In the November, 1968 i ue, Garrett wrote anarticle entitled "An Impre ive Concession." Hiscomments centered around the following statement made by Prof. A. T. DeGroot of Texas Christian University

"No group in the religious world other than themselves considers them to be a genuine unitymovement."

I am not surprised that DeGroot doesn't believethe church of Christ to be a true unity movement. Heis not in the church of Christ! I doubt if anyon"other than themselves" considered the first centurychurch a true unity movement — but it was.

Garrett said, "The professor made this evaluation in reference to our claim of being the means of unityfor all churches. We have made it clear that our answer to the problem of division is for all others to become like ourselves in respect to doctrine and practice. We may not always be so blunt as to tell others that they must become carbon copies of ourselves in order to be truly Christian, and so we use terms like 'New Testament Christianity' and 'accepting thtruth' to soften the force of our arrogance. Men like

A. T. DeGroot are not slow to see that we equat'New Testament Christianity' with our own preferred practices, and that our 'accepting the truth' pleais hardly more than a call for a Church of Christ interpretation of the scriptures."

I am unaware of any claim that WE are the means of unity. We claim that the Bible is the only basis for unity which is acceptable to God. It demands that we all be one (John 17:21) and speak the same thing(I Cor. 1:10). Would that not be "accepting thtruth" and producing "New Testament Christianity"?

If we believe that we are right, what is wrong with asking others to "become like ourselves"? If we don't believe that we are right, we should change.If we know that we can't equate our doctrine andpractice with "New Testament Christianity" we are dishonest if we continue.

What does he mean by a '.'Church of Christ interpretation" of the scriptures? Why not give us some examples. I am dubious about accepting party-orientated interpretations, but on the controversial passages in the religious world I believe it safe to state that our position is in harmony with the consensus of the scholarship of the world. I can't think of a passage where our understanding and teachingis in conflict with scholarship. If there is one, then we ought to change and accept the true meaning. By reading his articles, I think I understand what Garrett means. To conclude from such passages as John 17:20-22; I Cor. 1:10; and Acts 2:47 that all Christians are in one body and that body is the church of Christ is, to him, a "church of Christ interpretation." I deny it!

We quote again from Garrett:

"This kind of mentality makes void any appeal for unity to men like DeGroot. Surely we cannot be serious, they ask themselves, in supposing that a dividedChristendom will see in us the panacea for its perennial illne . They see our plea for unity as nothing more than a demand for conformity. In their eyes we are more like a sect seeking to strengthen itself rather than a movement seeking to unite all Christians. Indeed, we have long left the impression that there are no Christians besides ourselves, that only we are the true church, and that unity is a simplematter of 'obeying the gospel' and 'going by thBook.' That means of course that all other churches, everything from high church Episcopalians to lowlPentecostals, will become Churches of Christ such as may be seen by any inquiring person in such placesas Nashville and Dallas."

Yes, our plea is a plea for conformity — conformity to the word of God! How can there be unity without everyone hearing the word of the apostles (John 17:20) and walking by the same rule (Phil. 3:16)Garrett implies that there are Christians outside the church of Christ, and that simply "obeying the gospel" and "going by the Book" will not produce scriptural unity. He is wrong.

Does he believe that the Episcopalians and Pentecostals are right? If so, he should join them, but inthe December, 1968 i ue of his paper he said that he was not leaving the Church of Christ. If those denominational people are wrong, would it be wrongfor us to admonish them to become Christians by"obeying the gospel" and "going by the Book"?

Evidently Garrett and Ketcherside have accepted the old sectarian idea that truth is relative; that there is no absolute standard and all "believers in Christ" are Christians regardless of their doctrinal errors and sectarian affiliations. The Bible presents no such concept of truth and Christianity!

Garrett reported with pleasure that a "Church of Christ minister" in the Dallas-Fort Worth area delivered a le on on unity wherein he agreed withDeGroot's statement. Speaking of that sermon, Garrett said, "In humility he concedes to what he would no doubt have once considered fighting words, or as a vicious attack upon the church. A Church of Christ minister concedes to a charge by a Christian Church scholar that we are not a genuine unity movementAnd this he did before his Sunday morning assembly, and i ued copies of it to make sure they understood."

Now if Garrett thinks that such a report is shocking to many of us, we have a surprise for him. This only proves again how far many preachers andchurches have traveled down the road of sectarianism, compromise and apostasy. We agree that the"plea" of some churches of Christ is a farce, but we strongly defend OUR plea for unity based upon theword of God. We do not defend the "unity" of themodern ecumenical spirit which is nothing more than agreeing to disagree agreeably

On the front cover of the January, 1969 i ue of "Restoration Review" there is a picture of Thomas Campbell with the following quotation from himunderneath:

"The church of Christ upon earth is essentially,intentionally, and constitutionally one; consisting ofall those in every place that profess their faith inChrist and obedience to him in all things accordingto the scr iptures, and that manifest the same btheir tempers and conduct."

I will accept that statement as a true representation of scriptural unity and New Testament Christianity. Will brother Garrett accept it? I believe that all who render "obedience to him in all things according to the scriptures" are Christians and members of the same body, the church of Christ. Garrettdoesn't seem to believe that.

I would like for all who have become so lovable

and tolerant of doctrinal error that they have made

the road to heaven the "broad way" to give careful

consideration to the following verses:

"Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in thdoctrine of Chr ist, hath not God. He that abidetin the doctrine of Chr ist, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bringnot this doctrine, receive him not into your house,neither bid him God-speed: For he that biddeth himGod-speed is partaker of his evil deeds" (Second John 9-11).

My "church of Christ interpretation" of those verses is that they mean exactly what they say!

QUESTION — (The following is from a letter received by Brother Phillips and forwarded to me foranswer in this column.— M.E.P.) " — said it (Heb.

10:25 — M.E.P.) was a command; that the congregation sinned, if they didn't meet Sunday morning,Sunday night, and Wednesday night. I am asking youto give your version of the verse according to thNew Testament. Please publish your answer in SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES, if you see fit."

