MEDLEY OF MATTERS

Regular Articles For SearchingThe Scriptures

There seems to be less time now to do what has to be done in the Lord's work and in the other responsibilitiesof life than a few years ago. I suppose the accumulationof years in one's life and the crucible demands of the present times combine to explain the situation. At leastI shall use that excuse for the present.

Brother Connie Adams has asked me to write more regularly for Searching The Scriptures, and I have promised to do so. I should have been doing this for along time without having to be "urged" repeatedly todo so. In fact, there are several things that must be saidto arouse greater interest in "searching the scriptures"daily to "Prove all things; hold that which is good" (1Thess. 5:21), and to expose false doctrine and practice.This is the reason this religious paper exists, and it isthe objective of every writer.

My Meeting Work

I have had a greater number of meetings this yearthan I have had in any one year in the previous fifteen years. More meetings are being scheduled for the nextthree to five years. In addition, plans are being made toreturn to Italy and parts of Europe next year to preachthe gospel and encourage the faithful brethren there. Iwant to do all the good I can in the remaining years ofmy life. As long as God grants me health and opens thedoor of opportunity I shall do the work of an evangelist with singleness of heart. At this writing I am engaged in a good meeting with the Brown Street church inAkron, Ohio where brother Weldon Warnock is the faithful and effective evangelist.

My State of Health

I have received a large number of letters during the past four months inquiring about my health. I believe Iam in better condition in every way than I have been inseveral years. The physical difficulties discovered lastMarch have been normalized by medical treatment andproper diet and right care of myself so far. I am verygrateful for the many prayers on my behalf and for themany cards and letters I have received. No words canexpress my gratitude to you for these expressions oflove and concern. I continually thank Almighty God forHis great and good gifts day by day.

Reply to James W. Adams

I shall reply soon to the editorial in the August issue of The Gospel Guardian by brother James W. Adams.The divorce and remarriage issue is becoming more andmore a problem with which churches must deal. This issue has been pressed upon brethren both by openchallenges for public debates and by public sanctionand acceptance of adulterous marriages until the issuehad to be met with the word of God.

Because of the compromising attitude toward the consequences of these adulterous marriages upon thechurch and others, congregations are having internaltroubles and even dividing. The responsibility for thiscondition must be laid at the door of those who teach that the "divorced" person as well as the one who "putaway" their spouse may remarry, repent of their adultery, keep their second spouse and all is well withGod. I do not believe it! It is contrary to sound doctrine! But those who teach and sanction this sinful relationship in the church are encouraging adulteryamong members of the church which faithful elders andbrethren cannot scripturally tolerate. The teachers whoallow this situation to develop unchallenged by theirpermissive attitudes must bear the guilt for the problem among brethren.

Sin Is Sin

The very nature of sin is an abomination unto God inany form and to any degree. Somehow most of us catalog sin into classes that make some acceptable andothers intolerable. Sin necessarily implies law. Without law there is no sin (Rom. 4:15). The perfect law ofliberty (Jas. 1:25; 2:12), is unchangeable (Gal. 1:6-12)and will equip a man unto every good work (2 Tim.3:16,17).

There is no middle ground between sin and righteousness. One is either a sinner or he is a servantof righteousness (Rom. 6:16, 17). Jesus said you are either with me or against me (Matt. 12:30). Sin is transgression of the law of the Lord—the word of God (1 John 3:4). Sin is knowing to do good and not doing it (Jas. 4:17). Of course, good is that which is ordainedby God (Eph. 2:10). Sin is all unrighteousness (1John 5:17). It is simply all things that oppose the willof Christ. All that we do is to be done in the name of Christ (Col. 3:17). Sin is anything that is not done fromgenuine conviction based upon the word of God (Rom.14:23).

We do not minimize sin by saying or even thinking:"Everyone is doing it." Neither do we make a sinful word or deed righteous by claiming it to be "the lesserof two evils." Sin is sin; evil is evil. If we expect to besaved from the horrible consequences of sin in eternity,we must recognize sin for what it is and obey the truth by which our souls are purified (1 Peter 1:22). Thistruth is the word of God that lives and abides forever (1Peter 1:23).

HOW MUCH MORE WILL THEY TAKE?

We have often wondered just how far the leaders ofthe liberal cause among churches of Christ will have togo before some of the members who say they stillrespect the Bible, will decide to "come out from amongthem" and take their stand with congregations whichare standing for the truth. Some of the changes fromthe old paths have been so subtle and gradual thatmany have accepted them without much resistance oreven forethought. But the changes coming now are nolonger gradual and they are far from subtle. It is not amatter of some departing them the faith "someday."The evidence is clear that many have already departedand that "someday" is NOW. Consider the following cases.

Ira North and the Inter-Faith Project

Ira North, editor of the Gospel Advocate, and preacher at the large Madison, Tennessee congregationis pictured in the Nashville Banner in June of this yearalong with a Catholic priest and a Jewish rabbi as theytogether inspected an interfaith project in Dallas.Several religious leaders from Nashville were chosen bythe mayor of that city to study and make recommendations for a similar project for Nashvilleto coincide with Nashville's bicentennial. The press hasrepeatedly referred to this as an "inter-faith project."This has brought brother North under considerable firein Nashville and from across the country. In an editorial in the Gospel Advocate dated August10, 1978, he said it was being reported that "we are leading in an effort to establish an inter-faith institution in Nashville. Nothing could be further from the truth."

Well, call it "institution" or "project", the press andthe reading public of Nashville think Ira North is aleader in this effort to establish some sort of a religiousmonument which will be acceptable to people of allfaiths in Nashville. He is co-chairman of the project. Ifit is not a religious project (as Colly Caldwell so well putit in his August 28, 1978 bulletin), why is Ira North involved as a "religious leader"? If it is not a religiousactivity, why did he need and seek the approval of theMadison elders, which he said he did?

If the teaching of 2 Cor. 6:14-18 does not apply inthis case, it would be hard to find one where said passage does apply. "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hathrighteousness with unrighteousness, and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of theliving God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, andwalk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall bemy people. Wherefore come out from among them andbe ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing, and I will receive you . . ."

When Sanballat, Tobiah and Geshem sent word to Nehemiah for him to "Come let us meet together insome one of the villages in the plain of Ono" (Neh. 6:2),Nehemiah would not leave the Lord's work to meet with these compromisers and ecumenical strategists of his day, but Ira North did go down to Dallas with modern-day Sanballats, Tobiahs and Geshems and even had hispicture made with them. Do you suppose Paul would have considered some sort of inter-faith shrine on Mars Hill? He might have been a lot better received had hedone so! Brother North's associate editor, Guy N. Woods, has had so many debates with the likes of brother North's companions in this project, that noneof them would have felt very comfortable having himalong. And by the way, we would certainly beinterested to hear what brother Woods has to say thesedays about such goings on. We know very well what hehas said in the past.

Cross Roads Church Buys Fanning Springs

A headline in the Gainesville, Florida daily paper back in July read "Cross Roads Church of Christ of Gainesville Buys Fanning Springs." The article states:"Fanning Springs and some 140 acres have been purchased by the Cross Roads Church of Christ, Inc.,of Gainesville. . . . The church plans to have the property and springs open to the public most of thetime but also has plans for using it as a gathering place for church groups. Plans call for construction ofcampgrounds, small camping cottages, a concessionstand at the springs and a three-fold convention building which can be used as a cafeteria, a meetingcenter and a gymnasium. They also have plans for renovating the old motel on the grounds and it is understood the offices of the Tri-County Senior Citizens Association will be moved from the motel to the old Chiefland Restaurant site on Main Street in downtown Chiefland."

May we ask what business a church has with suchfacilities unless it is committed to the social gospel,lock, stock and barrel? Where is the scriptural authority for a congregation to so use its funds? Interestingly, a few months ago I sat beside a woman ona plane headed for Florida who told me she had visitedCross Roads several times with friends, but then commented "They are just too liberal for me." Oh, bythe way, that woman is a Baptist!

13 Church Supported Hospitals

There is a project called Medical Outreach, Inc.which operates under the oversight of the Scott Blvd.

congregation in Decatur, Georgia. In a recent letter sent out by them appealing for funds they said: "The best estimates that we can gather tell us that there areabout 13 hospitals or clinics operated by churches ofChrist in various mission areas around the world. At this writing 5 of them have doctors or nurses. Theyhave to limp along with stop-gap staffing . . . waitingfor medical missionaries that seem to never arrive. . . . "Medical Outreach is a program under the oversightof the elders of the Decatur church of Christ. It is made up of a group of Christians who have determined that steps can and should be taken to:

1. maintain the commitment of our medical missionaries in training, and2. facilitate more involvement practicing

of	our
physicians			in	world	outreach

through medicine."

