HONOR TO WHOM HONOR -TRIBUTES TO

H.E. PHILLIPS

(Editor's note: Since the announcement went out that Searching The Scriptures was to change hands, many expressions of praise have come from many quarters for the work done by H. E. Phillips as editor of this paper. We will not attempt to carry them all, nor do we believe Brother Phillips would want us to devote page after page to this end. But we did think it inorder to carry such commendations sent from men who are regular contributors to the paper. It is only right that these expressions should be heard fromthese men who have worked so closely with Brother Phillips. The new editor expresses gratitude not only for the excellent work done by Brother Phillips aseditor, but also for his help in transferring the paper and its operation to Louisville.)

To my knowledge, Brother H. E. Phillips is one of the best friends I have in this world. This is not only true of me, but it is also true of hundreds of brethren all over the country.

I first met H. E. Phillips when I was in school atFlorida College in 1962. Since that time, he has been a great source of encouragement to me. Even while I was going to school and preaching for the Belmont Heights congregation in Tampa, he encouraged me towrite articles and send to him to be printed in Searching The Scriptures. I personally know of dozens of other young men he has encouraged in their work for the Lord.

When I first met Brother Phillips, I was impressed with his honesty and ability to teach the truth. Inmentioning his name, comments from at least twobrethren concerning him continue in my memory. One brother said of him, "I know of no brother among us who has more answers to Bible questions than does H.

E. Phillips." Another commented, "You have heard of gentlemen, and you have heard of Christians. H. E. Phillips is a Christian Gentleman." Through my association with him down through the years, I have found both statements to be true.

Although I have known Connie Adams for a number of years and have the highest regard for him and his ability, I know of no other man who has done a better job of editing a paper than has H. E. Phillips. It has been an honor for me to be one of the regular writers for Searching The Scriptures.

J. T. Smith

In the fall of 1956 I joined the faculty of Florida College. Shortly after this time, I became acquainted with H. E. Phillips, when he began preaching for the Forest Hills church here in Tampa. In almost no time, I began to hear people talk about the tremendous zeal and enthusiasm of Brother Phillips. I know of no man who is more completely active in the work of the Lord.

Brother Phillips' work with Searching The Scriptures has accomplished inestimable good. To myfamily, personally, Brother Phillips has been a true friend in time of great need.

E. V. Srygley, Jr.

In November, 1959 I received a letter asking that I write for and help circulate a new paper, SearchingThe Scriptures. My first question was: Who is H. E. Phillips? As a young preacher I had not yet met the man known and loved by thousands of Christians. When I write these lines nearly fourteen years later I realize that I share with many others a true friend in

H. E. Phillips. To know him, his wife Polly, their daughters, and his mother is to love them as though they were a part of your own flesh and blood. To me, in Christ Jesus, they are closer than many related to me in the flesh.

In Searching The Scriptures Brother Phillips has provided a number of us with a medium to teach the truth. He has no time for error. I have been completely free to say whatever I have wanted to say on any Bible question without any strings attached. He would have it no other way.

In my close association with him when any question

came up about any matter, I soon learned he asked

"What is truth and right?" Nothing else ever mattered

regardless of what personal sacrifice might be

My friendship with him through these years has

convinced me that above all else he wants to go t

heaven and this desire is burning in his heart every

moment of the day. I do not believe I have known a

man who constantly talks of going to heaven like H. E.

Phillips does. It is everything to him

I look forward to working with Connie W. Adams as

the new editor of Searching The Scriptures. It is my

heart's desire and prayer to God that God will giv

Brother Phillips many more years with health that he

may continue to write in Searching The Scriptures and

preach the gospel of the Son of God to save the souls of

men. With all my heart, I love H. E. Phillips.

Thomas G. O'Neal

My acquaintance and a ociation with Brother

Phillips extends from several years before the

beginning of Searching The Scriptures. When this

paper began, I accepted with humble gratitude his

invitation to write for it dealing with questions and

answers. Under the heading "Answers For Our

Hope", I have written since the first i ue. During

these years Brother Phillips and I have worked

together in meetings, both where I preached and

where he preached. We have discussed at length the

problems of an editor, his work as such with Searching

The Scriptures, the nature of the paper, its

arrangement and design. In all this he has commanded

my highest admiration and respect. Our relationship

through the years has remained exceedingly pleasant.

In my judgment he is one of very few who possesses

outstanding editorial ability. His writings on various

i ues that have arisen, the excellent material selected

and continually presented in the paper, together with

its arrangement and style, evidence this. His

knowledge of truth, his ability to present it both orally

and in writing, his sense of loyalty to right, and his

devotion to God convince me that his services are

urgently needed. While we shall miss him as editor of

Searching The Scriptures, we hope that his health

improves and that his services in other areas will be a

ble ing to all of usfor many yearsto come.Marshall E. Patton

WHEN SILENCE IS NOT GOLDEN

Silence is not always golden. Sometimes it is cowardly. Surely, there are times when one should"hold his peace." If one has nothing to say then it is far better to remain silent. If what is said is harmful, then it ought not to be said. "A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach of thespirit" (Proverbs 15:4). One is not obligated to speak out on every subject. To speak rashly, attack positions which we do not fully understand, or impute sinister motives to others in the absence of evidence is surely to speak inadvisedly

But there are times when conviction of truth demands that we speak out in plain terms that admit of no misunderstanding. "Seeing then that we havesuch hope, we use great plainness of speech" (2 Cor. 3:12). "We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken;we also believe, and therefore speak" (2 Cor. 4:13)

Our speech pertaining to divine service must besound. "But speak thou the things which becomesound doctrine . . . sound speech, that cannot becondemned" (Titus 2:1,8). "Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and lovewhich is in Christ Jesus" (2 Tim. 1:13). "If any manspeak, let him speak as the oracles of God" (1 Peter 4:11). We draw our vocabulary from that upon which our spirit feeds. When men cannot write articles or preach sermons without cluttering what they have tosay with the theological terminology of the day, thenthis is a dead give-away that they are more conversant with what men have said about the Bible than they are with what the Bible says. Sound doctrine has its own vocabulary and that is not learned from such sources as Christianity Today, Mission, Mission Messengerand other such journals which are couched in thelanguage of denominational seminaries.

