THE BIBLE AND MEDICAL PRINCIPLES

Medicine as practiced in this country and, as practiced in all modernized countries of the worldtoday is, quite frankly, a reasonably new and scientific approach, unknown for the most part todoctors even fifty to 100 years ago. That is not tosay that approaches to medical and surgical problemswere not proper per se as practiced seventy-five yearsago, but with newer and better procedures, newer medicine and more modern approaches being madedaily, truly medicine as we practice it now will bequite outmoded even in 25 years. I have said all that to emphasize this point, a number of medical principles which were practiced during biblical timesare really for historical interest only and have little orno practical application today.

Notice I said some, but certainly not all. There arecertain principles which have been given to us through the written word by God which will obviously never be outmoded. Let me digress a bit.The Bible is not designed as a scientific or medicaltext book. It was never intended for such and should not be construed as such, but when a medical principleis alluded to in the scriptures, it was proper and right for its period of time and was good medical advice. Some of the more general principles we can even use today, but then there are some which havebeen laid aside for more modern medical principles.Let me give you examples of both:

Concerning some excellent general medical advice,one only has to turn to Proverbs and Ecclesiastes.The Proverbs are general maxims which have both spiritual and physical applications. Often the physical connotations made by Solomon are overlooked and emphasis is placed only on the spiritual. If one reads closely the above mentioned books he will begin to see an underlying current of instruction which, if followed, will bring, under normal circumstances longer life to an individual. Medical practice has atbest a two-fold purpose: 1. To aid in healing and relieve suffering and 2. To attempt in some small way to prolong life by diagnosing and treating life-threatening situations and diseases. It is to the latterwhich Proverbs and Ecclesiastes relate. Note Proverbs 3:8 and 16 where wisdom and prudence aredescribed as being "healing to your body,refreshment to your bones, and long life is in herright hand." Also Proverbs 4:22 where instructions kept are "life to those who find them and health toall their whole body." The entire tenor of these books is moderate, prudent and temperate living, with your reward being a more productive, less anxious, and theoretically longer-lasting life. If I could get that point across to most of my patients,I feel I would have accomplished a great deal in mypractice. Along these lines consider for a moment gluttony, winebibbing, lack of exercise, slothfulnessand you will begin to see that the words of Solomon have both physical and practical applications as well.More on each of these points in later articles. For yourown edification with the above points in mind, readProverbs 12:25, Proverbs 13:12, Proverbs 20:1 and afavorite of mine with respect to the effects of alcoholread Proverbs 23:29-35.

An example of medical principles not closelyadhered to in our present age would be the treatmentof leprosy. Today we have antibiotics which for themost part control this dreaded disease. But in boththe Old and New Testaments this disease was treated with banishment and colonization since there was no known treatment. Today's therapy is not as drastic.There continues to be banishment in some countries, but in those modernized medical communities where leprosy can be diagnosed early, we do offer more hopefor the patient.

Another example is Paul's admonition to Timothyin 1 Tim. 5:23 to take wine for his stomach's sake and other infirmities. I will not belabor the point here, for hopefully there will be further articles on

alcohol, but suffice it to say this passage has been more misused and misapplied than any other"medical" verse in the Bible. We do have less caustic drugs and, yes, better drugs for the stomach thanwine. More on that point will be discussed in futurearticles.

There is a great deal of folklore and traditionbehind the art of medicine as practiced in Bibletimes. Superstitions and diseases attributed to sin or more importantly, sickness resulting from punishment for sin, lie at the supposed origin of anumber of biblical diseases. (Read the account ofthe blind man being healed by Christ, John 9:1-12)These approaches to disease have to be taken intoconsideration when one is dealing with Old and NewTestament medical practices. Again however, thosetruths which God expects us to keep and the decreesfor healthy, and long lasting life will be explored anddealt with in future articles.

PAUL'S ENTRANCE AMONG THE THESSALONIANS

It cannot be denied that many of the problemswhich arise in congregations grow out of an improperrelationship between the preacher and the rest of thechurch. Sometimes the fault may be laid at the feetof the preacher, sometimes it lies with the congregation, and often it is a case of "six of one andhalf a dozen of the other." For that reason, a study of 1 Thessalonians 2:1-13 might be helpful to all concerned. Paul had labored successfully at Thessalonica. Though the chronology in Acts will notpermit Paul to have tarried more than a few monthsin that great city, yet the warmth of feeling generated between Paul and the brethren there is beautiful to contemplate.

Their Reception

Acts 17:1-9 reports the success of the gospel inthat city along with the antagonism of those whobelieved not. "And some of them believed, and consorted with Paul and Silas; and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few" (Acts 17:4). Paul's entrance was successful. A large congregation was established. They received Paul's preaching "not as the word of men, but as it isin truth, the word of God" (1 Thess. 2:13). Their loveand respect for Paul was genuine and they sent wordby Timothy while Paul was at Corinth that they had"good remembrance" of him, "desiring greatly" to see him again (1 Thess. 3:6). It is clear from these statements that while they loved Paul personally andappreciated his work, they were, at the same time,able to distinguish between human opinion and divinetruth. The truth preached is far greater than the onewho preaches it. A recognition of this fact would gofar in correcting the troublesome problem of "preacheritis."

Paul's Conduct Toward Them

The reason Paul's entrance unto them was not a failure may be seen in the following facts about hiswork.

(1) He said "We were bold in our God to speakunto you the gospel of God. . ." (verse 2). Paul wasnot easily intimidated. Though shamefully treated at Philippi for faithfully preaching the gospel, Paul persisted in this same work at Thessalonica. He didnot mourn and whine about his ill-treatment nor sit down to feel sorry for himself. He went on to thenext place and did what he was supposed to do. Resistance to the truth, even in the form of persecution, should never make us hesitate to speak outcourageously in proclaiming the will of God.

(2) Paul spoke "with much contention" (verse 2).This phrase does not mean that Paul was given togenerating strife or that he was possessed of a cantankerous disposition. Rather, it describes the earnestness of his presentation. There was an agonyof spirit as he strove to make known the gospel forthe salvation of his hearers. His soul reached out for the souls of men. Is it not possible that the efforts ofsome fail because we have become too matter-of-fact,too mechanical in our delivery? Have our appeals tothe lost degenerated into cold routine? (3) Paul's exhortation was "not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile" (verse 3). "Not of deceit" means that his preaching was not in error. Great caremust be given to speak the truth in love (Eph. 4:15).Further, Paul was not a put-on. He was genuine. Hismotive in speaking truth was not impure and he did not try to catch them with guile. He was not a schemer or a political strategist. He left no room forguessing as to his motives or meaning. (4) Paul had the right view of himself in relation tothe gospel. "But as we were allowed to be put intrust with the gospel, even so we speak. ." (verse 4).Paul always viewed preaching as a sacred stewardship. He marveled that the grace of God would permit such an one to preach "the unsearchable riches of Christ." Preaching was not just a means ofmaking a living with Paul. It was a sacred trust. When men today view their work of preaching withthe same seriousness then all concerned will be better off. (5) Paul was not a man-pleaser. "Not as pleasingmen, but God, which trieth our hearts" (verse 4). Tothe Galatians Paul said "For if I sought to please men, I should not be the servant of Christ" (Gal.1:10). Every preacher needs to settle in his heart atthe beginning of his work that his first concern is toso preach and live as to please God. It is utterlyimpossible to please men all the time in preaching thetruth. Sometimes the brethren don't want the truth and express their displeasure. A conscious effort toscratch itching ears is a discredit to the scratcher anda disservice to the scratchees. Notice that Paul was aware of the fact that he would not be judged by the world or even his brethren. He knew that "God. . .trieth our hearts." (6) Paul was not a flatterer. "For neither at anytime used we flattering words. . ." (verse 5). There isa great temptation for preachers to "butter up" the brethren when they really deserve something else. Itis not wrong to encourage brethren and commendthem for worthy activities. The Lord showed that inhis appraisal of the seven churches of Asia. In the letters of Paul he always commended brethren where such was due. But he never swept troubles under therug nor failed to correct what was out of order. It issickening to hear congregations which are known tobe filled with ungodliness praised to the sky when inreality they need to be brought low in genuinerepentance. Many a young preacher has had his headturned by the flattering praise of some who perhaps

meant well, but got carried away. When an agedbrother or sister comes to you after a sermon and says "Young Man, I heard all the great preachers ofour generation, and I am here to tell you that you gave the best treatment to that subject I ever heard", you would be well advised to take such praisewith a grain of salt. Those who begin to believe suchflattery become haughty and vain and of little use tothe cause of Christ. Neither flatter an audience nor take seriously those who would flatter you.

