Journey l From the President Journey l magazine Features/Department Make an Investment!

For the past fifteen years, I’ve had the privilege of serving as friendships with fellow students and faculty and staff mem- Journey Magazine, volume X, issue 2, Summer 2013 an elder at Countryside Bible Chapel in north-central Iowa. bers; (3) a safe, warm and hospitable environment; and (4) School Choice: Let cooler heads prevail over the hot topic! 7 John Jimo Journey Magazine is published by Emmaus Bible Countryside is located 30 miles NW of Ames in the midst consistent encouragement to live for Christ in the classroom, College, Dubuque, Iowa, USA. of cornfields and livestock country. Over the last ten years, in their work, on the court, in ministry, and as residents Many hard choices arise as the education of our children is considered. This article by John Jimo, cahir of the Education Department at Emmaus, will give calm guidance in this important decision. sixty or more of our young men and women have attended in the dorm. Opinions expressed in articles published in Journey Emmaus Bible College for one or more years. The leadership Our local church seeks to “give back” to Emmaus in a Magazine are not necessarily those of Emmaus Proverbs on Parenting Bible College. of the chapel encourages and supports college-age students number of intentional ways: 13 James Van Dine to attend because we recognize that a year or more at 1. Encourage our young men and women to attend The Bible does give specific guidelines for raising children. Dr. Van Dine, Emmaus Old Editor: David A. Glock Emmaus can be life-changing. for at least one year Testament Studies faculty member, traces the father-and-son relationship as reflected in the Assistant Editors: Lisa Beatty, Phil Boom Attending Emmaus benefits the individual student 2. Provide each student $500/year of fellowship while wisdom of Proverbs. Hear the inspired principles for producing a family that follows the path of Bible Editor: Dr. David J. MacLeod Circulation Manager: Laura Strautmann by grounding his or her faith in the truth of Scripture; but they attend righteousness. it also serves as an investment in the future of our local Design, Layout: Jesse Lange & Big Behr Design Co. 3. Pray for each student in attendance regularly by name Online-Journey: Jesse Fullan church, since students have the opportunity to grow in their 4. Invite faculty members from the college to minister at Around the Table understanding of, and develop a greater appreciation for, 18 Sharon Fleming our local church Connecting with the family around the dinner table has been a long-practiced, holy habit. How to contact us: Bible-based principles of church life. As a local body, we 5. Host the Emmaus Ensemble for a tour concert view Emmaus Bible College as a partner with us in equipping Learn how to restore this missing ingredient of godly family life to the families you touch. Journey Magazine 6. Encourage high-school students to attend a Emmaus Bible College and empowering servant leaders for the work of the ministry. Discover Emmaus Weekend Memorizing God’s Word 2570 Asbury Road It thrills us to see our young people practicing a daily quiet Dubuque, IA 52001 7. Invite Emmaus speakers for our annual weekend youth 21 Sarah Poling time, participating in the Lord’s Supper, witnessing to the retreat (800) 397-2425 lost, serving in our Awana program, speaking in the assembly, Emmaus Elementary Education teacher and mother of three, Sarah Poling provides methods www.emmaus.edu 8. Display Emmaus recruitment and ministry literature and materials for encouraging family memorization of Holy Scripture. Perhaps you will find and working at camp! helpful guidelines for this important part of your family life. As elders, we desire the following for each young person I challenge fellow elders in other local bodies to con- Editor: [email protected] in our local church, and we believe that a year or more of sider the eternal benefits of supporting your young men and Subscriptions: [email protected] The Biblical Covenants and Covenant Theology Part 2: College Admissions: [email protected] study at Emmaus is a great foundation for these life-long women to attend Emmaus. As elders at Countryside Bible Chapel, it is our best hope that the young men and women Alumni: [email protected] goals. We pray that students will: 24 Covenant Theology Correspondence School: [email protected] from our local church who have attended Emmaus Bible David MacLeod 1. Study the Bible to be “approved unto God.” Believers Stewardship Services: College will continue to walk the Emmaus Road for the rest This is the second of three articles by Dr. MacLeod on the subject of covenants. The first www.believerstewardship.org (2 Timothy 2:15) of their lives. “I have no greater joy than to hear my children article appeared in the last issue of Journey and treated the covenants of the Bible. This article Other: [email protected] 2. Seek the Savior, and give Him first place in walk in truth” (3 John 1:4). will deal with the concepts of systematic theology known as Covenant Theology. Both articles everything. (Colossians 1:18) will provide guidance in evaluating present-day discussion of covenant truth. Journey Magazine is available online at: 3. Abide in close fellowship Him and with other www.emmaus.edu/journey believers, and say no to sin. (1 John 1:5-7) Divorce—Because of the Hardness of Heart Journey Magazine will consider, but is not responsible 4. Worship Him, and serve Him daily. (Matthew 4:10) 30 David Glock for, unsolicited articles. Send submissions to Editor at A review of the biblical basis of marriage, the sanctity of marriage, and the plague of divorce the address above. Submissions cannot be returned Parents in our local assembly feel confident sending their that threatens even the world of the believers. This will help us “keep the finger on the page of unless accompanied by SASE. Advanced query is sons and daughters to the College because they know that Scripture.” recommended. Emmaus will provide (1) an excellent education from a Bibli- cal worldview; (2) opportunities for lifelong, Christ-centered Grief and Tragedy in the Family Dr. William J. Moore 34 Interim President Daniel H. Smith Emmaus Bible College At one time or another grief and tragedy will touch all of God’s children. Dr. Smith gives a bibli- cal basis for response to these difficult times of life. He includes advice for comforting and assisting others in bearing overwhelming burdens. Be equipped for bearing burdens for the glory of God! The State of the Family: The Mess We Are In 38 Alexander Strauch A bold analysis of the present condition of the family in society and subsequent impact on the Christian home. This wake-up call to reality describes the real threats to the family. Be alert!

Travel Guides...... 4 Just Like The Bible Says...... 17 Dr. MacLeod Asks...... 50 A Word Along the Way...... 53 News from Emmaus...... 54 On The Road...... 57 2 Journey: Spring 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 3 Journey l Travel Guides Journey l magazine Travel Guides

— New Books — — Books Relating to the Family — Decisions! Decisions! How to Really Know the Will of God Around the Table: Connecting with Your Family at Mealtimes Richard L. Strauss Sharon Fleming ECS Ministries, 2013 ECS Ministries, 2012 Making decisions is a routine part of life, but we often don’t look to God for guidance There is no better place for good communication, fun, and family togetherness than until we face a decision of supreme importance. A wise person prepares to handle big around the dinner table. Sharon Fleming is convinced that spending time together as a decisions by dealing properly with the small ones, and prepares for the major cross- family is vital to every area of our children’s lives and to keeping the family whole. We all roads of the future by learning in the present. love to eat, so spending time around the table is a natural place to instill spiritual, social, The Bible is filled with practical suggestions for making right choices of all kinds. In this and family principles into our children that will stay with them all their lives. book, Dr. Richard L. Strauss, respected counselor and Bible teacher, brings that informa- You are invited to join the Flemings at their table and see that the process can be fun! tion together for your encouragement and assistance. (160 pages) You will leave “full” of ideas and practical, biblical wisdom that you can implement at your next family mealtime! (80 pages) Enjoying the Book of Acts William MacDonald God’s Blueprint for Your Marriage ECS Ministries, 2012 Daniel H. Smith The Acts of the Apostles is a book that throbs with life and action. In it we see the ECS Ministries, 2009 (revised) Holy Spirit at work, forming the church, giving power to the church, and expanding the Family life is important to every generation. This practical study provides fresh insight outreach of the church. It is the magnificent record of the Sovereign Spirit using most into the biblical foundation for marriage and family life, the roles of husband and wife in unlikely instruments, overcoming most formidable obstacles, employing most unconven- the home, and the role of parents in child rearing and training. It provides insight into tional methods, and achieving most remarkable results. what the Bible tells us marriage and family life can and should be. (148 pages) In reading the book, we feel something of the spiritual exhilaration that is present when God is working. At the same time, we sense the tension that arises when sin and Satan The Christian Woman in God’s Family and Church oppose and obstruct. (224 pages) Harold G. Mackay ECS Ministries, 2012 The Ultimate Sacrifice The role of the Christian woman is under attack today by the continuous pressure of Sam Thorpe, Jr. the world around us. After sixty years of service for the Lord and study of His Word, ECS Ministries, 2013 Harold G. Mackay sets forth in this booklet what is believed to be the teaching of the Genesis 22 is a valuable landmark of biblical significance and treasure. This chapter over- New Testament regarding the position and privileges of Christian women in the family flows with prophetic significance, typology of the Godhead, and an unusually high degree of God and in His Church. (48 pages) of “first occurrences.” The themes are far-reaching across the canon of God’s Word. The lessons are contemporary for the Christian life in every generation and culture. Better Homes and Marriages The storyline drama will certainly grab the strings of your heart when you step into the O. J. Gibson shoes of the characters. ECS Ministries, 2011 (revised) As you study and contemplate Genesis 22, may your heart increase in love for the Sav- ior and in appreciation for the founder of God’s earthly people. May Abraham’s walk of Love . . . marriage . . . family life. In today’s culture, there are all kinds of opinions and faith from altar to altar bring you along in your journey to the place where you also may ideas of how to be successful in these areas. be able to make the ultimate sacrifice of God’s calling and claim your life for His honor But what does God say? Does the Bible provide instruction on how to love one and glory. (112 pages) another and have a proper marriage? It sure does—and this workbook will direct you to the Bible. Practical discussion questions at the end of each lesson will prompt you to make real change for real improvement in your marriage and family life. Chapters include: Understanding Genuine Love in Marriage, Improving Communication in Mar- riage, Reducing Arguments and Misunderstandings, Understanding the Husband’s / Wife’s Biblical Role, Developing a Spiritual Life Together, and much more! (80 pages)

To order contact John Rush at the Emmaus Bible College Library ([email protected] or 563-588-8000 ext. 1003)

4 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 5 Journey l magazine Journey l magazine

Private school Virtual Whatever Happened to the Family? school By Dave Glock

IN THIS ERA OF RAPID CHANGE But know this, that in the last days • Salvation through faith public in society, the Christian family is perilous times will come. Yes, and all who • The living Word of God school Christian threatened at the very core of its ex- desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suf- home istence. No longer is society charac- fer persecution. But evil men and impos- • The indwelling Holy Spirit school school terized by the influence of the Judeo/ tors will grow worse and worse, deceiving • The local church Christian ethic as the norm for both and being deceived. But you must con- • The universal church believers and the secular world. That tinue in the things which you have learned comfortable setting disappeared in the and been assured of, knowing from whom • Spiritual support of the ‘60s when the post-Christian outlook you have learned them, and that from Christian family took hold. It has been replaced with childhood you have known the Holy • Christian educational a societal antagonism to orthodox Scriptures, which are able to make institutions Christianity. Only in time of national you wise for salvation through faith Consequently, we can have con- tragedy does society reach back to which is in Christ Jesus. All Scrip- fidence the church and the Christian the past for things like prayer and the ture is given by inspiration of God, family will survive as they have for distinction between good and evil and and is profitable for doctrine, for these 2,000 years by the strength and the sanctity of human life. Soon comes reproof, for correction, for instruc- power of God and our obedience to By John Jimo the return to Godless secularism, with tion in righteousness, that the man Him. technology the great deliverer that of God may be complete, thoroughly On a personal note. Before my will save society and the planet; and a equipped for every good work (1 Tim. dear wife went home to be with the return to relativism in morality forces 3:1, 12–17). Lord, now some five years ago, one of absolutes from the focus. The Judeo/ our grandchildren made a candid video Christian environment has been Great distractions press in on the of a telephone conversation with her School Choice: replaced with secular humanism. An family: the isolation of social net- witnessing to an unsaved nephew. It always hostile world system headed up working and all its perils; the private has become a treasure to me. She said, by the Prince of the Air, the Devil, is computer world with all of its allure- “On any given Sunday all 23 of us are now openly hostile to true Christianity. ments; the pressures of materialism together at church remembering the Let cooler heads prevail In times like these it becomes and finances; the devolution of morals; Lord. That’s only of God’s grace. I’ll be imperative to reconsider the guidelines the attacks on biblical marriage and eternally grateful. I want that for you! of Holy Scripture for family life. It is the sanctity of life; the quality and in- You know . . . .” Over the hot topic true that the Bible tells us all we need tegrity of educational options; the soft- “I thank God,…when I call to to know for faith and practice: what to ening of the foundations of evangeli- remembrance the genuine faith that is believe to be saved and what we need calism (if that term is still applicable); in you, which dwelt first in your grand- hat school would you son because the science department genetic research in congenital to know to live for the glory of God. the world of entertainment and leisure mother Lois and your mother Eunice, choose for or recom- insists on a naturalistic explanation diseases. His aptitude for scientific Our desire in family life would be to activities. These and more provide a and I am persuaded is in you also” (2 Wmend to your child if of human origins and refuses to inquiry and research is already obvi- follow the biblical pattern of family real tension to have that model family Tim. 1:3–5). you found yourself in the following include viewpoints that it deems ous to all. You would like to reserve life, as in the apostle Paul noted in described in Timothy. This issue of Journey will remind scenarios? #1 - Despite the high “non-science.” Your 13-year-old your limited financial contribu- Timothy’s life: But in a sense, nothing is new us and refresh us in principles of family achievement results of the science son consistently scores far above tions to his education for college. in the distraction of the world, just life for the glory of God. ? education program at your dis- national norms on science and #2 - Your 18-year-old daughter will new ways. And the provisions of God trict-assigned high school, you have math exams and his career objective soon graduate from her public high remain available: grave concerns about enrolling your is to contribute “ground-breaking” school in the top half of her class,

6 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 7 Journey l School Choice: Let Cooler Heads Prevail Journey l magazine

with a B-average (3.12 GPA). Her concerning who will participate in their The usual translation is “Train up a The second term in need of a more process leading to adult maturity before school choice” on Christian families. composite score in the ACT college child’s formal education. With that in child in the way he should go, even accurate translation is the Hebrew word launching them in to adult life can be One size cannot fit all. If parents decide readiness exam was 24. She excelled mind, here are four guiding principles when he is old he will not depart from that is generally translated “child.” extrapolated and does find support on a school that better meets some of in English with a score of 28, but for making schooling choices. it” (nasb). But is this a promise or a Though elsewhere in the Bible the term from this proverb. their child’s educational needs but the struggled with science and math at proverb? Let’s assume it is a proverb—a refers to a variety of ages and stages in school is limited or unable to meet other 19 and 21 respectively. Although she single component of truth that de- life, na ar’ in Proverbs is understood to Guiding Principle #2: needs or desired outcomes, parents are seemed sure of her academic areas of scribes usual patterns in life—and be the adolescent/young adult who is Parents may avail themselves responsible for addressing the gaps that interest early in high school, she not a promise—a comprehen- in the process of being apprenticed in of an array of schools and exist in their child’s selected school- seems more conflicted of late. The Bible is replete with sive description of truth with wisdom and skills needed to take on educational programs and ing experience. For example, should She has expressed a consis- guaranteed outcomes—so that adult role responsibilities in keeping resources that support, not parents feel led to enroll their child tent interest in working precepts that inform parents we can focus on what the verse with his societal status.3 supplant, their responsibility in a neighborhood public school or with people and would like originally means. Avoiding the of nurturing and educating state university, they must arrange for they are their child’s first Finally, the third Hebrew term in need to prepare for her future pitfall of putting application their child or young adult. programs, resources or strategies that by attending college. before interpretation, of of a more accurate rendering is derek. promote their child’s spiritual develop- and principal teachers, and “The way he should go” should not Your family owns a farm dynamically understanding No one type of school is capable of ment (Bible study tools, routines in the be understood as parents meeting the and falls into the middle it calls parents to take this the proverb in light of con- meeting the diverse educational needs Christian disciplines, Christian campus developmental needs or giving consid- income bracket. It has been temporary or personal life and life situations of every Christian ministries, local church ministries or responsibility seriously. eration to the personal aptitude of the difficult to accumulate much experiences, let us first seek family. For example, while Christian families, formal training in the Chris- individual, as important as these issues savings for college expenses. to understand the writer’s mes- schools purpose to better meet student tian worldview, a godly mentor and of “divine design” are. Rather the focus With the growing array of schooling sage in order to properly apply spiritual growth needs than do discipling relationship) which public of “his way” in contexts both near (this options (Christian; home school; neigh- the verse to our life contexts. public schools, public schools generally schools by design cannot provide. verse) and far (the book of Proverbs) borhood public; magnet; parochial, Guiding are better equipped to meet diverse has more to do with the vocational and charter; virtual; college preparatory; Principle #1: A proper understanding of the verse Guiding Principle #3: societal demands that will be placed community college; Bible college; state Parents are the requires that we yield up the usual Parents should factor in university; technical institutes) and principal nurturers and “child-rearing interpretation” and on this young adult as he assumes his God’s sovereign plan for, concerns over school climates that lack educators of their child replace it with one of original intent. appointed role in society as deter- and work in, their child’s Why? Because the common translations mined by familial status.4 rigor, are unsafe, advocate for culturally and they are responsible for development when acceptable yet immoral behaviors, and for the Hebrew terms chanak (“train cultivating holistic growth No one type of considering schools. are antagonistic to the Christian world- up”), na ar’ (“child”), and derek (“the So the original intent of this and development before 1 verse encourages parents view, parents often ask, “How do we way”) are inadequate. The word usually school is capable of Each child is personally and to initiate the adolescent select the best school for our child?” launching their child into translated “train up” in Proverbs 22:6 is uniquely created by God (Ps. into the adult world by meeting the diverse the adult world. almost always used in the Bible for the 139) according to His purposes providing experience, I would like to suggest four guiding dedication and initial use of temples, al- educational needs and (Lk. 1:13–17) and God sover- The Bible is replete with precepts that training, status, and principles for Christian parents when tars, houses, and walls and only later ac- eignly equips the individual to inform parents they are their child’s responsibilities correspon- life situations of every considering school choices. Local quired the didactic meaning “to train” accomplish those purposes (Ex. first and principal teachers, and it dent to his role in society church leaders who often are asked for in Aramaic. So the verb chanak is better Christian family. 4, Jer. 1), part of which could in- calls parents to take this responsibility which eventually will pro- counsel from families may also find understood here as referring to the ini- clude formal schooling (Acts 22:3). seriously. While a number of Bible vide the young person with these principles helpful. tiation or bestowal of a young person’s Christian parents are advised to guide passages (Ex. 12:26–27; Dt. 6:4–9; Josh. a healthy level of satisfaction.5 official capacities and responsibilities in their child in discovering his or her Because life experience clearly demon- 4:19–24; Prov. 23:12–25; Lk. 2:39–52; The general idea of the proverb adult life instead of referring to a paren- “divine design” and choose educational strates time and again that individual Eph. 6:1–4; Heb. 5:11—6:3; Heb. is that the young person will find tal admonition to provide their infant options in accordance with that child’s teachers and school climates play vital 12:5–11) have been used to communi- 2 satisfaction and success if properly or child with good instruction. True, special design (Prov. 19:21). And as the child roles in either the progress or regress cate the parental responsibility for child prepared for his societal calling. inculcating a wise and moral character education needs of excep- matures, increase his/her involvement of a student’s academic, social, and training, Proverbs 22:6 immediately during early childhood is a biblical pre- Even if Proverbs 22:6 should not be tional learners. Because parents in the decision-making process not spiritual growth and development, it comes to the minds of many Christians cept as evidenced elsewhere in Proverbs used as the central text for the have to factor unique student needs only for school but also in all of life to is incumbent upon parents, especially as the central text for “training up a (13:24; 19:18; 22:15) and is essential for parental training up of young children, and familial concerns in their choices transition responsibility and account- Christian parents, to make prayerful, child.” responsible parenting, but that is not the principle of parents providing for of schools, it is impossible, even unwise ability and thus equip him or her for informed, and deliberate choices the focus of Proverbs 22:6. and guiding their child’s educational for advisors to force a monolithic “right adulthood (Eph. 6:4).

