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Preacher's Magazine Church of the Nazarene

12-1-1955 Preacher's Magazine Volume 30 Number 12 Lauriston J. Du Bois (Editor) Olivet Nazarene University

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1 " J l i e p r e a c h e r J ^l l ja cja zin e

Volume 30 December, 1955 Number 12

CONTENTS

Cover—John Huss (See page 8)

Photo Credit: Religious News Service

The Romance of Ministerial Fellowship, W. S. Purinton...... 1 Editorial, The Bible Societies and the Church ...... 5

The Preaching of John Huss, James McGraw ...... 8

Principles of Pardon, D oyle C. S m ith ...... 11 The Man, Christ Jesus, S. C. Swinney ...... 14 Gibraltars of the Faith, J. Kenneth Grider ...... 15

The Chronically 111, J. E. Moore, Jr...... 18 Crusade for Souls, Alpin Bowes ...... 22

Christmas in the Parsonage, Mary E. W h i t e ...... 26 My Prayer for You, Mrs. R. T. Williams, Sr...... 27 Positive and Negative Preaching, Bernie Smith ...... 28

Sermon Subjects for December ...... 30

Sermon Workshop ...... 31 Book Briefs ...... 41

Index ...... 43

LAURISTON J. DU BOIS, Editor

Contributing Editors

Hardy C. Powers Samuel Young G. B. Williamson D. I. Vanderpool H. C. Benner

General Superintendents, Church of the Nazarene

Published monthly by the Nazarene Publishing House, 2923 Troost Avenue, Box 527, Kansas City 41, Missouri. Suh scription price: $1.50 a year. Entered as second-class matter at the post office at Kansas City, Mo. Address all communications to the PREACHER'S MAGAZINE, 6401 The Paseo, Box 6076, Kansas City 10, Missouri. Printed in U.S.A GUEST EDITORIAL

The Romance of Ministerial Fellowship

By W . S. Purinton

T n t h e s e n s e in which the word giving one another . . . And above all rom ance is here used, it is not dif­ these things put on charity, which is ficult to connect it with fellowship. the bond of perfectness” (Col. 3:12- They go together. My subject is “Min­ 14). He also said: “Giving no offence isterial Fellowship”—fe llo w sh ip in any thing, that the ministry be not among brethren in the ministry. In blamed” (II Cor. 6:3). Ministerial its broad sense, we thoroughly believe fellowship is a fellowship founded on in this and practice it. I heard Dr. divine love and Christian courtesy, D. I. V anderpool express it recently and based on mutual love and admira­ when he said: “One of the greatest tion one for another. blessings for Nazarene preachers is Such is the ideal. But I know that the marvelous, glorious fellowship we there have been cases of broken fel­ have.” We look forward with antici­ lowship among us, more serious even pation to the conventions, preachers’ than that of Paul and Barnabas when meetings, camps, district assemblies, they decided to disband their evange­ and to the General Assembly; not listic team. If I am to be helpful alone for the inspiring messages we here I must point out any lack, and will hear, but for the fellowship we show where Satan will do his best will enjoy. When we consider that to divide us. we are all one in Christ, and are I note at least four essentials for brought together because of our call fellowship among us as ministers. from God, and that we all have com­ mon desires and purposes, then cer­ H a v e a C h r i s t l i k e S p ir i t tainly no group should enjoy this fel­ Our spirit must be Christlike. We lowship more. must be dead to carnal self and have Beyond this, however, every Chris­ clean hearts and pure motives. We tian minister is, or should be, a Chris­ must exemplify the fruit of the Spirit. tian gentleman. Christianity and Paul gives the list (Gal. 5:22). James courtesy go together. Peter said: “Be reminds us that the wisdom that is courteous.” Courtesy is “politeness from above is, among other things, combined with kindness.” Paul writes peaceable (Jas. 3:17). Peter exhorts to the Colossians: “Put on therefore, us to “ love as brethren” (I Pet. 3: 8). as the elect of God, holy and beloved, Someone might say: “Does such a bowels of mercies, kindness, humble- gentle spirit make for strong leader­ n^s of mind, meekness, longsuffer- ship?” Well, it did with Christ, and in*f, forbearing one another, and for- He is our Example. Just as people loved to gather around the Master

^District Superintendent, Illinois District. and listen, so will people today be at­ l tracted to one who possesses these spirit. Bigheartedness, in the sense qualities of Spirit. in which I use it, may be possessed by Though there may be differences of natural man. He may inherit it, or disposition and of temperament, dif­ acquire it by proper training. Siidi ferences of culture and training, dif­ a trait can be developed. Many sin­ ferences of conscience and conviction ners are bighearted, kind to a degree, of Christian standards, yet if the liberal enough to share all they have. quality of the Spirit is Christlike there Yet some who profess holiness and will be real ministerial fellowship. some who are ministers appear to be But this quality of spirit is some­ little and small in their dealings with times put to the test. For instance, others; so little that they seem most when changing pastorates—do we do concerned in what will advance their our best to decrease and cause our own interests, and not enough con­ successors to increase in the love and cerned in what will advance others; confidence of the churches we are little in business dealings, in financial leaving? Do we appreciate the toil matters concerning both themselves and sacrifice of our predecessors in and their church. Others, instead of our new appointments, and give credit being open and aboveboard, appear for their accomplishments? When I sometimes to be tricky and need read some reports in the Herald, the watching. They will do a favor if it question comes to my mind: “Whom will help them in return. One such is this writer seeking to exalt, Christ who wanted a favor said to me once, or himself?” Discourtesy to a former “You scratch my back and I’ll scratch pastor does not make for true minis­ yours.” Another, nearly every time terial fellowship. I meet him, starts out with: “How This quality of spirit will be tested much salary are you getting now?” when a brother minister makes a and then he tells me of his latest glowing report at the assembly, and raise. I have heard of some that you must follow him with a report pulled for a large offering in a re­ that is not so glowing; or when an­ vival, and then wanted to withhold other is elected to a district office and some of it from the evangelist. I have you are not. In the fruit of the Spirit talked with some that seemed most there is no place for envy or jealousy. interested to get a new member who Or you may be sorely tested when a had a good salary, just because of the brother pastor receives some members amount of his tithe. And, brethren, I from your church. Shall you be un­ have actually known ministers who ethical because you feel he has been persuaded their boards to increase unethical? Suppose an ugly rumor is their own salaries, and then came to started about your brother minister. the superintendent complaining that What will be your attitude? Will you their budgets were too high, and that believe it without investigation? He they wouldn’t be able to pay them. I may be innocent and need a friend. know one who withheld his tithe from Of truth, to have that right quality the church treasury and used it to of spirit will create a rich and holy make improvements on the parsonage fellowship. where he lived. And I have known others that will draw $60.00 or more B e B i g h e a r t e d per week salary, live in the church The quality of one’s spirit is the parsonage, and then go out on result of a work of divine grace. The church’s time and make $60.00 more natural man cannot manifest a right every week in secular work.

2 (530) The Preacher's Magazine You say, “What has this to do with one that is seeking to carry out the ministerial fellowship?” Just this— plan of God. Our job is bigger than the pastor who is little enough to do any local church, and we must have £iese things would take advantage of that breadth of vision. Paul said: *nd break fellowship with his brother “For as the body is one, and hath minister if it would be to his own many members, and all the members advantage and personal gain. It is this of that one body, being many, are one type that will criticize and blame the body: so also is Christ” (I Cor. 12: district supei'intendent if he is disap­ 1 2 ) . We each have a place to fill, pointed in not getting the high-salaried but God’s plan is bigger than our church he thinks he should have. In place. If we work for Him we are order to deepen our ministerial fel­ back of His entire plan. lowship, let us all seek to avoid being I have heard it said: “If you really little. Let us strive above all else to want to get a job done, give it to a be bighearted, to be big men. busy man.” I believe there is a double meaning here. Not only is he indus­ H a v e a B r e a d t h o f V i s i o n trious, but he is bigger than the job It is important to have the ability he is now doing. He will find room to see beyond one’s own self, his own for another. I have noticed that the church, his own desires, and his own men who succeed are those who are problems. I feel we would do well willing to take on something extra, if each of us would often ask this those whose vision reaches beyond question: “Whom am I working for their present tasks. If we are to main­ —myself, my church which pays my tain proper ministerial fellowship, we salary, or the Lord?” must be willing to step in and help I know that our loyalty as pastors lift some other minister’s load; we belongs to our churches. But if this must be willing to help start a nearby is all that we see, then our vision is home-mission church, for which we too limited. I know some pastors who will get no credit in our own church, apparently are so absorbed in their and in so doing we may even have local churches that they have but to give up some members. Also, our little interest in the program of their interests must reach out to include zone or their district or their denom­ the foreign missionary interests of ination. They are careless in atten­ the church. We cannot be ingrown dance at district gatherings, careless in our vision. in their reports, and careless in pre­ senting the program of the district. B e W il l i n g t o C o - o p e r a t e They seem to resent any conflict with There will not be proper considera­ their local program, for it is all-im­ tion given to the ethics of ministerial portant to them. They are not en­ fellowship until we learn how to co­ thused about home missions and operate with our brethren, until we foreign missions. They go their own learn to fully appreciate the work of way, running their program, that is, others. Too many, I fear, find it dif­ until they run it into the ground; ficult to practice teamwork. It is and then they want the superinten­ easier to be a free lance or an inde­ dent to help them pull it out, or to pendent. But the team that wins is gAve them another church to handle in not the team where one man stars l9fe same way. They fail to see that and keeps in the limelight, but one the church they pastor functions as which practices co-operation and plays a unit within a world-wide movement, together as a unit. So it is in the

December, 1955 (531) 3 church. God has called us to a great Y e t what a joy it is to feel task; some to be prophets and preach­ That but for me the wheel might ers, pastors and evangelists, and some slip! teachers. We owe to our leaders and ’Tis something after all to jog fellow ministers the same co-opera- Along and be a first-class cog. tion that we expect from the laymen I believe that, in the main, we do in the churches that we serve. We have an exemplary fellowship. I be­ all want to succeed. But can we suc­ lieve it can be deepened and become ceed as ministers without pushing more universal if we will practice someone else down? Can we succeed these qualities. In fact, with them, and at the same time help others up? broken fellowship even can be re­ I believe w e can and must. “ N ow stored. there are diversities of gifts, but the I believe the classic Bible example same Spirit. And there are differences of such a fellowship is found in the of administrations, but the same Lord. case of David and Jonathan. Though And there are diversities of opera­ Jonathan was in line to be king, he tions, but it is the same God which thought more of the will of God than worketh all in all” (I Cor. 12:4-6). of his own personal advancement, How glorious and how wonderful to and deeply loved the man who was to find our place in the great plan of take his place. Phillips’ translation God, and then to co-operate with of Rom. 12:10 reads: “Let us have a every other part. real warm affection for one another, This thought to me is clearly ex­ as between brothers, and a w illing­ pressed in the homely little verse: ness to let the other man have the I’m but a cog in life’s vast wheel, credit.” This will produce real min­ That daily makes the same old trip; isterial fellowship.