(7) Paul did not come among them with a "cloak ofcovetousness" (verse 5). He did not view the brethrenas prospects for some business venture. He was notthere to see how much of their money he could ex tract. In the first century there were teachers whotraveled about supposing that godliness was gain.They would stay until they had fleeced the flock andthen move on to greener pastures. Paul was not ofthat caliber. Neither should we be. (8) Paul was humble in spirit. He was not "burdensome (awesome, formidable - CWA) as the apostles of Christ" (verse 6). While Paul was a genuine apostle and entitled to all the respect due one charged with such responsibilities, he had not allowedthat to make him haughty in disposition. He did notsay "See here, do you know who I am"? Or "How dare you question me to see if what I am saying isthe truth of God"! That is the attitude of some who are far removed from being an apostle. (9) In contrast, Paul said "But we were gentleamong you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children:So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel ofGod only, but also our own souls, because ye weredear unto us" (verses 7-8). It is easy for preachers tobecome so hardened that they lose all touch of gentleness. Have you ever watched a nurse in a maternity ward in a hospital as she very gentlyhandles the infants there? Preachers who delight inbaiting an audience, berating the brethren under theguise of boldness, and with callous disregard for thesensitivities of God's children, would do well to read these verses again and again. Sin and error must beexposed and corrected. But that is not done by simply bruising and maiming God's lambs. Paul loved them so much he would have laid down his life for them. When preachers of the gospel reach theplace they can say, in all honesty, what Paul saidabout the brethren in Thessalonica, then much more successful work will be done. Preacher friend, do you regard the brethren among whom you labor as "dear" unto you, or as a pain in the neck to be endured until some better offer comes along? (10) Paul was a sacrificial preacher. "For laboring night and day, because we would not be chargeableunto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel ofGod" (verse 9). When occasion required, he was willing to make tents in order to preach without charge to the brethren. At times he was sustained by support from other churches. At Thessalonica he received support "once and again" from the church atPhilippi (Phil. 4:15-16). It is right for those who preach the gospel to "live of the gospel" (1 Cor.

9:14). But a dedicated preacher will preach WHETHER THE BRETHREN PROVIDE HIS SUPPORT OR NOT.

(11) Paul behaved himself. "Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably webehaved ourselves among you that believe" (verse 10). There are some preachers about whom this cannot be said. Some are fractious, quick-tempered and vain. Some are careless with their debts. Just ask those who operate book stores how much troublethey have collecting from some preachers. Some become carriers of gossip. Some are anything but "just" in their treatment of brethren. Some are far from being "holy" in manner of life. How many timeshas the cause of Christ been injured by preachers whodid not know how to "treat the younger women assisters with all purity"? Romantic triangles (andrectangles) have ruined too many preachers over the years. God help us all to keep our hands and ourminds where they belong! Paul not only "behaved"himself among the brethren but also instructed Timothy to be an "example of the believers" (1 Tim.4:12). (12) Paul was balanced in his preaching. He said "We exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children" (verse 11). There are times when preaching must take on thenature of these three words: "Exhort", "comfort" and "charge." Every father must do all three in training his children. It is easy to "charge" while failing to "exhort." Let us not forget to "comfort" those in need of it.

The Goal of Paul's Preaching

Why did Paul preach? Why did he hazard his lifeand become the object of ridicule and scorn from anunbelieving world? Was it for financial gain or fame?If so, then he was a failure. No, verse 12 summarizes the purpose of all his preaching: "That ye would walkworthy of God. ." He was working to prepare soulsto be accepted of the Lord. He taught them so thatthey "turned to God from idols to serve the livingand true God" (1:9-10). Those who preach for anyother reason than to fit souls for eternal happinesswith God would do the world and the cause of Christ a favor by quitting until they can be properly motivated.

If congregations everywhere would receive the wordin the manner the Thessalonians did and preacherswould go about their work as Paul did, it is our persuasion that many of the tensions which developinto major congregational troubles would be relieved and the cause of truth would be served far better than is too often the case.

I have a backlog of questions most of which

accumulated during the time I was writing the

series on the GRACE — FELLOWSHIP ISSUE.

With more brevity than usual, I shall try to answer

some of these till we catch up somewhat. Also, I have

some personal letters involving an extended study of

some matters on which I have written. I wish I had

the time to answer each, but I don't. Right now I do

not foresee any possible time for such in the near

future. What I have written must suffice for the

present. What is of general interest, I shall try to

answer through this column. To give proper attention

to all the correspondence related to writing a column

like this would demand making it a full time job

of writing and a full time job for a secretary. I am not

a full time writer — primarily, I have other work

to do — and I have no secretary. I am not

complaining, I am just explaining and hoping for

understanding on the part of all. Your response is

appreciated and of value to me. It helps to determine

what questions to answer and the course to pursue

in the realm of subject matter in many instances.

QUESTION: Does the command of Hebrews 10:25refer to more than the Lord's day assembly? — A.A.

ANSWER: Yes. This becomes obvious from a

careful study of the text, context, and the practice of

the early saints.

Concerning the text four things need special notice:

1) The word "assembling" (K.J.V.) is a verbal noun, which means that reference is to the act or practice of coming together rather than to any assembly (noun) or one in particular.

2) "The day approaching" refers to a catastrophicevent that was to shake and try their faith. Jesus had foreseen and foretold signs by which they could see its approach — when he spake of God's judgment upon Israel, the destruction of Jerusalem, and theruin of the temple (Matt. 24). Concerning that time Jesus said "And because iniquity shall abound the love of many shall wax cold" (Matt. 24:12). No wonder we read "And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works" (Heb. 10:24). In the context the Hebrew writer exhorts them to remember a former experience in which they weretriumphant in faith and to use it as a means of encouragement now (Heb. 10:32-35).

3) The word "forsaking" means to "abandon, leave in straits, or helpless" (W. E. Vine). This "forsaking" is identified as the "manner" (habit or custom) of some. Some have the same habit today.

They "abandon" or "leave behind" every meeting of

the saints save perhaps one, namely Sunday

morning. Still others have gone so far that even

their presence on Sunday morning would be

contrary to their "manner" (habit or custom).

4) The "exhorting" is the provoking of v. 24. This

spiritual encouragement and strength is missed by

those who absent themselves from such assemblies.

This verse reveals God's plan by which saints

fortify themselves against any time of trial. We may

not always see such approaching, but come it will. If

in view of present circumstances it be foreseen that

the future security of saints is threatened by a wave

of digression or any test of faith, here is authority to

increase the number of assemblies and to intensify

the exhortation therein as a preparatory measure to

future security.

The early church assembled often. Obviously, the

authority for one was specific as to day (Acts 20:7).

Others, however, are authorized generically (Acts

2:42, 46; 14:27; 19:9, 10). The responsibilities of the

elders, the urgent need for indoctrination, and

prevailing circumstances determine when and how

often such assemblies should be scheduled (Acts

20:28; Heb. 13:17; Titus 2; Heb. 5:12-14; 1 Cor.

3:1-3; Phil. 1;9, 10; 2 Tim. 2:15; Heb. 10:25).

It should be axiomatic that moral obligationssometimes take precedence over positive commands.Furthermore, excepting the Lord's day assembly, legitimate obligations elsewhere may conflict with other assemblies set by generic authority (judgmentof man). God knows whether or not one's absence from such is because of a legitimate obligation elsewhere or indifference. Upon this basis one mustgive an account in judgment,

QUESTION: Does the pronoun "you" in Matt. 3:11 mean that all of John's disciples as well as all disciples of Christ were to be baptized with the Holy Ghost? — E.L.

ANSWER: No! If so, notice that the same "you" were also to be baptized "with fire." Yet, the next verse (part of the same sentence) shows this baptismby fire to be the punishment of the wicked: "Whosefan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge hisfloor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but hewill burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire." Thus,the rest of the sentence identifies the baptism of fire,and at the same time shows that it is an error to apply it to the "tongues like as of fire" (Emphasis MEP) of Acts 2:3.

John is emphasizing the superiority of Christ andoffers as proof the power of Christ to administer baptisms which neither he nor any man could administer. The recipients of the baptism of the HolyGhost and the baptism of fire must be identified fromthe context and from what is revealed elsewhere. Such study shows the apostles to be the recipients ofthe former (Lk. 24:49-53; Acts 1:1-9; 2:1-4); thewicked to be the recipients of the latter (Matt. 3:12; Rev. 20:12-15).

QUESTION: Does "no not to eat" (1 Cor. 5:11)refer to the Lord's supper or to a common meal? — M.B.

ANSWER: The phrase "no not to eat" is in apposition to "not to keep company" found in the same verse (also v. 9). This means that the expression explains further what is involved in "not to keep company." Since Paul says "not to keep company" does not apply to the world (v. 10), itfollows that the eating forbidden is eating engagedin with the world, hence, a common meal. The idea isto preclude any social communion with a brotherthat would imply encouragement and endorsement ofevil.

