RELIGIOUS FANATICISM

"Fanaticism" is defined as: "excessive and unreasonable enthusiasm or zeal: as, religious fanaticism." (Webster's New World Dictionary)

Fanaticism in any area of life is dangerous and nonproductive. Religious fanaticism is the fruit of ignorance of divine truth while in pursuit of acceptance by God or some supposed superior being. The blind obedience to the semi-gods who establish and direct the various cults, in which is found the most extreme religious fanaticism, is incredible.

Religious fanaticism and religious hypocrisy are notexactly the same, but they are closely related. Fanaticism is the product of hypocrisy and/or ignorance. The religious hypocrite plays his gamewell, and he creates devotees to himself and his causewho blindly follow his dictates, even unto death.Such is the case of the currently publicized self-destruction of about 900 members of "Rev.. Jim Jones" followers in Jonestown, near Georgetown, Guyana. They were members of the "People's Temple" based in California.

The advocates of atheism, and those who hold anyanti-religious position, immediately seize upon anywidely publicized account of the fruits of religiousfanaticism of some cult to show the curse of religion upon mankind. You may be sure that the "pure andundefiled religion" from above will come under condemnation by atheistic communism of Russia andChina, as well as all the countries of the world that are satellites to these world powers.

On the front page of the Tampa Tribune of November 23, 1978, The Associated Press reported

some statements from Tass, the official news agency

of Russia, on the mass suicide of hundreds of

followers of the "Rev. Jim Jones" in Guyana. The

report says, "The Soviet press, in a sharper dig than

most, said the bizarre poisoning death rite in remote

Jonestown, Guyana, was a symptom of the American

way of life in which 'millions are the victims of an

inhumane society.1 "

The official Tass news agency said American

press coverage of the events in Guyana avoids the

fundamental question of why the People's Temple and

many similar religious sects exist in the United

States.

"Only a few individual observers admit that what

they are talking about is one of the products of the

notorious 'American way of life.'"

The lying hypocrisy of Russian communism doesnot disturb me as much as fanatical religious cultsthat provide occasion for such comments by the enemies of both democracy and Christianity. But there are other enemies of truth and righteousnessthat are much more dangerous to us than the officialRussian news agency. These enemies are among usand hide under the cloak of pretense to righteousness."Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an example.(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemiesof the cross of Christ: whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in theirshame, who mind earthly things.)" (Phil. 3:17-19).

The heinous crimes and inhumane treatment committed in the name of religion stagger the imagination. But this hypocrisy in "righteousness"existed while Christ was upon earth. The account inMatthew 23 of the sharp and pointed condemnationof the scribes and Pharisees is the teaching of Christ.It shows the utter disgust for all forms of hypocrisyin the claim to righteousness.

The rebellion in the 1960's and the charismatic-Pentecostal off-shoots that were bred by hypocriticalleaders of sects and cults is still very much alive. The"Flower Children," "Jesus People," "Temple of Satan," Charles Manson's "Family," and "Rev. Jim Jones" and his "People's Temple" are all the

products of the religious fanaticism that is invadingsome churches of Christ,

The Self-Righteous

A self-righteous person is either hypocritical or blindly ignorant of what righteousness is. Often it isa combination of both. Jesus spoke a parable unto"certain which trusted in themselves that they wererighteous, and despised others" (Luke 18:9). Jesus warned his disciples against hypocrisy in righteousness. "Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy" (Luke 12:1). Whatdoes this mean? When is one playing the hypocrite inhis claim for righteousness? Jesus gave some specifics.

"Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do notsound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do inthe synagogues and in the streets, that they may haveglory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward" (Matt. 6:2). "And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love topray standing in the synagogues and in the cornersof the streets, that they may be seen of men. VerilyI say unto you, They have their reward" (Matt. 6:5).

Many will give nothing to the needy unless theycan "sound a trumpet" and call attention of all to what they are doing. Their "alms" are more for the glory and praise from men than to help others andglorify the Father which is in heaven. Many prayersare made for the purpose of impressing men's ears rather than expressing our hearts to God. This is hypocrisy in the same form as it appeared in thePharisees.

Hypocrisy in self-righteousness is further seen inthe vain worship that comes by the doctrines of men."Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you,saying, This people draweth nigh unto me with theirmouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but theirheart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men"(Matt. 15:7-9). This same hypocritical righteousnessis at work in many parts of the country and drawingfrom many faithful churches of Christ those sincere,but untaught, babes in Christ, the emotionallyunstable, and the misfits from society into the "celltype Devotional-Emotionalism." The "Jesus People"started that way. Charles Manson started his cult inthat manner. And from all information in the news media the "Rev. Jim Jones" began his fanatical religion in that way. From this small commune type "extra-righteous" group of devotees will grow the fanatical religious cult that will blind the minds of itsmembers to the righteousness of God, and in theprocess will bind them to some radical leader whobecomes some kind of god to them.

The hypocrisy of the Pharisees made itself known in the self-righteousness of this religious sect. The emphasis was on the external appearances ratherthan on the condition of the heart. Self-righteousnessrejects Christ and centers all things upon self (Rom. 10:1-3; 2 Tim. 3:5). Through ignorance of what God says, one sets about to establish a form of rightdoing by his own standard. This is an act of rejectionof the word of God.

Hypocrisy causes one to establish a dual standardin righteousness: one for himself and another for therest of mankind. The beam and the mote of which Jesus spoke in Matthew 7 is proof of this. "Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine owneye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out themote out of thy brother's eye" (Matt. 7:5).

It is time to expose and oppose all forms of "selfrighteous" fanaticism and hypocrisy wherever it maybe found. Self-conceit and pride must go. The doctrine of men must be opposed without favor andcompromise.

IN THE NEWS THIS MONTH BAPTISMS RESTORATIONS (Taken from bulletins and papers received by the editor)

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WHAT DO YOU READ?

"For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he" (Prov.23:7). "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things arejust, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever thingsare lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; ifthere be any virtue, and if there be any praise, thinkon these things" (Phil. 4:8). "For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh" (Mt.12:34). There is no doubt about it. None of us canever be any better than that which fills our hearts.What we choose to think upon will have a markedeffect upon our character and behaviour.

It should be the aim of every Christian to bring "into captivity every thought to the obedience ofChrist" (2 Cor, 10:5). The mind of the Christian issought by the Devil. Evil philosophies compete tocontrol the thought processes of the people of theworld. Once people have forfeited their right to thinkfor themselves they are then conditioned for whateverform of tyranny may be thrust upon them by thosewho have fed their minds with error. The recent tragedy in Guyana is a case in point. Communism is a system of mind control. Catholicism has alwaysthrived upon ignorance and has told the masses thatthey could not understand the Bible on their own.The priesthood must decide and tell them what tobelieve.

Christians must discipline themselves to "think Christ's thoughts after him." Paul wrote "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus" (Phil.2:5). While we are free to think, to choose and to act,we are not free before God to do as we please withoutregard for the will of God. It is for this reason thatChristians must choose to think upon that whichelevates and ennobles the spirit. The concept thatman is nothing more than a graduated animal withno eternal destiny has done much to destroy self-respect and human dignity. Such philosophy iscalculated to result in licentious practices of everykind.

The Value of Good Literature

In a world of R and X rated movies, soap operas,adult book stores, best seller novels, girlie magazines,and television vulgarities, we must emphasize again and again the need to think upon things that arehigher and nobler. The power of the written word inshaping thought and action is seen in the fact that God, Himself, chose this medium in revealing his mind to mankind. Nothing can take the place ofreading the word of God. One is blessed who delightsin the law of the Lord and upon it meditates, day andnight (Psa. 1:2).

Down through the years the written words of faithful servants of God have done much to enlighten,to expose error and to inspire God's people to do right. The periodical, such as the one you hold in yourhand right now, has been a very forceful and usefultool in thrashing out, sifting and sorting ideas andissues which Christians have to decide. Such a medium has not always been properly used. It iscapable of great abuse. Some have had short lives (most of them fall into that category) while others (arelative few) have survived for decades. Some whichonce served a great and useful purpose have lived longenough to fall into the hands of those whose aims werefar different from those who brought them into beinginitially. The fact that a good thing may be abuseddoes not argue against the thing itself. Congregations can and do go astray but we continueto begin new ones. When a paper reaches the placethat it serves an evil purpose, then faithful Christiansought not to support it.

But we fail to catch the logic of those who will spend $60-$70 a year for a daily newspaper, $800 fora color television set, $100 a year for assorted magazines, $400-$500 for a set of encyclopedias tohelp their children with their school work, but who donot own a concordance, Bible dictionary, Bible atlas,or read a single gospel paper.

Nineteen Going On Twenty

With this issue of SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES, we begin our twentieth year of operation. H.

E. Phillips and James P. Miller gave the paper birth and nourished it through the difficult years of itsearly history. In June, 1973 the present editor began to serve. Not many papers survive this long, I amrealistic enough to know that much of the success of the paper is due to the work done by those who havegone before and I simply build upon their foundation.But we have continued to enjoy the support ofreaders throughout the nation and around the worldand have been able to increase our circulation. We are now approaching the 8,000 mark in monthlycirculation and are now launching a campaign to reach10,000 monthly circulation by the end of this, our twentieth year of service.