There is no difference in church operated and financed clinics and hospitals in this country and inother countries. If it is right to support, from thechurch treasury, doctors and nurses 10,000 miles fromhome, then the same thing would be right in thiscountry. These are called "medical missionaries" whichmeans that the end sought is evangelistic while themeans to that end is medical care. This was the basic philosophy which prompted huge give away programsof rice in Japan and pasta in Italy after World War II.None of this converted a soul to Christ. Only the gospelhas the power to do that (Rom. 1:16). While it is to beexpected of Christians everywhere that they are to beconcerned with the plight of the needy about them,physical relief must not become the means to the endsought. This is the same rationale for churches spending huge outlays of money for camp sites,fellowship halls, gymnasiums and things of like nature.We have heard brethren say, "we will not tolerate thechurch putting the schools in the budget." Well, manywho have said that in the past are yet in churches whichnow have schools in the budget. Some have said "I believe it is unscriptural for congregations to build andmaintain hospitals and I will not tolerate it." But there are at least 13 such operations now, and several retirement centers owned and operated by churches ofChrist, and the tolerance level seems to be gettinghigher all the time.

Those Million Dollar Collections

The latest fad among some of the larger congregationsnow is to have a drive to reach over one million dollars in contributions on a single Sunday. At least three churches have made it and one barely missed. In each case these churches are involved in huge buildingexpansion programs. The proposed expanded facilitiesare not all just for the purpose of providing seating andfacilities for worship and Bible classes, either. Theyinclude gymnasiums and other strange facilities for acongregation which claims to be "of Christ" and which proposes to "speak as the oracles of God."

And so, we wonder again, how much more will it taketo awaken some to the realization that these are not churches "of Christ" at all, but the empty shells ofwhat once purported to be a people ready to "speakwhere the Bible speaks and be silent where the Bible issilent." There are congregations all over the countrywhich are not involved in such unscriptural trappingsand which are busily engaged in doing the Lord's workin the Lord's way. You have heard us called bad namesnow and have been misinformed as to what we believe and practice. Now, why don't you investigate for yourself? How much deeper into denominational errorsmust you be led before you resolve to come out?

DOES WATER SAVE A PERSON?

I never cease to be amazed at people and how theyactually miss and misconstrue what you have said.When we discuss the necessity of baptism in obedience to a command of God, people in the religious world immediately say, "oh, he believes that water is the saviour." In fact I recently received a letter from a person chiding me for teaching that one must be baptized in order to be saved by asking the question,"Did water ever save anyone? NO! It's Jesus's shed blood which saves—not water ..." Now I want you tovery carefully observe my answer. I agree with the above statement 100%. I do not believe there is any power in the water (in and of itself) to save any person!Neither do I believe that baptism alone will save anyone. Only penitent believers who are immersed in waterwill be saved.

Jesus stated in at least two different places that Hisblood is what saves us. If one denies this he denies what the Lord said in Matt. 26:28 and Rev. 1:5. However, it is not a question of what saves us, it is aquestion of when the benefits of Christ's blood are applied to our souls that we might receive the remissionof our sins. Notice the following illustration. Jesus saidHis blood was shed "FOR THE REMISSION OF SINS" (Matt. 26:28). Peter said we are baptized "FOR THE REMISSION OF SINS" (Acts 2:38). Is there a contradiction between what Christ said and what Peter said? NO! Christ's blood is WHAT saves us, baptism iswhen we receive the benefits of Christ's blood, for that is when we are said to receive the remission of sins.

But again! John said, "Christ. . . WASHED us fromour sins in his own blood" (Rev. 1:5). Saul was told,"Arise and be baptized and WASH away thy sins . . ."(Acts 22:16). Now is there a contradiction in what Johnsaid in Rev. 1:5 and what Paul said in Acts 22:16?

ABSOLUTELY NOT! The blood of Christ is WHAT washes away our sins, and baptism is WHEN they arewashed away by the blood of Christ.

Conclusion

No person has ever been saved without receiving thebenefits of the blood of Christ. However, I know of no other point of obedience, according to the teaching ofthe New Testament, where anyone (who was not a childof God) was ever said to be washed or receive remission of sins EXCEPT when he was baptized. I must conclude from this that baptism is the act of thealien sinner that completes his obedience to the commands of God that he might be saved.

If you have not received Scriptural baptism (it's only for believers—the proper subject, Mark 16:16; it is immersion or burial—the proper mode, Rom!" 6:3-6, Col. 2:12; it is to be a burial in water — the properelement, Acts 8:38, Acts 10:47; it is for the remission of sins—the right purpose, Acts 2:38), then I must warnyou that you have not been saved according to the teaching of the Word of God. For, if you were baptized as a baby (an unbeliever), and/or had watersprinkled on you (which is not baptism), and were baptized because someone told you that you were already saved (and not for the remission of sins) thenyou have not received Bible baptism.

PRESSING TOWARD THE MARK

The world of baseball was recently titillated by therecord smashing campaign of Pete Rose. The Cincinnati third baseman hit safely in 44 consecutive games and busted previous National League records right and left (he's a switch hitter) inthe process. He fell short of the all-time major leaguerecord in this area which is still held by Joe DiMaggiowho hit in 56 straight games.

A lot has been written about this matter, and you may wonder why it should be mentioned in Searching the Scriptures. Well, I ran across an interesting tidbit in the Nashville Banner regarding it that deserves someconsideration in the department of spiritual matters.

Ever heard of Sidney Stonestreet?

Rose said, "He played for the Rhode Island Reds inthe Chickenfeathers League. You probably never heardof him. I invented him. He hit in 48 straight games back in the 1880's."

Why would Rose invent such a character? The answer is quite logical, and it underscores a very important point: "You see, after I tied Keeler's record, I got to have something to shoot for between him and DiMaggio. So I just made upSidney Stonestreet and his 48 total."

Nevermind that he didn't make it. The fact is, if he hadn't set his sight on some goals, he would have neverchallenged the record. He knew the necessity of specific, well-defined goals, which were within possible reach! When Mr. Rose stepped up to the plate, his goalwas not some vague notion of being a good ballplayer.His goal was to get a hit, and inch a little closer toStonestreet's 48.

In the Christian life, we need to set goals.Ultimately, our goal should be going to Heaven: ". . .this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those thingswhich are before, I press toward the mark for theprize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus"(Phil. 3:13, 14).

But how much easier that will be if we will just set some more immediate goals along the way. What if everyone of us resolved to share the gospel with one lostsoul a week? What if each one resolved to thoroughlystudy some particular subject or book of the Bibleduring each six months or year? What if each of usresolved to exercise ourselves more fervently unto godliness in some particular aspect in which we know we're falling short?

Goals are essential to success!

Candidates Reward!

"Politics make strange bed partners." That's an old

saw I've heard all my life. I have no idea of its historical

basis, though one's imagination can conjure up some

interesting possibilities.

The truth it represents is a bit more evident,

however. One scriptural example is found in Luke

23:12: "And the same day (the day of Christ'scrucifixion, K.G.) Pilate and Herod were made friendstogether: for before they were at enmity between themselves."

I have mixed feelings about a lot of things, and

politics is one of them. On the one hand, I see the need

for decent, God-fearing people to become involved in

political affairs. On the other hand, I practically

tremble when I hear of a Christian running for office.

The casualty rate is high!

A clipping was recently submitted to me which

describes a candidate's plight of yesteryear. It was

taken from an aged Arkansas newspaper. Perhaps you

will agree with me that politics haven't changed much:

"Lost four months and 20 days canvassing, lost1,200 hours of sleep thinking about the election, lost 49acres of corn, and a whole lot of sweet potatoes, losttwo front teeth and much hair in a personal encounterwith my opponent, donated one beef, two shoats, andfive sheep of barbecue, gave away two pair suspenders,five calico dresses, and fifteen baby rattlers. Kissed two hundred and twenty-six babies, kindled 14 kitchen fires, put up eight stoves, cut 14 cords of wood, carried24 buckets of water, gathered seven wagon loads ofcorn, shelled 39 gallons of purple hull peas, pulled 575bundles of fodder, and churned 164 times. Walked 4,060 miles, shook 9,080 hands, told 10,000 lies, talked enough to make 10,000 volumes, attended 26 revivals,was baptized 4 times, made love to 9 grass widows, gotdog bit 29 times and then got defeated."

Christians who run for office would do well to givespecial heed to the injunction: "Provide things honestin the sight of all men" (Rom. 12:17b).

Children's Lib

Have you heard about the Children's Lib movement? I have a feeling that we may be hearing more about it in the future. Some are seriously arguing for "'civil rights" for children. Before youdecide that such sounds O.K., it might interest you to know that they have in mind making corporal punishment illegal, legislating full citizenship for children (which would eliminate compulsory education, and give them the right to vote), giving them the right to drive automobiles, enjoy sexual freedom, handle their own finances, and choose all sorts of options for themselves.

All of this and more has been advocated by psychologist Richard Farson and other advocates of "children's liberation." The results of such thinking are frightening to say the least!

Bruce Foster mentions in his Sword of the Lord column a couple of news articles which reflect this mentality:

Portsmouth Times, May 1, 1978: "Son Files Parental Malpractice Suit." Mr. Foster says, "This article tells about a young man who, because he waskicked out of school at age fifteen for smoking pot,was disciplined by his father for an entire week. The discipline consisted of pulling weeds, mowing grass,etc. The 'mistreated' boy figures he has gone throughten years of emotional distress because of his father'sactions and has, therefore, filed a $350,000 damagesuit against his parents."

Another article is cited from The [Jacksonville] Florida Times-Union, March 7, 1978: "Home Not Too Bad, Boy Finds." We are then told of a Chattanooga9-year-old boy who told his parents if they whipped him, he would call the police and report that theywere child-abusers.

