Vol. 70 “Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” No. 6

J u n e 2 0 1 Has a chasm 2 formed between you and another?

See “Repairing Strained Relationships,” page 4. From the Pen of the Edito convictions. The fees for the policies will be raised and the businesses, along with their employees (who are required to pay part of the fee) will end up paying for HE WAY OF TRUTH magazine is not a political these “free” services. I also understand that those who publication; we are endeavoring to fulfill the com- t will have to get their own policy, if they are poor and mission Jesus Christ gave the church—to go into unable to pay for part or all of it, will get government all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. help, so we taxpayers will also be required to help pay Matthew uses the word teach instead of preach as Mark the bill, regardless of our Christian convictions. does, and he goes on to quote Jesus as saying, “Teach- The President, whoever he may be, takes an oath ing them to observe all things whatsoever I have com- to “preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of manded you” (Matthew 28:19, 20). the United States.” This is not limited to the President; The gospel is the good news of Jesus Christ. The the Congress and all executive and judicial officers are angel told the shepherds the night Jesus was born, to do the same. This is one of the most serious trans- “Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great gressions of the Constitution, but it is not the only one. joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born A few years back Congress passed a bill, and the former this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ President signed it, that marriage was to be defined as the Lord” (Luke 2:10, 11). between one woman and one man. The President has The gospel is not only to be preached, not only taught, ordered the Attorney General NOT to enforce that law. but it is to be lived. “Man shall not live by bread alone, What other laws does he think he is free to disobey? Is but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of that upholding the Constitution? God” (Matthew 4:4). “Be ye doers of the word, and not The Secretary of the Department of Health and hearers only, deceiving your own selves” (James 1:22). Human Services, Kathleen Sebelius, the one who To the Christian, the Bible is not just another book announced these recent rulings, is a member of the written by a number of different authors, but it is God’s Roman Catholic Church, which is strongly against them. message to the entire world, and its real Author is God! Various members of both houses of the Congress are “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is also members of that church. The church could be fined profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for millions of dollars each year if they disobey them. instruction in righteousness” (II Timothy 3:16). The morals of the nation have drastically changed At least some of the Pilgrims that left Europe and through the last couple of generations, and not for the came to the New World did so for religious freedom. better. With the Christian, the issue is not one of “civil This nation was founded, at least in part, on Christian rights,” but moral rights. Sin is a reproach to any principles. I am not saying that the United States is a people. Sin is not determined by what the Constitution Christian nation in reality, or that it ever has been, but says, but by what the Law of God says. It is sad that a majority of our citizens have professed to be Christians so many professing Christians are supporting the whether they really were or not. devil’s program. Nowhere in the Scriptures can you find We are now faced with a law that, at least in part, support for two men or two women marrying one is contrary to the Constitution, and what is far more another. Nowhere in the Scriptures can you find sup- important, it is contrary to the Law of God. The First port for the practice of abortion. To the contrary, you Amendment to the Constitution, in regard to religious find in the Scriptures that God condemns such freedom says, “Congress shall make no law respecting actions. an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free Two men cannot become one flesh and bear children. exercise thereof.” My understanding of the first part of In the Old Covenant homosexual acts carried the death this statement is that Congress is not to pass a law penalty. Yes, I know we do not live under the Old Cov- that would establish a “state” church such as was found enant law, and I am glad we don’t, but we find in the in Europe. The second part clearly states, “or prohibit- New Testament that God still condemns such acts. We ing the free exercise thereof.” The health law that the find in the New Testament that “from the beginning of Congress passed and the President signed into law will do just that. And if you do not obey it you can be fined, the creation God made them male and female. For this and possibly put in jail. cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and It is said that the President has mandated that ABOUT THE COVER cleave to his wife; And they employers provide health-care coverage for all employ- On our cover is an awesome twain shall be one flesh: so ees. He is now also demanding that this coverage photo of the Grand Canyon in include birth control: free sterilizations and access to then they are no more twain Arizona. This view is from all FDA-approved contraceptives, including those that [two], but one flesh” (Mark Toroweap Overlook, 3000 ver- 10:6-8). tical feet above the Colorado induce abortions. This is to be free to all women. At River. Breathtaking! The sheer first, only churches were exempt, not hospitals, colleges, Next month we cele- brate our Independence drop, dramatic! Toroweap is a or charities affiliated with a religious group. The Roman Paiute term meaning “dry or Catholic Church, along with others, strongly objected Day; and we are called “the barren valley.” If you allow to this ruling, so the President changed the ruling to land of the free, and the relationships in your life to force the insurance companies to provide this free ser- home of the brave.” How deteriorate, you will live in a vice. Who is fooled by this change? There are no excep- much longer will it be true? spiritual dry and barren valley. tions for religious insurance companies, self-insured There are those in this It’s time to repair any strained religious employers, non-profit employers who are nation who think our Con- relationship in your life! religious, or small business owners who have personal stitution is an old docu- THE WAY OF TRUTH OUT OF BOX 88 (Registered Trademark) Dear Way of Truth, Vol. 70 June, 2012 No. 6 An old man gave me a magazine years ago. He would Devoted to the gospel of our loving Savior, the Lord sit at the Senior Center every day reading this magazine. Jesus Christ, who gave freely His life-blood, to save us I asked him what it was, and he gave it to me. I fell in from our many sins, to sanctify our fallen nature and to bring into one body all true believers, by whose stripes we love with it and started receiving it. It has been years are healed. now. I really love reading the convention reports. These Published the fifteenth of the month prior to the date of give me topics for my short talks in church and at the issue by the Church of God which assembles at 12819 Point center. Salem Road in Hagerstown, Maryland. Publishing office: 12811 Point Salem Road, Hagerstown, Maryland, U.S.A. I wanted to send help for the magazine for a time The Way of Truth is published without any given sub- now, and the Lord has blessed me to do so at this time. scription price, and is supported by freewill offerings from I love the messages from Bro. Trisler, Bro. Craig, and our readers and funds supplied by the local congregation. Bro. Tyler. I also love “The Children’s Corner.” I love It is sent out free to anyone who is interested enough to ask all the magazine, praise the Lord. for it. We shall continue this policy as long as God sees fit to make it possible. FOREIGN READERS are requested to I pray that the Lord will bless you all to keep pub- write us at least once a year if they wish to continue receiv- lishing this magazine forever or until Jesus comes to ing the paper the following year. Address all correspondence take us to our home. ... May God bless. to: The Way of Truth, P. O. Box 88, Hagerstown, Maryland —V. S., Georgia 21741, U.S.A. Always when writing, give your name and address clearly, please. —Alvin A. Craig, Editor Greetings, Our telephone number is 301-739-2980 Thank you very much for The Way of Truth magazine. Our fax number is 301-739-7173 It is very helpful to me in times like these. Our e-mail address is [email protected] —E. A., Alabama Visit our website at www.wayoftruth.org May the Lord bless all who are working for the Lord. ... We love you all and pray for all of the Church of God ment that is standing in the way of the liberal agenda, ministers who are preaching the truth. and are willing to cast it aside. Again, to the Christian —C. T., Illinois  it is not so much what the Constitution says, but what Almighty God says that really counts; but the Constitu- tion does say that we are to have religious freedom and IN THIS ISSUE: Congress and the President have no right to change that.  