— P.E.K.

ANSWER— I have observed for a long time thaHeb. 10:25 is frequently misunderstood and misused. Sometimes its meaning is forced beyond what Godintended. Sometimes it is minimized far short of truth. While the verse involves some points of controversy that may be difficult to settle beyond all dispute, these points need not keep one from seeing the primary le on intended.

It is true that the "assembling" under consideration has back of it all the force of a command. Note the strong negative: "Not forsaking" or which is the same, "Forsake not." The real issue, however, so far as the letter of our querist is concerned is when and how often the "assembling" is to be done

It should be observed first of all that the command does not refer to one assembly in particular. The command is not, "Not forsaking the assembly," butrather, "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together." The word "assembling" is not a noun, butan adverbial noun and, therefore, refers to the action or practice of meeting with saints. Perhaps a comparison of a few different versions would bebeneficial:

"Not neglecting to meet together, as in the

habit of some.. ." (R.S.V.

"Let us not neglect meeting together as some

do . . ." (Goodspeed

"Not forsaking the gathering of ourselves to

gether, as some have the custom . .." (New

World Translation

"Not forsaking our own assembling together,

as the custom of some is . .." (A.S.V.

"Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves

together.. ." (K.J.V.This simply means that when and how often the assembling was done must be determined from some other source.

Some think that "the day approaching" refers to the Lord's day; that it identifies the "assembling" under consideration — hence, the Lord's day assembly — and that the "exhorting" is with a view to being present in this assembly. However, a more careful study of the verse shows this view to be inerror. There can be no doubt that the "exhorting" is to be increased as "the day" approaches. That means (according to the above view) that the "exhorting" must increase each day over the day before until bySaturday one would hardly have time for anythinelse. Yet, one good session with an unfaithfulbrother, "exhorting" him to be present in the assembly, should and would often suffice. Certainly, after converting him early in the week with respect to his duty, it would be absurd to return again anagain on the remaining days of the week, with increased effort, seeking the same objective. Obviously, the "exhorting" has some other end in viewthan simply being present in the Lord's day assembly. Especially, must this be so in view of the factthat all saints — including the apostle Paul — are the objects of this "exhorting." Note the pronouns "us," "ourselves," and "one another" (vs. 24,25). Neither Paul nor other faithful brethren needed such exhortation.

The contrasting conjunction "but" makes the "exhorting" equal the very antithesis of forsaking theassembling of ourselves together. This makes the "exhorting" that which is received when saints assemble together. The Hebrew Christians were not to miss this "exhorting" (by not meeting with thesaints) but rather receive it (by being present in the assemblies where such was given) and benefit therefrom.

"The day" of our text refers to one involving some catastrophic event calculated to shake their faith to its very foundation. The "exhorting" was needed byall in view of this event. It would help them to withstand, endure, and overcome during this time ofgreat trial. There is nothing absurd about increasingexhortation that is of such nature as to providestrength for an approaching time of trial. In fact,they all needed it, so much the more, as they saw the day approaching

Jesus had foreseen and foretold them of such a day. They could see it approaching by the signs givenby our Lord (Matt. 24:1-34). These signs refer to the destruction of Jerusalem — a day when God'swrath or judgment was to be poured out upon thenation of Israel. Jesus said that during this time "Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake. And then shall many be offended,and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, thelove of many shall wax cold .. . For then shall begreat tribulation, such as was not since the beginningof the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. Andexcept those days should be shortened, there shouldno flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those daysshall be shortened" (Matt. 24:9-12, 21, 22). This was the need for the "exhorting" which they received when they worshiped with the saints. This is whthey were urged to "hold fast the profession of ourfaith without wavering" and to "provoke one another unto love and good works" (vs. 23,24). Furthermore, after pointing out the consequences of failing to follow this plan for receiving the strength needed (vs. 26-31), Paul continues in the context to focus attention on a time of tr ial and calls upon them to remember a former period of trial and to use it as an example in the face of the one now approaching (vs. 32-36).

I realize that some say "the day" is the final day ofjudgment. So far as the primary le on intended is concerned it matters little which day of judgment is under consideration. Meeting with the saints is God's plan whereby they receive strength needed for anytime of tr ial.

But perhaps someone will say, if it refers to thedestruction of Jerusalem, what application does it have to us? T his question fails to distinguish between God's law and the circumstances under which it is carried out. For example, in the cases of conversion in the book of Acts, the circumstances under which conversion takes place differ in every case,but the law of pardon is always the same. Unless one is careful to distinguish between the two, he is likely to confuse the circumstances with the process of conversion itself. So it is in the case of our text. The circumstances under which the faith of the Hebrew Christians was to be tried involved the destruction of Jerusalem. God's law or plan for thChristian, that he might be able to stand, is clearly stated: "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhortinone another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." We may not face the same circumstances of trial, but God's law is the same. Wemay not see as clearly as they any particular time of trial approaching, but of this we may be sure, Come they will! Sometimes elders foresee a time of crisis for the church — e.g., a wave of digression sweepingthe brotherhood. In the face of such the church plans more frequent meetings — maybe special classeswith special teachers — dealing with the i ues involved. Authority for such is Heb. 10:25. Regardless of whether or not we are able to see any particular time of trial approaching, this is God's plan wherebyChristians receive strength to stand in the face of all trials.

When and How often did the early saints assemble? According to the New Testament the answer var ies from time to time and from place to place.It depended upon the circumstances, the need, another related matters. Of course, there was alwaythe Lord's day assembly with the items of worshippeculiar to it (Acts 20:7; I Cor. 16:1-2). That there were other assemblies — some of them daily for indefinite periods of time — is evident from the following scr iptures: Acts 2:42, 46; Acts 19:9, 1014:27; I Cor. 14. Furthermore, the need for such assemblies is equally clear from these scriptures: Heb. 5:12-14; I Cor. 3:1-3; Phil. 1:9; II Tim. 2:15.