"I finally got tired of it all and decided to call hisbluff," the mother reported. "I called the police myself."

Mr. Foster says: "The boy was told by the policethat he could be made a ward of the court and be sent to a juvenile home where he would have to share everything with the other 100 children."

"The boy calmed down when he realized we weren't kidding and found out he had a better home than hethought," the police stated.

Yes, children certainly have rights! They have rightsto parents who will love and discipline them. The Biblestill says: "He who spares his rod hates his son, but hewho loves him disciplines him diligently" (Prov. 13:24 NASB).

May we raise our voices with others against the sickening spectacle of genuine child abuse. But keep aneye out for the approaching danger of this other ex-treme.

THE GRACE—FELLOWSHIP ISSUE— No. 5 FAITH AND WORKS

Those of the New Unity Movement (NUM) not onlymisunderstand the law passages of the Bible (See "LAW AND GRACE", September Issue), they also misunderstand the work passages as well. They alsohave a misconception of what the Bible teaches on bothgrace and faith. They see every human effort, if madeessential to salvation, as a work of merit. Hence, theyconclude that salvation does not depend upon patterns,conditions, works, etc., but rather upon faith, whichfaith they define arbitrarily. We are told that like "lawand grace," "faith and works" are incompatible. Prooftexts (?) relied upon are: Rom. 1:17; 4:5, 20-24; Gal.3:11; Rom. 3:20; Gal. 2:16; Eph. 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5.

In all fairness, however, it should be pointed out thatthe NUM hesitates to minimize obedience. We are told that such will just naturally flow from a heart of faith.Yet, at the same time we are told that salvation does not depend upon exact obedience. This simply means,in the final analysis, that justification is by faith only.Some say so forthrightly, others hesitate to say asmuch, but the conclusion is inevitable.

As proof of this position, note the following: "It isnot that God keeps up with all our issues and enlargesHis list daily of things to check us on in judgment andsee if we got it figured out right or not. Rather Goddoes keep up with our daily constant life-long FAITHor UNBELIEF" (Edward Fudge, "A Journey Toward Jesus,: p. 17). Fudge points out further that the man offaith will always strive to please the Lord. Yet, whetheror not he is right or wrong in rendering exact obedienceis inconsequential; it is the heart of faith that counts.This faith, according to the NUM, is really in the "perfect doing and dying of Jesus," whose righteousness is imputed to us vicariously. (Thisconcept will be covered more fully in our next articleunder "Imputed Righteousness")

One of the influential factors in the NUM is the book "The Way of Salvation," by K. C. Moser. This booksets forth the same view of faith as affirmed by the current NUM. Note the following: "Man's faith receives God's grace. Then why is some other act thanfaith made a condition of salvation? Where is the placefor it? What can it do? Has chaos joined hands withorder? Have the compatible and the incompatible foundfellowship?" (K. C. Moser, The Way Of Salvation, p.97). Again," (Indeed, it seems to be difficult even at the present time for many to grasp the idea of a righteousness that does not depend upon human effort.To them a righteousness not based on good deedsseems impossible and unreal)" (Ibid, p. 115).

R. L. Whiteside in his commentary on Romans saysconcerning the above statement, "Surely the author didnot properly consider the import of his words. If a Universalist or an Ultra-Calvinist had penned suchwords, we would not be surprised. Not only am I notable to grasp the idea of a righteousness that does notdepend on human effort, but I do not believe there issuch righteousness in any human being. If a human being is made righteous without any human effort, thenwhy are not all righteous?" [Commentary on Romans,

R. L. Whiteside, p. 93). Brother Whiteside says further, on Rom. 4:4, 5: "Only perfect works, workswithout any guilt of sin, can bring salvation as a debt.The one 'who worketh' is, therefore, the one whoseworks are so perfect that he has no guilt of sin. But noone has so lived. Hence, to the one whose work is notperfect, but who believes in Jesus Christ, God reckons, or counts his faith for (eis, in order to) his righteousness—that is, in order that, on the basis ofhis faith, he may forgive his sins and thus constitutehim a righteous person. Let us not be so unjust with Paul as to switch his language from his line of reasoning and make it apply to the acts of obediencerequired in the gospel" (Ibid, p. 94).

A very grave mistake made by the NUM is a failureto understand that different kinds of works are under consideration in the work passages of the Bible. Thatdifferent kinds of works are involved is evident from the fact that if "not of works" excludes every human effortor act of obedience (as essential to salvation), then faithitself is excluded, because it is a work: "Jesus answeredand said unto them, This is the work of God, that yebelieve on him whom he hath sent" (John 6:29).Calvinists say this work is not one appointed by Godfor man to do in contrast to that which man appointsfor himself, but rather a work that God performs in theheart of the individual. Will those of the NUM go allthe way with Calvin and say that even faith is a gift ofthe Spirit?

Denominationalism has long faced a problem in thework passages of the Bible. On one hand they readthat acceptance with God, regardless of nationality, isconditioned upon "working righteousness" (Acts10:34,35); that "by works a man is justified, and not byfaith only" (Jas. 2:24). On the other hand they read:"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that notof yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lestany man should boast" (Eph. 2:8, 9). Again, "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing ofregeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost" (Titus 3:5).

This was a real problem for Martin Luther who thought that Paul and James contradicted each other:"The epistle of James however only drives you to thelaw and its works . . . perhaps the epistle was writtenby someone else who made notes of a sermon of his. Hecalls the law a law of freedom (Jas. 1:25; 2:12), although St. Paul calls it a law of slavery, wrath,death, and sin (Gal. 3:23f; Rom. 4:15; 7:10f) ... Itherefore refuse him a place among the writers of the true canon of my Bible; but I would not prevent anyoneelse placing him or raising him where he likes, for theepistle contains many excellent passages" (See Introduction to epistle of James, by William Barclay,

p. 8).

The answer to the problem is to be found in the factthat different kinds of works are under consideration,namely, works of faith and works of merit. The latter involves perfect obedience—a sinless life—whereby thereward is earned and received as a matter of debt. No grace is needed. The former involves manifesting one'sfaith while at the same time coming short of perfectobedience. It involves perfect obedience to conditions offaith, but not perfect obedience to the whole of God'sperfect law. Works of faith are not meritorious. They simply make manifest one's faith. For example, if one were to work at manual labor all day in the hot sun andreceived a wage of fifty dollars, he would likely say, "Iearned every dime of it." We could appreciate his statement. He merited the fifty dollars—his was a workof merit. On the other hand, if while preaching, I wereto say to Bill, sitting on the front seat, "If you willstand up and sit back down, I'll give you fifty dollars,"Bill would likely do just that. If so, who would say thatBill received his fifty dollars on the basis of the amountof work done? He would not have earned his like the man who worked at manual labor all day. His workwould be a manifestation of faith in me. Hence, a work of faith. Such work does not invalidate its being a giftor of grace.

So it is with salvation. There are conditions of faith to be met by the alien and the saint in the matter offorgiveness. There are conditions of faith the saint must continue to meet (2 Cor. 5:7). These conditions involve God's pattern for the worship, organization,and work of the church. These conditions are absolute, yet they are within reach of man. Whether or not oneobeys is a simple matter of faith. Some conditions arerelative. In character development and spiritual growth, the condition of faith is that we give "all diligence" in such growth (2 Pet. 1:5). Our obedience isdetermined in relation to our time, opportunity, andability (Cf. Matt. 25:14f). (Absolute and relative commands will be covered more fully in another article) .

A long time ago, Moses E. Lard, in commenting on Rom. 11:6, put it this way: "Partial obedience to the law is the only obedience possible to man; perfectobedience to conditions is the only obedience acceptable to God" (Moses E. Lard, Commentary On Paul's Letter To Romans, p. 350). Paul put it this way: "Forby grace are ye saved through faith; and that not ofyourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest anyman should boast" (Eph. 2:8, 9). This is just anotherway of saying that salvation is not by works of merit,but it is by works of faith.

Let us resolve from the outset that we are considering a figure of speech known as metonymy.1 Both Thayer2 and Arndt and Gingrich3 list two ways in which the word "taste" is used. We are concerned with the figurative use as a metonymy which Gingrich lists as ". . .to come to know something . . ."4

Jesus had told the disciples many times that he would undergo this taste. Yet they never comprehended his words (Jn. 12:32). Certainly Jesus did taste of all the hours that lead to the trial and condemnation. Even on the last night in the garden ofGethsemane he was tasting of the human element of adreadful expectation (Matt. 26:37ff). Yet we still can taste this aspect.

Taste of Betrayal

Even of those who were his very chosen and werewith him in many trying and emotional moments, yetJudas turned his allegiance from him to the lust of thisworld (Jn. 18:2). Yet again, we can still taste thisaspect of death today, or at least are subject to it happening.

Taste of Rejection

Not only was he rejected by one close to him, but wasthen arrested and mock tried by those whom he had tried so hard on many occasions to move from theirshow religion to one of meaning and substance, thechief priests and Pharisees (Jn. 18:3). In the proceedings to follow, he tasted of the rejection of allthat he had taught them concerning truth and justice (Matt. 23:23). Yet this is also possible for usto taste today.