The Bible and Fatherhood Page 2 Radio message by A. A. Craig OUR SERVICES ON CD’S CD’s of our services are now available for purchase. These Repairing Strained are $3.00 each; however, orders of 10 or more are only $2.50 Relationships Page 4 each, postage paid. Full-length sermon by G. E. Tyler Please write in the blank how many you would like to receive. Send check or money order to: The Way of Truth, CD Ministry, The Poetry Page Page 10 P. O. Box 88, Hagerstown, MD 21741-0088 U.S.A. Honoring fathers and children ___ CD #107 Does Your Anchor Hold? G. E. Tyler The Veil Was Rent in Twain Page 11 ___ CD #108 Our Thoughts Doug Shenberger Article by Hoyt Matthews ___ CD #109 Examine Yourselves A. A. Craig ___ CD #110 Called, Sanctified, Preserved A. A. Craig Bible Lesson of the Month Page 12 ___ CD #111 Keys to Happiness A. A. Craig “Having the Mind of Christ” ___ CD #112 Growing Old Gracefully A. A. Craig The Children’s Corner Page 14 ___ CD #113 Ladies Day - Faith - Various Speakers “Following Every Word” ___ CD #114 Things that Never Change A. A. Craig ___ CD #115 Do Not Be Conformed to the World A. Craig The Question Box Page 15 ___ CD #116 Be Transformed A. A. Craig Our monthly feature ___ CD #117 What Then Shall I Do With Jesus? A. Craig Is Healing for All? Page 16 ___ CD #118 Timothy, Paul’s Son in the Faith A. A. Craig Article by the late H. M. Riggle ___ CD #119 Easter Drama - “The River of Life” ___ CD #120 The Kingship of Jesus A. A. Craig Young People’s Page Page 17 ___ CD #121 Personal Relationship With Christ G. E. Tyler “Forgiveness,” by E. Ononuju, Nigeria ___ CD #122 The Hope that Is in You Brian Richards Missionary Page Page 19 ___ CD #123 Time for Spiritual Renewal G. E. Tyler Report of 2012 Honduras Convention ___ CD #124 God Is A. A. Craig  June 2012 Page 1 UR SUBJECT for creation, and the various parts of the creation, where this broadcast is, God said that it is good; and finally, when He completed THE BIBLE o “The Bible and His work He said, “It is very good.” But there is one Fatherhood.” Reading thing that God said is not good. What was that? “It is AND from the first part of the not good for man to be alone.” Therefore the Lord said, 28th verse of Genesis “I will make him an help meet.” “And the LORD God FATHERHOOD 1—“And God blessed said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will them, and God said unto make him an help meet [helpmate] for him.” them, Be fruitful, and God made a special companion for man. I do want to Radio Message multiply.” emphasize the word special, for the wife is indeed special. I believe there is, in the God made a special companion for man; therefore, it by Bro. Alvin Craig heart of most men, a should not cause offense to say that the woman was desire to provide and to made for the man. He needed her. Yes, he needed her, protect. This desire is regardless of how strong, how brave, how courageous a fulfilled in marriage and fatherhood. God never man may be, the fact is, he still needs a wife. He needed intended for the man to satisfy his desires through her, and it was not good for him to be alone. fornication or shacking up with some woman. We are God ordained marriage, and He intended for mar- told in Hebrews 13:4, “Marriage is honourable in all, riage to be a blessing for man. Too many times the way and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulter- that it is carried on today, it turns out to be less than ers God will judge.” So God never intended for the man what God ordained. Maybe we could even use the word to satisfy his desires through fornication or shacking curse; and that’s not because God ordained marriage, up. God ordained marriage. but because of the failure that men and women make According to the Bible, man was created in the image out of marriage. Marriage has never failed. It is those and glory of God (I Corinthians 11:7). Therefore, man who enter into it who fail when there is failure. needs to listen to God as to the role of man. Yes, man God made man, and He made the wife. He told them needs to listen to God as to the role of man. Man has to cleave to one another. He did not intend for the man the role of leadership or headship in matters of this to abuse the wife, nor the wife to abuse the husband, life. but He intended for them to love and to care for one Man, as the husband, is the head of his wife. “But another. Marriage is to be between male and female. I would have you know, that the head of every man is According to Matthew 19:4, 5, we read, “And he [speak- Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the ing of Jesus] answered and said unto them, Have ye head of Christ is God.” So Paul wrote in I Corinthians not read, that he which made them at the beginning 11:3. made them male and female, And said, For this cause Paul also wrote these words inspired by the Holy shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave Spirit, “Wives, submit yourselves unto your own hus- to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?” Those bands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head are the words of the Lord Jesus Himself. of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: Marriage is a new unit, and is not to be governed and he is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the or controlled by any other family unit. That is why the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to scripture says that the husband or the man is to forsake their own husbands in every thing.” Now in this pas- father and mother, because marriage is to be a unit sage of scripture, Ephesians 5:22-24, we notice that that sets up a new home, and is governed and controlled Paul says that Christ is not only the Head of the church, by no other than the one that God ordained. but the Savior of the body, which conveys to our heart The problems resulting from failing to leave father and mind the fact that Christ protects. He watches over and mother are not nearly as funny as our in-laws’ jokes and cares for the church, and so it is that man should would suggest. Many marriages are destroyed by med- endeavor to do the very same thing when it comes to dling parents and immature marriage partners. Don’t his wife and children. So Paul says, “As Christ is the be offended by what I just said, because it is true. Many head of the church, so the man is the head of the wife”; marriages are destroyed by meddling parents and and of course, the wife is then to be subject to her hus- immature marriage partners. Whenever a couple gets band in everything as the Bible says. Now don’t rebel married they are to set up a new home, and the man at that. That is the Word of God, and God knows best is to be the head of the wife. In marriage, the couple is for all of us. to cleave to each other. Again, referring to Matthew Man is to take the lead in spiritual matters. So 19:5. many times husbands and fathers fall short of this; but There are several factors that are very important it is true, man is to take the lead in spiritual matters. about this joining or cleaving. This joining should be First of all, he is to be an example by the life that he indicative of a physical, emotional, and spiritual close- lives. Then when it comes to family devotions, attend- ness. Yes, the thought of cleaving means that you stick ing the house of worship, etc., man is to take the lead, together; stay together. This joining demands a stan- not only in temporal things, but in spiritual things. dard of conduct and is to be permanent. Yes, this join- Man, in domestic matters, is to take care of his ing is to be permanent until separated by death. The companion and family. God saw that it was not good glue that holds this union together is love. Consider that man be alone, according to Genesis, chapter two, yourself as God would have you. Your marriage will be verses 18-20. You will notice as you read about the a blessing. Whether your marriage is a drudgery, or a Page 2 The Way of Truth foretaste of heaven itself, is largely up to you. Yes, your exemplify a godly life. Yes, he should live the kind of marriage will be what you make it. God stands ready life that his children can follow in his footsteps and to help you if you will but seek His help. make heaven their home. God instituted marriage for man and woman. The father should be an example regarding leader- “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, ship and headship. When I speak of leadership and and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one headship, I’m not talking about some cruel dictator who flesh.” Whoever thought years ago that we would have bosses people around. Husband, your headship is not to even say that marriage is for a man and a woman? a privilege, it is a responsibility, and a very grave Today, there are those who are pressing us to accept responsibility it is. and bless same-sex unions. A true Christian simply The father should take a leadership role in teaching cannot do that. I say, a true Christian cannot put his his children about God, the plan of salvation, the church, or her approval upon it. Read Romans, chapter one, conviction, morals, and living the life of a Christian. and see what the apostle Paul has to say. I’ll just read “These words, which I command thee this day, shall be verse 27. “And likewise also the men, leaving the in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou toward another; men with men working that which is sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the unseemly, and receiving in themselves that [reward] of way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest their error which was [due