Vol. 4, No. 5 May 1993

WHY SOME AREA CHURCHES OF CHRIST CANNOT SUPPORT THE 1993 AREA WIDE COLISEUM MEETING IN CORINTH

It is with much regret that that vacation of yours for leaves, he will himself be such an article as this needs March 25-28, 1992. AND it's both immersed into Christ to be penned. However, there's time to ask that lost friend and immersed into the fel no way we can be faithful to the of yours to do the same! lowship of other excited Lord who saved us and not speak Plan to bring that Christians, saved completely favorite friend of yours, that in the precious blood of the up concerning any grievous error, LOST friend of yours, to the Lamb. especially when it is at our own upcoming International So, plan your vacation front door. Soul-Winning Workshop in now. URGE him to make his The speaker chosen for this Tulsa. Make it a special plans to come with you. If year's meeting is LARRY WEST week-end outing. Have him you cannot bring a friend ofthe White's Ferry Road Church stay with you at a Tulsa from home, plan to bring, of Christ in West Monroe, motel. For something special don't just invite, but bring Louisiana. He is well known for is planned for him. Tulsa waiters, clerks, maids his "We Care" campaigns and The Emphasis: TO WIN and anyone else you meet crusades. He is very zealous in SOULS "AT" THE INTER after you arrive! Let's make striving to teach the lost. There NATIONAL SOUL-WIN this truly a SOUL-WIN NING WORKSHOP! NING WORKSHOP! certainly is no wrong in this regard. However, there are a (Thursday) Larry West: In this article, Larry West number of reasons why some "How God Saved People encouraged people, far and near, churches in our area cannot sup 2000 Years Ago!" port him in the area wide meet (Friday) Terry Rush: "I to attend the 1992 Tulsa Soul- ing. Some of these reasons are Don't Feel Like I'm Good Winning Workshop. This work found below. Enough!" shop is one of the most liberal Brother West frequently Marvin Phillips: "Pente among us! He invited them to sit appears on lectureships and cost Revisited!" at the feet of men who have been workshops which are noted for (Saturday) Jeff Walling: known as false teachers for "To Seek and Save The their support of error and false years. Not only that, he planned Lost!" to be with them himself and lend teachers. In the "World Radio Think of it! Your friend News" of November-December his support and encouragement! will be immersed in the This is a flagrant disregard of 1991, he wrote an article enti singing of fifteen thousand Romans 16:17 which says to, "... tled: Emphasis: Win your brethren night after night. neighbors "at" the Tulsa Soul- He will feel the bursting mark them which cause divi Winning Workshop. He said, spirit of God's wonderful sions and offences contrary to the people surround him for doctrine which ye have learned; It's time now to schedule days there. And before he and avoid them." It is an open Seek The Old Paths - May 1993 violation ofEphesians 5:11. "And be saved at the workshop!" are increasing...I conduct have no fellowship with the personal work seminars and unfruitful works of darkness, but MARVIN PHILLIPS I'm getting invitations from rather reprove them." He is con the non-instrumental demned by II John 11 which Restoration Forum VIII was brethren in this area." says, aFor he that biddeth him held at the Garnett Road Church God speed is partaker of his ofChrist, Nov. 7-9, 1990. It was a Regarding cooperation evil deeds." He is "guilty by meeting "for an expected 1,500 between the Christian Church association" - associating with members of the Churches of and the Church of Christ, he said those in error with no sign of Christ and Independent Christ that the Christian Church had rebuke from him! ian Churches from across the A look at some of the speak nation." While commenting on "contributed $800,000 to feed the starving in Ethiopia ers on past Tulsa Workshops instrumental music and the which was sponsored and reveals a great deal. In 1992 Independent Christian Church, overseen by the elders ofthe there were: Terry Rush, Jeff Phillips said, church of Christ, non-instru Walling, Larry West, Wayne mental fellowship...." Kilpatrick, Mike Cope, Mar "The forums are held vin Phillips, Calvin Warpula, because brethren on both It was the White's Ferry Tony Woodall, Rick Atchley, sides believe the same Road Church of Christ to things. We were kept apart Jerry Jones, Richard Rogers . which DeWelt referred in the In 1990 there were: Steve Flatt, because we didn't know each other. ... Our hope is for how quote above. In a letter dated Jim Woodroof, Larry West, much fellowship we can Jan. 1,1985, DeWelt wrote: Walt Leaver, Calvin Warpula, have while we differ over Gary Beauchamp, Jerry that issue. I see - in the "WE BELIEVE GOD Jones, Terry Rush, Rubel future - joint services and HAS OPENED WIDE A Shelly, Dick Marcear, Stanley mergers which will be DOOR of opportunity to Ship, Richard Rogers, Mike a cappella - non-instrumen express love and unity. The Cope, Jay Utley, Max Lucado, tal. I see some churches hav White's Ferry Road Church Marvin Phillips, Don DeWelt, ing both instrumental and of Christ elders have asked non-instrumental services." that we share with them to Jerome Williams. In 1993, the help meet the traumatic schedule listed: Joe Beam, {Tulsa World, June 17, 1990, Section B3) need of the starving in Denny Boultinghouse, Stan Ethiopia. ley Shipp, Jerome Williams, At the 1990 Tulsa Workshop, "We are so excited about Lynn Anderson, Marvin the mutual acceptance of while welcoming Don DeWelt, a Phillips, Richard Rogers, each other in this effort and Terry Rush, Jeff Walling, Christian Church preacher, also the eager desire to Mike Cope, Steve Flatt. In Phillips said, demonstrate our faith and other years there have been: love by our works...we must "Don DeWelt is a not fail." Chuck Lucas, Bill Banowsky, beloved brother to me. We Mid McKnight, Landon Saun disagree like many brethren ders, Alan Cloyd, Reuel Lem- In a letter dated Dec. 19, disagree, but he is a beloved 1984, from International Disas mons, Jimmy Allen, Cline brother. His spirit is great. ter Emergency Service, Inc. Paden, Randy Mayeux. From He loves the Lord, believes these names you would think you in the authority ofthe Scrip (IDES), which is an organization were looking at a list of "Who's tures, believes in the one of Instrumental Churches of Who" among false teachers and church, believes in so many Christ and Christian Churches, compromisers of the Faith! things that he and I both we read regarding their own Note below the documented would give our lives for. He reliefefforts in Ethiopia, is the owner and operator of evidence to show the false teach Gospel Press, is always at "Then we received an ings of three of these men: Mar the workshop with their appeal letter from the vin Phillips, Terry Rush and booth and their store...." White's Ferry Road Church JeffWalling. These are the very of Christ in West Monroe, men whom Larry West, in his As Don DeWelt spoke at the LA asking for help for article quoted above, desires workshop he said, Ethiopia.... These need our everyone to hear! It is a clear help, and we have sent endorsement of them! The tenor "As a direct result of the $5,000. ofbrother West's article is, "Hear Forums, we are involved in "We contacted elder Carl these men, obey their words and cooperative efforts and they Allison of the White's Ferry May 1993 - Seek The Old Paths