Will You Help Us?

There are several things our readers can do to help.Tell others about the paper. Show them your copy orask them to read some article which you foundespecially helpful. When your children grow up andmove away from home, subscribe for them and keepan old friend coming into their home. When you renew your own subscription, why not send in a club of subscriptions, or at least subscribe for one otherperson. If 1500 of our present subscribers would dothis, in fact, if 1,000 of them would, with the normalincrease from month to month we experience anyhow,we would be well over the 10,000 mark by the end ofthis year, or even before that time. We also ask the

help of those whose material regularly appears in the paper. Eugene Britnell sends in a club or subscriptions from every place he goes. To the other writers we say "Go thou and do likewise." You will be helping to expand your own readingaudience and thus enlarge the potential for good fromyour own efforts. Some of our readers could pay for alist of subscriptions. For $60 a year ($5 a month) youcan send the paper to 12 people. How many of you cando this? Will you do it?

To all who send us a club or 10 or more subscriptions during this, our twentieth year, we will send free a copy of Gene Tope's inspirational book, TRAILBLAZERS FOR CHRIST. This paperback book is based upon his 18 years of workin South Africa. It will make you laugh and cry. It will prick your conscience and do you good. When we receive your list of 10 subscriptions, we will mailthis book to you as soon as possible.

Rate Increase

As much as we hate to do it, increasing costs ofprinting and postage make it necessary that we raisethe single subscription rate to $7 a year. This will apply only to new subs. The club rate for 4 or more isnow $6 a year. In groups of 12 or more, the rate is$5 a year but this only applies to groups paid by asingle individual. We do not have a non-profitpermit. We operate on a second-class permit but paythe same rate as READER'S DIGEST or other magazines which sell advertising space. For the present we have no plans to change our type ofpermit. Our postal rates are much higher than those papers which mail under a non-profit second classpermit. Even so, our subscription rate is in line withother papers of equal size.

What do you read? We believe this paper will makea worthy addition to your family reading material.Surely the offerings of such writers as H. E. Phillips, Marshall Patton, Eugene Britnell, Thomas G. O'Neal, Ward Hogland, J. T. Smith, Julian Snell, Wiley Adams, Gary Henry, Weldon Warnock, KenGreen, Earl Kimbrough, Dee Bowman, Rodney Millerand Mark Lloyd will build you up and help you tothink upon the very things Paul admonished us tothink upon in Philippians 4:8. There are others who contribute material all along, but these men haveagreed to write so many columns each year, some ofthem submitting material monthly. What do youthink? Pass this copy on to someone who is not nowreceiving the paper and see what that person thinksabout it. We shall continue to keep a balance of material which is true to the word of God and presented in a dignified manner. When we deal in controversial matters we shall try to remember thatwe are Christians and act and write accordingly. Weshall be firm but fair. If you are not now one of ourreaders, we would like to have you in that category.If you are already on the mailing list, thanks for yoursupport in the past. Please stay with us and help us grow in circulation.

INTRODUCTION

This being my first article, I think it would only be

proper to express my gratitude to Brother Connie

Adams in asking me to write for Searching the

Scriptures. I feel his ideas for these articles which are

to include Bible thoughts with respect to sound

medical principles are quite innovative and much

needed. I hope that I can fulfill his expectations as

well as provide reasonable, concise and readable

articles which the brethren will enjoy and more

importantly learn more about God's word.

It was with much trepidation on my part and friendly badgering, I might add, by the editor that Iaccepted this assignment. Writing has never been myforte, but as I continued to offer excuse after excuseto brother Adams as to why I should not, or couldnot write for Searching the Scriptures I began toremind myself of Moses and his multiple excuses asto why he could not approach Pharaoh and lead thechildren of Israel. His excuses were poor and Godhad an answer for them all and alas my excuses were even poorer and quite easily answered. Brother Adams has offered to help me in any way he can andthus I have finally accepted.

Brother Adams has left it up to me as to contentand style of the articles. His only requests have beento make the articles interesting and readable as wellas my being dependable and making a deadline. Both may be difficult, as to subject matter and applications, however, the sources are almost inexhaustible. There are a number of diseases listed in the Old and New Testament which are not well understood with which we can deal. For instance: palsy and leprosy. Actually leprosy was avery general term for a number of infectious diseasesonly one of which was the "leprosy" or Hansens disease as we know it today. Other articles will concentrate on medicines and potions of Bible timesincluding myrrh and oil and wine. Paul tells us in 1Timothy 4:8 that bodily exercise profits little, but wecan discuss the meaning of this passage and howexercise can help us in our daily lives as Christians orwe attempt to fulfill God's plan for a temperate andhealthy life. How can we help protect our body whichis the "temple of the Spirit", or should we even beconcerned about our physical well being? We will discuss the problems of obesity, gluttony and intemperance and what harm these do to us physically.One interesting sidelight which will be discussed willbe the modern day practice of our good sisters of overfeeding the preacher during meetings to showour gratitude for his being there and of not being outdone by another sister.

There could be articles on "faith healing" anddocumentation of such practices with respect to realBible miraculous healing and principles of modern medicine. What Bible principles apply to such sensitive modern issues as birth control and abortion may be dealt with depending upon how brave or foolhardy I am. What are the health consequences ofsmoking? How destructive is alcohol to the organs ofour bodies will certainly be discussed. Can a Christian"smoke" marijuana and be pleasing to God? Anxietyand discontent with one's lot in life are subjects withwhich I definitely feel we need to contend.

The list is long and the subject matter is there. It is my hope only to be able to put it in its proper perspective. With God's help and your understanding and cooperation I hope we can make this series ofarticles a success, increasing your Bible knowledgeand helping you to live the life God would have us allto live.

A BAPTIST DISCUSSES THE POPE

Pilate asked Jesus, "What is truth?" That question

is ever before us, or it certainly should be. In

considering any subject of importance, and certainly

in the spiritual realm, that question should be

asked and the proper answer discovered.

Unfortunately, many do not seek the answer because

they do not ask the question. They do not ask the

question because they do not believe that there is

such a thing as truth — or that it is important.

Notwithstanding the fact that the apostle Paul

rebuked some who "walked not uprightly according

to the truth of the gospel" (Gal. 2:14), many people

feel that one should never say that something is true

or right and everything else on the subject is wrong.

Ours is an age of love everybody and condemn

nobody. This is the attitude of denominationalism and

all sectarian preachers. An example of this is what

we are to discuss in this article.

Mr. Erwin McDonald is a prominent Baptistpreacher in Arkansas. He once served as editor of the official Baptist paper of the state. He is now in semi-retirement , and writes some for the Arkansas Democrat, a daily newspaper.

In the issue of October 7, 1978, Mr. McDonald wrote an article entitled, "God's will and the death of Pope John Paul." It would be difficult to find more double-talk and compromise, yet his article is typicalof the doctrinal dexterity of one who tries to be allthings to all people and teach truth while denyingtruth.

The problem which he discussed was the selectionof Cardinal Albino Luciani as Pope John Paul, whatpart God had in the selection, and why God wouldguide in his election knowing that he was to live only34 days as pope. We present the following quotes and comments.

"If God promises his presence (and direction) 'where two or three are gathered together in my name,' how much more can he be expected to be withhundreds of millions of Christians who are uniting their hearts in a common petition, as was the case when they were praying for God's will to be done inthe naming of the new pope?"

To gather or act "in the name of the Lord" is toact by his authority. Where in the scriptures did the Lord authorize the office of pope, give his qualifications, and instructions for his selection? Wehave found no such authority. We deny that millions

of Christians — or even one true Christian — prayed

for God's will to be done in the selection of the pope,

for no informed Christian believes that the office of

pope is according to God's revealed will.

"Purely from the human viewpoint we have to ask,

how could this man have been God's choice for the

place when God knew, as surely he did, that he

would die in his sleep in a matter of weeks?"

May we suggest, with kindness and reverence, that

we leave God out of this! God had nothing to do with

the selection of the pope. If you think He did, prove

it. It seems that the gentleman is trying to get God

in a dilemma, or accuse Him of acting inconsistently.

But notice his next paragraph:

"Yet, if we conclude that Luciani could not have

been God's choice, we cannot escape another puzzling

question. If Christians in such numbers and such

sincerity of purpose were mistaken — if in spite of all

their petitions they had not found God's will — where

did they go wrong? How else, besides prayer, are

they ever to discover God's will?"

By reading God's word! God does not reveal Hiswill for man today in answer to prayer, but in Hisrevealed word, the Bible. Elsewhere in his article,Mr. McDonald refers to James 1:5, 6, but James is speaking of wisdom, not knowledge, and he says weshould ask "in faith" rather than for faith because faith comes from hearing God's word (Rom. 10:17)."Where did they go wrong?" he asks. Answer, by notreading and heeding the scriptures. Again we denythat true Christians prayed for God's guidance in theselection of a pope, for Christians do not pray forthat which is contrary to God's will.