There are times when the kingdom is on fire. Surging i ues swirl about us and some know notwhich way to turn. When such times arise and storm clouds begin to gather, it is time for every faithful servant of Christ to get down The Book and decide what the truth of God is on that subject and then face up to the problem, whatever it is. Then when error begins to spread to first one congregation and thenanother, everybody with a water bucket needs to use it and help put out the flame. It will not do then to sit around and "preach the principles" or philosophize on the correct movement of the arms and body in applying the water. E ver yone who truly loves the kingdom has one objective in mind and that is to putout the fire.

During the 1950's and early 60's when the institutional virus was spreading throughout the nationand the world, there were some who said they agreed with principles of truth, but they settled themselves definitely a-stradle the fence and dangled their feet on both sides. They were above the battle and from their dignified vantage point were thus able to tell allconcerned how they really should conduct the battle. Others elected to get in the middle of the road and play in the traffic. Some languished in the valley oindecision and claimed they were "studying thi ues" when in reality they were simply stalling and trying to keep from really studying. The truth was not that hard to discover. Now we have some who are conducting post mortems and trying to say that webungled the job and that if we had manned our buckets with greater finesse, then things would have turned out better.

We are faced today with that problem and manothers besides, not the least of which is the Ketcherside unity faction which is appealing to a number of younger men and which has some admirers which are not quite so young. It is not a time for silence, butfor "sound speech." The names of some brethren, prominently known, have been linked with these views. Concerned brethren have asked questionsimploring these men to declare themselves. If they are being misrepresented or misunderstood, then what is the harm in saying so, once and for all? When writers attempt two or three times to clear the air, or set the record straight, and still leave the air fogged and the record crooked, then the reason for concern becomes all the more apparent. If brethren were using my name as the advocate of a view which is as compromising and devastating to the truth as is the Ketcherside fallacy then it would not take me long todecide to set the record straight with all deliberate speed. The sooner brethren are alerted to this risingthreat to the truth and speak out clearly, in language everyone will understand, then the sooner this false teaching and its proponents can be isolated. Then we can get on with the work at hand.

We long for unity among believers as fervently as anyone. We are for peace, but not at any price. We love our brethren and would like to see every preacher salvaged and standing in the way and asking for theold paths. But we are not going to keep silent while a corps of intellectual elites subvert whole houses and / or whole congregations by quiet maneuvers to capture the minds of the young and impressionable with doctrines of devils. It is unthinkable that men who love the truth could, like Edom of old when Judah was aflame with destruction, stand by on the other side. "In the day that thou stoodest on the other side,in the day that the strangers carried away captive his forces, and foreigners entered into his gates, and cast lots upon Jerusalem, even thou wast as one of them" (Obadiah 11). Get your bucket, brother, and help puout the fire!

"WRESTING THE SCRIPTURES"-No. 1 Ward Hogland

In II Peter 3:15-16 Peter said, "And account that the long-suffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; as also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures unto their own destruction."

I would like to key in on the word "wrest" in the next few articles. This word "wrest" from strebloo, means to twist or turn. It also conveys the idea of torture. I remember when I was a boy up in Oklahomawe would sometime load cows on a trailer. We would usually get the old cow's front legs in the trailer and then she would sull. Dad, while lugging on the ropearound her neck would say, "Son twist her tail." Well,I was the tail twister. This wasn't a very pleasant jobbut I would grab the old cow's tail and give it a hard twist. It usually got results because most of the time she would almost jump through the front of the trailer! This twisting business might work loading cows but it is a "No-no" when it comes to the scriptures. You will notice in the text, Peter said they not only twisted what Paul said but also other scriptures. A man who will pervert one scripture is not adverse to twistingothers. Please notice the result of wresting thescriptures. Peter said, it means a person's destruction! This means he will go to hell for doing such if he does not repent.

In the next few articles I will take up scriptures which have been wrested, twisted and turned to fitcertain theological doctrines. Our first study will be on1 Peter 3:20-21 which says, "Which sometime were disobedient, when once the long-suffering of Gowaited in the days of Noah, while the ark was apreparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto evebaptism doth also now save us (not the putting away ofthe filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ." When I was a "boy" preacher I would read this text on baptism and think there is no way the sectarians can answer this one! I felt that this text would leave them speechle . But I found out the hard way that a slick Baptist preacher has more quibbles on this text than Quaker has oats!