8 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 9 Journey l magazine

Dear 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grade Math, Science, History, Because parents have to factor visiting [1] Ted Hildebrandt, “Proverbs 22:6A: Train Up A Typing, Music, Sex Ed and Bible teacher (aka Mom), Child?” in Roy B. Zuck, ed., Learning from the Sages: unique student needs and familial the Selected Studies on the Book of Proverbs (Grand schools Rapids: Baker Books, 1995), 277-292. When I think back over my education and what teachers influenced me more than any other you come to mind. You concerns in their choices of under [2] 278-283. were so determined to give your children the best education possible that you sacrificed sleep to accomplish your schools, it is impossible—even consid- [3]283-287. goal. You studied subjects you had never learned before and mastered them in order for your children to do well eration. [4]287-289. on the S.A.T and A.C.T. You accepted no hardship as too great. I remember walking in to the kitchen around the unwise—for advisors to force Above all [5] 291. age of eight and being shocked to see a dead snake on the table! While gardening, you didn’t simply notice a a monolithic “right school else, pray [6] William MacDonald, Believer’s Bible Commen- five-foot snake close by, you saw an opportunity to teach. You killed the snake, and then proceeded to dissect for God’s tary, Art Farstad, ed. (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1995) 1735-1737. it, pin it to a cardboard frame and label all of the parts. You also emptied the contents of its stomach and found grace and choice”on Christian families. three baby birds. You then dissected the three baby birds and labeled their parts as well. As I stared at the guidance dissected animals you explained to us all about the food chain. You also described the function of each or- (Jas. 1:5) as gan and encouraged us to feel them. (You later told me it was because you knew that memory is triggered you desire to through the sense of smell and touch.) At that moment I knew my mom was AWESOME! I remember provide for and Guiding Prin- guide your child along his/her watching you teach my older brother Calculus 3 and Physics. It wasn’t until later that I found out you had ciple #4: Believers journey of formal schooling. ? to teach yourself these subjects in order to give us the best education. Most children will never have must live according to John Jimo a teacher like you. Your children have risen up and called you blessed and will continue to do so in the biblical principle of John taught mathematics to Jr. High students obedience to Scripture all the days of our lives. in Chicago and Dallas for 11 years prior to his Your Student and Son, Caleb Dodge mutual forbearance when P.S. Each January, I can 8 years as an instructor in Emmaus’ teacher dealing with matters of hardly wait for the semester education program. He regularly teaches God’s secondary importance in the word to adults in local churches and to children at Emmaus Bible College to and young adults at summer camps and weekend lives of fellow believers. begin because each student retreats. He and Heather have five young Dear Mr. Peterson, enrolled in my Introduction children and they fellowship at Arbor Oaks Bible Romans 14:11—15:13 provides to Education course is re- Chapel in Dubuque, Iowa. important precepts to properly You were my mentor as well as my teacher and friend. You pushed me to achieve quired to compose and read guide God’s people in dealing with excellence in the classroom, and helped strengthen my relationship with the Lord. You aloud a letter to a K-12 school differing personal convictions on were always the number one person I could talk to if I had a problem with life, with girls or prac- teacher who has impacted his matters of secondary importance. tically anything. Do you remember when you brought up the statistics about couples that move in or her life. Over the years, Whatever perspective or conviction students who are exploring together before marriage? You said they have a greater chance of divorce than those that wait until one holds on school choice, believ- education as a vocation have marriage. I remember you talking about that for 40 minutes and you got the whole class mad because ers are admonished to practice mu- chosen to communicate with they didn’t believe it. But you had an answer for every one of their questions and I think you made some tual forbearance (14:3), let each be past teachers from various people quite angry. Your wisdom counseled me through my high school years and your love for the Lord fully convinced in his own mind (v. kinds of school contexts. encouraged me every day to walk closer to Him. I also want to thank you for having a Bible study for young 5), and strive to maintain peace and Here are excerpts from two men in your classroom every Friday morning. The guys really loved it, and I think a few might have even got- build up one another (v. 19).6 Ravi of the letters written by this ten saved. I enjoyed spending time with you, even outside of school. You inspired me to become a coach and I Zacharias, a godly and seasoned year’s cohort. remember you saying that coaching was a great way to connect with students more closely and to eventually Christian apologist, commented, “It’s unwise for Christians to sling be able to talk to them about the Lord. Thank you so much for your friendship in my high school years and mud at others because it not only for giving me a desire to teach teenagers. leaves you with dirty hands, you end Sincerely, Caleb Ruter up losing a lot of ground.” There P.S. My father is also a current student at my college in Iowa. Help me, please! are also practical matters to keep in mind in selecting schooling options, such as gathering reliable informa- tion, talking to other parents, and

10 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 11 Journey Journey l magazine to the Land of the Bible e Tent o March 6-16, 2014 th f

CAESAREA SEA OF GALILEE JERUSALEM DEAD SEA Hazor Masada the UPRIGHT Visit the Holy Land with Emmaus Bible College! Exceptional biblical insight and a proven itinerary make this a spectacular experience with eternal value. will Itinerary Hosts CAESAREA Flourish Caesarea • Mount Carmel • Megiddo • Mount Arbel Steven H. Sanchez, PhD Chair, Bible & Theology Department AROUND THE SEA OF GALILEE Emmaus Bible College Sea of Galilee • Mount of Beatitudes • Chorazin • Capernaum • Kursi Dubuque, IA ISRAEL’S NORTHERN BORDER Hazor • Ancient Dan • Caesarea Philippi • Golan Heights Proverbs on Parenting THE DEAD SEA Spring of Harod • Bet She’an / Scythopolis • Jericho • Swim in the Dead Sea by Jim Van Dine Philip and Evelyn Boom THE WILDERNESS President hile the Bible, virtually from throughout Scripture. So, then, are structure and intention. Masada • Oasis of Ein Gedi • Wadi Qilt • Qumran • Jerusalem • Mount of Olives Emmaus Bible College beginning to end, assumes we left on our own to construct and Dubuque, IA ISRAEL - YESTERDAY & TODAY W that parents will raise their navigate this most challenging re- UNDERSTANDING PROVERBS The Temple Mount • Model of Jerusalem • Shrine of the Book • Israel Museum • children in the faith of the Lord (Dt. sponsibility? This writer thinks not. In A Common Misperception City of David Excavations • Warren’s Shaft • Pool of Siloam • Hezekiah’s Tunnel • 6:6–9; Eph. 6:4), it does not present fact there is a source for constructing When Proverbs and child-rearing are Herodian Road a complete human model of such. In such a model in the book of Proverbs, mentioned together, the verse that JERUSALEM & THE SHEPHELAH fact, there are probably more negative one that is often overlooked due to most often comes to mind is 22:6, Hezekiah’s City Wall & the Roman Cardo • Herodian Mansion • Southern Temple March 6-16, 2014 examples of child-rearing than positive misunderstanding the book’s overall “Train up a child in the way he should Steps • Shephelah & Elah Valley • Bet Guvrin • Beth Shemesh $3175 THE PASSION OF CHRIST (Land Only) Dominus Flevit on Palm Sunday Road • Garden of Gethsemane • Pool of Bethesda & St. Anne’s Church • Antonia’s Fortress • Via Dolorosa & the Church of the Holy : Summer 2013 13 Sepulcher • Gordon’s Calvary • The Garden Tomb • Farewell Dinner at American www.emmaus.edu/Israel Journey Colony Hotel Journey l Proverbs on Parenting Journey l magazine

go, and when he is old he will not culture it encapsulates that middle to amples in support of this higher level prior involvement on the part of both involves the ability to receive com- care for the individual accordingly. depart from it” (nkjv). The problem is later teen who has many adult capac- order of thinking will suffice. Extrap- parents, presumably from an early age: mand and process consequence, is So then has the parents’ role in their that this verse is merely an outcome ities but is still in significant ways not olating from the industry of the ant to “My son, hear the instruction of your very low or even zero at birth but then children’s lives completely ceased once statement, one that more often than ready for the totality of adult respon- personal diligence in necessary pursuits father, and do not forsake the law of begins to spike as the child grows in they have entered adulthood? not brings consternation to godly sibilities. is not “baby business” (6:6–11). your mother”; “My son, do not forget ability to choose and act. However, parents who have seemingly failed at Likewise, the appeals of “lady wisdom” my law, but let your heart keep my The answer is no, not because direct parenting with one or more of their via personification involve high-level commands.” responsibility for and authority over children; it does not even begin to abstraction, which is adult-type can somehow be reinstituted, but suggest a model for godly parenting. reasoning (1:20–33; 8:1–36; 9:1–12). STAGES OF PARENT/CHILD because of their influence upon the For that we must consider the overall Finally, grasping the wisdom of Agur RELATIONSHIPS child. This influence has a contrasting structure and message of the book, about such things as the leech’s This may seem to be an abrupt shift, track to the other two relationship with special attention to its prologue, daughters, the barren womb, the ways namely the jump from a parent’s dynamics. It exists at birth (or even namely chapters 1—9! of eagles, serpents, ships, and a man command, warning, and corrective dis- before birth as some modern research There are probably with a virgin require much more than cipline to the son living as a self-gov- suggests) but at a relatively lesser In this “instant” age In the “instant” age in which we live, more negative a child’s understanding to process and erning, intention-directed adult who strength than the other two dynamics. even Christians are often swept into apply (30:14–19). has adopted the path of wisdom on in which we live, even However, the nature of this influence the error of looking for how-to formu- examples of child- the basis of due consideration of his upon is that it increases to a certain las for success that require little reflec- The Approach father’s skillful admonitions. In order Christians are often point and then continues at this or tion. The book of Proverbs presents rearing than positive This is most certainly not the picture to bridge this conceptual gap one must just a slightly lower level for the rest swept into the error no such formula. In fact what it does is throughout Scripture. of a formula approach to producing understand the dynamics of the three of the child’s life. This is undoubtedly to lay out, clearly and extensively, the godly living. While there are specific basic components of the parent-child of looking for how-to true even of negative influence, but is philosophy of cultivating godly chil- situations warned against, complete relationship during the infant-to-ad- especially true of the positive, whole- dren; it gives the overall perspective with detailed consequences (like the olescent phase, namely the parents’ formulas for success some impact that a parent’s manner of how God brings human beings into The foundation for this understand- immoral woman, 5:1–23; the band responsibility for, authority over, and of life exerts on a child, even long spiritual adulthood. ing of Proverbs lies in the structure of murderous robbers, 1:8–19; and influence on their children. that require little after that parent’s authority over and and content of chapters 1—9. As all guaranteeing a friend’s debt, 6:1–5), reflection. responsibility for have ceased. It is this The Audience serious commentators recognize, this the overall instruction does not center At birth the child is totally depen- influence on the child upon which the The first and most important thing to (clearly extensive) prologue to the on direct, detailed control of the dent upon the parent for absolutely philosophy of child-raising presented know is that Proverbs is not addressed book is partitioned by the admonition child’s life. So then what of the years everything pertaining to life, which is, in Proverbs so powerfully trades. to the young child. Rather, it is a to the “son” to listen to the father’s of child-rearing leading up to this of course, much simpler than that life at some point this control begins to father’s admonition to a young person (and often mother’s) advice.1 This culminating instruction and appeal? will eventually become. As the child decline as the child becomes more This influence dynamic is revealed in who is on the threshold of adulthood; advice centers on the instruction to Certainly, the book of Proverbs is not grows, this responsibility will remain capable and independent in assuming Proverbs 4:10–13: “Hear, my son, and modern sociological lingo might con- pursue wisdom and righteousness in- taking the modern approach that ba- significant, even increasing, but will personal responsibility for his/her receive [internalize] my sayings, and ceive of this as the adolescent who is stead of defaulting to the mindset and sically says that children can success- then begin to decrease until the child behavior. When adulthood is entered the years of your life will be many. I in the process of “emerging” into fully lifestyle of foolishness and wickedness. fully raise themselves, is it? No! In fact has become an adult and assumes the authority of the parent ceases (or have taught [verb form of torah] you functional, independent adulthood. In support of this most basic under- even the nature of the appeal to the complete responsibility for his/her own at least should; sad is the family when in the way of wisdom; I have led [set The Hebrew word referring to the standing of this section one need only “emerging adult” counters this idea. welfare. this does not happen). an example for] you in right paths. basic character of this emerging adult consider the nature and substance of When you walk, your steps will not is usually translated as “simple” (nkjv; the various appeals. The father’s ad- While Proverbs as a whole assumes At the same time the parent also It is at this point that the lectures be hindered, and when you run, you esv) or “naïve” (nasb). It does not re- monition requires the ability to think the emergent adult as the object of exercises authority over the child, that of Proverbs are most germane. The will not stumble. Take firm hold of [be fer to the person’s mental acuity but to abstractly, to evaluate contrasting the admonition to become wise, there is, a biblically enlightened governance gullible, easily enticed youth is being committed to] instruction [educative the developmental stage characterized outcomes, and, on that basis, to make are indications of an earlier period of expectation and consequence encouraged to transfer dependence discipline], do not let go; keep her, for as being gullible (14:15), easily enticed intentional cause-and-effect decisions of the parents’ involvement in the designed for the child’s protection and submission from parents to God as she is your life.” (9:4, 16), falling into traps (22:3), toward the goal of wisdom. A few ex- overall nurture of the child. Passages and education (morally, intellectually, the One who designed life via wisdom willful and irresponsible (1:32). In our such as 1:8 and 3:1 seem to recollect and socially). This authority, since it and who stands ready to govern and

14 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 15 Journey l Proverbs on Parenting Journey l magazine

PRINCIPLES FOR SUCCESS Fourth, as a parents’ authority over what Proverbs contributes to a biblical So then, the essence of child-rearing and responsibility for the child wanes, understanding of how people proceed as it proceeds through infancy and the personal choice for life’s outcome from the complete helplessness and early childhood to the decision to must be presented and encouraged dependence of infancy to a willing, follow wisdom as an adult involves in accordance with the motivational conscious choice to become wise as three things. First, it involves con- lectures of Proverbs 1—9. Proverbs defines it. Left to themselves, sistent, responsible care for the child children will default to foolishness and modeled upon God’s fatherly care for reap the life of a fool. We must not His children (Ex. 4:22; Dt 32:6, 11). leave them to themselves but prepare, Secondly, it necessitates the exercis- guide, and exhort them to be wise. ? ing of godly authority over the child by setting standards and rules that 1 See Bruce K. Waltke, The Book of Proverbs: reflect God’s instruction (torah) for Chapters 1—15 in The New International Com- His people. Finally, it requires living a mentary on the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, MI: life of faith (“Fear of the Lord” is a key Eerdmans, 2004, 181-82. Waltke observes that the concept in the Pentateuch as well as “Hear, my son, and 10 lectures and two extended addresses of 1:8— Proverbs) in which daily living can be 9:18 are praises of wisdom “aiming to motivate the seen as connected to God’s wise design receive my sayings, son and the gullible to embrace” its teaching. “The and direction. When these relation- and the years of your son and the gullible (1:4, 5) stand on the threshold ship dynamics have been followed of full adulthood. The time is at hand when [they] through the early childhood years, life will be many. I must make a decisive stand for the godly parents’ then the best foundation possible has and sages’ world-and-life views and values.” been laid for the motivational lectures have taught you in of Proverbs 1—9, fatherly exhortations to adopt the path of wisdom for the the way of wisdom; I rest of life as the young person emerges have led you in right into adulthood. paths. When you walk, With this background it is possi- your steps will not be ble to summarize the philosophy of Jim Van Dine child-rearing assumed and specified in hindered, and when Dr. Jim Van Dine received his undergraduate the book of Proverbs. degree in Economics at Luther College and you run, you will not went on to receive a ThM in Old Testament First, parents must model wise living Literature and Exegesis and a PhD in Bible in the fear of the Lord. stumble.” Exposition from Dallas Theological Seminary. Jim served for 15 years as a commended worker at Clareview Bible Chapel in Edmon- Second, parents must act in their Finally, parents must pray that their ton, Alberta and has served on short-term responsibility-authority-influence roles children will commit and seal them- mission trips in Ireland and Albania. Jim and according to God’s revelation. selves in the right way, for this is, after his wife Kathy joined the faculty at Emmaus all, God’s will for them. in 2002. They have four grown children and 8 grandchildren. Third, parents must, at the appropriate time, focus the child’s attention to the CONCLUSION two-paths theme of Proverbs (wisdom- This has not been a how-to manual foolishness) with respect to the action- of characteristics that parents must consequence focus of the book. try to instill in their children in order for them to “continue in the faith.” Rather it has been an exploration of

16 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey l magazine

an you remember the Well, if you know me, you know that almost sounded like a word and kitchen table where I am strongly in favor of family meal- then gave us her priceless smile; and af- your family sat to eat times—okay, way past “in favor of”! ter dinner, without prompting, the kids dinner when you were I believe it is something every family said, “Thanks, Mom! That was good.” growing up? I can picture should do as often as possible. There (I basked in that one!) Cours: It was a rectangular, metal, drop are all kinds of statistics about how it leaf table with a gray Formica top and benefits kids when they eat with their God as “Host” black wrought iron legs. Its compactness families on a regular basis—everything Although there’s no command in the served my parents’ needs as newlyweds is better, from vocabulary, manners, and Bible to eat as a family, I do draw some in their 26-foot, single-width mobile eating habits, to not using drugs! But the applications for the practice from one of home. main reason I believe in family meals is my favorite mentions in the Bible of a After my brother and I came along because they connect families. table, found in Psalm 23:5, “You prepare and we were living in a house, he and If you can have food on the table a table before me in the presence of my I held foot wars under that table. Our and everyone sitting down together to enemies.” God is the host there, pro- parents solved that rivalry by rotating eat it, that’s a family meal. If you can viding a protected table for me. Since I the seating position one to the left, make that happen three, five, or seven want to reflect God-like character and placing brother at the head and me at times a week, you’ll all start connecting! actions at the meal table as well as all the foot—too far to kick each other. other spheres of my life, this verse has My brother and I were supposed to given me a whole new perspective on take turns setting and clearing the table, If you can have food on the how I should treat my children at but I thought setting was easier and tried table and everyone sitting our table. to rush in to do it out of turn so that I down together to eat it, If you asked my kids what my wouldn’t have to hang around to load catchphrase is, they might say, “Don’t the dishwasher, wipe the table, and dry that’s a family meal. If you play with the centerpiece!” But because the pots and pans. But when I did have can make that happen three, I am “hostess” to my children, I never to clear, Mom was always there, making five, or seven times a week, gave up on setting a table that looked sure the job was done right and talking nice as well as including tasty, nutri- with me. you’ll all start connecting. tional food. My goal has always been to After dinner, but before we did the make both the table and our family meal dishes, we had our family Bible reading. time a pleasant place. When my brother and I were young, Of course, meals with kids often The table God provides is also Mom and Dad read us Bible storybooks. are not idyllic. I remember one dinner protected. I used think that verse in Around the Table As we got older we read a chapter from years ago that was more typical than I’d Psalm 23 was talking about taunting By Sharon Fleming the Bible every night. I remember like to admit: Rosana got off her chair the enemy, but I have realized that, of reading through the book of Prov- many—too many—times; Christina course, that goes against God’s character. erbs for what seemed like an eternity, demanded our undivided attention from Instead, it is a safe table even when ene- reading Bill MacDonald’s verse-by-verse her highchair; Samuel ate so slowly that mies are all around. Regarding my kids, commentary between each Bible verse. he lost out on dessert; my husband, Jim, it is a safe place from the world where Then there was also the ridiculous received an urgent phone call, and at they can express their beliefs, doubts, rivalry about who had gotten to read the end of the meal, Daniel blew out the fears, preferences, and questions without more verses. candle with such force that wax flew all fear of ridicule. over the table. I admit I lost my temper Get Back to the Table! and blew up over each incident, not one Around Our Table Of course, I’m sharing about my growing of which was important at all. One of my favorite memories of our own up years from the last century—the last But when I reviewed the meal family’s “protected table” was one night millennium! Sadly, it seems that regular time later that evening, I realized it had when our children were young, I asked family mealtimes around the table are included some enjoyable moments: We my family during dinner, “If you could a thing of the past. Families don’t have laughed as Jim told how, years before, ask God any question, what would time for that now. Everyone has a differ- his brother could annoy his sister at it be?” ent schedule and the goal is just to get mealtimes by just tapping his fingers on Five-year-old Rosana said, “Why food—right? the table; baby Christina said something does the earth go around?”