them].” If that isn’t plain up” (Deuteronomy 6:6, 7). enough for anyone to understand who wants to under- What about us fathers who no longer have children stand, then I don’t know how much plainer it would in the home? What are our responsibilities? Well, we need to be. So God instituted marriage for man and are to live a godly exemplary life before the children woman. “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his and young people; not just ours, but others. We are to mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall pray for our own children and for the young families be one flesh.” Again I say, cleave is indicative of the in the congregation. Yes, some of us have grandchildren; commitment to marriage as opposed to shacking up. so we need not only to pray for our children, but we Man is the provider. “But if any provide not for his need to pray for our grandchildren. We need to live an own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath exemplary life before our children and grandchildren, denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel,” so Paul and even the children and young people in the congre- wrote to Timothy in I Timothy 5:8. gation. Older women are to teach the younger women “to Someone has said, “Out of all the roles a man may be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, play in life, the role of father is the most fulfilling and To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient cherished.” Now if that is not true in your case, it should to their own husbands, that the word of God be not be. Let me read that again and finish the quote: “Out blasphemed” (Titus 2:4, 5). How greatly this is needed of all the roles a man may play in life, the role of father today! The younger women need to see in the older is the most fulfilling and cherished. As one grows older, women an example of what the Word of God sets forth the thoughts involved in fatherhood are the most cher- for husbands and wives. ished.” Truly, that quote carries with it a lot of good Man, as husband and father, is to establish a new thought and truth. home when he marries. Again I say, “Therefore shall a We are not always going to be young; we are not man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave always going to have our children at home. So if we live unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” The husband the right kind of life as a father and husband we should is to love his wife “as Christ also loved the church, and be to our wife and children, then as we do grow older, gave himself for it” (Ephesians 5:25). I’ve said many we can have many precious thoughts and memories of times in preaching, if a wife has a husband who loves our marriage, our childhood, our home, and our children. her as much as Christ loved the church, she is blessed It is still a joy to me to have our grandchildren to come indeed, for Christ loved the church so much that He and visit with us. We enjoy their love and affection. So gave Himself for her. If a husband loves his wife as live the life, be an influence; and remember, you have the responsibility to God, to your wife, your children, Christ loved the church, he will be willing to give him-  self for his wife; and surely, if he loves her as Christ and even to your grandchildren. loved the church, he will not be abusing her. There is more to fatherhood than just being respon- NEW BOOK AVAILABLE! sible for the conception of a child. The father is presented in the Scriptures as also the leader in the training of Stories from “The Children’s Corner” the children. I repeat, the father is presented in the By the late Wanda Craig Scriptures as also the leader in the training of the chil- Sis. Wanda Craig passed into glory in December dren. Too many times this is left to the wife and mother. 2007. Her first story for children was printed in the “Fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring April 2000 issue of The Way of Truth. Her last one them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord” was printed in April 2011. We have compiled them all (Ephesians 6:4). Fathers, Husbands, you really cannot in a new 216 page book which is spiral bound. This fully do that unless you are a child of God who is new book is available for US$10 plus $3 postage in dedicated to Christ and His cause. “Fathers, provoke the U.S. (International postage is US$14.34.) Send not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the your order today! nurture and admonition of the Lord.” The father should June 2012 Page 3 Repairing Strained Relationships 2011 Cayman Convention Message by Bro. Gregory E. Tyler

T’S CONVENTION TIME! Let’s forget about the One of the defini- clock. Let’s put our whole heart into the service of tions of relationship GOD’S I the Lord. I appreciate the convention thus far, and is, “a state of affairs the blessings we all have received. I’d like to express existing between AMAZING my appreciation for the hospitality of the saints of God those having rela- GRACE— here in Grand Cayman. As usual, you make us feel so tions, dealings, or SURE HOPE Theme of welcome. You feed us so good. You just take care of us associations.” Some- FOR 2011 so wonderfully. I’ve never met anyone who has been to one has said, “Chris- Cayman Grand Cayman who didn’t want to come back. I keep tianity is not a reli- TROUBLED Convention coming back, and back, and back. Every time I come, gion; it is a relation- TIMES I am blessed. My prayer is that I will be a blessing, and ship.” I will receive a blessing. I trust the Lord will use me “Right relation- tonight. ships are the soil in We had prayer services and fasting before the con- which the reward of righteousness can grow. And the vention, earnestly seeking the Lord that He would have only people who can sow these seeds, and who will reap His way. The ministers in the Ministers’ meeting have the reward, are those whose life’s work it has been to prayed that the Lord will lead and guide us. There is produce such right relationships.” Our lives are full of only one Bro. Alvin, one Bro. Junior, but we’re all work- relationships; and doubtless, there are some here who ers together with God. I’m so glad we don’t have just are experiencing strained relationships in your life. one or two ministers, but we have a whole platform This message is especially to you that you might take full. This is only a portion of them. note of God’s will, and that you might put forth an effort I want to thank the Lord for His help to me last to heal or to repair that strained relationship before it night. I was in excruciating pain. I don’t know where gets broken. it came from, but I could hardly stand it. I had to go in the side room for a short time. Bro. Junior and some of STRAINS IN THE FAMILY UNIT the ministers came in and prayed for me. As soon as We will start with the family, the family unit. The Bro. Junior said, “Amen,” I was relieved of the pain. It basic unit for mankind is the family—man, woman, wasn’t completely gone, but it was very tolerable. I children. It is a beautiful thing, isn’t it? I was able to know God touched me, and I thank Him for it. call home today. Today is Thanksgiving Day, and I Time is getting away from us, so let us get into the caught my family at home just ready to cut into the Word of God. Our text comes from First John, chapter turkey. Six of my seven children were home with their four, beginning with verse 15—“Whosoever shall con- husbands, their wives, and my grandchildren. There fess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, was an empty seat at the table; but when I was on the and he in God. And we have known and believed the phone they said, “Daddy, we’re just getting ready to love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that eat. Will you say the blessing?” From over a thousand dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein miles away, I was able to take part in our Thanksgiving is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in meal at home. Family is a wonderful thing. My family the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this understands that I am a minister of the gospel. They world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth know my first responsibility is to God. They have never out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is kept anything in their hearts against God because of not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first that. I appreciate that. I love my family, and I think loved us. If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, the family unit is a beautiful thing. he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he Problems can arise in the family unit. It starts with hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? the husband and wife. Now some in the United States And this commandment have we from him, That he of America seem to have a problem determining what who loveth God love his brother also.” I have entitled a family unit is. They are trying to undo what they have my thoughts tonight, “Repairing Strained Relation- already done. They said the family unit is husband and ships.” wife. Now they are trying to change that, but God made Our lives are full of relationships. No man is an man and woman. He made them upright. God made island unto himself. We’re part of society, and during Adam out of the dust of the earth, and He saw that it the course of life, our relationships with other people was not good that Adam be alone, so He decided to can