Let me anticipate and answer another question justhere. This does not preclude the fulfilling of dutiesthat grow out of the husband and wife relationship orthose involved toward other relatives. Such fulfillment of duties involve more than social communion that would imply endorsement of evil.

PURSUE HOSPITALITY

Do you receive and entertain strangers and guests

in a friendly and generous way? If you do, then you

are a hospitable person because this is what

hospitality involves.

The Bible has a great deal to say on the subject ofhospitality, and I encourage all of us to measure ourselves by the teaching set forth therein to see ifwe come up to God's expectations. "The 'hospitality' of today, by which is meant the entertainment of friends or relatives, hardly comes within the Bib. useof the term as denoting a special virtue" (I.S.B.E., Vol3, p. 1433).

Hospitality, A Responsibility

Vividly set forth in the Scriptures is the responsibility of every Christian to show hospitality.The Bible teaches the following:

(1) Given to hospitality. Paul wrote, "Distributing to the necessity of the saints; given to hospitality"(Rom. 12:13). Some other translations have, "Practice hospitality." "Given" means "to pursue." "The idea is that Christ's disciple is not to passively wait till hospitality is unavoidable, but he is to be aggressively hospitable, seeking opportunity to entertain strangers" Standard Bible Commentary, McGarvey & Pendleton, p. 499). Lenski states, "Hospitality is literally to be chased after as one hunts an animal and delights to carry the booty home" (Com. on Romans, p. 773). (2) Using hospitality. "Using hospitality one to another without grudging" (1 Pet. 4:9). Another way to put it is, "Extend or offer hospitality withoutcomplaining or secretly wishing you did not have to."Generosity is costly and time-consuming. Consequently, many neglect it. Others feel duty-bound tohave guests, but murmur about the annoyance forhours before they come and after they leave. This should not be. (3) Forget not to entertain. "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares" (Heb. 13:2). "Be not forgetful" simply means, "Do not neglect." It is easyto let "George" do it, but by shunning my responsibility, I rob myself of great blessings because somehave entertained angels unawares. More on this point, later. (4) Qualification for an elder. Among the qualifications of elders is "hospitality." Paul told

Timothy that an elder is to be "given to hospitality'

(1 Tim. 3:2). The apostle told Titus that an elder is

to be "a lover of hospitality" (Titus 1:8).

An elder is to be an example to the flock (1 Pet,

5:3). One of the things he must exemplify is

"hospitality." If he is inhospitable, then he is not

qualified to be an elder in the church of God.

(5) Qualification for enrollment of widows. There was a special class of widows in the early churchwho were enrolled for special functions and duties (1Tim. 5:9-10). Among the qualifications, as revealedin verse 10, was "if she have lodged strangers." The lives of these women had been filled with goodworks. How we need this kind of sisters in the church of our Lord.

Jesus and Hospitality

While Jesus was here in the flesh, he touched uponhospitality on different occasions. Too, Jesus recognized the importance of hospitality because hisministry depended a great deal upon the goodness ofothers.

(1) Limited Commission. In sending out the twelve to the Jews, he told them that "they should take nothing for their journey, save a staff only; no scrip, no bread, no money in their purse . . .In what place soever ye enter into an house, there abide till ye depart from that place" (Mark 6:8, 10). The sustenance of life for the disciples was to beprovided by other people. In Matthew 10:14 we read: "And into whatsoever city or town ye shallenter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence." (2) Cup of cold water. Jesus does not overlook our generosity and kindness, even the very small things. Listen to him: "And whosoever shall give todrink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I sayunto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward" (Matt.10:42). Any of us is able to do this much. We do not have to be lavish to be hospitable. (3) Judgment scene. Among the thingsthat justify or condemn those at the judgment willbe hospitality or a lack of it. To the redeemed Jesuswill say, "For I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in" (Matt. 25:35).

To the cursed, we hear Jesus saying, "I was a stranger, and ye took me not in. . ." (v. 43). Theexplanation of how hospitality was not shown to Jesus is given in verse 45. It states, ". . .Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me." Hospitality is serious business. We might ask ourselves: "Would Jesus be welcome in ourhouse?" He probably would not be if his disciples arenot welcome.

(4) Jesus accepted hospitality. After he taughtin the synagogue at Capernaum, he entered the homeof Simon and Andrew, with James and John. He healed Simon's mother-in-law, who was sick of a fever. After she was healed, she ministered unto them (Mark 1:29-31). We find Jesus eating in the houseof Levi (Mark 2:14-15) and lodging in the home ofSimon the leper at Bethany (Mark 14:3). Jesus also was a guest

at times in the home of Lazarus, Mary and Martha atBethany.

Examples of Hospitality

There is an abundance of examples in the Bible ofpeople who opened up their homes to strangers.

(1) Abraham (Gen. 18:1-8). At the plains of Mamre, Abraham entertained three angels, thinking they were men. He ran out to meet them,asking that water be brought to wash their feet andbread for them to eat. A calf was slaughtered and afeast was prepared to satisfy their hunger. (2) Lot (Gen. 19:1-3). Two angels were receivedinto the home of Lot at Sodom. He, too, thoughtthey were men. A feast was made for them. (3) Aquila and Priscilla (Acts 18:2-3; Rom. 16:5). When Paul went to Corinth, he abode with Aquila and Priscilla. They kept the preacher while hepreached at Corinth. Too, we read in Rom. 16:5 thatthe church met in their house. What goodness!Philemon had also opened up his house for the churchto meet (Philemon 2). (4) Lydia (Acts 16:15). "And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to theLord, come into my house, and abide there. And sheconstrained us." (5) House of Stephanus (1 Cor. 16:15). Paul said that this family had "addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints." This good family had devotedthemselves to aiding and assisting the wants andneeds of God's people. (6) Gaius (3 John 5-6). Through the unselfish efforts of this saint, different ones were sent forth ontheir journey. Brethren had borne witness of his charity. (7) Philip (Acts 21:8). Returning from the third missionary journey, Paul and company came to Caesarea and "entered into the house of Philip theevangelist, which was one of the seven; and abodewith him." The homes of many preachers have become the abode of other gospel preachers. (8) Philippian jailor (Acts 16:34). After the jailor's conversion, along with his household, Paul and Silaswere taken into the jailor's house and meat was set before them. It did not take the jailor very long tostart showing hospitality. (9) Brethren at Jerusalem (Acts 2:46). We are told that they, those at Jerusalem, broke bread from house to house, and did eat their meat (food)with gladness and singleness of heart. Members of the church opened their homes for meals and socialinterchange. How we need more of this today among Christians.

No wonder, in view of the foregoing examples, thatthe heathen spoke of the love and affection that theearly Christians had for one another.

Motives for Hospitality

There are several different motives or incentives for practicing hospitality. We will notice four.

(1) Love. For a person to be the kind of ChristianGod expects, he must have love — love that is kind,beneficent, unselfish and of good-will. Hospitality is a part of the qualities of love, the agapao love. Hence, to be a loving person, one must be hospitable. Compare 1 John 4:7; Heb. 6:10.

(2) Serves the gospel. By sheltering and feedingpreachers of the gospel, one contributes to the furtherance of truth and the cause of Christ. We mightnot be able to be preachers, but we can providesustenance of life to enable others to preach. Listento John: "We therefore ought to receive such that wemight be fellowhelpers to the truth" (3 John 8). (3) Divine gift. After Peter said, "Usinghospitality one to another" (1 Pet. 4:9), he stated inverse 10, "As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as goodstewards of the manifold grace of God." Our beingable to help others is a gift of God. We who havebeen richly blessed, as good stewards, should minister to others. Of course, the principle here wouldapply to any talents we have. (4) Blessings received. We should entertain strangers because some have entertained angelsunawares (Heb. 13:2). This does not mean that we, too, may entertain angels, unknowingly. It does mean that as Abraham and Lot were blessed by showing hospitality to angels, thinking they were men, we in like-manner will be blessed as a result of showing hospitality.

It is rewarding to be able to do something forsomebody else. It is profitable because a closer tiehas been established. It is beneficial to hear about the guest's experiences and gleaning from him Bibleknowledge, particularly preachers.

Brethren, in conclusion, let's not permit hospitality to become a lost virtue. Let's seek it, pursue it, and affectionately practice it whenever the opportunityavails itself.

WAS PETER POPE?

The recent funerals and subsequent elections and coronations of two Popes within two months withtheir colorful ceremonies and prime news media coverage has brought this subject to the attention ofpractically everybody in the world. It is appropriate,therefore, for us to make an objective study of thisall important question, since it affects our relationship with Christ Himself, and therefore our eternal destiny.

I hasten to say that our study will be a sincere investigation of what the BIBLE teaches on this momentous question, and is not intended in any way to reflect personally on any Pope or person. I certainly find no pleasure in the death of any one;and this holds true with respect to the deaths of these two Popes, but quite to the contrary, mypersonal feelings are always sober and sympathetic for any and all whose hearts are touched by the cold,

harsh hand of death.