Journey: Summer 2013 19 Journey l Around the Table

Then Samuel, who at that time was what color is light?” about the best computer or camera to four, said, “I’d ask, ‘How many angels do “White,” answered Daniel. buy, and stories and games that have you have?’” There were two lit candles on the made us laugh so hard we’ve cried. I love “Why is the sky blue?” asked Dan- table. I pointed to them and asked, our family mealtimes! iel, our oldest, who had just turned nine. “What color is the light of these Jim and I recently celebrated our Jim asked another question of the candles?” 30th anniversary and came into the new kids: “When we are in heaven will we “Yellow!” they all answered at once. experience of an “empty nest.” I could all be able to talk to God at once?” To get them to think a little more, I hardly believe when we said good-bye MEMORIZING Daniel suggested, “Since God is said, “The Bible also tells us that God is to Samuel as he headed to Texas for an three Persons, He could talk with at love. What color is love?” internship and moved Christina into the least three humans at once.” Quickly Samuel responded, “Red!” Emmaus dorm that 27 years of daily fam- Changing the subject a little, That was the end of that part of our ily meals had come to an end. Looking Rosana asked, “Will there be clocks in conversation that night. back I was convinced those peeled po- heaven?” I’m sure she was wondering Later I made notes on the conver- tatoes, scalded pots, mountains of dirty if learning to tell time was worth the sation so that I wouldn’t forget it. As I dishes, spilled glasses of milk, cajoling struggle she was currently going through. thought about what we had said, I real- to finish the broccoli, reminders to say GOD’S Jim answered that there would neither ized we had succeeded in having a con- “please” and “thank you,” and search Do people still memorize? Do people value Looking back, I am convinced those peeled potatoes, scalded pots, mountains of dirty WORD dishes, spilled glasses of milk, cajoling to finish the broccoli, reminders to say memorization? by Sarah Poling “please” and “thank you,” and the search for the “perfect” family devotions... Is it a lost art in were worth it. this “Google it” generation?

be time or night. versation that was significant in many for the “perfect” family devotions (hint: If there would not be any night, ways. We connected with our children they don’t exist, but different ones are Samuel wanted to know, “Are we going personally and on topics of theology, good for different times) were worth it. to sleep in heaven?” heaven, and eternity. They all partici- Without a doubt, I would do it all We answered, “Probably not, be- pated because they were safe enough to over again. ? cause God is the light of heaven wonder and express themselves. I knew Sharon Fleming and His light never goes out. Besides, I wanted to make sure we repeated that Jim and Sharon we’ll have different bodies that won’t get scenario many times. Fleming are mis- tired.” sionaries and the t Emmaus the question has The answers were delightful, varied, • “I love it so much, I find myself Rosana remembered the verse, A Habit that Endures parents of four. They come up: Do people still memorize? Do and valuable. It is worth the time to reading it out loud, preparing to served the Lord in A “Jesus is the light of the world.” Nowadays, one of the rewards of that people value Bible memorization? Is it pursue this question yourself. teach it; I realize I can quote it, and “And of heaven,” added Jim. pleasant, protected table is eating and Lima, Peru for eight years and in Bogota, a lost art in this “Google it”’ genera- The most-repeated answer with I meditate on it—which requires a Then I asked, “What color is God?” conversing with our grown kids on a Colombia for sixteen years. They currently tion? I presented a seminar on “How to EVERY response was “Thy Word have certain amount of memorization Immediately Rosana, who is of Pe- whole new level. They are (for the most are “missionaries to the world” inspiring and Memorize Scripture” last May and have I hid in my heart that I may not sin to achieve.” (Dave Glock) ruvian descent with beautiful olive skin, part) past the squabbling stage and enjoy challenging people to study the Word of God continued to pursue these questions all against thee,” Psalm 119:11 (and KJV • “It helps me pray and worship held out her arm and announced, “Jesus talking to us and to one another. In fact, in the 110 countries where the Emmaus year. it was for most everyone!). But putting better.” (Mark Stevenson) has skin the same color as me.” family meals are now the “centerpiece” Bible Courses are used. Jim travels about One way to approach the question aside the command of Scripture, here I agreed that Jesus, being from the of the long weekends when we all get one-fourth of the time and Sharon gets to join was to ask people at Emmaus, “WHY are some other reasons Emmaus Bible • “The older I get the more I recog- Middle East, probably had darker skin together. him on one or two trips a year. Although they do you memorize?” I interviewed (infor- College faculty memorize God’s Word nize it is a treasure. As I go through than He is portrayed as having in most We have had serious conversations expected to live out their lives overseas, they mally) colleagues at Emmaus. I inten- and the benefits they receive from trials, memorized Scripture (and currently have their family meals around a artwork. “But,” I added, “If God is light, about life goals and doctrine, lots of talk tionally caught them off-guard and said: knowing Scripture. good gospel songs) come to me in table in Dubuque, Iowa. “Why do YOU memorize God’s Word?” the middle of the night! I’m

20 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 21 We do not always have a Bible or technology in our hands and yet we need to share and to hear God’s truths. If it’s only on the screen or in a book, it’s not active in our mind.

inspired by my memory of Jim Ca- in our hands and yet we need to Dr. Smith also explained that he Word while preparing their messages; if • Listen to Scripture; YouVersion (an • Set a goal and create a plan to mem- tron who was a walking Bible. Even share and to hear God’s truths. If believes memory reaches a different women need to memorize more verses app) will read it; or Faith Comes by orize a passage or collection. as he was suffering with cancer, it’s only on the screen or in a book, part of your brain. Even when your because we are more verbally oriented Hearing has Scripture as an mp3 file Everything mentioned above and he continually quoted Scripture. it’s not active in our mind. There physical body is shutting down, some- than men; and which gender is a better (kids or adult). MANY more examples are in the links When I’m preparing for preaching, is personal benefit to memoriz- how the electrons for memory and your memorizer? As a group we were unable at the end of this article. I realize I often recite the passage ing. Malachi 2:7: “The lips of the brain are spiritually connected, not part to answer these questions, but they word for word because in my study/ priests shall preserve knowledge”; of the temporal or physical body, and made for intersting conversation! Need more motivation? mediation I’ve memorized it.” 1 Peter 3:15: “Be ready to share the that memory is part of what makes hu- Memorizing is important to people at I take joy in • I take joy in doing your will, my God, (Dave MacLeod) hope that is within you.” And in mans set apart from other creatures. So Emmaus. The challenge is figuring out doing Your for your instructions are written on my • “Promises found in the Bible are the end of life, I have seen many God created us to know Him through strategies to make it a regular discipline. heart. Psalm 40:8 (NLT) role models whose physical body the Word in our life on Earth and in God’s tools to keep from sin and to Here are some helpful ideas. will, my God, • This Book of the Law shall not depart failed, yet their memory of Scrip- heaven. know how I am to live. It also gives from your mouth, but you shall med- ture was there; they could join in I also asked about memorization • Use hand-written notecards or print for Your hope and encouragement.” itate on it day and night, so that you with Scripture or a hymn. This with students and other faculty in the verse cards. (Jon Glock) instructions may be careful to do according to all impressed on me the great value of dining hall over lunch. Our conversa- • Make them prominent in your life that is written in it. For then you will • “Memorizing enables the Holy instilling Scripture in my mind for tions were enlightening as well. Here’s are written (on mirrors, by the sink, in the car). make your way prosperous, and then Spirit to bring it to mind when I the connections it can bring.” what a group of women discussed: on my heart. • Use first letter cards (of each word) you will have good success. Joshua need it.” (Jim Van Dine) (Dan Smith) to practice a verse. Psalm 40:8 1:8 (ESV) • “I memorize so that when I share • Memorizing is your heart’s motiva- • Use audio files or music to hear the • All Scripture is breathed out by God the gospel or teach kids, I can tell tion to keep from sin. It’s not just words. (You’ve Got the Time free on and profitable for teaching, for reproof, them the truth with the Truth. Kids words. itunes) for correction, and for training in righ- need to hear and respect or reject • Post Scripture in your home where • It renews your mind and emotions. teousness 2 Timothy 3:16 (ESV) God’s Word, not wisdom or ideas When it’s in your • Make up motions and actions or find you do repetitive tasks. from me.” (Arthur Manning) • Kids memorize to build a founda- images to go with the concepts in • How can a young man keep his way heart and life, it • Make the posted Scripture beautiful • “I memorize because I love the forms you, you tion for lifelong connections to the verse. pure? By guarding it according to your other truths and to develop their artwork. Word, I want to know it (even think biblically, • Play games. Erase words on a small word. Psalm 119:9 (ESV) long- and short-term memory. • Check out ScriptureArt.com. They though the older I get, it can be a white board. Jump with each word. and it abides in have repositionable vinyl art to fight) and because it sticks with me. you; which can • It helps us find things in the Bible. Cover words with your hand. Online Resources: http:// I can think or ponder on it when display. www.livebinders.com/play/play_or_ give you hope, • One member memorizes because • Attach memorizing to a task like I’m not reading the Bible. If you • Print and frame Scripture texts. edit?id=403242 www.whisperingthe- overcome evil, she doesn’t like to read. showering or washing dishes. word.blogspot.com, and http://pinterest. love God’s Word, you want to know • Write and post Scripture with dry and speak to • One member has memorized since • Choose verses that you NEED and com/sarah_poling/spiritual-disciplines/ ? it!” (Jack Fish) erase markers on mirrors/windows, you in the night. childhood because it was feared memorize by theme. • “Memorizing allows the Holy Spirit that the Bible as a printed word a white board, a shower wall, or a • Choose to memorize in NKJV Sarah Poling to use Scripture to comfort, to could be taken from us. frame with colored paper in it. encourage, and to feed me at times because of the cadence and rhythm Sarah has been on the • Use a computer program like Scrip- Teacher Education fac- when I don’t expect it or when I • We learned that if we memorize in of the words. the shower, there is more oxygen in turetyper.com (You can measure ulty of Emmaus since need it. I have been amazed at how • Listen to Seeds Family Worship. the air and the higher levels of air your progress by typing speeds, get 1998, serving at a half the power of Scripture set to music They have produced 7 CDs of time status since 2002. help us think better. e-mail reminders, print your own comes to life in my mind when Scripture set to music for adults and cards, join a community working on She is a trained Ele- I don’t even remember when I • When you memorize in different children. Each CD has a theme: the same verse/passage, and you can mentary Educator with learned the song.” (Ken Daughters) ways (walk, talk, sing, in the Courage, Faith, Encouragement, the choose your translation!) a Masters of Arts in Teaching from Coe College. Teaching the Bible to children is a passion of hers • “When it’s in your heart and life, shower, write) it activates different Character of God… parts of your brain and actually is • Join a blog: Do Not Depart.com and she has practiced her teaching/leadership it forms you, you think biblically, • Memorize Scripture with your kids stored diversely and can be recalled (and Facebook group) encourages skills in her home, ladies Bible studies, Christian and it abides in you which can give and take turns reciting. memory work. They choose a pas- Camping, teaching Sunday School, and directing hope, overcome evil, and speak to differently. • Find a system or program like sage to work on over several months. children’s clubs and programing. She and Roger you in the night.” (William Moore) We also wondered a lot of things… have been married 17 years (he is a deacon and AWANA or verses with your Bible They provide tons of resources to such as whether memorizing is easier High School Teacher) and have three children • “It teaches us we should, we need study. make it easy. (They’ve done Romans to hear it (Romans 10) and God for men or women; how many adults 8, Sermon on the Mount, and now (ages 2, 6, 10). blesses the spoken word. We do not purposefully memorize Scripture; • Use the Fighter Verses from Desiring Psalm 71). always have a Bible or technology if men who preach have an unfair God (CDs, notecards, and an app). advantage in that they meditate on the • Watch a YouTube video of someone • Use the Navigators topical programs. reciting an entire book of the Bible. 22 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Spring 2013 23 Journey l Covenant Theology Journey l magazine

the Lord Jesus speaks of the task the had given Him (17:6, 9, 24). used in Genesis of the covenant of Father gave Him to do and of the fact Covenant theologians find Luke works or of the covenant of grace (see THE BIBLICAL COVENANTS that He accomplished that work (Jn. 22:29 particularly significant in light of below). Herman Bavinck explains, 17:1–5–6). the fact that the term covenant is not “The word [covenant] was admittedly Even though the word “covenant” used of this pre-temporal arrangement first employed in the [secular] world AND COVENANT THEOLOGY is not used of this arrangement, propo- among the members of the Trinity. of everyday for contractual provisions nents argue that the essential elements Jesus says, “Just as My Father has and agreements between people. Long of a covenant are here: (1) contract- granted Me a kingdom, I grant you.” before God established His covenant PART 2: COVENANT THEOLOGY ing parties, namely the Father and In this verse the Greek verb translated with Noah and Abraham, covenants – the Son; (2) requirements, namely “grant” or “appoint” (kjv) is diatithemi had been made between humans. And that the Son should assume a human from which the word diatheke– – (“cov- this had to be the case for the case By David J. MacLeod nature (Heb. 2:10–15), pay the pen- enant”) is derived. In short, were we of Noah and Abraham, and Israel to alty for sin and merit eternal life for to paraphrase the verse we might read, understand and appreciate religion as HISTORICAL BACKGROUND the Princeton Seminary faculty as THE COVENANTS OF His people (Gal. 3:13; 4:4–5), apply “Just as My Father covenanted Me a a covenant. This is also why the word In any discussion of this subject one well as others such as William G. T. COVENANT THEOLOGY the merits of His sacrifice to sinners kingdom, I covenant you.” does not yet occur in Genesis [2:16–17 must distinguish between the cov- Shedd and Louis Berkhof. We may The Covenant of Redemption through the powerful operations of Even though this covenant is not and] 3:15. Only when covenants were enants of Scripture and “Covenant define Covenant Theology as “a form According to Charles Hodge this is the Holy Spirit (John 3:3–5; 16:7–11); called such in Scripture, Dr. Lewis needed in a sinful world and decep- Theology.” While the Bible has much of Christian thought giving central “the covenant between the Father and (3) promises, namely that the Father Sperry Chafer, the doyen of American tive human society for the defense to say about various covenants, Cov- importance to the idea of covenant the Son in reference to the salvation would prepare His Son a body (Luke dispensationalists, wrote, “This cov- or acquisition of any good could the enant Theology as a theological system and using covenant as the organizing of man.”4 Berkhof offers a definition 1:35; Heb. 10:5), that He would enant rests upon but slight revelation. value of a covenant be appreciated and did not develop until after the Protes- principle of the entire system.”2 that includes the whole Trinity. It is endow Him with the Holy Spirit, It is rather sustained largely by the religion be regarded from this point of tant Reformation. Traces of ideas that To understand Covenant Theol- the arrangement, he says, “between enabling Him to carry out His mission fact that it seems both reasonable and view.”8 would later coalesce into the system ogy we must distinguish between the the persons of the Trinity by which the (Isa. 42:1–2; 61:1; Acts 10:38), that inevitable.”6 Although the word “covenant” of Covenant Theology can be found theological covenants of that system Father gives the Son as representative He would support Him in His work does not appear in the Genesis ac- in writers such as Heinrich Bullinger and the biblical covenants. The Head and redeemer of the elect, the and deliver Him from the power of The Covenant of Works count, the elements of a covenant do (1504–75), Kaspar Olevianus (1536– biblical covenants are those covenants Son voluntarily takes the place of death, enabling Him to destroy the In the Garden of Eden Adam had a appear. First, there are the contracting 87), William Ames (1576–1633), clearly designated as covenants in those given him by the Father, and the dominion of Satan (Ps. 16:8–11; Acts positive holiness, but it was amissible parties, God and Adam. Second, there Johannes Cocceius (1603–69), and Scripture, namely the covenants with Spirit gladly applies the merits of the 2:25–33), that He would give unto (amissibility = possibility of being are the elements of the covenantal Herman Witsius (1636–1708). It is in Noah, Abraham, Israel at Sinai and redeemer to the elect, gathering them Him numerous seed as a reward for His lost). In Genesis 2:16–17 God entered relationship: (1) Adam, the natu- the work of Witsius that we find Cov- Moab, David, and Israel in the New to the Son of God and the Father.”5 finished work (Ps. 22:27; 72:17; Isa. a compact with Adam in which He ral father of the human race, is also enant Theology fully systematized.1 Covenant. The theological covenants Scripture clearly suggests there 53:10), and that He would commit all promised to confer eternal life on the constituted the representative head of The views of these men were are largely deductions from Scripture. was an eternal plan of redemption in authority unto Him for the govern- basis of obedience and to punish him the race, so that he can act on behalf made popular through the Westmin- They are not, with one exception, which there was a division of labor: ment of His church and restore to Him with death if he disobeyed. Hodge of all his descendants. (2) He is placed ster Confession (1647). They were actually called covenants in the Bible. the Father being the originator, the the glory that was His before the world calls this compact a “covenant of life,” on probation to determine whether brought to America by the Puritans They are: the covenant of redemp- Son the executor, and the Holy Spirit was (Mt. 28:18; Jn. 17:5). In John while Berkhof adopts the more con- he will willingly obey God. (3) He and widely disseminated through tion, the covenant of works, and the the applier (Eph. 1:4, 7, 13–14; 3:11; 2 17:5 Jesus claimed His reward, namely ventional “covenant of works.”7 is promised eternal life if he obeys. the books of Charles Hodge and covenant of grace.3 Th. 2:13). In His high priestly prayer future glory and the people the Father The word “covenant” is not And he is threatened with death if he