become strained. If neglected, they become broken. make something a little better—a woman. God didn’t God does not will that we have broken relationships. make another man. He didn’t say, “Adam, here is God wills that we love one another. God wills that we George; Adam, here is Walter.” And He didn’t say, reign in peace. “Adam, here is Jane, and Samantha, and Sarah.” He Page 4 The Way of Truth didn’t make a bunch of women for the one man. I know minute here. What happened to me?” So I got out of in Old Testament times some had a lot of wives, but it our car quickly, and as Ellen started to get out I said, was never God’s will. We see God’s will in the beginning. “You just sit there for a minute,” and I went around He made one woman. I don’t know how you feel, but I and opened her door. She said, “What are you doing?” think one woman is sufficient. It is a full-time job for I said, “Bro. John doesn’t love his wife more than I love a man to keep one woman happy. you, dear. Bro. John doesn’t respect his wife more than God’s plan is beautiful, but we’re human beings, I respect you.” There’s nothing wrong with that. Honor and we have problems. Bro. Alvin often quotes, “We’ll your wife. Care for her. The marriage relationship is have trouble in the flesh.” Now as happy as you are as so important. The family unit depends on a healthy husband and wife, we all know that we have problems family relationship. from time to time. Living under the same roof and see- I have written down a couple of secrets to a happy ing each other constantly, things will crop up from time marriage— to time; and if we’re not careful, our relationship will Number 1: Consideration of God’s will. We are to become strained. It needs our attention. We don’t want love God more than we are to love our spouse. That the strain to become a tear. We don’t want the tear to doesn’t seem to make sense to some people. Some get become a break. Bro. Norman and I were talking a offended at that, but we are to love Christ more than little bit today about how long he and Sis. Virginia have we love husband, wife, children, brothers, sisters, and been married. He met his wife as a teenager, and he’s our own life also. I want my wife to love God more than been in love with one woman all these 52 years. That’s she loves me, because then she can be the very best the way it ought to be. So many people get married, wife she can possibly be. Some people make idols out and in six months they have departed from one another. of their spouses and leave God out of the picture. That How can that be? It has to be that they were not truly is a mistake. The most healthy thing you can do for in love. True love will not produce something such as your marriage is to become a Christian so you can live that. for God, and to serve Him with all your heart, soul, INSTRUCTIONS FOR HUSBANDS AND WIVES mind, and strength. God will help you to be the husband The Bible has some things to say to husbands and and wife you ought to be. wives, which is the basis for happiness. Ephesians 5:24, I thought in studying for this message, how wonder- 25, “Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so ful it would be to see husbands and wives come hand let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. in hand to the altar to pray together tonight, to draw Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved closer to one another and closer to God. I believe the the church, and gave himself for it.” Husbands are to closer you draw to God, the closer you will draw to one love their wives as Christ loved the church. That is a another. Remember this, there is an adversary who high standard, isn’t it? We need the grace of God to be hates the marriage relationship, and he is out to destroy able to do that. I don’t think it is impossible. Christ did every one of them. He has been so successful. The divorce not command to do the impossible. It is possible to love rate is so high today, but the Church of God should have your wife as Christ loved the church, but we have to healthy marriage relationships. The Church of God be aware that there’s an enemy who is trying to take should be wise enough to know when the enemy is our love away. working. The Church of God should take time to repair The Bible says in Colossians 3:19, “Husbands, love strained relationships in the home. Don’t yell at one your wives, and be not bitter against them.” A strained another. Don’t argue in front of your children. I remem- relationship can cause bitterness. Husbands and wives, ber one time we were sitting around the table when be careful. Don’t allow bitterness to come into your our children were smaller, and Ellen and I were dis- heart. If you feel your relationship is getting strained, agreeing about something. I don’t even remember what focus on it. Pray together, talk, communicate, work it it was, but I said something sharp to her. I said, “Honey, out. God will help you to do so. I Peter 3:7, “Likewise, let’s go back in the bedroom.” I didn’t want to have a ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, conversation in front of our children with that tone of giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, voice. The children told me later that they were all out and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that by the table crying because they thought Mommy and your prayers be not hindered.” If there is a strain or a Daddy were going to separate. They never did see us problem in the husband and wife relationship, it can argue. So don’t argue in front of your children. They hinder your prayers, so you need to pay attention to it. need to see a healthy relationship. To know how to be Maybe there is no one that needs this, but this is the a husband to his wife, and to know how to be a wife to Word of God, and I believe with all of my heart that her husband, they need to see it in the home. this is the message God has given us for tonight, Number 2: Common love and respect for each “Repairing Strained Relationships.” other. Husbands, give honor unto your wife. Now, I have Someone has said— a confession to make. Through the 40 years that I’ve “There is an application of agape love to marriage: been married, I’ve let some things slip. Bro. John Little Agape is not born of a lover’s need, nor does it have its and Sis. Nancy Bowers got married in Hagerstown. source in the love object. Agape doesn’t exist in order to They park their car pretty close to where we park when get what it wants but empties itself to give what the we pull in for services. When they pulled in the other other needs. Its motives rise wholly from within its own Wednesday night, Bro. John got out of the car and nature. Agape lives in order to die to self for the blessed- opened his wife’s door. I said to myself, “Wait just a ness of caring for another, spending for another, spend- June 2012 Page 5 ing itself for the sake of the beloved.” I think husbands a child will not talk to his parent, or the parent will and wives should have more than a physical attraction. not talk to his child? The Bible says, “Fathers, provoke They should have agape love; a deep love for one not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the another. nurture and admonition of the Lord.” It is the father’s Number 3: Caring—Affectionate—Romantic responsibility to provide a home atmosphere that is holy, proper, and good for a child to grow up in; and to, Someone else has said— “Bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the “We are souls living in bodies. Therefore when we Lord.” I believe it is right to discipline your children; really fall in love, it isn’t just physical attraction. If it not to let them do what they want to do, but discipline is just that, it won’t last. Ideally, it’s also spiritual attrac- must be done in love and with respect. Parents should tion. God has opened our eyes and let us see into some- never discipline their children after losing their temper. one’s soul. We have fallen in love with the inner person, How hard is that? I’ve had to apologize to my children the person who is going to live forever. That’s why God more than once for taking a paddle when I was upset. is the greatest asset to romance. He thought it up in the I should have waited until I cooled off a little bit. They first place. Include Him in every part of your marriage, needed correction, but there is a right way and a wrong and He will lift it up above the level of the mundane to way to do it. Sometimes parents are too hard on their something rare and beautiful and lasting.”