When we stand in the solemn presence of death, we

are gripped by its grim reality and awesome cruelty.

Death is a monster of such magnitude that it

immediately brings to mind our inability to cope with

it and our dire need for God. Death is super-human

and we need a super-human Being to cope with it.

Death is not only the enemy of man, but also of

DEITY (1 Cor. 15:26). As we reflect on death and

God, we think of the hereafter, and the Judgment of

God. We hear God's Word as it solemnly declares "It

is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the

judgment" (Heb. 9:27). And again, "For we must

ALL appear before the judgment seat of Christ: that

everyone may receive the things done in his body,

according to that he hath done, whether it be good or

bad" (2 Cor. 5:10). And again, God's inspired

servant, John, says, "And I saw the dead, small and

great, stand before God; and the books were opened:

and another book was opened, which is the book of

life: and the dead were judged out of those things

which were written in the books, according to their

works".

These solemn thoughts should open our hearts and minds to the teaching of God's Holy Book, the Bible.And, the death of these two popes and the election ofnew ones, likewise, suggests that we reflect on the certainty and soundness and validity of such a position as he occupies in relation to our souls. Thereare far more people who do not believe that Christordained the office of Pope, than there are who do. Itbehooves us therefore to fairly and honestly "examine ourselves, whether we be in the faith", as the Apostle Paul admonishes in 2 Cor. 13:5.

Is The Pope The Vicar Of Christ?

It is with all humility, and with fear and tremblingbefore God, that I undertake the study of this greatquestion: "DID THE LORD JESUS CHRIST APPOINT THE OFFICE OF POPE, OR VICAR?" On the right answer to this question hangs our eternal destiny — just as much so, as the right answer to the question as to whether or not Jesus of Nazareth is the Christ, the Son of the living God.

Catholics claim that Christ made Peter, and his successors, His Vicar or representative, and the visible head of His church — the Supreme Ruler of allthe earth. If this is true, then surely we all must admit that such an office would indeed be the highest, the greatest, the most colossal office on allthe earth — that one should be the Vicar, or Viceroy ofHim who created the World and all things therein,and under whom is subjected "all principality and power and might and dominion" (Eph. 1:21). Is the Pope, indeed, the VICAR of the Lord & Saviour Jesus Christ? This is the question. Our Roman Catholic friends answer "yes", but more than twicethat many people — people who believe in Jesus Christand the Bible — answer "no". Which answer is right?

If the right answer to this question is "yes", thenall men must acknowledge him as such, as surely aswe must acknowledge the Lord Jesus Christ; and toreject him would be all the same as rejecting the Lord

Jesus Christ. And, on the other hand, IF the answer

is "no, he is NOT the VICAR of Christ", then surely

the office of Pope is the greatest FRAUD ever

perpetrated on men of the earth.

Now, friends, there is no two ways about it; either

the Pope IS the Vicar of Christ, or else he is NOT.

Both answers cannot possibly be true. One or the

other of them must be wrong. Which is it? Which one

is right? And which one is wrong? And what a whale

of a difference it makes! If the Pope IS the Vicar of

Christ, then all who reject him are really rejecting

Christ and stand condemned before God; and, if he is

NOT the Vicar of Christ, then all who follow him are

following an impostor and are therefore rejecting

Christ and they stand condemned before God. There

is no middle ground. We invite your prayerful

consideration to the study of this important question.

4 Things To Consider

In order to properly study this question, we must

first determine whether or not the Lord Jesus Christ

ever established such an office, or position, as that of

"Vicar of Christ", or "Pope". Then, secondly, we

must inquire into whether or not Christ made Peter

the first officer — that is, the first person to occupy

such an office. Then, the next step would be to learn

whether or not Christ ordained that there be a

succession, and then, and only then, would we be

ready to consider whether or not such a succession

has been complete and uncorrupt to this present

time. So, in order to answer our question: Is the

Pope the Vicar of Christ, we need to study the

following points in this order — because any other

order would be to beg the question: (1) Did Jesus

Christ establish the office or position of Vicar of

Christ? (2) Who was the first officer, or person to fill

that office? (3) Did the Lord Jesus Christ ordain a

succession, and (4) Has that succession been

complete and uncorrupt to this present day?

Did Christ Establish The Office of Pope? I invite your attention to the first of these questions: Did Jesus Christ, the Son of God, establish the OFFICE of Pope, or Vicar? Friends, you wouldthink that an office of such magnitude would surelybe very carefully and clearly pointed out in God's revelation to man — the Bible, but such is not the case. There is not ONE — no, not even ONE, Bible reference that can be given that clearly announcesthis colossal office. If Christ had established such an office, He certainly would have named it, and definedit, by stating its powers and duties, and giving thequalifications for its officers, but there is no referenceto any of these in all the Bible — not ONE verse!

Friends, I realize that this is a very serious charge,but one that is well worthy of your serious consideration — One that challenges the very bestthat is in us. If the Bible names and defines this office, then where is the passage? Do you know of one? If youdo, then tell me where it is and I will gladly admit thatI am wrong, and make corrections accordingly. But, ifnot, then the office of Pope is spurious, and millionsof good people are deceived and deluded and walking in darkness. Do you think enough of your soul, and of the truth of God to investigate the matter?

When God appointed the LEVITICAL

PRIESTHOOD, He named the office and gave

detailed instructions about its functions and powers.

Leviticus 8-10, and many other passages, give clear

instructions regarding this office.

The office of elders, (and deacons), in the church ofChrist is clearly named and their qualifications andduties plainly stated. But nowhere in all the Bible do we find an office to be filled by a Pope; nor, anyqualifications to be possessed in order to fill such anoffice; nor, do we find any of its powers and dutiesdefined. We are constrained to conclude, therefore, that from the standpoint of God's inspired Word, theBible, no provision was made for a Pope.

Not only are we left without a single hint or allusion in the Bible to there being an office of Pope,or Vicar of Christ, but the Bible is specific in stating,

"Brethren, consider THE Apostle and High Priest ofour profession, Jesus Christ" (Heb. 3:1). Christ is not "A" high Priest, but "THE" HIGH PRIEST, leaving no room for another.

Pope A Sub-Head

To prove that the church must have a head doesnot prove the office of Pope. Christ is the head of thechurch according to Col. 1:18; Eph. 1:22-23. etc. It must be established that the church has a sub-head — a Vicar or Viceroy — a representative or proxy — that iswhat the Pope is supposed to be. The Scriptures teachthat Christ is the one and ONLY head of the Church (Ephesians 1:22-23). In Ephesians 5:22-23 the ApostlePaul declares, "Christ is head of the Church, beingHimself savior of the body — (and) the church is subject to Christ". This Scripture plainly states that the church is "subject to Christ", and not to Peter as Christ's Vicar. Certainly, if Christ had appointed aVicar to be the head of the Church, the Apostle Paulwould have known it, and the Holy Spirit would surelyhave inspired him to have mentioned it at least once insome of His writings, especially in His discourse on thehead of the church and to whom the church is subject.Beloved, God's inspired Word says that the church is"subject to Christ" and says nothing at all about aVicar or Pope. How then can some people say that the church is subject to the Pope as Christ's representative? Friends, I cannot find any authorityfor such an office other than human.

In Ephesians 4:11 Paul lists the officers of the church over which Christ is the head, he says, "and He gave some men as apostles, and some as prophets, others again evangelists, and others as pastors and teachers". In this list the inspired writer names apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, but NO POPE. Here would have been a most logical place to mention the office of Pope, butalas, it isn't there. Since it is not listed here, nor elsewhere in God's Sacred Oracles, we confidentlyaffirm that such an office did not exist. No, my friends, there is absolutely no positive or express institution of the office of Pope, nor of one's call and consecration to such an office, nor any law of succession whatsoever in all the New Testament!

GOD'S PATTERN FOR CONVERSION ORGANIZATION, WORSHIP & WORK #3

WORSHIP God's pattern for worship is really very simple.Four of the five items of worship are set forth in oneverse of Scripture. "And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breakingof bread, and in prayers" (Acts 2:42). This passage shows the early Christians were teaching, (apostles' doctrine), they were giving of their means (fellowship), partaking of the Lord's Supper (breakingof the bread), and in prayer. In addition to this, weare commanded to sing. "Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing andmaking melody in your heart to the Lord" (Ephesians5:19). "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly inall wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another inpsalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing withgrace in your hearts to the Lord" (Colossians 3:16).Instructions are given as to the kind of songs we areto sing. They are, as shown in the above passages,psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Also, the kind ofmusic God wants in worship to him is also set forthin his pattern. Vocal music (singing) is the only kindof music authorized in the New Testament Scriptures.There is no more authority for a mechanical instrument of music in the worship than there is forhillbilly songs. For God in his pattern for music hasauthorized the kind of music he wants (vocal), andthe kind of songs he wants us to sing. To do anything else would be to go beyond God's patternfor music. Instructions are also given as to the day the Lord'sSupper and giving are to be done. "And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them,ready to depart on the morrow: and continued hisspeech until midnight" (Acts 20:7). "Upon the firstday of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God has prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come" (I Corinthians 16:2). No other day (other than the first day of the week) isauthorized on which these items of worship were performed. Thus, we have God's pattern on this subject.

