JESUS AS A NEIGHBOR

Think of the neighbors you have had. You probably had some good ones and some not so good. I rememberone of our neighbors when I was a young boy who wasalways cursing his wife at the top of his lungs. And then there were the kids who lived down the street whom we found carrying off some of my toys. But we have alsohad a lot of good neighbors. A retired gentlemen whowas always ready to sit and listen to a young boy wassuch a neighbor. Or there was the elderly man whotaught the two young newly-weds how to garden.

Think what it would be like to have Jesus as a neighbor. He certainly would not be vulgar, or in any way guilty of some evil or harm against you. One could not find a more dependable or kind neighbor.

But as one thinks more about this idea it may be thathe would not want Jesus for a neighbor. What would itbe like to have Jesus living next door? What kind ofneighbor would He be?

A Consulted Neighbor

There certainly would be a steady stream of peoplecoming to Jesus. Sick people would be coming to Himfor healing like the two blind men (Mt. 9:27-31) or thecenturion seeking a cure for his servant (Mt. 8:5-7).Multitudes would be coming to receive food from Him(Jno. 6:24-26). There would be people coming all hoursof the night to talk with Him (Jno. 3:1-2). Little childrenwould be coming to Him (Mk. 10:13-16).

Such a flow of traffic would surely destroy the neighborhood. There would be no peace and quiet. And you would never be able to find a parking place. Then there'sthe kids. They would surely be running through yourflower garden. Maybe having Jesus as a neighbor wouldnot be so good an idea.

A Controversial Neighbor

Let's face it, wherever Jesus went He was alwaysstirring up trouble. He was constantly in a dispute withthe Pharisees (Mk. 8:11). His own home town of Nazareth rejected Him not once, but twice (Lk. 4:28-30; Mt. 13:53-58). Even His own family criticized Him (Jno.7:3-5). Some of His people said, "He is out of His mind"(Mk. 3:21). There were times when He didn't alwayskeep the best company in the world (Lk. 7:37-38). Hewas always stirring people up over different things inHis teaching. His disciples said He offended the Pharisees over what He said about their traditions (Mt.15:12). His own disciples didn't seem to react very favorably with what He said about divorce and remarriage (Mt. 19:8-10).

If Jesus moved into your neighborhood, you can besure that things would soon be stirred up. There would probably be some people in the neighborhood going around wanting folks to sign a petition to force Jesus tomove. Then what would you do? You would be forced tomake a decision as to whose side you would take. Maybeit would be better not to have Jesus as our neighbor.

A Church-Minded Neighbor

Have you ever had a neighbor that had a one trackmind? Some folks are sports-minded, that is, they eat,sleep, and talk sports. It's all they seem to have on their mind. Others might be career-minded or devoted to some hobby. All some folks want to talk about is theirillnesses.

Surely you know what Jesus would be talking aboutall the time. He would always want to be telling you little stories that had spiritual lessons in them, like thekingdom parables (Mt. 13). He would even take a normally physical subject and turn it into something spiritual, like He did with the Samaritan woman when He turned the conversation from a drink of water to "a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life"(Jno. 4:7-14). So anything you tried to talk to Jesusabout would probably end up on some spiritual matter.

There's just so much that one can take. Right? A

Condemning Neighbor

Jesus never hesitated to show the sinner his sin. He warned the cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum (Mt. 11:20-24). He certainly didn't hold back from telling the Pharisees and lawyers their problems (Lk.11:37-52). With Jesus, it was always repent or perish(Lk. 13:3).

Mark it well that you would not be able to engage inany sin and get away with it, if you had Jesus living next door. If you were not at an assembly of the church, He would be over knocking on your door. You couldn't even have a good fight with your wife for fear that He might overhear. And sunbathing in the back yardwould definitely be out.

Just think of all the changes you would have to makeif Jesus lived next door. Would it be worth it?

A Commanding Neighbor

Have you ever had a neighbor who was always askingsomething of you? Some are always wanting to borrowsomething. Others ask you to do this or that.

Jesus would be demanding neighbor. He might askyou to watch and pray with Him some evening (Mt.26:38-41). Or He might want you to become a fisher ofmen (Mk. 1:16-17). Just to be one of His disciples ispretty demanding (Lk. 14:26-33). And there He wouldbe always ready to remind you of what you should bedoing for Him.

Conclusion

Have we become so complacent and comfortable inour communities that for Jesus to move in would cause a tremendous uproar? Would you really want Jesus as a neighbor?

While He may not be our neighbor, let's not forgetthat He watches us every day that we live. He knows usbetter than our neighbor does!

CATCHING UP

No, I am not going to tell you about my operation. Itdid sideline me for awhile though I am making progressand able to take on some of my work. Thanks are inorder to Donnie V. Rader for helping to get the May issue of the paper ready for the printer. There have been many phone calls and cards and notes expressing loveand concern, all of which were deeply appreciated, especially the prayers. I am knee deep in work which needsattention but which has had to wait. I am behind on correspondence and ask for the understanding of allconcerned. But I have learned that the world will go onturning whether I do or not. My classes will be taughtand sermons I cannot preach will be preached by others.

I have had to take time every day to walk and regainstrength in my back and legs. I walk about a mile eachtime and some days I have walked better than threemiles. That has given me time to admire the breathtaking beauty of a Kentucky spring. I did not realize how many white, pink and red dogwoods were in my neighbors yards and around the edges of the woods inHilbrook Farms, the subdivision where we live in Bullitt County, a few miles south of Louisville. I have listened to the birds sing, watched the grass get greenerevery day, stopped to admire the little brook which runsin the woods behind our house and which merges with alarger stream which winds its way through the subdivision and ultimately empties into the Salt River. Azaleashave come to full bloom before my very eyes. Just afterbreakfast each day there is a stillness in the spring air.Except for an occasional airplane, or the distant rumbleof a freight train, there is only the refreshing quietnessof the morning air. That is good for a man whose liferevolves around the calendar and the clock; a man wholives with deadlines — classes to teach, meetings tohold, printers deadlines to meet, urgent letters to answer and, well, you know the story. That all sounds soimportant. But it is good for a man to be made to realize,if he doesn't know already, that such things CAN wait.

It has been a good time to remember such statementsas, "Stand in awe, and sin not; commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah" (Psa. 4:4).Again, "Be still, and know that I am God; I will beexalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in theearth" (Psa. 46:10). Further, my spirit has been renewedin daily beholding the needlepoint of God's own tapestry so vividly stitched upon the landscape of a glorious

Kentucky spring, and I have reflected upon the truth

that "even Solomon, in all his glory, was not arrayed

like one of these" (Mt. 6:29).

All this has given time to reflect on the following

words which were cross-stitched by a very special lady

and which are framed and hang on the wall at the top of

the stairs.

"God grant me the serenity

To accept the things I cannot change;

Courage to change the things I can

And wisdom to know the difference."

* * * * * * * * *

HEROES

It occurs to me that the present generation has ashortage of worthy heroes. The greatest heroes of allhave been faithful servants of God who, in whateverstage of the world, acted and reacted upon the stage ofhuman history with the courage of conviction, regardless of the consequences. The Bible is full of them. Timewould fail to speak of Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses,Jeremiah, Daniel, Esther, Nehemiah, not to mention the apostles of our Lord, and our Lord himself. Thenthere are the lesser mentioned heroes who stood in the gap at critical times. Their heroism far exceeded that ofthose whose claim to fame is how fast they can run, howfar they can throw a ball, or how many records theyhave sold. Many heroes of such vintage from my own youthful days have long been forgotten by the presentgeneration. Mention one of them now and your children (and certainly your grandchildren) will say "Who wasthat?"

It occurs to me that my generation constitutes a linkto a time and to special people who were truly heroes offaith. At various intervals, either in this column, or inmy EDITORIAL LEFT-OVERS, I plan to recall a few such people and events which I hope will be of interestto our readers, "lest we forget."

For starters, I remember Franklin T. Puckett. He was a man of imposing stature. There was a dignity about his carriage and a confidence in his air that made you know you were in the presence of one who not only walked with God, but who knew whereof he spoke. Ihave seen him quote lengthy passages from the word ofGod with exactness and such expression as to fasten the words in your heart. Much of his preaching wasexpository. He knew the text, the immediate contextand the larger context of scriptural truth touching thatsubject. His preaching was compellingly logical and yetimpassioned. He obviously believed what he preached.Sometimes he preached a long time, by today's standards, but those who heard him understood that he had something to say and that he said it well, and came away rewarded for the time spent at the feet of thisgiant of the faith.