Road congregation and Brother Phillips taught a TERRY RUSH learned their congregation is series of classes at Kentucky working with other of the Christian College (Christian Terry Rush is the minister of non-instrument churches in Church school) in the Master of the Memorial Drive Church of raising funds. ... Carl Ministry program to thirty-six Christ in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The assures IDES the aid is students in 1986. These classes Tulsa Workshop alternates being sent in on a direct line were filled with error and com from the U.S. congregations between Memorial Drive and to the Ethiopian congrega promise as the tapes show. Garnett Road (where Marvin tions.... Brother Phillips says, Phillips preaches). Brother Rush "IDES will be forward has a book entitled: The Holy ing funds designated for "I come across Matt. 15:9...I Spirit Makes No Earthly Sense Ethiopia directly to the realized that you can't be which is endorsed by Richard White's Ferry Road Church perfect in doctrine, but you Rogers, Tracy Ellis, Dick to be combined with what must be genuine... And Marcear and Ted Stewart. Cline that's exactly what I John they are raising. This joint Paden wrote the introduction. effort between brethren on verse 7 means when it says A review of this book both sides of the restoration walk in the light. Well, movement will hopefully be there's only two ways to appeared in Hammer & Tongs, a means towards apprecia walk in the light. One would May through October 1992, edit tion for and understanding be sinless perfection and ed by Bill Lockwood and Stephen of each other much more that's not you and me, or the Wiggins. Under the section, Anvil fully." only other way is genuine Sparks, Sep/Oct 1992, page 7, ness... Matt. 15:9 dealt with brother Lockwood says, Brethren, since when does some people who were trying the Lord's church raise funds awfully hard to be doctrinal- "The worst bungling and ly correct but their hearts from denominations to carry out insignia of Rush's defeat is were not right with God. its work? Where is the Bible the frontal attack upon the Our only hope to be saved is person and deity of Jesus authority for such? Would you that we can be right and support a congregation such as Christ. I had never even dedicated, genuine in doc dreamed that some would this? trine, dedicated totally to choose such heretical offs In a speech titled, Putting Jesus' will, way and person. courings as Rush had done Celebration Back Into Worship, Now we call that grace. to manipulate his hobby. at the 1989 Jubilee in Nashville, Because you don't deserve it, The basic thesis is that we brother Phillips read from Luke but you get it anyway, have misunderstood the 15 about the prodigal son saying because God gives that to Spirit because we have mis that he had just read about the genuine. Now my only understood the doctrine of "what a church service ought to other point to apply this is, if the PERSON of Jesus that's the only way I can be be." In speaking of Sunday morn Christ. He strains hard not saved, the non-instrumental to say exactly what he has in ing worship he says to those who brother that I am, I need to may hesitate in going to worship. mind on this but warns fre allow you the same grace quently of the radicalness of that's given me... Our only what he is desiring us to "You get down there and go hope is that we can all be understand." to the party because church genuine, and we can have is supposed to always be brotherhood and fellowship Rush says in his book, party! It's always supposed and work together and boost to be a celebration! ... one another in our imperfec Page 54: "We are earth There's gonna be more party tion." (Professor Phillips en containers; and just like and there's gonna be less (Marvin That is) The Digres- the container of Jesus, no prison. ... If almighty God sives and Soft-Soaping less. Totally human." Page can listen to all of these Saints, W. Wayne Coats, 77: "The error looms large prayers all at the same time, pp.59-60) among several that Jesus and all of these church ser was not totally human." vices all over the world, and Page 114: "Jesus set the At the end of this series of not bother him, it isn't classes brother Phillips wrote to pace. He never misstepped. gonna bother him that He was as common as a Mis somebody is singing Amaz the students on October 21, 1986, souri farmer... yet, he was ing Grace and somebody else saying: "I could tell the Lord was ONLY HUMAN... UNTIL... is hugging on Grace and in the room and in your WHEN HE LINKED WITH telling her how much he lives...keep serving Jesus with all THE SPIRIT OR THE loves her." your hearts." FATHER (emp. mine) the Seek The Old Paths - May 1993