WORK

In this particular part of our study, we want todiscuss the work of the church. We will not be discussing (except perhaps by contrast) the work of the individual Christian. We are concerned with God's pattern for collective action of the church.

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is authorized (such as traveling, teaching, and baptizing), unless God tells us how the thing is to bedone, then whatever method (way) and aids are necessary in carrying out that which is authorized,may be used. A word of caution. We must be sure God authorized a work before we can use any method in carrying it out. For there is no right way to do athing that God has not authorized.

We might note just here that the word "church" isused in three different senses in the New Testament. However, God has only given one of them (the localassembly) the authority to have organization or a treasury.

Acts 11:22-24 — "Then tiding of these things cameunto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go asfar as Antioch. Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all,that with purpose of heart they should cleave untothe Lord. For he was a good man, and full of theHoly Spirit and of faith: and much people was addedto the Lord." Philippians 4:15-16 — "Now ye Philippians know also,that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departedfrom Macedonia, no church communicated with me asconcerning giving and receiving, but ye only. For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto mynecessity."

II Corinthians' 11:8-9 — "I robbed other churches, taking wages of them, to do you service. And when Iwas present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man: for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied: andin all things I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and so will I keep myself." Acts14:26-27 — "And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended by the grace ofGod for the work which they fulfilled. And when theywere come, and had gathered the church together,they rehearsed all that God had done with them, andhow he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles."

In evangelism and edification we can see God's pattern for the church and what He has authorizedit to do. Brethren have, however, devised other plansfor evangelism in what is commonly referred to as"the sponsoring church arrangement."

the lower part of the chart. Let me further illustrateit with the following chart.

DEPRAVITY PROOF TEXTS EXAMINED

As pointed out in our previous article there are several passages from the word of God that bothJohn Calvin and R.L. Kilpatrick pervert in order toteach total depravity. They are Job 14:4; Psm. 51:5,Rom. 5:12 and Eph. 2:3.

I want to notice these passages along with someothers that are used by perverters of the word of Godto teach error of total depravity or inherited sin.

(1) Lev. 12. Some have said the Levitical law for purification implies children are born in sin. True,that "a sin offering" was made, but "atonement" wasmade for "her," the mother, not for the child. (2) Job. 11:2 says "though man be born like a wild ass's colt" and this is supposed to teach depravity.The colt is born with a body and animal life, and manis born with a body and animal life, but, man is born with a spirit. Unless one is willing to say a colt isborn with a spirit, he does not have a parallel. (3) Job. 14:4 asks "who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean?" The verse does not say women are unclean or that man is born depraved. This is justassumed. (4) Job. 25:4 asks "how can he be clean that is born of a woman?" and it is assumed this teaches depravity. This statement was made by Bildad (Job25:1) whom Job described as a forger of lies (Job 13:4). Verse 4 also asks "how then can man be justified with God?" If one can be justified with God,then one can be clean who is born of woman. If one born of woman cannot be clean, then one cannot bejustified with God. (5) Psm. 14:2-3 says "they are all gone aside,they are all together become filthy; there is none thatdoeth good, no, not one." The passage says "they aregone aside" not that they were "born aside." They are "become filthy" not they were "born filthy." (6) Psalms 51:5 says "in sin did my mother conceive me." David said "I acknowledge my transgressions; and my sin is ever before me." Why wasDavid guilty of sin? He said in verse 4 "against thee,thee only have I sinned, and done this evil." Davidsaid he sinned, not that he was born in sin. David said "My mother" "in sin" "did" "conceive me". This was action upon the part, not of David, but ofhis mother. David was a sinner because of his own sin, not the sin of his mother. (7) Psalms 58:3-4. It is said that "estranged fromthe womb" means from birth, thus babies are born insin. Note in verse 2 it is said "in heart ye work

wickedness," in verse 3 it says "they go astray" not born astray. They also are said to be "speaking lies"but who ever saw one born speaking? Verse 6 saysthey have "great teeth." This does not describe infants but people who after birth "go astray."

(8) Proverbs 23:7 says "as he thinketh in his heart, so is he" and this is joined with Gen. 6:5 which says "the thoughts of his heart was only evilcontinually" and this is supposed to teach depravity.Genesis 6:5 refers to man before the flood, but Noah found grace with God (Gen. 6:8). Noah preachedrighteousness (2 Peter 2:5) and his generation could have turned to God but it didn't. Proverbs 23:7 says one is what he thinks in his heart, but depravity says one is evil in heart from birth without thinking. (9) Eccl. 7:20 says "there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not." This is not talking about new born babies; it says "man". Not only is it speaking of man, it is speaking of a "just man." This is a general statement of truth. Verse 29 of this chapter says" "God hath made man upright" and after being made upright "they have sought out many inventions." (10) Eccl. 8:11 "the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil." Observe that these set their own heart, they were not born with their heartsset. The reason why this is true is "because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily." Ezraprepared or set his heart to seek the law of the Lord(Ezra 7:10). Was Ezra born this way or did he do thisafter his birth? (11) Isa. 1:5-6 says "the whole head is sick, andthe whole heart faint. From the sole of the foot even unto the head there is no soundness in it" and it is assumed this teaches depravity. Verse 4 shows the prophet is talking about the "sinful nation" of Israel, which has "forsaken the Lord." They were not born away from God. Also, verse 4 says "they are gone away backward." They were backward because oftheir going, not because of their birth. From verses 18-20 it is seen that their sins which are described as being "scarlet" and "crimson" could be "white" as snow and wool "if ye be willing and obedient." Depravity says one could not be "willing" without a direct operation of the Holy Spirit. (12) Jer. 6:10 says "they cannot hearken: behold the word of the Lord is unto them a reproach; they have no delight in it." The reason why "they cannot hearken" was because they hadno delight in the word of the Lord, it was a reproachunto them. They said "we will not walk therein." From verse 15 they were among those that will fall and in verse 21 they "shall perish." Of such an attitude, Jesus quoted Isaiah in Mt. 13:14-15 and said "their eyes they have closed." When people turn away from hearing the word of God, they cannot hear the word of God. (13) Jer. 13:23 raises the question "Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots?" Since the skin of the Ethiopian could not be changedand a leopard cannot change his spots, it is arguedthat man cannot change his nature. It is not the nature of man that needs changing; it is his conduct.Since the Ethiopian is not responsible for changing his skin or the leopard his spots, then,

according to the doctrine of depravity, man is not responsible for changing his conduct. This places theresponsibility upon God for man being depraved. If man is lost, God is responsible. Why was this said ofGod's people? Verse 22 says they were guilty of "iniquity." Verse 23 informs us they were "accustomed to do evil" and verse 25 says they had"forgotten" God and had "trusted in falsehood." People who forget God, do evil, walk in iniquity and trust in falsehood cannot be doing good.

(14) Rom. 3:11-18. This passage is quoted and ismade to say that children are born in sin. Verses 1012 quote Psalms 14 where "the children, of men" aresaid to have "gone aside" and "become filthy"; theywere not born that way. They could not have "goneout of the way" unless they were first in the way. Observe verse 13 says "their throat is an open sepulcher;" is this said of infants? "With their tongues they have used deceit;" is this said of infants? Is "the poison of asps is under their lips"said of infants or adults? Verse 14 says their "mouth is full of cursing and bitterness;" is this said of infants at the time of birth? Verse 15 says "their feet are swift to shed blood;" is this said of infants? Verse 16 says "destruction and misery are in their way;" was this said of infants? (15) Rom. 5:12 says "by one man sin entered intothe world, and death by sin; so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned." This is supposed to teach a baby is born depraved. However observe that "since by man came death, by man came also theresurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive" (I Cor. 15:21-22). Physical death is a consequence of Adam's sin; separation from God or spiritual death comes toall who follow Adam by sinning. If all men are born in sin as a result of Adam's sin, then all men will be made alive unconditionally in Christ. If this teaches unconditional, universal condemnation in Adam, why would we not have unconditional, universal salvation in Christ? Romans 5:12 teaches the reason "death passed upon all men" is because "all have sinned;" not because they were born in sin. (16) Rom. 5:15 says, in part, "through the offenseof one many be dead" and "dead" is supposed to teach "born in sin." If by Adam all men un conditionally are born in sin, then by Jesus Christ all men unconditionally shall be saved. Yet, Calviniststeach only the "elect" will be saved. (17) Rom. 5:16 says "the judgment was by one to condemnation" and this we are told by Calvinists means all men are born in sin. Observe that the verse says "one that sinned." The sinner is the one thatsinned; not those who inherited sin. If this verse teaches universal damnation, it also teaches universal salvation. (18) Rom. 5:17 says "death reigned by one" and again this is supposed to teach we are born in sin.But if all are dead spiritually because of Adam's sin,then all are spiritually alive because of the sacrifice ofChrist. (19) Rom. 5:18 says "by the offense of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation" and this is supposed to teach depravity. But notice that

this verse teaches "by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life."If this verse teaches universal damnation, it alsoteaches unconditional, universal salvation.