Yet, with all his dignity (he looked like a Supreme Court justice ought to look), he had time to help struggling young preachers. I lived at Newbern, Tennesseeduring the time he preached at the old Market Streetchurch in Dyersburg, Tennessee (that is now Lake Road). On various occasions I needed help with a difficult passage, or in resolving an argument on the ragingissues of that time, and always knew he would help me.He would say, "Come on down and bring your Bible andwe'll get off upstairs and work on it." It was alwaysmore than worth the eight mile trip. "Upstairs" he had aroom with a few books and a couple of rocking chairs.What a school room that was. He would listen to what I had to say, long enough to see what the problem wasand then he would start methodically examining thematter. Sometimes it took two hours, and sometimes ittook nearly all day. If so, his good wife (a true heroine inher own right) would interrupt us for lunch and then we would go back to it. Precious hours they were.

But there was another side to him that some never saw. He loved to play the fiddle and was quite good atsome of the old Arkansas hoe-down pieces. Once, theincongruity of the situation struck me. Here was a man dressed in a dark suit and tie, with a sparkling shoeshine, with distinguished gray hair and noble features,patting that big foot and sawing off the "ArkansasTraveler." He was as meticulous in his fiddling as in hispreaching. He wanted it to be the best he could make it.

But I remember him best as the moderator of the "Open Forum" at the Florida College lectures in thecritical years of the early 1950's when it seemed thekingdom was on fire and a dreadful, wrenching divisionwas in the air as the controversy over church support ofhuman institutions was heating up across the land.Brethren from both sides (and many who were undecided) attended those programs and many of thespeeches confronted the issues involved. The "OpenForum" became an open battlefield every day. Hewould arise with great poise and dignity, remind allpresent of the seriousness of the matters at hand, and appeal for wisdom and respect. Then he would firmly remind all that he intended to keep that session undercontrol. I can still hear him saying "I will not hesitate toask anyone of you to take your seat, if you get out of lineand do not speak and act as a Christian should." He saidit like he meant it and he enforced what he said when occasion required. I thought then, "There stands a man." I still think so. We could use a few like that now. Oh yes, I remember Franklin T. Puckett. He is one of my heroes.

ACOUSTICS—THE SILENT KILLER

"There is a sore evil which I have seen under the sun,namely... ", acoustic tile in the ceilings of church buildings occupied by churches of Christ. This silent killerhas done more to deaden or destroy good congregational singing than most brethren realize. I hopeSolomon won't mind my using a variation of a popularphrase found in Ecclesiastes (5:13, 16), if I can succeedin getting the attention of brethren who are in the process of buying, building, or remodeling a church building.

The Lord knew what He wanted to accomplish byincluding the singing of "psalms and hymns and spiritual songs" in the worship of the church (Eph. 5:19; Col.3:16). There are other factors which influence the quality of singing, such as carpeted floors, upholsteredpews, and a general apathy on the part of some brethren toward singing. God can hear a silent prayer or song,but if we are going to "teach and admonish one another," then we need the best possible environment inwhich to do it.

My conclusions are based on experiences with church buildings and congregational singing over a forty-yearperiod. I have been personally involved in building programs with congregations where I have preached, aswell as visiting in scores of other buildings in congregations in gospel meetings. 1 have led the singing, conducted a few schools in the rudiments of music, and have supervised the construction of several commercial buildings including school and church buildings, restaurants and hospitals. When I hear brethren talkingabout the installation of "acoustic tile" to improve thesinging, I almost relegate that term to the realm ofprofanity.

I have pleaded with brethren on a number of occasions not to use any more sound-deadening materialsthan absolutely necessary. Even the clothing worn bypeople tends to deaden sound in an auditorium, but wecan't do much about that factor. The term "acoustic" has different meanings to different people. Brethren are generally swayed by an architect or a contractor who tells them that a certain design will "help the acoustics." In practical application, this generally means itwill deaden sound. Yes, you can install elaborate publicaddress systems which will help the speaker or a choir,but churches of Christ generally don't have the latter(at least the ones where I preach). The congregation

Page 5

does not have a microphone, and the transition from a building with plastered or paneled walls and ceilings,bare floors and pews to a sound-deadened environmentcan be frustrating.

In new construction or remodeling, there are firecodes to be considered but there are generally alternatives which can be chosen. Most architects are either ignorant or unconcerned about the part congregationalsinging plays in churches of Christ. As a result, I haveknown brethren to end up lowering a ceiling six feet andusing different materials (at considerable expense), after letting an architect convince them that the roof oftheir building needed to be as tall as the Greek Orthodox building next door. I helped one congregation gettheir building plans approved by a city commission, butstrongly suggested that they eliminate the acoustic tilefrom the ceiling plans. They listened to the architect.Later, when the singing was so adversely affected thatsomething had to be done, they tried to fill all thoselittle holes in the tile with paint. This helped some, butthey finally tore off all the ceiling tile (what a mess—Ireturned for a meeting while this project was in progress), and plastered the entire ceiling.

Good singing is essential to the well-being of preachers, visitors, and all worshipers alike. Let usmake it the best that we can.

HUSBANDS, WIVES, AND

OCCUPATIONAL PLANNING

THE DIVINE MESSAGE: "THAT THEY

(aged women) MAY TRAIN THE YOUNG

WOMEN TO LOVE THEIR HUSBANDS, TO

LOVE THEIR CHILDREN, TO BE SOBER

MINDED, CHASTE, WORKERS AT HOME,

KIND, BEING IN SUBJECTION TO THEIR

OWN HUSBANDS, THAT THE WORD OF GOD

BE NOT BLASPHEMED" (TITUS 2:4-5).

I was recently asked to speak to a young women'sorganization on the subject of "Occupational Planningfor Wives who are Christians." They asked me to address the issues involved in a wife's relationship whenshe seeks a career outside the home. I would like to share with you my comments to that group of conscientious young college women who have grown up with allthe pressures imposed by American society in the1970's and 80's.

General Principles

In all facets of life wherein we engage our interests,Christians accept principles which overrule other concerns. Several come to mind immediately when thinkingabout our topic:

A. Spiritual responsibilities take precedence overpersonal desires and self-interests (Phil. 3:7-16).

B. Loving things more than values is inconsistentwith Christianity (1 John 2:15).

C. The love of money is a root of evil (1 Tim. 6:6-11).

D. Christians must learn to be content with those aspects of life which cannot be changed without compromising faith and spiritual interests (Phil. 4:11).

E. All the needs of family and loved ones must bemet, including more than simply the provision ofthings.

Specific Roles of Husbands and Wives Dictated By Lord

In spite of affirmations made by leaders of modernwomen's movements, husbands are given primary responsibility for family financial provision (Gen. 3:19; 2Thes. 3:6-12; 1 Tim. 5:8; 1 Thes. 4:9-12). On the otherhand, wives are given primary responsibility for keeping the home. Women are not required to marry andhave children to be Christians. If one does marry andhave children, however, she must accept her proper rolein the family as defined by God. Homemaking IS a career. The following Scriptures evidence God's attitude toward it:

A. "That they may train the young women to lovetheir husbands, to love their children, to be sober-minded, chaste, workers at home, kind, being in subjection to their own husbands, that the word of God be notblasphemed" (Titus 2:4-5).

The Greek word translated "workers at home" is oikourgous (from oikos, house, home; and ouros, a keeper or worker... deprived from ergon, to work). Theidea relates to working for the home, taking care of thehome, engaging in domestic enterprise. The wife's primary realm of operation is the household. There is a connection made by Paul in this passage between theway the wife responds to God's instructions regardingher role in the family and how others speak of the wordof God.

B. "I desire therefore that the younger widowsmarry, bear children, rule the household, give no occasion to the adversary for reviling" (1 Tim. 5:14).

The Greek word translated "rule the household" is oikodespoteo. It means "to guide the house," or "to oversee the household." Again, there is a connection made between the woman's acceptance of her God-ordained role in the family and how others react to theword of God.

C. "But she shall be saved through her childbearing,if they continue in faith and love and sanctification withsobriety" (1 Tim. 2:15).