greatest revolution start He doesn't say that "those CHUCK LUCAS AT ed.... This volunteer man that agree with Jeff WHITES FERRY ROAD received power." (See also Walling." Who does he ask pages 34, 52, 83, 86) would be united - would be In the White's Ferry Road one? "I pray for those who bulletin dated Jan. 5, 1980, the will go to church... No, No, Brother Lockwood comments lead article states, "SEMINAR No... I pray, verse 20, for concerning the above statements: ON BIBLE TALKS AND those who will believe in me." ... Now, folks, I don't PRAYER PARTNERS...EVERY "The repudiation of the MEMBER NEEDS TO deity of the pre-baptized want to break anybody's ATTEND." Chuck Lucas was the Christ is as plain as it is back tonight as you try to shocking. Doubtless, he will bend over and go with me, speaker for "THIS SEMINAR... sashay to hedge himself but I want you to wrestle DESIGNED FOR THE CON with the fact that the text from this conclusion but the GREGATION." Surely, all says "believers." ... But I'll lines still read the same." remember that Chuck Lucas was tell you what, in order to the cult-like leader of Crossroad- preach the text, we can't get Also, Terry Rush's speeches ism. Facts concerning this hereti into this lesson without cal philosophy were readily avail at the Nashville Jubilee in 1992 appreciating the fact that able when Chuck Lucas was are certainly not lessons that can Jesus asked that we would be noted for their ring of sound throw the calf-rope around invited to White's Ferry Road. ness. all of those who just believe In a letter dated Oct. 15, in Him, and pray and work 1987, Don W. Tate, describes a JEFF WALLING for the unity of all believers. conversation he had with Ray Melton ofthe White's Ferry Road At the 1990 Tulsa Workshop In a conversation with Jeff congregation concerning "...the (Larry West spoke twice that Walling in 1988, he was asked if possibility of an upcoming 'disci year), Jeff Walling preached a he believed mechanical instru plining' class" to be held at the lesson entitled, That They All mental music was a sin and his church in Homer, Louisiana. May Be One. In this lesson he answer was, "No." He said he There were to be around five spoke of throwing a calf-rope couldn't say it was a sin because young couples in the class. They around those in denominational- the Bible didn't say it. He said to were not to meet in the building, ism since we are all believers, say it was a sin was to go beyond have no interference from the that we all may be "one" as the scripture. He compared instru elders and to allow Ray "free Lord prayed in John 17:20-21. mental music to a congregation course with what he wants to Here is what he said: that had elders and deacons or teach and then not to interfere one without elders and deacons. with the young people after they ...But assume for just a are taught." minute the crazy concept WHITE'S FERRY ROAD Did the Crossroads Philoso that there may be some folks SUPPORTS ERROR phy have some inroads at White's out in the world who honest- Ferry Road? You be the judge. to-goodness love Jesus with The White's Ferry Road all their heart who would Church of Christ has been INTERNATIONAL CHRISTIAN want to give him anything involved with and in support of MINISTRIES they have in their hands, error for years. This congregation but for whatever reason, at is Larry West's "home congrega The BOARD REPORT (offi this moment, they are not cial newsletter of ICM) provides fellowshipping in a building tion." It is his "home base." His that says "Church of Christ" office is there. He receives his much of the information found on it. Now, just free your mail and phone calls there. His below in Vol. 1, No. 1, Sept./Oct. mind up for that bizarre pos work is a part of the work of the 1987. sibility. Now, can you say church there. "We Care" min International Christian with me, that we may be istries is under the oversight of Ministries (ICM) became a one? You say, "No! God for the elders of White's Ferry Road. Louisiana nonprofit corporation bid! It's heresy!" How can he be a part of the work and obtained tax exempt status The first odd thing I there and not support their as a nonprofit religious charita want you to note in the text ble organization on August 25, is that Jesus doesn't say, error? 1987. when he says the "they" the Note these following facts Present at the official signing obedient might be one; he below. doesn't say, that "the church ceremony were: T. A. Isaacs, of Christers might be one." Alton Howard, Robert Danklef- May 1993 - Seek The Old Paths sen, W. L. Howard, Darrell Fra- tors. It is the responsibility bedroom with Pecan...he zier, Norman Rhodes, Carl Alli of this board to create the would have fallen under son, Bill Smith and J. R. Baker. policies and plans of ICM. God's condemnation. I do not (It is important to note that these "...While most ofthe pre believe that is an accurate men are elders, preachers and sent board members are picture of God's dealing with elders at White's Ferry Road man in the Old Testament teachers at White's Ferry Road Church of Christ, additional or in the New Testament. Church of Christ. Alton Howard Christian leaders from "Do you know that in is not only an elder at White's across the country will be three years and three Ferry Road but is also the pub appointed to the board over months I could not wrestle lisher of "Image" magazine which the coming years." INCENSE from the hands of is well known for its liberal the Greek Christians. ... views. He is also the publisher of Fortunately, ICM did not Maybe I don't have to get Rubel Shelly's infamous book, become a reality. It, like the Mis these people to stop burning The Second Incarnation.) The sionary Society of over 100 years incense. Perhaps this is one REPORT states that T. A. Isaacs ago, sought to do the work God of those Old Testament is also an elder at White's Ferry devotional items which can gave the church to do. It would be at the very least...tolerat Road and coordinator for the "We have been a gross error and vio ed and may be legitimately Care Ministries," an outreach of lation of God's divine plan. God utilized to bridge a cultural World Radio with Larry West. gave the church the responsibili and ethnic gap...and it was This report also states that ty to preach the gospel to the down hill from there!! Robert Danklefsen is an elder whole world, not a man-made "I want you to under and serves as the personal evan organization. "To the intent that stand that we tolerated the gelism director for the church at now unto the principalities and 'sign of the cross' IN OUR White's Ferry Road and We Care powers in heavenly places might ASSEMBLIES. We imitated Ministries. be known by the church the the sign of the cross at The BOARD REPORT stated manifold wisdom of God" (Eph. times...." that the purpose of ICM was to 3:10). launch a new TV outreach min An entire lectureship was SPECIAL GROUP SINGING istry. "Then Jesus Said" was to be devoted to exposing this heresy their first TV series. Darrell Fra- at the Central Church of Christ There are occasions when zier, President ofICM, said, in Bastrop, Louisiana, July 21- small-group "singers" will sing in 23,1988. the Sunday morning worship "We are also dreaming of assembly of the White's Ferry many other opportunities to ERROR TAUGHT Road Church of Christ. On occa spread the gospel, such as IN THE PULPIT sion, Larry West's wife and radio programs, a national daughter have participated. We Christian magazine, teach There was a great amount of must conclude that such is done