Temptation A great deal could be said about the friendly side of temptation. This so-called "enemy" is often the very seed of Christian virtue, encouraging patience, establishing powers of endurance, bringing the satisfaction of moral victory. It is at once the mother of ethical life, the training ground of perfection and the classroom of character. All this, plus the additional opportunities it offers to bring light to wisdom, a spur to discipline, and an inspiration to courage, marks it as one of the most valuable forces in our lives. Shall we continue to run from temptation like frightened hares before the hounds? Shall w e snuggle dow n deep into our little fox­ holes of fear and plead for an untested peace of mind? Emphatically no! Righteousness is the means to happiness. It is the most important element in Christian life. We dare not shun what does most in the molding of our characters, in the creation of our spiritual greatness, and even in the establishment of our happiness. Our responsibility and our opportunity, therefore, are to call first on Divine assistance, then to rush out gladly to meet this friendly enemy. From Friendly Enemies By Robert R. Brown (Fleming H. Revell Company)

4 (532) The Preacher's Magazine FROM THE EDITOR

The Bible Societies and the Church

'T' h e B ib l e is the Book of the Chris- in the task of getting the Bible into tian religion, and as such is the the hands of all people. meeting place of all denominations This vision is so much an integral and the common source of all creeds part of every Christian movement and theologies. However else we may that each would be engaged in trans­ differ, however far apart are our lating, printing, and distributing the rituals and our creeds and our Word of God if the job were not being methods, we all meet at one rendez­ done satisfactorily by some other vous—we all drink at one spring— agency. In fact, if Christendom went the Bible. at this task as she goes at most other It is not unusual, then, that we find common Christian tasks, each de­ throughout history men of varying nomination would have its own backgrounds and faiths contributing agency for this very purpose. to the translation, the distribution, But fortunately, and no doubt in the interpretation and the preserva­ the providence of God, the pattern tion of God’s holy Word. The Protes­ was set early in the modern Chris­ tants must praise the Catholic monks tian movement of interdenomina-i who sheltered the Word from the tional co-operation in this all-import; plunderings of barbarians during the tant mission. In 1804 in England a Dark Ages. The Catholics must give handful of men burned with the vision" credit to the early Protestant leaders of getting Bibles to the underpriv­ who brought the Bible out of the ileged in their neighborhoods and wraps of scholasticism and ecclesias- communities. In a short time this ticism and put it into the hands of vision spread to getting Bibles to the plowman and the milkmaid. All other countries. This was the birth denominations can find some con­ of the British and Foreign Bible' tribution that all others have made Society, which celebrated its third; through some emphasis or interpre­ jubilee (150th anniversary) last year. tation of the Word of God, which has This movement spread to America benefited all Christendom and each and in 11816 the A m erican Bible denomination in particular. Each Society was born. Today there are looks to the Bible as the indispensable twenty-five of these national Bible" source of its respective belief. Societies functioning in as many Hence, we find that Christians from countries. These societies are the van­ the earliest day until now have been guard, the spearhead of Christianity’s interested in the Word, and inter­ mission in our day to spread the use ested in getting it into the hands of of the holy Word “without note or gihers. It is thrilling and gratifying comment” to the entire world. to see the extremes of Protestantism Out of these national societies, two come together today to join hands are outstanding for the world-wide

Decem ber, 1955 (533) 5 outreach of their work. First of these cent of the world’s population, in fact in date of origin and breadth of ac­ there are still about 1,000 languages tivity across the years is, of course, and dialects to go. In a sense this is the British. and Foreign Bible Society. the harder half of the work, for in Of the' 1,084 languages into which many cases these people do not haw some portion of the Bible is trans­ a written language and the process lated, the British and Foreign Bible is a slow one of reducing the spoken Society has been responsible for 832. language to written form, translating The second of these is the American a portion of the Scriptures into the Bible Society, which, while it has language, and then in teaching the been functioning effectively for its people to read their own language. long period of history, stepped to the The Bible Society works with de­ front during and following World War nominational missionaries on the re­ II, when Britain’s econom y was so spective fields to give technical advice severely upset. Today it would be and financial assistance when one of difficult to say which of these two these projects is undertaken. societies has the greater influence; Also the Scriptures used on the in fact, few would think of asking the respective mission fields are made question. The two societies work to­ available through these Bible Soci­ gether throughout the world, each eties. Japan, India, Spanish America, implementing the work of the other, Syria, Korea, Italy are some of the one coming to the aid of the other major ones. Our missionary work where specific emergencies arise. would be at a standstill if it were not The church should see the work for the Scriptures made available to that these societies are doing in the us by these societies. world. Pastors in particular should 2. But those with no Bible in their see clearly just what is the relation­ tongue are not the only ones to whom ship to these societies of both his the Bible is lost. There is also that denomination and his local church. great group who cannot read, not At the point of support, of course, the because they have no books, not be­ churches in the nations of the British cause they have not yet learned to Commonwealth contribute to their read, but because they have no eyes respective branches of the British and with which to read. Hence, the Bible Foreign Bible Society. Churches in Societies have felt the urgency of the-.-United States and her territories providing Scriptures for the blind. contribute to the American Bible They have done so in two levels of Society. In essence, the work of these Braille, the Moon System and on societies is the same. Let us see Talking Book Records. And this serv­ briefly what is the scope of this work ice has gone beyond English. Steps and in particular see what is the re­ have been taken to provide Scriptures lationship of our own denomination for the blind in other languages. to it. 3. But translating is only a part. 1. The Bible Societies, first of all, The Bible Societies also print these are concerned with translating the Bibles, Testaments, and portions in Scriptures into the languages of the order to make them available to those people. While it may appear that for whom they were intended, at the the Ij084 languages into which por­ lowest possible cost. Without doubt, tions of the Bible are now translated is this policy of the Bible Society about the end of this task, and it does through the years has greatly in­ touch the languages of about 95 per fluenced the low price of Bibles

6 (534) The Preacher's Magazine around the world. In fact, there is a tact, encouraging people to read the Bible within reach of most of the Word of God. Our people benefit world’s millions, a portion of God’s from this. Our part in the Bible Soci­ Word at a price they can pay. The ety helps those we could never touch, 0/ble is not a rich man’s Book alone; to read God’s Word. it is for the poor as well, thanks to The Bible Society, and the the diligent efforts through the years American Bible Society in particular, of the Bible Societies. has taken steps to keep close to the 4. The Bible Societies spearhead a churches, recognizing that theirs is a world-wide Bible distribution plan. task which specifically relates to the Our churches in America, our mis­ denominations. The American Bible sionaries, along with special Bible Society has one secretary with the Society colporteurs, are pioneering in sole responsibility of cultivating the every area where there is a need for interest of the churches. They also the Word of God. This is not to just have created an Advisory Council to one specified group but to all races which representatives of more than and peoples. fifty denominations come once a year. The Bible Societies have histor­ Before this council the secretaries ically taken the responsibility of pro­ carefully report on their work, out­ viding New Testaments (and Bibles line their plans, and give detailed on request) for men andjyomen in reports of all finances. The secre­ military service. These are supplied taries and Board of Managers care­ to the-chaplains and are distributed to fully weigh any suggestions made by all servicemen who do not have a this council. Testament and who will receive one. These Bible Societies are the minds, We can be confident that no service the hearts, the feet, the hands of the fellow is farther away from the Word Christian churches to get the Word of God than his nearest chaplain. of God to all the peoples of the world Former Chief of Chaplains Bennett —to do the job Christian love would says: ‘^Thirty-eight millio^i N ew Testa­ demand we ourselves do if there were ments have been given foservicemen no such agencies in existence. since the first one was given. If these men were lined up, with the chaplains There are other groups engaged in who gave each one, and if we were some phase of Bible work. Some of to inspect the column, it would take these are bona fide, some are not. 100 hours in a modern stratocruiser But at best, these operate only in a to see them all.” limited area, with a specific task in mind. Because of the complete cov­ The Bible Society makes available erage of the British and Foreign and to each newly organized church, on American Bible Societies, more than request of the presiding district or fifty Protestant denominations have conference leader, a pulpit Bible. selected these as the official agencies Many churches throughout America to represent their denominations in have used their pulpit bibles for years. the broad, over-all task of translat­ 5. The Bible Societies also spear­ ing, printing, and distributing the head a Bible-reading program. In Word of God. Bible Sunday, the the United States there is the Thanks- second Sunday in December, is f^ping-to-Christmas emphasis, th e the time when many churches make yearly Bible reading list, radio, TV an opportunity to share financially in films, posters, mail, and personal con­ this co-operative task.

Decem ber, 1955 (535) 7 The Preaching of John Huss

By James McGraw"

■RTJa r t i n L u t h e r w r o t e , “ W hen I the Nazarene. He saw, during those ^ was at Erfeert I found in the days of his prominence in Prague, library of the convent a volume of the that the claims of universal power on sermons of John Huss. On reading, the part of the papacy were contra­ I was overwhelmed with astonish­ dictory to the statement of Christ, ment. I could not understand for what “My kingdom is not of this world.” cause they had burnt so great a man, As would be expected in view of the who explained the Scriptures with so usual pattern of such things, Huss much gravity and skill.” was banned from all the churches in The man to whom Luther paid this Prague except two, and was later tribute was born of peasant Bohemian exiled. parents in July of 1369, and chose It was during his exile that his his own surname from the town of his preaching and his writing achieved a birth, Hussinec. The earliest reliable peak of intensity and effectiveness. information concerning his life dates We note some of the distinguishing to his scholarship in the University of characteristics of his pulpit power, Prague, where he received the degree hoping his example will inspire emu­ of Bachelor of Free Arts in 1393, and lation among preachers of our time. within the following three years the degrees of Bachelor of Theology and Master of Arts. He later taught at the S i n c e r i t y university, became the dean of its Dr. A. S. London has often re­ philosophical faculty, and achieved minded his readers that “sincerity” fame as its much loved rector and is one of the greatest virtues of the spiritual leader. Christian. It is, he says, derived from John Huss is rem em bered as a a word that literally means “without witness and a martyr. The word wax,” or without any of the veneer martyr, as we use it today, “one who that might cover or modify the genu­ dies for a cause,” formerly meant ine. In John Huss, there is one of “witness.” It gained its present mean­ the fine examples of this quality of ing when many early Christians “testi­ character. His preaching was sincere. fied” to their convictions by dying for When Huss spoke, piety and sin­ them. In the ministry of John Huss, cerity breathed through his words, the Bohemian, we have an excellent and the people were moved. His example of Christian witness and glowing zeal for the glory of God Christian martyrdom. impressed those who listened to him Huss drew upon himself the dis­ preach. In his personal conduct, even favor of Rome when he, like Luther, his enemies could find nothing to spoke out against the things he found blame. Admirable as were his in­ to be at variance with the teachings of tellectual qualities, his moral qua^~ ties were even more distinctive of

*Professor, Nazarene Theological Seminary. his Christlike character.

8 (536) The Preacher's Magazine S y s t e m a t i c the effect of skillful appeal, tactful suggestion, and stimulating demand. Huss had the fortunate and desir­ able quality of orderly and system­ During the increasing tensions that atic thinking habits, and this con- surrounded him in those last days of tSJiuted significantly to the success his fruitful ministry, he declared of his ministry. While many people boldly: “I avow it to be my purpose of his day seemed to be content with to defend the truth of the Holy Scrip­ superficiality, Huss went to the roots tures, even to death, since I know that of things, where ignorance and the truth stands and is forever mighty knowledge part company. He was and abides eternally; and with Him thorough in whatever he undertook, there is no respecter of persons. And and he undertook whatever he if the fear of death should terrify me, thought would please God and ad­ still I hope in my God and in the vance His kingdom. assistance of the Holy Spirit that the Lord will give me firmness. And His study habits during his formal if I have found favor in his sight he education, and his desire for knowl­ will crown me with martyrdom” edge and understanding which re­ (italics mine). ceived its fulfillment during his days The brand of boldness Huss had as a brilliant student in Prague, con­ was the kind that expected opposi­ tinued to characterize his attitudes tion, welcomed it, and accepted the as he developed his ministry. His suffering and death that were pos­ intellectual power was recognized by sible by-products of it. A preacher all who heard him, even as it im­ like John Huss would apparently not pressed Martin Luther when he read be unduly impressed by negative his sermons more than a century votes, nor by defiant deacons, critical later. It is interesting to note that “Christians,” or bullying board mem­ while distinguished scholars attended bers. his church in large numbers, and were thrilled by his preaching, the com­ S c r ip t u r a l a n d D o c t r in a l mon people also looked upon him as John Huss was dramatic in his use their champion and defender. Peas­ of illustrations, but he was not an ants and royalty alike were to be entertainer. His popularity in Prague found among his listeners. Is there would not have developed through anything that could be said of his sensational appeals nor superficial preaching that could be more signifi­ sentimentality. The people came in cant than this, in describing its effec­ great numbers to listen to the preach­ tiveness and its influence? ing of this man because his preaching was Christ-centered, and it was Bibli­ F e a r l e s s cal. John Huss was bold to proclaim James Farris, studying the life and his faith, and unafraid to defend it. ministry of Huss, observed that in Papal bulls did not intimidate him. some 35 letters Huss wrote there were Threats and abuses did not turn him 172 references to Scriptures. He dis­ from his steadfast position, and storms covered that 18 books in the New of ecclesiastical criticism did not veer Testament and 10 in the Old Testa­ him away from his purpose. He knew ment were quoted; and that there Ijgiw to be tactful, yet he never were 149 quotations from the New vacillated when under pressure. To Testament and 23 from the Old Testa­ read some of his sermons is to feel ment.