Let us first study the text. Peter tells us that Noah was saved by water, the like figure whereunto evenbaptism doth also now save us. He made a plain affirmation that baptism saves. A majority of thereligious world denies that baptism has anything to dowith salvation. E ven though this is a plain unanswerable text on the essentiality of baptism there are many ways people can "wrest" this scripture. One of the very first quibbles on this text is on the word "figure." People will affirm that Peter said we are saved by baptism only figuratively. Is this really what he said, or is this a case of twisting the scriptures? The words "like figure" from Antitupos, according to Vine means "A striking back." He goes on to say with reference to this text, "The circumstances of the flood,the ark and its occupants, formed a type, and baptism forms a corresponding type (not an antitype) each setting forth the spiritual realities of the death, burial,and resurrection of believers in their identification with Christ. It is not a case of type and antitype, but of two types, that in Genesis, the type and baptism the corresponding type." It therefore should be obvious to all that Peter did not say baptism only saves in afigure but rather that the "figure" was a comparison of the two types. Since the "figure" points both directions one might as well argue that Noah was saved figuratively as to argue that baptism saves that way.The truth of the matter is that Noah was actuallysaved by water and we are actually saved by baptism. The figure was in the comparison of the two and not in the things done! Someone might say, "yes, but can't they muddy the water for someone who hasn't really studied the text? The answer is yes indeed! This is why Peter sounded out the warning.

After you are just about worn out from explainingwhat the "figure" means the quibbler is ready for his second attack. He next says, "But Peter said baptism does not put away the filth of the flesh. Since the word filth means sin, he tells us that baptism does notremove sins." This calls for a study of the word filth. Again we go to a definition of words. The word filth is from the greek rhupos. Scholars are united that it means dirt or filth. So really there is no problem. Baptism does not merely wash dirt off your body.Actually, some translations use the word dirt. If youhave ever seen the "Mr. Dirt" commercial on TV, youwill know what it is. He is the mean fellow who carries a sack of dirt on his back and pours it in our automobile engines. Well, baptism does not wash dirt off your body but it does wash sins off the soul. "Arise and be baptized and wash away thy sins" (Acts 22:16).

Wouldn't this be a wonderful world if we had no quibbles to answer? Would it not be nice if we had no one to wrest the scriptures? Well, we might as well keep prepared because Peter says they will always be with us (II Pet. 2:1).

Box 166

Greenville, Texas 75401

Page 5

Brother Weldon Warnock raised some goodquestions in his article, "Weddings and funerals in the meetinghouse," in the Feb. 1973 i ue. It seems more brethren are becoming concerned over these practices lately. Searching the Scriptures is to be commended for allowing the question to be searched openly

It appears that three basic questions need to beconsidered as a solution is sought: (1) Are these activities a work of the local church? (2) Can church facilities be used for an individual / family need inproviding for a social / domestic affair (1 Tim. 5:8)? (Though the state of marriage is ordained of God how it is entered is not). (3) Can the church facilities beused by a citizen to comply with his civil obligations? A marriage ceremony (of some kind not necessarily religious) is required by civil law

The real issue is: where is the authority? If such practices are allowable a simple N.T. precept, example or necessary inference is all that's necessary. Positive authority is needed, not a negative "what does it violate" approach ("where does the Bible say not toplay?"). Because brethren may like it, young peopleexpect it, and churches "traditionally" practice it,doesn't make it right

In his second and last paragraphs, Brother Warnock recognizes that the church has an "authorized work" to do, and admits the building expedites such. Surely none can challenge that principle. Then it simply remains to determine what the "authorized work" is and use the facilities accordingly.

I would take exception to the statement, "The Lord never did say what could or could not be done in ameetinghouse." Jesus told us that when He revealed the "church's authorized work." Don't forget it's the work of the church that necessarily infers authorityfor a building to begin with! If the collectivity did nothave a work to do requiring a meeting-place, no reason nor right would exist for such a place. Thus the "work" and the "place" to do that work go together. Therefore the "place" exists for only one exclusive purpose— to "expedite the church's authorized work."

To speak of brethren having a "taint of Catholic attitude" in acting as though the building were "asacred shrine on holy ground" is prejudicial and serves no purpose in clarifying the i ue. All will agree the meeting place is not sacred as was Solomon's temple.But still there is a principle of "sanctification" (a setting apart) involved. Is the Lord's treasury not "set apart" to be used as He wills? Likewise are not those items purchased with those Divine funds "set apart" for the special use as the N.T. directs? Is it po ible to be guilty of profaning such items by using them in a "common way" (Heb. 12:16)?

To compare weddings with "socializing" before and after services isn't parallel. If a special social hour were scheduled and all invited to come for that purpose we'd be comparing thingsof like nature. This argument is somewhat like the liberals reply, "yohave a water fountain in the building," when we objectto their kitchens and dining rooms. If a "socializing meeting were called, Brother Warnock would have a parallel argument; just as our liberal kitchen-banqueting brethren would have, if we were to announce a special meeting around the water cooler. But in both cases we're talking about individual doings which are incidental in using the building

As brethren assemble, greetings are proper. Comments beyond that which is spiritually edifyingwould be a matter for the individual to regulate.Personally I try to refrain from secular socializing, andkeep in mind the purpose for which we've assembled. Granted this isn't always easy. If this area needs more emphasis we should attend to it. But the point is aspecial service hasn't been called for "social visiting" as for a wedding.

I don't know of any churches or elders inviting the public to freely use the parking lot for the neighborhood children to turn the premises into a play lotIf someone came to the elders requesting such use,they ought to explain the lot wasn't designed for such purposes and suggest the inquirer look elsewhere. If a brother requested his. family use the parking lot for games to facilitate his son's birthday party, I believe that would be more parallel torequesting use of the church building for a weddingWouldn't we expect the elders to deny such a request?