"Childbearing" is from teknogonia, and implies theduties of motherhood. This word is also used in 1 Timothy 5:14. There is no spiritual benefit to being able toconsummate a sexual union out of which a child is conceived. On the other hand, fulfilling the role of motherhood is seen by God as important to the wife's spiritualwell-being. That, of course, is viewed in light of herfaithfulness to God in all things.

Some Attitudes and Actions Which Must Be Addressed

Regardless of our particular social notions, we mustcome to grips with the clear affirmations of these versesif we are to serve God. We cannot ignore them eithertheoretically or practically. Some questions must beanswered:

A. How much pressure are we putting on youngwomen to train for out-of-home professional careers andwhy are we emphasizing that they must prepare to make a living"?

There may be some legitimate reasons for parents ofyoung women, or for the women themselves to want tobe prepared to take care of themselves. They may notmarry. They may be widowed. God forbid, they may marry one who will not hold their marriage sacred andfind themselves divorced.

There are also, however, some very illegitimate excuses for pursuing careers. If the motive is an overwhelming need to have things, or if the motive is tosatisfy certain psychological needs while wanting to bemarried and have children at the same time, some realsoul-searching and Biblical study must take place. Or if the desire is to prove oneself equal to men and able to doanything and go anywhere others can go, the God-ordained role of the wife must be understood and respected.

B. How are young men dealing with the question ofwhen to marry? How are they figuring on the ability of the mate to support the family with substantial financial compensation from a profession"! Young men, position yourselves to support your wives before you takethem as wives.

C. How are married women with children who see a need for temporary financial help seeking to satisfythose needs? Is it absolutely necessary to go outside the home? Should not babysitting, typing, bookkeeping,sewing, cooking (cakebaking, etc.), crafts for sale, pianolessons, etc., be considered when possible so that one's"keeping the home" and "childbearing" will not be compromised?

D. Can we fully deal with the needs of our childrenwhen we work away from the home? They have psychological needs. When they are sick, can we care for them?When they have school activities which call for thepresence of Mom, are we able to be there? They havespiritual needs. You want them to learn your values, notthose of others who sit with them. You want them to sense your care and love. You want them to feel close toyou. They have practical needs. Do they get their workdone when not motivated by a parent who is there? Dothey learn to take care of their rooms, their lives, theirrelationships with friends, etc., etc.

E. What is the impact on the husband? The male sense of worth is a delicate thing. Whether that shouldbe or not, it is! The husband whose wife is away to workoften questions his ability to support his own family.He is sensitive to the fact that he and his wife are goingdifferent directions. He feels deeply the problem of herinability to fully provide his and the children's wishes and the needs of the home. He may even be affected bythe relation of her work to his. Women sometimes arguethat he ought not to be as he is. If that is true, theorydoes not cut much ice in the divorce court when he no longer sees his wife as a wife.

Think about what it all means to you. Is the extramoney work it all? I probably won't be your idea of theperfect, understanding male when I call your attention to these things, but please do not ignore them... FORYOUR OWN SAKES!

CHARGING THE RICH

As man was leaving worship services he met an old acquaintance whom he had not seen in several years. Intheir brief conversation he said to his acquaintance, "Iunderstand that you are in great danger." It was saidseriously and was heard with much surprise. The friendaddressed was not aware of any danger and eagerlyinquired what was meant. The answer was, "I have beeninformed that you are getting rich."No man can read the Bible and not be impressed bythe number of scriptures that warn of the danger ofriches. The young preacher was commanded "Charge them that are rich in this present world, that they be nothigh-minded nor have their hopes set on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who giveth us richlyall things to enjoy; that they do good, that they berich in good works, that they be ready to distribute,willing to communicate; laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come,that they may lay hold on the life which is life indeed" (1 Tim. 6:17-19).

General Admonitions

The negative charges of this passage are twofold: (1)Be Not Highminded That means don't be snobbish or smug. Don't value yourself because of your wealth. Thefact that this charge is given implies that it is often atendency of the rich to "think of themselves more highly than they ought to think." (2) Nor Have Their Hopes Set On The Uncertainty Of Riches. This, likewise, is recognized as a tendency or the Holy Spiritwould not have mentioned it. Because there are so manythings money CAN do, there is the danger of beinglulled into thinking there is nothing it CANNOT do. Yet in a moment's time a sudden change in our economicsystem could knock the props from under all of us. The worst hurt would be the rich. Remember the stock market crash when many committed suicide? However, hewho is trusting in riches when the Lord returns will behurt even more. Jesus said, "It is easier for a camel to gothrough a needle's eye, than for a rich man to enter intothe kingdom of heaven" (Mt. 19:24). While we might getbogged down in a hassle as to what the "needle" refers,there is one obvious truth in Jesus' teaching that must be admitted by all — it will be hard for the rich to be saved!

The positive charges are: (1) Trusting God; (2)Do good; (3) Be rich in good works; (4) Ready to distribute; and (5)

Willing to communicate. In a nutshell, these five positive charges are saying: "Without partiality, be ready atall times (not just seasonally) to help everyone becauseof your faith in God rather than possessions. You will belaying a good foundation to help you reach eternal life —you'll need it!"

While the covetous nature of many who are rich isoften deplored, let us not forget that one need not berich to be guilty of covetousness. The same chapterwarns those who have a desire to be rich. "But they that are minded to be rich fall into a temptation and a snareand many foolish and hurtful lusts, such as drown menin destruction and perdition. For the love of money is aroot of all kinds of evil; which some reaching after havebeen led astray from the faith, and have pierced themselves through with many sorrows" (1 Tim. 6:9, 10).Those who are not rich but "have a mind to be" are often self-defeated. Hoping to better themselves materially,they frequently succeed in doing the opposite spiritually.

Occasionally one wonders how the love of money can be a root of all evils (footnote, ASV). Stop and think fora moment and it will dawn on you. There is hardly a sin in that great "category of sins" that cannot be connected with money. Some of the "foolish and hurtfullusts" in which the love of money can play a part are:adultery, fornication, lasciviousness, homosexuality,drunkenness, theft, jealousy, strife, revellings, idolatry,gambling, extortion, etc. Sin is expensive in more waysthan one. Many have reached after riches and fallen from the faith.

Many of us are too concerned about things, Things,THINGS! "A man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the THINGS which he possesseth ...."

EARL FLY ASLEEP IN JESUS

Earl Fly, age 63, died last Sunday morning in the

Jackson-Madison County General Hospital. He had ex

perienced health problems for a number of years, and

was only recently recovering from another stroke.

Brother Fly obeyed the gospel nearly forty years ago,and from that time lived a devoted and faithful life as a Christian. Only God knows the influence for good heexerted through his preaching and writing. Although he had been physically unable to engage in active workduring the last several years, he continued to do what hecould to advance the cause that he loved. He was especially encouraging to young men who were devotingtheir lives to preaching the gospel. He had given awaynearly his entire library to these young preachers during the last three years. It was always a pleasure for meto see Brother Fly in the audience when I preached. Iknew that he would always have a word of encouragement or appreciation for the work I was doing. He was a faithful member of the church here, and he will bemissed very much. We mourn his passing, not becauseof lack of hope, but because of the broken relationship inthis life. We extend our deepest sympathy to sister Fly,Ann, Ron and other family members.

Gary Kerr, Jackson, Tennessee (Editor's note: It was my privilege to know Earl Fly since 1957 when he preached at Valley Station, Kentucky while the church there experienced great growth.Nearly every bulletin carried news of one or more obeying the gospel. We were also in Orlando, Florida at thesame time. He preached at Holden Heights and Iworked at Pine Hills. He moderated for me in a debate with a preacher of the Church of God named Lodge. Wewere often together over the years in gospel work and enjoyed playing music together on many occasions. He will be missed.)

* * * * * * * * * *JAMES A. RODGERS AT REST

James A. Rodgers (age 56) departed this life, March22, 1987, following complications from a heart transplant. He was a most faithful preacher of the gospel forover thirty years in central and southern parts of Texas.His struggle to remain on this earth awhile longer wasinspirational to all who were close to him and his finefamily. He was a devout defender of the cross and lovedby the many who knew him. He was an independent thinker and student of God's word. However, he did not seek to be different for the sake of being controversial.He thoroughly studied a passage and did not put histrust in what someone else had said. He loved to studyand compare the scriptures with the original language.