ing and counseling services, error set forth in a speech deliv with approval or else it would not international relief and be done. development activities, cam ered by Steve Weathers Oct. 17, Where is there Bible authori paigns and crusades, and 1985, at White's Ferry Road. Bill God only knows what other Smith, one of the elders, ty for anything but congregation opportunities He will grant endorsed the lesson with enthusi al singing in worship? There is us in the years ahead as we asm. The transcript of this no command, example or implica take the cross of Christ speech appeared in Contending tion anywhere in the New Testa around the world." For the Faith, June, 1986. Some ment! Ephesians 5:19 and Colos- of the many quotes are as fol sians 3:16 demand that ALL sing On page 6 of the BOARD lows: and make melody in our hearts REPORT we read, to the Lord - not some sing while "...There are some indi others listen. Shall we all then, "International Christian viduals in our fellowship in contradiction to these pas Ministries (ICM) has three who say, 'Once God has sages, follow White's Ferry separate boards with three specified that which he Road's lead and begin to have our distinctive functions. These wants, we are not at liberty own choirs? Never will it be so boards are the Board of to add anything else and if with Bible authority! Directors, the Board of we do so it is blatant sin and Founders and the Board of rebellion in the sight of God.' Advisors. In other words...once God UNCERTAIN SOUNDS "The governing body of specified Gopher wood, had ICM is the Board of Direc Noah panelled the master Larry West delivered a lesson 6 Seek The Old Paths - May 1993 entitled "How God Saved People "Oursalvation arises entirely and God in our debt nor earn salva 2,000 Years Ago" at the Tulsa only from grace. ...It is entirely of tion by works of merit. Ephesians Soul Winning Workshop in grace through faith. ...My salva 2:8 says we are saved by "grace March, 1992. When responding tion is on grace alone, not by any through faith," but NOT BY grace to objections made by the denom thing Tve added to that." Are ONLY, TOTALLY, 100%! Such inations that we believe in "sal West and Shelly saying the same rules out any response from man vation by works" (by teaching thing? They use many of the himself. If salvation is by grace, baptism for the remission of same words and expressions! ONLY, TOTALLY, 100%, then sins), he reads Titus 3:4-5 and These are words you would everyone would be saved for the then says: expect to hear from a Calvinist, grace of God has appeared unto not a gospel preacher. West even all men (Titus 2:11-12). When the "Not by works of right asks for agreement from the words, ONLY, TOTALLY, 100%, eousness which we have audience by saying, "AMEN?" are added to the word "grace," it done. Folks, we can't work and, they respond by saying becomes error, just as adding ourselves into heaven. "amen." them to the word "faith" becomes There's nothing we can do to When brother West was error when the denominations do earn heaven. Not by works asked about this statement he it. To specify a percentage in of righteousness which we have done. But according to replied by trying to frame it into either "grace" or "works" is to go his MERCY he SAVED us. an implied either/or combination beyond what is written. Let's just According to his WHAT? Oh, of "grace alone" or "man's merit." accept what the Bible says with his mercy, yes. It is ONLY He said in a letter dated April 27, out adding to it. by grace through faith that 1993, However, there are works we are saved, TOTALLY, which man must perform in 100%, AMEN?" (Emphasis Would you, then, please order to be saved (James 2:24). his) fill in the following blanks: Man MUST work the works God "Salvation equals % has commanded him to perform man's merit plus % In the minds ofmany, his last or else he cannot be saved. John God's grace." Then, will you sentence is Calvinism - pure 6:29 says, "This is the work of denominationalism! He may dis please show me verses that say we can earn any ofheav God, that ye believe on him whom agree, but his words remain the en at all, dear brother, even he hath sent." The works God has same. Other statements made in just one? Frankly, speaking commanded are not works of the same lesson are a contradic personally, I wouldn't touch merit. They are works which God tion of what he said above it. designed to test our faith. They because he went on to point out are works none the less - works that God saves when we are bap Brethren, salvation is not an of obedient faith. Therefore, sal tized. Now, you can't have it both either/or proposition as he has vation cannot be ONLY by grace, ways: both (1) ONLY, TOTALLY, worded it. This seeks to place TOTALLY, 100% or by FAITH 100% GRACE and (2) men doing anyone who would try to answer ONLY. You can't place a percent their part in obeying the gospel. this question in a dilemma. age on the "grace of God" and the It's a contradiction! There is more to consider than "works of God," though both are None the less, the quote simply to ask the question above. involved in accomplishing man's above is misleading and ambigu Salvation is neither by "grace salvation. ous. Given what denominational 100%" nor by "man's merit." Nei Jim Woodroof says "faith people have always been taught ther option he asked about is cor only." Rubel Shelly speaks about concerning grace, it can easily be rect! Such tactics as are set forth "not one whit" only. Larry West understood to support their own in this supposed dilemma are says "ONLY by grace through doctrine. Would there be a often used by liberal brethren. faith, TOTALLY, 100%." Now, denominationalist in West's audi But, we shall not be so fooled. which shall we believe and ence that heard the words ONLY, We are saved by "grace" (Eph. accept? Some people believe in TOTALLY, 100%, and believe 2:8), "faith" (Rom. 5:1), "works" "Jesus only." Will we accept that it was contrary to their doc (James 2:24), "blood" (Rom. 5:9), "Jesus only?" Some believe in trine, or, complimentary of the "repentance" (Luke 13:3), "bap "works only." Will we accept same? tism" (I Peter 3:21), the "word of "works only?" None of these are West's words are the same God" (James 1:21), "yourselves" correct! jargon used by others who have (Acts 2:40), etc. Yet, beside none gone out from us. For example, in of these can we add the words: NO ANSWERS a speech at the Nashville Jubilee ONLY, TOTALLY, 100%! in July, 1991, Rubel Shelly said, It is true that we cannot place In a letter dated March 10, May 1993 - Seek The Old Paths