24 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 25 Journey l magazineCovenant Theology Journey l magazine

disobeys. say it is believers and their seed; and of the covenant are themselves part that is the one which takes serious Reformation. I mention this only of grace to “the level of globally de- Many object to the use of the some say it the elect sinner in Christ. of the covenant and have the respon- the claims of the Bible that God truly because covenant theologians often terminative status.”23 While we might term covenant to describe this ar- Berkhof argued for the third of these sibility to repent and believe. They entered into covenant with unfallen charge that Dispensationalism is a agree on the existence of a covenant rangement. Yet many do not, includ- options (the elect sinner), yet he went benefit from covenant blessing in that Adam, and that He again entered recent development. Recency does of grace, or an Adamic Covenant, we ing a number of prominent dispensa- on to say, “The covenant as a histor- they receive the ministry of the Word, into covenant with fallen Adam.”17 not mean a view is erroneous; it only cannot agree that it is anything more tionalists. J. N. Darby, for example, ical phenomenon is perpetuated in the seals of the covenant (i.e., the Others would say that while Genesis means that it must be verified by the than the promise of salvation through wrote, “Adam…transgressed a positive successive generations and includes sacraments, including infant baptism), contains a revelation of the essence of teaching of the Bible. Second, the a coming redeemer. Covenant theo- covenant.”9 Furthermore, in Hosea 6:7 and they are subject to special influ- the covenant it was not until Abraham logians go way beyond the evidence the prophet wrote of Israel, “But like ences of the Holy Spirit that come that the covenant of grace was actually in arguing that the covenant of grace Adam they have transgressed the cov- through believing parents (1 Cor. established. God’s covenant with Abra- is the center of the Bible’s theology. enant” (nasb). This reading is disputed 7:14) When these children reach the ham was the formal transaction that They see history as primarily salvation by some, but William Kelly, the prince age of discernment they are responsi- marked the beginning of the covenant history, i.e., the goal of history is the of early dispensational commentators, ble to accept their covenant responsi- of grace.18 redemption of the elect. When treat- supported it. After defending the read- bilities voluntarily by a true confession The ratification of the covenant ing the future of Israel as it is described ing given here he added, “The relation of faith. Those who do not enter of grace with Abraham marked the in the biblical covenants (Abrahamic, of Adam with God may be regarded as the communion of life are covenant gathering of the “church out of the Davidic, and New Covenants), they a covenant, though not the covenant WHILE THE BIBLE breakers.14 world, and making it members of a THE THEOLOGICAL invariably emphasize soteriological [i.e., not the Sinaitic covenant].”10 C. peculiar people.”19 The covenant with or spiritual issues. However, a careful I. Scofield also called the arrangement HAS MUCH TO SAY The Promises of the Covenant Abraham, says Berkhof, “marked the COVENANTS ARE analysis of these covenants shows in Eden a covenant, using the expres- ABOUT VARIOUS The promises of the covenant to the beginning of an institutional church.”20 LARGELY that while they deal with spiritual sion, “the Edenic covenant.”11 regenerate include all the promises of As an aside I should note that matters, they also emphasize social, The argument of Romans 5:12–21 COVENANTS, God made to His people throughout some dispensational writers also argue DEDUCTIONS FROM geographical, economic, and political is also used to support the idea of the COVENANT the ages of redemptive history. The that God instituted another covenant SCRIPTURE. THEY matters24—think, for example, of the covenant of works. It is clear that temporal blessings (a land, progeny, a after the fall of Adam. However, they social, geographical, economic, and Adam and Christ are contrasted as THEOLOGY AS A kingdom) symbolize spiritual blessings. do not call it the covenant of grace; ARE NOT, WITH political changes that will take place two representative men. Just as the THEOLOGICAL Also included are the promise of the rather they call it “the Adamic cov- ONE EXCEPTION, in the Millennial Kingdom in fulfill- one action of Adam condemned all of Spirit, full salvation, and final glori- enant.”21 They agree with their Cov- ment of the Old Testament covenant his posterity, so the one act of Christ SYSTEM DID NOT fication. The requirement of man is enant Theology brethren that Genesis ACTUALLY CALLED promises.25 brings a righteous standing to all who DEVELOP UNTIL consecrated devotion to God, identi- 3:15 contains “the first preaching of the Fourth, proponents of the system are justified. Both men were the cov- fication with the people of God, and gospel,” but they do not believe that COVENANTS IN all agree that the covenant of grace is enant heads of people: Adam of the AFTER THE PROTES- saving faith in Jesus Christ.15 the later biblical covenants are merely THE BIBLE. the same throughout the dispensations fallen human race, and Christ of the The covenant is gracious in that subsets of the Adamic Covenant. although its form of administration justified people of God. TANT REFORMATION. God allows a guarantor or surety to changes. There is the same plan of sal- meet our obligations. God’s Son is the A CRITIQUE OF theological covenants, apart from the vation, “the same promise of deliver- The Covenant of Grace many in whom the covenant life is guarantor who meets the obligations COVENANT THEOLOGY 22 covenant of works (cf. Hos. 6:7) are ance…, the same Redeemer, the same The Parties of the Covenant never realized,” that is, even some who of justice at the cross, and the Holy Having outlined the system of Cov- not specifically designated by the word condition required for participation According to Berkhof the covenant are never saved are included in the Spirit enables God’s people to live up enant Theology, I would like to suggest covenant in the Bible. The explana- in the blessing of redemption, and the of grace is “the gracious agreement covenant of grace.13 to their covenant responsibilities. some problems with the system. As I tion of these covenants by covenant same complete salvation for all who between the offended God and the How can unsaved people be in do so I would like to affirm that many theologians contains a number of embrace the offers of divine mercy.”26 offending but elect sinner, in which the covenant? Berkhof answers that THE BEGINNING OF proponents of the system have been scriptural ideas, yet the covenants are The later biblical covenants are merely God promises salvation through faith the covenant has two sides to it, THE COVENANT OF GRACE outstanding Christians, and I com- arrived at deductively, not inductively. continuations, newer phases, or subsets in Christ, and the sinner accepts this namely the purely legal relationship Covenant theologians disagree over mend their emphasis on the grace of Whether all the necessary ingredients of the covenant of grace. However, believingly promising a life of faith which includes believers and their the time of the establishment of the God, the atoning work of Christ, and of a covenant are to be found in them this nullifies the genuine distinctions and obedience.”12 The first party of children—some of whom are regener- covenant of grace. Some would say that justification by faith alone. is debated—even by some modern that exist between the covenants. the covenant is God in His role as ate and some of whom are not—and the covenant of grace began with first Nevertheless, there are prob- covenant theologians. For example, Berkhof argues that the Redeemer and Father. Covenant the covenant as a communion of life proclamation of the gospel (protevan- lems: First, Covenant Theology is a Third, Covenant Theology’s covenant of Sinai “was essentially theologians disagree over the iden- which is made up of the regenerate gelium) to Adam (Gen. 3:15).16 “There recent development in the history understanding of the goal of history is the same as that established with tity of the second party. Some say who are genuinely united with Christ. is one interpretation only which does of theology. It did not become fully too limited. This is because covenant Abraham, though the form differed the second party is the sinner; some The children of believing members justice to the Scriptural data, and developed until after the Protestant theologians have raised the covenant somewhat.”27 Paul directly contradicts

26 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 27 Journey l magazineCovenant Theology Journey l magazine

this view when he distinguishes the This is one subject upon which all national Israel and its law have been James T. Dennison, Jr. (Phillipsburg, NJ: P & R formed Perspective (Eugene, OR: Wipf and Stock, Publishing, 1997), 2:220, 222; Bavinck, Refomed 2000), 193–207. On Israel as a type of the church, two covenants in Galatians 3:17–18. covenant theologians agree. The New permanently replaced by the church Dogmatics, 3:197, 221 and passim. also see Waltke, “Kingdom Promises as Spiritual,” Berkhof also asserts that the cov- Testament church has replaced Israel and the New Covenant.…The Jewish 17 Edward J. Young, The Study of Old Testament 276–79, and R. T. France, Jesus and the Old Testa- Theology Today (London: James Clarke, 1958), 69. ment (London: Tyndale, 1971), 67. enant of grace as revealed in the New as the people of God. To put it another nation no longer has a place as the 18 Berkhof, Systematic Theology, 293, 295. 34 Paul D. Feinberg, “Israel and the Land of Pales- Testament “is essentially the same as way, the church is the “new Israel.” special people of God; that place has 19 Hodge, Systematic Theology, 2:374. tine,” paper delivered at the annual meeting of the that which governed the relation of Herman Bavinck wrote, “In the New been taken by the Christian com- 20 Berkhof, Systematic Theology, 295, 570–71. Evangelical Theological Society, Nov. 15, 2000, in Herman Bavinck (Refomed Dogmatics, 3:503), on Nashville, TN. Old Testament believers of God.”28 Testament, the people of Israel have munity which fulfills God’s purpose David J. MacLeod, PhD the other hand, speaks of the Day of Pentecost (Acts 35 William E. Cox, The New Covenant Israel, 3d The Sinai Covenant (or Mosaic for Israel.”32 Mark Karlberg adds that Dave received his theological education at 2) as “the birthday of the church.” ed. (Philadelphia, PA: Presbyterian and Reformed, 21 Scofield, The New Scofield Reference Bible, 1963), 18–20. Covenant) and the New Covenant Israel is a type of the church. The Dallas Theological Seminary (Th.M., Ph.D). 36 Oswald T. Allis, Prophecy and the Church (Phil- are essentially the same because they shadow has given way to reality and In the past he has taught at Western Bible adelphia, PA: Presbyterian and Reformed, 1964), College (now Colorado Christian Univer- 57–58; Stephen Sizer, Zion’s Christian Soldiers? are both phases of the overriding “national Israel can no longer retain sity) and Dallas Theological Seminary. He is (Nottingham, UK: InterVarsity Press, 2007), 80. 37 covenant of grace.29 The covenant of any independent status whatever.”33 presently Dean for Biblical Studies at Emmaus John Calvin, The Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Hebrews and the First and Second grace is the same in that the Mediator Covenant Theology’s view that Bible College and serves as Associate Editor of Epistles of St. Peter, trans. William P. Johnston of the covenant is the same yesterday, the church has replaced Israel means, The Emmaus Journal. He frequently ministers (Grand Rapids, IL: Eerdmans, 1961), 30 the Word across the U.S. and Canada and at 170–71 (comments on Heb. 11:13–16). today, and forever, Hebrews 13:8. of course, that Israel is not destined 38 his home church where he served for a number Elmer A. Martens, God’s Design: A Focus on However, the prophet Jeremiah says to inherit the land promises under Old Testament Theology (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker, of years as an elder. David and his wife Linda they are different. The New Covenant a Davidic king. Proponents of the 1981), 258–60. I WOULD LIKE TO have four grown children. 39 Anthony A. Hoekema, The Bible and the Future is “not like” the old (Sinai) covenant, AFFIRM THAT MANY system do not agree, however, on what COVENANT (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1979), 276. Hoek- which Israel broke (Jer. 31:31–33). to do with these promises. There are ema’s view that the land promises will be fulfilled THEOLOGIANS GO literally on the new Earth. Three observations are in PROPONENTS OF THE 34 Again Paul contradicts this view when a variety of views: (1) The promise order: (1) His view overturns the traditional view 1 he distinguishes the two in 2 Corinthi- of the land was conditioned on Israel’s For surveys of the history of Covenant Theology, WAY BEYOND THE of Covenant Theology that the land promises either SYSTEM HAVE BEEN see Charles S. McCoy and J. Wayne Baker, Foun- ans 3:3–11. The Sinai Covenant was obedience. Israel disobeyed and the were invalidated at the time of the exile, fulfilled at OUTSTANDING tainhead of Federalism: Heinrich Bullinger and the EVIDENCE IN ARGUING the end of the exile, or are being fulfilled spiritually in an external covenant written on tab- promise was invalidated. (2) The Covenantal Tradition (Louisville: Westminster/John the church—either now or in heaven. (2) His view Knox, 1991), 11–79; Peter Golding, Covenant lets of stone, while the new covenant CHRISTIANS, AND promise of the land was fulfilled at the THAT THE COVENANT ignores the OT context of the land promises, i.e., that Theology (Geanies House, UK: Mentor, 2004), they are made to a redeemed ethnic Israel. (3) His is an internal covenant written on the I COMMEND THEIR time of the conquest of Canaan (Josh. 13–66. OF GRACE IS THE view has no place for the establishment of the Davidic 2 Definition adapted from Louis Berkhof, Systematic tablets of human hearts. The Sinai 21:43–45)35 or the united monarchy (1 kingdom in Israel during the Millennial Age. EMPHASIS ON THE Theology, 4th ed. (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, CENTER OF THE Covenant was a ministry of death, but Ki. 4:20–24; 8:56).36 (3) The promise 1949), 212. 3 the New Covenant is a ministry of life. GRACE OF GOD, THE will be fulfilled in the future when the The summaries of the covenants given here are BIBLE’S THEOLOGY. adapted from Charles Hodge, Systematic Theology The Sinai Covenant was a ministry of ATONING WORK OF redeemed are all in heaven. In short, (New York, NY: Scribner, 1872; reprint ed., Grand 7, note on Gen. 3:15; Chafer, Systematic condemnation, but the New Cov- the land was a symbol of heaven.37 Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1975), 2:117–22, 358–77; Theology, 1:42. CHRIST, AND Berkhof, Systematic Theology, 211–18, 262–71. 22 This critique is adapted from Charles C. Ryrie, 4 enant is a ministry of righteousness. (4) The land promise was an Old Hodge, Systematic Theology, 2:359. Dispensationalism, rev. and expanded ed. (Chicago, 5 Furthermore, the author of Hebrews JUSTIFICATION BY Testament symbol of the abundant Adapted from Berkhof, Systematic Theology, 271. IL: Moody, 2007), 222–26; and Renald E. Show- See S. Lewis Johnson, “The Mysterious Council uses Greek words that indicate that life enjoyed by believing Christians.38 ers, There Really Is a Difference! A Comparison of FAITH ALONE. Chamber, or: the Covenant of Redemption” (unpub- Covenant and Dispensational Theology (Bellmawr, the New Covenant was not only new (5) The land promises will be fulfilled lished lecture, Dallas, TX: Believers Chapel, 1985). NJ: Friends of Israel, 1990), 19–25. 6 in time (neos, 12:24), but also new in been replaced by the church of Christ, literally but not in the Millennium. Lewis Sperry Chafer, Systematic Theology (Dallas, 23 Paul S. Karleen, “Understanding Covenant TX: Dallas Seminary Press, 1947), 1:42. Theologians: A Study in Presuppositions,” GTJ 10 7 kind (kainos, 8:8, 13; 9:15). He clearly which is now the ‘holy nation, the Rather, they will be fulfilled in the Hodge, Systematic Theology, 2:117; Berkhof, (1989): 125–38 (esp. 133). 39 Systematic Theology, 211. 24 John S. Feinberg, “Systems of Discontinuity,” in states that the Sinai Covenant was chosen race, the royal priesthood’ of new Earth. Not only will the land 8 Herman Bavinck, Refomed Dogmatics, trans. John Continuity and Discontinuity, 63–86 (esp. 84–85). 31 abrogated by God and replaced by the God.” Noted Old Testament scholar promises not be fulfilled in the Mil- Vriend (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker, 2006), 3:203. 25 See Alva McClain, The Greatness of the Kingdom 9 New Covenant with its new priest- and covenant theologian, Bruce lennium, but the promise of a Davidic J. N. Darby, Letter in The Bible Treasury 8, No. (Chicago, IL: Moody, 1968). See, especially, the 180 (May 1, 1871), 267. chapter, “The Blessings of the Prophetic Kingdom,” 10 th hood (7:11, 12). Waltke, wrote, “[One side] of the NT dynasty will not be fulfilled in the William Kelly, The Minor Prophets, 5 ed. (Lon- 217–254. Fifth, Covenant Theology errs in coin bears the hard imprint that no Millennium either. ? don: C. A. Hammond, 1874), 40–41. 26 Hodge, Systematic Theology, 2:367. 11 C. I. Scofield, ed., The New Scofield Reference 27 its doctrine of Supersessionism, i.e., its clear passage teaches the restoration Berkhof, Systematic Theology, 297. Bible, chairman of editorial committee, E. Schuyler 28 Berkhof, Systematic Theology, 299–300. belief that the church has superseded of national Israel, its reverse side is English (New York, NY: Oxford, 1967), 5 (note on 29 Berkhof, Systematic Theology, 299–300. Gen. 2:16). 30 Berkhof, Systematic Theology, 279. or replaced Israel in the plan of God. imprinted with the hard fact that 12 Berkhof, Systematic Theology, 276. 31 Bavinck, Reformed Dogmatics, 4:296. 13 Berkhof, Systematic Theology, 273, 276. 32 Bruce K. Waltke, “Kingdom Promises as Spiri- 14 Berkhof, Systematic Theology, 288–89. tual,” in Continuity and Discontinuity, ed., John 15 Berkhof, Systematic Theology, 277. S. Feinberg (Westchester, IL: Crossway, 1988), 16 Francis Turretin, Institutes of Elenctic Theol- 263–87 (esp. 274–75). ogy 12.7.11, trans. George Musgrave Giger, ed. 33 Mark W. Karlberg, Covenant Theology in Re-

28 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 29 Journey l Divorce: Because of Hardness of Heart Journey l magazine

THE QUESTION OF DIVORCE REMAINS A TEST FOR LEADERS IN THE CHURCH, FOR FAMILIES, AND FOR SOCIETY AT LARGE.

It was just a few days before Jesus would not man separate.” They said to Him, of Eden. So the Pharisees raise the enter Jerusalem for Passion Week when “Why then did Moses command to question of divorce, and the question the Pharisees approached Him with the give a certificate of divorce, and to put of divorce continues to be raised. Jesus question, “Is it lawful for a man to di- her away?” He said to them, “Moses, replies by saying, “Moses, because of vorce his wife for just any reason?” (Mt. because of the hardness of your hearts, the hardness of your hearts, permitted 19:3, NKJV). permitted you to divorce your wives, you to divorce your wives, but from but from the beginning it was not so. the beginning it was not so!” (v. 8, The question was a test for Jesus And I say to you, whoever divorces his emphasis added). that was designed to put Him in wife, except for sexual immorality, and This is what Moses said. opposition to Moses. The question of marries another, commits adultery; and divorce remains a test for leaders in whoever marries her who is divorced When a man takes a wife and the church, for families, and for society commits adultery” (Mt. 19:3–9). marries her, and it happens that she finds at large. Jesus’ answer begins logically no favor in his eyes because he has found The response of Jesus to the trick with a clear and simple definition some uncleanness in her, and he writes question provides a sure foundation for of marriage instituted by God at the her a certificate of divorce, puts it in her a current and biblical view of marriage beginning. hand, and sends her out of his house, and divorce. • Marriage is between a male and when she has departed from his house, The Pharisees also came to Him, a female. and goes and becomes another man’s testing Him, and saying to Him, “Is it wife, if the latter husband detests her and lawful for a man to divorce his wife for • Marriage is a man leaving his writes her a certificate of divorce, puts just any reason?” And He answered father and his mother and it in her hand, and sends her out of his and said to them, “Have you not read cleaving to his wife. house, or if the latter husband dies who that He who made them at the begin- • Marriage is the physical union of took her as his wife, then her former hus- ning ‘made them male and female,’ the husband and the wife. band who divorced her must not take her and said, ‘For this reason a man shall DIVORCE • Marriage is permanent until back to be his wife after she has been de- BECAUSE OF leave his father and mother and be death. filed; for that is an abomination before the joined to his wife, and the two shall LORD, and you shall not bring sin on the become one flesh’? So then, they are land which the LORD your God is giving no longer two but one flesh. Therefore Divorce was not a subject at the you as an inheritance (Dt. 24:1–4). HARDNESS OF HEART what God has joined together, let institution of marriage in the Garden By David A. Glock

30 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 31 Journey l Divorce: Because of Hardness of Heart Journey l magazine

DIVORCE WAS NOT A SUBJECT AT THE INSTITUTION OF MARRIAGE IN THE GARDEN OF EDEN.

Jesus reestablishes the original manent unmarried state solidifies the Now to the married I command, yet covenant of marriage. Desertion vio- intent from the beginning, that is, argument when He states that all men not I but the Lord: A wife is not to depart lates the “leave and cleave” vow of the marriage is a permanent relationship cannot receive the call to the celibate from her husband. But even if she does covenant of marriage. Violation of ei- not to be put asunder by man! He also state—hence the option to marriage depart, let her remain unmarried or be ther vow renders a broken covenant— makes an exception: “And I say to from God’s perspective is celibacy, but reconciled to her husband. And a husband to be restored by confession, forgiveness you, whoever divorces his wife, except all do not have that gift. is not to divorce his wife. But to the rest I, and restoration if possible; but divorce, for sexual immorality, and marries an- It is this same language regarding not the Lord, say: If any brother has a wife if not possible. David A. Glock other, commits adultery; and whoever celibacy that Paul uses in his contribu- who does not believe, and she is willing to As church leaders consider matters Dave is a graduate of Emmaus, Philadelphia marries her who is divorced commits tion to the biblical teaching on live with him, let him not divorce of marriage and divorce the College of Bible, and Dallas Theological adultery” (Mt. 19:9). the permanency of the marriage her. And a woman who has a following points may help Seminary. He has taught at Emmaus since relationship. husband who does not believe, in coming to reasonable con- 1968 and served as Dean of Education for most of that period. He serves as an elder if he is willing to live with her, clusions: emeritus at Asbury Community Chapel. Now concerning the things of which let her not divorce him. For • Are the biblical rules Dave has four children, all of whom serve in you wrote to me: It is good for a man not the unbelieving husband is for marriage incumbent on Assembly ministries, fourteen grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. to touch a woman. Nevertheless, because sanctified by the wife, and the the race? of sexual immorality, let each man have unbelieving wife is sanctified by his own wife, and let each woman have the husband; otherwise your chil- • Does God accommodate her own husband. Let the husband render dren would be unclean, but now Himself to human failures in to his wife the affection due her, and they are holy. But if the unbeliever the course of life? Unfaithfulness in marriage, part likewise also the wife to her husband. The departs, let him depart; a brother or • Does conversion remove the limita- of the vows of marriage based upon wife does not have authority over her own a sister is not under bondage in such tions of previous life situations? THE Holy Scripture, is a legitimate cause body, but the husband does. And likewise cases. But God has called us to peace. • Identify the two biblical exceptions for divorce—after all, sexual immoral- For how do you know, O wife, whether the husband does not have authority over for divorce. HUMPTY ity violates the covenant of “the two his own body, but the wife does. Do not you will save your husband? Or how shall be one flesh.” The covenantal deprive one another except with consent do you know, O husband, whether you • Is there a situation of life that DUMPTY relationship is broken by the sinful act for a time, that you may give yourselves will save your wife? (1 Cor. 7: 10–16, requires a permanent action of PRINCIPLE and hence the unique relationship is to fasting and prayer; and come together emphasis added). discipline? destroyed. Forgiveness and restoration again so that Satan does not tempt you • In matters of church discipline, is are desirable, but divorce is permissible because of your lack of self-control. Paul introduces a second possible a unanimous position necessary for from the statement, “except for sexual But I say this as a concession, not as a just cause for divorce—abandonment, action? It’s hardto unscramble immorality.” commandment. For I wish that all desertion. This desertion is on the The response of the apostles to men were even as I myself. But each part of an unbeliever in a marriage of With new Christians coming with the Lord’s rigid restriction as con- one has his own gift from God, one in a believer and an unbeliever. Again, a complexity of baggage concerning the egg! trasted with their societal understand- this manner and another in that. But the continuance of the relationship is marriage, grace and truth must be ing of divorce is amusing if it were not I say to the unmarried and to the widows: to be preferred, perhaps leading to a exercised with the discernment of so serious. It is good for them if they remain even as conversion. godly leadership. The combination of “If such is the case of the man I am; but if they cannot exercise self- Recall the two elements of a conflicting failures often cannot be har- with his wife, it is better not to marry” control, let them marry. For it is better to marriage relationship—leaving and monized through a single solution. The (Mt. 19:10). marry than to burn with passion (1 Cor. cleaving; and one flesh. Unfaithfulness Humpty Dumpty “principle” prevails: The response of Jesus to a per- 7:1–9, emphasis added). breaks the “one flesh” vow of the It’s hard to unscramble the egg. ?