(20) Rom. 5:19 says "by one man's disobedience many were made sinners" and again this is supposed to teach depravity. Observe the restof the verse says "so by the obedience of one shallmany be made righteous." If depravity is taught inthis verse, then unconditional, universal salvation isalso taught. Are men made sinners unconditionallyor do they have to sin in order to be sinners? Aschool makes teachers, but it does not make teachersunconditionally. (21) Rom. 8:6-7. From this passage it is argued that the "carnal mind" is the "unconverted mind" and the unconverted mind is not subject to the law of God because of depravity. The marginal reading saysof "carnally minded" "the minding of the flesh." Thisis in keeping with the context for in verses 1, 4 and 5Paul speaks of the "flesh" in contrast to the "Spirit". One minding the flesh is not following theteaching of the Spirit. One can choose to live afterthe flesh or the Spirit (verse 13). (22) Eph. 2:1 says some were "dead in trespassesand sins". The word "dead" is used sometimes in the sense of physical death in the Bible. It is also used inthe sense of spiritual death. The word "dead" means"separation" (Jas. 2:26). Sins or iniquities had separated Israel from God (Isa. 59:1-2). These Ephesians had been separated from God when theywere in sin. If to be dead means that one cannot do any good deed or have any good thought, and this iswhat Calvinists mean by "dead in sin," then Christians can do no good deeds because they are"dead;" the Romans were "dead to sin" (Rom. 6:2)and the Colossians, Paul, said "are dead" (Col. 3:2).The sinner is separated from God because of his sin;the Christian is separated from sin, having died tosin (Rom. 6:2). (23) Eph. 2:3 says in part that the Ephesians "were by nature the children of wrath." Calvinists make "by nature" mean "by birth." The word "nature" Thayer defines on page 660 to mean "amode of feeling and acting which by long habit hasbecome nature". The Gentiles had so long practicedsin, that it became natural for them, or, as we wouldsay "it is second nature" for them to sin. They werethe children of wrath because of their long timepractice of sin; not because they were born in sin.

YOU'RE A GOOD MAN. CHRIS GETTELFINGER

Actually, I don't know if Gettlefinger is a goodman or not, but there are some good things abouthim that we could all emulate. It may be that someof our foreign readers do not know who Chris Gettelfinger is. We'll ask the vast majority of our readersto patiently bear with us as we explain that he playsbasketball (though not often) for the University ofKentucky.

Confession is good for the soul, therefore I shall now acknowledge that I, not being an ardent basketball fan, didn't know who he was either. ButOwensboro sports writer, Mike Smith, called the 6foot, 2 inch sophomore to my attention in a January10, 1979, editorial. I found some of his comments thought provoking and applicable to our Christian vocation.

Smith compared our hero to an old high schoolbuddy by the name of Sam Carcova. Sam, like Gettlefinger, was on the basketball team, but heseldom got to play. One year, he went the entireseason without scoring a single point. But in warm-ups, he was terrific. He always made his lay-ups,right handed and left, just like the rest. His friendsin the stands took notice, and decided that Samneeded some appreciation.

"On the final night of the season, when Sambanked in his first shot in our warm-up drill, the gym exploded with a roar usually reserved for last-secondheroics. Soon the cheers became a chant, 'Sam, Sam, Sam.' And there was a sign, 'Congratulations, Sam —1,000 career warm-up points.'

"Those kids were saying thanks to Sam for hanging in there, going to practice everyday, andworking just as hard and caring just as muchabout what happened to the team as the starters."

Chris Gettlefinger fits the same mold. He didn't get a berth on the U. K. squad by being scouted,wooed, charmed, and promised everything. He justshowed up for practice last year and made the team.In games, you know where to find him. He's seated on the U. K. bench. But he's not sour about that. He says:

"I realize they're four players ahead of me at myposition. If I can't beat them out, I have to findanother way to help the team. So I work on preparing our guards to face certain opponentsby acting out those opponent's moves in practice.If it's done any good, I'm glad."

In other words, he's happy to be number 5, so long

as he's making a contribution, and doing his best. Considering how often the apostle, Paul, referred tothe athletic contests of his day, I don't believe hewould frown on using the Sam Carcova's and Chris Gettlefinger's to illustrate something else he said:

"Nay, much more those members of the body,which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: andthose members of the body, which we think to beless honorable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness" (1 Cor. 12:22, 23).

Let us thank God for those in the church who have but one or two talents, but use them rather thanbury them. A word of appreciation to them wouldn'thurt either. Something like: "Thanks for hanging in there!"

BABY BEER NO LONGER HERE

In the January issue of STS we wrote under theheading: "Baby Beer is Here." The article concerned the publicized effort of the Anheuser-Busch Brewing Company to market a "soft drink" with a very low percentage of alcohol content, that children could legally purchase in most states.

We are happy to report that because of substantialopposition, the following changes have been announced by the St. Louis-based company.

1. The fermented malt base, similar to that used in the brewing of beer, was removed, resulting in thelowering of the alcohol content from 0.4 percent tothe trace levels common to all soft drinks.
2. Removal of the malt base, together with otheralterations in the product, also reduced the foam orhead to the level of other soft drinks.
3. The bottle color was changed from clear to emerald green.
4. All references to alcohol and the front-panel name "Anheuser-Busch" were deleted.
5. A new advertising theme was introduced, em- phasizing the natural ingredients in Chelsea, ratherthan the old Chelsea's alcohol content.

So fortunately, the plans to market this productfailed to materialize. But we shall throw no roses in the direction of the booze makers. Only an outcry ofpublic opposition made them modify their plans. Such demonstrates that it pays to speak out andstand up for convictions. Solomon declared: "Cast thybread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it aftermany days. Give a portion to seven, and also toeight; for thou knowest not what evil shall be uponthe earth" (Eccl. 11:1, 2). To some shortsightedcitizens, it may have seemed ridiculous for the King to send forth his goods in ships upon the Mediterranean. But he expected a return of rich cargoafter many days.

Such is usually applied to using our material resources with a sense of benevolent responsibility.But it may also find application in the wise andactive use of our time, energy, and efforts to "let ourlights shine."

THE LEGS OF THE LAME ARE UNEQUAL

Though this item will include mention of one whois literally lame, the above caption applies to the hypocrisy and lack of integrity of a renowned religious leader.

". . .a news item that appeared in The Dallas Times Herald last year. A young Veteran, whose legs were paralyzed, applied to his (Oral Roberts) university for admission, and was refused. The

reason: 'It would cost too much to install ramps, andwould be unsettling for the other students.'" (Thequote is taken from the bulletin of the Palm SpringsDrive Church of Christ in Orlando, Florida, and isfrom a reader's letter to the editor, James P. Needham.)

Can you imagine that from one who claims to bean Ambassador of Him who shunned not to lay hishands on the lame, the lepers, the blind, the lunatic . . . ? Can you conceive of such a statementfrom a man who still claims the power from God toheal all such maladies, as his miracle magazine amplydemonstrates?

As Bro. Needham concluded: "Well did Paul describe such racketeers when he said they are 'menof corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing godliness is a way of gain . . '" (1 Tim. 6:5).

MARRIAGE

The subject of this article is representative of thosesubjects and relationships which receive repeatedattention in the Bible. Marriage and the dissolution of marriage, to which we will address ourselves in alater article, are issues demanding constant attention and incessant study. The issue of marriage and divorce includes some of the most serious problemsever to challenge the hearts and lives of men, women,boys and girls. To deny the increasing scope andmagnitude of this issue is to ignore the facts.

There is a constant rise in the number and percentage of marriages ending in divorce. Comparisonbetween marriage licenses and dissolutions of marriage in court records of most newspapers emphasize the facts. Hardly a family is not in someway affected by the problem. Members of the church,you and I, for the most part, are not excepted. In the morally decadent societies of history, ignoring thesanctity of the home and diminishing respect for apure marital relationship, has figured prominently intheir fall. Our own day and time is seeing a decline inmorals which is evidenced by disregard for marriage,home and family. Living together without marriagehas come to be viewed by our society as "being free."Void of legal fetters, such a relationship argues "real love" as the cohesive force. Unfaithfulness has become the rule in many marriages and divorce is the norm in our society.