1993, the elders at the East making" and he conscientiously II Tim. 4:2-4, II John 9-11. Gala- Corinth Church of Christ wrote could not answer a creed. He tians 1:8-9 points out that we brother West and ask several responded by saying that some of must not teach or receive error. A questions concerning his general them were not even Bible ques stern warning rests upon those belief as well as specific ques tions, such as, "Do you believe who do. Elders are to stop the tions concerning his teaching and Christians can participate in mouths of the gainsayers and practice. After not hearing from mixed swimming?" protect the flock from the wolves him, on April 14, 1993, he was that seek to enter in (Titus 1:9- called to ask if he intended to CONCLUSION 11; Acts 20:29-31). Now a days, answer the questions and his many elderships invite them in reply was "no." His comments Can we please God and not instead ofkeeping them out. concerning these questions were oppose error? Read Jude 3, Eph. that he thought it was "creed 5:11, Rom. 16:17-18, Gal. 2:4-5, Garland M. Robinson

GUILT BY ASSOCIATION? (Bidding God Speed to Error)

Garland M. Robinson

The phrase "guilt by associa their evil work. Noel Merideth gerous men on earth. They tion" is often used by brethren wrote concerning these verses, constitute one ofthe greatest today. It is said, for example: just threats to the well-being of because brother associ John penned these humanity. (Studies in 1,2,3 ates with, runs with and consorts words to make clear to the John, 1987 Denton Lectures, pp.271-272) with those who teach error, we "elect lady that false teach cannot refuse to fellowship him - ers were in no way to be In II John 11, the reason is that's "guilt by association." The encouraged in their efforts to deceive the people. To given why we must not give idea seems to be that just receive such into one's house encouragement to false teachers. because one may associate with is to provide assistance in "For he that biddeth him God some who are false brethren, the work they do, and is to speed is partaker of his evil that does not make him guilty partake with them in the deeds." We may not believe or nor is he to be judged as a false evil deed of false teaching. It teach the error of the false teacher himself. Does the Bible follows from this that those teacher ourselves but we are con have anything to say about a sit who teach error are not to be demned along with him because uation like this? Yes it does! supported, encouraged, or we "bid him God speed." That "Whosoever transgresseth, assisted, in such efforts, in means we fellowship his evil and abideth not in the doctrine of any way whatsoever. Ifsome work. We are guilty by associ Christ, hath not God. He that one of this type appears, we are not to welcome him, we abideth in the doctrine of Christ, ation with him! Such an indi must not offer him hospitali vidual needs to repent along with he hath both the Father and the ty, we must not assist him Son. If there come any unto you, the false teacher. on his way. We are not to For example, a lectureship or and bring not this doctrine, extend to him fellowship. workshop may be held and the receive him not into your house, Paul wrote, "And have no schedule is filled with compro neither bid him God speed: For he fellowship with the unfruit misers and false teachers. One, that biddeth him God speed is ful works of darkness, but who may not teach error himself, partaker of his evil deeds" rather reprove them" (Eph. is invited to participate and he (II John 9-11). 5:11). ... We must not do willing consents to do so. When In II John 9-10, those who anything which could be interpreted by others as an questioned regarding his fellow teach false doctrine are con endorsement of his work. ship of those in error he some demned. We are not to receive ...We should see to it that times replies, "I went to preach such individuals into our house, what we do does not in any the gospel." "I'll preach the gospel neither bid them God speed. That way advance the proclama anywhere!" "I spoke the truth in is, we are not to lend them any tion of false doctrine. False my lesson." Speaking the truth in aid, support or encouragement in teachers are the most dan their lesson is not the point. Fel- 8 Seek The Old Paths - May 1993 lowshipping those in error is the which are evil: and thou hast "I don't believe in some of the point! tried them which say they are things done by Jezebel," but they There is a marked difference apostles, and are not, and hast went along with and supported between one who simply "speaks found them liars.... But this thou her by virtue of the fact they did the truth in his lesson" and one hast, that thou hatest the deeds of nothing to stop her and thereby who "speaks what needs to be the Nicolaitans, which I also were guilty by association with heard by those on the program hate" (Rev. 2:2,6). The church at her. The church at Pergamos and and those in attendance." One Ephesus was not guilty of associ Thyatira were both told to may speak the truth, yet by his ating with those in error. They "repentor else" (Rev. 2:16,22). words or actions (or the lack of refuted both the error and those There are many brethren and his words or actions) the impres who practiced it! Their example churches today who are guilty by sion is left as if they were all in is one worthy ofimitation today. association with those in error. fellowship one with another. His The church at Pergamos, Instead of reproving, rebuking silence on the subject of fellow on the other hand, did not meet and exhorting them to repent ship and error is an endorsement with God's approval in this (II Tim. 4:2), they hold up their of their error and equivalent to regard. Even though they were hands by providing them a plat bidding God speed to their error. praised for holding fast the name form to teach their error. They It doesn't matter that he may pri of Christ and not denying the are called in and paraded before vately say, "I don't believe in faith (Rev. 2:13), they were con unsuspecting saints to spread everything the other speakers demned for their guilt of tolerat their pernicious doctrine. Events teach." He needs to let that be ing and harboring those who and programs are promoted and known publicly! Those in error taught error. "But I have a few encouraged which are leading the must be taught the truth and things against thee, because thou way for the church to run head reproved, rebuked and exhorted hast there them that hold the doc long into apostasy. It is