32 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 33 Journey l Grief and Tragedy in the Family Journey l magazine

Blessed be the God and Father of our God knows our frame. We are God, who gives to all liberally and with- Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies dust, temporal, finite. “He knows our out reproach, and it will be given to him. and God of all comfort, who comforts us frame; He remembers that we are dust” But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, in all our tribulation, that we may be able (Ps. 103:14). for he who doubts is like a wave of the to comfort those who are in any trouble, God is rich in mercy. “That you sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let Grief and Tragedy with the comfort with which we ourselves may be sons of your Father in heaven; not that man suppose that he will receive are comforted by God (2 Cor. 1:3–4, for He makes His sun rise on the evil anything from the Lord (Jas. 1:5–7). NKJV). and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust” (Mt. 5:45). Severe crises are not necessar- in the Family In a fallen world, grief and tragedy God cares for His own. “Casting ily the result of divine punishment. are very much a part of human history. all your care upon Him, for He cares They may be: “For this reason many For those of us who know the true and for you” (1 Pet. 5:7). are weak and sick among you, and By Dr. Daniel H. Smith living God, “the God of all comfort,” Our great High Priest is touched many sleep (1 Cor. 11:30), but may it is urgent that we know and under- with the feelings of our weaknesses. also be allowed for wholly other stand what He teaches us in His Word “For we do not have a High Priest who reasons: for our own response to grief and trag- cannot sympathize with our weak- edy as well as for our ministry to others nesses, but was in all points tempted as And lest I should be exalted above mea- in the deep waters and dark moments we are, yet without sin” (Heb. 4:15). sure by the abundance of the revelations, We need a theology of human crisis and a theology of grief.

of life. For these we need a theology of Testing and tempting are re- a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a human crisis and a theology of grief. lated—but distinct. “Let no one say messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I Think through these: when he is tempted, ‘I am tempted be exalted above measure. Concerning by God,’ for God cannot be tempted this thing I pleaded with the Lord three by evil, nor does He Himself tempt times that it might depart from me. And A Theology of Human Crisis anyone” (Jas. 1:13). He said to me, “My grace is sufficient God is omniscient. He knows the In God’s protection of His own, for you, for My strength is made perfect end from the beginning. There is no He controls the timing, nature, and in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I surprise or crisis with Him. severity of life’s traumas. will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, O LORD, You have searched me and No temptation has overtaken you except in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, known me. You know my sitting down such as is common to man; but God is in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when and my rising up; You understand faithful, who will not allow you to be I am weak, then I am strong (2 Cor. my thought afar off. You comprehend tempted beyond what you are able, but 12:7–10). my path and my lying down, and are with the temptation will also make the Invitations/commands to pray and acquainted with all my ways. For there is way of escape, that you may be able to (1 Cor. 10:13) trust God specifically include times not a word on my tongue, but behold, O bear it of crisis/ need. “Let us therefore come LORD, You know it altogether. You have God’s resources are unlimited, boldly to the throne of grace, that we hedged me behind and before, and laid and available to us as we need/ask/ may obtain mercy and find grace to Your hand upon me. Such knowledge is merit within His purposes for us. help in time of need” (Heb. 4:16). too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain it (Ps. 139: 1–6). If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God may choose intervention

34 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 35 Journey l Grief and Tragedy in the Family Journey l magazine

that is providential/supernatural. of every life event. God reserves the • God Responds to Our Grief • Grief Is Potentially Facilitated “Then the angel of the LORD went prerogative to have some secrets. “The Recording our tears (See Psalm 56:8.) by Various Expressions The ABC Method of Crisis Intervention out, and killed in the camp of the secret things belong to the LORD Songs (See 2 Samuel 1:17–27.) Assyrians one hundred and eighty- our God, but those things which are Sympathizing with our weakness Howard W. Stone (See Hebrews 4:15–16.) Poetry (See Lamenations 1–5.) five thousand; and when people arose revealed belong to us and to our chil- A - Achieving contact with the person in crisis early in the morning, there were the dren forever, that we may do all the Eventually ending our grief (From: Norman Wright, Crisis & attending behavior—communicate concern, practical helps corpses—all dead” (Isa. 37:36). words of this law” (Dt. 29:29). (See Isaiah 65:19; Revelation 21:4.) Trauma Counseling, Regal) Characteristically He uses The believer has the confidence listening—listen carefully, patiently, look at them human instruments. that, in the might and gracious • Grief Measures the Meaning Crisis and grief bring both height- the “ministry of presence” is important purposes/hand of God, in events in of our Attachments ened psychological accessibility and pray—with them, for them So they took Jeremiah and cast him into the “maze of life” God is at work Our attachment to friends heightened spiritual vulnerability. the dungeon of Malchiah the king’s son, for His glory and our good. “And we Lives can be touched in significant (See John 11:36.) B - Boiling down the problem to its essentials which was in the court of the prison, and know that all things work together for ways when people are in crisis. It is a they let Jeremiah down with ropes. And good to those who love God, to those Our attachment to family pivotal time, and whether the indi- lead them to define what has happened, what they are feeling in the dungeon there was no water, but who are the called according to His (See Genesis 50:1.) vidual will go on to misdirection and respond with verbal and nonverbal communication mire. So Jeremiah sank in the mire. Now purpose” (Rom 8:28). defeat or recovery and growth is an help with few, open-ended questions • Grief Potentially Interrupts Ebed-Melech the Ethiopian, one of the respond with brief, specific statements eunuchs, who was in the king’s house, Life’s Routines focus on issues, threats heard that they had put Jeremiah in the Leaving mourner with little appetite allow pauses, time to reflect dungeon. When the king was sitting at (See 2 Samuel 12:17.) the Gate of Benjamin, Ebed-Melech Causing mourner to wish for death went out of the king’s house and spoke (See 2 Samuel 18:33.) C - Coping actively with the problem to the king, saying: “My lord the king, help them evaluate and mobilize their resources, develop a plan of action… these men have done evil in all that they Multiplying mourner’s illness and make a decision, accept a loss… have done to Jeremiah the prophet, whom God is Omniscient. He knows death (See 1 Samuel 4:18-22.) The Bible Dignifies grief they have cast into the dungeon, and he examine alternative courses of action is likely to die from hunger in the place the end from the Beginning. • Grief Potentially Persists Over by presenting it as a take inventory of resources—include faith and wisdom from God where he is. For there is no more bread an Extended Period of Time establish goals—short term, long term in the city.” Then the king commanded There is no surprise or For seven days (See Genesis 50:10.) god-given, therapeutic get a commitment to action Ebed-Melech the Ethiopian, saying, For 30 days (See Numbers 20:29.) follow-up—show interest in their continued well-being “Take from here thirty men with you, crisis with him. response to loss. referral—team effort may be the best help, get them in contact with and lift Jeremiah the prophet out of the For 70 days (See Genesis 50:3.) people or agencies that can give focused help dungeon before he dies.” So Ebed-Melech took the men with him and went into • Grief Is Potentially Expressed pray with them, for them the house of the king under the treasury, in a Variety of Ways important concern. New Testament Our Savior moves His people to be His ambassadors in evangelism and and took from there old clothes and old A Theology of Grief Before a loss (See Matthew 26:37–38.) shepherds and people-helpers will reconciliation. He also moves them to be His ambassadors to those with rags, and let them down by ropes into the prayerfully move toward those in crisis, The Bible dignifies grief by presenting By shock, numbness or denial whom they walk as caring guides, to know and follow the Good Shepherd dungeon to Jeremiah. Then Ebed-Melech with intervention enabled by the it as a God-given, therapeutic response (See Mark 8:31-32.) through shadowed valleys. the Ethiopian said to Jeremiah, “Please to loss. Spirit of God. A working knowledge of put these old clothes and rags under your In anger (See Job 10:9.) Scripture is vital and essential. armpits, under the ropes.” And Jeremiah • God Grieves One recommended source of Daniel H. Smith, EdD did so. So they pulled Jeremiah up with The Father grieves over evil Noah’s Through bargaining help for crisis intervention is: Howard Dan has been involved with the ministry of Emmaus for 53 years, and ropes and lifted him out of the dungeon. (See Isaiah 38:1–22.) Stone, Crisis Counseling (revised) day. (See Genesis 6:6.) has served as a faculty member to the present. He served as President of And Jeremiah remained in the court of the Fortress Press. Here is a brief summary The Son grieves over the death of with depression the college from 1975-2000, and currently serves as Chancellor. Dan prison (Jer. 38:6–13). of his “ABC Method of Crisis Inter- Lazarus. (See John 11:35–38.) (See 2 Samuel 12:16-68.) holds a B.A. from Greenville College (Education/Psychology and History/ ? The Spirit grieves over believers’ sin. vention”. Political Science), a Th. B. from Midwest Bible Seminary (Theology with acceptance (See Philippians The Bible never promises that (See Ephesians 4:30.) and Greek), a M. Ed. from the University of Missouri (Counseling) and we will know, in this life, the “why” 1:12, 21–24; 4:11–13.) an Ed. D. from Loyola University (Administration and Leadership). He is an elder emeritus at Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel. Dan and his wife, Martha, have been married for 52 years and are parents of three adult children and 8 grandchildren. 36 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 37 THE Journey l magazine OF THE Genesis 2:24, a key text in our study STATE of marriage and the family, says, “For this reason a man shall leave his father and his all that is, including marriage and sexuality. mother, and be joined to his wife; and they It is God who commanded the man and the shall become one flesh.” Our Lord Jesus woman to have children and form families Christ quoted this text in His own teaching (Gen. 1:28; 2:24–25). It is from the Bible on marriage and divorce. He said this, “The Editor’s Note: This article is an edited that we learn that God is a family-friendly two shall be one flesh. So they are no longer transcription of a message delivered by Alex God. We learn from Scripture that the eter- two, but one flesh. What therefore God has Strauch at the 2012 Iron Sharpens Iron nal, transcendent, holy God is a personal joined together let no man separate.” With conference held on the campus of Emmaus being who has always designed to have a His words, “from the beginning,” our Lord Bible College. family who will dwell with Him forever. made it clear that this one-flesh union was He is truly their Father, and they are His the original intent and design of God. His he title of this article assumes that children. additional comment, “What therefore God the modern family is in trouble. has joined together, let no man separate,” T On what basis do we voice such Humanity Created in the leaves no room for man-made changes (Mt. an opinion? To make such a judgment one Divine Image 19:4–6). must have some way to judge; we need After creating the earth and planting The apostle Paul also quoted Gen- some kind of yardstick or measuring device. vegetation and setting animals upon the esis 2:24, saying this one-flesh union is a This is actually the heart of the problem: earth, God placed on the earth His special profound mystery. He wrote, “I am speaking Who has the authority to judge; who has and unique creation, man and woman. Both with reference to Christ and the church,” the authority to say something is good or the man and the woman equally bore the of which marriage is a parable or symbol. bad or needs to be changed? That is why image of God. They were to be the king and Marriage, then, is a sacred relationship we shall start with the oldest and most queen of the earth, co-rulers with God, tak- unlike any other human relationship (Eph. wisdom-filled book in the world, the Bible. ing dominion over all things. This privilege 5:31–32). The Bible is the God-breathed (divinely was not shared by the animals; they were to In a book that should be read by authored) Word of God and is profitable for be servants of those God created in His im- every elder and be in every church library, teaching, correcting, and preparing people age. Man and woman were to reflect God’s Andreas Köstenberger dismisses the notion for Christian service. What does the Bible will and God’s design. They were made to that marriage is a sacrament or just a mere say about the family? It is because of what have fellowship with God, to love God, and contract. Instead, he argues that marriage is the Bible teaches that we know the modern to walk with God. rightly understood as a covenant, which he family falls short of the divine design. defines as a sacred bond between a man and a woman, instituted by God and publicly The One-Flesh Union of THE CREATION DESIGN entered into before God and normally Man and Woman consummated by sexual intercourse (God A Holy God Who Created All Things Not only did God make man and woman Marriage, and Family [2d ed.], pp. 69–77). The secular humanist says, “In the begin- in His image, He also united them in a one- God made sex! I know that might surprise ning man….” Man is the measure of all flesh union. The relationship of a man and some people because they think that Hugh things; man created God in his own image. woman in marriage is completely unique on Hefner of Playboy magazine invented sex. Man therefore has the right to define all of this earth. Only a married man and woman He did not. It was God’s original design that reality, including marriage and sexuality. share this privilege. It cannot be shared the man and the woman would become The Bible, on the other hand, says, “In the with children or grandchildren, as precious one, and this unity would be seen in the beginning God….” (Gen. 1:1). In the very as they may be. The first man and woman very act of sexual intercourse, which has, in opening chapters of Scripture it is God who joined in this marriage union were Adam the Bible, a sacred aspect to it. created the earth, and it is God who defined and Eve, and the one who married

BY ALEXANDER STRAUCH them was the Lord God (Gen. 2:22–24). Journey: Summer 2013 39 Journey l The State of the Family: The Mess We are In Journey l magazine

Man and Woman Created And, if you don’t kill your children, the family—to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. a positive title, “The Sanctity of Intimacy” God Commands Fathers and Mothers to God Commands Children with Different Roles fruit includes grandchildren. God loves the From these patriarchs came a nation. To (Holiness to the Lord, p. 339). Ross under- Teach the Law to Their Children to Honor Their Fathers and Both Adam and Eve were made in God’s family. And in the first three chapters of this nation God gave His perfect Law to be stood that the chapter is very negative in In Deuteronomy 6:4–9 the Lord said to Mothers image, but the Lord God made the man Genesis the Lord God defined family: male, a witness to the entire world of what a holy that the Lord lists such abominable sexual His people, “Hear, O Israel! The Lord is our In Deuteronomy 5:16 Moses recorded first, and the woman second. He brought female, marriage, children. But sin entered nation should be. It is striking that many sins (incest, vv. 6–14; adultery, v. 20; sacri- God, the Lord is one! You shall love the these words of the Lord, “Honor your into the world. Sin is seen as powerful of these laws are directed to the family and ficing a child to Moloch or devoting him or the woman out of the man, and He brought Lord your God with all your heart and with father and your mother as the Lord the woman to the man. In Genesis 2:18 the monster crouching at the door seeking to sexual relationships. Just a few examples her to temple prostitution, v. 21; homosex- all your soul and with all your might. These your God has commanded you, that Lord God called her a “helper suitable for wreck everything (cf. Gen. 4:7). When sin will help us to judge what God’s intent for uality, v. 22; bestiality, v. 23). Yet Ross also words, which I am commanding you today, your days may be prolonged and that it him.” God made the man to be the head, entered the world, the divine image in man the family is. noted that there is a positive intent to the shall be on your heart. You shall teach them may go well with you in the land which was marred. The man and woman became chapter. In it, God was showing His people the provider, the protector, and the leader. diligently to your sons and shall talk of the Lord your God gives you.” We must gender-confused. They started the war of by negative example the sanctity of biblical The man was to initiate love, cherish his God Warns Against Sexual Perversity them when you sit in your house and when not overlook the fact it is “the Lord your wife, and bear primary responsibility for the the sexes (cf. Gen. 3:16). Furthermore, the As we have already noted, God designed marriage. At first glance the chapter may you walk by the way and when you lie down God” who has said this. This is not just marriage and home. God made the woman relationship with God was broken, and man and woman as sexual beings. There appear to be totally negative, but the Lord’s and when you rise up.” The Law contains someone’s good advice. to be the man’s “helper” (God’s own term), Adam and Eve hid themselves from Him in was nothing sinful or wrong about this intent was to protect Israel from these many rules for life, and here the Lord got Of the Ten Commandments, this is the bearer of children (hence, the design of fear (Gen. 3:10). design—it came from God. Adam and Eve perverse sins and their consequences. to the heart of the matter. His number one the only command with a promise, and the her body), a keeper of home, and a nurturer. The first family experienced the pain were naked together, and it was a beautiful Some time ago I visited an old friend rule is, “I want you to love Me!” If you love promise relates to the land. Why is this im- She is to manage the household, provide of the curse when Cain killed his brother thing (Gen. 2:22–25). It is significant that (a non-Christian), and he pointed to a Me, the Lord seemed to say, the others will portant? Well, the Israelites were about to companionship for her husband and support Abel in a fit of anger, jealousy, and hatred when sin entered the world sexual relations computer. He told me that his teenage son come easily. The Law is not all, “don’t, enter the hostile and depraved land of the his leadership. These distinctive roles are (Gen. 4:5–8; cf. 1 Jn. 3:12). Then the were perverted (e.g., polygamy, Gen. 4:23; was addicted to Internet pornography. He don’t, don’t.” Rather, the Lord wanted to be Canaanites. The Canaanites were a people brought out and repeated throughout the human race became violent, polytheistic demonic activity, Gen. 6:1–4; homosexual- had recently caught him watching scenes of in a loving relationship with His people. He who practiced infanticide, who had sexual New Testament. First Timothy 2; 1 Corin- (many gods), and sexually perverse (Gen- ity, Gen. 19:4–5; rape, Gen. 34:1–2; prosti- bestiality. He said, “My son has been watch- went on to say they are to teach His com- relations with their parents and children. thians 11; Ephesians 5; and 1 Peter 3 all re- esis 4:23; 6:1–4). God repented that He tution, Gen. 38:12–26). This reality leads ing this over and over again.” The grim mandments to their children. The Word of They were people without a law. They were iterate that men and women are equal, but had made man, and decided that He would us to one of the most important chapters in reality is that all of the sins of Leviticus God should be a regular topic of conversa- so degenerate that the Lord God was going they are also different. They have distinct destroy His own creation. Nancy Pearcey all the Bible on sexuality, namely, Leviticus 18 can be seen on the Internet today. One tion—on a walk, in the car, on a bike ride, to exterminate them. How were the Jewish roles created the very day God made them says that Christianity is the only religion 18. In this chapter God warned Israel of the need not go to an adult theater in the seedy at bedtime, and over breakfast. In other families to survive in a land like that? The and brought them to one another. One of that has an explanation for the destructive sexual decadence of the nations. In verse 3 part of town anymore. He can “Google” words, God told Israel, “I want parents to answer is that the parents were to be placed the most tragic things I have seen in my dilemma we see upon this earth called evil the Lord said to Moses, “You shall not do porn in the comfort and privacy of his own teach their children all these fundamental at the center of their children’s lives to ed- lifetime is to watch evangelical scholar after or sin (Total Truth, pp. 84–87). We have a what is done … in the land of Canaan.” He home. He may not actually commit one of lessons. I want you to teach your children ucate them and protect them. The response evangelical scholar walk away from this real explanation. There is a real spirit-be- then described what the people of Canaan these sins, but he can vicariously participate to love Me. And I want you to teach them of the children was to obey and honor doctrine and claim, “All these Scripture ing named Satan, a fallen angel with his did in that land. in them by viewing pornography. Leviticus 18: Don’t follow the pagan culture their parents. King Solomon wrote, “Hear, texts don’t mean what they appear to say. minions, and they do everything they can Before listing Canaan’s perversions, But God said, “You shall follow My in your thoughts and behavior regarding sex my son, your father’s instruction and do They mean the exact opposite. You just to destroy the human race. And the best God said this, “You shall follow My rules.” rules of sexual conduct.” This is really the and marriage.” not forsake your mother’s teaching” (Prov. foundation of family health. Did you know Do you know what the biggest 1:8). The mutual obligations of parents and WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT THE FAMILY? IT IS BECAUSE OF WHAT THE BIBLE the number one cause, worldwide, for problem is in most church youth groups? It children—protection and instruction from the destruction of marriage by divorce is is the parents! It isn’t the kids. These kids one side, and obedience and honor from the TEACHES THAT WE KNOW THE MODERN FAMILY FALLS SHORT OF THE DIVINE DESIGN. adultery? Sexual sins destroy families. I have come from Christian homes, and they know other—is in order that the children might counseled with a number of couples about nothing about the Bible! They are ignorant have long lives uncontaminated by the this very sin. I have sat there as a referee as of spiritual things. They have no ability to Canaanites and their filthy ways. A stable have to be clever enough to know how to way to destroy the human race is to destroy “You, Israel, My holy people, my separate the husband or the wife would tell his or her judge what they’re seeing on TV because home is the centerpiece of God’s protection reinterpret them.” the family. people, you are to follow My laws of sexual spouse, “I am in a sexual affair with another the parents have not been talking to them, of His people. God’s creation-design for marriage and conduct” (Lev. 18:4, paraphrased). Various person.” The surprise, anger, sorrow, and walking with them, and communicating the family is our first measuring device or disappointment are terrible to see. In one The Family Created for the descriptive words are used to describe with them about the things of God. They God Commands Israel Not to Marry yardstick for evaluating the modern family. situation, I was afraid the husband would at- Procreation of the Human Race Canaanite transgressions against these expect the church youth group to do it. The Outside the Covenant Nation Our second measuring device is the Law of tack his wife and beat her to a pulp in front God loves mathematics but especially laws: “lewdness” (v. 17), “abominations” youth leaders can only do a certain amount, It was God’s will that His people not inter- God given to the holy nation of Israel. of me (he didn’t). In another situation I saw multiplication! He said to the first couple, (vv. 22, 27, 29, 30), “perversion” (v. 23), but they cannot do what a parent can do. marry with their pagan neighbors. Solomon a man just wilt and become nothing before “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth” “defilement” (vv. 24, 25, 27, 28, 30). These The Lord’s command is this: In the natural did not heed this advice and his behavior GOD’S HOLY LAW FOR A HOLY NATION me. So much for modern sexual freedom. (Gen. 1:28). For procreation there needs to are God’s own descriptions of the Canaan- daily situations of life we are to be speaking basically destroyed the nation. To remedy the curse and the degeneration be a male and a female, sperm and an egg. ites and their behavior. Old Testament to our children about the Word of God. of the human race God called a family The fruit of the marriage bond is children. commentator Alan Ross gave Leviticus 18 This is the parents’ responsibility. to Himself. He revealed Himself to this