Decem ber, 1955 (537) 9 Preaching that is saturated with tioner to burn him, and they branded scripture and sound in Biblical doc­ him an arch heretic, and devoted his trine will have tremendous effect soul to the devils in hell. upon those who hear it, especially He faced eastward as they tied him when presented by a man whose heart to the stake, but they turned hY'n is burning with love for Christ, whose westward, thinking it improper for a mind is trained and active in straight heretic to die facing the east. thinking and adequate knowledge, While the flames leaped about his and whose life is above reproach and body, John Huss cried, “O Christ, beyond blame. Thou Son of the living God, have mercy upon us!” Someone watching W o r d s a n d A c t io n s was heard to say, “What this man Those who like the popular and hath done before, we know not; but indeed valid saying, “I would rather now we hear him put up excellent see a sermon than hear one,” or prayers to God.” “What you are speaks so loudly I Some men are gifted at saying cannot hear what you are saying,” words that sound great, and others would esteem the preaching of John cannot seem to express themselves Huss. He spoke the truth, and he put in words and yet they demonstrate his words into actions. with their actions that they have Faced with the choice of recanting found the truth. John Huss died with or burning, he stood before an evil the flames smothering the last bit of council with all the strength that re­ life from his body, and in so dying mained in his body, that was weak he put into actions the words he had from imprisonment and disease, and so eloquently spoken: “I am glad to he would not recant nor change his wear this crown of infamy, for the position. love of Him who has worn one of The council ordered the execu­ thorns.”

This Is Today Today is here. I will start with a improve myself, for tomorrow I may smile, and resolve to be agreeable. be wanted, and I must not be found I will not criticize. I refuse to waste lacking. my valuable time. Today I will not imagine what I Today has one thing in which I would do if things were different. know I am equal with others—time. They are not different. I will make All of us draw the same salary in success with what material I have. seconds, minutes, hours. Today I will stop saying, “If I had Today I will not waste my time, be­ time,” for I never will “find time” for cause the minutes I wasted yesterday anything—if I want time I must take are as lost as a vanished thought. it. Today I refuse to spend time worry­ Today, I will act toward other ing about what might happen. I am people as though this might be my going to spend my time making things last day on earth. I will not wait fg? happen. tomorrow. Tomorrow never comes.— Today I am determined to study to Heart and Life.

10 (538) The Preacher's Magazine OF THE MONTH

Principles of Pardon

By Doyle C. Smith*

S c r ip t u r e : Mic. 7:18-20; Isa. 55:7 tentiary as a life-termer—until that

T e x t : . . . The good Lord pardon great day that he was issued a parole every one that prepareth his heart and walked out of that dreadful, to seek God (II Chron. 30:18-19a). doleful place of darkness to face the sunlight of a new day, and to thrill I ntroduction : to the sensation of being a free man. The words of my text are borrowed Or better still, ask the man who was from a brief prayer of one of Judah’s once a vile and vicious sinner, held greatest kings. It was during the fast in the mire of his transgressions, observance of Passover in the time stumbling and groping in the mid­ of Judah’s great religious revival and night of spiritual darkness, slavishly reformation that King Hezekiah serving the devil and the lusts of the prayed this prayer, “The good Lord flesh, sinning against God and heaven, pardon every one that prepareth his condemned to eternal death—until heart to seek God”; a prayer to which that glorious day that God, through God hearkened in behalf of the peo­ Christ, reached down and plucked ple for whom supplication was made. him as a brand from the burning, and The word “pardon” suggests a very said to him, “Thy sins, which were beautiful sentiment and conveys a many, are forgiven. Go and tell what strong meaning. But like many other great things the Lord has done for words, it has been given to such com­ you.” Such a person may not be a mon use that I fear it has lost a great Webster in defining words, but as deal of significance for us. In its most a newborn soul he can tell you the common use today it is no more than meaning of pardon. a conventional form of apology. In Let us note the principles of par­ its civil use a pardon remits an offense don: and releases the offender. The moral and spiritual suggestion of pardon is I. P a r d o n P r e s u p p o s e s P e n it e n c e . the comprehension of divine remis­ A. Whether the pardon is issued by sion of transgression and the forgive­ a governor to a criminal or by God to ness of the transgressor. In no other a sinner, there must be evidence of a relation is the word used in the Scrip­ penitent spirit. No governor or parole tures. board can be prevailed upon to issue If you want to know the real mean­ a pardon to a man if they aren’t con­ ing of pardon, ask the criminal who vinced that he is remorseful over his been locked behind bars of the crime, and that his repentance is of inner confines of some federal peni- the depths that would change his

’"Pastor, Asheville, North Carolina. career from crime to citizenship.

D ecem ber, 1955 (539) 11 B. God never issues a pardon to confesseth and forsaketh them shall an impenitent sinner. Repentance have mercy.” always precedes remission of sins. D. While penitence precedes par­ God demands godly sorrow, a broken don, it is not pardon itself. Both are and contrite heart. “The Lord is nigh necessary for man’s salvation. unto them that are of a broken heart; Across the river Zambesi, below and saveth such as be of a contrite the Victoria Falls, is a bridge which spirit” (Ps. 34:18). David again spans the widest chasm and overlooks realized the need of contrition; for, the most terrific turmoil of waters to in his penitential psalm when he was be seen on any river in the world. seeking forgiveness for his awful sins That bridge was made by building of murder and adultery, he said, “The out an arm from either shore and sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; uniting the two outstretched arms a broken and a contrite heart, O God, in the center over the roaring stream. thou wilt not despise.” Neither arm could have reached the C. So, when we ask for pardon, opposite bank by itself; the two were whether it is to a person for a mere needed to meet each other. Such are breach of etiquette or whether to penitence and pardon, which form God for a breach of divine law, it is the bridge across that tumultuous assumed that we realize guilt and are stream and those stupendous falls really penitent. which seem to separate the soul from Jesus said, “Blessed are the poor God. At first one is inclined to say, in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of “Why cannot the bridge of pardon heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: be thrown over exclusively from the for they shall be comforted.” side of God?” Others perhaps are In a certain penitentiary where tempted to say, “Surely the bridge several criminals awaited execution, a of penitence will span the chasm and minister was asked to come and bring the soul to God.” But, no, the recommend to the governor one of truth lies here: pardon without peni­ the prisoners for pardon, the one who, tence is impossible, and penitence in the minister’s opinion, was the most without pardon is useless. worthy of a pardon. The minister II. P a r d o n P r o c u r e s P e a c e . went from cell to cell talking with the individual criminals. One after an­ A. Peace is that rare blessing that other was very bitter—criticizing his all men desire, but few possess. Sin country, vilifying the law, sneering has locked humanity behind the bars at justice, claiming frame-ups as being of guilt and condemnation—producing responsible for his imprisonment. a life of bondage, and under the sen­ Finally, the minister came to the cell tence of eternal death there can be of one who wept bitterly; he had no no peace. “There is no peace, saith defense to make; he admitted his my God, to the wicked” (Isa. 57:21). crime, and seemed very penitent and Man was made for peace; for peace remorseful; confessing his sin against is the fruit of freedom, and God in­ God and society, he acknowledged tended that man should be free. that he deserved the sentence placed Bondage genders strife, misery, and upon him. The minister immediately warfare. The prisoner, locked out called to the governor and said, “I from the free world about him and recommend this man for pardon.” locked in to the dark, monotonous The Bible said, “He that covereth his grind of prison life, knows no peace. sins shall not prosper; but whoso The sinner, barred by his sins, smit­

12 (540) The Preacher's Magazine ten by his conscience, imprisoned by meet the test and trial of probation his lustly appetities, enslaved by his here in this life; it does not give carnal fears, is a total stranger to license to throw aside moral restraint Pfeace. But let the prisoner receive and sin again. To abuse a pardon is mis parole, and the sinner accept his to nullify it and bring oneself right pardon, and theirs will be a peace that back into condemnation and sin. is akin to that of the celestial world. C. A pardon absolves a person of St. Paul said, “Therefore being justi­ all his sins of the past but certainly fied by faith we have peace with God it does not within itself uncondition­ through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Jesus ally atone for sins that may be com­ said, “Peace I leave with you, my mitted in the future. Man is on proba­ peace I give unto you.” “These things tion as long as he is in this life. Jesus have I spoken unto you, that in me ye said, “He that endureth to the end might have peace.” One of the won­ shall be saved.” And again, “No man, derful graces of the fruit of the Spirit having put his hand to the plough, is peace. and looking back, is fit for the king­ B. This peace of pardon is the peace dom of God.” II Pet. 2:20-22 and of knowing we are absolved of our Ezek. 3:20 certainly refute the doc­ sins. We are reconciled to God; on trine of unconditional eternal praying grounds and pleading terms security. with Him. No longer rebels and D. Pardoning grace frees us from enemies, but now friends and fol­ the sins of the past, awakens us to lowers. It is the peace of an intimate our moral trials and tests, and gives acquaintance and friendship with the us fellowship with Him who promises Lord Jesus. It is the peace of freedom victory for the present and future so from sin and fellowship with the long as we “ walk in the light, as he Saviour. is in the light.” C. Do you have the sweet peace of God’s forgiving and pardoning grace IV. P a r d o n ’ s P u r c h a s e P r ic e . in your heart and life just now? Can A. There is one word that names the you sing with the poet? price of pardon—sacrifice. Far away in the depths of my spirit tonight B. The criminal deserves imprison­ Rolls a melody sweeter than psalm; ment and the sinner deserves damna­ In celestial-like strains it unceasingly tion. To vindicate right, to hold to falls the letter of the law, and to execute O’er my soul like an infinite calm. justice the poor offender must pay for his crime; but just in the nick of Peace! Peace! Wonderfid peace, time vengeance is sacrificed for com­ Coming down from the Father passion, the letter of the law for the above! spirit, and justice for m ercy—-and the Sweep over my spirit forever, I pray, guilty is pardoned. Sacrifice paid the In fathomless billows of love. price. C. God’s law said, “The soul that III. P a r d o n P r o p o s e s P r o b a t i o n . sinneth, it shall die.” His law is ir­ A. A pardon is conditional. It does revocable, but, thank God, He had no not do away with probation or moral law against a sacrifice. Christ became <£rial and testing. that Sacrifice for our sins. On that B. A pardon provides its happy immortal day in Jerusalem when recipient with liberty to triumphantly Jesus was crucified, Bar abbas was

D ecem ber, 1955 (541) 13 released; set free, because Jesus took In 1830 George Wilson killed a man his place. Every redeemed soul is a while he was robbing the U.S. mail. Barabbas—sinful and condemned to He was tried and sentenced to be die till Jesus took his place. hanged. Andrew Jackson, then presi­ dent of the U.S., sent him a pardon. When Wilson refused the pardon, no C o n c l u s i o n : one seemed to know what to do. The Yes, God wants to freely pardon case was carried to the Supreme every sinner. He isn’t obligated to Court of the U.S. Chief Justice Mar­ keep calling to us; He has made the shall wrote the opinion for the case. provision to pardon us all, but the In it he said: “A pardon is a slip of majority of the world’s millions will paper the value of which is deter­ forever die and suffer eternal punish­ mined by the acceptance of the person ment—because God will not force a to be pardoned. If it is refused, it pardon on us, and it is not good and is no pardon. George Wilson must be efficacious to us unless we accept it. hanged.” And he was.

The Man, Christ Jesus

By S. C. Swinney*

“Behold the Man” (John 19:5)

he virgin birth of Christ (Luke was a Passenger on a ship; as God, He T1:35; Isa. 7:14) is said to be the walked on the waters without sinking. alpha of our Christian faith; His resur­ As a Man, He accepted an invitation rection, the omega of our faith. Pilate to a wedding feast; as God, He turned ascribed to Christ the name “man.” water into wine. Like other men, He He was both God and Man. shed tears; as God, He raised the dead, cleansed the leper, healed the broken­ As God, He is the world’s only hearted, and made the lame to walk, Rest. As a man, He grew tired. As the blind to see, cast out devils, and a Man, He was hungry. As God, He healed a woman of a disease of long fed thousands with a small amount of standing by her only touching the hem bread and a few fishes. As Man, He was hungry; as God, He is the Living of His garment. Water of eternal life. As a Man, He As a man He suffered, therefore He was tempted as we; as God, he lived was capable of sympathizing with a a sinless life. As a Man, He slept on suffering world. He was both God a ship; as God, He spoke and the and Man, made so to fulfill the eternal storm ceased, the angry lightning purposes of God. He sympathized ceased to flash, and the muttering with the sick, suffering, and dying. thunders roared no more. The people He was our great High Priest that were amazed and said, “What manner could be touched with our infirmities, of man is this, that the winds and for He had experienced all the suf** waves obey Him?” As a Man, He fering to which the human family is

*Genoa, Arkansas. subject.