"Some things about God's will are easily known by Christians. Indeed, in most of the decisions touchingour lives, God leaves us to make our own choices. But what of those times — such as in the selection of a pastor or pope — when so much is at stake and we can discover no clear scriptural instruction but yet mustmake a choice?"

Can the man not see and understand that the veryfact that we can "discover no clear instruction" in the Bible concerning a pope is a clear indication that Godhas not authorized such a position? God has givenclear instructions for every office or work He wantedin His church; for example, elders and deacons (ITim. 3; Titus 1). And God has given "clear scripturalinstruction" that Christ is THE head of THE church, THE body (Eph. 1:22, 23; 5:23) and that leaves noroom for another head. Another question is in order:Where do we learn that we "must make a choice" of one man as pope from a college of cardinals when theword of God says absolutely nothing about either?

"Although I have questions about the seemingly untimely death of the new pope — questions for which I do not have the answers — I definitely feelthat God answered the prayers of millions in allowingAlbino Luciani to become Pope John Paul. . . . It may be, for instance, that John Paul, in his humilityand his great love and concern for just ordinarypeople, will be used by God to narrow the gap andbring the Catholic people closer to their top pastor."

Does he, as a Baptist, believe that God has

authorized the papacy? Evidently he does, but his

position is in direct conflict with traditional Baptist

doctrine. To our knowledge, no Baptist creed teaches

the office of pope, and the majority of them are

outspoken against Catholicism. If God "answered the

prayers of millions" and the pope was "used by

God," then God surely approved the selection of a

pope. If Mr. McDonald believes that, and can prove

it by the scriptures (which would be more than he can

do for the denomination he is in) then why isn't he a

Catholic? If I believed that God is pleased with the

pope, I would join the Catholic Church. And where

does the Bible speak of a "top pastor" or even "a

pastor" in any way? That term is used in the

scriptures only in describing a plurality of men who

serve in a congregation, also known as bishops,

elders, presbyters and overseers. There is no

scriptural authority for "a pastor" in a church, or

the "top pastor" over the universal church.

"As a Southern Baptist I am grieved at the passing of John Paul, not so much for him as for hispeople. If he was what he professed to be, a believerand follower of Christ — which I have no reason to doubt — he is in the presence of the Lord now to anextent he could never be on earth."

As a Christian, I deny that! The gentleman is teaching salvation in the Catholic Church, yet he is aBaptist. There is little similarity between the Baptist Church and Catholicism. Their teaching and practiceis different on almost any subject one can think about. Our friend believes that he can be saved as a Baptist, and the pope was saved as a Catholic. He feels that one can be "a follower of Christ" while practicing either Baptist doctrine or Catholicism. It would seem that there is no truth and error, no rightand wrong. According to the denominational conceptof religion, "truth" is whatever one wants to believe,every man becomes a law unto himself, and no one is wrong.

In view of what we have observed, and the typicalsectarian attitude, we close our study by joining withPilate to ask: "What is truth?"

(EDITOR'S NOTE: It gives the editor great pleasure,and we hope pardonable parental pride, to introduceto our readers the writing of our older son, WilsonAdams. He has been preaching often since he was 15years of age, filling appointments through his high school days. While attending Florida College in Tampa, Florida, he spoke a number of times at Fletcher Avenue and other places in the Tampa Bayarea, preached during one school year every Sunday atWest Palm Beach and then another year at Lady Lake, Florida. He spent one summer preaching at Vandalia, Illinois, another summer working with Wayne Chappel with the Lockland church in Cincinnati, Ohio and this past summer worked withRodney Miller and the good Par St. church in Orlando,Florida. He is married to the former Teresa Jackson of El Toro, California. Since September, 1978 he hasbeen preaching full time with the church in Roanoke,Virginia where a good work is under way. "I have nogreater joy than to know that my children walk intruth."

PAUL'S THREE I AM'S

Three times in Romans 1:14-16, Paul uses the phrase, "I am," in describing his relationship to thegospel of Christ and to those in need of the gospel.He says:

I am under obligation both to the Greeks and

to barbarians, both to the wise and to the

foolish.

Thus, for my part, I am eager to preach the

gospel to you also who are in Rome. For I am

not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power

of God for salvation to every one who

believes, to the Jew first and also to the

Greek. (EMP. MINE — DWA)

Each verse carries with it an important message as itshows the love that Paul had for the gospel. This same attitude, as expressed by the apostle in theseverses, should also be characteristic of all of us in our day and time (Heb. 13:8). We would do well to followthe example of Paul.

I Am Under Obligation

There is no doubt that Paul was under obligation(or a "debtor" — KJV) to preach Christ to all those who would listen. He realized this obligation andfulfilled it like a true soldier should. On more than one occasion this meant opposition, but oppositionnever de-toured Paul from his obligation. Why was he so obligated? Paul was obligated (or under debt) because of the saving power of the gospel (Vs. 16). Itwas he who had been chosen to be instrumental in carrying the gospel to the Gentiles (Acts 9:15).Furthermore, Paul was an apostle and to this group of men was given the charge to "preach the gospel to every creature" (Mk. 16:15). Thus, Paul was under obligation to share this "good news" with all men.

As the gospel calls us today, are we not under obligation to teach it to others? This is the duty of allChristians. For example, if we see a drunkard lyingon a railroad track and do nothing to save him fromthe on-coming locomotive, are we not partly to blamefor his death? If I see a man drowning and refuse tothrow him the life jacket in my hand, am I not guiltyof his death? And, if I see thousands of lost soulsand do not even attempt to teach them the truth — AM I NOT GUILTY, IF THEY DIE WITHOUT CHRIST? We all have neighbors, loved ones, and friends who are in need of the greatest giftof all — the gospel! We talk with them about everything else — WHY NOT THE GOSPEL? It all involves a love for lost souls. Paul had this love and he showed it time and time again as he preachedChrist amid trial and tribulation. This same love is what drives some to sell their belongings and move toa foreign country to preach the gospel without all theconveniences of home. This same love is what causes some to stand up and preach the truth even whenthey may be in the minority. This same love is what causes some to put the Lord's church FIRST, realizing that all secular matters will fall into their proper place. If a preacher, or any Christian, feels noresponsibility in spreading the gospel, then there isnot a proper love for the soul that is lost. One of the great commandments is to, "love your neighbor as yourself." How is this possible if we have the truthand refuse to share it?

I Am Eager

Paul not only felt a certain obligation but he wasEAGER to preach the gospel. Wouldn't it be wonderful if this was characteristic of all Christians? Sad to say, this is not the case. How many timeshave you heard: "You mean I have to go to all theservices?" or "How much do I have to give?" Does this sound very eager to you in regard to the Lord's work? The problem is that while we do feel acertain amount of obligation towards the gospel, we are a long way from being eager to spread it sometimes!

In Acts 9:18-22 we see that IMMEDIATELY after Paul was converted he began to proclaim Christ. Thisreminds me of many individuals, who after becomingChristians, are really "on fire for the Lord." They arezealous and cannot do enough in His service. However, at the first hint of a problem, or should atemptation come their way, their zeal for the Lord islost and they return again to the ways of the world(Matt. 13:20-21). This was just the opposite in thelife of Paul. Immediately he began to preach thegospel and his zeal continued until his death. He told Timothy, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; in thefuture there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge,will award to me on that day; and not only to me,but to all who have loved His appearing" (2 Tim. 4:78). We need to be eager in preaching the gospel,having a zeal based upon the word of God. Such wascharacteristic of the life of Paul.

I Am Not Ashamed

Paul was not ashamed of the gospel because, "it isthe power of God to salvation" (Vs. 16). However, hehad not always had this attitude as he used to marchfrom city to city binding those who were in "the Way" (Acts 9:1-2). Paul was honest but honestlymistaken. As soon as he found that his conscience had been leading him astray his honesty showed forth and he ceased to be in error. What a lesson to be learned from this today as many continue in denominationalism, not willing to change and to obeythe gospel of Christ. If only all were as Paul!

There are some Christians, I'm afraid, who act as if they are ashamed of the gospel. There are some preachers who preach as if they are ashamed of thegospel. Too many are timid and afraid to speak outBOLDLY as they ought to speak (Acts 9:27). We must remember that it is error, not truth, that divides and as long as we speak the truth of God's word we have nothing to fear. Surely, there will bedisappointments along the way but we need not letdisappointments turn into discouragement. Paul didnot, and he underwent more cruelty in relation to hispreaching than any of us ever will (2 Cor. 11:22-28).Paul was courageous, even as he stood before thosewho opposed him. May we be as Paul in realizing ourOBLIGATION to preach the word, being EAGER tofulfill that obligation, and in speaking out boldly inthe name of Christ, NOT ASHAMED of "the Way ofthe Lord" to which WE belong.