Constant exposure to these concepts in the world inwhich we live dulls sensibilities to truth and right.Soap operas and TV, the movie screen and novels have combined to glamorize this expression of ungodliness and a gullible generation is being brainwashed. We need to awaken to the threat, cultivate an awareness and become thoroughly conversant with truth. Then, stand for truth without apology, recognizing that moral conditions do not alter the law of God.

It is in full recognition of the improbability of solving every problem of those who have put away acompanion for every cause to marry another that I,in faith and hope, address myself to the positive sideof the issue, marriage. It just may be that such astudy will help those who are bound to each other tocherish the richness of marriage and make a sincerecontribution to its beauty as far as they are personally concerned. In so doing God will be glorified.

Marriage is a divine institution in which God's will and principles are to be followed rather than man's selfish inclination. In any degree or respect wherethere is a setting aside of divine will the result is sin,sin being a perversion of that which is right.Marriage is set out in the Bible as an honorable andpure relationship when Hebrews 13:4 says, "Marriageis honorable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge." Deviation from this premise reflects upon the honorattendant in the design and purpose as well as uponHim who instituted it. The result will be punishment,the judgment of God.

The relation of woman to the marriage relationshipis that of "help-meet" in the language of Genesis 2:18-24. She is thus presented as the only work of God's hand suitable to this relationship to man. Withcorrectness it may be said, woman was taken out ofman in creation and returned to him in marriage thathe might attain to a completeness which would be otherwise impossible. In purpose marriage is designed for companionship. God seeing that it was not good for the man that he should be alone determined to make him that "help meet." Perpetuation of the raceis embraced in the instructions given to father Adamand mother Eve, "Be fruitful, and multiply and replenish the earth" (Gen. 1:28). Apart from the marriage institution there is no lawful way, no honorable way to perpetuate the race. Children cannotbe brought into the world crowned with the honor ofeternal design and purpose outside the bonds of marriage.

Purity of life completes the overview of the purposeof marriage in the plan of God. Paul sets out this purpose clearly in the statement "Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife,and let every woman have her own husband (1 Cor.7:2). Sexual desire and need on the part of man andwoman is not wrong, God has made provisions forthe gratification of it, the satisfying of the need. However, we need to emphasize that God has confined that activity, the satisfying of that need, sex, to the marriage relationship. Outside marriage such is

sin, adultery, fornication and one who engages in

such without repentance will incur the judgment and

eternal wrath of God. Sex is beautiful, the ultimate

expression of love, need and gratification. Herein

selfishness, in whatever degree it may exist, blends

with unselfishness in the ultimate physical

expression. This is God's wedding gift and must be

revered and respected within the framework of God's

choosing.

Marriage is consummated when there is: (1)Purpose. "For this cause shall a man leave father andmother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twainshall be one flesh" (Mt. 19:5). The key here is the firmresolve to leave and cleave. (2) Ceremony. A conforming to the social, cultural and legalrequirements of the time and place must be reckonedwith (Rom. 13). (3) The becoming of one flesh (Mt.19:5) includes the sexual union but is not limited norconfined to this. Herein is a union of heart, mindand body which is recognized by God and man resulting in a blending of will, emotions and understanding under the canopy of love. "Wherefore they are no more twain but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together let not man putasunder."

The duration of marriage is for life. Herein is abasic consideration which continues to haunt and plague marriages. "Try it to see if you like it" prettywell represents existing attitudes which include theproviso, "if not we can always annul it or get adivorce." The general rule is that there shall not be aputting asunder (Mt. 19:6). The union is to last for the life of the partners, death alone freeing the livingto marry another (Rom. 7:1-3). A single exception tothis general rule is set out by the Lord "except for fornication" (Mt. 19:9). Now that's not nearly it, that's it!

Profundity ought to beget prayerful respect in theselection of a lifetime mate for marriage. The value ofmarrying a Christian ought to be recognized by thewise. Such a choice eliminates a host of problemsthough none would say it eliminates all. However,such a selection at least provides a basis for resolvingproblems. It is a rare thing indeed where faith andspirituality increases when Christians do not marry Christians. Marriage must be seen in divine perspective, a relationship so profound, fulfillingand time spanning that God selected it to illustrateChrist and the church (Eph. 5:22-33). Only here is itsvalue, beauty and fullness cherished and realized, andthe sanctity embracing it brought within grasp of appreciation.

ENCOURAGING YOUNG PREACHERS

J. M. McCaleb preached the gospel in Japan forforty-two years beginning in 1892 when he finishedhis studies in the College of the Bible at Lexington, Ky. In 1910 he made an extensive tour of the UnitedStates in the interest of "missions." New Orleans was on his itinerary and, while in that city, he went outto the famous Tulane University. One of the highpoints of the campus visit was his admittance to thedissecting chamber of the medical college. There he saw future doctors learning their profession by working on cadavers.

Relating this experience, he said: "We walkedalong from one end of the room to the other andwatched students at work, and the teachers standing by explaining the organs of the body. If some of them do not learn to display more skill when theycome to operate on the living, I would prefer not tobe a victim." (Gospel Advocate, April 14, 1910.)

Brother McCaleb apparently thought the making ofdoctors is somewhat like the old saying about making sausage. The product is better appreciated if one doesn't observe the manufacture.

Brethren sometimes feel that way about the making of preachers. They prefer them already

canned and labeled. They want no part in the

production, not even as spectators. However, unlike

the preparation of doctors or sausage, this work

cannot be successfully done behind closed doors. The

whole process unfolds before our eyes. Certainly

many find it unpleasant to hear a young preacher's

halting and often stumbling efforts to deliver a

sermon as he "practices on the brethren." And it

isn't always easy to patiently suffer the over-supply

of self-confidence some young Timothy’s seem to

have. (Rest assured that this trait will get a proper

adjustment in the school of hard knocks most

preachers begin to experience very early in their

career.)

Everyone no doubt has heard the story of how thenoble Tolbert Fanning was advised to go back toplowing after he made his first attempts to preach.Some of those who made this recommendation lived to hear Fanning hold an audience spellbound for threehours. It helps to remember this when you are enduring some earnest young brother's painful "operation on the living" (or spiritually dead, as thecase may be). The skill will come in time and, as amother who gives birth to a child, the temporarydiscomfort in helping to bring forth a "man of God"will be swallowed up in overflowing joy for the goodhe accomplishes in the service of Christ.

Moses E. Lard's counsel to his preaching brethrenin regard to encouraging young preachers is worthyof wider application. He concluded his remarks bysaying: "Then lay your hand gently on that youngbrother whose devoted, anxious heart prompts him topreach. Again, I say, criticize him gently. If Godstooped to make him, he may not be worthless. Anencouraging word will cost you nothing. Risk a few,then, on that young man. You may one day be gladyou did it." (Lard's Quarterly, Sept. 1836.)

The very least we can do, surely, is to give theyoung preacher a patient hearing.

STEVE POLKS, Orlando, Florida — In February, 1979, the LakeCecile congregation of Kissimmee, Florida marked its third year of existence. Presently, the church meets at a rented facility and isanxious to move forward with the Lord's work in this extremelyfertile community! 10 minutes from Walt Disney World). There isa desire to locate a full-time evangelist who could obtain 70-75%external support. The Holden Heights congregation in Orlando iscurrently assisting in the work here and others have expressed aninterest to do so. The brethren are optimistic that the congregation could become self-supporting within a relativelyshort period providing a full-time program of work could be established. If interested, please contact Paul Willis (305) 846-4125 or myself (305)293-6649.JAMES L. YOPP, 1433 N.E. 16 th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601 — I am collecting materials on the life of brother ByronConley and would appreciate any help you might give. Any readers of this paper who know of events connected with brother Conley's life that would be useful for inclusion in a biography areasked to help. I am hoping the collection of materials will also be useful in a record of a part of the history of the church in Florida and south Georgia.

(Editor's note: Brother Yopp is performing a grand service withthis project. No man has worked longer or harder to spread the gospel in Florida and south Georgia than Byron Conley. Hepreached in groves, tents, rented buildings, often without sufficient support to care for a large family. Every gospelpreacher who has labored in that area is indebted to brother Conleyfor his sacrificial labors.)

GILES M. PAINTER, Albany, Georgia — The Doughertychurch of Christ had its beginning only 17 months ago. It is madeup basically of newcomers to Albany, few in number, strong inspirit. We are laboring zealously to have a New Testament churchin this hard area and liberal stronghold. Do you have relatives orfriends in this city we could contact for you? We have, and continue to do a lot of door to door work, and as a result of this,we have a few weekly home Bible studies going. We are lookingforward to March 25 at which time Fred Liggin will be with us fora two week's meeting and another extensive door to door effort.Pray for us. When traveling in our area stop and worship with us.If traveling on U.S. 19 expressway, exit on Clark, turn right on Maple St.. We are one mile on the left.