While the authority for the Lord's day assemblyis specific, the authority for the other assemblies is generic as to time. This means that the number and time of such meetings are matters of judgment. Ndoubt, the Lord put them in this realm in recognitionof other necessary and legitimate obligations of life. It is next to impo ible to arrange such meetings without some conflict on the part of someone withsome necessary and legitimate obligation. Hence, inplanning such the church uses its best judgment iview of prevailing circumstances to benefit most of the congregation. The Christian, therefore, who absents himself from such assemblies, except for neeessary and legitimate obligations elsewhere, is in conflict with this divinely authorized plan. He wilhave to account for his cooperation or lack of cooperation with the whole body in the last day (Heb.13:17; Eph. 4:14-16). It should be remembered that while the generic authority for such assemblies allows for exceptions (mentioned above), it does not allow for absentees on the basis of an optional choiceof the individual according to his will. It does not allow for absence on the basis of rebellion, negligence, or indifference.

May we all recognize our need for gaining all thespiritual strength po ible and heed the words of our text: "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhortingone another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." This is God's plan that enables us to stand in the face of any and all trials.

"A LETTER OF REBUKE"

Most people who write in religious journals receive mail. Some of this mail is complementary andsome isn't. Some letters are complementary but also contain constructive criticism. Others are written in sarcasm. Some are designed to make the writer feel little. Such is the letter I want you to read in this article. Back in 1964 I wrote an article in SearchingThe Scriptures entitled, "About ten thousand dollars." It dealt with a conversation I had with brother Gayle Oler, Superintendent of Boles Home locatedabout ten miles south of Greenville. A sister in Christ who lives in Dyersburg, Tennessee wrote me a letter rebuking me for my attitude. I will not give her name because it would serve no good purpose and besides,to my knowledge, I have never met the woman. In her letter she did not question one word I said butmade her attack on what she considered was a bad attitude. Since that time I have read and re-read the article and I don't see in it what she charged. Here is her letter in full:

Dear brother Hogland, I read your article "About ten thousand dollars" in the October issue of "Searching the Scriptures." I find itvery revealing — it reveals the contempt yofeel for a man you call "Brother." Do you expectto win anyone to your point of view by slandering another?

Re-read the flippant remark you made iclosing this barrage of accusations (Subtly arranged) against a "Brother." Do you feeJehovah approves this attitude? A childish remark? Your article reveals impatience instead of manifesting love and patience as Paul asked Timothy to show in II Tim. 3:10 and 4:2. Do youfeel that you are following Paul's conduct? Can you read this article and detect any love for one you believe to be an erring brother? Maybe youfeel some, but the article leaves one feeling you are cold. You may say you are cold against error — but what word shows you love ? I begyou to look into the mirror of the word and behold the manner of man you see. Yours in Christ. (Mrs................................... ) Dyersburg, Tenn.

Now believe it or not I appreciate this Sister's letter. If she feels this way she certainly has a rightto express it. Her letter caused me to go back and reread the article to see if I had slandered brother Oler. To save my life, I couldn't find what the sister wastalking about. She did not state in her letter whatexpression I had used to charge me with slander. Another thing, she did not say whether she thoughtI was in error for opposing the Boles Home organization or whether brother Oler was in error for supporting it. It would not be expedient for me to reprint the article but I suggest you go back and read theOctober 1964 i ue of Searching the Scriptures. This sister in Christ gives two scriptures, let us noticethem. "But thou has fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purity, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience." The next scriptures say, "Preach the word;be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke,exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine."

In the article I was trying to do exactly what Paultold Timothy. I was rebuking, reproving and exhorting brother Oler and people who follow his doctrine to give it up before it is too late. Is this the conduct of someone who doesn't love? Is this slander? Is this childish ? Is this being cold ? If so, I fail to read myBible correctly. In the article I said, "Let us praythat the day will come when brother Oler will defend in public what he tried to defend in private." Is this the language of one who does not love ? When I tried to find out who stood "en loco parentis" at BolesHome, was this unfair? When I showed that if Boles Home is a home like mine (as Gayle said it is) and someone does not take care of their children thehave denied the faith and are worse than an infidel (I Tim. 5:8). What that childish and cold?

In II Tim. 4:14 Paul said, "Alexander the coppersmith, did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works: Of whom be thou ware also;for he hath greatly withstood our words." Was Paul short on love because he warned Timothy about this man ? These are the words of a man full of love and compa ion. He felt a burning desire to fight alinnovations.

In closing may I say that if I could find where I slandered anyone I would be glad to apologize. I feel that slander is a treacherous matter and must be corrected. However, since my critic did not tell me where in my article I had slandered, I must leave matters as they are. I feel that this sister in Christ wouldhave spent her time to a much greater advantage if she had taken the Bible and pointed out my error in opposing an organization like Boles Home takinmoney from church treasuries all over the land. If I am in error about this matter she would be the best friend I have by giving me the scripture which vindicates such an arrangement. Gentle reader, it is fine to tell the other person to use the gospel mirror to look at his own soul but while giving out the advice remember Paul also said, "Thou therefore which teacheth another, teachest thou not thyself? Thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thousteal? Thou that sayest a man should not commitadultery, dost thou commit adultery? Thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege"? (Rom. 2:21-22).

THE HOLY SPIRIT

J. T. Smith

The Subject for this series of articles will be theHoly Spirit; and will deal with different aspects of who He is; what His part was in the long ago; anwhat His work was with regard to our receiving theBible, and what His work is today

It would certainly be presumptuous on my part to think that I will be able to cover, and be able to explain, all about the Holy Spirit. I can only know whatGod has said in His Word about the Holy Spirit. There are some things I cannot know, for God has not revealed them to me (Deut. 29:29)

As we study together what God had to say on this subject, I hope that you recognize that there are many difficulties to be found in much of the Bible's dealing with the Holy Spirit. I am sure that there will be some who will disagree with some of the conclusions that may be reached in these articles. I hope,however, that you will give careful consideration to the things that are said, and study the Scriptures to see if they are true (Acts 11:17). If, at any time,you think I have missed the point in these le ons, Iwould appreciate your findings on the particular phase of the article with which you disagree.