Taste of Cowardice

Certainly not that Jesus was the coward, but that hedid witness while bound by the guards, the cowardice ofPeter as he denied that he knew Jesus (Lk. 22:60f).Thus the dark shadow of loneliness begins to fall as allnow have forsaken him. Yet this is within our scope totaste today.

Taste of Condemnation

After false witnesses (Matt. 26:59), and being foundnot guilty of anything by Herod and even Pilate at leastfour times (Matt. 27:24), then he, the innocent, heardthe condemnation for the guilty passed upon him (Jn.19:15f). Yet we can still taste such a condemnation today passed on us, though we are never innocent. Butthere seems to be a crossing line here that mere mancould not or would not cross. Because death now is certain. From the Place of the Pavement to the Place of the Skull, he portrays what no man ever had before,ever has since, nor ever will. This is brought out well byEdward Fudge in his commentary on Hebrews 2:9;"Jesus became a representative man. In him, God found a man who gave what he had always wanted from man but which no man had ever given—a human life fully and always dedicated to pleasing God . . . It was the Creator's original intention for man. And now one man is in that position. And because he is a representative man, acting on behalf of all mankind, his people will one day enjoy the same position of glory."5

Truly, what man could ever face death and fully taste it as our Lord did? And what more can a man taste and

give than his physical life? Jesus said this was thegreatest act of love at John 15:13. But was there something more that Jesus would give?

Taste of Physical Suffering

As we approach this aspect, we begin to speak on asubject of which we are all ignorant in reality. We onlybegin to comprehend that with which we have connection. Lenski on his comment to "taste of death" said:

". . . is to undergo all its dread bitterness; it is

not a softening but rather a strengthening of

the simple verb 'to die'. Jesus tasted death, not

by merely sipping, but by fully draining the

cup."6 To this experience none of us can lay claim. Yet we shallall in some degree experience something of the physicaldeath (Heb. 9:27). Of the seven things that Jesus saidwhile he was on the cross, each shows us his perfectioneven in this condition.

1. "Father, forgive them; for they know not whatthey do" (Lk. 23:34).
2. When a mere man would have cursed them, he praysfor them.
1. "Today shalt thou be with me in paradise" (Lk.23:43).
2. When a mere man would have viewed the end, he gives a promise for the future.
1. "Woman, behold thy son" (Jno. 19:26)! When amere man would think of himself, he pur poses forhis mother.
2. "I thirst" (Jno. 19:28).

The very process of death now sets firmly in motion.This is a fulfilment of Ps. 69:21. It depicts the processes of the body as they cease to function.

We want to remember here that the first three thingshe said were during the period of light, 9 a.m. to noon.This one and those to follow now are said in the periodof darkness, noon to 3 p.m..

5. "It is finished" (Jno. 19:30).

When a mere man would have died in defeat, Jesuscried a word of victory. This is the Greek word tetelestai of which Barclay says:

". . . 'It is finished,' is one Greek word

— tetelestai—. . . He said it as one who shouts for joy because the victory is won."7

This would have been a familiar cry to the Romansoldiers standing by. It's what they would cry after thebattle was decided in their favor.

6. "Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit"(Lk. 23:45).

After stating that God had forsaken him, which wewill come back to, now he trusts his destiny to hisFather. And so now he tasted the final physical pain,the spirit as it departs from the body (Lk. 23:46). It isfitting that it may have been at this very hour, 3 p.m.,that the lambs were being sacrificed in the temple.8 And thus our passover was sacrificed, (I Cor. 5:7) the"Lamb of God" (Jn. 1:29).

But was that the height of it? I do not mean for asecond to minimize the physical aspect of his death.But I do want to look at the one saying that we haveomitted thus far.

7. "My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken me"(Mk. 15:34)?

While this cry has been thought by many to be themost difficult to understand, and by others the darkesthour, it is the climax of his sacrifice and the brightestmoment in history. Not that he was separated from hisfather for the first time, but that it was at this verymoment that he "became sin" for us (I Peter 2:24, II Cor. 5:21).

The penalty for sin is separation from God, (Isa.59:1f) not physical death alone. Physical death is aresult of sin, it is but momentary. Spiritual death is thepenalty for sin and it is everlasting (Matt. 25:46). Tothis very point Lenski comments:

"Jesus did not die and suffer in a general way,

merely die some kind of a death as all sinners

suffer more or less and finally die. Of such

suffering and death it could not be said that

'because of it' a person is crowned with glory

and honor. The soul that sinneth it shall

die."9 The soul (inner spiritual man) is supposedly in controlof this flesh, not the flesh in control of our soul. Thusthe soul (or spirit) must bear the ultimate penalty,separation from God. To this cry the learned J. W. McGarvey comments:

"Suffice it to say, that this was without doubt the most excruciating of all Christ's sufferings, and it, too, was a suffering in our stead." 10

Conclusion

Jesus said, "I say unto you, If a man keep mysaying, he shall never see death. , . . Then said the Jewsunto him, Now we know that thou hast a devil, . . . and thou sayest, If a man keep my sayings he shall nevertaste of death" (Jn. 8:51f). Yet he also said, "Many ofyou standing here shall in no wise taste of death, tillyou have seen the kingdom of God come with power"(Mk. 9:1). Now which is it? I understand it to be both.If we will keep his sayings we will never "taste" of spiritual death, separation from God eternally. This is the "second death" (Rev. 20:14). But what Jesus saidin the second quote was that some of them would not"taste" of physical death until the kingdom of Godshould come on the day of Pentecost recorded at Acts 2.

Thus we understand the Lord at John 8:51 to mean that we will never experience the penalty for sin,spiritual death, as long as we continue in his words.This is the only understanding I can deduct from thispassage and our theme text of Heb. 2:9.

In this "tasting" of death for us, another example isseen of how ... he was tempted in all things as we are,yet without sin" (Heb. 4:15).

Footnotes

1. Dungan, D. R. Text Book on Hermeneutics, pg. 270.
2. Thayer's Greek English Lexicon, pg. 114.
3. Arndt & Gingrich's Greek English Lexicon, pg. 156.
4. Op. cit.
5. Fudge, Edward Our Man In Heaven, pg. 29.
6. Lenski, R. C. H. The Epistle to the Hebrews and James, Pg. 77.
7. Barclay, William The Letter to John, pg. 301.
8. McGarvey & Pendleton, The Fourfold Gospel, pg. 731.
9. Op. cit. pg. 76.
10. Op. cit. pg. 730.

Say that I get my child to believe in Santa Claus.Then suppose that one evening I hear him praying,"And, please, God, help Santa to come down the chimney safe." The Christian adult recoils. We are shocked. The reaction is, "His thinking is mixed up. Heshould know better."

But, why should he? Has not a hodge-podge of both"God" and "Santa" been "fed" to him indiscriminately? Both are beyond his sight and hearing. He depends upon older persons to distinguish for him between reality and pretense. If such a distinction is not made, how is the child to know whether one, or both, or neither are truth? How couldhe tell? And since his conceptions are exactly whatthe overwhelming odds indicate that they would be,whose fault is it?

Someone may be concluding, "This was written byan old fogey who does not want the kids to have anyfun." Not so, my friend. We are aware of the value of"pretend" and "play like." Those who have raised families, and especially those who have studied and taught children's literature, know of the worth and positive benefits of make-believe.

But, we can also see that anyone who lives near awood should not teach "The Three Bears" or "Little Red Riding-Hood" as absolute fact. Unless you want toscare your little youngsters, you should not! Some of usrecall our first idea of Santa. In some cases this was one of fear. To a three-year-old the thoughts of a fuzzy-faced character prowling about him while he sleeps canbe disquieting.

So, we recommend candor and honesty. The "playlike" can be just as much fun as lies which are told to achild as truth. Children should know that the birth of Jesus was fact, truth, and real history. It can be madeclear that Santa, etc., are "pretend" and "just for fun."

In the lobby a five-year-old boy engaged in conversation a kindly, well-meaning, older lady. Heasked, "Is Santa Claus really true?" She answered,"Yes, really true!" His response surprised her, "Well,what a liar my daddy is!"

In view of long-range effects what is being done toour children is neither innocent nor harmless. How better could Satan promote an air of childish fantasyand myth about God and His Son than by having people teach the little ones exactly what they are teaching them now?

If you do not reach a decision about this before theChristmas season then consider what your children are hearing and seeing. At a school program, pupils andpre-school visitors are treated to nativity scenes,closely followed by, and often sandwiched in between,numbers depicting elves, talking animals, and otherimaginary and legendary material.

Look at your TV Guide or at the listings in the newspaper. Note the titles of the "children's specials."Now, listen to the songs played on the radio. Such a sequence as the following is not uncommon. "Santa Claus is Coming to Town," will be followed without apause and without comment by "Silent Night," "UpOn the Housetop," "Oh, Little Town of Bethlehem,""Rudolph . . .," etc., etc. If anyone reading this doesnot believe that to be true, then please for yourselfwrite down in order the names of the songs aired onyour local radio station at Christmas time.