14 (542) The Preacher's Magazine Gibrolfars of the Faith

By J. Kenneth Grider

II. The Gibraltar of Christian Devotional Life

Our Father which art in heaven. Hallowed he thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy ivill be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: for thine is the king­ dom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

■pvuRiNG H is e a r t h l y s o j o u r n Jesus prayer. Surely it has been the Gibral­ needed to pray—and did. Often tar of Christian devotional life—a He sought out the Father’s face while bulwark against devotional practices other men slept, keeping audience which would not be conducive to the with Almighty the whole night spiritual life, and a positive guide to through—the sinless God-Man com­ proper ones. muning with the Transcendent One. Its Opening. The ancient Jews were What blessed fellowship He had with instructed in solidarity to such extent His Heavenly Father! What strength that, when they prayed, even in pri­ He must have received for His trying vate, they were to use plural personal times! pronouns in order to remind them­ So Jesus knew how important it selves of their relatedness to other was—and is—for His followers to get Jews and in order to include the low before Heaven, there to worship others in the petitions they were mak­ and make petition. He therefore not ing. Even though we as Christians only set an example in prayer life, but do not have the racial solidarity of gave us a model after which we could the Jews, we still know that we are pattern our own prayer procedure. all bound together in the Invisible The prayer He taught us, a bit of Church—and thus in this prayer, glory written out, has been on our which is better for public use than for lips and in our hearts these nineteen private repetition, we are taught to centuries. The first-generation Chris­ use the plural pronoun our. tians used it often. Paul, for example, And it is to our Father that we probably alludes to it a number of address the prayer. What presump­ times, as in I Cor. 10:13. In the tion! In all the prayer intimacies that Didache, a manual of church order have come to us from David, we never dating at least to the middle of the hear him calling God his Father. second century, all Christians are Sometimes, however, in the Old enjoined to pray it three times a day. Testament, God is called Father. But And unlike the Apostles’ Creed, the in those days they did not pack so <^rreek Orthodox, as well as the Roman much into the term as we Christians Catholics and Protestants, use this do. For instance, Malachi meant by

^Professor, Nazarene Theological Seminary. the term only that God is Creator.

Decem ber, 1955 (543) 15 He queried, “Have we not all one what is necessary in order to keep father? hath not one God created alive day by day. We ask that the us?” (2:10). And Isaiah seems not Father might direct us, in order that to have meant much more by the we might avoid temptations and, if term (see chapter 63). But it was they flood in upon us, that we might prophesied, “Ye shall call me, My be kept from succumbing to Satan, father” (Jer. 3:19). And although the evil one (an alternative transla­ there were foretastes, this was not tion) . But between these two requests actually fulfilled until Christ revealed is one over which there has been God as loving and sympathetic and much difference of opinion. We pray h e 1 p f u 1—a n d this even toward the Father to forgive our debts—or Samaritans. our trespasses. Here is the part of the This Father is said to be in heaven. prayer which most needs clarification That is, He is separate from all that among our people. is earthly: independent of time and All of us know that Matthew re­ space, limitless in all His capacities. cords the Lord’s Prayer as we have Its Focus upon God. God’s name: come to know it, and that Luke gives His being and His attributes com­ a similar one. Of the two, E. F. Scott bined— it is asked that all this be says: “In substance they are in full hallowed or sanctified,1 set apart from agreement, . . .” :l Yet anyone can and above all else that touches our see differences. Luke’s is much lives. shorter, it does not give the closing It is also asked that the Father’s doxology, and it has sins instead of kingdom might come.2 Here it is de­ debts. Some sources consider the two sired that God might reign more prayers as two versions of what Jesus intensively— to greater degree; and said on one occasion, the variances more extensively—in the hearts of being partly explained by the fact men everywhere. that different persons had translated It is asked, also, that His will might what Jesus had said from the Aramaic be done by us men, here on earth, into Greek. Yet not all the differences even as it is done by the angels that can be explained in this way, so these surround His throne, worshiping and writers proceed to ask which is nearer serving Him continually. This is nec­ to what Jesus said—some suggesting essary if His kingdom is to come Matthew, and some Luke. E. F. Scott about. says, “ They [Matthew and Luke] Its Focus upon Ourselves. The seem to disagree as to the circum­ prayer also contains three requests in stances in which the prayer was which we ourselves have central place given.”4 If one considers, as Scott —but each of the three is asked only does, that the two prayers are differ­ that the Father, whose person we ent versions of what Jesus said on one sanctify, might accomplish His will occasion, he has to say that at least for us by reigning supremely in our one prayer is not correct and that one hearts. We pray for daily bread: for of the writers was actually wrong about the circumstances surrounding JThe word used is "hagiastheto," from "hagiadzo"— the common word for sanctify. This is an instance of use of the giving of the prayer. But these this word to signify separation instead of purification. The prayers are surely not two versions petition is not that God might be made holy, of course, but that to us He might be separated from all else— given a place of what Jesus said on one occasion. above all else. 2It is interesting that " . . . in Marcion's edition of Luke's Gospel, about the middle of the second century, 'Thy King­ dom come' appeared in this form: 'May thy holy Sp irit come upon us and cleanse us' " (E. F. Scott, "The Lord's Prayer," aIbid., p. 19. p. 26). 4 Ibid. 16 (544) The Preacher's Magazine At two different times, according to forgiveness of sins. But remembering the contexts, Jesus suggested similar that hamartias, the form of the word prayers. In the Sermon on the Mount, used in Luke, is understood by most probably close to the beginning of His scholars to include nonvolitional •ministry, He gave the prayer we use, shortcomings, it would be permissible recorded by Matthew (6:9-13). Later to use the prayer in Luke, using sins. in His ministry His disciples came to Its Close. In the King James Ver­ Him and asked that He teach them to sion one finds the doxology, . . : for pray even as John the Baptist had thine is the kingdom, and the power, done for his disciples—a procedure and the glory, for ever. Amen” (Matt. folk in those times expected of their 6:13). Many manuscripts, some of prominent teachers. The prayer He them from as early as the eighth cen­ then taught them is recorded by Luke tury,0 contain this liturgical close. (11:2-4). Moreover, some of the Fathers make Getting back to the important dif­ reference to it, although they vary in ference itself—the matter of debts, as the precise wording. And the Didache, in the prayer Matthew records; or written at some time between a .d . 80 sins, as in the one given by Luke— and the middle of the next century, which are we to use, debts or sins, which Clement of Alexandria even in­ when we repeat the Lord’s Prayer? cludes with the Scriptures, closes the For one thing, if Jesus’ precise prayer with: “ For thine is the power directives mean anything, it seems and the glory for ever.”7 So in Protes­ that either passage could be used; for tant circles we fittingly close the in Luke, Jesus told His disciples, prayer in this way. In doing so we “When ye pray, say, . . But also in assure God that all rule, in time and Matthew He directed, “After this throughout eternity—for ever and manner therefore pray ye: . . .” Yet ever—should come from Him, through from early times Christians have His power; and that our submitting favored the one in Matthew, obviously to His rule is not for our own glory because its greater smoothness and its but for His. measured rhythm make it more suit­ C. E. Simcox says the Lord’s Prayer able for use in public worship. is . . perhaps the most familiar thing The prayer in Matthew contains in our religion.”8 But often, since it the word debts. Some denominations is so familiar, it is repeated in parrot­ follow in general the prayer in Mat­ like fashion in public services. This thew, saying trespasses.In fact, this need not be so. Indeed, it must not has been the accepted form by many be so, for Jesus had the greatest of Protestant denominations. Our scorn for vain repetitions said with hymnals have always followed the no heart. Certainly we should en­ Matthew passage, reading, as re­ courage our people to use the Lord’s corded by Luke, “And forgive us Prayer and at the same time put real our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” heart into it. To those of us who preach that salva­ tion means a total break with sin, by which word we commonly mean will­ °AI I the extant early manuscripts of the New Testament omit this doxology. For this reason all the later English ful rebellion, it would be misleading versions leave it out. Adam Clarke, who had to work without the many manuscript finds of the last one hundred years, has jo direct our congregations in asking this to say: "The whole of this doxology is rejected by Wet- stein, Greisbach, and the most eminent critics. . . . It is variously written in several M SS., and omitted by most of the fathers, both Greek and La tin ." 5It could be supposed that "trespasses" is taken from the ^'International Critical Commentary," loc. cit. context of the prayer in Matthew. 8"Living the Lord's Prayer," p. viii.

December, 1955 (545) 17 Ministering to Special Needs

The Chronically III

By J. E. M oore, Jr.*

This month we are beginning a series of for them. They see too much of them- articles written by pastors covering the pastoral ministry to special needs in the congregation. selve and their own problems and After reading over som e of the first manuscripts not enough of the beauty and joys of to be received, your editor is confident this will life nor the sorrows and sickness of be an interesting and beneficial series.—Ed. others. They occupy almost all their picture of life and sometimes get an exaggerated idea of their own prob­ lems and ills. Many of them know 'T' h e c i t y of Tucson, Arizona, is that they will never get well. They populated with people from many know almost all the symptoms of the parts of the United States who came last stages of their own illness, which here for their health or for a lack of cause continued fear. They become it. People with almost every kind sensitive and get their feelings hurt of ailment come to Tucson. Because quite easily by friends and kinsfolk. of this, they are able to live here and After all, they are ill and have been are accepted and are not a cause for for so long a time. In some cases, they gaping by inquisitive “peepers” or are not able to think normally. They asked a hundred questions relative often get a bad case of self-pity, which to their illness. About 5 per cent of certainly does not help their chances my membership have the kind of ill­ of recovery. Some eventually lose ness for which there is no cure. They faith in the possibility of ever getting are what we call the “chronically ill.” well, and therefore lose faith in the Their diseases are deep-rooted, the doctors and nurses who are doing types that linger so long that they their best to effect their healing. drag them to their graves. They are some of the finest folks on earth and If these factors were their only come from all walks of life and from enemies, life would not be so com­ every part of the country. These peo­ plicated; but their physical illness ple are needy people. Their pastor has a tendency to cause some spirit­ must know them, know their needs, ual problems too. The enemy of their and know how to help them if he is souls tests them severely and often to be the shepherd which God needs accuses them of sinful practices; that for these—some of His choice children. their sins are the cause of their ill­ ness; that they are having to pay for The chronically ill persons are quite their sins by suffering. They forget different from almost any other sick that Christians cannot suffer for thehlM person. Life finally gets out of focus sins—they are forgiven and remem­

* Pastor, First Church, Tucson, Arizona. bered against them no more. Often

18 (546) The Preacher's Magazine the enemy takes advantage of their her place in about three weeks, she physical problems and tells them that pouts when I do come and it takes God has forsaken them, else they me about half my visit to get back in would get well. Old Split-foot can her good graces. 'eonjur up some pretty good scrip­ Mrs. White, a lady of about fifty- tures too. These people read about five, was injured by her drunken hus­ divine healing and listen attentively band, who ran over her with his to messages by radio “healers” who car, trying to get her out of the way, say that healing is in the atonement, so he could marry another woman. and if they have faith enough they She is cared for by her mother, who too can be healed. When they fail is about seventy-five. Mrs. White will to get well, their faith is hurt and not divorce her husband, even though some have even quit the church. I he comes home drunk most of the say that God does not have to heal time and causes her a lot of grief. you or me to prove His love. He She has a son who was C.I.C. during proved His love to us on Calvary. World War II and was decorated for One of the problems of the chron­ bravery. He was wounded a number ically ill is that they have too much of times and saw such horrible sights time to spend on themselves. They and endured so much that he is a often live and relive their lives and little different from most men. He get an “overdose” of introspection, so hates his stepfather so much that they that they become sensitive to people often get into fights, and I am called who are well, and read into innocent at three or four in the morning to remarks thoughts which cause them settle their fussing and fighting. Mrs. anguish of mind and soul. They once White also suffers from blackouts and lived normal and healthy lives, which nervous rigors. What can a pastor do gives them the opportunity to com­ in circumstances like these? pare and contrast their states of then Then there is, or was, Karl Strain, and now. This causes mental depres­ a tubercular, who was thirty-eight sion and “blues.” years of age and who recently passed on. Poor Karl—his wife left with a T h r e e III P e r s o n s young daughter when she found out To help make my ideas live—let’s that he had T.B., leaving him with a look at three such persons to whom crippled boy and an aged mother, I have ministered and am minister­ who was unable to work for a living. ing: a Mrs. James, a Mrs. White, and He lived in an old trailer next to Karl Strain (these are not their real his mother, who also lived in an names, of course). ancient model of a trailer on the out­ Mrs. James is bedfast due to a skirts of town. Their only source of serious heart condition. She is sixty- support was a small county welfare five, a widow of a man of wealth, has check. He had spent all he had on strong convictions, lives with her mar­ medicines and doctors, in which he ried daughter and son-in-law. She is now had little faith. He had one fear jovial and friendly but very sensitive. that obsessed him—that he would die She is starved for friendship and via the dreaded experience of lung spiritual food. She cannot get up for hemorrhage. In this condition, one fear of another stroke, so time weighs coughs and coughs and finally the ^heavily on her hands. She puts a blood gushes forth from adhesions circle on the calendar every time I in the lungs and he soon dies in his see her; and if I don’t get around to own blood. This he finally did. Karl