As our title for this column suggests, we will talkabout things in their broadest aspect, consideringthe over-all theme; then turn to a contextual study;and then to a study of the passage themselves as they relate to the subject

In this first article, we want to consider the overall picture with reference to the Holy Spirit. We find from our study of the Bible that He was a member of the Godhead — or that He possessed the characteristics of Deity. The Spirit is able to search all things,even the deep things of God (I Cor. 2:10-11). Hence,the Spirit is Omniscient or all-knowing, having thknowledge of God. But, He is also all-powerful, orOmnipotent, having been called upon by the Father to set the material universe in order (Gen. 1:2; Isa. 32:15; Job 26:13). And, He is also one from whom we are unable to flee (Ps. 139:7) ; hence He is Omnipresent. But, these are the characteristics, as everyBible student knows, possessed only by God anChrist or those who are Deity

But, not only did the Holy Spirit have a part in the material universe, but also in the spiritual creation. Christ promised to set up a spiritual kingdom (Matt. 16:18-19). This kingdom was to be set up during thelifetime of many who lived during Christ's lifetime (Mark 9:1). However, it could not be set up withoutthe help of the Holy Spirit. This was prophesied in the Old Testament by Joel in Joel Chapter two. This prophesy came to pass in Acts 2:16-21; for Peter said, "this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel... "

These things, then, set forth the Holy Spirit in the broadest sense. In the articles that will follow, wwill deal with the Holy Spirit and the inspired Word,the Holy Spirit and conversion, the gift and indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and the blasphemy and sin against the Holy Spir it.

300 Haynes St.

Dayton, Ohio 45410 essary and legitimate obligations elsewhere, is in conflict with this divinely authorized plan. He wilhave to account for his cooperation or lack of cooperation with the whole body in the last day (Heb.13:17; Eph. 4:14-16). It should be remembered that while the generic authority for such assemblies allows for exceptions (mentioned above), it does not allow for absentees on the basis of an optional choiceof the individual according to his will. It does notallow for absence on the basis of rebellion, negligence, or indifference.

May we all recognize our need for gaining all the spiritual strength po ible and heed the words of our text: "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhortingone another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." This is God's plan that enables us to stand in the face of any and all trials.

"A LETTER OF REBUKE"

Most people who write in religious journals receive mail. Some of this mail is complementary andsome isn't. Some letters are complementary but also contain constructive criticism. Others are written in sarcasm. Some are designed to make the writer feel little. Such is the letter I want you to read in thisarticle. Back in 1964 I wrote an article in SearchingThe Scriptures entitled, "About ten thousand dollars." It dealt with a conversation I had with brother Gayle Oler, Superintendent of Boles Home locatedabout ten miles south of Greenville. A sister in Christ who lives in Dyersburg, Tennessee wrote me a letter rebuking me for my attitude. I will not give her name because it would serve no good purpose and besides,to my knowledge, I have never met the woman. In her letter she did not question one word I said butmade her attack on what she considered was a bad attitude. Since that time I have read and re-read the article and I don't see in it what she charged. Here is her letter in full:

Re-read the flippant remark you made iclosing this barrage of accusations (Subtly arranged) against a "Brother." Do you feeJehovah approves this attitude? A childish remark? Your article reveals impatience instead of manifesting love and patience as Paul asked Timothy to show in II Tim. 3:10 and 4:2. Do youfeel that you are following Paul's conduct? Canyou read this article and detect any love for one you believe to be an erring brother? Maybe youfeel some, but the article leaves one feeling you are cold. You may say you are cold against error — but what word shows you love? I begyou to look into the mirror of the word and behold the manner of man you see. Yours in Christ. (Mrs................................... ) Dyersburg, Tenn.

In the article I was trying to do exactly what Paultold Timothy. I was rebuking, reproving and exhorting brother Oler and people who follow his doctrine to give it up before it is too late. Is this the conduct of someone who doesn't love? Is this slander? Is this childish ? Is this being cold ? If so, I fail to read mBible correctly. In the article I said, "Let us praythat the day will come when brother Oler will defend in public what he tried to defend in private." Is this the language of one who does not love ? When I tried to find out who stood "en loco parentis" at BolesHome, was this unfair? When I showed that if Boles Home is a home like mine (as Gayle said it is) and someone does not take care of their children thehave denied the faith and are worse than an infidel (I Tim. 5:8). What that childish and cold?

In II Tim. 4:14 Paul said, "Alexander the coppersmith, did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works: Of whom be thou ware also;for he hath greatly withstood our words." Was Paul short on love because he warned Timothy about this man? These are the words of a man full of love and compa ion. He felt a burning desire to fight alinnovations.

In closing may I say that if I could find where I slandered anyone I would be glad to apologize. I feel that slander is a treacherous matter and must be corrected. However, since my critic did not tell me where in my article I had slandered, I must leave matters as they are. I feel that this sister in Christ wouldhave spent her time to a much greater advantage if she had taken the Bible and pointed out my error in opposing an organization like Boles Home takinmoney from church treasuries all over the land. If I am in error about this matter she would be the best friend I have by giving me the scripture which vindicates such an arrangement. Gentle reader, it is fine to tell the other person to use the gospel mirror to look at his own soul but while giving out the advice remember Paul also said, "Thou therefore which teacheth another, teachest thou not thyself? Thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thousteal? Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? Thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege"? (Rom. 2:21-22).

THE HOLY SPIRIT

J. T. Smith

The Subject for this series of articles will be theHoly Spirit; and will deal with different aspects of who He is; what His part was in the long ago; andwhat His work was with regard to our receiving the Bible, and what His work is today.

It would certainly be presumptuous on my part to think that I will be able to cover, and be able to explain, all about the Holy Spirit. I can only know what God has said in His Word about the Holy Spir it. There are some things I cannot know, for God has not revealed them to me (Deut. 29:29).