THE NEED FOR STUDY OF OLD TESTAMENT PROPHECY

In Louisville there is a large 10-story-plusinsurance building on the Watterson Expressway thatfolks delight in describing as the building which wasbuilt from the top story down. Of course it is strangeto conceive of a high office building, the top story ofwhich was constructed first, and then followed by theother floors until the completion reached the ground.

Yet, in Bible study we are no less confused, because we try to start at the TOP and build down tothe ground all the time. When we neglect theProphets which paved the way for the coming of theMessiah and study only the New Testament fulfillment, we are neglecting the foundation of God'splan, — and building from the TOP down. The consequence of this failure is seen in almost everyform of religious error that has ripped asunder the body of Christ. We have seen generation after generation mature without any concept of the mission, function, and purpose of the church. We have seen the church turned into a social club for recreation, into a Red Cross Center for World Benevolence, or into amotel lethargic, — sleeping disciples that want to soothe their consciences by "Sunday-morning-onlyChristianity." Why? Why has this type of error invaded brethren to such a degree that much of thebrotherhood is divided over benevolence,institutionalism, and recreation, only to find those notguilty of that asleep in Zion with a ritualistic approach to Christianity? The answer must come from the pages of prophecy, some of the richest material in all the Word of God, which ought to fill our hearts, lives and worship as we observe what Godpromised in His prophecy and then compare to see if that's what we are today. If we were to be something other than what the Prophets saw down the stream of time, then we would know change was needed on our part.

We must cover the Basics of Prophecy to understand the glory of New Testament fulfillments.It is impossible for a student in mathematics to master differential equations in calculus until the basics of algebra and trigonometry are fullyunderstood. The Lord understood this all too well as His plan to establish his kingdom began to unfold. He came first to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. Why? Because they had been studying the basics, they had been in God's home-study course for 1,500 years, and now they were given the first opportunity

to connect what the Prophecy had taught them

concerning the fulfillment which the Lord had come

to bring. Time after time the Lord went back to the

Prophets and brought to the Jewish mind the

prophetic truths, connecting them with His

fulfillment, and concluded with the application to

their lives. Notice in Luke 24 there are two examples

of this in one chapter. First, verse 27: "Beginning

with Moses and with all the Prophets, He explained

to them the things concerning Himself in all the

Scriptures." Secondly, verse 44: ". . . that all things

which are written about me in the Law of Moses and

the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled." In

these two illustrations, He connects past prophecy

with present fulfillment, and then issues the

application in verse 49: "you are to remain in

Jerusalem until you are clothed with power and then

you will proclaim first in Jerusalem, second in Judea

and Samaria and thirdly, even to the remotest part of

the earth" (Acts 1:8).

If we try to mature brethren in Christ by any othermethod of teaching, we are missing the Divine example. If we preach only "application" (which isabsolutely necessary) by itself, we will lack the force of Scripture. We must return to the Divine method, — first, teach the Prophecy, secondly, teachthe fulfillment and thirdly, teach the application.Then and only then are we showing the Unity ofGod's truth from Genesis to Revelation, which is the golden thread of redemption of man. Then and only then are we demonstrating the Divine system ofchecks and balances which shows that Scriptures are not twisted or misapplied. On one side of the scale isthe prophecy, on the other side is the fulfillment, and the question is do they balance? If our fulfillment islight or shy, then we know we are wrong. If it doesbalance, then we have built the faith to drive home the Divine application in our lives. When we fail to establish this overall procedure in our Bible study, webecome like the student that cheats himself by reading "clift notes," the outline summary, ratherthan the entire book for his book report. Or, we arelike the reader of a mystery who only reads the lastchapter to see "if the butler did it," as opposed to reading the entire novel.

Our Bible study programs must by design seek toaccomplish this overall view of the Bible in the mindsof our students. When we follow the Master's method, we teach (1) first Old Testament Scripture and (2) New Scripture, and (3) application and theresult will be a guard against apostasy, both individually and collectively. It is for this reason that Jehovah cries by the pen of Jeremiah (7:25) "Sincethe day your fathers came out of the land of Egyptuntil this day I have sent you all my servants the Prophets, daily rising early and sending them". Thenagain, in Jeremiah 25:4, "The Lord has sent to youall His servants the Prophets again and again, butyou have not listened nor inclined your ear to hear . . .

THE GRACE — FELLOWSHIP ISSUE — NO. 7 SINS OF IGNORANCE

Calvinism teaches that the grace of God covers the

sins of a saint so that he can never sin so as to be

eternally lost.

The New Unity Movement (NUM) teaches a modified view of this grace. Upon the condition of "aHEART OF FAITH" THE NUM teaches that the grace of God covers sins of ignorance and weaknessesof the flesh so that the child of God will not be lost because of such sins. This "heart of faith" is arbitrarily defined (See article No. 5 in this series,Faith And Works, Vol. 19, No. 10, Oct. 1978) Upon this basis the NUM seeks to extend fellowship to sincere brethren in error.

The issue in this study is pin-pointed by thefollowing questions, frequently posed by the NUM tothe opposition: 1) Do you know everything? 2) Areyou guilty of sins of which you are not aware? 3)How can one repent of and confess specifically that ofwhich he is not aware? If one answers No. 1 negatively; No. 2 affirmatively, and No. 3 "He can't," and then seeks to justify himself upon thegrounds of a general repentance and confession, theNUM accuses him of inconsistency. This inconsistency is seen in not extending the condition of general repentance and confession to the sincere brother who does not yet know the truth on instrumental music in worship, church organization,Premillennialism, etc. Thus, is identified the real issue and problem. Furthermore, I fear that this problem remains unsolved for some who are not ofthe NUM.

Vital Points of Distinction

One point of distinction to be kept in mind parallels the difference between the work of a lawyerand a judge. The former determines what law is; thelatter pronounces sentence. If justice demandsclemency, not provided for in revealed law, in view ofextenuating circumstances, it is the prerogative ofthe judge — not the lawyer — to grant it. Our responsibility is that of the lawyer. I, therefore, amnot too concerned about answering questions which pose hypothetical situations and which involve extenuating circumstances which demand clemencyfrom the viewpoint of a human sense of justice.Granting such clemency is not my prerogative. Mywork is determining law in the light of revelation.

Another point of distinction involves knowledge of

when and under what conditions general repentance is

acceptable. While the Bible teaches that there is a

general repentance, it does not teach that such will

suffice in every instance. The NUM is definitely

lacking in such knowledge.

Also, knowledge of the nature of God's commands

is imperative. Not all of His conditions are the same

in nature. Like authority, one must understand its

nature (generic or specific) in order to determine truth

and make proper application. So it is with God's

commands; they differ in nature — some are absolute

and some are relative.

Absolute and Relative Commands

By absolute commands, I mean those so fixed as to be void of any relativity. Obedience to such is determined not upon the basis of their relation to something else, but rather upon the basis of being wholly independent of everything else. Obedience to such is not rendered by degrees. One does not progress or develop through time toward perfection insuch obedience. One either obeys or he does not, without regard to other matters. For example, one iseither "buried" and "raised" in baptism (Col. 2:12) orhe is not — and that is it. In observing the Lord'ssupper, he does it on the "first day" (Acts 20:7) or hedoes not. Such conditions are absolute.

By relative commands, I mean those wherein obedience is determined by their relation to something else. Obedience to the command to add the "Christian graces" (2 Pet. 1:5-11) must be determined in relation to other matters. People may possess these graces in varying degrees. Obedience is determined upon the basis of one's "diligence" (v. 5). Diligence requires sincere effort commensurate with one's time, opportunity, and ability. In the parable of the talents, Jesus teaches that talents represent the measure of what one is accountable for, and that one's accountability is inproportion to his ability (Matt. 25:15). Therefore, obedience to relative commands is not determined on the basis of obedience to the degree of perfection, but rather on the basis of whatis commensurate with other factors (time, opportunity,and ability). Such commands are related to these important factors, hence, are relative.

One may keep absolute conditions to the degree ofperfection. In fact, if they are kept at all, they are kept perfectly. There is no relativity about it. One either obeys or he does not — and that is it. Grace is not needed in obeying such commands, so far ashuman effort is concerned. Grace is seen in the nature of the commands themselves — they are conditions offaith, not conditions of merit.

On the other hand, the relative conditions, void of their relativity, cannot be kept by humanity to thedegree of perfection. Both the ages of Patriarchy andof Moses demonstrate man's inability. Otherwise, meritorious salvation would be possible. God's grace, however, provides for this human weakness — CONDITIONALLY! Concerning relative commands, His grace is seen in the extent of His requirement — that which is commensurate with one's ability, time, and opportunity. The condition is "diligence" as pointed out above. This condition isalso one of faith — not of merit. Indeed, man is saved "by grace through faith" (Eph. 2:8,9).

Inability and General Repentance

There is still another area in which God's grace is

urgently needed and in which it has been lovingly

provided. This area involves that margin of difference

between man's ability and perfection. While God in

His grace does not require of man that which is

above his ability, His law, nevertheless, remains

perfect. After man has done all that he can do, he is

yet a transgressor of God's perfect law, hence, a

sinner (1 Jno. 3:4). God does not bend His perfect

law down to the level of man's ability, but rather

spans the distance between the two (man's ability

and perfection) with His grace —

CONDITIONALLY!