—Peter children, and they drive them away. The children can’t Marshall. Isn’t it true? wait until they get out of their home. Our homes should We should have love and respect for one another. be better than that. It should be an atmosphere of love. We should be affectionate. Keep the romance alive. It Don’t let a strained relationship become torn and bro- is not always easy to do after 30 or 40 years, but we ken. If you feel your relationship with your children is read in Song of Solomon 1:2, “Let him kiss me with the falling apart, you need to put some attention upon it. kisses of his mouth.” Later on in Song of Solomon we Spend some time with your children. Do some things read, “Behold, thou art fair, my love; behold, thou art they like to do. Show them love. fair; thou hast doves’ eyes.” When was the last time you Mothers are to teach the young women to be sober told your wife she has doves’ eyes? When was the last and to love their husbands and children. “Fathers, time you told her she was fair? When was the last time, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discour- Husband, you told her she was beautiful? “Well, Bro. aged,” the Bible says. Sometimes the reason for the Greg, you don’t know my wife.” Beauty is in the eyes break is not on the father and mother’s part, but on the of the beholder. True beauty goes beyond the physical. child’s part. Some children are just naturally more It goes to the spirit of the person. If you’re married, rebellious than other children; and in a Christian fam- reach over and touch your spouse right now. Hold her ily, it is hard to get close to a rebellious child, but we hand. Squeeze it. Let it be known you care. We neglect need to spend time trying to repair that strained rela- these things, and give the devil opportunity to work. tionship that we have with our children. Their souls lie Repair your strained relationship, if you’re having one in the balance. Every child desires to have a good rela- as husband and wife. I truly believe the Church of God tionship with their parents, even if they might say should be an example in this. otherwise. Even if they might say, “I hate you.” They Number 4: Commitment to make it work. There don’t really hate you. Deep down inside there is a should never be a divorce in the Church of God. There respect for their parents. “Children, obey your parents should never be a breakup. We should set the example in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and of how husbands and wives ought to be committed to mother; which is the first commandment with promise; one another. That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live Number 5: Communication. Talk to one another. long on the earth.” “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon Children, respect your parents. If you are being your wrath,” the Bible says. Talk things out. We don’t brought up in a Christian home, you need to be thankful talk enough. Sometimes Ellen and I talk at night after for that. Children are left on the streets today. They are we have prayer. That’s the only time in our busy lives neglected. If you have Christian parents, you are blessed that we have time together sometimes. She has her beyond measure. You should appreciate it. You may not responsibilities, and I have mine, but we try to talk understand everything, but you should be thankful to things out. Sometimes I fall asleep on her, but we need have Christian parents. If something happens that to communicate. We need to talk things out. We need there’s a breach, if something happens that your rela- to nip the devil in the bud. We need to repair any rela- tionship with your parents becomes strained, Children, tionship that becomes strained. you take the first step to repair it. Don’t wait on your Number 6: Conforming to God’s Blueprint. We must parents. You can start the ball rolling. All children want pray together. Praying together keeps us together as to have a good relationship with their parents. husband as wife. The story is told in Spain of a father and his teenage son who had a relationship that had become strained. THE PARENT/CHILD RELATIONSHIP So the son ran away from home. His father, however, Parents-children: The husband and wife relation- began a journey in search of his rebellious son. Finally, ship is not the only relationship that becomes strained. in Madrid, in a last desperate effort to find him, the Many times there is a strain between parents and father put an ad in the newspaper. The ad read: “Dear children. How many children are alienated from their Paco, meet me in front of the newspaper office at noon. parents today? It is a sad thing, is it not, to hear that All is forgiven. I love you. Your father.” Page 6 The Way of Truth The next day at noon in front of the newspaper office Then we see Esau approaching the family. He came 800 “Pacos” showed up. They were all seeking forgive- closer and closer to Jacob. The Bible says that Jacob ness and love from their fathers. bowed himself down. Jacob did not take a bad attitude. Strained relationships become broken. They need He bowed himself to his brother, not once, not twice, attention when you feel the strain is beginning. We but seven times. He was repentant. That is how you don’t want our children to be estranged from us. God repair a strained relationship. Be repentant for the wants the family unit to be close (husband and wife, mistakes that have been made. We all make mistakes. father and mother). We all need to say, “I am sorry,” from time to time. The Bible tells us about the prodigal son, and we Sometimes that is what needs to be said. Sometimes use that as an example of a lost soul coming back to those are the three hardest words to say. But Jacob was God; but I also think that you can see in that parable in effect saying that. He bowed himself seven times, the relationship between a father and son being and Esau came to him and fell on his neck and kissed repaired. The son left home, doubtless, quite angry. He him. They wept on each other’s neck. The strained didn’t want to live under the rules and regulations of relationship was repaired by humility and love. the home. He wanted to get out on his own. He wanted We read in the Bible about Joseph, and how he was to do his own thing as so many children want to do. He mistreated by his brothers. They hated him and was got himself into trouble, and he fell very low. Then he going to kill him. They sold him into slavery. After many decided to come back home; and as he came home and years, the brothers repented for what they had done, saw his father, his father didn’t say, “Well, enough for and Joseph forgave them. They were restored. you. You made your bed, lie in it.” The Bible tells us It is a beautiful thing to see husband, wife, father, that the father met him with open arms and welcomed mother and children all loving and respecting one him home. another. That is the way God wants it. If there are If you are estranged from your children, don’t hold siblings who are here tonight and are fighting and or harbor malice against them. If your children make quarreling among yourselves, bury the hatchet. Take an attempt to patch up your relationship, Parents, be the humble route. Repair that strained relationship. tender. Accept them back. Forgiveness is the order of God’s not pleased with it. It doesn’t matter who is the day. Repair that strained relationship. responsible for it. “As much as lieth in you, live peace- Other relationships in life can become strained. For ably with all men.” instance: STRAINS AMONG CO-WORKERS SIBLING RELATIONSHIPS How about co-workers and church brethren? How about siblings—brothers and sisters? There Strained relationships. Jesus said in the Sermon on are brothers and sisters who won’t talk to one another, the Mount, “Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, but were brought up in the same home. How can that and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought be? yet, it is! God does not want siblings to fight and against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and argue among themselves. There’s nothing more beauti- go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then ful than siblings hugging one another. We are reminded come and offer thy gift.” That is practical Christian in the Bible of the story of Jacob and Esau, and how living. Be reconciled to thy brother. Things happen Jacob did Esau wrong. It is true that Esau was a carnal among the family of man that cause relationships to man; but when Esau came in hungry from the fields, become strained. We cannot be satisfied with that, if Jacob loved him as he should have, he would have because most of the time strained relationships develop given him pottage without any requirements. Jacob into more serious breaches and breaks. Repair them was selfish. He wanted something for himself. A lot of while they are repairable. Put forth the effort. times that is the root of strained relationships; that is, Someone has said— someone being selfish, self-centered. Jacob robbed Esau “Reconciliation is not weakness or cowardice. It of his blessing as well. Esau wanted to kill Jacob, demands courage, nobility, generosity, sometimes hero- because the hatred was so deep. Can you imagine a ism, an overcoming of oneself rather than of one’s brother wanting to kill his brother? adversary.” So put forth the effort to be reconciled to When his mother heard that Esau wanted to kill your brother. Jacob, she sent him away to Laban, and he lived there Resolve the quarrel. Yes, it is possible to quarrel. with him. We know the story that after deceiving his Turn your Bibles to Colossians 3:12-15. God wants us father into getting the blessing, Jacob himself was to repair our strained relationships. “Put on therefore, deceived. He wanted to marry Rachel. He ended up as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, marrying Leah instead and then Rachel. Finally, Jacob kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; wanted to repair the breach with his sibling, so he sent Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if some gifts ahead and word that he was coming home. any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ The word came back to Jacob that Esau, his brother, forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things was coming with 400 men, and he knew it wasn’t a put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And welcoming party. So Jacob went to pray. The Bible says