As we study together what God had to say on this subject, I hope that you recognize that there aremany difficulties to be found in much of the Bible'sdealing with the Holy Spirit. I am sure that there will be some who will disagree with some of the conclusions that may be reached in these articles. I hope, however, that you will give careful consideration tothe things that are said, and study the Scriptures to see if they are true (Acts 11:17). If, at any time, you think I have missed the point in these lessons, I would appreciate your findings on the particular phase of the article with which you disagree.

As our title for this column suggests, we will talk about things in their broadest aspect, considering the over-all theme; then turn to a contextual study; and then to a study of the passage themselves as they relate to the subject.

In this first article, we want to consider the overall picture with reference to the Holy Spirit. We find from our study of the Bible that He was a member of the Godhead — or that He possessed the characteristics of Deity. The Spirit is able to search all things, even the deep things of God (I Cor. 2:10-11). Hence, the Spirit is Omniscient or all-knowing, having theknowledge of God. But, He is also all-powerful, orOmnipotent, having been called upon by the Father to set the material universe in order (Gen. 1:2; Isa. 32:15; Job 26:13). And, He is also one from whom we are unable to flee (Ps. 139:7); hence He is Omnipresent. But, these are the characteristics, as every Bible student knows, possessed only by God andChrist or those who are Deity.

But, not only did the Holy Spirit have a part in the material universe, but also in the spiritual creation. Christ promised to set up a spiritual kingdom (Matt. 16:18-19). This kingdom was to be set up during the lifetime of many who lived during Christ's lifetime (Mark 9:1). However, it could not be set up without the help of the Holy Spirit. This was prophesied in the Old Testament by Joel in Joel Chapter two. This prophesy came to pass in Acts 2:16-21; for Peter said, "this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel... "

These things, then, set forth the Holy Spirit in the broadest sense. In the articles that will follow, wewill deal with the Holy Spirit and the inspired Word, the Holy Spirit and conversion, the gift and indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and the blasphemy and sin against the Holy Spir it.

300 Haynes St.

Dayton, Ohio 45410

THE NEWS LETTER REPORTS

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

CO-EDITOR TO MOVE

Jas. P. Miller

If it is the Master's will, I will be in the pulpit of the 12th Street congregation in Bowling Green, Kentucky on the first Sunday in May of this year. Yes, after sixteen years with the Seminole church inT ampa, I am moving to another city and another work. The years at Seminole have been years never to be forgotten. From a modest beginning, the congregation has grown and fought for the Truth until it is one of the best known churches in America. It now has five good elders, a dozen deacons and about 300 members. In 1957, the congregation erected the present building on an entire city block which is one of the best in the city. In a matter of just a few months, the property will be completely free of debt. Plans call for a number of men to be supported fully by this fine church. Brother Barney Keith, of Florence, Alabama will move here to replace me in themonth of June. I feel that he is a fortunate choice for the brethren here and he will do a great work in this section.

12th STREET WORK

The 12th Street congregation in Bowling Green is one of the oldest and most honorable churches in the state. It has a long and wonderful history. Brother

B. G. Hope spent eighteen years in her service and it is my prayer that I will be able to carry on thescriptural heritage of this great congregation. My leaving Seminole was of my own choice and a surprise to the brethren. There are 25 congregations standing for the "old paths" in Tampa. Western Kentucky, where so much of my preaching has been done, has not been so fortunate. I hope to be able, with the support of a congregation like 12th Street, to influence many brethren to take a closer look at what is happening to the brotherhood today. Time will tell if this can be done, but with the Lord's help, I am going to try.

The elders at 12th Street are W. L. Foshee, W. T. Harrah, and J. N. Bowman. These are good men who stood for the truth of the gospel against the liberalism of the day and who are prepared to guide thecongregation to greater things. The church has about 425 members and a determination to look to the future and not at the accomplishments of thepast. I am indebted to brother Weldon Warnock for preaching at 12th Street on Lord's Day morning until I can make the move.

MY WORK AND THE PAPER

I shall continue my association with brother Phillips on SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES. It has been well known by brethren for several years that brother Phillips is the real editor of the journal. Heworks on the success of SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES several hours every day. My work for some time has been confined to the outside interests of the journal and I shall continue to do this to the best of my ability. As a matter of fact, I will be worth more to him in another section of the country than I am here, and will continue to call attention to the paper and work for its circulation and growth. Our connection through the years has been as nearly perfect as can be arranged by mortal men, and we see no need to change.

MY ADDRESS

Until I am able to build or buy a house in Bowling Green I will use the office as an address. After the first of May, write me at 213 East 12th Street inBowling Green, Kentucky, 42101 Zip. If any of thereaders of SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES want to buy a beautiful home in Tampa, call me at 935-5062 and I will give you the details.

I hope to return to Florida in later years, andnothing would please me more than to again be associated with the Seminole congregation where so many of my years of my family's life have beenspent. Both my wife and I wish for her even greater things in the year s to come.

----------------o -----------

Charles F. House, P.O. Box 1031, Douglas, Ariz. 85607 — Roul Lopez Garcia, 48, an Agua Prieta grocer, who has been blind about 14 years, was baptized into Christ on December 4th at Douglas. A high of 26 in attendance was reached at Douglas during December. There is a possibility that brother Garciacan regain his sight through an operation. Anyoneinterested in helping him regain his sight, write for details and you can deal direct with him.

TEXAS NORMAL SINGING SCHOOLP.O. Box 456Sabinal, Texas

On June 8th, 1969, Texas Normal Singing School will open its doors for the twenty-fourth year ofoperation to help train men and boys in the field ofhymn music and song leading. Men and boys havecome to this school from all parts of the nation, Hawaii, Philippine Islands, Australia and Canada.

T.N.S.S. has been in operation long enough to produce all of its own text books. With the most modern, updated text books and teaching aids, we are in a better position to do a better job than ever before. Many of our finest, new songs have been written by our staff and students.