The Scriptures require a deep sense of unworthiness on our part, even after we have done allthat we can do: "So likewise ye, when ye shall havedone all those things which are commanded you, say, we are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do" (Lk. 17:10). No doubt, John had such transgressions in mind, primarily, when he said, "If we say that we have no sin, wedeceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us" (1 Jno.1:8). Perhaps some were thinking that they had kept God's absolute commands, and consistent with their ability had kept His relative commands, therefore, were without sin. John corrects this erroneous view. Here is the area wherein general repentance mustsuffice. Such transgressions grow out of our inabilityto keep His perfect law — even sins of which we may not be cognizant (not through ignorance of law, butthrough human inability), of which we all are guilty(1 Jno. 1:8). How far short of perfection do we allcome in the matter of patience, temperance, etc? The truth of the matter is we do not know — God does. Forgiveness, however, is made possible through God's grace, conditionally. The conditions involve a continual penitent confession and prayer (1 Jno. 1:9);1 Thess. 5:17) and ever maintaining a deep sense ofunworthiness (Lk. 17:10). This repentance must of necessity be general, since we cannot be fully awareof the measure of our guilt.

I find no reason, however, to justify a general repentance for a transgression of God's absolute commands. Such does not involve inability, butrather a lack of faith or ignorance of law. While Godmade provision for transgressions through ignoranceof law among the Jews (Lev. 4) and suffered suchamong the Gentiles (Acts 14:16), that time is no more. NOW, He commands "all men everywhere to repent" (Acts 17:30). Forgiveness is obtained upon the conditions of repentance, confession and prayer(Acts 8:22; 1 Jno. 1:9). Since God no longer "winks" at ignorance of law, this repentance involves cognizance of the guilt. The same thing would be trueof a lack of "diligence" in keeping the relative commands. It is here that the NUM misses the mark of truth by teaching general repentance as a conditionof forgiveness for transgressions of absolute and

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relative commands.

It does not meet the issue to try to justify general repentance for transgressions of absolute commands upon the grounds of general repentance for the alien.The alien's repentance is of the fact that he is a sinner — a rebel against God. Hence, he is not calledupon to confess his sins, but rather to confess hisfaith in the deity of Jesus Christ (Rom. 10:10; Acts8:37). The child of God, however, must make a penitent confession of his sins (1 Jno. 1:9).

God's Requirements

In the light of this study, what does God require ofus? He requires perfect obedience to His absolute commands. He requires diligence in obeying His relative commands. He requires a continual sense ofunworthiness because of our inability to keep His lawto the degree of perfection. Any transgression in therealm of the first two must be forgiven through repentance (involving cognizance of the guilt), confession, and prayer. Transgressions in the latter realm are forgiven through a continual general penitent confession and prayer.

Moses E. Lard, one of the pioneer preachers in"the thick of the fight" against Calvinism in a daywhen the battle was fierce, the feelings intense, andconfusion perhaps at its greatest, put it very simplyin these words: "Partial obedience to the law is the only obedience possible to man; perfect obedience toconditions is the only obedience acceptable to God"(Commentary On Paul's Letter To Romans, Lexington, Ky.: Transylvainia Printing and Publishing Co., 1875, p. 350). END OF SERIES.

NO ONE IS PERFECT (No. 2)

The old worn out cliche "No one is perfect" covers

a multitude of sins. Back in 1964 Albert Garner,

Baptist preacher, asked the following question in

writing, "Mr. Hogland, when a child of God lies,

steals, murders, curses or commits adultery do such

acts constitute alien sins or alienating sins?" In 1968,

Vernon L. Barr also a Baptist debater and preacher

asked in writing the following question, "How many

sins must a child of God commit in order for him to

be lost?"

I introduce the two above questions to show the Calvinistic background of the two men. It is expectedof Baptist preachers to fail to differentiate betweenthe alien sinner and the erring child of God. However, I always thought my brethren knew better.Several years ago while writing a proposition fordebate I used the word "Alien" sinner. A little smirk came over the face of my opponent and he said, "Hogland, I see no difference in what you call analien sinner and one who sins after he is saved." I pointed out that I understood perfectly well the position he had espoused but I still wanted the word"Alien" in the proposition. I explained, that if I didnot use the word in the proposition he might concludethe same law of conversion applied to both, and cause me some embarrassment during the debate. He acquiesced and we signed the propositions. Calvinistssee no difference in the alien and the erring child ofGod and as one might expect they do not believe onecan fall from grace. If once saved always saved is aBible doctrine it would be foolish to talk about either the alien or the second law of pardon.

When Peter told Simon the magician to "Repent and pray" (Acts 8:22) he upset the apple cart of Calvinism. For example, in this one statement herefuted the once saved always saved idea along withshowing the difference in the alien and the erringchild of God. If there is no second law of pardon or ifone cannot fall from grace then Peter should havetold Simon to "Repent and be baptized" as he told the people on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:38).Obviously, there is a difference or Peter the apostlemade a mistake both in Acts eight and Acts two.

The fact that "No one is perfect" also gives muchtrouble to members of the Body of Christ. Since it isaxiomatic that no one is perfect, even a Christian,this presents certain problems. Some feel that because the Christian sins he is in the same boat with

the alien. Here we have a play on semantics! It is

true sin is sin regardless by whom it may be

committed. However, it must be understood that the

two are not in the same boat with reference to laws of

pardon.

We shall now study two cases which will serve to

illustrate the point. In Romans five Paul tells the

Romans it was their sin which had caused God to

manifest his Grace in the sending of his Son to die

for their redemption. The Romans like many today,

and knowing that no one is perfect had their gun

loaded and ready to fire. They argued, we will

continue in sin and God will give us more grace.

Paul, turned this argument into a tail-spin by saying,

"God forbid." He went on to say in verse two, "How

shall we that are dead to sin, live any longer

therein?" Now for an important question. Did Paul

mean these Roman Christians were perfect? A

thousand times no. On the other hand did he open

the flood gate for sin? The answer is No! So the

Christian stands somewhere between the stubborn

fact that he does sin and yet cannot be a habitual

(Continual) sinner. This is a difficult pill for the

Calvinist to swallow. The Christian will inadvertently

sin even if he tries not to, but this is a far cry from

continuing in sin as Paul explains in Romans Six.

Our second example is in I John 1. This great apostle tells us that all Christian sin. He even included himself. He said, "If we say we have notsinned we make him a liar, and his word is not in us." Then John, like Paul trying to avoid extremismsaid in chapter two, verse one, "These things write I unto you, that he sin not." Now for another important question. Did John mean Christians are perfect? Again the answer is No. But when he said we all sin was he giving us license to sin? No indeed!Then why did he tell us we all sin and then turn rightaround and say we are to sin not? Because he wastelling it like it is. He is explaining the difference inthe alien sinner (sinning) and the child of God (sinning). One sins without restraint; the other will sin even with restraint. I insist this will help us understand the famous Baptist argument on I John

3:9. "Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin." Baptist preachers say this means the soul of the Christian never does sin. When sin is evident it is always blamed on the body and that does not matter. However, let us get back to the text. DoesJohn mean the child of God never does sin? Certainly not — He answered that question in I John

1:10. He means, as Paul told the Romans, Christiansare not habitual sinners or that they cannot continuein sin.

Now for a final question. Since we as Christians admittedly commit sin, is there any hope? The Calvinist says no, and God says yes. The Calvinist believes he is as pure as God himself. I have had Baptist preachers to tell me their soul (not body) isas pure as God. Their soul does not sin. They believe in perfection! They will tell you that if your soul sinsyou cannot make it to heaven. As a matter of factthey believe in perfection and this is where the "oncesaved always saved" comes in. On the other hand God tells us in I John 1:9 to confess our sins and the blood of Christ will cleanse (present tense-keep on cleansing) us from all sins. So there is hope for the Christian even if he sins. He must confess his sins. The child of God must say. Lord have mercy on me asinner. The Calvinist cannot say this because he believes in perfection. He has no sins to confess. If heconfesses his sins they are of the body and will notsend his soul to hell anyway! If I felt as the Calvinistthat the perfect life of Jesus had been imputed to mewhy would I want to confess anything? Gentlereader, on the day of judgment the Lord will look atyou, not Jesus. In Matt. 25, the Lord will say, "Iwas hungry and you (not the Lord) fed me." I was thirsty and you (not the Lord) gave me drink." Notice the emphasis on YOU. Call it legalism or whatyou please. To argue that the personal righteousnessof Jesus has been imputed to us and that our souls are as perfect as the Lord himself is a bunch of foolishness. We have fought this doctrine in Baptistpreachers for years and I was hopeful that we would never have to fight our own brethren on these Calvinistic claims but alas the time has come!

GETTING BORED?

An AP release (Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer,July 19, 1978) reported on the fourth annual BoredomAnonymous Convention in Manhattan that was staged as part of National Avoid Boredom Week.Several suggestions were offered as to how one mightavoid boredom, including picking a fight in a karateschool, chewing tinfoil, or getting the address of everyone who has ever eaten a Big Mac.