Of course how these questions are answered regarding socializing and using the parking lot doesn't really meet the i ue of using the building for weddings and funerals. First tackle this pri mary i ue itself. Then if these other matters need attention for consistency and truth's sake, work atsolving them. But keep in mind the right or wrong of"weddings" in the meetinghouse isn't answered bwhat incidentally takes place by non-members on the parking lotLiberal brethren have argued to justify their secular schools and kindergartens in the building othe grounds that it stands idle so many hours eachweek. Our failure to utilize the facilities more fullydoesn't Scripturally justify opening the door forunauthorized works. I agree we should use the building more for "special classes ... (etc.) that comes within the church's mission" (Emphasis mine-RW).Brother Warnock's concluding words, as his beginning(2nd) paragraph, knocks weddings and funerals out of the building— unless Scriptural proof can be given that such are within the church's Mission. 3304 Thornwood Drive Pasadena, Tex. 77503

CAN'T THE BAPTISTS READ?

A newspaper report date-lined Atlanta, May 3,

1973 says:

"A precedent was set for the American Baptist

Churches of the South when Mrs. Lula E. Allgood and

Mrs. Barbara H. Myles were ordained as deacons in

the Gillfield Baptist Church, Petersburg, Virginia.

"Dr. E. B. Hicks, Atlanta, regional executive

minister, said today, 'To my knowledge, this is the

first ordination of women by American Baptists in the

South and we are quite pleased with this new

direction.' "

Dr. Hicks and the Baptists may be pleased with this

new practice, but what about the Lord? Did they even

think to consult his teaching in the matter? I have a

feeling that he is as pleased with the new doctrine as

he is with the Baptist Church in the first place!

Can the Baptists not read and understand plainEnglish language? Or is it that they just don't believe the Bible? The Bible says, "Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well" (1 Tim. 3:12). Those Baptists have reversed that verse just like they have Mark 16:16.That verse says "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved ..." They have always read it, "He that believeth and is saved shall be baptized." Now they have read 1 Timothy 3:12, "Let the deacons be the wives of one husband, ruling their children and their own houses well."

Dr. Grady W. Powell of the Gillfield Church justified the new practice with this statement: "We have come a long way in beginning to see that all persons are creatures of God, and that God is no respecter ofpersons."

What a perversion of truth! Certainly God is norespecter of persons in that He loves all, Christ died for all, all are saved the same way, etc., but this does not mean that He makes no distinction between the sexes or the duties and responsibilities of husbands and wives. Powell's application of that true principle is ridiculous! When Paul said, "Let your women keepsilence in the churches," or "Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord," or "but I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man ..." someone should have reminded him that women are creatures of God.

Anyone with an ounce of common sense and respect for the word of God should know the difference between a husband and a wife and that women cannot serve as deacons.

"PROPHETS OF DOOMSDAY"

A community of people (about 130 at present) near Stelle, Illinois, known as "the Stelle Group" or "Airage Noahs" have formed a new religious movement. Led by "chief prophet" Richard Keininger, theybelieve the world will end on May 5, 2000, and that they alone will be saved. At that time they say that everything on earth will be destroyed by volcanoes, gases, hurricane winds and a wall of water a thousand feet high will "roar across the submerging lands and sweep away everything before them." (St. Louis Globe-Democrat, April 15,1973) And what will happen to the "Stelle Group" (which they hope will number 500,000 by that time)? It's simple; they plan to spend two weeks at an altitude of 14 miles above the earth in special planes they will build "while the earth goes through its convulsions." They will then come backand "usher in the Golden Age of the Kingdom of God." Keininger's belief includes a devotion to the concept of reincarnation. He thinks that in the past he has beenKing David of Israel and Pharaoh Akenaton, and that his wife, Gail, was at times in the past Bathsheba and Nefertiti. You can see already that he has some problems. He probably believes that he could fly 14miles high— without a plane!

Mr. Keininger knows about as much about the future as William Miller, Billy Graham, Herbert Armstrong and Pat Boone, men who have also predicted the time of the coming of Christ and the end of the age. They know absolutely nothing! (Matt. 24:36)

MR. HOLY SPIRIT

In September of 1972, Oral Roberts was given the title of "The First Academic Professor of The Lord Rank Chair of The Holy Spirit." It is a wonder that they did not end the ceremony by adding, "and on the seventh day he rested." He was also referred to as "the greatest authority on the Holy Spirit on earth." I would say that he knows about as little about the Holy Spirit as any man on earth. In his book "The Baptism With The Holy Spirit" (pages 9 and 10) he declares that he received the baptism of the Holy Spirit in 1935 and did not know it until 1947 when God reminded him in a vision. From reading the Bible I understand that when the apostles and Cornelius and his household received the baptism of the Holy Spirit (the only ones ever to receive such) they and all of those present knew it. When a man says that he received the Holy Spirit and did not know it, that is proof of two things: he did not receive the Spirit and knows nothing about him.

"JUDGE NOT'

A lesson which I presented on a recent radio program was offensive to one listener. When he called to discuss the subject with me, he began by reminding me that the Bible says "Judge not that ye "be notjudged." How many times have I heard that. When one has been rebuked for his error, this is usually his first line of defense. When such people quote thatverse to me, you know what I say? I say: If that verse means what you have implied, you have just violated it yourself! They condemn and criticize me for criticizing others. They try to convince me that it is wrong tocriticize while they are criticizing me! They understand Matthew 7:1 to mean that it is wrong to say that others are wrong, but they use it to tell me that I am wrong in saying that others are wrong.