D ecem ber, 1955 (547) 19 liked for me to come and see him away to be married. I then knew the and read God’s Word and have prayer reason for some of the resentment for him. I always took him by the between her and the son-in-law. He hand while I prayed but, of course, I never had anything until he married washed my hands with soap and dis­ and had it given him by Mrs. James^ infectant soon after I left. Often a Also, Karl confided in me about his tubercular gets the feeling that folk life’s heartache, which was his broken think of them as an “outcast,” and I home. This often helped me to under­ did everything I could to let him stand his case and anticipate his needs. know that I loved him and was not Mrs. White never did tell me of her afraid of being around him. He often husband’s attempt to kill her, but it said that I treated him just like he came out by my listening to her many was a well person. conversations and by keeping tab on bits of information which I got from S o m e S u g g e s t io n s her. If I talk to them enough I can These three persons are representa­ find out their likes and dislikes, which tive of some of the types of chronically helps me, when their birthdays come ill persons that I as a pastor must try or at Christmas, to give them remem­ to help. This is the group which need brances which have meaning to them their pastor as few other groups do. and cause them happiness. We can and must do our best to make To understand them, you must visit their lives brighter and in some way them a bit differently from a “spot help them to strengthen their faith Sunday-school call.” After I have in our Heavenly Father. listened to them talk, I try to do some­ Here are a few methods I have used thing to boost their morale either by both as a chaplain and as a minister, a joke, a sincere compliment, or some­ which I humbly offer to you with the thing in my prayer that will be a lift hope that they may be of some benefit to them. They are often more childish in the most important of all work— than children, so remembering them that of dealing with eternal souls. does a lot for them. We often make It may seem trite to say that one one of our chronically ill persons the of the most important ways to help “member of the week” in our local the chronically ill is to know and church bulletin, which means that he understand them, but to do this cer­ will get many cards from many of the tainly takes more than a passing church faithful. We give the name hello and good-by. It means you must and address and say something from know them personally and understand the pulpit about his being the “mem­ the “whys” and “wherefores” of their ber of the week,” which brings a little cases. You could misunderstand and special attention to him. We also send be misinformed by “in-laws” and him the Home Department mail, thoughtless kinsfolk and neighbors. which includes the weekly bulletin, You will soon know much about them Herald, of Holiness, Sunday-school if you visit them and let them do the papers, and a personal note. (Don’t talking and tell you all about their send a mimeographed letter to him.) “cases.” They will tell you about These wonderful people will say their past—before they were ill, that some harsh things to me sometimes is. They are glad you are interested but I make it a practice never to in them. For instance, Mrs. James take them too seriously. Many o§ told me of her daughter’s marriage at their “digs” and pointed questions are sixteen and how the daughter ran not so bad as they sound. I may josh

20 (548) The Preacher's Magazine them about my being such a poor pas­ be the case at all. Let us be careful tor and tell them how much I need how we consign to God the things their faith and prayers for me. This that would put us in jail if we did along with my asking for some advice them. Remember, our Heavenly Usually ends their prodding. Often Father and His nature are not like they may have held places of responsi­ some ideas that some have had; for bility and are able to offer valuable He is our Heavenly Father, who can assistance. Regardless of whether I be trusted to do the wisest and best can use their advice or not, I flatter for you and me—under the circum­ them just by the asking for it. stances of a sinful nature and a sinful There are times when I talk to them world. about spiritual things. It is my ear­ Some of these wonderful people can nest desire to know their spiritual be of great assistance in the church welfare, for in all probability I will be by performing church jobs such as the one to officiate at their funerals. writing cards to visitors, absentees, Because they are unable to read and or using the telephone to contact pray as they once did, they are often church lists for various things such tempted to feel that they are not as announcing meetings. They are doing all of God’s will. If possible, we all urged to join the “Prayer Brigade” try to show them that they do not to bombard the skies. We try to have to read and pray like folk with make these folk see that they are good health, but theirs is to trust in valuable to the growth of the church their Heavenly Father, who knows and the cause of Christ. their heart condition. There is much to do for our chron­ It is also my responsibility to help ically ill. Y ou or I could be one of them see the reason for their con­ them in a moment of time. tinued existence even in their con­ dition. Books such as The Will of Christ’s benediction is upon us God, by Weatherhead, have helped when we do our best for them, for me in this regard, for some people He once said, “Inasmuch as ye have have done a lot of damage to people’s done it unto one of the least of these faith by saying, “Your illness is the my brethren, ye have done it unto will of God.” Actually, that may not

G uidance

I wish I could tell you how utterly Others with no mystic tendency, no I believe that God will completely psychic sensitiveness, may have no guide every life which is committed feeling of special guidance at all . . . to Him. The manner in which He does But this is the thing to be affirmed this will not matter so greatly. With in trumpet tones: Whoever is com­ all my heart I warn you not to be­ mitted to God is in some way guided lieve that you will have the same ex­ by Him. No matter how it is done, perience of guidance as I or anybody he may take the language of faith and &%se. Some have strange impressions, sing, “He leadeth me, Oh, blessed mystic illuminations, flashes of re­ thought!”—-A r t h u r W e n t w o r t h membered scripture in sudden crisis. H e w i t t .

D ecem ber, 1955 (549) 21 CRUSADE FOR S O U L S

Supplied by Alpin Bowes*

3. Some churches number on their rolls missionaries in other countries. The missionaries are too busy to be expected to write many letters back Q u e s t i o n : What can I do about the home, but they will appreciate news nonresident members on my church of the church in bulletins and other roll? thoughtful remembrances on birth­ days and other special occasions. A n s w e r : Members who no longer They should be aware that the church live in the community are still con­ has not forgotten to pray for them. nected with the church. It is only partly a problem of records. More 4. Often the largest group of non­ importantly, it involves the pastor’s resident members includes those who responsibility for the spiritual wel­ have moved away from the commu­ fare of the members in his care. nity, either to a distant part of the same city or to another town. It is 1. Those in the armed forces of our not always easy for those who have country are one group of nonresident been active in a community and a members. These usually have some church for many years to adjust to contact with a chaplain, but they need new surroundings, new friends, and to be tied in to their church back a new church situation. There is a home. They should be on the pastor’s tendency to take it easy for a while mailing list for bulletins, news-sheets, before accepting responsibility and and an occasional letter. The pastor obligations in a new church. may remind the laymen to write them, so they will realize they have not been The pastor of the church back home forgotten by the folks back home. is tempted to hold on to these non­ 2. There are also young people resident members as long as possible, away at college and others on tem­ for they boost his membership record porary assignments out of the city. and perhaps he can get them to send News from back home should reach a little tithe back to the church oc­ these regularly, and an occasional let­ casionally. Actually these people are ter from the pastor will be helpful in in greater need of the tender care of maintaining the contact with the a pastor as they make adjustments home church. If those who are away to new situations and faces. In their temporarily are out of reach of a first relationship in the new com­ Church of the Nazarene, the letters munity the church should be their from the pastor should be more fre­ first contact. The pastor back home quent, in order to bring counsel and must realize this and do his best to encouragement in Christian living to see that they become settled in a new those who are unable to attend church home as quickly as possible.^ church. Beyond this immediate moving

’“Secretary, Crusade for Souls Commission. situation there are those whose names

22 (550) The Preacher's Magazine are still on the records of one church while belonging to another because CRUSADE ECHOES the pastor where they now live neg­ lected to notify their former pastor 6<5f their acceptance into his church. She Accepted Christ All pastors should make it a policy to keep accurate records and to follow In an Iron Lung! through on all transfers.

More attention to our nonresident By Oscar F. Reed members and to membership records in our churches would save many churches from the necessity of dras­ We had prayed that the polio epi­ tically revising their membership rolls demic would not touch our young every time there is a change in pas­ people, and God mercifully answered tors. our prayer. However, Mrs. Bushert called one morning that her daughter was in an isolation ward and wanted to see me. Her daughter, [a woman H O W W E DID IT about thirty-five years of age,] lived some fifty miles east of Calgary on a wheat ranch. Evangelism should be central in After donning the mask and cape, the pastor’s emphasis during the I was ushered into a ward, in the Christmas season. It is a time when middle of which was an iron lung people are thinking of Christ and His with only Helen’s head appearing at mission to mankind. The church the one end. Following a few words should not only glory in His coming, of usual conversation, I said, “Helen, but extend an urging hand to those do you want to give your life to who do not know Him. Christ?” She answered softly with One pastor uses the month of Octo­ tears in her eyes, “I do.” “Are you ber and November in his visitation willing to commit your life to Him if program for the building of his re­ He touches you?” “Yes,” she said. sponsibility list—finding new people So I read those familiar words from and making new contacts for the First John. “If we confess our sins,” church. After Thanksgiving the visita­ and Helen did confess her sins to tion is beamed to bringing these peo­ Christ and accepted the Lord as her ple to the church and winning them Saviour. to Christ. The pastor teaches a class I walked from the hospital with my for new and prospective members for heart brimming with joy. This was several weeks before Christmas dur­ the compensation that God gives His ing the Sunday-school hour. This children. Is there a greater thrill than emphasis is climaxed with the recep­ to win a soul for Jesus Christ? tion of new members on Christmas Sunday. The pastor’s words in re­ The Crusade pays big dividends! ceiving new members carry an impact which makes a strong Christian wit­ The Pastor's Meditation ness to those who have come to church

D ecem ber, 1955 (551) 23 “Special Service” to Your Faithful Contributors

CONTRIBUTION RECEIPT FORM For Income Tax Deduction

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24 (552) The Preacher's Magazine For a More Joyful Christmas! Invitation Post Cards for Sunday School An attractive, colorful post card with friendly invitation to attend Sunday school at the Church oi the Nazarene. Per­ sonalize them with the name and address oi your church. It's worth the difference! No. SC189 Without Imprint: 100 for $1.50; 500 for $6.75; 1,000 for $12.50 W ith Imprint: 100 for $4.00; 500 for $9.00; 1.000 for $15.00 NOTE: To assure delivery on imprinting, order should be received by December 2.