In such mixtures pointed out above, if a parent doesnot have the good sense and courage to sort out and make clear the fact and fancy, no one else is going to.This is a contrived and planned mixture. It is the thought, scheme, and device of the enemy of our souls,who is also the father of lies (John 8:44). He is gettingat our children early. "We are not ignorant of hisdevices (2 Cor. 2:11)." Or, are we?

Some mother who is reading this may still be holdingto the advisability of teaching "Santa" to her little girlas truth. If so, please reason carefully about it. See itfrom the eyes of your daughter. She is taught the mythabout Santa by you as an absolute fact. She trusts you implicitly just as she does when you tell her about thebaby Jesus. She is sooner or later going to learn thatMommy lied (or substitute a softer word) about Santa.What is to keep her from thinking, "Maybe she lied (orsubstitute your softer word) about Jesus, too!"

Christians have a duty here. Especially should parents take seriously and intelligently their responsibility in connection with this. Whenever God's people see their given task they should have the courage to do it. This one involves the welfare and thecertain future attitudes of little children.

Perhaps it is not altogether an "accident" that the five letters in "SANTA" can be arranged so readily toform another word.

Box 895

Craig, CO 81625

We often speak of youth, middle age, and old age.The Bible speaks of youth and age. However we mayword it, we all realize that there is a time in one's life during which one is wholly dependent on his or herparents. In the normal course of life, as God recommends, there comes a time when two young people leave their parents to be dependent upon oneanother. They do not give up their love for theirparents nor do they ignore their parents' advice, but they make their own plans and face life's responsibilities together in a new relationship. A newhome is formed with the approval and under the loving observation of the parents. The two who formthis independent and separate unit are said to become one. The marriage tie is so precious in God's sight that His word mentions it as a typeof the relationship between Christ and His church.We are married to Christ. The church is His bride which He loves and for which He gave Himself. Thechurch is to recognize Christ as Head in all matters that pertain to it. In marriage the wife is tobe subject to her husband in everything, while thehusband leaves his father and mother and cleaves to his wife.

In the beginning God created man and said that itwas not good that he should be alone. Marriage ishonorable in all, so any one who would forbid such isin conflict with the revelation of God's will. A bishop in the Lord's church is to be an example to us all,and he must be the husband of one wife. To the young widows Paul sent the inspired suggestion thatyounger women marry, bear children, guide thehouse, and give no occasion to the adversary to speakreproachfully. Much is said in both the Old and theNew Testaments to encourage the uniting of husbandand wife in the holy bond of matrimony, and He haslaws and wise suggestions to regulate and preservethe home as a sacred unit of society. This contract isregistered in government offices, but it is also notedand recorded in the heavenly records. It is taught inscripture that God binds the two together, and it ismade very clear that man is not to break this bond.Only death or grievous sin can break it. In happymarriages the relationship becomes even more meaningful with the passing of the years. Each isblessed by the other. Together they often provide ahaven of peace and joy to others who come their way,for the home is not meant to be a lonely island ofhappiness for only two people.

Children are to be expected and loved. The parentsare the official guardians of these children to teach, train, encourage, protect, and guide them through their periods of infancy, childhood, and youth intohappy and stable adulthood. The responsibilities aremany, and so are the joys of parenthood. Something is lacking in the home if there is never the laughter ofchildren to add purpose and hope in the hearts of theparents. The horizon is pushed farther out in alldirections so that more of the beautiful light of theheavens can be seen when children become part of the family circle.

Faith, hope, and love are three wonderful, abiding,motivating principles that keep people faithful toGod. The loss of either may cause one to depart fromthe living of God to become a servant of sin. Thesethree essentials to the life of a Christian are veryeffective in preserving the marriage tie. There is analarming number of divorces in this generation, butthese sinful failures in marriage come as people turntheir backs upon God and walk away from Him.Those who are pressing toward the mark for the prizeof the high calling of God in Christ Jesus make goodmarriage companions. Love for God and proper lovefor people are very closely related, wholesome influences. When there is the loss of faith and respect for God and His word, hope is lost, and thehome is almost certain to break. Souls are defiled and hearts are broken. Several lives are permanentlyscarred by this sad loss which is all too common inAmerica. An age of skepticism is an age of divorce.

Love of the world and love for God cannot abide in the same heart. If we love God we keep His commandments. If we love the world the lust of the flesh will dominate our lives. With the loss of faith in God and love for Him, the love for the marriagecompanion is not likely to last. Lust takes the place oftrue love. There is great hope for a happy marriage andfor its continuing success if faith, hope, and loveabide. Let each member of the new family walk withGod, so that the two may walk together in happyconcord and peace.

Confidence in God's word fills one with a realization of the depth of His wisdom and knowledgeand gives one a good view of the beauty of holiness.The one whose life is pure and holy will not break themarriage tie in a search for happiness in sin andrebellion against God's law. Some may seem to bereligious for a while after money has become theirgod, or after faith has become so weak that there isno fear of judgment. There are thorns such as cares,riches, and pleasures that often crowd out fruit-bearing faith, hope, and love. Each should take heedlest he fall. With fear and trembling one should givediligence to make his calling and election sure. Suchefforts will bless the individual, the church, and thefamily, and the doctrine of God our Savior will beadorned. The godly have the promise of the life thatnow is and of that which is to come.

It is not a strong faith in God and a living hope forheaven that break the marriage tie. It is not faiththat works through love that leads to divorce anddesertion of children. Adultery and fornication areworks of the flesh, and those who are guilty areenemies of God. Their homes break, their hopes are

blasted, their children are harmed immeasurably, andthe inheritance promised to citizens of the kingdom ofGod is beyond their reach. They are disinherited byGod if they were ever His children.

Honest labor is not a thing to be avoided. It is honorable, and it is a part of God's original plan forman. The unwillingness of a husband or wife to face the more difficult responsibilities of life often leads tothe undoing of the marriage tie. Unselfish and diligent efforts to make the home better and the companionship a greater joy should be characterized by zeal. We get more out of a wonderful relationshipif we put more into it. Laziness and unconcern for thewelfare of the family unit are sins against society andin God's sight. This is one realm where special efforts toward success pay great dividends. Marriage is a partnership, and the worthy efforts of one bring joy to both.

In the family unit each belongs to the other. Thetwo become one. He gives himself to her in true loveand devotion. She gives herself completely to him,and his welfare and joy are her delight. God plannedmarriage and made the two to complement each other. Neither is complete without the other. Together they make a home for children, for friends,and for themselves. The faithfulness of each to the other is one of the beautiful aspects of holiness. It is one of the essentials of eternal bliss because God demands faithfulness to the marriage partner.

The happy marriage brightens the countenance ofeach companion to such an extent that years laterpeople may observe this evidence of joy and mention it to others. It is kindness with sympatheticunderstanding that can keep this glow in the heart.Trivial differences and delight in the hearts of thetwo lovers. They know how to forgive, and theyknow how to express gratitude. Good will is to be abright star that is forever visible. There will be nodark nights where such abounds and where it is fullyexpressed.

Full confidence and the absence of jealousy arejewels to be desired. This confidence in each other isone of the things that draws the two together in thefirst place. It is one of the strong cords that holdsthem together through the years. It is earned and maintained by shunning the very appearance of evil.Let no relative, ungodly person, or the devil himselfinduce one to jealousy or to the loss of that trustworthiness. No person, habit, or attitude mustbe tolerated that would endanger this very foundationof a beautiful structure that is to last a life time. False charges and unfounded doubts are to find no place inthe heart of either home builder. Let each be willingto come to the rescue of the other. They stand or falltogether. Any one who would prejudice one partneragainst the other is a common enemy. Such a personmust be shunned.

If each and every day can be kept free from wordsand deeds that will be regretted, the whole of life canbe lived on this plane of peace; for all of life is but atotal of the hours and days that pass so swiftly. Putsomething good into each unit of time. Since life ismade up of the many little things that are said and done, let the big thing be faithfulness and unselfishness in all the little things that fill your days.

When two marry they first become husband andwife. Later they become parents, and finally theybecome grandparents. Let each such period bebrighter and more meaningful than the period before.For a story to have a happy ending there should bedeserved and cultivated happiness from first to last.Spare no effort to write happy events in the mindeach day that can later be called happy memories.This is good success.

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Wordwas with God, and the Word was God" (Jn. 1:1)."And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us,(and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the onlybegotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth" (Jn.1:14). There can be no doubt about who is the oneunder consideration, because the author of the book went on and wrote, "The law was given by Moses,but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ" (Jn. 1:17).

In verse 17 it is affirmed that "Jesus Christ" brought "grace and truth" which can only mean thatHe was the one "full of grace and truth" (v. 14). It is, therefore, the affirmation of these verses that"Jesus Christ" is "the only begotten of the Father,""the Word. . .made flesh" and that He "was God."

There is some confusion among brethren regarding the "grace and truth" with which the divine Son of God is said to have replaced the "law . . . given by Moses." Certain brethren are making the old threadbare denominational argument which says,"We are now under the grace of God and no longerunder law, because 'the law was given by Moses, butgrace and truth came by Jesus Christ.' "

The fallacy of this assertion lies in the fact that it does not give consideration to the whole statement.In the verse there are three words that must be givenequal consideration. These words are: law, grace andtruth. The argument which brethren have obtainedfrom the denominations completely ignores the thirdword. The failure of brethren to deal with the third word, "truth," when they tell us, "We are no longer under law; we are now under the grace of God," substantiates my assertion that there is some confusion on the point.