He was a dear friend who defended the truth and preached the gospel. He was ever ready to help and

advise someone so they might be more fruitful as a child

of God. He served as an elder for the Southern Oaks

congregation in Lake Jackson, Texas for a short time

before his health failed. He also labored with churches

in Brazoria County, Texas for over half of his preaching

life. He was indeed a man in a "straight betwixt two."

He longed to go on, and yet wanted to see his family and

friends grow to serve God better.

When the family received word of the availability of a heart, they rushed to the hospital to be with him. Theyhad some last words together and he said to them "if itworks, that's great, and if it doesn't work, that's greattoo." As he gave the O. K. sign to his family as he wastaken into the operating room, I could only reflect on hiscourage, wit and the peace with which he was facingdeath. His brave and godly wife, Bettye, was ever withhim and always a help to him and the family. They havethree sons, James L., Gary A., and Bryan D., who are allfaithful to the Lord and have married faithful, godly women. Also one daughter, Cathy who is faithful andmarried to a faithful Christian also. He left behind five grandchildren.

The funeral was conducted in Lake Jackson, at the Southern Oaks building. A capacity crowd was onhand to hear the gospel of Christ presented by JesseJenkins with the writer assisting. Albert Jennings,James' best friend and an elder and preacher spoke alsoregarding lessons to be learned from the life of thisgodly man. Congregational singing was led by BillPrimrose, faithful saint and friend. Prayers were led by

W. R. Jones and Chuck Ainsworth. Opportunity wasgiven for any to respond to the message presented, and the service was dismissed. His earthly remains wereburied in Refugio, Texas with graveside services conducted by Terry Summerlin, who reflected upon his roleas a Timothy in James' life.

A husband, father, preacher, fellow saint, and beloved friend has departed this life. But, as stated at the service, "our loss is the Lord's gain." He will be sorelymissed, but we live in hope of seeing him as well as otherfaithful of the ages, when all the saved get to heaven. Idearly loved the man and will miss having him as amember of the congregation. But we believe that hisfamily will carry on with the same kind of strength anddedication, so that the circle will not be broken.

Stan Adams, Lake Jackson, Texas

* * * * * * * * * * WRIGHT RANDOLPH HAS GONE TO HIS REWARD

Wright Randolph was born to Henry Robert and Minnie May Randolph in the Nubia community (TaylorCounty), Texas on April 29, 1902 and departed this lifein Greenville, Texas on February 27, 1987. In June,1924 he was married to Myrtle Huffman of Amarillo,Texas who preceded him in death March 29, 1964. A year later Wright married Ethel Cogdill in CanogaPark, California, a sister to the beloved Roy Cogdill.Wright is survived by his wife, Ethel, a daughter,Jeanine Anthony of Pinole, California; two brothers,Layton of Van Nuys, California and Sidney of Vinita, Oklahoma; two sisters, Opal Bockman and Fay Brittboth of Wichita Falls, Texas; four grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

Wright became a Christian at the age of 16 in Nubia,Texas being baptized by W. A. Schultz. Prior to 1931 hepreached in various places by appointment and began full-time work in Spur, Texas and later preached inSlayton and Floydada, Texas; Clovis and Albuquerque,NM; San Bernardino, Santa Barbara (twice), San Pablo, Montebello and Canoga Park, California;Cincinnati Ohio; Deming, New Mexico; El Paso, Texasand Lake Isabella, California. Bob Bolton says, "In addition, he was often used throughout the nation ingospel meetings, and as a gospel preacher he was forceful yet humble, unique yet not peculiar, profoundyet simple, and was highly loved and respected by hispeers. We might not have always agreed with him, butwe never for one moment doubted his conviction and faith in the divine authenticity of 'the Book'. One of his favorite passages, which was cited at his funeral, wasProverbs 23:23, 'Buy the truth and sell it not.' "

Robert A. Bolton of Richardson, Texas spoke at the funeral which was conducted at the building of theSouthside church, Greenville, Texas on Sunday afternoon, March 1, 1987. Burial was in the Rose Cemeteryin Hobart, Oklahoma.

Again, Bob Bolton writes, "Brother Randolph believed with all his heart that he was ready to pass overinto the presence of the Lord and made it a point toimpress this fact upon all. As I visited with him some 24hours before he died, I said to him as I prepared to leave:'Wright, if we never meet again in this life, I'll see you in heaven.' In his weakened condition, this 84 year old'soldier of the cross' managed a faint smile and softly answered, 'O. K.!' He knew he was dying, yet faced hisdeparture with hope."

I (JWC) personally feel it quite an honor and privilegeto have been asked by Ethel to submit this report, alongwith Bob Bolton, concerning Wright's life and death.Wright was a Christian. He loved the truth and preached it just as he understood it. What more need besaid? He was a good husband, and while I never knewhim while his children were growing up, I am sure justas good a father. He was fortunate in that in his life hechose two of the finest ladies I have known as mates. Both Myrtle and Ethel along with Wright, were ourdear friends, and we spent many happy and I believeprofitable hours in their presence. Many hours on the golf course Wright and I have talked about a number ofthings, but much of the Bible, the church and the Lord.When brother Bolton writes, "We might not have always agreed with him, yet..." reminds me of situationsI have told many times in succeeding years. In thecompany with others, people would disagree withbrother Randolph on Bible topics, and yet often beforelong I would hear of their asking Wright what the Biblesaid on various topics. They respected him as a Christian and as a Bible student. He was a good writer, and the first I knew of him was through his contributions to various papers. You never doubted his faith in God andthe Bible as the word of God. Yet he was not afraid to say "I don't know." I remember on one occasion while eating a snack on the golf course, I asked him about adifficult passage, and he said in effect, "I wish I knew."I have noticed that the greatest Bible students I haveever known often said, "I don't know." That is not a mark of weakness; but a sign of honesty and candor. Ifone doesn't have these qualities he can never know theLord.

Our sincere sympathy to Ethel and the rest of thefamily. May the Lord bless and keep you.Robert A. Bolton Richardson, Texas

Jady W. CopelandLakeland, Florida

FLYING BY INSTRUMENTS

Dr. Ed Wheat in his excellent volume, "Love Life ForEvery Married Couple," quotes a magazine article byGloria Okes Perkins. The article compares times of trialand emotional instability with the clouds, fog, and airturbulence an airplane pilot experiences. The answer inboth cases is to "fly by the instruments."

"When there is no visual contact with the earth . . . when no horizon is in view, stability can be achieved only by depending on what those vital gyros have to say.

"What it true for pilots in the skies is just as true inanother sense for believers in the difficulties of life when normal conditions of stability seem to vanish in cloudsof sorrow and confusion. Sooner or later every believerwill have to fly by instruments spiritually and emotionally through bad times....

"While piloting a plane in a thick fog, a pilot cannot besure of his direction unless he gives full attention to hisinstruments. When flying through a thunderstorm, the turbulence will throw him about, and the darknesswithin the clouds will threaten to disorient him. Sometimes he will feel as though he is going up or down orturning around. But he cannot depend on his feelings.Only the gyros can be trusted, so the pilot must hang on to the controls in the turbulence and discipline his mind to concentrate on the instruments while he flies through the storm."

I worked in Air Traffic Control in the Air Force. Myspecific duties were divided between the control towerand the GCA (Ground Controlled Approach) unit. In GCA, we monitored the aircraft on radar as it made itsfinal approach and we maintained constant radio contact.

Continuously we advised the pilot of his position andhis need to correct course so many degrees left or rightand so many feet up or down.

In the thick England fog, there was a lot of instrument flying. Usually the pilot would never see the runway until he was right on top of it.

I'm not sure about others, but my own life has beenpretty much that way. I've had to alter my course fairly often.

There seem to be some fellows around who learned all truth early in life and have never had to correct theircourse left or right. I have not been so fortunate.

While listening to some tapes of Brother Homer Hailey's Bible class at Florida College of some yearsback, I was even more impressed by his basic honesty than his superb knowledge. In one class period he askedthe students to give attention to a Scripture they had studied some weeks before.

"I now believe I taught you wrong on that," said Brother Hailey. "I was reading some commentaries lastevening, and I'm convinced this writer has the truth on the passage."

I suspect that anyone who hasn't altered his course recently, is not flying by the instruments.

Whether in marriage, employment, church, work, orjust life in general, the way of man is not in himself. Godhas provided a navigational aid and we had better keep our instrument panels in good repair.