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Decem ber, 1955 (553) 25 “QUEEN o f THE PARSONAGE”

Christmas in the Parsonage

By M ary E. W h ite*

T t w a s the Christmas season! Every like a real promise. Slipping to her year people thronged the stores, knees, she breathed a short prayer gay with their tinsel, and sound of straight toward the throne of God and Christmas carols played over and felt surprisingly light as she rose to over. answer the telephone and get the In the little parsonage in that city, baby, who had been awakened by its a minister’s wife counted the few ringing. cents she had barely been able to Many of you ministers’ wives can save toward gifts for the three chil­ guess the ending of this story, for dren, her husband, the host of rela­ you’ve found similar incidents in your tives and friends for whom she would lives. A note came the following week love to buy gifts. She longed to get saying the grandparents had decided that bicycle so expected by Ted, the to send money instead of buying gifts ten-year-old son. for the children. Would we get some­ Then there was Jean, the seven- thing for them that they really year-old, who really needed a new wanted? Two days before Christmas doll, for— “Mother, her arms are gone a last-minute sale revealed a bicycle and one rubber leg has a hole in it.” had been scratched in display and the And she thought of Baby Jill, just price was cut to nearly half. past three, whose eyes danced with Some friends of former years sent joy every time she passed the counter a box of gifts to the family in which where the big black and white panda a doll and lovely Teddy bear were stood. included. On Christmas Eve just be­ What should she do? Her heart fore closing time, a shop displayed a ached to give her children what they large table of various items all heaped wanted. Would it be right to go and together and a sign of “One Dollar” open a large charge account and try placed above it. From among many to pay it out monthly? She wasn’t types of merchandise, some soiled and sure she could make the payments. damaged, a young minister’s wife Should she try to find work outside pulled out a box in which she found the home and leave her babies to the a beautiful genuine leather billfold care of a teen-age baby sitter? and key ring set. It was the last set Prayer was the answer. Down of its kind and had found its way to through the years God had never the rummage counter just before the failed to give what was needed. As “queen of the parsonage” arrived. she opened her Bible, her attention Now Husband’s gift was provided^ was drawn to Matt. 7:11. It seemed Not only do we face the problem

^Pastor's wife, Lincoln, Nebraska. of small salaries in a time of inflation,

26 (554) The Preacher's Magazine but also the danger of allowing the as we can afford; and may I say, more pressure of outside church activities than once we found a Christmas tree to rob our homes and children of a on our front porch from an anony­ truly happy Christmas. Today I asked mous friend. The children always my son to tell me frankly if we had make paper chains and trinkets for let the pressure of outside Christmas the tree, even though in recent years activities of school and church destroy we could have bought them ready the Christmas spirit in our home. He made. Cookies and candy are made began to tell me of some of the beau­ especially for Christmas in which the tiful memories he has of our Christ­ daughters have a part; and a special mases together, and I thanked the centerpiece for the Christmas dinner Lord in my heart. can be styled by the children if they are guided. Every year except one during four­ teen years of being a pastor’s wife, I We have records of the famous have supervised a large children’s carols, which are played over and Christmas program. Many of those over, and when it comes time to carol same years I directed a Christmas on Christmas Eve there is no reluc­ pageant by the choir with practices tance. That’s all a part of the family every night the week before Christ­ Christmas. mas, but I believe with all my heart I agree the pressures of outside ac­ we have had as happy a Christmas tivities in such a busy season might atmosphere in our home as was pos­ tend to destroy the Christmas spirit sible. in the parsonage, but I don’t believe We make a display of all the Christ­ it will in ours or yours if we include mas cards, set up the same manger our children in everything possible scene we bought years ago and pack and keep “putting Christ back into away each season, trim as large a tree Christmas.”

My Prayer for You Our Father, we thank Thee for all Thy loving-kindness and tender mercies toward us, for Thy forbearance with our lack of wisdom and knowledge. Help us, O Lord, to fight the good fight of faith. May we cling to the ideals of our Christian faith and may we be able to discern the true from the false. As we face duty and responsibility, may we be impelled to accept them and carry through with them, however difficult the condition our ideals impose upon us. Help us to think of ideals in terms of integrity, courage, and a high sense of responsibility, not as something vague or fantastic. May we realize that we must not be submissive to evil, or passive toward it, but that we must be positive, willing to sacrifice and to suffer. Help us, O Lord, in all our relationships, that we may find the way to please Thee and to do Thy holy will. Teach us how to achieve a proper balance in all our activities, that we may produce the best possible results in bringing our lives into the full measure of strength, power, joy, and peace promised to Thy children. Amen. Mrs. R .T. Williams, Sr. Bethany, Oklahoma

Decem ber, 1955 (555) 27 Positive and Negative Preaching

By Bernie Smith*

a n y a r e a s of the Pauline Epistles gospel and creates a hunger for the are marked by a positive note. exalted Christ. They are not the theories of an idle I was preaching in a certain city- theologian. As you read them, they wide campaign. One night after serv­ seem to burn with unquenchable fire. ice, one of the co-operating ministers As you read the writings of the asked to visit me the following day. fiery missionary, you hear the beating He apparently had been hesitant to of a heart filled with praise, feel the join the union crusade, but eleven stirring of a soul totally abandoned other churches of his denomination to God, see a life burned out for were co-operating, so he joined them. Christ, and sense a voice of revealed He confessed that he had not been authority crying with the weeping preaching against the background of a prophet, “His word was in mine heart personal experience of grace. “Your as a burning fire shut up in my bones preaching troubles me,” he said. “You . . . ” (Jer. 20:9). speak with such certainty about a Paul preached with the authority definite experience of salvation. That of a positive revelation. “But I cer­ is something I never had—but I want tify you, brethren, that the gospel it.” I read and reasoned and prayed which is preached of me is not after with him, and I believe God came to man. For I neither received it of the rescue of that hungry heart. A man, neither was I taught it, but by positive message, reinforced by posi­ the revelation of Jesus Christ” (Gal. tive witnessing, had brought him to 1:11-12). the foot of the Cross. Paul’s positive preaching was mag­ T h e P o w e r o f P o s i t i v e P r e a c h i n g netic. Men of high and low estate Positive preaching has great per­ heard him. They could cast aside his suasive power. It affords no room for culture and eloquence, but not that halfheartedness or lukewarm uncer­ unrelenting inner spiritual drive, that tainties. Positive preaching cries out positive message of the resurrected with Sinai certainty proclaiming the Lord. message of Christ to persuade men. It would seem safe to declare that The Pauline pattern of positive the positive preaching of Paul not preaching was persuasive. Paul had only determined individual destinies, no “cunningly devised fables,” no but affected the course of human his­ messages for “itching ears.” With tory. W ithout it, the Christian Church positive assurance, he constantly could have become another small sect, preached the Cross, the risen Christ, buried in oblivion, confined to a small and His transforming power. geographical area. Paul spread the Positive preaching has magnetic message of Christ more than any other power. It draws rather than drives. apostle, and apparently was the onl%' It emphasizes the plus side of the one to establish churches to preserve

* Evangelist. the work.

28 (556) The Preacher's Magazine T h e N e ed f o r N e g a t iv e P r e a c h in g must guard against unconsciously be­ No thinking person could deny the coming religious dictators, declaring as it were how many sticks one may need for negative preaching. The pick up in a given day. Such a min­ i/“vistry of Christ, as well as Paul’s, istry is unbalanced and overweight— would corroborate that fact. God’s unbalanced by well-meaning but dis­ prophet is to cry out against the sins torted ideas, and overweight with the of the day. He must warn men against negative approach. Some may try taking excursions into forbidden areas to justify such preaching by saying of life. Not only must he denounce that most of the commandments are the so-called “popular sins”; he should negative. If all negative preaching denounce the so-called “small sins” of were restricted within the pale of jealousy, place-seeking, and gossip. divine negations, no one would chal­ He should warn men against becom­ lenge its authenticity. But if one ing walking repositories of gossip who should build a fence around a forest specialize in rumors when they run of untenable notions and post signs short of facts. These sins are just as of warning declaring they are applic­ odious to the nostrils of God. able to universal Christian experience The ministry should remind men —what then? There is a danger for that they can’t laugh sin out of their one to take this attitude and declare lives, for sin is no laughing matter; that he has the final word and all they can’t hide sin behind culture or else is heresy. There is a danger in finery; they can’t run from it, for it taking the attitude that no one can will haunt them to the end; they can’t get on his ground unless he agrees; belittle or excuse it, saying it is all to him to disagree is to trespass, and right in their instance; for sin is to trespass is to transgress. wrong—and there is no right way to This very attitude reveals the in­ do a wrong thing. Only Christ can herent weakness. Truth is truth and meet the need. Only He can save and does not need to be surrounded by a cleanse. fence of fear. Truth rests on its own While negative preaching is needed, foundation, and it will not crumble it can become dangerous if the method before the theories of men. is abused. Negative preaching, like positive preaching, must be saturated in prayer and clothed with a right C o n c l u s io n spirit. Abused negative preaching God has seen fit to win men can lead men to a wrong concept of through preaching. Thus He has called God, and that can lead to spiritual men for this serious task. He has hypochondria. We who love souls called them to preach the full gospel, must be interested in helping men with both the positive and the nega­ find spiritual stability rather than tive approaches. Every called man spiritual frustration. Our ultimate must answer for his own ministry. purpose is not to get individuals to Let us strive toward a ministry that an altar for no other reason save to will make each a “workman that have a host of uncertain seekers; our needeth not to be ashamed”; a min­ ultimate purpose, our high goal must istry that will call men from the be to win souls to Christ. things of the world to the foot of the r f e must guard against forming a Cross; a ministry that will challenge preaching pattern which follows holy living; a ministry wholly accept­ closely the weave of the Talmud. We able unto God.

Decem ber, 1955 (557) 29 Sermon Subjects for December

From the Editor

Isaiah 9:2, 6-7

Subjects Scriptures

1. F r o m D a r k n e s s t o L i g h t 1. v . 2, The people . . . have seen a great light. 2. T h e L i g h t o f H o p e f o r a D y i n g 2. v . 2, They that dwell in .. . the W o r l d shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined. 3. A C h i l d o f P r o m is e 3. v . 6, For unto us a child is born

4. G o d ’ s S o n I s M a n ’ s H o p e 4. v . 6, Unto us a son is given. 5. T h e K i n g o f t h e K in g d o m 5. v . 6, And the government shall be upon his shoidder: . . .

6. T h e N a m e o f J e s u s 6. v . 6, And his name shall be called

7. W o n d e r f u l 7. v . 6, . . . W onderful 8. C o u n s e l o r 8. v. 6, . . . Counsellor 9. T h e M i g h t y G od 9. v . 6, . . . The mighty God 10. T h e E v e r l a s t in g F a t h e r 10. v . 6, . . . The everlasting Father 11. T h e P r in c e o f P e a c e 11. v . 6, . . . The Prince of Peace 12. T h e E t e r n a l K in g d o m 12. v. 7, Of the increase of his gov­ ernment and peace there shall be no end. 13. Power to Perform the Promise 13. v . 7, The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

P o w e r o f t h e B ib l e One soldier confessed that when cigarette paper was scarce he used pages from his New Testament. He said he smoked through Galatians, but beyond that point found enough of the “lively oracles of God” to save him.

B ib l e —M i s u s e o f In Haiti there has been found a strange combination of voodoo and Christianity. The natives take a portion of scripture which speaks of Jesus healing blindness—tear out that page and bind it over af­ flicted eyes. Or they brew tea from shredded pages of the Scriptures and drink the potion for a stomach-ache.

30 (558) The Preacher's Magazine SERMON WORKSHOP

Contributed by Nelson G. Mink+

T h o u g h t s f o r U n i v e r s a l B ib l e S u n d a y C h r i s t m a s M e d i t a t i o n s “The only objection against the Bible The Calendar of God: “When the ful­ is a bad life.”—Wilmont, an infidel, dy- ness of time was come, God sent forth [ing. his Son” (Gal. 4:4). “England has two books, the Bible and Foregleams of Christmas: “ I shall see Shakespeare. England made Shake­ him, but not now ...” (Num. 24:17). speare, but the Bible made England.” The Bethlehem of the Heart: “Until —V i c t o r H u g o Christ be formed in you” (Gal. 4:19). “Here is a Book, the Bible, worth more than all others that were ever G o d ’ s G r e a t G i f t printed; yet it is my misfortune never A man once, on a wager, stood on to have found time to read it.”—P a t r i c k London Bridge for a whole day trying H e n r y , near death. to give away golden sovereigns, and only two persons would accept them. “The Bible is the sheet-anchor of our Equally foolish is the world in refusing liberties. Write its principles upon your the greatest Gift of all—God’s Christmas hearts and practice them in your lives.” Gift (Selected). — U . S . G r a n t . General Marshall: “If I were to have Queen Victoria: “Oh, that Jesus would my way, I would take the torch out of come while I am in life, so that I could the hand of the Statue of Liberty and with my own hands present Him with in its stead place an open Bible” the crown of England and the Empire (Selected). of India.”

A l l o f T h i s i n O n e S m a l l P a c k a g e : F o r t h e B u l l e t i n B o a r d A young Christian packing his bag for “Dignity is one thing that can’t be a journey said to a friend, “I have nearly preserved in alcohol.” finished packing. All I have to put in “The man who cannot be angry at are: a guidebook, a lamp, a mirror, a evil lacks enthusiasm for good.” microscope, a telescope, a volume of fine poetry, a few biographies, a pack­ “It lightens the stroke to draw near age of old letters, a book of songs, a to Him who handles the rod.” sword, a hammer, and a set of books I “Be more desirous of meeting God have been studying.” in your troubles than of getting out of “But you cannot put all that into your them.” bag,” objected the friend. “Much depends on the way we come “Oh, yes,” said the Christian. “Here into trouble. Paul and Jonah were both it is.” And he placed his Bible in the in a storm, but the circumstances were corner of the suitcase and closed the quite different” (Anon). UQ Clarence Darrow: “I have never killed —Bible Society Record a man, but I have read many obituaries

'■'Pastor, Oxford, Pennsylvania. with a lot of pleasure.”