NEW CONGREGATION — NEW MARTINSVILLE, WEST VIRGINIA

PAUL ROCKWELL, 200 N. First Ave., Paden City, WV26169 — We would like to make known to our brethren that a new congregation has been established in the city of New Martinsville,West Virginia. This church is meeting in the Virginia Center onVirginia Street, the old building in which the Catholic Church once held services. We began meeting on January 7, 1979. Therewere 26 at this service, 19 at the evening service and 25 at theWednesday evening service. Our contribution was $220.75.

Presently there are fourteen members. Twelve of this numberwere members of the Paden City church who live in New Martinsville. They were in full fellowship with the church at Paden City. We have felt for sometime that this effort should be madeand have just been waiting for the opportune time. The church atPaden City extended to us their blessing in this work. The writeris laboring with the new congregation as a preacher of the gospel.We have a desire to be simply a New Testament church, doingthose things authorized by Christ and allowing His word to direct us in name, worship, work, organization, discipline and the liveswe lead. Our services are on Sunday morning with Bible study at9:45, worship at 10:30 and again in the evening at 6:30. We meetWednesday nights at 7:30. If anyone knows of those in this areawho are interested in allowing Christ to direct the affairs of hischurch in every area, we invite you to tell them of us. Those whomay be traveling and looking for a place to worship are invited toworship with us. Contact may also be made with Terry Tallman,202 Paducah Dr., New Martinsville, WV 26155.

NEW CONGREGATION — FOLSOM, CALIFORNIA BILL MOSELEY, 177 Briarcliff D., Folsom, CA 95630 — Two years ago, a congregation was begun in Folsom, California. Northern California is lacking in faithful churches as compared tothe southern part of the state, so as a result of the determinedefforts of a few brethren, this relatively new work is thriving.Folsom is located in eastern Sacramento County, about 20 mileseast of the capitol of Sacramento. It lies in the corridor betweenthe Sacramento Valley and the Sierra resort areas, and so is experiencing good growth. The area is beautiful, being surroundedby rolling hills. The American River runs through the town afterforming Folsom Lake.

The church here already has about 55 members and is presentlyinvolved in a building program which we hope to complete sometime this Spring. Presently we meet in the R.G. Smith (Lion's Club) building on Sunday and in the Community Centeron Thursday evenings. Classes presently are conducted for members 3 nights a week, with the other 2 nights being taken forstudy with non-members. Prospects for future growth areexcellent. The brethren here invited my wife and me to movehere and work with them. So, after 7 and 1/2 years in Tucson,Arizona (interrupted by 2 1/2 years with the good Mt. View churchin San Bernardino) we accepted the invitation (and the challenge)and arrived last summer. We invite any who are thinking ofmoving into the Sacramento area to contact us. Or, if youknow of anybody you would like to be contacted, please let usknow and we will take care of it. Our building is located at 800Reading St., Folsom, CA 95639. I may be contacted at 985-7894.FERRELL JENKINS, Florida College, Temple Terrace, FL33617 — After over ten years of preaching for the 2510 LakelandHills Blvd. church, Lakeland, Florida, I have informed them that I will be leaving them sometime this year. We are pleased to announce that Jady Copeland of Fayetteville, Arkansas will beginwork here June 1. We have enjoyed a fruitful work at Lakelandand thank the Lord for the progress that has been made. I will continue teaching Bible at Florida College, holding some meetings,and conducting my tours. For 1979 I have a BIBLE LANDSTOUR planned for May 7-28, and a EUROPEAN HIGHLIGHTSTOUR planned for July 30-August 17. These tours are plannedwith Christians in mind. We can send brochures to any who wouldlike them.

NEW CONGREGATION — MISSOULA, MONTANADON PARTAIN, 1334 Phillips, Missoula, MT 59801 — A church of our Lord, determined to adhere to the authority ofthe Scriptures, has just begun meeting in Missoula, Montana. This church came into existence in mid-1976, but was meeting primarily in Evaro (about 20 miles NW of Missoula). Mywife, Marilynn, our three small boys, and I moved from our native Texas to Missoula in January, 1977 in order to begin working with this small church then consisting of five young adults. Sincethen, four more adults have obeyed the gospel and one man hasbeen restored — thus "joining our ranks." However, we have had to withdraw from one member, another has moved, and a couple (who have been very strong in the faith) will be moving in afew months.

The work is very slow and often discouraging (especially sincethere are so few of us). However, in this city of 56,000, I am confident there are still many souls that can be reached. It is justgoing to take time. We welcome and encourage strong, well grounded Christians (especially families) to consider moving uphere to help us out. You would be a great encouragement to us,plus increasing our effectiveness in reaching the lost (small churches are often looked upon with suspicion). As for theclimate, it is much less severe than that in eastern Montana (eastof the Divide). January is the coldest with temperatures ranging from -20° to 20° F. Also, you vacationers keep us in mind. We are right on Interstate 90 and on the route to the magnificentGlacier National Park.

FREE TEACHER RECRUITING POSTERS

BOB WEST, 6121 Hudson St., Orlando, FL 32808 — "EveryChristian should be a Gospel Teacher" is the title of a new fullcolor poster offered by Bob West Publications, Inc. The poster isa photo of a Bible on a sack of seed, a watering can, and a "HelpWanted" sign. The photo makes a strong appeal for workers to plant the seed (the Word of God), and to water it so that God can provide the increase. It is 15X21" large and may be used generously on church bulletin boards to encourage greater faithfulness and service among the membership.

The posters could easily sell for $3 each, but in order to encourage greater distribution and more opportunities to do goodwe will send yours free (rolled and protected inside a sturdymailing tube) if you will send $1 to cover postage and handling.Add just 25« for each additional copy of the poster (mailed withthe first one). Ask for as many as you can use. And use as many as you can. Let's get every Christian involved in the Great Commission. (Editor's Note: Bob West is one of the most talented men among us. He is editor and publisher of GOSPEL TEACHER, which appears six times each year. It is a first-ratepublication which would fill a need with every Bible teacher.Every issue is full of useful articles and suggestions for moreeffective teaching. Bob West stays on top of the latest information about visual aids, supplies for more effective bulletinwork and practical ideas for getting the message across. The annual subscription rate is $7. We think teachers are missing some valuable help by not reading this fine publication).HERB BRASWELL, 418 E. King St., Shippensburg, PA 17257

— After laboring with the Lord's people in southwestern Virginia(Richlands 5 years and Wise, Va. on appointments in 1978), Ihave now moved with my family to work in Shippensburg, PA.The church here is able to provide half of my support and alsoprovides a nice house for us. A church in Beckley, West Virginiasends $100 a month, but I am in need of an additional $400 amonth. Who can help us with this? The church here is sound inthe faith and at peace. There seems to be a mind to work. Welook forward to a good work with these brethren. If any readersknow of people in this area we should contact, please drop us aline. MEL ROSE, 8221 Somers Dr., Anaheim, CA 92804 — We spentour first year in the Spanish work with the church at WestAnaheim, working with a small group of Spanish speaking brethren meeting there. By the time the year ended, we were endeavoring to form these brethren into an independent, localSpanish speaking church. As it turned out, some of them decided they wanted to remain in the West Anaheim congregation. Theothers, along with various other Spanish speaking membersknown to us from other churches, recognized the urgent need of aSpanish speaking congregation. Consequently, a new work was immediately formed and began meeting in my home, on March 24.It was not long until we had outgrown my living room, and sobegan looking for another place to meet. The church in Fullertonresponded to our need and we began using their building in May.We now have 20 members and when they are all present, alongwith their children, our attendance reaches into the 40's and 50's.

PREACHERS NEEDED UMATILLA, FLORIDA — The church here is looking for a full-time gospel preacher. Average attendance is about 75. We can

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furnish a nice, two-bedroom block house just a few blocks fromSalem, Indiana, I plan to move when school is out, or could movethe meeting house Some outside support will probably be needed.anytime, if necessary. I am married, 50 years old, and have beenCall (904) 669-2247 or (904) 669-4100, or write to the church atpreaching for 32 years. We have four children, one of which is still

P.O. Box 799, 32784 Supply references.at home. I would be pleased to hear from any interested WISE, VIRGINIA — Anyone looking for a real challenge should conservative congregation. consider the work at Wise, Virginia. Most of support would haveto be raised elsewhere but the opportunities are good in this areafor growth. Those interested should contact Larry Arnold, 310 IN THE NEWS THIS MONTH Poplar St., Norton, VA Phone (703) 679-2092.BAPTISMS 327

EXPERIENCED PREACHER AVAILABLE

J.M. KENNEDY, Box 332, Rt 5, Salem, Indiana, 47167 -RESTORATIONS 146 After more than 3 and 1/2 years with the church in Smedley, near (Taken from bulletins and papers received by the editor)