Matthew 7:1 forbids only hypocritical judgment—the act of condemning another while you are guilty of a greater sin. It does not prohibit reproving andrebuking (2 Tim. 4:2), measuring one by the fruit he bears (Matt. 7:20), or trying the spirits (doctrines) to see whether they are of God (1 John 4:1). Let us not forget that Jesus also said, "Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment." (John 7:24)

EDUCATORS AMONG BRETHREN SPEAK Thomas G. O'Neal

In our last article in this series, a number of quotations were given from leading scholars amongthe denominational world concerning the subject of music. Their testimony was that in New Testament times the church did not use instrumental music with such coming into use after the close of the NewTestament era.

Over one hundred years ago, the winds of changebegan to blow among those seeking to r eturn to primitive New Testament doctrine and practice. First, in 1849 the American Christian Mi ionary Societywas formed, and then ten years later, in 1869, instrumental music was introduced among the people of God. In time other changes from the apostolic order were made, with all of these changes resulting in whattoday is known as the Christian Church.

To visit the "shrines" claimed by the Christian Church denomination today is to see the names of such men as Alexander Campbell, J. W. McGarvey anothers almost venerated. It is interesting to hear what such men said about the instrument of music in the worship of God.

(1) Alexander Campbell, founder and first president of Bethany College, said, "The argument drawn from the Psalms in favor of instrumental music is exceedingly opposite to the Roman Catholic, English Protestant, and Scotch Presbyterian Churches, andeven to the Methodist communities. Their churches have all the world in them— that is, all the fleshly progeny of all the communicants; and being foundeon the Jewish pattern of things— baptism being givento all born into the world of these politico-ecclesiastic communities— I wonder not, then, that an organ, afiddle, or a Jew's harp, should be requisite to stir utheir carnal hearts, and work into ecstasy their animal souls, else hosannas languish on their tongues, andtheir devotions die.*** And that all persons who have no spiritual discernment, taste, or relish for their spiritual meditations, consolations, and sympathies of renewed hearts, should call for such aids is but natural.*** so to those who have no real devotion or spirituality in them, and whose animal nature flags under the oppression of church service, I think thatinstrumental music would be not only a desideratum, but an essential prerequisite to fire up their souls to even animal devotion. But I presume, to all spiritually-minded Christians such aids would be as a cow bell in a concert." (Millennial Harbinger, 1851, page 581)

(2) H. L. Calhoun, who also was later a president of Bethany College, said, "It will be admitted that theNew Testament nowhere mentions the use of an instrument in connection with the singing in the church. This fact settles, beyond all dispute, that the use of an instrument in connection with the singing in thchurch cannot be an act of acceptable worship; for itfails to fulfill one of the essential conditions of an act of acceptable worship, and that condition which it fails to fulfill is the thing that differentiates an act of acceptable worship from an act which is not acceptable.Worship by means of instruments today is not intruth, and, therefore, cannot be such as God seeks or accepts." (Boswell-Hardeman Discussion, page 38) (3) J. W. McGarvey, who was president of the College of the Bible in Lexington, Ky., said, "Any manwho says that the apostle teaches the use of instrumental music in the church by enjoining thesinging of songs is one who smatters in Greek who can believe anything he wants to believe. .. . No scholar has ever taken the position that in singing the songs the use of instrumental music inheres. It would be just as easy to say that the Greek word 'baptizo' means to sprinkle or to pour as to say that 'psallo' means an accompaniment by a musical instrument. Not only so; it is universally admitted by those that are competentto judge that there is not the slightest indication in the New Testament of divine authority for the use of instrumental music in the worship." (Boswell-Hardeman Discussion, page 83)

Going Along

While these men speak clearly as to the instrument, Brother J. W. McGarvey says something else that should be a le on for our generation. In 1902, Brother McGarvey said to Brother J. P. Sewell, "You are onthe right road, and whatever you do don't let anybody persuade you that you can successfully combat error by fellowshipping it and going along with it. I havtried. I believed at the start that was the only way todo it. I've never held membership in a congregationthat uses instrumental music. I have, however, accepted invitations to preach without distinctions between churches that used it and churches that didn't. I've gone along with their papers andmagazines and things of that sort. During all these years I have taught the truth as the New Testament teaches to every young preacher who has passedthrough the College of the Bible. Yet, I do not know of more than six of those men who are preaching thtruth today. It won't work." (from BiographicalSketches of Restoration Preachers in a lecture by J. P. Sewell.

These preachers of the Restoration Era thoughenough of the unscripturalness of instrumental music in worship to state such in clear terms. Now those in the church wanting to have "unity in diversity" with the Christian Church should note what these men, whom they quote so much on other questions, had tosay about the instrument.

The use of instrumental music in worship can not bejustified either by the New T estament or from thescholarship of the world.

In the beginning, as a crowning act of God's great creation, man was made and placed in the Garden ofEden. There, in Paradise, "God saw that it was notgood for man to be alone," so from man's side He,removed a bone from which He formed woman. Hence, woman was made for man, and for him she has ever existed— not man's ruler, not man's slave, but man'companion— a wife for him, a mother for his children. Since this has been the purpose of her creation, thLord has said, "For this cause shall a man leave father and mother and shall cleave unto his wife, and theytwo shall be one flesh."