let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which that he wrestled with an angel there, and he wanted also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.” to be released, but Jacob said, “I will not let thee go, A quarrel means, “an angry dispute; disagreement; except thou bless me.” His name was changed to Israel argument.” Now I don’t know why the Lord has laid because of the victory he gained there. this message on my heart, but He has a purpose in all June 2012 Page 7 that He does. If you’re quarreling with someone, you’re opinion of David. Be careful that our opinions are not not smiling. You don’t say while smiling, “I’m having a dictated by what people think of us. If and when quar- problem with someone. I’m quarreling with my neigh- rels arise, there is a proper course to resolve quarrels. bor.” There’s a frown involved, isn’t there? We’re human “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon beings, but Paul said to the Colossian church, “If any your wrath.” man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave In Colossians 3, it says to put on some things: Bow- you, so also do ye.” Don’t refuse to forgive someone if els of mercies—“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall he repents of what he’s done. Christ is our example. He obtain mercy.” Mercy will work. Mercy will repair a forgave those who crucified Him. We must forgive one strained relationship. Kindness—“And be ye kind one another. Quarrels come through the course of life. Con- to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even flict of interests—selfishness—prior relationships— as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Have man- circumstances out of your control; whatever the cause, ners. Being polite and respectful will help heal a strained if there’s a quarrel between you and a brother or sister, relationship. Humbleness of mind—Pride causes strife. God wants you to repair it. Don’t let it go. Pray about “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words it. Be led of the Spirit, but deal with it, for God wants stir up anger.” Meekness; Longsuffering; Forbearing one us to repair our strained or broken relationships. another—Someone might say, “I’m not going to put up with that!” Christ forbore with us. We need to forbear MAKE EFFORT TO AVOID QUARRELS with one another. Paul said, “I therefore, the prisoner Effort should be made to avoid quarrels, because of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the when you’re quarreling, often the truth is lost. You get vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness emotional; you get offended. Sometimes you forget what and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one you’re quarreling about to begin with. The devil tries another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the to plant a grudge in your heart or enmity in your heart Spirit in the bond of peace.” Church of God, pay atten- against a brother or sister. God’s not pleased with that. tion to the message tonight. If there’s a strained rela- “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called tionship, work on repairing it. Don’t let it become torn the children of God.” The Scriptures say, “Bowels of or broken. God won’t be pleased with that. As much as mercies”; not just a little bit. Romans 14:19 says, “Let lieth in you, repair the strained relationship. Forgiving us therefore follow after the things which make for one another; Charity, which is the bond of perfectness. peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.” We are to put off some things. Colossians 3:8, 9, I read something that really moved on my heart “But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, recently— blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.” In our relationships with others, often what passes Be careful what you say about your neighbor. Don’t run for love is little more than a neat business transaction. them down; don’t curse them. God is not pleased with People are kind to us, so we repay them with equal that. “Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put consideration. When they treat us unjustly, our negative off the old man with his deeds.” response is really what they asked for. Everything is so STRAINS BETWEEN MAN AND GOD balanced, so fair, so logical with this eye-for-an-eye and tooth-for-a-tooth kind of justice. But Christian love never We have talked about some human relationships, settles for only what’s reasonable. It insists on giving but let me close with one last relationship; that is, our relationship with God. This is the most important rela- mercy as well as justice. It breaks the chain of logical tionship in our lives. With so many people, that rela- reactions. tionship with God has become strained, torn; and in General Robert E. Lee was asked what he thought some cases, even broken. With some people, they have of a fellow officer in the Confederate Army who had no relationship at all with God. God has done all that made some derogatory remarks about him. Lee rated He could possibly do to repair His relationship with him as being very satisfactory. The person who asked you. Your sins have separated you from God. “For God the question seemed perplexed. so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, “General,” he said, “I guess you don’t know what he’s that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but been saying about you.” have everlasting life.” God gave His Son to repair the “I know,” answered Lee. “But I was asked my opin- relationship between you and the Father. What love ion of him, not his opinion of me!” God has! He’s willing to forgive. He’s willing to accept So often our opinion of others depends on their you back. He’s willing to repair that strained relation- opinion of us. They treat us badly, we treat them badly. ship, but you must take the step. You must step out If they don’t like us, we don’t like them. That’s not and “receive with meekness the engrafted word, which Christianity. We’re not to react, we’re to act. We’re to is able to save your souls.” love our neighbor as ourselves. We’re to love even our Oswald Chambers said, “Man cannot find true enemies. Don’t allow what someone thinks of you to essential joy anywhere but in his relationship to God. base your opinion of them. Profound, is it not? This is the only place you can find real joy. I read about David in the book of Samuel, and how We read in II Corinthians 5:20, “Now then we are Saul hated David. How many times Saul tried to kill ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you David! How many times the Lord delivered Saul into by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled David’s hands, and David could have done him harm! to God.” If you only pay attention to one thing, pay But time and again, he would not touch God’s anointed. attention to your relationship with God. If your rela- David’s opinion of Saul was not dependent on Saul’s tionship with God is what it ought to be, the other Page 8 The Way of Truth relationships will follow suit. “Behold, now is the and he will draw nigh to you.” God wants your relation- accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” I ship with Him to be close. say, God has done everything in His power to heal the I John 4:19-21, “We love him, because he first loved breach between you and Him. He sent His only Son us. If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he into the world, He sent His Holy Spirit to deal with is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he your heart, He has given you grace to be alive and hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? protected you to this very hour, He has given you this And this commandment have we from him, That he opportunity tonight to resolve the issue, but the deci- who loveth God love his brother also.” sion is yours. God can only go so far. You must take the “Repairing Strained Relationships.” Don’t let those other step. You must come to Him. Your soul is too strains to continue. Let God help you to repair them. important to neglect. Your soul needs to repair its rela- You, the church, and the world will be better for it. God tionship with God. help you.  