Decem ber, 1955 (559) 31 C r y i n g a n d T e a r s Illustrations Sir Alexander Fleming, the English I A m t h e B ib l e scientist, has proved that human tears are efficient microbe killers. One tea­ I speak every language and enter spoonful of tears would give enouT'' every corner of the earth. antiseptic power to 100 gallons of water. I bring information, inspiration, and Many a distinguished physician has recreation to all who heed my words. given it as his opinion that all of us should cry occasionally for our health’s I treat all persons alike, regardless sake (Selected). of race, color, creed, or condition.

I have power to stretch man’s vis­ ion, to deepen his feeling, and to en­ Sentences That Sing rich his life. Contributed b y Shelburne Brown* I am a true friend, a wise counselor, “ . . . he walks up the stairs of his and faithful guide. concepts into a wonder-world of I am the Bread of Life with the thought.”—J. W a l l a c e H a m i l t o n . message of salvation for every lost “ . . . something began happening in s o u l. the back streets of the cities that ulti­ mately shook the mighty Roman Em­ I am the Bible. pire.—J. W a l l a c e H a m i l t o n . —S e l e c t e d “Unbelief accused God of uttering counterfeit coin in the moral currency T h e H a r v e s t i s R i p e of the universe.”— W. E. S a n g s t e r . It was a beautiful day in July with “ . . . answerable to no man at sun­ the sun shining brightly. As we were set.” “ . . . a Pharisee with built-in driving along the road we were com­ selfishness.”—C. G o r d o n B a y l e s s . menting on the crops which were ready “The cross has become God’s official for harvest. We noticed a man busy bulletin board.”— T h e o d o r e H u g g e n v i k . shining his car in the shade of a large tree in the barnyard. Across the fence, “ . . . too much of the gentleman to not thirty feet away, was his field of be a man, too sophisticated to be sen­ wheat, ready for cutting. He should have sible, too learned to be wise.” been busy harvesting and not busy shin­ “Some remain young. Every glare of ing his car. We looked to the south and red in the sky is a fire, and they are off saw the storm clouds rolling. He had to find it.”—A. J. G o s s i p . waited too long to do the most important. “Pessimism—that knows the reins Are we busy shining our cars while the have broken in God’s hands.” day of harvest passes? “Faith is not a camp-follower of the ■—By Albert O. Loeber, Pastor lumbering army of science. It is the Raleigh, N.C. reconnaisance plane. It goes ahead. It sees in wholeness.”—W. E. S a n g s t e r . Carlyle, concerning his wife. “ She was A n I m p o s s i b l e C h o i c e the rainbow to my dripping years.” A teacher had just related to the class Sarcasm of the month. “A word of of boys the story of the rich man and advice to parents: If your boy comes Lazarus; then he asked, “Now, which home from school using bad words, don’t would you rather be, boys—the rich punish him; develop the talent in him. man or Lazarus?” H e may make a fortune someday as *■*. One boy replied: “I’d like to be the successful writer of “realistic” litefS- rich man while I’m living and Lazarus ture.”—J. W a l l a c e H a m i l t o n . when I die.”—Way of Holiness. ^District Superintendent, Los Angeles District.

32 (560) The Preacher's Magazine PREACHING PROGRAM

December 4, 1955 Morning Subject: DIVINE CONDESCENSION

S c r ip t u r e : Psalms 8:1-9; T e x t : Job 7:17 I ntroduction : The text is a question that is both answerable a n d unanswerable. I. T h e S c r ip t u r a l A n s w e r t o t h e Q u e s t i o n A. Man— a creature (1) Modified dust (Gen. 2:7). (2) He is grass (Isa. 40:6-7). (3) A drop of the bucket (Isa. 40:15). (4) Vanity (Job 7:16; Isa. 40:17). B. Man—a fallen creature (1) Guilty (Rom. 3:23). (2) Ignorant (Isa. 1:3). (3) Con­ demned (John 3:18-19). (4) Polluted (Job 15:16; Isa. 1:16). (5) Rebellious (Num. 20:13; Isa. 1 :2 ). II. I n W h a t R e s p e c t s t h e L o r d M a g n i f i e t h M a n A. In creation 1. In the image of God—the moral image. (a) Power of reflection; (b) power of choice; (c) given dominion over all lower creation. 2. In divine providence. B. In redemption 1. The Redeemer became man. a. Dignified the human body, human nature, human re­ lationships. b. Gave meaning to human suffering. 2. God redeemed the whole man. a. The soul, the body. — F r ed R e e d y

Evening Subject: HE GATHERED SINNERS

S c r ip t u r e : Luke 19:1-10; T e x t : Verses 5 & 10 I ntroduction : A. Jesus, the Iconoclast—Breaker of traditions. (1) Sought sinners; (2) Ate with sinners. B. Jesus—Lover of souls, Hater of sin. I. J e s u s S a w M e n ’ s P ossibilities , N o t T h e i r P redicaments . A. (1) Zacchaeus, (2) Matthew, (3) Mary Magdalene, (4) and even Judas. B. Jesus was never influenced by racial, political, economic, or religious differences; every man of intrinsic worth to Him. II. F o r J e s u s —N o M a n W a s T o o F a r G o n e . A. Judas at the Last Supper. B. The thief on the cross. C. Peter denying Him. C o n c l u s i o n : A loving God, a seeking Saviour, an adequate redemp­ tion all speak eloquently and finally of the worth of a soul, the need of sinful man, the price of salvation, the mission of the Church, the justice of hell, and the joys of heaven. —F red R e e d y

D ecem ber, 1955 (561) 33 December 11, 19 55 Morning Subject: THE UNIQUENESS OF JESUS

S c r ip t u r e : Luke 5:17-26; T e x t : Verse 26

I ntroduction : A. The word “strange” in the text literally means contrary to opinion, or expectation, and almost to belief. B. The whole event very unique.

I. T h e U n iq u e n e s s o r U nexpectedness o f H is B i r t h A. The birth of a King to peasant parents. B. The place of His birth. C. The Messiah was expected to come as a man.

II. T h e U n i q u e n e s s o f H i s L i f e f o r T h i r t y Y e a r s A. In an obscure village. B. Engaged in a humble occupation. C. Waited till He was thirty to assert His mission.

III. T h e U n iq u e n e s s o f H is T e a c h i n g A. He shocked His hearers by His style. B. His wisdom, His insight into human nature, and His philosophy of righteousness beyond comprehension.

IV. H is U n i q u e M i n i s t r y A. His choice of disciples. B. The choice of His audiences and the places in which He preached. —F red R e e d y

Evening Subject: MAN HIS OWN DESTROYER, AND CHRIST HIS ONLY HELP

S c r ip t u r e : Matthew 23:29-39; T e x t : Hosea 13:9

I ntroduction : A. The strange power of sin over the human nature: (1) Sin charms, (2) entices, (3) entangles, (4) inhabits, and then destroys.

I. S i n C h a r m s t h e A f f e c t io n s . A. Causes man to love that which destroys. B. Causes man to hate that which will help him.

II. S i n E n t ic e s t h e W i l l . A. Causes judgments to be faulty. B. Causes wrong choices.

III. S i n E n t a n g l e s t h e L i f e . A. Causes actions which are irreparable. B. Blames the enticed will for the damage.

IV. F i n a l l y , S i n O c c u p ie s t h e W h o l e M a n : Spirit, Soul, and Body; Then Moves In for the Kill.

C o n c l u s i o n : Christ, the Answer— Christ, the Destroyer of sin— the only Solution. “Where sin abounds, grace doth much more abound.” —F r ed R e e d y

34 (562) The Preacher's Magazine THE GLORIOUS MEANING OF CHRISTMAS

T e x t : Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and, see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us (Luke 2 :15 ).

S c r ip t u r e : Luke 2:1-20

I ntroduction : There is always an underlying purpose and plan to all the universe. Therefore there must be divine purpose in Christ’s redemptive scheme from the manger to Calvary. I. To G od A. To God the Father it meant the giving of His only begotten Son (John 3:16). 1. As Abraham offered his Isaac. B. To Christ, the Son, it meant leaving heaven’s glory to suffer, sacrifice, and die on an old rugged cross (Phil. 2:5-8).

II. T o t h e W o r l d A. To the world it meant that God had provided a Saviour (Matt. 1:21; Isa. 53:6). B. Imagine our world without Christ. 1. Before Christ came. 2. Untouched portions or areas of the world today where Christ is unknown. 3. The so-called impotency of world religions: Confucianism,

Evening Subject: THE DEATHBED QUESTION

S c r ip t u r e : Ezekiel 18:20-32; T e x t : Verse 31

I ntroduction : A. The power of a question— (1) commands attention; (2) re­ quires an answer.

I. G o d ’ s M e t h o d w i t h M a n Is I nterrogative . (1) Adam, (2) Moses, (3) Israel. A. Recognizes man’s moral freedom. B. Makes place for the exercise of man’s own moral judgment. C. Places responsibility for choices upon man.

II. G od W a i t s P a t i e n t l y f o r M a n ’ s R e p l y . Centuries of mercy upon backsliding Israel testify to the patience of God.

III. G o d ’s Q u e s t i o n s A l w a y s M a k e C l e a r t h e A l t e r n a t iv e t o O b e d ie n c e . (“Why will ye die?”) A. No obscure implications—either obey and live or disobey and die. B. A faithful warning against sin and repeated promises of restoration. —F red R e e d y

D ecem ber, 1955 (563) 35 December 11,1955 Morning Subject: THE UNIQUENESS OF JESUS

S c r ip t u r e : Luke 5:17-26; T e x t : Verse 26

I ntroduction : A. The word “strange” in the text literally means contrary to opinion, or expectation, and almost to belief. B. The whole event very unique.

I. T h e U n iq u e n e s s o r U nexpectedness o f H i s B i r t h A. The birth of a King to peasant parents. B. The place of His birth. C. The Messiah was expected to com e as a man.

II. T h e U n iq u e n e s s o f H i s L i f e f o r T h i r t y Y e a r s A. In an obscure village. B. Engaged in a humble occupation. C. Waited till He was thirty to assert His mission.

III. T h e U n iq u e n e s s o f H i s T e a c h i n g A. He shocked His hearers by His style. B. His wisdom, His insight into human nature, and His philosophy of righteousness beyond comprehension.

I V . H is U n i q u e M i n i s t r y A. His choice of disciples. B. The choice of His audiences and the places in which He preached. —F red R e e d y

Evening Subject: IF CHRIST HAD NOT COME

S c r ip t u r e : I Cor. 15:12, 19; T e x t : Verse 19

I ntroduction : Strictly speaking, today is Christmas Sunday; but in reality every Sunday is Christmas, and every gospel sermon a Christmas mes­ sage.

I. J e s u s , t h e A l p h a a n d O m e g a , t h e B e g in n i n g a n d t h e E n d . The New Year’s Character and the chief Person of all thought as the year closes.

II. T h e C o r i n t h i a n I F R e g a r d in g t h e R esurrection P r e f i x e s E v e r y F u n d a m e n t a l D o c t r in e o f t h e C h r i s t i a n F a i t h . The doubter must establish his doubts, and offer an adequate alternative to faith.

III. H i s t o r y S p e a k s C o n v e r s e l y o f t h e C h a o s o f t h e A g e s W i t h o u t C h r i s t . —F r ed R e e d y

Truth, Defending If the truth that you believe in is of universal value, you will not need to argue it; just announce it.

36 (564) The Preacher's Magazine THE GLORIOUS MEANING OF CHRISTMAS

T e x t : Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us (Luke 2 :1 5 ).

S c r ip t u r e : Luke 2:1-20

I ntroduction : There is always an underlying purpose and plan to all the universe. Therefore there must be divine purpose in Christ’s redemptive scheme from the manger to Calvary. I. T o G od A. To God the Father it meant the giving of His only begotten Son (John 3:16). 1. As Abraham offered his Isaac. B. To Christ, the Son, it meant leaving heaven’s glory to suffer, sacrifice, and die on an old rugged cross (Phil. 2:5-8).