40 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 41 Journey l The State of the Family: The Mess We are In Journey l magazine

His many foreign wives turned is not relevant for today.” The result is that Homosexuality rality (adultery), and their comment is, “I also illustrated by “Sex Week at Yale,” a The Rejection of God’s his heart away from the Lord and we’ve lost our moral compass. Ours is a It is significant that when Satan entered the am putting him away.” Forty-five million nine-day series of lectures, panels, and spe- Design for Marriage toward pagan gods (1 Ki. 11:4). society full of greed, stealing, murder, rape, world he perverted the beautiful and sacred adults visit cyber sex sites monthly. It’s a cial events, which introduces the student This is probably one of the newest and Nehemiah sharply rebuked the adultery, kidnappings, and false religious gift of marital sex. He perverted and twisted $10 billion industry—the size of a Fortune body to every form of sexual deviance. Yes, most upsetting things that any of us have people of Israel for intermarrying cults. Our newspapers and newsmagazines marriage and he twisted our sexual natures. 250 Enterprise. It is a major part of our this actually takes place annually at one of seen in the last 25 years. For the first time (Neh. 13:23–29). Malachi spoke are filled with examples of a lost society that This is seen today in the explosion of ho- culture today and many of our young people America’s most distinguished universities. in Western civilization, people are now directly about the sin of marrying the cannot find its way. This secular society has mosexuality. Modern statisticians say that are obsessed with it. There’s something Even non-Christian commentators redefining marriage. There is tremendous follower of a foreign god, and explained no word from God! Contemporary people only 3% of the population is homosexual, about pornography that destroys the have expressed concern over this. Their confusion over the very nature of marriage. that God “was seeking godly offspring” are without moral and ethical absolutes— but this small group of people has wielded spiritual life and shuts the mouth, that is, concern is a small sign that America hasn’t What is marriage? The big issue, of course, (Mal 2:15). The book of Proverbs is full without standards from God. What they’re influence way out of proportion to their it seems to keep men from speaking about gone all the way to a Canaanite society. is same-sex marriage. The issue is front-page of family advice. Parents, see: Proverbs 10:1; left with is opinion, preference, cultural numbers. They have intimidated everybody spiritual things. I believe one of the reasons The reason is that our culture’s conscience news and is being debated in every state in 11:29; 13:22, 24; 14:1, 11, 26; 15:27; 17:6, consensus, decisions of the courts, sociologi- and have caused many to fear being labeled for this is because marriage is a sacred, still rejects many of these things as wrong. the United States. Gay marriage is right 25; 19:13, 18; 20:7, 29; 22:6, 15; 23:13–14, cal surveys, and moral relativism. hateful or intolerant. They have invaded holy balm that illustrates Christ and His Incest and pedophilia are still viewed by in front of us, coming down the tracks at 24–25; 24:3–4, 27; 25:24; 27:11; 29:15, So whenever we talk about family or major institutions, such as education, the church, and when you play with Internet most as wrong, but the rapid decline in 100 miles an hour, and it is not going away. 17, 19, 21; 31:2. Children, see: Proverbs sexuality, the first thing we have to do is to news media, the entertainment world, the adultery (porn), it is very destructive to the other areas doesn’t inspire hope for our Almost everyone has a relative, friend, or 1:4, 8; 2:1; 3:1, 11–12; 4:1–5, 10–11, 2021; throw down the gauntlet and just say, “We government, and the military. One Penta- Christian spirit. society. acquaintance who claims to be homosexual. 5:1–2; 6:20; 7:1–2; 13:1; 15:5, 19–20, 32; get our information from the Word of God.” gon general, unnamed for fear of reprisal, Children in the seventh and eighth grades 17:2; 19:26; 20:11, 20, 29; 22:15; 23:15–16, Don’t apologize for that, because the Bible said that many in the military objected to Co-habiting Unmarried Couples AIDS and Other Sexually are claiming to believe they are homosex- 22:23; 28:7, 24; 29:3, 15; 30:11, 17; 31:2. is the divinely authored (“God-breathed”) the admission of gays into their ranks, but In Europe living together is the norm, Transmitted Diseases uals. I often suggest to people that they read revelation from God, and it is profitable for would not say so because they would lose and America is rapidly heading in that Sexually transmitted diseased (STDs) Whenever we talk of homosexuality through the book of Proverbs with their teaching in every aspect of life. God’s Word any chance of promotion. Their very liveli- direction. Such a relationship lacks a true are still a major public health issue. It’s there are two things we need to keep in children. Help them to memorize key prov- tells us about marriage. It is the only book hood and benefits would be threatened. sense of commitment and genuine love. an epidemic. Various medications have balance. First, we have to do it with a spirit erbs. Over and over they will read counsel that goes right back to the first marriage On television and in the movies “One night hook-ups” or living together been developed to alleviate the symptoms, of compassion and understanding. When about honoring and obeying their parents. and explains how God ordered this earth. homosexuality is constantly being presented for a longer period are not based on any but nothing will stop the problem except sinners talk about other sinners it can be a Part of God’s plan for the family is that this Thus, when we are discussing homosexual- as a wholesome way of life. The indoctrina- kind of covenant commitment. One study refraining from illicit sex and narcotics tricky business. So we must not be hateful be a teaching home. Children learn the ity, premarital sex, polygamy, or any other tion of children through the curriculum in shows that 95% of unmarried couples who administered by needles. or make jokes about this; it is a serious mat- things of God in the home, not just in the transgressive behavior, we must simply say, schools K-12 is already happening in many are living together expect monogamy from ter. Second, we need a sense of fearlessness, meetings of the church. The home is where “The Bible is our standard. This is the book places. Children are being encouraged to be their partner. Without a marriage cov- Illegitimate Births boldness, and faithfulness to what God says; children should get the Ph.D. of life. The from which we get our information.” If, open to all sorts of marriage arrangements. enant, however, many such couples end up Forty percent of all American births are we have to speak up. We should be thankful home is not only where they learn to speak instead of the Bible, we get our information Hate-speech legislation is just around disappointed. illegitimate. Forty-five percent of unmarried for all those who are boldly standing up to and walk; it is also the place where they and standards from the world of statistics, the corner. Public opposition to sexual couples living together are raising children, the proponents of gay marriage and being learn their values and the proper attitudes the world of opinion, or the latest survey, perversion will no longer be tolerated. Such The Explosion of Teen Sexual Activity but it is not a happy situation. People are mocked and humiliated for it. toward the Lord, the family, other people, we shall lose every time. We have a word tolerance of sexual “diversity” is the “new About 40 percent of ninth graders say not happier because they now have the Today the homosexual lobby is on and possessions. God made the home to from God on this subject, and that must be good.” We must remember the courageous teach His ways and to perpetuate a people our authority. words of Isaiah, “Woe to those who call evil who would love and serve Him. good, and good evil” (Isa. 5:20). THE RELATIONSHIP OF A MAN AND WOMAN IN MARRIAGE IS COMPLETELY UNIQUE ON Having considered God’s measuring A Rejection of God’s Law for sticks (His creation design and His holy Governing Human Sexuality Pornography THIS EARTH. ONLY A MARRIED MAN AND WOMAN SHARE THIS PRIVILEGE. law) we should have a proper perspective. The 1960s saw the birth of the modern “sex Enemy #1 in the church and family is Now we want to consider the current real- revolution,” a revolt against the biblical pornography. It begins with an attack upon they have had sexual intercourse. Around freedom to do as they please. They are actu- a mission, and nothing will stop them. ity, the modern, secular family. teaching on sexual morality. The Canaan- young minds. The average age of addic- 50 percent of high school students admit ally more miserable. A number of years ago They may lose a vote here and there, ites had their own sexual revolution, and tion to pornography is 11. It’s a big issue that they have had sexual intercourse. several surveys were published indicating but they will come right back tomorrow THE MODERN WESTERN SECULAR FAMILY the results are described in Leviticus 18. Yet in today’s family. I’ve talked to a number And American universities have become, the happiest couples sexually were those to argue their cause. Our country—the A Rejection of the Divine Authority as the people of Israel were about to enter of wives—Christian wives—who say their according to Christianity Today, “dorm who were in long-term marital relation- whole culture—is changing. The influence of the Word of God Canaan God warned them, “Obey My rules; husbands no longer have sexual relations brothels.” This is illustrated in graphic, ships. This should not surprise us because of television, movies, liberal (apostate) As I look at the modern Western family, the you are not to do what is done in the land with them because they get all of their pornographic detail in Tom Wolfe’s novel, that was God’s design from the beginning. Christianity, and the educational elite all first thing I have to say is this: There is an of Canaan” (Lev. 18:3–5, paraphrased). sexual fulfillment online. I know Chris- I am Charlotte Simmons, a novel/sociolog- Hebrews 13:4 says, “Marriage is to be held insure that homosexual practice and gay out-and-out, cold-and-calculated rejection tian women who are now divorcing their ical study about today’s modern university in honor among all, and the marriage bed is marriage will become the new normal. Such of the divine authority of the Word of God. husbands because of their porn addictions. (see review by Joel Belz, “Vile and Vulgar,” to be undefiled.” practices will not be adopted by everyone— The prevailing attitude says, “That old book These women have concluded it is immo- World Magazine [June 17, 2006], 3). It is the race has to propagate itself—but they

42 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 43 Journey l The State of the Family: The Mess We are In Journey l magazine

will be accepted as legitimate alternatives viewed as legitimately available to each the essential elements of marriage, love, and who’s been deserted and left in total pov- erties. In many ways this is the fundamental F. Will wrote in one his memorable to heterosexual acts and marriages. I expect other as sexual or romantic partners. This commitment were indeed present. “She’s erty. We’ve had a number of divorces over problem. If there’s anything that destroys columns, “As the American family to see the day when anyone who speaks out relatively new movement has come right on gorgeous; she’s sweet; she’s loving. I’m very the years at our chapel. They are terrible the family, it’s the “me first” mentality. goes, so goes the nation. The inter- against homosexuality will be accused of a the heels of same-sex marriage. It is openly proud of her, and I’d love to have children things. I recently sat with a man whose This is especially true among men. I call generational transmission of poverty hate crime and be arrested and fined. This defended by the “Alternatives to Marriage with her.” He was asking to marry his horse, wife had left him. The agony he was going it perverse selfishness. “My happiness may is produced by the disintegration of has already happened in Scandinavia and Project.” In Slate Online magazine Michael Pixel. They have been in love for 22 years! through, and the agony of the wife of the ruin that of another person, but I know the American family structure. Today’s Canada. Kinsley goes one step further in his article, Ancient Canaanite practices demon- other adulterous spouse was going through God wants me happy.” I’ve heard it and family’s disintegration is one of the prin- How, we might ask, has this little “Abolish Marriage” (July 2, 2003). “Let’s strate that lack of a divine standard can lead ripped the heart out of my chest. Divorce you’ve heard it: “I’m leaving my wife and cipal causes of poverty. Family structure group taken over the entertainment world, really get the government out of our bed- to perverse practices. If a man can marry a brings mental agony, misery, loneliness, a five children because God wants me to almost certainly now is, as Moynihan and the government, and the education estab- rooms….The solution is to end the institu- man, if society cannot agree on a definition missing parent, and financial distress! How be happy. I’ve not been happy.” Actually, many others suspect, the principal conduit lishment? There must be a powerful force tion of marriage. Or rather…the solution is for marriage, if marriage is a private affair, could a pastor say, “It’s no big deal any- God wants you to be holy, and when you of class structure” (Rocky Mountain News behind the gay lobby. That force has to be to end the institution of government-sanc- they why can’t a man marry his horse? Why more?” are holy, you’ll learn to be happy. But our [April 9, 1989]). Satan and his demons. We know that God tioned marriage.” Stanley Kurtz in National can’t he marry five women? Why can’t a culture is hedonistic, so one’s personal It is truly a tragedy beyond words, and calls homosexuality degrading, unnatural, Review Online (“Abolish Marriage,” July group marry a group? Once we legislate that Gender-Neutral Marriages happiness trumps everything else. We were it comes back to the selfishness of males. indecent, and an abomination (Rom. 7, 2006) notes the irony. Proponents of a man can marry a man, or a woman can William Manchester, the famous historian counseling a young couple who were on How many males just walk out of the home? 1:26–27; Lev. 18:22). Even some evangel- same-sex marriage have argued that gay marry a woman, then the small Mormon and biographer of Winston Churchill, the brink of divorce. You might think that How many males simply bring children into ical Christians are saying that accepting marriage will strengthen marriage. Instead cults will say, “Well, our case is even more wrote, “The erasure of distinctions between their parents would give them some godly the world and accept no responsibility for homosexual acts and marriage as whole- of strengthening traditional marriage, it has understandable—one man marrying a group the sexes is not only the most striking issue wisdom. Instead, the parents of the young them? What is wrong with these men? Jesus some and legal is really an issue of civil led to calls for its abolition. of women—because that’s been true since of our time, it may be the most profound wife told her, “God would never let you live speaks of Satan as the “father of lies” and rights, justice, and compassion. But this is There’s a certain twisted logic to the beginning of human history.” the race has ever confronted” (“A World in a relationship you’re not happy with.” So “a murderer” (Jn. 8:44). He is the source of untrue. This false argument is based on new Kinsley’s article. If the government wasn’t So, basically the far left is arguing, you Lit Only by Change,” U.S. News & World she told us that. I said to the young woman, much that is destructive of human life and and unheard of definitions. Nevertheless, involved then marriage would be a private need to end the institution of marriage and Report [Oct. 25, 1993], 6). On the author- “What about your husband; he’s very welfare. In fatherless America it is easy to just as the evangelicals gave in to feminism, affair conducted by churches, department get the government out of it, and just let ity of God’s Word, we can safely say that unhappy that you are leaving him.” She see Satan destroying the male, destroying they are now giving in to homosexuality. It’s stores, casinos—or by the people them- people do what they want to do. This, then, God is very concerned about a man being responded, “You’ve got to think of number the family, and destroying the children. His just unbelievable! Their reaction is simply selves. “And, yes,” Kinsley says, “if three is the new paradigm for marriage. It’s here, a man and a woman being a woman. From one.” But what did our Lord Jesus say? He ultimate goal, of course, is the destruction fear of the world. This concession to gay people want to get married, or one person and we will see many fighting for it. the beginning He created these distinctions said, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, of society. Fatherlessness is a huge economic marriage is very destructive to the family. wants to marry herself, and someone else (Mt. 19:4). They’re very important to our he must deny himself, and take up his cross burden to society. It causes crime, alcohol- In fact, it is the “nail in the coffin” to the wants to conduct a ceremony and declare No-Fault Divorce Epidemic psychological health, to our spiritual lives, and follow Me” (Mt. 16:24). We need more ism, and distorted emotions. Thus, many family. Many say, “Well, homosexuality them married, let ’em. If you or your In 1969 California promoted no-fault and to what it means to be human. These denying of self and a lot less of the cult of young men who should be leading in society and same-sex marriage have nothing to do government aren’t implicated, what do you divorce. Until that time marriage was distinctions are part of human health and the self-centered life. and working hard are in the welfare system with marriage.” But they do! Statistics show care?…If marriage were an entirely private considered a permanent union, and divorce part of the family life. When we erase them instead. Fatherless society—it’s a terrible that in countries that have had legal gay affair, all the disputes over gay marriage was rare and very difficult to obtain. The and say there is no difference, we are doing A Fatherless Society thing. irreparable damage to the human race. In his book Fatherless America, David Let’s rejoice in the differences; let’s not Blankenhorn has put his finger on one of Demoralizing Motherhood TODAY THE HOMOSEXUAL LOBBY IS ON A MISSION, AND NOTHING WILL STOP THEM. THEY stamp them out by coming up with clever the major results of the modern view of Motherhood is not prized as it used to be; new ways to deny the clear teaching of the marriage and the home. He writes, “Insofar in some circles it is even despised. Where MAY LOSE A VOTE HERE AND THERE, BUT THEY WILL COME RIGHT BACK TOMORROW TO ARGUE Bible. I am sure that if God spoke out of the as anything can be safely said, it can be we see this most clearly is in what is called sky this very moment and said, “I made the safely said that a society with fewer and the “birth dearth.” The birth dearth is the THEIR CAUSE. OUR COUNTRY—THE WHOLE CULTURE—IS CHANGING. man to be the head of the home, and the fewer fathers is going to need to be a society demographic decline of people groups. It is woman is to be submissive to her husband,” with more and more prisons, police officers when whole societies—entire nations—do marriage for years there are fewer and fewer would become irrelevant.” percentage of people getting divorces was there would be people who would say that and social workers. Fatherlessness is the en- not produce enough children to perpetuate heterosexual people getting married. Once this new way of approaching relatively rare 50 years ago. People just had God was simply trying not to upset the gine driving our big social problems today” themselves. My wife and I were in the home marriage has been accepted, there will be to work out their problems and disagree- religious people. There are theologians and (quoted in Rocky Mountain News [April of a Christian couple in Europe. They were Polyfidelity or Polyamory Marriage an open door to all kinds of bewildering ments. But today, as a result of modern Bible commentators who will not let God 30, 1995], 99-A). Yet in certain cities in handsome and affluent people in occupa- [or Abolish Marriage] combinations: three men and two women, divorce law, more than 50 percent of say what He wants to say. the United States, 80 percent of the homes tions that paid very well. In our conversa- Polyfidelity means “faithful to many,” and one woman and five men, one man and marriages end in divorce. Yet the Lord God are without a father! The father figure is tion they began to preach at us their reasons polyamory means “many loves.” In polyfi- 70 women. Some time ago a Missouri man said, “I hate divorce” (Mal. 2:16). The Cult of the Self-Centered Life very important to young men for disci- for not wanting children. They argued, “It’s delity or polyamory three or more partners told the BBC that his basic civil rights were One pastor remarked, “Divorce is not What are the consequences of rejecting pline, teaching, and for learning authority. financial suicide. It’s a burden.” consider themselves essentially married to denied when he was not allowed to marry a big deal any more.” It’s not a big deal? Tell God’s law? One result is the modern cult of Furthermore fatherless homes create much Financial suicide! Do you want to each other. All members of the group are his long-term companion. He claimed that that to the children; tell that to the spouse self-fulfillment, the society of rights and lib- of the poverty in the country. As George know what financial suicide is? It is our