The closest tie that exists in this life is that which binds a man and a woman as husband and wife. The love Christ has for His church is compared to the love of the husband for his wife. The tie is close and the relationship beautiful. Home is meant to be a pleasant place, and it can be, indeed. The pleasure is there when there is the proper love for each other, and the proper recognition and fulfilment of responsibility.Instruction is given by the Lord Himself in thematters related to the home, and we know that His counsel is good. Ignorance is inexcusable. Failure to comply with His will is rebellion.

Failures in the homes lead to problems in thechurch, the community, and in the nation, but God-fearing parents are builders of good citizenship. Theybring children up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord so the church is thus strengthened and caused to grow. What can mean more to a nation than the holyinfluences that flow from godly homes? Let all peoplewho pray thank God for every marriage that unites two faithful and zealous Christians who truly love each other, and who are determined to comply with thdivine counsel as to the duties of home builders. Let these same praying people petition the Father for His special ble ings on their worthy efforts. A great thinghas happened when two of the best people are united in holy matrimony.

The first miracle of the personal ministry of Christ was performed at a marriage feast. He, by that act,stamped His approval upon marriage and the homthus formed. No doubt is left concerning heaven'sapproval of marriage. The written word says marriageis honorable in all. "Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favor of the Lord" (Prov.

18:22). In stating His desires for the best overseers for His church, He suggested men with wives and faithful children. The man with a good family is a stronger man. The requirement for bachelor bishops is a relic from the Dark Ages. The celibate state is not moreholy.

The divine will, revealed by the apostle, is that "younger women marry, bear children, guide thhouse, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully" (1 Tim. 5:14).

No woman has a richer life than the sober, discreet,and chaste keeper of the home who loves her Christian husband and her children who are a heritage of thLord. Any movement to thrust woman into man'splace is not liberation. It is robbery, taking her God-given position from her. Such movements are of thedevil. The home is a precious thing of beauty as God planned it, but is destroyed if there is no keeper. God knows what is best. Woman out of her place loses the respect she would have as wife and mother, rockingthe cradle and thus ruling the world. Why should man tip his hat to the woman who has deliberately forsaken her important responsibilities, and has copied his vices?

Marriage marks the beginning of a new family, andthe art of home making is a matter of skill. It is not for the inexperienced and the unconcerned. Important accomplishments of all kinds require thought, effort, patience, and skill. Two who have been taught the will of God relative to the duties of husbands and wives,and who are determined to follow His teaching in lovecan build a beautiful home that will be a joy to all whobehold it. Their happy marriage will be more precious to them than a successful career, the accumulation of money, or the acclaim of the crowd.

It is the lifting of weights that builds muscles. It is the facing of life's problems together that binds two loving hearts. Problems will come. One would be naive to suppose that there will be no difficulties to face in life, and no problems to solve. Marriage is recommended by the great and loving Creator, but He has not suggested that this is the end of all problems. Health problems and money problems may come, anhearts may break at times from sad experiences. The man who lives as one who isin the image of God knows he isto earn his bread by the sweat of his face. He does not expect others to meet his needs, nor to provide constant tranquility in a bed of roses. He knows that sickness or age will cut down his strength sometime. He knows that his wife will not remove these realities,but he expects her to be a worthy helper in meetingthem all.

A happy home is not the result of one person's deeds. It comes from mutual effort and mutual goodbehavior. Each makes a contribution to the good of thehome and each receives a ble ing. The two are joinedin the" sight of God, not only to remain married, but tobless and complement each other as they work together.

Thomas H. Icard--P.O. Box 173, Wellsburg, West Virginia— The church in Wellsburg, West Virginienjoyed a good meeting with Connie Adams in April. There were three responses to the invitation duringthe meeting. The attendance from the local area was high along with the membership strongly supportingthe meeting. Three gospel meetings in the area were in progress at the same time in conservative congregations.

Jimmy Tuten— 745 Southeast Ave., Tallmadge,Ohio 44278— T hrough the medium of this fine periodical, I want to thank the numerous brethren and friends for the many expressions of concern during my recent illne . I could not begin to acknowledge individually the phone calls, letters, and host of cards received. Your deep interest and concern is greatly appreciated. One does not know how many friends one has until he gets in a situation like the one I have been in for the past four months. I use this method ofsaying, "thank you."

So many have wanted to know the nature of mcondition. As a result of over-work and exhaustion, Ientered the hospital December 30.1 was released after six weeks. During this time I made little if anyprogress. After being home 16 days, I entered another hospital under another physician. T his time I remained hospitalized almost four weeks. During thistime, pneumonia set in, and also a bladder infection. After I was in a coma for some time, doctors gave melittle hope to live. With the help of God, and theprayers of faithful saints, I pulled through. I am now athome, and doing my work on a very limited basis. At the present I am only preaching Sunday mornings and teaching Wednesday night cla . I will resume other responsibilities according to doctor's direction. I appreciate your continued interest in my conditionContinue to pray for me.

Preacher Needed: Wauchula, Florida. Self-supporting congregation seeks full-time man to work with them beginning late June or early July. Aboveaverage salary, new building and new preacher's home. If interested, contact O. Wayne Cobia, 21South Florida Avenue, Wauchula, Florida 33873.Phone (813) 773-9678.

Mound and Starr Church Offers Preachers TrainingSchool— The elders of the Mound and Starr church in Nacogdoches, Texas have announced that beginning inSeptember, 1973, they will offer special training courses for preachers. They will use their ownfacilities and have arranged for Roy E. Cogdill anJames W. Adams to teach some of these courses, alongwith the two local men working with that church -W.