II. T o t h e W o r l d A. To the world it meant that God had provided a Saviour (Matt. 1:21; Isa. 53:6). B. Imagine our world without Christ. 1. Before Christ came. 2. Untouched portions or areas of the world today where Christ is unknown. 3. The so-called impotency of world religions: Confucianism, Buddhism, Shintoism, etc. C. The inadequacy of mere philosophy, education, law, etc.

III. To M a n A. To us it means that God offers eternal life as a free gift (John 1:12; Rom. 6:23). 1. Christ and the woman of Samaria at the well. 2. Bunyan’s immortal allegory describes Christian leaving the City of Destruction, his ears plugged by his fingers, crying, “Life, Life, eternal Life!” B. To the saints in glory it means bliss forevermore (John 14:1-3; II Cor. 5:2; Phil. 1:21-23). 1. With loved ones gone before. 2. With angels in glory. 3. With Christ, our Saviour, yea, and all the holy Trinity. C. To the Spirit-filled Church it must ever mean passion, per­ spective, sanctified vision, and undying love. 1. The shepherds told the story. 2. The Early Church proclaimed it. 3. The Christian martyrs died for it. 4. Unless Christ becomes an indwelling Presence, a divine and Christian incarnation, we do not yet know the real meaning of Christmas. — E . E. W o r d s w o r t h , Pastor Goldendale, Washington

D ecem ber, 1955 (565) 37 THE BIRTH OF OUR WONDERFUL LORD

T e x t : For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace (Isa. 9:6).

I ntroduction : The name stands for person. Christmas marks the birthday of the wonderful, matchless Christ. We mention some of His wonderful characteristics.

I. H is B i r t h W a s W o n d e r f u l . A. The only birth that every human being had an interest in. B. He became human as well as divine, that He might under­ stand our viewpoint, etc. C. He was hungry, tired, thirsty, as we are. D. He labored, He grieved, He wept as we do.

II. H is C h a r a c t e r W a s W o n d e r f u l . A. He was pure and faultless. Abraham, Moses, Paul, and others were good, but they had faults. B. Jesus had no fault, “neither was guile found in his mouth” (I Pet. 2:22).

III. H is T e a c h i n g s W e r e W o n d e r f u l . A. The greatest Teacher that ever walked the earth. B. “Never man spake like this man” (John 7:46).

IV. H i s M i s s i o n W a s W o n d e r f u l . A. He came “to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 1 9 :1 0 ) . B. He fully understood the cost of such a mission, but He loved the souls of men. C. In His great mission, He made possible the new birth, sanc­ tification, power to live above sin, glorification, and eternal happiness and fellowship with Him.

C o n c l u s i o n : Isaiah was right. His name should be called Wonderful. Sweetest name on mortal tongue, Sweetest carol ever sung, Jesus, blessed Jesus. — C . I. D e B o a r d , Pastor First Church, East St. Louis, III.

F a m i l y A l t a r True family worship is a vase of perfume that sheds fragrance over all. It softens harshness; it quells anger; it quiets impatience; it settles differences; it subdues evil passions. Hearts that are drawn together at God’s feet every day cannot wander far apart. The altar in the midst wonderfully hallows and sweetens the home fellowship. It smooths out the wrinkles of care. It keeps the fire burning on every heart’s altar. — Selected

38 (566) The Preacher's Magazine NO ROOM FOR JESUS

T e x t : N o room in the inn ( L u k e 2:7).

I ntroduction : A wrong choice often robs men of the greatest values of life. Involved in this incident were three things.

I. U n k n o w n V a l u e — No Room A. Messiah B. Saviour 1. Can save from guilt of sin. 2. Can save from pow er of sin. C. Everlasting King 1. All real and existing power in Him. 2. The day of His crowning is coming.

II. M i s p l a c e d V a l u e —Refused a good place A. Wealth came first. B. Position came first. C. Personal gain came first.

III. R e j e c t e d V a l u e —Sent to the stable A. This can be neglect. B. It might be deliberate. C. It could be there is no room for Christ. D. This condition means: 1. No guide—you will go wrong without His direction. 2. No hope—He is the Hope of the world. 3. Darkness—He is the Light of the world. 4. No security—He is the Rock of Ages. 5. No salvation—He is the only Saviour. Let us make room for Christ this Christmas Day!

P a u l W. L e e , Pastor Mt. Vernon, Illinois

THE PROTECTED CHILD

S c r ip t u r e : M atthew 2:13, 20

I ntroduction : The news of the birth of the King of the Jews caused Herod: A. Immediate trouble and anxiety. B. To inquire diligently what time the star appeared. C. To feign the desire to worship Jesus also.

I. N o w G od B e g in s t o P r o t e c t H i s C h i l d . A. W hy? 1. Because Satan would destroy Him. 2. Because God loved His only begotten Son, and He loved the souls of lost men. 3. Because Jesus was to mean salvation to millions. B. H ow ? 1. By sending the wise men back another way.

D ecem ber, 1955 (567) 39 2. By sending Joseph, Child, and mother into Egypt. 3. By giving His angels charge over the trio en route, while in Egypt, and on their return.

II. T h e C h r i s t i a n — a P r o t e c t e d C h i l d . Note Ps. 91:11-12. A. Protected by the Lord. “. . . therefore will I deliver him” (Ps. 91:14). “He . . . shall neither slumber nor sleep” (Ps. 121:4). “The eyes of the Lord run to and fro” (II Cor. 16:9). “The Lord God is a sun and a shield” (Ps. 84:11). “The spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard” (Isa. 59:19).

III. T h e C h r i s t i a n P r o t e c t s H i m s e l f . A. By declaring his relationship to God. B. In obeying God’s will for his life—day by day. C. As he stands for right and against wrong.

— B r u c e B. H a l l , Pastor East Point, Georgia

THE LORD’S SUPPER

S c r ip t u r e : Matt. 2 6 :2 6 -3 0 T e x t : I Cor. 1 1 :2 3 -2 9 (exposition)

I ntroduction : The Lord’s Supper is misunderstood by some. I t is an ordinance, a sacrament—solidly scriptural, rich in significance and experience.

I. H i s I n s t i t u t i o n ( v . 2 3 ) Begun, not by apostles nor by church fathers, but by Jesus himself.

II. H is I n c a r n a t io n ( v . 2 4 ) “This is my body ...”

III. H i s C r u c i f i x i o n ( v . 2 4 ) “My body broken for you . . . my blood.” ( I Pet. 1 : 1 8 - 1 9 ) . IV. His Invitation (or command) (vv. 2 4 -2 5 ) “ This do ”

V . H i s R ecollection ( v v . 2 4 -2 5 ) “In remembrance of me.”

V I . H i s P roclamation ( v . 2 6 ) “ ye do shew the Lord’s death ...”

VII. H i s A nticipation (v . 2 6 ) “Till he come.”

C o n c l u s i o n : The Lord’s Supper becomes a supper for us by: Salvation—must first be saved. Appropriation—by faith, take, eat. Assimilation—strength for life and service.

B. W. D o w n i n g , Pastor, Central Church Meridian, Mississippi

40 (568) The Preacher's Magazine J L...... - _ -...... „ ^ BOOK 1 BRIEFS

Book of the Month Club Selections for December THE THRESHOLD GRACE By Percy Ainsworth (Epworth Press, 75c) ST. PAUL’S HYMN OF LOVE By Percy Ainsworth (Epworth Press, $1.00) Here is a duet of books that will sing in your heart long after you have placed them back on your bookshelf. These are not brand-new; the writer died some years ago. But the books have not had circulation in the United States and so are new to us. And to think that a man only in his thirties could write with such depth of spiritual insight, and with polished and pointed expression—it humbles us all, and rightly it should. Ainsworth knew intimately the grace and the love he wrote about so fluently. The Threshold Grace is a series of meditations on the Psalms, and I rest assured that you will weep and thrill as you climb new peaks and view fresh vistas. St. Paul’s Hymn of Love—we all know that could be nothing else but the gem of all literature, First Corinthians 13. If you read Drummond’s The Greatest Thing in the World, you will find this equally warm and penetrating. Ainsworth gives us twelve chapters on love that are beautiful and rich in thought.

A MINISTER LOOKS AT HIS WORLD By R. Paul Caudill (Broadman, $1.75) This book is not a travelogue, but an interpretative analysis of world conditions by a world traveler. A score of nations were visited, leaders conversed with, and men of all ranks, high and low, interviewed. A devout Christian minister sees and feels the world’s needs, problems, heartaches, and the threat of communism, and finds the only answer is Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour. It is both dynamic and informative. Preachers and laymen should read it. (E. E. W.)

EXPOSITORY PREACHING By F. B. M eyer (Zondervan, $2.50) The author has been dead over twenty-five years but here is a book still fresh and refreshing. In fact, Meyer’s works gain in popularity rather than dwindle. From one who was a master of expository preaching comes this study of the composition and delivery of expository sermons. He wrote it after nearly fifty years of practice doing what he talks about. It is not the sudden inspiration of a novice who glimpses the glory of expository preach­ ing, nor a theoritician who spent days learning how but demonstrating nothing. Here is a master at work whose product was then, and still is, in universal demand. In successive chapters he pleads for, defines, tells the advantages of, and then tells the know-how—all in the interest of expository preaching. One of the high points is the chapter which discusses Christ’s use of scrip­ ture. Any minister who delights in digging into the hidden recesses of the Word (which outshines and outblesses casual discussions on passing topics) will find this a splendid addition to his library.

Decem ber, 1955 (569) 41 THE ROOT OF THE RIGHTEOUS By A. W. Tozer (Christian Publications, $2.50) The contents of this book were written primarily as editorials for the Alliance Weekly. Not merely pious little essays but pungent, heart-search­ ing messages. Almost a treatise in somewhat condensed form. The book comes to grips with life. A deep devotional tone throughout. Messages born in the midst of life. They are very practical, spiritual, and revealing. No serious person can read this book without strict self-examination. A state­ ment here and there reveals the writer’s rather forceful aversion to “sinless perfection.” Doubtless he is possessed with the common misunderstanding of this term. Heaven is never far away, but the rough world in which God’s children live is kept in full view. The reader will want to live holily after reading this book. (E. E. W.)

THE NEW BIBLE: Pro and Con By William- Carey Taylor (Vantage Press, $3.50) If all you desire is placid reading, or if your blood pressure is high, then don’t plan to read this book. It is controversial with a capital C. Yet, withal, it will profit any preacher who will sit down with the Bible (both King James and Revised Standard) and carefully check the mul­ titude of references that are studied. The author is frankly critical of the King James Version and you may resent his brutal frankness. And in the first section of the book he begins (diplomatically so) with a very generous appraisal of the values in the R.S.V. But before you are thoroughly an R.S.V. convert he turns to the “con” side of his discussion. From then on he does the most thorough job I have seen anywhere in pointing out the weaknesses of the R.S.V. Your Book Man wishes the author had faced his writing task with a calm which becomes a minister of the Lord. Instead, irony and biting, maligning insinuations crop out repeatedly. And in writing under such a pressure of bitterness his form of writing suffered deeply. He did not carefully enough pinpoint his scripture references or complete his argu­ ment. He was apparently in too much of a hurry to mount his steed and race to the fray in hunt of another foe. You will be interested in noting how he castigates the R.S.V. for being terribly unfair to the proponents of eternal security and leaning far too much toward the teachers of “ free will.” But, let it be said in utter honesty, the R.S.V. still has to answer a lot of charges which this careful scholar of Greek and Hebrew lays at its door. Until those charges are satisfactorily answered, our people will be justly cautious in using it or coming to rely upon its interpretations. It will be worth a lot to you to get this whole issue of the R.S.V. out in the open for your individual study. The author is a returned missionary of the Southern Baptist Convention. All in all, one of the most flavorsome books to come out for the lover of controversial issues.

Listing of a book in BOOK BRIEFS does not constitute endorsement of that book. Our thought is to present such books as may be of interest to our pastors, suggesting their values, pointing out their appeals and frequently their weaknesses— and, occasionally, a book that our readers may know of its demerits. The following system of rating is used: ###You cannot afford to be without it **0f especial value to any preacher *A worth-w hile book and a good buy No sta r— depends on your taste and need

42 (570) The Preacher's Magazine C^lristniai SiiffCj.eAtIon 6

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