It appears that brethren are ignoring the word,"truth," either because they are unaware of the idea for which it stands or because they have the erroneous idea that grace and law are incompatiblewith each other. The careful reader will have observed that the preceding sentence makes the suggestionthat the word, "truth," stands for the idea of law. If

this suggestion could be proven, it would show that

the law which came by Jesus Christ is a law of grace.

When one suggests an idea or asserts a point, he is

obligated to submit evidence to support his

suggestion or assertion. (Some also need to face up to

this obligation in connection with the point at issue.)

If we are willing to allow the New Testament tospeak for itself, it should be a fair way to deal withthe matter. Also it seems to me to be an easy way toestablish the thing suggested — the word, "truth,"(Jn. 1:17), refers to the law under which we are toserve God today. When Jesus prayed to God the Father for his apostles, He said, "Sanctify themthrough thy truth: thy word is truth" (Jn. 17:17).John had previously recorded the words of Jesus:"He that rejecteth me and receiveth not my wordshath one that judgeth him: the word that I havespoken the same shall judge him in the last day. ForI have not spoken of myself; but the Father whichsent me, he gave me a commandment, what I shouldsay, and what I should speak. And I know that hiscommandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speaktherefore, even as the Father said unto me, so Ispeak" (Jn. 12:48 - 50). It should be not difficult tounderstand that "the word" which Jesus spake wasthe word of God and, therefore, "truth." Notice also,we are to be judged "in the last day" by the word ofGod which is "truth." Proof that this "truth" is law lies in the command, "So speak ye, and so do, asthey that shall be judged by the law of liberty" (Jas. 2:12).

Now that it has been established that the word,"truth" as used by John stands for the same thing asthe word, "law," we can readily see that John 1:17actually links grace with law. Those who contendthat grace and law are incompatible ideas manifesttheir confusion regarding John 1:17.

Some who have denied that we are under law make their contention absurd, when they indicate that wecan sin. The absurdity lies in the fact that where nolaw exists sin is an impossibility. The very nature ofsin requires the existence of law before it can occur."Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also thelaw: for sin is the transgression of the law" (1 Jn.

3:4).

The connection between sin and law may be seen inthe book of Romans. We have noticed that Jesus spake the word of God, when He was upon the earth.His words are also called the gospel (Mt. 4:23; Mk.1:14; 1 Pet. 1:25 and etc.). After the introduction ofRomans chapter one, Paul shows that the Gentileshave sinned and, therefore, are in need of the gospel.We have already observed that the gospel is the lawof liberty in preceding considerations. In Romans chapter two we are shown that the Jews also havesinned and, therefore, are in need of the gospel.Romans chapter three shows that all have sinned andare in need of the gospel. Romans chapter four showsthat both Jew and Gentile have sinned, becausemankind has never been without law from God which every one must either obey or else transgress: "For where no law is, there is no transgression" (Rom.

4:15). If we will consider this verse in the light of the context of the book of Romans, we will not find in itthe remotest hint that anyone ever was, or thatanyone ever will be, in a situation where he is outside of law from God. This verse also proves, beyond anysensible contention to the contrary, that where sinoccurs law existed.

Let those who contend that we are not under law be consistent. Let them also contend that we cannot sin. To do less is inconsistent, if not down rightdishonesty or moral cowardice. It is plainly ridiculousto say that man can sin while denying that he isunder law. Some brethren need to start making sense. They need to leave the denominational pastures, where they have been feeding on the devil's tares (loco weed), and return to the pleasant pastureof God, where they can feed on the good wheat whichis His pure and holy word — "The perfect law ofliberty" (Jas. 1:25 and 2:12).

REPORT OF 1978 PHILIPPINEBENEVOLENCE TRIP

On 29 July I returned from 3 1/2 weeks in thePhilippines. This trip was in response to an appeal fromBrother Ruben C. Notarte, whom I have known for alot of years, concerning nearly 600 brethren who wereclose to starvation. These were of the cultural minorities. Several years ago, Muslim rebels had driventhem from their lands, destroying their farm implements and killing or stealing their work animals.Along with several thousand non-saint refugees, theymoved into the mountainous area north of Davao City,Mindanao. The only work available was as tenantfarmers. As they no longer had either tools or workanimals, they farmed entirely by hand. Each manworked approximately one hectare. In a good year, thiswould sustain a family of 4 to 6, even after the landowner's share was paid. But a good year in these uplands where they farmed means enough rainto provide for the crops. Unlike in the lowlands, irrigation is not possible. A drought occurred early in1978, resulting in all the tenant farmers, includingthe brethren, missing this year's first harvest. They hadno money for food. Only the food speculators would lendto them. These "sold" them rice at three times the going retail price. It was to be paid back with the second harvest. But the pay back rate was not at theinflated price charged by the speculators, but by whatever price the growers could obtain in the wholesale market. This would have taken at least one half of the second har

vest, setting the stage for perpetual economic slaveryto these speculators. To minimize their borrowing, thebrethren cut back their food drastically. Additionally,much sickness had been brought on by inadequate andinsufficient food, and other causes. These brethren hadcompletely exhausted their own capability (Acts 2, 4, 6and 11).

A total of $9865.07 was contributed for benevolence.

It was disbursed as follows:Benevolence: $7342.62 74.43%Round trip airline travel to Manila: $1449.00 14.69%

In-country airline travel: Overseas telephone call: Stolen from me in Manila: 180.97 57.0140.00 1.83% 0.58% 0.41% 91.91 Remaining balance:

$9129.60
795.47*			8.09%
$9865.07	100.00%

*Received after my departure; deposited in specialaccount, to be used if necessary.

I will hold the balance for a time to insure the need has been fully met. If needed, I will send the additionalmoney to the man (brother Notarte) who with me actedas a messenger. Any further distribution will be madeon the basis all agreed to and used while I was there.All the distribution was covered by witnessed receiptsand doubly-verified counting, satisfying 2 Cor. 13:1. Funds were placed in the hands of the elders/men ofeach congregation, by the messengers. These in turn,redistributed to the individual needy in each church. Ifthe additional monies (remaining balance) are not needed, I will return them to the contributors on a basisproportionate to the contributions of each.

Several sent funds for benevolence and additionally,for my personal living expenses. These exceeded myneed, so I put the remainder into the benevolent funds,listed above.

As a retired military member, I am permitted totravel "Space-available" on military contract airlines. I tried to do so, to save as much as possible for the need.However, no space was available. Two strikingcommercial airlines greatly reduced the seats availableon all the operating airlines. I stayed in California for four days trying to get on "Space-A". But due to the backlog demand for commercial seats, duty passengers who might have gone commercially were forced onto military contract travel. On one typical flight from Travis AFB, all seats were filled with dutypersonnel; another 14 duty passengers were in the terminal with standby boarding passes, and I was number 7 on the "Space-available" list. For me to get a seat, 21 duty passengers already present with boarding passes would have had something happen toprevent them from filling their assigned seats. Such was too unrealistic to expect.

Airline travel was very tight. Anticipating such a possibility, I was on Pan Am's priority waiting list forthree weeks to get a cancellation for firm reservations. Itook this precaution in the event I was unable to go"Space-A". The situation in Tokyo on my return illustrated this: there were about 100 people on standby for a seat on any airline going to the US. One womanasked to be placed on the waiting list for any US city; aman said he had been stranded in Tokyo for three weekstrying to get a seat on any flight to the US.

Because my travel days were dictated by the cancelled airline reservations I obtained, I spent moretime in the Philippines than I had planned. I used thisin God's service to do what I could do to help straighten out several situations. I will advise individuals and churches concerned what was accomplished. I believe the time was profitably spent.A final contribution of $500.00 arrived after myreturn. I will add this to the remaining balance. I wantto thank all who had fellowship in this. The brethrenare very grateful, as I am also. And, God is pleased.My personal best to all God's faithful. May God continue to bless you in His service in His vineyard.Wallace H. Little 4 August 1978

In the city of Athens Paul saw an altar "with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD," (Acts 17:23).One historian estimates that there were at least 30,000 different deities worshipped among the Athenians and yet, fearful of missing and offending one, this altar seenby Paul had been erected.

And, just why shouldn't each Athenian be allowed tohave the god of his own choice? Can't you hear some broad-minded Athenian saying, "The god that one serves makes no difference for one god is just as good asanother." To this another replies, "I've always felt thatit isn't the god to whom one belongs that is importantbut how one feels in his heart as he worships."

My friend, does this have a somewhat familiar ring?It should, for the reasons offered for each Athenian's having the god of his choice are those so frequentlygiven in defence of each person's having a right to thechurch of his choice. Why would these constitute a valid defence for one and not the other when the same Bible that teaches that there is one God (Eph. 4:6), alsoteaches that there is one body (Eph. 4:4) and identifiesit as the church (Eph. 1:22-23).

Since the Bible teaches this, what makes it all rightfor every person to have the church of his choice butsinful and wrong for him to have the god of his choice?If one church is really as good as another and the thing that is of major importance is how one feels in worship,not the church, why are not the same things true inreference to gods?