Bro. Alvin said one night recently, “You can talk to your soul.” You need to tell your soul to repair your 2011 CAYMAN CONVENTION TAPES relationship with God. If you don’t repair that relation- We are making available cassette tapes of the wonderful services of the 2011 ship, you will be lost forever. Time is passing by so Cayman Convention. They may be purchased for $3.00 each. The complete set of quickly. Little time remains. Life is fragile. We are only all 17 services plus 3 musical tapes are only US$40.00. here for a short time. Car accidents happen; heart Please include number and title of individual tapes ordered. Send check or attacks happen. Jesus said in one place that it is not money order to: The Way of Truth, Cassette Tape Ministry, P. O. Box 88, Hagerstown, that some people are more wicked than others, these MD 21741 U. S. A. things just happen in the course of life. He said, “I tell Convention Messages you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise C-4089 God’s Amazing Grace—Sure Hope for Troubled Times James Arch perish.” Some day soon your life will come to an end, and then what? While you have opportunity, the right C-4090 God’s Amazing Grace M. H. Trisler, Jr. use of your mind, and your will under your control, C-4091 A Woman Called Mary Alvin Craig choose to serve God. Choose to return to Father’s house C-4092 Ten Mysteries of the Bible Gregory Tyler as the prodigal son came to his father. You can return C-4093 God’s Amazing Grace—Sure Hope for Troubled Times David Shaw to God tonight. C-4094 When You Come to Die, What Will Really Be Important? Alvin Craig Putting your soul’s salvation off only makes it C-4095 God’s Amazing Grace and What It Can Do Terry Deville harder. You have heard me say before that tomorrow C-4096 Correction Unto Righteousness Martel Watler it will be harder to get saved than tonight. Next week C-4097 Repairing Strained Relationships Gregory Tyler will be harder than tonight. Next month will be even harder. Next year will even be more difficult. The lon- C-4098 Man Is Full of Trouble Hezekiah Lamey ger you wait, the harder it is going to be to repair this C-4099 Sin Is Costly Alvin Craig relationship with God. Tonight is the time. “Behold, C-4100 Thou Shalt Love Thy Neighbor as Thyself Rupert Shippy now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of C-4101 Standing Strong—Awaiting the Blessing Garry Jeffries salvation.” You can only get saved while the Spirit calls C-4102 We Have a Hope M. H. Trisler, Jr. you. You can only repair this relationship with God C-4103 Hope and Solution James Arch while the Spirit is calling you, and I believe the Lord C-4104 Lift Up a Standard for the People YP’s Service is calling some people tonight. He wants to restore your relationship with Him. He wants to have fellowship C-4105 This Is My Beloved Son; Hear Ye Him Alvin Craig with you. He wants to forgive you of your sins, cleanse CM-245 Cayman Convention Singing #1 you, and make you whole. CM-246 Cayman Convention Singing #2 God said in Genesis 6:3, “My spirit shall not always CM-247 Cayman Convention Singing #3 strive with man.” That is another reason why you need to take care of this relationship tonight, because you don’t know when His Spirit will stop dealing with you. THE CHURCH OF GOD There is nothing to gain by procrastinating. “What shall STANDS FOR it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and An eternal God Psalm 90:2 lose his own soul?” Nothing to gain but your soul to A divine Christ John 1:1, 14 lose. Your soul is your most important possession. It is An infallibly inspired Bible II Timothy 3:16 high time to repair your relationship with God. Tomor- row may be too late. Meet God halfway, as it were. He Salvation from sin Matthew 1:21 is here to save your soul, forgive your sins, and to repair The new birth John 3:1-7 that broken relationship you have with Him, but you Entire Sanctification Ephesians 5:25, 26 must be the one to respond. A holy life Titus 2:11, 12 CONCLUSION Unity of God’s people John 17:21 Divine Healing James 5:14, 15 In conclusion, get along with one another, work out The Ordinances Matthew 28:19, 20 your problems, communicate, pray together, and let God have His way. If there be any strained relationship Eternal life Matthew 25:46 in your life, work on it now. Parents and Children, come John 3:15; 6:54; 10:28 to the altar. Husbands and Wives, come to the altar. Eternal punishment Mark 9:43-46 Sinner Friend, come to the altar. “Draw nigh to God, June 2012 Page 9 THE POETRY PAGE A TRIBUTE TO FATHER Byron P. Tousignant Children’s Day, June 10 A father is a guiding light Father’s Day, June 17 Sent to us from above. EVERY CHILD’S FRIEND He listens to our sorrows Eula May Lutzenhiser And soothes them with his love. Every child has a Friend A father is a teacher Who is good and kind and true; Whose place no one could take, And Jesus is this Friend’s name For he’s the source from which Who cares so much for you. We learn to think and navigate. He watches o’er His children A father is a gift from God All through the long, dark night, From which we learn to be And brings them ever safely Patient, strong and loving, Unto the morning light. Filled with integrity. And other friends may leave them, MY FATHER But Jesus never will— Lois O. Painter Others may not seem to care, But Jesus loves them still. His hands are gnarled and calloused, His face is worn with care; Yes, Jesus loves His children, His shoulders droop beneath life’s load— He loves them every one; Dad’s always done his share. And He will guide them safely Till all the days are done. How oft those hands have guided me When two roads I have met, BE KIND TO FATHER Like signposts, pointing me to God; Anonymous Dad’s never failed me yet. My boy, be kind to your father, Dad’s face, though worn and wrinkled, For he’s been kind to you; Is handsome yet today, He’s sought to lead you safely He smiles, and looks me in the eye— Your life’s brief pathway through; Love chases care away. He’s cared for you and loved you, And tried to save you pain, DAD’S GREATEST JOB And given kindly counsel— I may never be as clever I hope not all in vain. As my neighbors down the street, He wants to see you happy, I may never be as wealthy He wants to see you true; As some other men I meet. His hope and pride are centered, I may never have the glory Believe it, boy, in you. That some other men have had, How much of joy and comfort But I’ve got to be successful Is in your power to give As a little fellow’s Dad. This faithful Christian father, I may never get earth’s glory, If rightfully you live! I may never gather gold; Be manly, true, and honest Men may count me as a failure In everything that’s done, When my business life is told. And show him that his counsel But if he who follows after Is treasured by his son. Is a Christian, I’ll be glad, Be kind when old age sprinkles For I’ll know I’ve been successful Its snowflakes in his hair, As a little fellow’s Dad. And make his last days happy —Selected With loving words and care. HAPPY FATHER'S DAY! Page 10 The Way of Truth THE VEIL partition of separation. The Israelite and the Gentile were not permitted to intermingle. They were not to WAS RENT intermarry, have mutual business affairs, eat at the same table, etc. This was meant to protect the Israelites IN TWAIN from the influence of the Gentile idol worship. This veil was not only in use in the tabernacle, but also in the By Bro. Hoyt Matthews future temples that replaced the wilderness tabernacle. The temple built by Herod the Great, the temple that

the disciples were showing to Jesus because of its great HEN THE Hebrew nation of Israel was passing beauty and splendor, had the veil at the entrance to through the Sinai Desert during the exodus from the Holy of Holies. Jesus predicted that not one stone W Egyptian bondage, God called for Moses to come of this beautiful edifice would be left upon another, that up to the top of Mount Sinai. Moses was on the Mount the temple would be destroyed. This came to pass in for forty days and forty nights. It was on Mount Sinai the year A.D. 70. (More on this later). that Moses received from God two tables of stone on which were written, by the finger of God, the Ten Com- When Jesus drew His last breath as He suffered mandments. It was at this time also that God gave death by crucifixion, the veil of the temple was rent in Moses detailed instructions for the building of the tab- twain. The renting in twain of the veil abolished the ernacle which was to become a type of the New Testa- wall of partition between Jew and Gentile. In speaking ment church. The tabernacle was to be a two room of the Gentiles, Jesus said during his ministry, “And sanctuary surrounded by a court which had but one other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also entrance. Each of the two rooms of the tabernacle had I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there but one entrance, with each entrance being covered by shall be one fold, and one shepherd” (John 10:16). a veil. Jesus said, “I am the door: by me if any man The Old Testament literal nation of Israel was a type enter in, he shall be saved” (John 10:9). The court could of the New Testament spiritual nation of Israel. The only be entered by one who belonged to one of the twelve renting of the veil also brought an end to the literal tribes of Israel. It was not accessible to the Gentile. nation of Israel as God’s chosen people. In the New As the penitent sinner entered the court leading his Testament Israel, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there animal sacrifice, he found a brazen altar and a laver. is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: With one hand on the animal’s head, with the other for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ’s, hand he cut the throat of the animal and a priest caught then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the the blood in a basin and sprinkled it on the altar. The promise” (Galatians 3:28, 29). “And whosoever will, let body of the animal was then cut in pieces and placed him take the water of life freely” (Revelation 22:17). on the altar and burned. The court, then, was a type of This article is not an anti-Semitic message. Ethnic- Holy Ghost conviction and the convicted sinner coming ity, race, color, etc., should not determine our respect to the altar (Christ). The animal was a type of Christ of persons. There is no respect of persons with God. whose blood was shed for remission of sin, for “without Jesus tasted death for every man. Every human being shedding of blood is no remission” (Hebrews 9:22). The must be within our evangelical vision. In the last com- altar, then, was a type of our justification. The justified mission, Jesus instructed His disciples to, “Go ye into person was represented by the priest, and