a shame to return to the Old Paths (II trine of Balaam, who taught and disgrace for such to exist. Tim. 4:2). Balac to cast a stumblingblock Brethren, it's just not right! The Old Testament taught before the children ofIsrael, to eat that for one to remain silent things sacrificed unto idols, and when he should expose that to commit fornication. So hast which is wrong was to "bear his thou also them that hold the doc iniquity" (Lev. 5:1). The New Tes trine of the Nicolaitans, which tament teaches the same: "And thing I hate. Repent; or else I will have no fellowship with the come unto thee quickly, and will unfruitful works ofdarkness, but fight against them with the sword and fellowship tiiose;; rather reprove them " (Eph. of my mouth" (Rev. 2:14-16). int erroy. ,11 John IlA; 5:11). It's not enough to simply There are many brethren and declares that aucht not teach error ourselves. We churches today who follow their individuals are "par* must not fellowship "unfruitful example. They may not teach takers with them!' ill works of darkness." But further error themselves and can be com their evH. They stand still, we must also actively mended for their own teaching, "reprove" and "expose" those who but they associate, fraternize and condemned \&\$&&;-l do! identify with those who do teach Those who defend "bidding error. They are guilty by associa false doctrine- God speed" to those who do not tion with them! must repent of their teach the doctrine of Christ often The church at Thyatira error as those Sit say, "you're going too far," "that's was likewise guilty ofgoing along Pergamos and TM^? guilt by association." with and fellowshipping some in atira iw^re ipdi to &&}; Let's examine what God says error. "Notwithstanding I have a about "guilt by association" as few things against thee, because ^.^pittm^t^;;, taught in II John 9-11. thou sufferest that woman 35ellowship^ ^fi^e;; Jezebel, which calleth herself a ieU prophetess, to teach and to seduce INSPIRED EXAMPLES ^ri?pr? Not according my servants to commit fornica The church at Ephesus was tion, and to eat things sacrificed to II John .9-11 aikd commended for exposing false unto idols" (Rev. 2:20). The Rev. 2:14-16,20-22. teachers. "I know thy works, and church may not have taught thy labour, and thy patience, and Jezebel's false doctrine them how thou canst not bear them selves and even said when asked, May 1993 - Seek The Old Paths 9 A CONVERSATION WITH LARRY WEST

Johnny Robertson

I want to impart to you the is "church business" to be dis I ordered tapes of the 1990 contents of a conversation I have cussed with church people." Just Tulsa Workshop and the theme had with Larry West which lead like the Lord's supper and the was exactly what I have me to conclude without a doubt first day of the week. He said, addressed above. The speakers that he is not the man I was told "The gospel is for people outside were with one voice advocating he was. and doctrine is for the church." that we join hands with all First, let me say that the last He said, "I Cor. 15:1-4 says Paul "believers" in Christ and their thing Larry West said to me after taught gospel and not doctrine." definition of believers is not the our last conversation was "I He said, "That if he found people Biblical sense. Jeff Walling said, know that you love me and that in some country and they had "Don't even worry about bap you are trying to do right." I tried believed in Jesus and were bap tism." Also, that year is when my best to be exactly what God tized, but weren't taking the Don DeWelt was a speaker. Don demands, not contentious but Lord's supper and using mechan advocated unity with us and seeking truth and the best for ical instruments of music he Marvin Phillips amened the plea Larry. wouldn't say they were lost." and said Don DeWelt is our Conversation during Septem From this conversation I "instrumental brother." ber of 1991. learned he holds exactly the I asked Marvin Phillips and I asked Larry to allow me to same position as Rubel Shelly, Terry Rush personally, both hosts try to find out why he was such a "namely that there will be saved of Tulsa Workshop, if Larry West controversial subject and why people in denominations." Larry endorsed the Tulsa Workshop some opposed him. I asked him if will teach that doctrine and and they both said he did and he would answer some questions gospel are two different things Marvin said he has gotten at and he agreed. and gospel is only the death, bur least a letter a month from Larry ial and resurrection and the saying he can't wait till the next QUESTION: Do you believe church, etc., is doctrine. As long one. instrumental (mechanical) music as they are willing to accept I had information that Larry is a sin? "gospel" they are saved no matter said he didn't endorse the work RESPONSE: I believe it is if they are in error on "doctrine." shop and I asked Marvin and wrong. I want to be truthful to him, he Terry if they were aware of that. QUESTION: Do you believe a said, "If they wouldn't give up Neither of them could under person will be lost because of error they would be in danger." stand him saying this. Terry said mechanical instruments of music But, the end of that is they are the Tulsa position must be hurt in worship? better offifthey are never taught ing Larry's ministry and he RESPONSE: I think they will about error because he says they would check this out since Larry be in grave danger if they don't can be saved in it. is scheduled for the 1992 work stop. Notes of interest: I called his shop. QUESTION: (I asked this elders first to ask if they knew There is no doubt to me that question this way because I knew his position on this. They said Larry is uncertain as to what he he was trying not to state his they would not answer for Larry believes and he is at this point a position) - Do you believe people on instrumental music. false teacher because of the posi will be in Heaven who use Another observation I was tions he takes. I have told him I mechanical instruments in wor able to make: oppose him and he said even ship? Joe (?), the man who came to after all this that he knew I was RESPONSE: I'm still strug Forest Park, GA, to talk to all concerned for him and not just gling with this. southside preachers (he was from being contentious. Bartlesville, OK), made reference P.O. Box 1776 Then he related his position in his talk about the campaign Majuro tome. that "gospel and doctrine were Marshall Islands 96960 He said, "Music that we use different subjects." 10 Seek The Old Paths-May 1993 WHAT IS "THE CRIER" CRYING?