George Lewis, who founded the 200-member anti-boredom society, said he was dedicated to helping thecountry overcome boredom by "keeping the mind in aterrific fantasy."

Boredom is no joke. Idleness is still the devil's workshop, and I'm all for any real concern that isshown for the problem. I once saw a cartoon that pictured a man and woman at Niagara Falls. Theman was shrugging his shoulders and asking, "So?What else does it do?"

Here's a piece that's been aging in my files for some years. Like many good things, it has grown more succulent with age. It was written by Charles Hodge. We believe it offers a better solution to boredom than picking a fight.

"America's unique sin is boredom. Well known people even commit suicide in the name of boredom .

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. . the boredom of interstate highways . . . theboredom of assembly lines . . . the boredom of oldage homes . . . the boredom of living! Pornography, violence, crime feed on boredom. Marriages, jobs, friendships are destroyed by boredom!

"B. F. Skinner thought boredom came from coercion, but many like Paul in jail were not bored.Eric Berne thought it was structure hunger, but onecan be bored by structure itself. Psychology, now,has decided boredom is 'An incomplete striving formeaning.' Boredom is meaningless! Boredom is not apathy — an accepted lack of meaning. So the key toboredom is meaninglessness, not monotony. Knitting and mowing yards are monotony but many enjoy it!In tests people preferred work to not work. So — it isnot work that is boring, per se.

"It is tragic to find Christians bored! So many are.To them Christianity, the church, yea even life havelost meaning. Church is attended on Sunday withnothing given, nothing expected, and nothing gained.We return home bored. Members are drivingthemselves crazy boating, going off on weekends,etc., seeking something to eliminate boredom. Their recreation becomes equally as boring!

"We must die to live; we must die to reproduce!We must return to the real meaning of Jesus. Canyou imagine the Apostle Paul bored? Even in prison?Can you imagine the early church bored? Persecuted — yes — but not bored!

"Boredom indicated meaninglessness — a Christiancannot have that!"

The sword of the Spirit says: "The fear of the Lordis a fountain of life, to depart from the snares ofdeath . . . The way of life is above to the wise, thathe may depart from hell beneath . . . Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established" (Prov. 14:27; 15:24; 16:3).

BABY BEER IS HERE

The Louisville Times, Oct. 21, 1978, reported that Anheuser-Busch, the country's largest brewer,recently began test-marketing in several areas of thecountry an alcoholic beverage that children can legally purchase.

Chelsea, a mixture of ginger, lemon and apple flavoring with a malt base, contains less than 0.5 percent alcohol. Because the alcohol content is solow, it can be sold to children and is outside the jurisdiction of many state alcohol control boards.

A spokesman for the Kentucky Nurses Association said that the drink could condition children to alcohol. The Association passed a resolution at its convention to oppose the distribution of Chelsea and pledged to boycott other Anheuser-Busch products.

I've quit being surprised at the glaring hypocrisy of the liquor industry. Representatives often acknowledge the problem of drinking among young people, and feign concern. Actions speak so loudly, however!

A recent report from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism estimated: that in grades 7-12, three out of every four young people drink alcoholic beverages; one out of every five kids,aged 14-17 are problem drinkers; by the time they getto the 12th grade, 40 percent of the boys and 21percent of the girls are problem drinkers; and in thelast 10 years, arrests of persons under the age of 21for driving under the influence of alcohol rose 875 percent!

As a result of such findings, states which lowered the legal drinking age below 21 are raising themagain. Montana, Michigan, and New Jersey tooksuch action in the November elections.

But the distillers and brewers are forever biddingfor the soul of our land, and the souls of our youth.

The Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer (Nov. 21, 1978)editorialized: "The liquor industry has now providedus with examples of two of the most effective meansfor introducing non-drinkers into the drinking culture.We now have alcoholic drinks without any alcoholtaste and (almost) non-alcoholic drinks designed totaste like the real thing.

"The former — such as Heublein's Malcolm Hereford's Cows — offer a milk shake taste with an alcoholic kick. The latter — Chelsea — offers that beer-like taste with a low alcohol content. One is attracting those who want alcohol and can't stand the taste (including many teenagers). The other givespeople too young to have alcohol the thrill of joining in our alcoholic culture."

It is becoming more imperative all the time that weadmonish our children to "Enter not into the path ofthe wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. Avoidit, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away. Forthey sleep not, except they have done mischief; andtheir sleep is taken away, unless they cause some tofall" (Prov. 4:14-16).

If you would like to express your opinion aboutthis, write to the Public Relations Department,Anheuser-Busch Brewing Company, 721 Pestalozzi,St. Louis, Mo. 63118.

AS A MAN THINKETH

If you were asked to list the ten most significantworld events of the past 135 years, in terms of theirimpact on recorded history, what would you list?

Sylvia Porter, syndicated economy columnist, recently gave a summary of the list that was published by "The Economist," an "internationallyrespected British weekly news magazine." The list was created and published in connection with the magazine's 135th anniversary.

A good deal of bias and subjectivism would likelyenter into the compiling of such a list. Yet, I must concur that all the events suggested by "The Economist" have affected world-wide consequences.The big shocker is that the top five in the list are nottechnological advances, but ideologies:

No. 1: The vast change in the position and statusof women. No. 2: Freud and the development of

psychoanalysis.No. 3: Darwin's theory on the origin of the species.No. 4: The Communist Manifesto and the Russian

Revolution. No. 5: Fascism and the rise of totalitarian dictatorships which led to W. W. II.

The rest of the list includes the invention of the automobile and airplane, electricity, the end of slavery in the U. S., the end of powerful monarchiesin most of the world, and the "conquest of space,"

In my view, everyone of the top five involves anti-God, anti-scriptural concepts. The theories of such mental giants as Freud, Darwin, and Marx were conceived and written in the quiet ripple of the study.But they are now reflected in the tidal waves ofhuman behavior.

Let us never underestimate the power of philosophy. Truly, "As a man thinketh in his heart,so is he."

GOD'S PATTERN FOR CONVERSION, ORGANIZATION, WORSHIP & WORK # 1

There is much confusion in the world today, as wellas in the church, regarding the Bible and its usage.What is the Bible? Who wrote it? What benefit is it for us today? I hope to answer these and other questions in this tract.

The Bible is the inspired and infallible Word of God.Its claims to be such are evident. It claims to originate with God, to be complete, and warns man not to go beyond what is written therein. This is either true, or the Bible is a lie from beginning to end.

II Timothy 3:16 — "All Scripture is given byinspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, and reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness."

John 16:13 — "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth,is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shallnot speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear,that shall he speak: and he will show you things tocome."

II Peter 1:21 — "For the prophecy came not in oldtime by the will of man: but holy men of God spake asthey were moved by the Holy Spirit."

II Peter 1:-3 — "According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life andgodliness, through the knowledge of him that hathcalled us to glory and virtue."

Acts 20:27 — "For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God."

Jude 3 — "Beloved, when I gave all diligence to writeunto you of the common salvation, it was needful forme to write unto you, and exhort you that ye shouldearnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints."

II John 9 — "Whosoever transgresseth, and abidethnot in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both theFather and the Son."

Galatians 1:8 — "But though we, or an angel fromheaven, preach any other gospel unto you than thatwhich we have preached unto you, let him be accursed."

Revelation 22:18 — "For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, Ifany man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book."

Revelation 22:19 — "And if any man shall take awayfrom the words of the book of this prophecy, God shalltake away his part out of the book of life, and out ofthe holy city, and from the things which are written inthis book."

II Timothy 4:2 — "Preach the word; be instant inseason, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with alllong-suffering and doctrine."

I Peter 4:11 — "If any man speak, let him speak asthe oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do itas of the ability which God giveth; that God in allthings may be glorified through Jesus Christ: to whombe praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen."

Colossians 3:17 — "And whatsoever ye do in word ordeed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, givingthanks to God and the Father by him."

John 12:48 — "He that rejecteth me, and receivethnot my words, hath one that judgeth him: the wordthat I have spoken, the same shall judge him in thelast day."

In view of the fact that the Bible is the completeand final revelation from God, let us observe that itinvolves three different periods or dispensations oftime (Patriarchal — from Adam to the giving of thelaw of Moses at Mt. Sinai; Mosaic — from Sinai until the death of Christ on the cross; New Testament or Christ's Rule — from the cross until the end of time).

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During the Patriarchal period, God dealt directly withthe head of the family. During the Mosaic period, man was governed by the Law of Moses. Today, we are governed by the New Testament.

Hebrews 1:1-2 — "God, who at sundry times and indivers manners spake in time past unto the fathers bythe prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto usby his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things,by whom also he made the worlds."

When I refer to "God's Pattern" of things, I mean, "a model, plan, etc. used in making things" (Webster's New World Dictionary, Page 314). It simply involves reading everything God has said onany subject. When we compile all the teaching fromthe New Testament on any subject, we have God's pattern on that subject.