Each student in this school is placed in classes according to their knowledge of music; then progress with a four year curriculum to the point where they can teach and write hymn music, as well as do anacceptable job of song leading. With the laboratory method of training song leaders, each one is given the help he needs. The school also has a voice department of two well-trained voice teachers where each student has one voice class each day. The school also has its own campus of dormitories, kitchen, dininghall, teachers' cabins and class facilities. Every student may stay on the campus and have properfood and housing. Preacher students will have preaching opportunity

Congregations and individuals interested in making improvement in the song service are urged towrite for a folder of information by addressing your request to: Edgar Furr, 1109 Ave. I, Del Rio, Texas 78840.

Olen Holderby, San Pablo, Calif. — All continues to go well in San Pablo. We have had twenty baptisms since last report. Paul Lusby of Amarillo,Texas is to be with us in a gospel meeting March 23-30.

PREACHER STORIES

Mrs. Jack Frost, Sr.

Prior to his death, October 18th, my husband had planned to publish a collection of "preacher stories." He had printed a letterhead, begun composition of a general letter, collected names of preachers and addresses to write, and had set the kick-off date as the week of the Florida College lectures where hehad hoped to see a good number of preachers. Some of the notes he had prepared for the letter of solicitation are as follows:

... A collection of true stories concerning amusing and interesting incidents in the lives of gospel preachers. This is not to be just another book ofjokes, but actual happenings, humorous experiences our fellow preachers are willing to share. I solicit your contributions of a personal experience, related with no offence to anyone. It will be published in the framework of your own words and arrangement.Keep the narrative brief and to the point. Credit will be given to each contributor. And remember, please,the incidents must be true, must have actually occurred to your personal knowledge

To his memory we plan to fulfill this desire of his. We are requesting that all articles be sent to me: Mrs. Jack Frost, Sr., Welti Road, Cullman, Alabama 35055. Please take a few minutes now to record an incident or two that comes to mind that you are willing to share. We hope to complete this project within the next few months.

Jack Dugger, 7354 Char lotte Road, Nashville,Tenn. 37209 — The church of Christ in Hopkinsville,Kentucky, now known as Skyline Drive church ofChrist, has purchased property and occupied at thecorner of Skyline and Moseley Drives, two blocks west of U.S. Highway 41 (Nashville Road). Progress has been very slow as to numbers — better, we trust, spiritually. We look forward to greater growth inumbers and renewed interest on the part of those who worship together.

Rodney Miller, 6101 Linton, Haltom City, Texas — James P. Miller will hold our spring meeting for the Haltom City church of Christ, April 6-11. The building is on the 121 freeway, address is 6101 Linton.

Our work here continues to grow in spite of Texas weather and the Hong Kong flu this winter with the addition of several families this month.

James H. Spencer, P.O. Box 671, Destin, Fla. 32541

— The Lord's church in Albany, Georgia is nowmeeting in a new location and many readers of Searching The Scriptures pass through the city. This is the one and only chur ch in the city that stands for the truth in the Lord's work. We are located at 517 Pine Avenue, Albany, Ga., phone 435-6789 or435-7987. Paul Foutz, 8230 S. Laramie, Oak Lawn, Ill. 60459 — Recently here in the S.W. Chicago area at Burbank Manor we have had five baptisms; two youngmen, one lady who had studied for some time with the Jehovah Witnesses and a man and his wife; he a Greek Orthodox and she a member of the United Church of Christ.

Hoyt H. Houchen, 12528 E. Alaska Place, Aurora,Colo. 80010 — We are interested in establishing a congregation after the New Testament order in Colorado Springs, Colorado. If any of you readers know of any faithful brethren there, or if there are faithful brethren living there, please contact our son: Ronnie Houchen, 2408 Lark Drive, Apt. 6, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80900. Please let us hear as soon as po ible as we wish to get this new work under way very soon.

James L. Denison, 3402 Henderson Blvd., Tampa,Fla. — Colin Williamson of Ocala, Florida will be the speaker in a gospel meeting at Henderson Boulevard,3402 Henderson Blvd., Tampa, Florida, March 30April 4, 1969. All in the Tampa area are invited toattend.

Billy G. Webber, Southern Air Transport, Inc.,

C.M.R. Box 886, A.P.O. San Francisco 96323 — The church which formerly met in the Boy Scout Center,Bayside Courts, Yokohama, Japan, is now meetingin the chapel at Kamiseya (U.S. Navy SecurityGroup Activity) on Sundays at 1245 for Bible study,1345 for worship. We meet in the homes of Gordon Price or Earl Chilson on Tuesdays at 1930 for Bible study. We ask that any Chr istians coming to thTokyo-Yokohama area call Earl Chilson CTC, aKamiseya 8474, or Gordon Price CTC, at Kamiseya8459, or Bill Webb, near Tachikawa, at 0425-41-7942, or write to the above address.

COME TO JAPANFull time preacher of the gospelurgently needed in Yokohama area!

OPPORTUNITY: to work with English-speaking congregation while learning Japanese languageWe can furnish travel fare and partial support.If interested, contact Billy G. Webber, Southern Air Transport, Inc., C.M.R. Box 886, A.P.O.San Francisco 96323.

THE "DAYS" OF CREATION (GEN. 1 AND 2) —LITERAL OR FIGURATIVE? (No. 1)

The past few issues have been devoted to a discussion of the language of Genesis 1 and 2 andwhether or not the various words and phrases shall be considered as literal or figurative. We suggest that all readers go back and review these articles and reread the rules of interpretation and laws of hermeneutics that enable us to determine how we distinguish between that which is figurative andthat which is literal. THESE SAME RULES MUST APPLY AS WE DETERMINE THE MEANING OF THE TERM "DAY" IN GENESIS 1 AND 2 AS IT REFERS TO THE CREATIVE ACTIVITY OF GOD Were each of these "days" what we ordinarily thinof when we hear the word used? Shall we regard them as 24 hour days or were they great ages, witheach "day" an eon covering an immense period oftime as all evolutionists regard them?