The article by Gloria Okes Perkins continues:

"The parallel truth for the Christian in troubled timesis clear. Undisciplined feelings . . . can cause a crash unless one keeps himself stabilized by the facts of the word of God... every promise in the word of God is like a gyro giving information to stabilize him in a specificsituation... With daily practice one learns not to panic but to believe a specific truth from the Bible fitted forhis own unique circumstances. By experience one learnsnot to fight his feelings, but to look away from them to the ''instrument panel"1 of the word of God which is utterly dependable.

"One discovers that if he will just hang on in the worstof the turbulence, no matter how disrupting, his mind and heart steadied by the great truths of the word and his eyes intently fixed on God Himself, he will eventually break through rain-black clouds to soar once morein the clear, tranquil atmosphere."

The words of Proverbs 3:5,6 should be memorized andimbibed by everyone: "Trust in the Lord with all yourheart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct yourpaths."

FORSAKING THE ASSEMBLIES

QUESTION: Can you forsake the assembly by wilfully missing it once?

ANSWER: No, one cannot forsake the assembly bywilfully missing it one time. He has neglected the assembly, but he has not forsaken it. "Forsake" (egkataleipo) means "to abandon, desert" (Thayer, p. 166), toleave behind, to quit. "Neglect" implies "giving insufficient attention to something that has a claim to one's attention" (Webster). A husband might neglect his wife,but that does not mean he has abandoned her.

Paul wrote, "For Demas hath forsaken me, havingloved this present world, and is departed into Thessalonica" (2 Tim. 4:10). Demas forsook Paul in departingfrom him, being no longer a companion and worker inthe proclamation of the gospel. The word "forsake" inHeb. 10:25 is from the same Greek word as is found in 2 Tim. 4:10 and connotes the same idea, i.e., desertion.

In reading Heb. 10:25 to which the querist apparentlyalludes, we notice, "Not forsaking the assembling ofourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see theday approaching." The verse does not say, "the assembly," as though only one assembly is under consideration. Some would make the day in this passage theLord's day assembly. However, the day, in my estimation, is not the Lord's day, nor is it the second coming ofChrist. The "day" in Heb. 10:25 could be seen, i.e., therewould be observable signs to indicate its approach. Thisfits what Jesus said concerning the destruction of Jerusalem (Matt. 24:1-35; Mk. 13:1-31; Lk. 21:5-33), andwould be most applicable to the Jewish Christians living in Palestine to whom the Hebrew letter was mostlikely written. Therefore, the "day" is the time when Jerusalem would be destroyed by the Romans.

The verse states, "Not forsaking the assembling ofourselves together," and this denotes, "Do not abandon, desert, the assemblies of the church; do not withdraw yourselves from the meetings of the saints ofGod." Some of them had already quit and perhaps hadreturned to the Jewish religion, or they were simplystaying home, perhaps out of fear of the Jews and dread of persecution, and not attending the services. However, many persons who forsake the assemblies are notapostates, i.e., deny the Sonship of Jesus and the efficacy of His blood, but rather are backsliders who quit serving the Lord for other reasons than infidelity.

To hold fast our profession without wavering faith(10:23), we need the fellowship and encouragement offellow-Christians in frequent assemblies. Hence, "Andlet us consider one another to provoke (stimulate) unto love and to good works" (10:24). For those who abandonthe assemblies, and go so far as to apostatize from the gospel of Christ, "there remaineth no more sacrifice forsins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries"(10:26-27). The context of Heb. 10:25 shows, as well asthe entire book, that more is involved in "forsaking the assembling of ourselves together" than merely missingone assembly of the church, or being spasmodic in attendance, Those saints, it seems to me, were being warned against defection from Christianity.

E.M. Zerr commented on "forsaking" in Heb. 10:25,"The word does not refer to those who are 'irregular inattendance" or who 'just come occasionally.' (There are other scriptures which take care of such delinquents.)But it means those who remain away from the assemblies so long that they can no longer be considered as apart of the group" (Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, p. 230).Zerr does not offer any reason why some of the JewishChristians had forsaken the assemblies. R. C. H. Lenski said in reference to the statement, "asthe manner of some is," the following, "This is morethan just carelessness; it is the beginning of apostasy"(Interpretation of Hebrews, p. 354). Robert Milligan wrote, "The Apostle refers here, not to apostasy fromthe Church, as some allege, but simply to the neglect ofpublic and social worship" (New Testament Commentary on Hebrews, p. 283). I disagree with Milligan forthe reasons already given, and because of his commentson verse 26 where he says, "To sin wilfully after that wehave received the knowledge of the truth is the same asto apostatize from Christ, for which there is no forgiveness." If this is apostasy in v. 26, why is not apostasythe reason for abandonment of the assemblies in v. 25?

In conclusion, let me say that a Christian cannotjustify himself in willfully missing just one service.Such action reflects a weakness of faith and a paucity oflove. Obviously, a person like this needs to repent of hissin. But to call this behavior a desertion or abandonment of the assemblies of the church is farfetched. On the other hand, Heb. 10:25, and context, shows theimportance and need of attending all the services of thechurch, even that one time the querist asks about.

There are many reasons for taking the gospel to India. Millions now living will die in India without Christ.Jesus commanded that the gospel be taught to all nations. There are 10s of thousands of villages that havenever had the gospel preached to them. India is a nationof 746 million souls. It is about 1/3 the size in area of theUnited States. 83% are Hindu; 11% are Muslim; 2.6%are "Christian"; 3.4% are Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, Parsis, and others. 15 Million are added to the populationeach year. We haven't touched the hem of the garment!

I don't want to be misunderstood in this article,please. I am not saying that every preacher needs to goto India or that every church has to have India in it's budget. There are many places in the world and it is a matter of judgment as to where one wants to put forththeir efforts for Christ. My point is simply that India isin the great commission of our Lord and someone mustgo! Those who can go should go and those who can helpmake it possible for them to go should do so. There isresponsibility here for some and thus accountabilitybefore God.

Another reason for returning to India year after yearis that the second teaching (Matt. 18:20) must not beneglected. It is not enough to teach and baptize peopleinto Christ. We must also teach them to observe all things that the Lord has commanded. This is why it isneedful to return and have Bible classes for the brethren and deal with their questions and needs. Many knowalmost nothing of the Bible and need a lot of very basicteaching. Many do not even have Bibles at all to study.Others can't read or write. We can't just baptize themand leave them. This is irresponsible. We will have bloodon our hands (Acts 20:20, 26-27). We must continue to go to India.

Paul told Timothy (II Tim. 2:2) to teach other faithfulmen in order for them to teach others and so the chain goes. The gospel work in India among conservativebrethren is still in its infancy. Not that many maturemen there yet. We have special classes for those whopreach. We tape the lessons and leave the tapes withthem. We also take detailed outlines of the lessons and leave them. Tapes of good lessons by other preachersare also taken to give to the Indian brethren. These Indian preachers generally have many good Bible questions for us to deal with. They come into contact withmany ideas from Hindus, Muslims, and others thatneed some attention and solid instruction from the Word of God. Many of these men are babes in Christwho go about on their own with little help from the village people and no financial help from the USA and preach Christ, baptizing people. Their zeal shames usand motivates us to greater effort on our part to tryharder to come to them and assist them in their growthin the grace and knowledge of Christ (II Pet. 3:18).

Some of these men have needs that we try to meet aswe are able. Eye glasses so that they can read the Wordof God for some, bicycles for a few so that they can getfrom village to village, and Bibles for those who needthem. A Bible costs $2.50. A daily wage person out inthe village may earn 40 to 50 cents a day which isneeded to buy rice for that day! It is not difficult for usto see then that a Bible is very difficult for them toobtain. It would cost a weeks wage with no money tobuy food for that week. This is why we try to help withBibles for the daily wage people who are Christians.These village preachers are always pleading for Biblesto give to the brethren.

The nation is unstable as far as opportunity in thegospel is concerned. We may be shut out of the countryat any time. Anti-conversion bills have been hotly debated by the Indian law-makers for years. Some of thestates and areas do have such and brethren that I know personally have been arrested for teaching the Bible.Some brethren from the states have been refused entryinto India and others have been turned back at the airport customs (II Thess. 3:1-2). Those of us who gocan only get into the country for brief visits. We usuallygo for four to six weeks at a time. We can only apply fora visitor or tourist visa. We cannot go and stay for an extended period of time. Even these short visits may betaken away from us at any time. I just do not know,really, one way or the other. I only know that for now the door is open to some of us and we had better gothrough that door or answer to God!