Hebrews 8:1-5 — "Now the things which we havespoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest,who is set on the right hand of the throne of theMajesty in the heavens; a minister of the sanctuary,and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched,and not man. For every high priest is ordained to offergifts and sacrifices: wherefore it is of necessity thatthis man have somewhat also to offer. For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that thereare priests that offer gifts according to the law: Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenlythings, as Moses was admonished of God when he wasabout to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewedto thee in the mount."

Matthew 7:21 -23 — "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom ofheaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father whichis in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord,Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name donemany wonderful works? and then will I profess untothem, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that workiniquity."

Hebrews 5:9 — "And being made perfect, he becamethe author of eternal salvation unto all them that

obey him." II Timothy 3:16-17 — "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, forreproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect,throughly furnished unto all good works."Paul says the Scriptures furnish us unto every good work. Hence if it is a good work that God wants done, He reveals it to us through His Word. Therefore,following God's pattern means doing God's will or obeying Christ. Thus, God through His Word has revealed to mankind His plan (pattern) for us to follow.

pattern in becoming a Christian).

SELECTIVITY

Selectivity is a part of life. No matter the area oflife under consideration, the necessity of being selective is a vital concern. It is important what school we attend; it is vital that a potential breadwinner choose a vocation in keeping with his abilities; it is of concern to a young lady that hermale companions measure up to the standard shehas set for a possible mate. Because of the fact thatmuch of our thought time is taken up by the action ofchoice, we should extend to that part of our thinking great care and dedication. We must not only learn todistinguish, we must learn to discriminate, be selective.

We Must Practice SelectivityRegarding Meditation

Every person has time when he is free to meditate,

muse, plan, even dream. Such thoughts are entirely

under his control and supervision. Apart from such

times man could not function as he ought, for this

type of deliberation is necessary to his well-being

since out of this type of thinking comes his various

decisions and eventually, his route of pursuit in life.

I suggest that the neglect of proper meditation inprivate and personal worship is one of the most serious derelictions in the life of many Christians.David said, "Oh, how I love thy law; it is mymeditation day and night" (Psalm 119:97). But today we are so busy with the affairs of life that if we giveeven five or ten minutes in sincere worship to God itis most likely because we have been arrested by thedeath of someone, by our own sudden realization ofpain, or by some similar experience. We need to be more selective about what we allow to run through our minds. We need to give as much time as possible to deliberating and thinking about God and to honestly planning in our minds a stronger dedication to His service.

We Need to Be Selective About Our Servitude

Man has the inherent right to choose to whom hewill render his service and for whom he will live his life (Rom. 6:17). With the cognizance that every man is voluntarily subjugating himself in serviceeither to God or the forces of evil (Matt. 6:24), itought to be abundantly clear that he should exercisecare in the choices he makes in order to stay inservice to God and out of the grasp of the forces ofevil. Peter says, "Of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought into bondage," (II Pet 2:19),indicating that man can overcome just as he can beovercome. Such victory is possible to him who trustsin the strength which God supplies (Phil. 4:13; Matt.4:l-ff). Dual devotion is odious to God. Since such isso, we should be careful that our every action reflectsa submission to God, coupled with a feeling of deepenmity toward all evil.

We Must Learn to Be SelectiveRegarding Companions

I have seen literally dozens of people seek to holdhands with God and with the world at the same time. The world always won. "Be not deceived; evil companions corrupt good morals" (I Cor. 15:33), TheNASV has it, "bad company corrupts good morals,"and the NIV, "bad company corrupts goodcharacter." Any way it is said, the result is the same: when a person carries on with evil associates, some ofthe evil is bound to pervade and corrupt this goodcharacter. The Christian just has no business fraternizing with the world. He has no more fellowship, sharing, partnership with the world thanlight has with darkness, or righteousness with unrighteousness, or Christ with Belial (Cf. II Cor. 6:14-ff). The truth is, they have nothing in common and if a Christian finds that he has considerable agreement with the world, it is past time that he reexamine his life and purposes and come out from among them and be separate. To sever such a relationship is admittedly difficult; but sever it hemust! And he should also remember that it is a far more desirable thing to stay away from such an evilrelationship than after having become beholden of it,to seek to rid himself of its grip. And while it is certainly true that monasticism and complete separation from the world is not possible, "for then must ye needs come out of the world" (I Cor. 5:10),it is as the modern-day proverb says, "I may not beable to stop the birds from flying over my head, butI certainly can keep them from making a nest in myhair."

We Need to Be Selective AboutWhere We Go

Man is influenced to a large extent by his environs,or the things which surround him. If he frequents evilplaces, he is likely to take upon himself those thingspeculiar to those evil places. On the other hand, if heis a regular visitor to some wholesome spiritual environment, he likely will assume the qualities radiated by that atmosphere. The person who is notcareful and discriminatory about his haunts will driftaway from righteous influences simply because of theimmediate pleasure to be derived from the brightlights and sweet music offered by this world's houses of entertainment. In his haste to conform and be accepted, he forgets that those baubles and beads aremerely the bait and that such allurements hide a monstrous hook from which escape is rendered mostdifficult. Young persons usually do more going thanolder folks. Young people, watch where you're going!There are places you do not need to frequent, even to"see what's going on there." The person who nevergoes to the bar is far less likely to become addicted tothe alcohol; the person who never visits a dope party will likely never be involved in the drug scene. Thewise man asks, "Can a man take fire into his bosom and his clothes not be burned?", and again, "Can aman walk on hot coals and his feet be not burned?" (Prov. 6:27-28). Our assignment to come together (Heb. 10:25) is for the purpose of our mutual edification and encouragement and the selection to beassociated with those of like, precious faith is a farsuperior choice than spending time with the enticements of the worldly and the wisdom of thewicked.

We Need to Be Selective AboutWhat We Hear

Our ears are bombarded in this day and age withall manner of evil speakings. There is cursing withoutregard at work; there is gossip at home; there isfilthy talk at school; there is backbiting at church. Atevery turn there is demeanment, slanted information,sordid and off-color stories, misrepresentations, andeven open slander available for the taking. And thesad part is that most of us, at some time or the other, take some of it! It is so accessible that onemust exercise great care not to be involved in somesort of it. Such an avoidance takes great selectivity.It is considered fashionable today to see how coarseone can become, even in mixed company. Women today are as bad as men with their filthy talk and ungodly jesting. The television set, which was some years ago seemingly filled to capacity with suggestivematerial, no longer merely suggests it — IT SAYS IT!IT DESCRIBES IT! AND IT EVEN DOES IT! And just about the time I think I have heard every grossand filthy expression which the Federal Communications Commission could possibly allow, some half-illiterate, self-inflated, pot-promotingprima donna disc-jockey fills the air with a line of filth that should cause even the less discriminating to blushin shame! And, mind you, he does it all without anydread of punity. People, many radio stations (certainly not all!) are purveyors of slop. And they areplanting ungodliness and immorality into the heartsand minds of our young people right under our verynoses and virtually without resistance. And they aredoing it on a daily basis, too. In Luke 8:18, Jesussays, following the discussion of the parable of thesoils, "take heed therefore how he hear." If you aregiving all your leisure time to hearing the tripe and filth being fomented by most of the entertainmentworld today, you are not being selective. You need tohear more about God and less about what the world deems to be of pleasure and benefit.

We Need to Be Selective AboutWhat We See

Never in the history of man has there been asmuch to see. Instant satellite communication has bridged the breach between wherever we are and anyevent taking place on this planet, as well as in outer space. But never has there been, at least in the history of this country, as much filth available for our viewing. Smut and pornography are beingpeddled to our young people in complete disregard formoral implications. And older persons are openlyarguing for the right of these young persons to see it.It is disgusting!

Even the church of our Lord has been affected bysuch loose thinking regarding the display of the human body. We have seen so much sex in advertising, so much near-nudity in entertainmentprograms and movies, so much disregard for modestyin the styles of the day that we have become immuneto the shame which such should cause. And in some instances, even though we would not dare speak upfor such filth, we openly view it and sometimes we are prone to look forward with some lustful anticipation to the next shocking scene just afterhaving condemned the first. We condemn it while enjoying it! And it seems that if society says it is invogue, we will stand and fight for it, even if it meanswe must change our views somewhat about some ofthe prohibiting scriptures. How sad. But how so. Some few years ago preachers, teachers, and godly persons everywhere sought in vain to tellsome women that lower hemlines were necessary to

modesty. What they could not do in years of intense

pleadings was done by fashion in a matter of only a

few days! Does the fact of it not argue where the real

servitude is among many people?

Parents, what are your children watching? I do not

argue that we should impose blinders on our

youngsters so that they have no concept about what

is taking place in the world about them. Nor would I

advise that we adopt some puritanical attitude of

never discussing sex and its various influences and

implications. But I do argue that a steady diet of

pornographic lewdity and its polluting effect on the

mind is not to be tolerated by the discriminating

parent. Please be advised that even with selective

viewing imposed on our youngsters, they will still see

enough things in life to be educated about the ways

of the world. And without really looking! We will be

held as accountable for what we see as for what we

hear and we should consequently exercise fastidious

care both in our own selections and in the selections

we allow for our youngsters. To do less is to be

foolish.