To the Bible believer, "age" is no problem. Twenty-four hour s is ample "time" to do ever ythingwhich was done on each "day" since GOD AND DIVINE POWER WAS IN OPERATION. But "time" is very important to the evolutionist and his "faith" for he reckons without Divine power (supernaturalism) and with his "theory" of natural processes he MUST HAVE a long span of time if his "theory"is true. We "believe" that God "created" the universe, the earth, life and finally man within thCYCLE of six days, involving evening and morning,darkness and light and Night and Day. T his wasadequate "time" for all the things enumerated tobe brought into being. What the evolutionist needs is not "time" but POWE R. He doesn't have the power adequate to all the effects we see if he were given 100 BILLION years. The Bible believer has the POWER and the "time," ADEQUATE tEVERY EFFECT, is LONG ENOUGH to accomplish all Gen. 1 says was done.

In Genesis we have a record of the ORIGIN of the universe and life, including man. It is written innormal, easy-to-be-understood words, the vehicle tconvey God's thoughts and His record to man of"The Beginning." The language is NOT ambiguous. It is simple and concise. We are told that in six days God made the heavens, earth, sea and all that in them is. We are told that each day had its eveninand morning. We are also told what God did WITHIN each creation day. We are told of God's purpose in creating the sun and the moon AND THE FUNCTIONS EACH WAS TO PERFORM. They were to divide the day from the night; they were to be for signs and seasons and for days and years. The greater light was to rule the Day, the lesser lightwas to rule the Night, and they were to divide thelight from the darkne . So, as specifically mentioned in Gen. 1:4-5, all six of these contrastingterms are used (evening, morning with darkness and light, each called night and day). WE ACTUALLY BELIEVE THE CONTEXT OF GENESIS 1 CALLS NOT PRIMARILY FOR INTERPRETATION; IT CALLS FOR SIMPLE FAITH AND ACCEPTANCE. It is too clear to be misunderstood.

When the sound and basic principles of hermenutics are applied any "objective" person can see what is involved in the context. To make the Hebrew word "yom" (Day) mean millions of years, ages or eons,has no more grammatical justification, as applied tothe creation account in Genesis 1, than it does inGen. 7:17,24, and many similar passages. We still must adhere to the rules and laws laid down (see previous studies), the literal is the "rule"; the figurative is the "exception." Words are to be taken in their ordinary, normal, meaning unless the CONTEXT demands otherwise or would be contrary tothe narrative. We must take "day" in this ordinaryway in Genesis 1, unless the context determines it to be otherwise. I am told by scholars who should know that in the 5 books of Moses "yom" (day) is found 396 times (14 times in Genesis 1) yet "those who hold to the day-age theor y ask us to give to the word 'day' a meaning ( i.e. an indefinite per iod oftime such as age — P.F.) it NOWHERE has in theentire five books" (C.R.S. Annual 1965, pp 8-9).Leupold, a noted Hebrew scholar, in his Genesis,Vol. I, says, "There ought to be no need of refutingthe idea that "yom" means period. Reputable dictionaries like Buhl, B D E or KW know nothing ofthis notion. Hebrew dictionaries are our primary source of reliable information concerning Hebrewwords. Commentaries with critical leanings utter statements that very decided in this instance" (CRS Annual, cited above — several are mentioned. P.F,)

Now "day" means in Gen. 1 and 2 just what wecommonly regard it as meaning. There are two exceptions. In Gen. 1:5 the context shows it does NOT carry the ordinary accepted usage, for it is set over against, and contrasted with, the term Night. SDay and Night, IN THIS CONTEXT ONLY, means that portion of the entire 24 hour cycle wherein part involved Light and part Darkne . The only other exception in Gen. 1 and 2 is in Gen. 2:4 where context sums up God's activity and qualifies "day" bthe definite length of time involved in the "creative" week of six normal, regular days. If "day" in Gen.1 and 2, apart from these two exceptions, QUALIFIED BY CONTEXT, doesn't mean an ordinary"day" what does the term mean in 1:14-15 (mentioned previously) where the sun and moon were to regulate and "be for signs, and for seasons, and for days and years ? If not ordinary days what were they and how about the "seasons" and "years"! Delitzsch well says (Vol. I The Pentateuch, pg. 51),"If the days of creation are regulated by the recurring interchange of "light" and "darkness" they must be regarded NOT as periods of time of incalculable duration of years or thousands of years, but as simple earthly days."

IRA NORTH'S DENOMINATIONAL CHURCH

On Nov. 7, 1968, the Nashville Banner had a front page article telling about the Madison Church ofChrist being the "winner of the 12th annual Guideposts Church Award for 'conspicuous initiative andspiritual creativity." The announcement of this award was made by "Dr. Norman Vincent Pealefounder and co-editor of the interfaith, interdenominational monthly." We are further told in the newspaper article that "The Madison congregation was selected for the honor from several hundred nominations made by newspaper religion editors and Guidepost readers." The award was not given for any onething the church did not rather it was given because of "the total program of the church." "The award is designated for 'conspicuous initiative and spiritual creativity that functions beyond the normal reach of religion,' and the Madison Church of Christ is strongin all phases, not just a single field." Mr. Peale is the preacher or "pastor of Marble Collegiate Church, Dutch Reformed congregation, in New York City since 1931."

The January 4, 1969, Nashville Banner told about the coming visit of Mr. Peale to Nashville for the presentation of the award. Also readers were informed that the publisher of the Banner would introduce Peale. Special music would be provided by thea capella chorus from David Lipscomb College under the direction of Charles Nelson. Jim Bill McInteer of the Nashville West End Church of Christ would give the invocation with Bill Ruhl, president of the

B. C. Goodpasture Christian School, giving the benediction. The church news editor of the Banner was master of ceremonies for the event.