44 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 45 Journey l The State of the Family: The Mess We are In Journey l magazine

country not having enough children This attitude has come right into the A Consumeristic Society band together in groups not tempered by that when people reject God they don’t just Understand the Times to enter the work force and pay church. It’s hard to get people to make com- Wrong values, enormous debt, covetous- female influence. The Chinese government adopt a position of neutrality; they tend to In 1 Chronicles 12:32 we read, “Of the sons for all of its entitlement programs. mitments. There used to be a time when a ness, and greed also damage the family. For years ago dictated a one-child-per-family maintain that they are “spiritual” and go of Issachar, men who understood the times, Anyone who does not love children person would be a Sunday school teacher many people their job is more important policy. It seemed like a smart solution to into one of the many new movements of with knowledge of what Israel should do, is selfishly perverse. Marriage is not for 20 or 30 years. Nowadays if they serve than their children. Jesus warned time and their perceived “population explosion.” today. The number of New Age bookstores their chiefs were two hundred.” At the time just a private affair; there is a public six months they think they’ve dedicated again of consumerism, the lust for posses- Now, after decades of aborting baby girls, has doubled in the past five years to about of the transfer of the kingdom from Saul responsibility that goes with it, and that their lives to Christ! God has made us for sions that says, “I’ve got to have more” (Mt. they have other kinds of explosions on their 2,500. More than 30,000 publishers of cult to David, God graciously provided David is bearing the children who will make community. We get through this world 6:19–21). The Lord will take care of our hands, an explosion of rapes, homosexual- books and journals have put New Age many powerful warriors and skilled leaders. up the next generation of human beings. with the communities that surround us: our needs if we put His things first. “But seek ity, and violence. thinking (or modern “Spirituality”) into a From the tribe of Issachar He gave him 200 And at the heart of this enterprise are families, friends, and local churches. God first His kingdom and His righteousness, $1 billion industry. And be assured, none of chiefs who knew what to do. This was a the women who will bear and care for these loves community. In fact, there’s going to and all these things will be added to you” Loss of Truth these movements is friendly to the Bible’s time of chaos and near civil war in Israel. children. The author of a recent article on be an eternal community made up of all of (Mt. 6:33).” As theologian David Wells has argued in view of the family. What does the Bible say? The Philistines had already killed Saul raising children said, “Ultimately, children God’s redeemed people. In the meantime, a number of fine books, our present age “They exchanged the glory of the incorrupt- and Jonathan; they took over the whole need time. Not just ‘quality time’ once a let us nurture the community that is our Violence has witnessed the death of truth. When ible God for an image in the form of a cor- northern part of the nation. In this chaotic month. They need time, and you need to own immediate family. In the days of Noah, early in the narrative you have the death of truth, you will have ruptible man….They exchanged the truth time David rose to power. What was he to be there.” Many pressures have been placed of Genesis, God determined to wipe out hu- a society of lies. As we noted above, Jesus of God for a lie” (Rom. 1:23, 25). The fact do? Where was he to start? How could he upon women in our modern society to take A Society of Addicts manity with a flood. Why? “The earth was calls Satan “the father of lies” (Jn. 8:44). As is that modern Western society loves lies; it restore order to the nation? There were 200 them away from this most important of Another corrupter and destroyer of families corrupt in the sight of God, and the earth a result we are told lies about the family, lies lives on lies. The inspired apostle Paul said, men who knew what to do. They under- tasks. is addiction. The prime culprit is alcohol- was filled with violence” (Gen. 6:11). What about sexuality, and lies about maleness and “Professing to be wise, they became fools” stood the times. A number of secular studies have ism—one of the biggest destroyers of health do we see in modern America? It is one of femaleness. Who is behind all this lying? (Rom. 1:22). It seems at times that the We need people in our churches shown the absolute importance of mother- and family. Anyone who is the child of an the most violent countries in the world. We The Bible has pulled the mask off the great bigger the lie, the more our world loves it. It today who understand the times and can hood to a child’s health, education, morals, alcoholic knows the utter misery, heart- have more prisons than any country in the liar; he is Satan, the great enemy of the is a world of lies. articulate the teaching of the Bible, expose and a strong sense of belonging—a sense of ache, anger, sorrow, and destruction that world. We find violence entertaining as is family. He loves destroying families, and the lies of our time, and warn the people of community that begins in a healthy home. an alcoholic parent creates. Our society evidenced in our choice of TV programs he particularly delights in going after the WHAT CAN WE DO? God under their care. The apostle wrote, is an addictive culture. It is a society that and motion pictures. The entertainment males. He hates authority, so he especially I can’t give you the state of Western family “For if the bugle produces an indistinct A Loss of Commitment to Community lives to drink! Social events like marriages, industry—I call it the indoctrination in- hates the authority figure in the family, the without offering some solutions. And as I do sound, who will prepare himself for battle?” The breakdown of home has brought about funerals, anniversaries, birthdays, and dustry—provides a steady diet of violence. father. And so his strategy is to fill the world I must say that I find it interesting that ev- (1 Cor. 14:8). We need to give a clear a loss of community on a broader scale. My holiday parties all revolve around drinking. Year after year the levels of sex and violence with lies. The modern news media and en- ery social problem we are facing in America warning sound to alert people to what is father was of the WWII generation; he died Many people live for the weekend so they increase. Hollywood is always pushing the tertainment media provide a steady stream and Western Europe today is addressed in going on in our secular, humanistic society. recently at age 94. There is a real difference can drink. Ours is also a drugged up culture. envelope in these areas. of lies. The truth is despised or denied and Genesis, the very first book in the Bible. If Local church leaders and parents need to between my father’s generation and mine. Marijuana, heroin, and amphetamines leave all morality is considered relative. Truth we would just follow the divine blueprint, know what’s going on or their children will His was the generation of strong community wrecked families in their wake. A society of The Imbalanced Society is whatever this or that group says is true. our families would be healthy, holy, and be swept away in the tsunami of lies. Unless and joining. He belonged to seven clubs, addicts is not a society that is conducive to The most heinous violence against the That in itself is a lie. We must be careful happy. Sexual purity, the meaning of male they are prepared, our children will be and they were very important to him, espe- family life. family is abortion. Abortion is the killing cially as he got older. Through these clubs of one’s own child— member of one’s own he developed a circle of lifelong friends. He Gambling in Casinos and family. In some cultures there is an imbal- CHILDREN LEARN THE THINGS OF GOD IN THE HOME, NOT JUST IN THE MEETINGS OF THE CHURCH. said to me, “You know, people don’t join Gambling Online ance in the number of boys and girls being clubs anymore. There’s no commitment to For most communities this is a new, growing born. Male children are preferred so female THE HOME IS WHERE CHILDREN SHOULD GET THE PH.D. OF LIFE. one another. There’s not even an interest in problem—a problem that local churches children are aborted. This has led to a seri- or understanding of these things.” have to face. People today are spending ous demographic problem in countries like Today people practice what is called billions of dollars on trips to casinos and China. The United Nations now reports when we sit in front of a TV screen because and female (and fatherhood and mother- completely secularized without even “cocooning.” Cocooning is when someone on Internet gambling. Drained-out bank that in Asia over 100 million women are we are steadily being fed meal after meal hood), the definition of marriage, and the knowing it. Paul said to the Ephesian elders, goes home, shuts the door, and enters the accounts, mortgaged homes, and cashed- missing. They’re not there. Upon learning of lies. And many of these lies are directed procreation of children are all affirmed and “Therefore be on the alert, remembering world of entertainment technology. He or in pension accounts are only a few of the that a child in the mother’s womb is a girl, against the biblical view of sex, marriage, examples of human disobedience are given. that night and day for a period of three she doesn’t need anyone; they have all their harmful results of addiction to gambling. the parents have killed her (100 million of and the family. What can we do in light of the teaching of years I did not cease to admonish each one entertainment around them in the privacy The financial ruin of a family because of her). There are not enough women for the the Bible and the modern mess we are in? with tears” (Acts 20:31). Paul constantly of their homes. And if someone drops by for gambling often leads to the disintegration of men. This imbalance will inevitably lead The Explosion of Religious Cults warned his hearers. We need to warn a visit—for a cup of tea or coffee— they are that family in a divorce court. to more homosexuality. It will also lead to Books on the New Age movement and our congregations of the many new false resentful. Their privacy is being violated, increased violence in the country as larger contemporary spirituality have increased teachings today, the heretical groups who and they do not like it. and larger numbers of unmarried males 10-fold in the last decade. It’s interesting claim to be Christians. There is a Christian

46 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 47 Journey l The State of the Family: The Mess We are In Journey l magazine

worldview, and there is a secular worldview. material universe with all of its life forms oppose God’s plan, and the Lord shows His ality, marriage, and the family. That’s a big battle against secular humanism and against Yet many of our people don’t even know it. is an accident. This is especially so when anger in the worldwide flood (Gen. 6—9), mistake. What they do know are the stars of all these new philosophies that are continu- They’ve got one foot in the world, one foot modern science shows us how complex the but the Lord persists in His determination Hollywood. In fact, they know more about ally coming our way. in the church, and they seem very comfort- universe is. Think, for a moment, of the by calling out Abraham and choosing a the stars of Hollywood than they do about able in their double-mindedness (cf. Jas. DNA molecule. The Bible clearly gives us holy nation. the patriarchs of the Bible. That’s true! TWO CLOSING THOUGHTS 1:8). They see no disconnect in holding two the explanation (cf. Rom. 1:18–20). It not If you think I’m wrong, give your young The Gospel Redeems Families diametrically opposed worldviews. only explains the beginning of all things, Teach the Bible’s Story Line people a test. Their answers about both cat- Perhaps you are reflecting on this essay, Alexander Strauch We need to teach a Christian world- it tells us of the end—a new heaven and a The average Christian does not have a egories (patriarchs and Hollywood actors) and you are thinking, “Well, I don’t come After his Emmaus education, view curriculum as well as apologetics. new earth. mental clue of the story of the Bible, how will shock you. We have to repeatedly—not from a good family with good influences.” Many will say they are not equipped to once every 10 years—teach these things in Alex received his undergraduate the books of the Bible fit together, and Or, “I have not led and taught my family degree from Colorado Christian teach these things. Fortunately, there are Man and Woman as the Image of God the Christian home and in the meetings who’s who in the Bible. They did a study very well.” Just remember, the gospel of University, and went on to earn books and DVDs to help us in the task. I We are not junk in a garbage can. We are of the church. When is the last time you at Wheaton College and other Christian Jesus Christ can redeem a family just as it his Master in Divinity degree from would recommend David Nobel’s book, Un- not just animals. We are the human race colleges of Christian young people who taught these things? Our people need to be redeems individuals. It provides forgiveness, Denver Seminary. For the past taught and retaught these basic, fundamen- new beginnings, guidance, and sanity to our 43 years he has served at Littleton tal truths. There are many books, websites, lives. The gospel is the answer. Bible Chapel. Additionally, he JUST REMEMBER, THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST CAN REDEEM A FAMILY JUST AS IT and DVDs to help us. Let’s awaken our has taught philosophy and New young people. Let’s not just let them be Testament literature at Colorado The Reason for the Mess We Are In REDEEMS INDIVIDUALS. IT PROVIDES FORGIVENESS, NEW BEGINNINGS, GUIDANCE, dragged off by the world. Christian University. A gifted Bible Let me close with quotation from Alexan- teacher and popular speaker, Alex AND SANITY TO OUR LIVES. THE GOSPEL IS THE ANSWER. der Solzhenitsyn’s “Templeton Address.” has helped thousands of churches Build Strong Christian It was delivered at Buckingham Palace worldwide through his expository Church Communities on May 10, 1983, when Solzhenitsyn was writing ministry. Alex resides with derstanding the Times (2nd ed.). He gives that bears the divine image of God, and it is had been raised in Christian homes. The In the battle against secularism we have to awarded the Templeton Prize for Progress his wife, Marilyn, in Littleton, an excellent overview of what is happening sacred and it is holy. We need to respect all students were given a series of names: Sol- stand together. No one can do this alone. in Religion. It did not make all his listener’s Colorado and has four married in the world today including the trends and people, even the drunk lying in the street. omon, David, Adam, Abraham, Paul, and I see this with young people, particularly. happy, but he spoke the truth: “More than daughters and 11 grandchildren. the philosophies. There is an excellent se- We need to weep when we see our fellow Peter. Approximately 80 percent of those Young people need other Christian young half a century ago, while I was still a child ries of DVDs entitled, “The Truth Project,” man lying there, bearing God’s image but tested could not put those names in chrono- people to stand together in accountabil- [in Russia], I recall hearing a number of which is professionally done. These can be ruined by sin, ruined by this world. logical order. This means that they did not ity relationships against the continuous older people offering the following explana- shared with neighbors. We must remember know the story of the Bible. From Genesis onslaught from the media. It never stops. tion for the great disasters that had befallen that many non-Christians are truly alarmed The Fall, the Origin of Evil 1:1 to Revelation 22:21, the Bible tells the The late John Stott said that he would go to Russia: ‘Men have forgotten God. That’s at the cultural hurricane we are in today. There is true evil in this world. There story of redemption. We have a lot of work movies, but only with other serious Chris- why all this has happened.’ Since then I Exposure to a clear presentation of the actually was rebellion in the world of to do teaching our people the story and tians, and only if they agreed to spend time have spent well-nigh fifty years working on Christian worldview would be a welcome angels, and now Satan, the leader of that how that story unfolds, as God progressively afterward reviewing the films according to the history of our Revolution; in the process relief to many people. Get a group of local rebellion, along with his demons, is at work reveals Himself through the Bible. Older biblical standards. We need good strong I have read hundreds of books, collected churches to show these films. Above all, in this world. They are evil, and they are writers like Erich Sauer taught the storyline churches to stand with us. We need good, hundreds of personal testimonies, and I’ve challenge your young people with these busy—they appear to be at work seven of the Bible. A contemporary author who strong families standing together as an army already contributed eight volumes of my things, or you will lose them. days a week, 24 hours a day. They are like offers a fine book with an outline showing to resist this world. We need good, strong own towards the effort of clearing away a band of roaring lions waiting to devour how this could be done in a series of mes- friendships and accountability in those the rubble left by the upheaval. But if I Teach Genesis 1—12 and destroy people (1 Pet. 5:8). We need sages or Bible studies is D. A. Carson. See relationships. We need to understand what were asked today to formulate as concisely The Theology of Creation to understand the true intensity of sin and his book, The God Who is There: Finding it means to be separated from the world. as possible the main cause for the ruinous We need a strongly presented theology of the demonic forces that are against us Your Place in God’s Story (Baker, 2010). We need to teach our young people (and Revolution that swallowed up some sixty of creation. We all go through periods of (Eph. 6:10–18). We need to hate sin, not Also see: Preben Vang and Terry Carter, our older people) that the meaning of life million of our people, I could not put it doubt. That’s perfectly normal. Is there tolerate it. Telling God’s Story: The Biblical Narrative is found in loving God and serving Him more accurately than to repeat: ‘Men really a Jesus? Is there really a God? Are all from Beginning to End (Broadman and through mission and service. have forgotten God; that’s why all this has these things true? How can all the world God’s Salvation Plan Holman, 2006). “The world will actually know you’re happened.’” ? be saying one thing, and our little group of Adam and Eve sinned, but the Lord God My disciples when they see you love with Christians be saying something else? Yes, did not leave them in their ruined state. He Teach God’s Design for Sexuality, this kind of intensity, the very kind I we do get these doubts. But one thing that promised a Savior, the seed of the woman, Marriage, and the Family had for you at the cross” (Jn. 13:34–35, brings me back again and again is creation. who would destroy the works of the devil We falsely assume that most Christians paraphrased). So, we need to build a strong It’s not even theoretically possible that this (Gen. 3:15; 1 Jn. 3:8). Satan continues to know what the Bible teaches about sexu- sense of community—good families uniting together, seeing ourselves together in the

48 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 49 Journey l Dr. MacLeod Asks Journey l Dr. MacLeod Asks MacLeodDr. Faculty member Dave MacLeod leads us in a public foundation for change. I wonder, if and were exposed to some fairly An alternative method of learning forum to discuss issues pertinent to contemporary in the desire to be encouraging and good Sunday school/midweek these disciplines might be through Asks Christian life. Last issue he asked the following question: positive, you have been too polite meeting/young people’s teaching first basic, then advanced, corre- to tell them that their house is on through the years, for which we are spondence courses (such as those fire? both very grateful. offered by ECS Ministries).

How directive have you been But what was conspicuously “Anonymous # 2” When Princeton Theological Seminary was founded in 1812, not all Presbyterians welcomed the in your individual critiques? Do lacking was any form of systematic California new school. They believed an older tradition should be followed in which a promising young man you have a designated leadership theology teaching (virtually none), would live with a minister’s family for a few years and be mentored by the seasoned pastor. The role that would cause them to very little apologetics teaching young man would be given books to read from the pastor’s library and opportunities to serve in pay attention to you? Sometimes (a little, but far more would have Roger Meng Responds the local church. The pastor would examine him regularly on his reading and evaluate his spiritual people need to hear, calmly, “That been much better), and any form These are good questions that growth. Then followed opportunities to preach, and eventually he would be was terrible. This is what you need of teaching on either hermeneutics merit serious thought and honest assigned to a church of his own (David B. Calhoun, Princeton Seminary to do to fix it.” Often non-direc- or homiletics. Because of complex answers. As the person with the [Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 1994], 1:4, 30). tive instruction is also considered circumstances in our lives, we have principal responsibility for sched- optional. been (mostly since Emmaus days) uling our speakers, I have regularly My question this month is an outgrowth of two things: First, there is my observation affiliated with open assemblies in thought about these matters. I that the history of American Presbyterianism and its early rejection of Unfortunately, in reading your various parts of the country plus a don’t look at my duties as merely formal biblical studies parallels the history of the Brethren assemblies question, a number of terrible few conservative Bible-preaching “filling the calendar.” I try to make and their widespread resistance to formal training. Second, there are the examples of preaching rose readily churches of various stripes. In the scheduling a conscious spiritual answers in the Fall 2012 issue of Journey to my previous question. I to my mind. Don’t give up. great majority of these fellowships exercise, and in the last year or am thinking especially of the letter of “Anonymous.” He asks all of us there has been little adequate Stephen and Margaret Harris so, have deliberately worked to for advice in motivating his local preachers to prepare well, use good teaching on systematic theology, Newton, Iowa involve the other elders in the apologetics, hermeneutics, or exegesis, and follow good expositional practices. task. I think it wise to have the homiletics. I think that in theory experience, balance, and insight My question, then, is twofold: (1) What advice would you give “Anony- this kind of teaching could be done “Anonymous # 2” Responds of the whole group. Like many mous”? (2) If you believe, as many of our readers do, that the local at the local church level, but in assemblies, we have a wide range assembly is the place for training and preparation, what is I live with my wife of 46 years in the real world it rarely seems to of speaker styles and quality, and, being done in your assembly to train young men in the prin- southern California. I attended happen. while we certainly have room for ciples of hermeneutics, to introduce them to sound exeget- Emmaus from 1960-1963 (my wife improvement, most of the feed- ical principles, and to encourage them to study homiletics a few years earlier) and sat under My conclusion: This kind of back has been positive. Some the teaching of Dr. Woodring and teaching is probably best handled for the serious task of ministering God’s Word? visitors or newcomers have com- the other excellent faculty of that at conservative Bible colleges and mented that we “actually use the era. My wife and I will both be seminaries whose faculties are ca- Bible.” It makes one wonder what eternally grateful for the high- pable of handling these somewhat Stephen and the various community churches quality teaching we received at complex disciplines. Even the Margaret Harris Respond are doing. (We have some clues as Emmaus, even though we were apostle Paul taught for two years our DVBS and Awana outreaches For “Anonymous”: Inspiring teaching elders and capa- both reared in relatively high-qual- at “the school of Tyrannus” (Acts draw some from their ranks.) ble men to do a better job of preaching is a praisewor- ity assemblies (she in “Tight- 19:9, 10), which was presumably not directly connected with any thy endeavor. It sounds like you have created a good Open,” myself in two kinds of My reply to the first question one particular local assembly. Why “Exclusives”). We heard some (RE: Anonymous) would be to do Brethren tend to completely decent devotional/expositional not give up. He has modeled his preaching at times (not always) ignore these two important verses?