R. Jones and Harold Tabor. No college credit will be given for this work. For several years, this congregation has supported fully a teacher of the Bible for students attending Stephen F. Austin State University at Nacogdoches. The University gavecredit for these courses which were general in nature and not designed particularly to prepare men to teach and preach. The brethren especially have in minhelping those men who have ability to preach but who have neither the time nor money to enroll in collegefor several years. No restrictions are placed as to who may enroll, except that each student will be required to be circumspect in his manner of life both morallyand spiritually. He will be expected to be a serious student with a sincere desire to learn how to serve God better. This work in all its phases will be under the direct supervision of the elders of the Mound and Starr congregation as are all of the activities of this church. Interested people should address inquiries to: Elders, Mound and Starr Church of Christ, P.O. Box 35, Nacogdoches, Texas 75961. Telephone (713) 5647286. __________

Preacher Needed: South West Church of Christ,1633 Jefferson Ave., S.W. Birmingham, Alabam35211. We are in need of a full time preacher at the South West congregation. Anyone interested please contact: Lee Roy Sledge, 1008 15th Way S.W., Birmingham, Alabama 35211. Phone (205) 786-3624 or

(205) 780-3241.

Preacher Needed: The West Bradenton, Florida Church of Christ, 1619 10th Ave., West in Bradenton,Florida will soon be in need of a full time gospel preacher. If interested, contact Albert Kipp, 2406 26thSt., W., Bradenton, Florida 33505. Phone :813) 7461652. '

Paul Foutz Passes

Paul Foutz was born in Childress, Texas on December 4, 1909, and died in Houston on April 51973, at the age of 63. He suffered a severe stroke onDecember 2, 1972, and was in a coma for nearly 1weeks before he passed away

He is survived by his wife, Ellen, one son and two daughters, his mother, one brother, and one sister.

A brief service was held on Monday morning, April 9, in Houston. A.A. McInroe of Dallas, Ralph Williams (a son-in-law) and I spoke at the service and atRestland Cemetery, where he was buried.

Paul had preached the gospel for nearly forty years,and had done local work in Morton, Sweetwater,Arlington, Fort Worth, Odessa, Midland, and Bellaire in Houston (all in Texas), in Carlsbad, New Mexico andin Chicago, Illinois.

— Roy L. Foutz

A. C Hubbard Passes

A. C. (Cleo) Hubbard, well known Arkansas preacher, died April 14, 1973 at Grubbs, Arkansas at the age of 87. He was well known and loved by many in Arkansas and surrounding states. He was a personal friend and co-worker with such men as Joe H. Blue,George Howard, J. D. Tant, W. Curtis Porter, J. Will Henley and A. H. Porterfield. Cleo Hubbard baptized hundreds and helped to start congregations all over northeastern Arkansas.

— Guthrie D. Dean

Florida College Offers Special Summer Courses—

August 13-25

I. "An Introduction to the Sociology and History of American Religion" by Ed Harrell, Ph.D. (3 hours credit or audit— 3 clock hours daily for 12 days)

Some aspects of the course:

"Sociological Types of Religious Bodies" "Sociological Patterns of Religious Change" "Puritanism and Colonial Religion" "Evangelical Religion in the Nineteenth Century" "The Fundamentalist-Modernist Controversy" "The Restoration Movement" "Survey of Modern Religious Thought"

II. "Brotherhood Liberalism: Its Foundations, Faiths and Fruits" by Cecil Willis, M.A. (2 hours credit or audit— 2 clock hours daily for 12 days)

Some aspects of the course:

"Intellectualism"— includes a look at Evolution and Modernism "Relativism"— a consideration of Situation Ethics and the New Morality"No Patternism"— a brief study of Anti-Legalism and Antinomianism "Ecumenism"— brotherhood and the fellowship question"Materialism"— with some consideration of the Social Gospel"Disestablishmentarianism"— gives attention to pros and cons of "organized religion" "Pentecostalism"—tongues and other alleged miracles Cost: $125 (3 credit hours) or $90 (audit). You can stay on campus the entire time for $27.50. Meals available nearby at nominal rates. Interested persons should contact Roland H. Lewis, Registrar, Florida College, Temple Terrace, Florida 33617.

Rejoice— Bernard Bolton reports 175 baptized inIndia during his trip in March. These are worshipping in 19 congregations. Wallace Little, Frank Butler and Jady Copeland report 141 baptisms in their work in the Philippines in April.

In New Building— T he Spring and Blainecongregation in St. Louis, Missouri has sold its building and met in it the last time on May 6, 1973. New property has been bought at the corner of Weber Road and Valcour Avenue in the Affton district. Preliminary plans for a new building have been approved by the congregation, and construction is expected to begin during the summer. Until completion of the new building the church will be meeting in the Mesnier School, across the street from the new property. It can be reached by out-of-town visitors by taking Laclede Station Rd. from Highway 66 south to Weber Rd.

The Spring and Blaine church began in 1914 and the building was built in the early twenties. The present elders are: F. E. Sewell (since 1937), E. W. Paxson and Granvil B. Sewell (1953), and L. L. Link (1971). The preacher is Gordon Wilson (1970). The mailing address of the church, beginning immediately, is: 6939 Weber Rd., St. Louis, Mo. 63123. The congregation will beofficially known as the Affton Church of Christ (formerly Spring and Blaine).