One very important reason to go to India is that theIndian brethren need to know that we care-that we have not taught them, baptized them, and run away to thesafety and comfort of the USA. The Indian brethren are greatly encouraged by our visits. This is the way it wasin the New Testament, by the way. We need to "see howthey do" (Acts 15:36) as Paul did for those churchesplanted by his previous efforts. We need to visit andgive one another comfort in the Lord (Acts 16:40; IICor. 7:6-7,13). (Did you read these verses?) I have heardother preachers make the same point with reference tothe countries in South America, the Philippines, etc. Itis certainly so as far as Indian is concerned. I've been there nine times over the past ten years and I haveexperienced this very thing with the brethren manytimes.

Do be aware of the fact that false teachers from the USA and elsewhere will be happy to move in and "help"the brethren if we give place to them (Gal. 2:4, 5). Weget letters that inform us that false teachers have visited the areas and brethren want to know how to deal with the doctrines. The cults are in India and the denominations have schools and hospitals there as well.To a babe in Christ, this can be terribly confusing. In asea of Hinduism on every side, someone who believes inChrist and claims to be a Christian must be a goodteacher. We know that this just isn't so. However, one who is new in the faith and may not even have a Bible isfair game to these people. We have a great responsibility here that weighs heavily upon my heart (II Cor.11:28). We must return to these churches and groundthem in the faith.

There are various needs that cannot be dealt with "with paper and ink" (II Jno. 12) as well as they can be"face to face". Sure, we carry on a great deal of correspondence with Indian brethren. I write several lettersto different people in India each week. There are questions that need to be answered, request for Bibles, bicycles, eye-glasses, etc., and other matters that need attention. However, many times I write back and say thatI will sit down with you and discuss this with you face toface when, Lord willing, I see you next visit. Letterstake 8 to 14 days to get to India by air mail. Sometimesletters are lost and never arrive. This has happened toimportant letters that caused grief. Several money orders have been lost or stolen. The mail is slow and not always reliable out in the villages

Sometimes when I answer a question, there are several other questions that come to mind. It goes on and on over a long drawn out period of time through themail. There is no substitute for being there!

These are some of the reasons that motivate me to continue to go to India.

Arriving in India is like going back many years intime. There are ox-carts and modern automobiles on the same highway. The situation there is many times verydistasteful to people from the West. The open sewersalong the streets, the noise and filth, the strange food,and the backward conditions, are just a few of the matters of cultural shock that face the Westerner. However,this is more than offset by the opportunity to work withand teach some of the most receptive and gracious people that one would ever meet anywhere in the world.They have very little of this world's goods but they arewilling to share with us what they do have and do everything that they possibly can do to make us ascomfortable as possible. I have stayed in a mud hutwith a straw roof in a village of untouchables while thefamily moved in with the water buffalo under a strawshelter. They simply refused to have it any other way!And they did this with joy and gratitude that we werethere to teach them the Word of God. How can one's heart not be touched by people like this?

We have witnessed many times people sitting on theground (blanket or a straw mat) for hours listening to the Bible being taught. They always ask for more and when can we return and teach them again.

Certainly there are difficulties in India. There are false brethren (II Cor. 11:26) who seek to take advantage of us and the brethren. There are Hindus and others who try to destroy the gospel work there. I could give several examples of this. These and other reasonsare why I suggest that not just anyone jump on anairplane and head for India. There are pitfalls and oneshould go with others who have been there and knowthe circumstances first hand.

Those who go to India for weeks at a time surely need the full support of their families back home. The wife and children need to know how very important the workof preaching the gospel of Christ is in India and bewilling to part with the husband/daddy for those weeks.Not every family can do this and I'm not suggestingthat they must. Again, however, some body has to goand if one can, others should encourage and supporttheir efforts.

Those who want to go also need the support and understanding of the brethren as well. The brethren need to know and believe whole-heartedly the pointsmade at the beginning of this article concerning theneed for men going to India. They must be willing tocarry on the local work in the absence of the preacherand not either have things pile up for his return orcomplain about his being away! Mature brethren mustcome forward here and keep things in proper perspective for the rest of the brethren. Again, some one mustgo; some one has to be gone from some congregation forfour to six weeks. Some immature brethren think it must always be some other congregation, not theirs! Ifthe one who wants to go to India cannot overcome this,then he probably needs to stay at home. It is a difficultsituation and calls for mature judgment and understanding on the part of all (preacher, family, and brethren).

Brethren, the door is open at the present time forpreaching the gospel of Christ in India. I would behappy to hear from anyone who is interested in thiswork. Into all the world! Phone: (502) 499-9942

The book of Philippians was written by Paul while hewas in prison in Rome. His trial had probably alreadytaken place and he seems to be waiting for the verdict.It appears that he expected to be released, but wasuncertain about it. Paul, no doubt, did not enjoy being imprisoned. His movement was hindered. Nevertheless, it is interesting to note his attitude in Philippians

1:12. Here he said "Now I want you to know, brethren, that mycircumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel" (NASB)

One would have thought that Paul's imprisonment would have hindered the gospel. Instead, it did the opposite; it caused the "furtherance", (NKJV), of the gospel. How did this happen? How did bad turn into good? Paul gives us ananswer in the text.

The Gospel Spread

First, in verse 13 he says, "So that my bonds in Christare manifest; ('become as well known', NASB); in all the palace, and in all other places;". Paul's imprisonmenthad given him the chance to preach the gospel in Rome;it had given the gospel publicity during his trial and atother times that it would not have otherwise gotten.

Paul always seemed to make the best of whatevercircumstance that he found himself in. (Note his attitude on another occasion when he was unjustlyarrested-Acts 16:23ff.) What happened to Paul wasvery bad. An event like this would cause most people to want to "give up", especially if, like Paul, their tribulation was for doing right instead of for doing wrong.However, Paul made the best of this bad situation. Hesaw it as a chance to preach the gospel in other places.

Today, we must learn to make the best out of adversity. We must use it for whatever good that we can whether the problem be sickness, persecution, loss ofloved ones or pain and suffering. Also, like Paul, weshould take advantage of all kinds of situations to teach others.

The Influence Of Paul

The second reason that Paul gave to indicate his imprisonment had helped further the gospel is found inverse 14. This verse says, "And many of the brethren inthe Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear." Paul's courage inspired others to boldly proclaim God's Word. Paul's good traits "rubbed off" on others. Courage issometimes contagious. Often, one person can stand up in a complacent world and do what is right, and cause many others to do right also. Many people want to dowhat is right, but they need a leader to get themstarted. Paul was such a person; we can be also. However, it takes courage to do this, and sometimes a person must stand alone. Certainly all of us probably havemore influence on others, for good or bad, than we realize.

Summation

Many bad things can happen to us. However, the Christian can use the tribulation to his advantage. Romans 5:3 tells us that tribulation, (generally regarded asbad), produces patience (that which we need). Tribulation can be a stumbling block or/a stepping stone. It isup to us to turn adversary into advantage. Paul's outlook should help us to see this clearly.

When a problem arises in a local church and brethrenallow it to escalate into church trouble, it is frequentlyexplained that they are having a personality conflict.Many times that is a euphemism for the prevailing of anungodly attitude among the members.

A personality conflict cannot disrupt the peace of alocal church unless sin is committed. When there are personalities in a local church, which are not naturallycompatible with one another, the word of God tells ushow to avoid disrupting the peace of the church. "Withall lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavoring to keep the unity ofthe Spirit in the bond of peace" (Eph. 4:2, 3). Allowingpersonality conflicts to disrupt peace and destroy harmony in a local church violates Ephesians 4:2, 3.Plainly, that is sin.

Ephesians 4:2, 3 is written to "the faithful in ChristJesus" (Eph. 1:2). Those who are faithful to the Lordmust obey Ephesians 4:2, 3 in order to continue "faithful in Christ Jesus."

If my personality clashes with the personality ofbrother Brown and we both obey Ephesians 4:2, 3, howcould it be possible for our personality conflict to destroy the unity of the local church of which we aremembers?