Then the Nashville Banner on January 8, 1969,gave nearly two pages to an article and pictures of the events at the Madison church. Peale said that each year between 400 and 500 churches are nominated to receive the award and "the one that emerges as the winner just has to be one of the extraordinarychurches in the United States." The publisher of the Banner is quoted as saying, "You have somethinghere that should be the envy of the Christian world,and you have invited to be your speaker here tonight a man who preaches what you and I believe in." Also from this article it is learned if not known before that the Madison church sponsors (1) a furniture workshop, (2) a camp, (3) a kindergarten, (4) "a Thursday school for pre-school children to give mothers a day off from home duties" (5) a scout troop, and (6) some kind of art and communications.

All of this and a lot more that could be said about the Madison church just points out how far awayfrom the New Testament this congregation has drifted with its promoter Ira North. From the above information there are several things which come to light about this congregation:

(1) At a service conducted by the church of Christ denominational people were given a prominent parin the service. The speaker of the evening, Peale, is a denominational church preacher. Imagine the Apostle Paul have one of the leading teachers of error in his day speak at one of the services of the church. The publisher of the Banner who introduced Peale is a member of some church besides the Lord's. Then the master of ceremonies for the night is not a member of the body of Christ. With this kind of going on itwill not be long until the Madison church will behaving Billy Graham preach on Sunday (2) The Banner publisher said Peale "preaches what you and I believe in." Since both the Publisher and Peale believe in denominationalism and Peale preaches it, the Madison church believes and preaches the same thing. And when Ira North accepted the award he did not correct the matter and not a singleelder of the Madison church corrected it either. The people were lead to believe that North and Peale were in agreement and both were preaching the same thing. You just think how far from the New T estament a church is when her preacher will accept beinglinked up with one of the top rate modernists in the country. Let Ira North hob nob with Peale; thewriters of this journal prefer the company of Paul,Peter and Jesus. (3) The chorus from Lipscomb presented "special music." Peale and all the other denominationalist present accepted this as the choir from the church of Christ. This is the concept and practice of denominations and is contrary to the New Testament (Col.

3:16 and Eph. 5:19). Thus, David Lipscomb by having her chorus present and engaging in the activities endorsed what went on.

(4) The liberal element in Nashville endorsed what went on. The preacher for the West End church participated in the program. The president of the B. C. Goodpasture Christian School also participated.Then the very next i

ue of the Gospel Advocate,edited by B. C. Goodpasture, featured the weeklBible le

on by Charles R. Brewer, who is the a

istant preacher for the Madison church. (5) According to Robert Jackson in the Riverside Weekly, Jan. 17, 1969, Peale said that he has been called to preach by the Holy Spirit. Robert Jackson said, "There was not one reply made to this by Bro. North, or the elders at Madison. To this day thepeople have heard no reply to refute this statement." Jackson went on to say, "Will Bro. Ira North stepforth and deny that God called Dr. Peale to preach what he is now preaching ? Will the Madison Church step forth and deny same ? Will they do it ? We shall see!!!" Of course, they will not disagree with Peale who gave them such an honor (?) (6) Another thing that this church evidences is that the real problems in the church in recent years has NOT been over 'orphan homes.' The real problem has been the authority of the Bible and a strict observance of it by churches. All liberal churches will one day practice the very things Madison is now if

it, but they did say, that the interpretation was not

the same as the Jewish. . . T hey also told me not to

be swayed from the teachings of our ancestors... I

started to read this Holy Bible, or shall I say, just

glanced thru it, and received nothing from it, so I laid

it down and thought nothing of it.

In my travels, in almost every hotel that I entered, there was a Bible in the room. I found a little time to look into it, but still with no feelings of satisfaction. I knew that the Bible was given to people for some good reason and I knew that when a person wastroubled, they always looked to God and that God was the Bible, or the Bible is God ... So when some little thing came up and troubled me, I looked into the Holy Bible and still got nothing out of it, so, I laid it down, never realizing what I was doing.

In 1941 I married a non-Jewish woman. She was

then and is now a member of the body of Christ, the

church of Christ. . . My wife Ruby, knew I was

Jewish and never once did she question me about it,

as to what I intend to do. In fact we married each

other because we were following our concepts of our

heart, about two people being in love ... At this time,

I would like to inject one thought, my wife had no in

fluence over me one way, or another to become a mem

ber of the church of Christ. What I mean is, she did

not say to me, that either I become a Christian or we

will not be married. She accepted me for was I was.

While we were in Chicago, we met with my wife's

Aunt Emma, who was very religious, she asked me

a point blank question .. . Joe, "would you change

from Judaism to Christianity for Ruby's sake?" Not

wanting to hurt her, but I figured, the truth must

come out some time, so I said, "Aunt Emma, if I ever became a Christian, I would do it from within my

heart and not for any person for any reason. .."

She was very angry with me and was kind of sulky,

I will admit she was hurt, but I considered the facts

and that was that.

As time went by, Aunt Emma took very sick and we would get letters from Mama (Ruby's) that her time (Emma's) was running out, but she seemed tohold on for some thing. Well, in the meantime, I became a Christian, I wrote Mama to tell Aunt Emma that, we received a letter back, that when Aunt Emma heard the news that I was baptized, she had a smile on her face, and went into her deep sleep, she passed away very peaceful. I am running ahead of my story, but this was an actual fact and I felt that it should be said, also to say, that no person should become aChristian for any ones sake, except for the sake of themselves and our Master, Jesus Christ.

During our first year of married life, my wife was

attending the services at the church of Christ, where

ever we may have been, as we were doing a little

traveling at that time. She never asked me if I wanted

to go to church with her or not, because I was still

attending all the Jewish Holidays and going to the

synagogue every day . . . One thing did puzzle me,

what if the Jewish folks at the synagogue knew that

I was married to a non-Jewish woman, would they

have accepted me as they did? Would they have

allowed me to enter the synagogue ? What would they

have done? T hey never asked me, so I never told

them, I assume they thought she was Jewish. T his

much I knew, I never would have denied it, no matter

what they would have said or done.