Bill Lockwood

Larry West, associate editor of The Crier, edito fact that lines are drawnl Indeed, the entire chas rializes in the April-May 1992 issue on the uBlood of tisement in his little piece was to those who wish to Jesus." In this he relates an incident in his own life discover his doctrinal stance on a topic prior to let in which an unnamed brother queried him by phone ting him speak. He actually supposes this mindset regarding his position on a particular doctrine. "I ignores the "blood of Jesus." Then, brother West don't fellowship anyone who does not hold certain snidely calls for "Perry Mason" to aid him against positions on some subjects," he had been told. This the midnight caller. But, I declare that Mason evi nameless party actually desired to discover what dently did not arrive in time to keep brother West were brother West's views on a topic prior to allow from indicting himself on the count of "unity in doc ing him to stand in his pulpit. The balance ofbroth trinal diversity." For, this is exactly what his criti er West's article then focused upon the fragmenting cisms imply if they have any substance at all. horrors latent in such a nonsensical notion that Should we never question anyone's doctrinal would seek to ascertain another's beliefby the "ask stance? Is it wrong to withhold fellowship from ing question method." "Whatever happened to the those "who hold certain positions on some blood of Christ among us? Is it no longer the point?" subjects?" Should a Christian never be placed asks brother West in rebuttal. "on the witness stand?" The Crier cries "NO." It is noteworthy to me that brother West not Second, brother West complains that he had "to once identifies the doctrine about which the myste defend himself on a subject he had not even been rious caller queried him. Instead, he dramatically invited to address." Well, if the patient reader did groans that perhaps we have "forgotten" the blood not see his unity in doctrinal diversity thus far, of Jesus. "Isn't the blood of Jesus the one thing that there is no mistake now. But I know his position to makes us able to call each other in the church be biblically false and the mover of church seditions. brother'?" He coaxes us along in this way to sympa This is also the chief feature of liberalism and thize with anyone who is grilled with questions. But demonstrates that brother West has been reading a I have a sneaking suspicion from his overmuch sor different book than the rest of us. Yes, this proposal row with which he bewails such procedures that of West's is the grand tactic of every false way to would ask a question or two, that the readers of his spread whatsoever they wish to whomsoever they paper might be less sympathetic with him if he will and the rest of us are simply invited to shut our would inform us ofthe point in dispute! mouths and let them do it. Having said that, I now cast a little light on the Third, brother West says, as has each heretic to principles which he espoused in his piece, which I the faith from Marcion to Ketcherside to Shelly, "I declare are pernicious and perverting of God's have obeyed the Gospel of Christ and all the funda system. mental doctrines of Christ." Obviously, the dogma First, brother West blames division among God's for which HE has been called on the carpet he clas people upon the disposition that summons one to sifies as non-fundamentals. But see: he condemns the "witness stand" to confess what they believe "each group saying its own position is fundamental (p.6). This is indeed a knotty problem, but not for to personal salvation" when he comes to the divi the reason brother West gives. The PROBLEM is sions in the churches of Christ. However, he eats that troublers in Israel NEVER wish to be cross- the same cake when he answers the midnight mys examined on what they believe and will go to great terious phone-caller. "I have obeyed the fundamen lengths of hand-wringing and tear-jerking before an tals." Now, that is a distinction with a difference! audience of readers to arouse indignation against He casts off on those who say "their own position is all questioners. West exclaims: "It astonishes me, fundamental" when he says "Ifeach group were not dear brethren, to see where some of us draw the saying that, there would not exist any breach offel line on each other." But since he never revealed to lowship among us...." Hence, when we say "our us where the phone-calling quizzer WAS drawing position is fundamental" we cause breaches in fel the line, this has every appearance of the old ploy lowship. But he turns right around with this one: "I now utilized by brother West of: "let's quit drawing have obeyed all the fundamentals." Well, then, lines." West does not want readers to be shocked as brother West, you must be a causer of division and much by "WHERE the lines are drawn" as by the I admonish you to quit it. Perhaps the anonymous May 1993 - Seek The Old Paths 11 caller is paying heed and has learned what he needs. Indeed, what IS The Crier crying? THE OSTRICH COMPLEX But he brings in the "anti" divisions, just like (Continued from page 12) Shelly and Woodroof and all the digressives do, to shoo us away from cross-examining a person as to Col. 3:16); there is no New Testament pattern doctrinal belief. The antis are supposed to make us (Rom. 6:17; I Cor. 4:17; I Tim. 1:13); one cannot ashamed to the extent that we will relieve the determine God's will by command, example, or pressure on the ones whom we suspect are out of implication and the use of reason to understand doctrinal conformity, lest we contribute more to the Scripture is unreasonable (II Tim. 2:25; I Thess. problem of division. But the anti error is not per se 5:21; Eph. 5:10,11); opposition to women in authori that they BELIEVE positions to be fundamental ty over men in the church is not of divine origin but enough to be concerned with them, but WHAT a remnant of our patriarchal past (I Cor. 14:34, 35; ARE THOSE DOCTRINES? They are theological I Tim. 2:8-15); condemnation of the social use of twistings which carry their refutation on their face. alcohol is not based on the Bible but is a hangover Thus, the conclusion ofWest: "shame on us for each from our puritan past (Prov. 23:29-35; Eph.5:18); thinking his position is fundamental" should be: and other equally heinous and damnable doctrines. "shame on us for holding absurdly false positions In the past few weeks, I have talked to a num as ifthey were truth." For, ifwe cannot believe that ber of intelligent, educated, active members of the doctrinal stands are fundamental, then West might church, many of them in positions of leadership in as well quit holding "all the