What if one of us — what if I deal with the conflict without lowliness and meekness, am not longsuffering and forbearing with brother Brown, but instead speak out against the traits of brother Brown's personalitywhich peave me and constantly belittle his irksomemannerisms or forms of expression? What would happen in the local church if brother Brown in lowliness and meekness were to be longsuffering and forbearing withmy constant abuse of him? How long could that situation exist within a local church before the entire membership would see that my constant abuse of brotherBrown was an expression of my own ungodly attitude?It should soon become apparent that I was not obeying the teaching to live righteously (Titus 2:12).

Possibly some one is thinking, "It would not be fairfor brother Brown to have to bear such abuse in silence. I readily grant that such would not be fair to brother Brown. The question is: Whence came the idea, we maylive the life of a Christian without being forbearing withthose who treat us unfairly? How fairly was Jesustreated by those who condemned and crucified Him?"Like a lamb dumb before his shearers, so opened he nothis mouth" (Acts 2:32 & Isa. 53:7). When they crucifiedHim, He prayed, "Father forgive them; for they know not what they do" (Luke 23:34). Jesus did not scream,"THIS IS UNFAIR!" Jesus said, "Father into thyhands I commend my spirit" (Luke 23:46).

When Jesus was on earth, He warned the ungodly among the people of God of the damnation of hell. Weneed to sound that same warning to every brother orsister who might allow a conflict between his/her personality and another member's personality to disruptthe peace and destroy the harmony or unity of the localchurch.

Factious brethren or sisters should be dealt with according to the teaching of Titus 3:10. A local church does not have to put up with bickering and backbitingamong its membership.

"Now we command you, brethren, in the name of ourLord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves fromevery brother that walketh disorderly, and not after thetradition which ye received of us" (2 Thessalonians 3:6).This is a command given every Christian when anotherChristian turns back to the "world." It is somethingthat must be carried out be every member of the congregation if it is to have the impact God intended. MostChristians recognize the New Testament teaching, hereand in Matthew, Romans, First Corinthians and Titus,regarding corrective discipline within the church family. But does the fact that we carry out what has come tobe known as "church discipline" mean we have dealtcorrectly with those whom we mark? I think an important question must be asked of every Christian, 'Whatdid I do to draw nearer to that brother or sister before the situation arose calling on me to withdraw?"

Discipline must be viewed in two parts, first there must be instruction and then the withdrawal. I fear we have short circuited the first part of this process far too many times. Instruction involves the teaching that isdone publicly, but it is much more! It involves gettingto know one another, knowing one another's' strengthsand weaknesses. It means having association with each other so instruction in the Christian way is personal andon going. How can I "rejoice with them that do rejoice,"or "weep with them that weep," when I have made noeffort to know them?

A good test for ourselves, as to what effort we had putinto making someone feel they were a part of God'sfamily, comes when it is necessary to withdraw fromthat person. Now most of us would say, "I felt terribleabout it.' But what does "terrible" mean? I think we have the mental knowledge of their lost condition thatmakes us feel sad when a brother or sister returns to following Satan; but how we feel about the particularperson will depend on how close we were to that person.What if a Christian was never made to feel a part of thefamily of God? Or, having once felt a part of the family,fell away with little or no contact from other Christians. How effective would withdrawing be on that person — it would not be effective!

Every time we "withdraw" from someone, I ask myself, "Did I do all I could?" I fear sometimes the answeris NO! Paul said, "Now we exhort you, brethren, warnthem that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men." 1 Thess. 5:14.

What part did you or I have in trying to restore those from whom we have withdrawn? If we never called,visited or made an effort to restore them to faithfulness we will answer to God one day! If we made one visit andlaid it on the line to them, we have not done our duty!But if we in love and concern warned, comforted andsupported them in efforts (plural) to restore them to theLord, then we have fulfilled all that God requires of us. I fear most of us fall into the group that has made little orno contact. It is unrealistic to think one can walk into another Christian's home for the first time and simplytell them to straighten up, and think you have done all that you can. Paul's words to the Thessalonians required time and effort on the part of strong Christians.It requires a sense of "family" that will only come frommuch time together. It requires drawing near!

I am sure "church discipline" will not have the impactGod intended if we have not first made repeated effortsto warn, comfort and support a weak brother or sister.Do not think God will be pleased that we have "withdrawn" from someone we have not tried to teach. It seems that it would be impossible to Scripturally "withdraw" from someone if I had never tried to draw near to them first.

Send all News Hems lo: Connie W. Adams, P.O. Box 69, Brooks, KY 40109

SOUTHSIDE LECTURES

The Southside church in Pasadena, Texas will have a lecture series June 1-4. DEE BOWMAN will speak on "Temptation and Sin", "Love", "The Adversary", "The Resurrection." HOMER HAILEY will speak on"The Word Became Flesh", "The Virgin Birth", "The Authoritative Word", "The King In His Kingdom." C. G. (COLLY) CALDWELL willspeak on "Salvation", "Opposition", "Providence", "Praising and Glorifying God." ED HARREL will speak on "Self-Control", "Predestination", "Faith" and "Joy." Congregational singing will be led by

R. J. STEVENS.

JIM WHIDDEN, 721 Morningview Dr., Thomasville, AL 36784 — We have been with the church here since October, 1983. At that time over75% of my support had to be raised elsewhere. At the present time, we are not only fully self-supporting but have also begun a training program for new preachers. In addition the brethren have indicated aninterest in making my services available for gospel meetings with congregations unable to pay for such.

CARL McMURRAY, 5019 N. W. 30th Terrace, Gainesville, FL 32601 — My family and I have been working with the Northeast church for almost 5 years now. Many positive changes have taken place and the Lord hasconsistently blessed the efforts of these good people. With many conversions, the building is at capacity and the church is at peace.

We are now planning to move to Omaha, Nebraska to work with theLaVista congregation there. The church in Omaha is one of only three

in the state (and one of these is just a couple of families) and as such,accurately represents the state of the Lord's church throughout the Midwest. Mike Davis, who is working with them in Omaha, will remainand we will work together with him and his family. With half a million soulsin this city, there will be plenty for two men to do. Having worked with thechurch in Sioux City, Iowa for five years also, previous experience saysthat two men would be better able to deal with the discouragement of veryfew other Christians. We are planning to move in late May, beforeseasonal cost increases in shipping. The Brownsburg, Indiana church and the Jordan Park church in Huntsville, Alabama have graciously committedto most of our support and moving expenses, though we presently lack $1,000 per month support and $1,700 in moving costs. If anyone is interested in this "mission field" in our nation's heartland, we would be glad to hear from you. Also, if anyone has contacts in Omaha or stationed atOffutt Air Force Base that we could contact, we would welcome that. References will be supplied to those interested.

I have also been asked to write concerning the church in Sioux City,Iowa. Having worked there 5 years I can vouch for the fact that it is a pleasant place to live and could bring forth fruit in the Lord's vineyard.But, they do need someone to come and work with them. The area contains just under 100,000 souls. The church owns its own building ina decent part of town. The reason they are small is not fussing that hasdivided many southern churches. I have generally found these mid-western congregations to be very close. The area is simply difficult. Itcould be a blessing to them and to any man who

could come to the Midwest and put his hand to the plow here. Forfurther information you may call or write GLENN MYER, Rt. 2, Box101, Bancroft, NE 68004. Phone (402) 648-7697.

WILSON ADAMS.891 Autumn Valley Lane, Gambrills, MD 21054

— The work at Wildercroft in the Washington, D. C. area continues tobe extremely encouraging. Attendance runs in the 160's and we haveseen 10 baptized the first three months of 1987. We pray the Lord willcontinue to bless us and use us in whatever way He can. Each year Ireceive several calls in reference to "good places" to stay in the D. C.area. There have been several new and inexpensive (at least by D. C.standards) motels built on I-95 (the Capital Beltway) at the exit forCentral Avenue (MD 214). There is a Days Inn, Motel 6, Motel 8,Knight Inn, and a Red Roof Inn is also nearby. These motels are nearthe subway as well as being only ten minutes from our building. And,if I may add one more observation... please, Please, PLEASE whentraveling to places frequented by many visitors, don't call on Sunday morning and ask for transportation to services. It's probably too late.As you make your travel plans try and make as many arrangements asyou can IN ADVANCE. Brethren are generally very receptive and ready to assist those needing transportation, directions, etc., if youonly give them time to do so. Have a great summer — remember thatthe Lord comes first no matter where you are — and visit with us ifyour travel plans include the nations capital.