We Need to Be Selective AboutWhat We Say

Nothing is more beautiful than a few, well chosenwords; nothing is worse than to say what is obviously out of order and untimely. I doubt that there is any one thing more common among all peoplethan poor use of the tongue. Most all people-related problems are products of a poor and indiscriminate use of the tongue. Solomon says, "there is a time to remain silent; a time to speak"(Eccl. 3:7). And I add that it takes almost solomonicwisdom to distinguish between the two! It takes careand constant attention to make a proper use of thetongue (Jas. 3:6-10), but when it is done (and it can bedone!), it can be a vital and moving force for good.

Today's Christian has more opportunity to speakout for good than ever before. He is out and around;he is presented with occasions for speaking up forgood. And yet we often see Christianity maligned,the system of good trampled, the Christ of the Bibledemeaned, and the idea of godly living mutilated andtwitted at and we walk by unconcerned. How can itbe? Are we afraid? We live in a country where we areassured the right of expression. Are we ashamed? Wehave the truth of God. Are we just unimpressed withthe entire business of Christianity? How is it possible? We need to learn to speak up for truth andright. We need to learn to "earnestly contend for thefaith" (Jude 3). Jesus said that the person who isashamed or timid about his kinship to Christ in thislife will find no confession of his name before the throne of his Father at the last day (Matt. 10:32-33).It also needs to be noted that a denial of his sovereignty need not be an audible negative declaration; just the failure to stand up and be counted at the right time will do!

We also need to recognize the force and influence which can be wielded by a wrong utterance. In Eccle.10:1, the wise preacher shows how one tiny fly can completely destroy an apothecarist's months of meticulous attention to a very precious preparation ofointment. And in the same way, one ill-chosen word has the power within it to literally destroy a reputation which was a lifetime in the building. And that untimely remark can come either from him whohas spent the years in its building or from someonewho seeks to destroy the reputation of that one. Anyinformation about some other person should be guarded, carefully contemplated, and then spoken only after great hesitation. Even if it is so! In short, we should be very selective about our remarks, no matter the occasion, no matter the subject.

We Need to Be Selective AboutOur Future

The real future for man will not be found on time's side of eternity, for we all tend toward a spiritualdestiny. Man is destined to die (Heb. 9:27) and he islikewise scheduled to participate in a judgmentalinterview with God, there to give an accounting of the deeds done during his probationary period on earth (Rom. 2:6-9). The fact of it should serve to cause every person to ponder seriously over his choices and make only those decisions as will eventuate in his being acceptable to God at thatgreat day. Man has but one period of time during which to prepare for eternity. Failure to discriminate between the joys of heaven and the miseries of hell,whether out of willful ignorance, prejudice, or bysimple neglect is the most foolish failure of all. Its consequences are eternal, unchangeable. How can we afford to take such a chance? The risk is too great.

Conclusion

There are many other areas where selectivity is advisable, even demanded. But I hope these will suffice to demonstrate to a proof the dire need forsuch discrimination in every area of life. To fail to doso is to fail in everything we do, for if we miss heaven, we have just missed all there is!

NEW CONGREGATION BEGINS

DOUG SEATON, Concord, NC — A new congregation of faithful brethren has begun in Salisbury, NC. A group left the liberalchurch in Salisbury after the "fellowship hall" was completed andafter coffee and cake were served after the morning worshipservice. These brethren have been meeting in homes for over ayear, but have recently been able to rent a comfortable meetingplace. They have worked hard and spent a great deal of time inmaking the place suitable for worship. They have taken a standfor the truth and have been persecuted because of it. They wereignored until a recent meeting in which the writer preached. Whenthe liberal church saw the advertisement and teaching articles inthe paper they became very upset and decided to try to stop themeeting. Their efforts to stop the meeting failed so they decidedto withdraw from one of the members involved in helping start thenew work. The persecution has caused a great many in Salisburyto open their eyes. During the meeting one was baptized and anumber from the liberal churches attended. Attendance averaged 37 during the meeting and a number that were not Christians attended. Attendance on Sundays now averages 15-20. Brethrenfrom Winston-Salem, Concord and Charlotte are preaching forthem on Sundays but the church is interested in getting a soundpreacher to work with them on a full time basis. The prospects aregreat for growth in this area. Any interested in the work shouldcontact James H. Hand, Rt. 5 Box 347, Salisbury, NC 28144. Phone 633-1398.

ROBERTO V. SPENCER, Odessa, Texas — The Spanishcongregation which meets at Mable and Myers Sts. in Odessa conducted a gospel meeting November 5-10 with preaching byFrancisco Pena from Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico. His style isoriginal and he used pictorial illustrations very effectively. He is aformer superintendent of schools in Mexico. A record was set thefirst night with 118 with above 100 present every night. Everynight we saw new faces. Also, Mexican brethren from Midland, Monahans, Pecos and San Angelo, Texas cooperated with us verywell. On Sunday morning after the meeting one 65 year old manwas baptized. He had attended the meeting all week.

I was with the Spanish congregation in Del Rio, Texas December 4-8 in a gospel meeting. They are new in the faith andneed much teaching. I ask your prayers.

The Courage of Conviction — Italian Radio Program

(Editor's note: The following excerpt is from a recent letter from

RODOLFO BERDINI who lives in Rome and preaches for the

church in Aprilia. Note the subject matter of his recent radio

sermons in the very center of Catholic influence and power. I ask

you, if you were an Italian Christian living in Italy, would you

deal with such subject matter on a radio program? What a

refreshing contrast this is to the watered down preaching on such

programs as Herald of Truth. — CWA)

"The radio programme is going ahead notwithstanding

opposition from the owner of the station who is afraid that the

station will be closed down because of contempt of the Catholic

religion, which in Italy is the official religion of the State.

You have to realize that there is a substantial difference between Italian and American listeners. Here there is a publicwhich is completely foreign to biblical reality, brutalized by centuriesof spiritual ignorance, which is desired and was wittingly guidedby the inquisition with physical and moral abuse of every kindused on a public that thinks we are delinquents to avoid. You see,dear Connie, I am talking to infants who believe themselves tobe giants and with whom I often have to use the guttural soundscharacteristic of that infantile age in order to gain even their attention. So that from 4th August I started to broadcast lessons — information on the papacy, analyzing doctrinal problems,only superficially but sufficiently at least to initiate a dialogue,enlarging especially on the consequences that history points upabout the problem of the Catholic institution of the papacy. On 18th August I discussed the much-talked-about poverty of Montini and of his simple fir-wood coffin which contained hismortal remains, and discussed the immense riches of the Vatican.In the broadcast of 25th August I discussed Montini's testament which affirms that the bones of the Apostle Peter are there in thegrottoes of the Vatican. On 1st September I analyzed some of therealities of the Conclave, enlarging on this subject also during thebroadcasts of 8th and 15th September. I put into evidence theiniquities of a great many of the popes, doctrinal and moral iniquities, in order to inform my listeners that the Holy Spirit,who according to Roman doctrine inspires the Cardinals in theirchoice of the Roman Pontiff, not only does not, certainly, enterinto the choice but that they are certainly directed by Satan. On the 22nd and 29th September and on 6th October I analyzed theecclesiastic law of celibacy of priests, and in particular I pointed up the consequences which history shows us abundantly. On 13th,20th and 27th October I talked about auricular confession and the consequences that it has produced and continues to produceamong the clergy and the faithful. Among the historical authors whom I had recourse to most frequently and who is the most documented and the most serious is the American Henry Charles

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Lea. I believe that he is so seriously analytical that he will find aplace in the bibliography of such subjects as auricular confessionand celibacy of priests in the Catholic Encyclopedia published bythe Vatican."

WE WANT TO KNOW

Many brethren have told us they always look for and are encouraged by the little box we publish each month "In The NewsThis Month" in which we report the number of baptisms and restorations which we have learned of through bulletins,newsletters of workers in this country and around the world, orhear of in various meetings as we travel to meetings in various parts of the country. But we are hearing of a small percentage ofwhat is being done. We wish to urge all readers, wherever you are, to let us know of such information from the places where youworship. This is of great encouragement to brethren around theworld. Why not share your good news with us.

PREACHERS WANTED CORDELE, GEORGIA — The church meeting at 610 E. 16thAvenue, P.O. Box 342, Cordele, Georgia 31015 is in need of a full

time preacher. Gospel preachers interested may contact thebrethren at the above address or call Irby Hartin (912) 273-4530(Home) or 273-3727 (Office).

WARREN, ARKANSAS — This congregation of 35 members is inneed of a gospel preacher. We can supply $125 a week supportwith the rest having to be secured elsewhere. Those interestedmay contact Morgan O'Neill, Rt. 2 Box 423, Warren, Arkansas 71671, or call (501) 226-3964 at night, or 226-7225 in the daytime.