fundamentals." different areas ofour nation and have been shocked Again, I wonder if brother West would desire to by their apparent lack of knowledge of prominent know a speakers' belief upon these "fundamentals" problems in the church. It cannot be that these before he allowed him to address an audience in brethren are ignorant of what is happening to the West Monroe? If so, his whole denunciation of ques body of Christ for lack of opportunity to know, for tioners who have been saved "by the blood ofJesus" false teachers have disseminated their heresies far is called into question. If not, what are they allow and wide and concerned Christians have just as ing to be taught? Would he permit the phone-broth widely opposed them by pulpit and pen. It seems to er to speak from HIS pulpit? One whom West me that these brethren do not know what is hap thinks has forgotten the blood of Jesus in his over pening because they have chosen not to know! This much curiosity? has been indicated by the annoyance, even resent Fourth, to cut through this thick smokescreen ment, shown when the presence of these problems once more, hear brother West: "In the blood of has been pointed out. Christ, may we, please, give each other room to Problems do not just go away because we choose grow, to examine, to learn, to change" (p.7). Of to ignore them. Neither do false teachers cease to course, Christians need room to grow. But, as is cus pervert the right ways of the Lord just because we tomary with the liberal set, brother West has NO do not acknowledge their existence. Some of these INTENTION of "changing" or "growing" into the brethren with the ostrich complex have admitted particular doctrinal belief that is held by the one that there are problems, but say that as long as who questioned him. As a matter of fact, in his they are not affecting the congregation where they entire crying thesis what he demanded was NOT worship, they see no reason to become alarmed. "time to learn better" or "to grow" but to halt the The foolishness of such thinking is that if brethren belief that we must agree! If he would respond to are not warned ahead of time, it may be too late to this, as he did in the article, by pointing out that we save them when error becomes entrenched. False do not agree with the antis, then his soft-shell ped- teachers usually do not announce their arrival to dlements of "allowing one another to grow and subvert the saints but enter in unawares (Jude 4). change" does not apply, does it? That is, unless he is To be forewarned is to be forearmed! telling us all to grow up to be like the antis. No, Elders must become aware of what is happening "room to grow" is a grandstand play that is worth in order to protect the flock and to "convict the gain less, as far as real substance is concerned, in this sayers" (Titus 1:9). Preachers must know what is context. It is all an "off the point" sympathy appeal happening in order to warn brethren and to preach which has lurking beneath its surface a despising of the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:26, 27,31; II Tim. the idea that some folks care enough to ask ques 4:2-5). All Christians must "contend earnestly for tions. the faith once for all delivered to the saints" (Jude 3)! "Leave us alone!" Is this what The Crier is Cry Brethren let us get our heads out of the sand ing? It seems so. and face the dangers which threaten us before it is 211N. Fifth too late! Marlow, OK 73055 4905 Gadwall Dr. W. Memphis, TN38141 12 Seek The Old Paths-May 1993 THE OSTRICH COMPLEX £juil/ Th j* A Rod Rutherford

The ostrich is the largest of all birds. A full grown male may reach eight feet in height and weigh up to three himdred pounds. The fastest of all land creatures, ostriches have been clocked at sixty miles an hour. The ostrich has great strength as well as stamina. It is capable ofkilling a man or an animal as large as a horse with its powerful legs and feet. Legend says that the ostrich is one of nature's biggest cowards in spite of its size, speed and strength. Traditionally, it has been said that an ostrich, when confronted with danger, will bury its head in the sand leaving the rest of its huge body exposed. Foolishly, the ostrich believes he is safe East Main Bible Lectureship because he can not see or hear the danger which threatens him. Although this alleged practice of the May 19-22,1993 ostrich is now questioned by naturalists it has given rise to the proverbial saying, "He's hiding his head Theme "Looking Unto Jesus" in the sand," which describes one who purposely chooses to ignore danger, problems, or issues that he East Main Church of Christ does not want to confront. 1606 East Main, Tupelo, Mississippi, (601) 842-6116 Tragically, there are many in the Lord's church today who suffer from an "ostrich complex." They are "hiding their heads in the sand" in regard to critical issues facing God's people. "Wolves in Seek The Old Paths is a publication of the East Corinth sheep's clothing" have entered into the flock of God Church of Christ and is under the oversight of its elders. It is and are ravaging it (Matt. 7:13-23; Acts 20:28-32). mailed free upon request. Its primary purpose and goal in publi These brethren, however, refuse even to acknowl cation can be found in Jude 3; II Timothy 4:2; Titus 1:13; Titus 2:1; II Peter 1:12. edge the presence of these false teachers. Editor: Garland M. Robinson Among the pernicious doctrines being pro Associate Editor: Jimmy Bates claimed from pulpit, periodical, and platform are the following: God's laws of marriage, divorce and remarriage do not apply to the alien sinner (Matt. 19:9; John 3:16); the guilty party in a divorce has as much right to remarry as the innocent party (Matt. «g 3 " * 3 Ph| * < # t 19:9); there are sincere, knowledgeable, devout \* e •C 3 O 1 Christians in all denominations (Acts 2:47; Eph. 4:4; 0< CO 5:23); the blood bought body of Christ is a sect and must change if it is to survive into the twenty-first century (Eph. 3:9-11; Acts 20:28); the Bible is only inspired in "thought," not in words (Jer. 1:9; I Cor. 10:13); we have no inspired Bible today since we do not have the autographs of the books (Matt. 24:35; I Peter 1:23); Jesus Christ is not the only begotten Son of God (John 3:16; Matt. 1:18-25); one does not io o have to understand why he is being baptized as long o

as he has a vague idea that he is obeying God (Acts GO 2:38; 22:16); the Lord's true church has never exist ed - except in the mind of God (Matt. 16:18; I Cor. 1:2; Eph. 5:25-27); the non-use of choirs and I mechanical instrumental music in worship is based on tradition and culture, not Scripture (Eph. 5:19; (Continued on page 11) THE OSTRICH COMPLEX