Journey: Summer 2013 51 Journey l Dr. MacLeod Asks Journey l A Word Along the Way

vision for sound biblical exposi- My reply to the second ques- be for sincere and fervent prayer, tion and also mentored the men tion about the amount of training that the teachers in our assemblies In the Midst of Attack By Christopher W. Lange he has desired to train. He feels and preparation going on in our would rightly esteem the serious his efforts to motivate have fallen assembly would simply be “not task before them. hen we first begin to raise passed. Today, our four children are need that goads them to rebellion, our short. I would suggest he invest in enough.” We do give constructive our children, our greatest grown and have wonderful families of Savior knows exactly what they need. the men individually, as he is able, feedback to the “men in training,” Roger Meng W anticipation is that their their own. Three of our children have Putting our wayward ones into Jesus’ to possibly win them over to his as well as get strategic books into Westlake, OH lives will be full of joy and thriving relationships with Christ; one son is confident hands must not be our last school of thought that hard work their hands—from A.P. Gibbs’ text spiritual life as they mature. But as not a believer. From scripture, we are resort; it is the first and very best thing is worth it. It is hard work for most on preaching to basic Bible study many believers have experienced, my reminded that the Lord “will restore we can do for them. And when we of us to put together a sermon, and tools. I wish we had an “Anony- wife and I included, our child raising the years that the locusts have eaten” do this, our family life opens up to all I think most of us don’t always mous” in our assembly to challenge years have not turned out that way. cf Joel 2: 25. We pray for all of them the Lord’s mercies and provisions that give our full effort. However, we and train the men. About the best Many Christian parents have children daily. But the lessons remain. each new day brings. need, as Anonymous says, “to take we have done is offer books that who have grown up to reject the faith The danger when plodding Lastly, no matter how disruptive seriously the charge of carefully deal with the subjects of herme- or have rebelled against family values through such family unrest is that or how long the behavior continues, and diligently preparing sermons.” neutics and homiletics. as a result of their school environment, one or more children may “ruin” it we must be committed to forgiving We are not only speaking before the influence of other wayward teens, for everybody. Two of our own had to them. I can recall days when, for me, fellow men, but before angels and, We have several men who are or their refusal to obey the teaching endure years of discomfort and family this seemed almost impossible. Never- of course, the Lord Himself. willing and able to do the hard of scripture. The consequences can embarrassment as they made their own theless, life without a relationship with work, and we thank God for them, be tragic for parents who desperately way in the faith. Most importantly, any one of my children was unthink- as it does show in their pulpit want to raise their kids in “the nurture then, parents must, in the strength able. If we intend to continue as ministry. My last suggestion would and admonition of the Lord.” Many of the Lord alone, strive to make the parents in their lives and in their chil- of us have suffered bewilderment and household as consistent and nurturing dren’s lives, then not forgiving them heartache as we have watched our as possible so that spiritual guidance, is out of the question. The story of the children struggle with unbecoming good biblical teaching, and undimin- prodigal son in Luke 15 establishes the and destructive habits, major difficul- ished love continue. This can be a pattern for the broken and shamed son ext ssue s uestion N I ’ Q : ties in school, or with the law. challenge indeed. But our believing and for the expectant and watchful Oliver Barclay, a Cambridge trained zoologist, was heavily involved in UCCF (Inter Varsity Fellowship) and other We weathered such storms for children must know that, regardless of father (parents). From the parable, evangelical causes. In his fascinating book, Evangelicalism in Britain, 1935–1995, he has many kind words to say nearly 15 years before any consistent their siblings’ rebellion, we love all of we may be waiting for the clear and about the Brethren in the 1930s and ‘40s (see pp. 24–25, 33–34, 48, 55, 66, 68). For example, he says that much peace returned to us as a family. I them—without exception. Otherwise, heartfelt apology that will initiate our of the best work in evangelism and missions was being done by them. Many of the early leaders in university work recall many days when despair, anger, enduring psychological and emotional full acceptance and forgiveness. Such were Brethren, and he singles out Hudson Pope, an exceptional children’s evangelist, and Harold St. John, an embarrassment, and joyless existence hurt may prejudice one sibling against may never be the case. Forgiveness outstanding Bible teacher and conference preacher. He also mentions the philanthropic work of Sir John Laing, who became the norm. Self-inflicted guilt another—even for a lifetime. cannot be conditional, by formula. It contributed large sums to the building funds of such evangelical study centers as Tyndale House, Cambridge. Also paralyzed us. I even wished on occa- In another sense, parents must must come from a parent’s heart that mentioned are men like F. F. Bruce and W. J. Martin, who were leaders in the mid-century renaissance of evangelical sion that the same terrible experiences hold fast to the truth that the Lord has not, nor ever will, give up. This is scholarship. But at the end of one laudatory paragraph there is a strange caveat. He writes, “They commonly had would happen to other parents who Jesus is not blinded to our struggles how the Lord Jesus loves us. ? an exceptional knowledge of the Bible and they read and studied it avidly. They had excellent devotional emphases, appeared to have “the perfect fam- and to the struggles of our rebellious but little systematic theology beyond the basics (p. 25). This neglect of systematic theology continues to this day in ily,” only because, in my pain and children. Embracing His presence in the assemblies. My friend, Dr. Harold Rowdon, wrote me a very informative email some time ago, and included disillusionment, I expected and even our struggles can reaffirm the light this off-hand comment, “I have come to the view which you will doubtless deplore (!) that any attempt to fit biblical resented their potential criticism of us and hope of Christ, our joy and teaching into a systematic framework inevitably distorts it” (Rowdon to MacLeod, Sept. 4, 2004). So, here is my as poor parents. our peace. He loves them far question: Why do Brethren ignore, deplore, ridicule, and warn against the discipline of systematic theology? We have all heard at one time the beyond what we can compre- expression, “Time heals all wounds.” It hend, even in the midst Please send responses to Journey Magazine, Emmaus Bible College, 2570 Asbury Road, may be, however, that our heartache of their most hurtful behavior. Dubuque, IA 52001, or e-mail to [email protected].­ Include name, city, state, and doesn’t heal but that time removes us While we struggle to com- daytime phone number. Letters may be edited to yield brevity and clarity. from the immediacy of the issues. In prehend what it is they are our case, our tempestuous years finally searching for or so deeply

52 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey l News from Emmaus Journey l magazine

SUMMEX Peru News from SUMMEX is a long tradition at Emmaus. For years the college has or- ganized these faculty-led globe-trotting Emmaus trips with one goal: contextual discovery of missions. Last summer, Joel Hernan- dez, chair of the Intercultural Studies program, led seven students to Peru for Presidential Announcement Presidential Service munities, tutoring in the Dubuque twenty four days. It was a life-changing Honor Roll schools, prison ministries, and local On behalf of the Board experience. shelters and food distribution centers. of Trustees, we are Each year since 2008, Emmaus has Our journey included Peru’s three Additional areas of service include pleased to announce been admitted to the President’s cultures: coast, highland, and jungle. Dubuque area flood relief, the local the appointment of Higher Education Community Service In each we met missionaries, made YMCA camp, city parks, Visiting Mr. Philip Boom as Honor Roll by the Corporation for friends, teamed up with Peruvian Nurses Association, and Swiss Valley the sixth president of Emmaus Bible National and Community Service young people to preach the gospel, Nature Center. College, effective July 1, 2013. (CNCS). The Honor Roll recognizes and got a flavor for the culture. We It is this commitment to service Phil Boom brings extensive man- higher education institutions that served at the Bible Institute of Trujillo. that led Emmaus students and staff to agement and leadership experience reflect the values of exemplary com- We visited churches planted by the get involved in the spring and sum- to the role of president at Emmaus. munity service and achieve meaning- Bert and Colleen Elliot (their re- mer of 2011 when substantial rainfall He served as board member and ful outcomes in their communities. cent homegoing is still recounted). deluged the Dubuque community, Our team, front row left to right: Anna Rinehart, Raquel Gutierrez, Sara Gutierrez, chair at Hickory Cove Bible Camp CNCS oversees the Honor Roll in The Elliots used Emmaus courses to resulting in significant flood damage Sarah Covington, Hannah Hull. Back row left to right: Joel Hernandez, Aaron Covington, in Taylorsville, North Carolina, and collaboration with the U.S. Depart- disciple believers, so in one town in to many homes and parks. Flood relief Khellan Fletcher. elder at Brandywine Bible Chapel, ments of Education and Housing the Andes, the mayor, upon hearing work was still continuing vigorously Wilmington, Delaware. In 2010 Mr. and Urban Development, Campus we were from Emmaus, showed his at the end of August, 2011, when churches, met extraordinary people, Business Administration Boom joined the Emmaus faculty as Compact, and the American Council appreciation by sending platters of Emmaus Student Ambassadors arrived and shared our lives. The blisters Students visit Chicago the founding chair of the Business on Education. Honorees are chosen local delicacies while we dined at the on campus for their annual training. lasted only a few weeks, but the impact Financial District Department and program director of based on a series of selection factors, restaurant. In the jungle we hiked for Emmaus Student Ambassadors and will last forever! the Business Administration major. including the scope and innovation of 10 hours, crossing hills and rivers to Chicago Mercantile Exchange Building He currently serves as elder at Asbury several staff members partnered with service projects, the extent to which preach the gospel in a couple villages. In late November, 18 students from Community Chapel, Dubuque, Iowa. the City of Dubuque and other college Biblical Church service-learning is embedded in the One man trusted in Christ. We ate the Department of Business Admin- Mr. Boom has also demonstrated campuses to provide free flood clean- Leadership Course curriculum, the school’s commitment wild boar soup and drank something istration made a visit to the Chicago effective leadership in business settings. up assistance to Dubuque residents. Alex Strauch, Emmaus Bible College to long-term campus-community part- one missionary calls Yucca Spit Juice financial district for a first-hand look During his thirty-year career at DuPont Service is the essence of the gos- Class of 1968, was on campus Feb- nerships, and measurable community (making it requires chewing cooked at how financial markets operate. Company in Wilmington, Delaware, pel message. In Matthew 20:28 Christ ruary 25- March 1 to teach a course outcomes as a result of the service. yucca root and spitting it back out). In The trip was centered on a tour of the Phil held a variety of responsibilities in explains this concept in this way: “the entitled Biblical Church Leadership. Emmaus has been admitted to Lima we participated in an evangelis- Chicago Mercantile Exchange (the areas of business development, mar- Son of Man did not come to be served, With his experience as an elder, the President’s Honor Roll for its tic outreach. Overall, our team served, CME, known locally as “The Merc”), keting, operations management, and but to serve, and to give His life a author, and conference speaker Alex commitment to service projects such preached, served missionaries and where farmers, producers and buyers global business leadership. Additional ransom for many.” Preparing students brings credible biblical teaching on as Service Day, Operation Christmas of agricultural and other commodities details about Phil and his family can be for a life of service is at the core of Em- church leadership to our campus. This Child, and Open Heart Open Hands. have been trading futures contracts found at www.emmaus.edu/president. maus’ mission of “equipping learners to course has been taught in one week Emmaus is dynamically represented on their goods since 1898. By now the In his three years at Emmaus, Phil serve.” We want our students learning blocks over a number of semesters in local civic organizations, music exchange has expanded to include has evidenced the head, heart, and to engage with their community and and EmmausOnline has filmed and groups, and educational organizations. trading of global currencies, precious hands of a servant-leader, and we look developing the confidence to become posted these lectures online. You can Emmaus students’ commitment to metals, stock index futures and numer- forward to seeing what the Lord accom- the hands and feet of Jesus to the watch or listen to the previously filmed participate in meaningful service ex- ous other financial instruments. While plishes through him in his role people and communities around them. lectures at www.emmaus.edu. Look for tends beyond their required 30 hours the CME started out as a way for as president. We hope to see students immersed in the most recent lectures to be posted each semester; the typical student farmers to manage the risks inherent The formal installation of meaningful, Christ-honoring service this summer. regularly serves 45 hours each semes- in their businesses, it has grown to Philip Boom as president of Emmaus long after they leave Emmaus. ter. Students enjoy serving locally in the largest global trading platform of is planned for Saturday, November 2, the Dubuque community in a variety We crossed many rivers on the way to the options and contracts in the world. As 2013. Look for details in the months of settings including ministries of area jungle villages. such it presents an excellent oppor- ahead. churches, visiting retirement com- tunity for Business students to learn

54 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 55 Journey l News from Emmaus Journey l On the Road Journey l magazine

about financial markets. evidences as a valued faculty member. Day in the Prophetic In observing the intense and The Service Award was given to Word Conference Emmaus sometimes frenetic action on the trad- Dr. and Mrs. William J. Moore for On Saturday, April 13, Emmaus Bible On the Road ing floor at “The Merc”, and seeing their dedicated service to the college College hosted a Friends of Israel Day such sums of money being traded in over period of almost twenty years. in the Prophetic Word conference. Name Dates Location/Events City/State just moments, it is striking to recall In 1996, Bill was invited to become a We welcomed 260 guests to campus the word of the Lord by the prophet member of the Board of Trustees. He for a day of ministry and fellowship. Dave Glock Jul 14 Northwest Bible Chapel Chicago, IL Haggai, “The silver is Mine, and the accepted and has effectively served Featured speakers included Jon Glock, gold is Mine, declares the LORD of in that role for the past 17 years. In Dr. Jack Fish, Steve Herzig, and Dr. Aug 4 Bethany Chapel Cedar Falls, IA hosts”. Wayne Grudem, in his book the fall of 1996, the Teacher Educa- Jim Showers on topics such as Israel, Aug 18 Wauwatosa Bible Chapel Milwaukee, WI “Business for the Glory of God” tion department was growing, and the rapture, the tribulation, and the Oct 15-16 Workers and Elders Conference Colorado Springs, CO reminds us that while it all belongs the college needed additional faculty Kingdom. completely to Him, He has entrusted support in that area. Carol Moore was Steve Herzig was on campus after resources to each of us so that through willing to meet that need, and since the conference to teach a one-week their use we would glorify Him. Bill was at that time serving as assis- course on the Holocaust. Jon Glock July 20 - 27 Conference Point Family Camp Lake Geneva, WI Our day in Chicago ended with tant superintendent in Clinton, IA, Aug 4, 11 Warrenville Bible Chapel Warrenville, IL a visit to the John Hancock tower Carol commuted twice a week from Sep 1 Bethany Bible Chapel Cedar Falls, IA observation deck, followed by an Clinton for two years. As a faculty authentic Chicago-style pizza dinner member, Carol served with distinction Sep 21, 22 Dayspring Bible Camp- at Giordano’s with Emmaus graduate and helped our fledgling Elementary Believers Bible Chapel Retreat Ironton, MO Craig Raymond, who currently works Education program grow and develop. Sep 27, 28, 29 Bible Truth Youth Conference Wausau, WI in the downtown financial district. Bill and Carol moved to Ames, Iowa in 1998 to take a leadership position Recognition Dinner with the Ames Community School On Monday, May 13, we hosted District, but even from that distance, Joel Hernandez July 31 Hispanic Brethren Conference on Mission Argentina our annual Recognition Dinner to the Moores still responded personally July 28, Aug 4, 11 Summex Argentina celebrate the service of our dedicated to needs at Emmaus. About the time faculty and staff members. Of special of Dr. Moore’s retirement, the chair note were milestones for three long- of our Elementary Education program term faculty members at Emmaus: resigned from the college. For the John Rush (30 years), Dr. David Mac- next year, Dr. Moore commuted from Stefan Johnson July 28 Hiawatha Bible Chapel Wabasha, MN Ames to fill this role and assisted the Leod (30 years), and David Glock (45 Aug 11 Woodside Bible Chapel Maywood, IL years). David Glock served 25 years education department in its prepara- as Dean of Education at the college tion for a reaffirmation visit from the Aug 18 Oak Lawn Bible Chapel Oak Lawn, IL and continues to serve as a Bible/ State of Iowa. Bill and Carol attend Sep 15 Keystone Bible Chapel Omaha, NE theology faculty member and editor of Countryside Bible Chapel in Stratford, Sep 29 Stone Bank Bible Chapel Stone Bank, WI Journey magazine. We thank God for Iowa. Bill has served as an elder there the commitment of these men to the for 15 years and in full-time ministry ministries of Emmaus! since his retirement. Over the past decade, Countryside has sent over 60 John Jimo July 21,28 Woodside Bible Chapel Maywood, IL Alumni and Service Awards young men and women to Emmaus The annual Baccalaureate service for at least one year. In January of provides the opportunity to honor this year, the Board of Trustees asked individuals who make a difference at Dr. Moore to serve yet again, and Bill Emmaus. This year Coach Tim Iver- accepted the role as Interim President. son was awarded the Alumni Award in The college community is thankful to Dr. David July 20-27 Conference Point Conference Center Williams Bay, WI the Lord for the uncommon service to recognition for 16 years of dedicated MacLeod -Family Camp service for the Lord and Emmaus the college provided by Bill and Carol Aug 10 - 11 First Colony Bible Chapel Sugar Land, TX students as the head men’s basketball Moore. coach at EBC. Tim has stepped down Christianity and Culture Conference from this role but will continue to Sep 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Woodside Bible Chapel Maywood IL teach math, science, and Christian

56 Journey: Summer 2013 Journey: Summer 2013 57 Journey l On the Road Journey l magazine

Name Dates Location/Events City/State

Ben Mathew Aug 4 Oak Lawn Bible Chapel Chicago, IL Aug 11 Oak Lawn Bible Chapel Chicago, IL Sep 1 Maranatha Bible Church Cedar Rapids, IA Sep 20-22 Fall Out Youth Retreat Lake Geneva, WI

Seth Scott July 21, 28 Asbury Community Chapel Asbury, IA

Dan Smith Aug 11 Lakeside Bible Chapel Sterling Heights, MI Sep 15 Bayside Community Church Tampa, FL Sep 19 - 21 Ireland Outreach Conference Navasota, TX Sep 22 First Colony Bible Chapel First Colony, TX Oct 6, 13 Northwest Bible Chapel Chicago, IL

Mark Stevenson Aug 4 Lakeside Bible Chapel Sterling Heights, MI Aug 11, 18 Park Manor Bible Chapel Elgin, IL September 1, 8 Oak Lawn Bible Chapel Oak Lawn, IL Oct 4 - 6 Springbrook Bible Chapel Buffalo, NY & Blasdell Gospel Chapel

58 Journey: Summer 2013 Emmaus Bible College 2570 Asbury Road, Dubuque, IA 52001