Frankly, I do not believe that there is an argumentthat can be made for the existence of denominationalism that cannot be made with equalforce for paganism. Where is the consistency inbelieving that one means only one when applied to Godbut that it does not mean that when applied to thechurch?

With the fearful anticipation that a great conflictbetween the states was inevitable, Abraham Lincolnsaid, "If God has a place for me in this, and I believehe has, then I am ready."

What a joy it would be if more good people would display an attitude such as that of Lincoln. Far too often so many of us do as David of old and let othersgo forth to battle while we remain behind in safety.

When I was a boy and my family lived on a farm, I well remember my father standing on the porch andwatching the gathering clouds in the late evening. Heoften would remark that we should be ready to go tothe storm cellar for surely there was a storm brewing.More often than not he was right.

While not aspiring to be a prophet and oftenhoping that I am wrong, I nevertheless fear thatthere are dark clouds gathering which shall threatenonce more the people of God. I speak with regard tothe sanctity of marriage and lax attitude among somebrethren concerning divorce and remarriage. It wouldappear that some are finding it more convenient togive way to the desires of the flesh than to preach theLord's will on the subject. One preacher was quotedas saying that "if the church does not take a more lenient attitude toward divorce and remarriage, thatit will not be long until there will be no one to preachto". May I respond by saying, "So what!" I for onewould rather dig ditches than to be in a situationwhere I had to ignore a part of God's divine word. Ibelieve that Paul had in mind for us to preach all ofthe Word (2 Tim. 4:2).

I continue to be amazed (although perhaps I should not be) at the efforts of men who seek to alter God'slaws to meet their own whims and fancies. Consider the idea which is resurfacing (it has been around along time) that baptism will release one from thestain of sin brought on by a second marriage which isnot recognized by God. It really matters not whetherit be one marriage or ten. The idea seems to be thatbaptism will make null and void all previously existing relationships and make the present relationship pure and whole.

If this be true, then consider the following: repentance is only a matter of being sorry and doesnot necessarily involve a turning away from sin; orthat God does not recognize a marriage made between those who have never been baptized. Ideny either or both of these assumptions. Repentance may be defined thus: "to feel self-reproach, compunction, or contrition for past conduct; change one's mind with regard to past action in consequences of dissatisfaction with it or its results." "To feel such sorrow for sin or fault as to be disposed to change

one's life for the better; be penitent". (The Random

House American Dictionary, p. 1028). "To amend or

resolve to amend one's life as a result of contrition for

one's sins". (Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, 5th

Edition, p. 844). The greek verb, METANOEO,

means to perceive afterwards; the changing of one's

mind or purpose. The word METANOIA (which

corresponds with Metanoeo) means afterthought;

change of mind, repentance. Repentance involves

action on man's part as required by God (Matt. 3:8;

Luke 3:8; Acts 20:21; Acts 26:20). The mercy of God

is seen in the giving of repentance or leading men to

it (Acts 5:31; Acts 11:18; Rom. 2:4; 2 Tim. 2:25). No

place in the sacred writings is it remotely suggested

that man may seek and obtain forgiveness while

continuing in a sin or sinful relationship which was

perpetuated before forgiveness was sought.

There are some who vainly attempt to argue thatadultery is an act and therefore cannot be considereda state, condition or relationship. In 1 Cor. 5, theapostle Paul discusses the report that there wasfornication among the Corinthians in that a man hadhis father's wife. I have always understood that thisman was living with his father's wife. But more clearly in verse 9, Paul says not to company withfornicators. In verse 11 he says if a brother be afornicator that with such a one not to eat. Am I to understand that in order for me to have companywith a fornicator I must be present during the verytime that an illicit sexual act is being committed? According to such reasoning I could scripturallyassociate with a drunkard as long as he was not drinking; with an extortioner as long as he was notextorting; with a railer as long as he was not railing;and so on. It would be interesting to know the difference if there is one.

The people were commanded on Pentecost to repentand be baptized (Acts 2:38; and then later to repentand be converted (Acts 3:19). Since repentance is aturning away from sin and turning to God, thewashing away of sins by baptism cannot be accomplished without repentance being made. Onecannot therefore be cleansed from sin while at the same time continuing in sin or sinful relationshipsand this applies to a sinful marriage as well as anything else.

With regard to the second matter of marriage beingrecognized by God, I believe it is sufficient to pointout that marriage is the oldest institution we know.It goes back long, long before the church. In thebeginning God ordained the sacred union of man andwoman. "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and theyshall be one flesh" (Gen. 2:24). The Hebrew writer restates the importance of such by saying, "Marriageis honorable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge" (Heb. 13:4). Jesus further stated in Matthew 19:4-6 ". . . have ye not read, that he which made them at thebeginning made them male and female, and said, forthis cause shall a man leave father and mother, andshall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one

flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but oneflesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder." Truly God recognizes a marriage whether it be a heathen or a Christian. Baptism will not cleanse a situation which has beenbrought on by a failure to recognize God's provisionfor a separation (Matt. 19:9).

Let us pray that we may weather the storm andstand upon that rock which is Christ. If no man stands with us and yet we stand with God, we do notstand alone.

The child of God is called to war against the wilesof Satan (Eph. 6:1013). A constant battle is fought,between good and evil, which involves every man and woman on earth. The war is not a physical one,fought on an earthly battlefield, visible to the human eye. It is a spiritual war, a battle within the mind of man. Of course, the results of that struggle will beseen in our actions. But the struggle itself takes place within us. James teaches that we are tempted by ourown lusts, and we sin by submitting to evil desires(Jas. 1:13 15). Paul described the war within himself,saying, "For the good that I would I do not: but theevil which I would not, that I do" (Rom. 7:19). Everyone of us knows what it means to do that which we know is wrong.

Its Reality

The reality of this inner struggle is denied bysome, who think that a true Christian will be freefrom all problems with sin. Perhaps they fear that anadmission of an inward battle will be cause to question their conversion. However, the opposite istrue. If one has no struggle with temptation, he musthave already surrendered to Satan. Only those who fight against sin will feel an inward war. If the apostle Paul was forced to buffet his body to bring itinto subjection (1 Cor. 9:27), should we not also? IfTimothy needed to fight in order to lay hold oneternal life (1 Tim. 6:12), can we expect less?

Its Importance

The importance of the inward war in God's scheme of redemption should be realized by all Christians.God could have forced our perfect obedience; or atleast could have made righteousness easier byeliminating temptation. But God's love is seen in that He gives man a choice between sin and righteousness. And by means of this choice, God's children are separated from the children of Satan. Ifno inward battle existed, no blessing would be given in overcoming temptation (Jas. 1:12). Without this struggle salvation would have no meaning and heaven would be no reward.

Victory

The one refreshing part of the spiritual war is thatvictory over sin is possible for all. "God is faithful,who will not suffer you to be tempted above that yeare able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it" (1Cor. 10:13). "There is therefore now no condemnationto them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not afterthe flesh, but after the Spirit" (Rom. 8:1). Paul was comforted in his final years with the expectation of receiving a crown of righteousness. We too can anticipate such a reward if we fight a good fight,keeping the faith (2 Tim. 4:6-8). Salvation is within our grasp. Victory, though not an easy goal, can beobtained by faithfully serving the Lord. "If God befor us, who can be against us?" (Rom. 8:31).

Page 17

THE LEFT OVERS

Now and then we need a page just to catch up a fewodds and ends, say something about future plans andalso do some promotional work for the paper. This isjust such a page.

GOOD THINGS TO COME

We have already announced that Eugene Britnellhas returned to our columns with a regular feature.Articles from him appeared in July and August andhis material will soon appear with regularity. He isnot only an excellent writer but one of the best promoters of new subscriptions we have ever had. Ifall of our writers and a few of our readers would helpas he does, we would have those 10,000 subscribers bythe end of 1979, hands down.

-------------- o -------------------MARK, THE PHYSICIAN

Bible students are accustomed to hearing about"Luke, the beloved physician. Well, beginning inJanuary, 1979 we will begin a new feature in this paperwritten by Mark, the physician. He is Mark Lloyd, Sr.,

M.D. of Gainesville, Florida. He is a rheumatologist, a faithful Christian, an able Bible student and a deaconin the Northeast congregation in Gainesville, He andhis good wife are also personal friends and their parents have been friends of long standing. He is welltrained, competent and highly respected by hiscolleagues in the medical profession in his area.

He will write several articles a year dealing withBible diseases, health problems as they relate to Biblepassages and principles, and hopefully will give us all abetter appreciation of the body God gave us and howwe can better preserve it and make it fit for theMaster's use. He will not have time to correspond withreaders nor offer free medical opinions. He will simplyhelp us to "search the scriptures" in the areas defined.We look forward to this new and interesting columnfrom "Mark, the beloved physician."

GROVER STEVENS ON CATHOLICISM

Also in January we plan to begin a series by GroverStevens on Catholicism, one which will run for a yearor more. With the recent election of a new pope with allthe publicity that received, this is an appropriate time for such a study. Brother Stevens is well equipped topresent this material. It will cover a wide range ofCatholic doctrine and practice—the kind of materialyou will want to keep for future study and use.