VIVION ROAD LECTURES

The Vivion Road church, 2026 N. E. Vivion Rd., Kansas City, Missouri 64118, will have a lectureship June 22-25, 1987 with ARDIEBROWN presenting a series on "Positive Christianity" and "Humanism." BOB BUCHANON will speak on "God's Heroes" and "Lessons From Ephesians." L. A. STAUFFER will speak on "Lessons FromThe Psalms" and "Premillennialism." For information on video or audio tapes, or housing during the lectures, please write to the churchat P.O. Box 28478, Kansas City, MO 64118. Phone (816)452-3684.

RAY MADRIGAL, 165 Hillington Dr., Paducah, KY 42001 — After six years of preaching in Bridgeview, Illinois, we have recentlymoved to Paducah in northwestern Kentucky. Our work in southwest Chicago was fruitful and rewarding. We left the Bridgeview church at peace and on a productive note. Twenty-one sinners were converted to Christ while over twenty unfaithful Christians were restored. We rejoice in God's blessings. We look forward to what God has in store for us in Paducah. If you knowanybody in the Paducah area who might be receptive to the gospel,or of some neglectful Christian in need of encouragement, please letus know. Phone me at (502)554-7639.

DENNIS G. ALLAN, P.O. Box 17, Auburn, Michigan 48611 — InJune, 1985 we moved to the tri-cities area of Michigan. This includesSaginaw-Bay City-Midland. The work in this area began with 9 Christians and several children meeting together in 1979 when severalleft a congregation in the area because of violation of the Biblicalpattern. In spite of disappointments, this small group pressed on andled others to Christ. Some good families have moved to the area, others left a nearby congregation because of erroneous teaching and practice and some have been baptized into Christ. There are presently26 members with attendance in the mid — 30's. There is much opportunity. We are thankful to God for the good done.

I would like to inform you regarding the needs of Fred and Beverly McKinney who are members here. They have done much faithful workover the years. Brother McKinney has been disabled from his preaching work the past few years because of a rare and serious combinationof physical ailments. Though limited by health problems, the McKinneys have been a stable and encouraging influence here. His health hasshown some improvement but it will be sometime before he can returnto regular work of any kind. With the help of sister McKinney'semployment, assistance from relatives and individual Christians, and small amount from here and congregations in other areas, they are managing to meet the immediate costs of food and shelter. However,these means have not been sufficient to even begin to help with over$25,000 in medical bills which have accumulated over the past severalyears. Any help, on a onetime or repeated basis would help relievefaithful and deserving saints. Inquiries may be made directly to Fred McKinney, 1520 Taylor St., Bay City, MI 48708, phone (517)892

1351, or to the writer at the address which heads this notice. My phone is (517)662-7645.

CECIL WILLIS, P.O. Box 15, Woodlake, TX 75865 — I have justreturned from a preaching trip to Fairbanks, Alaska. The meeting wasmy seventh in Alaska. I first preached at Fairbanks in 1966, so I havehad first-hand contact with the brethren there for over 20 years. Thechurch at Fairbanks began in the early 1960's. The membership has fluctuated, usually mirroring fluctuation of the job market. With thepresent recession in the oil market, the congregation now is at a ratherlow ebb numerically. They now number 16 members. Eleven of those 16 members are under 30 years of age, and some of these have beenChristians only a few months. It has been several years since the congregation has had a preacher to work with them, and they need one now. They are building a nice little meeting house. The basementportion is completed and they are meeting in it. The upper portion isroughed in, and many of the materials needed to complete that part have been purchased, and more work will be done on the building thisyear. They have no indebtedness on their building.

Contributions at Fairbanks run about $200.00 weekly. Several ofthe members are students and have little or no income at the moment. Utilities on the building run about $400 per month. They will be ableto pay $500 per month toward a preacher's support, which is aboutwhat it costs to rent a one-bedroom apartment in Fairbanks. It is myintention to move to Fairbanks in May. Living expenses are a littlehigher there than in the lower 48 states. So the brethren tell me I willneed about $2,000 per month, in addition to what the Fairbankschurch can supply. If necessary, I will get a secular job in order to helpthem in the work. The brethren feel I can be of some help to them in the Lord's work in this city of 25,000 (with 70,000 in the marketing area).

The latest statistics (1985) show 521.000 people in Alaska distributed over an area more than twice the size of Texas. There are only foursmall faithful churches in the state: Anchorage, Fairbanks, Solotna,and Barrow. Dean Crews at Anchorage is the only faithful preacher inthe state. He has been trying to work a little with all four churches.But Fairbanks if 450 miles from Anchorage and Barrow is more than1,000 miles north of Anchorage. All four of these churches would number no more than 100 saints. By comparison, Texas has more than350 faithful churches, in an area half the size of Alaska. So there is a vast harvest field for the work of every willing Christian.

There are four large military installations in Alaska. Two of theseare located at Fairbanks. There are thousands of young military menstationed there, usually for four year terms. These bases hire manythousands of civilian employees, in addition to the military assignees.There needs to be a vigorous church near these strategic centers.

If the church where you worship can consider additional preachersupport, please inform them of my need in Fairbanks. Over the years,I have assisted in raising support for literally hundreds of gospelpreachers. As best I can remember, this is the first time I have everneeded to raise support for myself (excepting $100 a month for six months one time). I am willing to get a secular job to help thesebrethren, but doing so would hamper the amount of effort I could make in teaching the gospel. I do not mean to indicate that Fairbanksis a more needful area than some other, or that I need support morethan some other brother. But it is true that Fairbanks is a needful field, and I would like to go to work there. So, if you or others whomyou know could help, I would be most grateful.

FROM AFAR ROMEO V. TORRELIZA, Burgos St. Poblacion Sur, Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur, Republic of the Philippines — As in days of old, Iwill rehearse what God has done with us. There was growth in all phases of our work in 1986. Ten were baptized into Christ. We distributed tracts and invitations at the town proper, at two colleges inthe area and put signboards at strategic places to let people know we are here. I was invited to preach in a gospel meeting atPakiling, Bucay, Abra in January, 1987. Four were baptized in thiseffort. PAUL WILLIAMS, P.O. Box 324, Eshowe, 3815 South Africa — We had a two weeks tent meeting in Eshowe. Each service lasted about two hours including a children's class, singing,the Jule Miller film strip, sermon and question period. Except onrainy nights the tent was comfortable full with 60-80 people. Six werebaptized. The four high school teachers who were baptized while inEshowe College of Education in 1985 scheduled a week-end meetingin their school hall March

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13-15. Paddy Kendall-Ball, who works with them regularly, MichaelGumede and I preached. The brethren were encouraged because a goodnumber of young people attended. The question periods were profitable,and two young women in their 20'a were baptized.

PREACHERS NEEDED SUMMERVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA — The Bacon's Bridge Rd.church needs a preacher. The work started one year ago with 3-9 peoplebut now 30-40 attend. Majority of support will have to be raisedelsewhere. Contact RAY GOFF, Van Buren, Ladson, SC 29456. Phone (803)875-3842.

TUALATIN, OREGON — This congregation of 19 members began inJuly, 1986. We presently carry the preaching duties, but are in process ofseeking a full-time preacher. Tualatin is 12 miles south of Portland on I-5 near its intersection with I-205. This is a rapidly growing area of metropolitan Portland. A new Mormon temple is being built about 4 milesfrom here. We are able to supply S700 per month support. Contact LeonFermenick (503)246-2430, 9615 S. W. 62nd Ave., Portland, OR 97219.

PREACHER NEEDED ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI — A full-time preacher is needed to work with acongregation of about 85. We are self-supporting and without elders anddeacons at present. If interested, please write to the Affton Church ofChrist, 6915 Weber Rd., St. Louis, MO 63123.

DEBATE KEN GREEN, 2212 Jordan Lane, Huntsville, AL 35805 — I am to debate Hayes of the Emmanuel Church of Christ July 1, 2 and 4, 5.Hayes will affirm one person in the Godhead Monday and Tuesday in theJordan Park building and I will affirm three persons in the God-headThursday and Friday in their building on Drake Ave.

IN THE NEWS THIS MONTH BAPTISMS 315 RESTORATIONS 62 (Taken from bulletins and papers received by the editor)