Frank Thompson-934 W. Micheltorena, Santa Barbara, California 93101— I recently held a meeting for the church in Tularosa, New Mexico. While there they informed me of their desire to locate a preacher to work with them. The church is small and the men there have been doing the preaching for several years. However, they believe much more could be accomplished with a full-time man. Anyone interested can contact Ivan Andrews, 1119 Cuba Ave.,Alamogordo, New Mexico 88310. Phone (505) 4372603.

CHILDREN IN SUBJECTION

The word of God in 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 sets forth qualifications for those who are selected andappointed to the eldership. Among these qualifications are: l Tim. 3:4, "One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity .. ."; and Titus 1:6,"... having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly."

I feel that these are among the most significant passages bearing on child raising. If a man does not have his own children in subjection then brethren should mark it down that he does not know how to take care of God's church (1 Tim. 3:5).

Here are a few areas in which we can see the reasonableness and wisdom of this qualification:

1. Raising children gives one experience withpeople: How are elders going to effectively counsel the flock among them on child raising if they've never experienced the problems associated with such. A man

is not likely to realize the real impact and significance of some statements in God's word if he has not found r eason to apply them to himself. Neither ar e people prone to listen to advice if it comes from one who does not have first-hand knowledge.

Children are people. Parents sometimes tend toforget that. T hey soon become individuals in their own right. Opportunities we have today and decisions wemake today will count for something, good or bad, inthe development of our boys and girls. Too many parents are just sitting back and watching their children grow up.

2. Raising children gives one experience with meditation - reflection - planning: Qualities that insure these actions are specified in the above cited lists of qualifications: soberness, vigilance, graveness. There's no greater training ground for these than thefamily.

What parent has not reflected until the late hours on how to best handle a problem or whether he has dealt with it as he should?

Par ents soon lear n that childr en will f or give or overlook their mistakes if they know you are doingyour best. If they feel that you're not really sincere, you could buy them the moon and not buy their respect. That's true in the elder-flock relationship too.

3. Raising children gives one experience with leadership-authority: An elder is to rule. He is delegated authority to feed and tend the church.

Matt. 8:9,10 presents an interesting lesson onauthority. The Centurion was under authority and inauthority. This is true of a father and of an elder. Neither can rule well except he be submissive to theauthority of his Father in Heaven.

4. Raising Children gives one experience with discipline-counsel: Elders must take the lead here. Where do they get the training for such? Eph. 6:4 provides the answer.

T he man who lets the world glide by and hischildren grow up without correction and guidance has not passed the test that God requires. He hasn't obtained the OJT (on the job training) that's demanded for the job.

About 120 years ago two conflicting approaches to the word of God developed in the ranks of the "Restoration Movement." One of these demanded authority for all that was practiced religiously, andcame to be known as the churches of Christ (see 2 Jn. 9, 1 Cor. 4:6, Gal. 1:8, Hos. 5:11, etc.). The other felt such authority was unnecessary, and instead followed the course of asking, "Where does the Bible say wecan't do it this way?" (This ar gument is answer ed byLev. 10:1-2, Heb. 7:14, etc.). This latter movement developed into what is known as the Christian Church today.

How far did their lack of respect for the authority of God's word take them? Let us just note a few examples taken from the Newport Daily Independent,Apr. 16, 1973:

(1) "Maundy Thursday Communion Service at theFirst Christian Church begins at 7:30 p.m." No doubtthis is an attempt to copy the last supper Christ had with the disciples before he was betrayed. However, anyone with any knowledge of early church history, as well as Acts 20:7, recognizes the early church partook of the Lord's Supper on the first day of the week, and not on Thursday night. There is no authority norexample of regular Thursday night communion in thewor d of God. (2) "The Christian Church annual Easter Egg Huntwill be held at the High School baseball field at 2 p.m. In case of rain it will be held at the church." Again, by going to the word of God, we find Paul expressly forbidding the setting aside of special days, such as Easter and Christmas (Gal. 4:10-11). Nor is there any authority at all for the church to be involved withEaster Egg Hunts or for the building which was built for spiritual purposes with God's money to be used for such r ecr eational pur suits. (3) "The congregation of the First Christian Church will gather after church for a potluck supper in thefellowship hall in obser vance of Woman's Day. T his will give members opportunity to visit with guest speaker, Mrs. Joy Greer, president of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Arkansas." (1)"Fellowship" in the N.T. did not refer to coffee and donuts, nor to the eating of meals, but to spiritualwork and worship together in the cause of Christ (Acts 2:42, Phil. 4:15). (2) N.T. churches knew nothing of a "Fellowship Hall" in the church building as a place for recreation and eating of meals (see 1 Cor. 11:22,34). (3)

N.T. churches refused to set aside special days, such as Woman's Day (see Gal. 4:10-11). (4) N.T. churches refused to recognize the practice of appointing women to be "guest speaker s" or President of the chur ch in any sense (see 1 Tim. 2:11-12). (5) N.T. churches were local, self-governing groups, under the oversight of elders, assisted by the deacons (Acts 14:23, 20:28,Phil. 1:1, 1 Pet. 5:2, etc.). There was no such thing as either a state-wide organization nor the office of a president to be filled (by men or women). Such arrangements did not develop until the church began to move down the path towar d Catholicism.

A dangerous attitude toward the word of Godbrought all this about. There are many more differences between the churches of Christ and the Christian Churches than just the instrument (merely an external symbol of the apostacy already begun due to conflicting attitudes toward the word of God). Many today would do well to pause and observe the facts of history before launching out on a similar course as that launched 120 year s ago!

P.O. Box 83 T uckerman, Ar k. 72473