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THE AUGUST SPECIAL

Our August special issue on "The Church—LiveIssues Old and New" has now sold out two printings,orders are still coming in and we have ordered a thirdprinting which will be ready in October (when thisissue of the paper is run). This will likely be the final printing. If you still did not get those extra copies youwanted to give to friends caught up in institutionalism, then get your order in soon. We havebeen pleased by the eager reception given this specialissue. It looks now as if our circulation of this one issue will exceed 18,000, or possibly 20,000. We are sorrysome had to be put on back-order to await re-printing.

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PURELY PERSONAL

Many have inquired of our health since the word gotout that we spent some time in the hospital inGainesville, Florida in July. The problem is arthritisinvolving three cervical disks, aggravated by stressand muscular tension, bursitis and tendinitis in oneshoulder and arm. I have been "told" (not "asked1") tocut back on some of my meeting work and am trying torearrange my schedule so that I will not have morethan two meetings in any one month instead of three,which had become the case nearly every month fromMarch through November. Medication, exercise and regular therapy seem to have things under controlpresently. But thanks for your inquiries, prayers, calls,cards and other expressions of concern.

Help Our Subscription Drive

We are expecting to have a mailing list of 10,000 each month by the end of 1979.That will complete twenty years of operation of the paper. Not many religious journalssurvive that long. There are yet many homes of Christians in this land which receiveno religious paper whatever. Oh yes, they take daily newspapers, all sorts ofmagazines, have expensive television sets (sometimes two or three to keep downconflict among children over what program is to be seen when), have boating,fishing, camping and golfing equipment—but not one good religious paper.

Not only would it be good for YOU to receive such a paper monthly, but such apaper makes an excellent gift for a friend or relative. The single subscription rate is $6a year in advance. In clubs of four or more the rate is $5 a year. You can send it to 15 ofyour friends for $5 a month ($60 a year) dropping the price to $4 a year in these special groups.

PREACHER CHANGES CONVICTIONS

CHARLIE GARRISON, % Ollie Garrison, Rt. 5, Box 292, Mur-freesboro, TN 37130 — Since I graduated from preacher school in1972, I have tried to preach sound doctrine while at the same timeuphold some parts of institutionalism. As you might guess, I haveinvariably clashed both with myself and with those with whom I have worked. Finally. I saw the obvious: I needed to stop and takestock. I have made an honest and thorough research and find that Ihave been wrong. In spite of my best efforts I could not find onescripture to uphold the following:

1. Where one church could oversee the work of another church.
2. Where one church sent money to another church for a work towhich both were related.
3. Where the Lord's church has any right to make donations toany kind of human institutions.
4. Where the Lord's church has any right to spend its money for the entertainment of anyone.

Brethren, though it is hard to find myself at odds with some of mybest friends, I believe it right and fair to the brotherhood that I takemy stand for truth and put it in print. I am now ready to go to workwith a congregation involved in scriptural work while opposed tothese errors I have repudiated. I shall need your help and prayers.My thanks to Connie W. Adams and those who write for SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES and to several good debates onthe subject, for helping me to see the truth. Call me at (615) 8906070.

New Workbook Recommended

J. T. SMITH, Long Beach, California —I recently received a copy of a workbook on the subject of '"What Must I Do To Be Saved?" written by Keith Sharp of Conway. Arkansas. There are thirteenlessons in this book of 108 pages, with charts and diagrams byCharles Nelson. It begins with a study of what the Bible is, thenleads up to what one must do to be saved, and concludes bydiscussing the destiny of man and why one should be a Christian. Itis a complete book in every respect for class study with reading material, questions for review, and an open Bible examination. It may be purchased for $2.00 from Religious Supply Center, P.O. Box13164, Louisville, KY 40213. I believe it is an excellent book for class study.

California Spanish Work

MEL ROSE, 8221 Somers Dr., Anaheim, CA 92804 — The new Spanish church is now in its fourth month and doing quite well. The new converts are growing spiritually, and becoming more faithfuland dependable. Some were in the habit of arriving late, even verylate, to most of the services. When private exhortations were unavailing, we took the matter "to the pulpit" one Sunday morning,using 1 Cor. 14:40 as our text. Some of the offenders were "stung"by the rebuke, and one even said he was going to "quit the church!"However, we talked to them privately afterwards, and exhortedthem to consider the harm their practice (and bad example)manifested. I am pleased to say that we no longer have the problem!It is a pleasure to work with brethren who are teachable. (Editor's Note: With such success for this common problem, I predict thatbrother Rose will now be besieged by brethren throughout thecountry to find out exactly what he said in the pulpit and privately afterwards which brought such favorable results. Some of us havehad some experience with brethren who were not quite that teachable.)

New Congregation in La Grange, Kentucky

On the afternoon of April 16, 1978 the Walnut Avenue church ofChrist had its initial service in Production Credit Association building in LaGrange, Kentucky. With twenty-seven in attendance all were encouraged that a congregation of saints might indeed becommenced and perpetuated in this rapidly developing area nearand northeast of Louisville. The following Lord's Day, services were conducted at our present location at 201 N. Walnut Ave., LaGrange, KY 40031.

By the dedicated work and prayers of the members, and with theassistance and encouragement of individuals and sister congregations, the work has shown steady progress. Presently,attendance is in the mid-thirties, with good promise of being in theforties in early fall.

Not wanting unstable growth, the members determined twothings: first, to get to know one another better; and second, to makea diligent effort to contact any and all members of the Lord's bodywho would, or might be, interested in being a fellow-laborer withthem. Part of this was accomplished by having a four-day meeting inMay with Ed Rhodes (the present preacher! speaking in that series.Having already manifested an ardent and sincere desire to seek onlythat truth which makes man free, the membership believes manysouls will be brought to the Savior. We meet on Lord's Day forworship at 10 AM with Bible study following and at 6 in the evening.Bible study is conducted at 7:30 on Wednesday nights.

JIMMY TUTEN, JR., 8169 Greenridge Rd., Charleston Heights,SC 29405 — The past two months have been good to us in spite of areal serious "summer slump" which hopefully will end after LaborDay. Our home studies and outside efforts to reach the public havebeen hindered by vacations. Yet, two have been baptized in the pasttwo months. In August we started a Ladies class which promises tobe another highlight in the work here. Needless to say, there aredisappointments. The work is slow and very, very difficult. Growth

Page 19

will not come easy in an atmosphere of transmigration broughtabout by military complexities. The "here today, gone tomorrow"philosophy causes people to refrain from making even spiritual commitments.

The Ashley Heights church, though small, is dedicated and for themost part united in all aspects. There are no serious problems facingus and we have some of the most faithful saints to be found anywhere with which to work. We have had a number of summervisitors to historic Charleston. Several out-of-staters have sent names of prospects. Please continue doing this.

My fall meeting schedule is as follows: Sept. 4-10, Plymouth,N.C.; Sept. 18-24, Richlands, Va.; Oct. 2-8, Gordon, Georgia; ourown meeting here Oct. 23-29 and then Nov. 6-12 will find me inChicago, Ill.

SONG LEADER AND TEACHER NEEDED

SEMINOLE, TEXAS — We are very interested in locating ayoung man with family to move here and help us by directing the song service, helping in home Bible studies, preach some, and generally help this congregation. We will help in supplementing hislivelihood and with moving expenses, but he will have to work at secular work also to have adequate support. If interested, pleasewrite: Elders, Avenue B Church of Christ, P.O. Box 516, Seminole, TX 79360. Or call (915) 758-3701.

PERSONAL FROM THE EDITOR

THE AUGUST' SPECIAL — The first printing has alreadysold out and we have ordered a second which we hope to havelong before any of you receive this October issue. The response to it has surpassed our fondest hopes. A good part of thesecond printing is already spoken for. We regret the fact that somewho ordered extra papers received them so late. The printer wasmore than a week later than promised in completing the work,and we

have been having great problems with postal service in certainparts of the country. We have absolutely no control over that,though we are in the process of determining how and to whom tolodge a formal complaint.

THE JULY ISSUE — We must also apologize for the July issue being mailed out as late as it was. We have never been that late withan issue going out since we have been editing the paper. There was apress breakdown with our printer which backed up their work andbrought on most of that delay. We thank all for your patience andassure each reader that we are making every effort to keep our partof the bargain to meet agreed upon deadlines. We cannot alwayscontrol the other parties upon whom we depend to uphold their endof the bargain.

IN RESPONSE TO JAMES W. ADAMS — H E . Phillips ispreparing a response to the two articles written by James W. Adamswhich appeared in the GOSPEL GUARDIAN in recent issues. It ismy conviction that I have stated my own view of this matter clearlyand in a proper spirit and feel that nothing more should be said by me, at this point, as it relates to the editor of the GOSPEL GUARDIAN. While the article being prepared by brother Phillipswill bring to a close our direct differences with brother Adams himself, that does not mean that we shall not carry material on thesubject of marriage, divorce and remarriage whenever we think itgood to do so. When that time comes, we shall not seek the counselof other editors nor give fifteen seconds thought as to whether or notwhat we have to say pleases them or any of their readers. We believein autonomy for local churches, debaters and paper editors.

IN THE NEWS THIS MONTH

BAPTISMS 194

RESTORATIONS 87

(Taken from bulletins and papers received by the editor)