it was the all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” priest that entered the first room in the justified one’s (Mark 16:15). What you will read here concerning the stead. But the priest dared not enter the first room Middle East nation of Israel is an effort to expose false without first washing his hands and his feet in the laver. prophesy concerning the present day Jewish nation. Forgiveness for sin was given at the brazen altar and There is much prophesy concerning the present the washing of regeneration took place at the laver. day nation of Israel that is not supported by the Scrip- The priest ministered in the first room in which was tures. There is much misunderstanding regarding God’s located the table of shewbread, the seven golden candle- covenant with Abraham and the nation of Israel in our sticks, and the golden altar. The golden altar was located day. It is being taught that some time in the future, all just outside the entrance to the second room called the Israel shall be saved. Romans 11:26 does say that all Holy of Holies. The priest ministered at the golden altar, Israel shall be saved, but who is the Israel this verse also called the altar of incense, by bringing blood that is speaking of? In God’s covenant with Abraham, Abra- was sprinkled on the brazen altar and placing it on the ham’s seed that should come through Isaac, Jacob, and horns of the altar. Live coals from the brazen altar were Jacob’s twelve sons would inherit the land of Canaan. also brought to the golden altar where the incense was This part of the covenant came to an end at the first burned. The application of blood to the horns of the coming of Christ. However, this covenant also included golden altar was typical of a second cleansing or sanc- Abraham’s seed (Israel) of the New Testament. The tification. The burning of incense was typical of the Israel of the New Testament is not literal, but spiritual. saints’ prayers ascending as a sweet incense to the Let us document this statement with the Word of God. throne of God. Only the high priest could enter the “Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the second room, and then only once a year, not without same are the children of Abraham. And the scripture, blood. The second room, then, was a type of the second foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through work of grace, sanctification. faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, The veil which was at the entrance to the Holy of In thee shall all nations be blessed. So then they which Holies had great typical significance. This veil was a be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham” (Gala- June 2012 Page 11 tians 3:7-9). “And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s cast away the Jews. They have the same access to seed, and heirs according to the promise” (Galatians spiritual Israel as all others, but they must come by 3:29). “They are not all Israel, which are of Israel: Nei- the door, Christ Jesus. In Christ Jesus, we are all one, ther, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they for the veil of the temple has been rent in twain. all children” (Romans 9:6, 7). “For he is not a Jew, which In acknowledging research material used in writing is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is this article, the Word of God was the most frequently outward in the flesh: But he is a Jew, which is one used. In addition to this, much has been learned from inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the the ministry of my pastor. Other research materials spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, included Clark’s Commentary, and the booklet, What but of God” (Romans 2:28, 29). the Bible Says About Israel.  At Christ’s first coming, “He came unto his own [the Jews], and his own received him not” (John 1:11). When Jesus’ disciples came to Him to show Him the beauty and splendor of the temple and the buildings BIBLE LESSON OF THE MONTH surrounding it, He said, “See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down” Lessons From the Book of Philippians (Matthew 24:1, 2). Jesus was foretelling here the LESSON NUMBER FOUR destruction of the city of Jerusalem. There was no further New Testament prophesy of the nation of Israel HAVING THE MIND OF CHRIST following its destruction. When Jesus wept over Jerusalem, He said, “O Jeru- Scriptures: Philippians 2:5-11; I Corinthians 2:16; salem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and Romans 12:2; Hebrews 8:10; II Timothy 1:7; Colossians stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would 3:12; II Thessalonians 2:2. I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would Jesus: not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate” (Mat- 6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal thew 23: 37, 38). In the book of Luke, Jesus again warns with God: Israel of the pending destruction of both the temple 7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form and city of Jerusalem, saying, “If thou hadst known, of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong to thy peace! but now they are hid from thine 8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and eyes. For the days shall come upon thee, that thine became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a thee round, and keep thee in on every side, And shall name which is above every name: lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things thee; and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; another; because thou knewest not the time of thy 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, visitation” (Luke 19:41-44). This is precisely what took to the glory of God the Father. place when the Roman general, Titus, laid siege to I Corinthians 2:16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that Jerusalem in A.D. 70. he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ. After Jesus had been taken to Pilate, Pilate asked Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye the Jews, “What shall I do with Jesus which is called transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is Christ?” They all said unto him, “Let him be crucified.” that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. They further cried out, “His blood be on us, and on our Hebrews 8:10 For this is the covenant that I will make with the children.” This has brought much suffering to the Jew- house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into ish nation over the centuries. their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, Jesus told the Jews that when they saw the Roman and they shall be to me a people: army laying siege to Jerusalem that they should flee II Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of to the mountains. Those that obeyed were spared. The power, and of love, and of a sound mind. same is true in this our day. If the Jews will hear His Colossians 3:12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and voice and acknowledge Him as Lord of lords and King beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, of kings, they shall be saved. longsuffering. When the Scriptures speak of all Israel being saved, II Thessalonians 2:2 That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be it is speaking of spiritual Israel, which is God’s church. troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that There is no scriptural support to the teaching that in the day of Christ is at hand. the future, all Jews will live in Palestine, and that they will all be saved. Memory Verse: For who hath known the mind of the In spiritual Israel, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor of Christ.—I Corinthians 2:16. female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs accord- Aim: To show that salvation produces a Christlike ing to the promise” (Galatians 3:28, 29). God has not mind. Page 12 The Way of Truth INTRODUCTION the sinful world, but be transformed, be a true child of God, have a renewed mind and thus prove what is that HE MIND is an amazing organ in the human body! good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. God has The definition for mind is, in part, “the human a will for everyone, but only the redeemed are allowing T consciousness that originates in the brain and Him to accomplish it in their lives. manifested especially in thought, perception, emotion, LAW IN THEIR MIND—Hebrews 8:10—The law will, memory, and imagination; the collective conscious of the Old Covenant, in part, was written on stone; but and unconscious processes in a sentient organism that the Lord promised a new covenant, and it would be direct and influence mental and physical behavior; the written in their minds and in their hearts. God would faculty of thinking, reasoning, and applying knowl- be real to them, and they would be His people. edge.” A SPIRIT OF POWER—II Timothy 1:7—Fear It is through the mind that Satan makes many of brings torment! God gives power over all the power of his ungodly attacks. We hear the expression, that per- the enemy. The Holy Spirit sheds abroad in our hearts son’s mind is a cesspool of iniquity. Paul, in his letter a spirit of love and a sound mind. This sound mind to the Roman saints, said, “To be carnally minded is means more than just common sense; it means we have death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace” clear understanding of truth. We are able to think, (8:6). Paul, in this epistle, told them they should not speak, and act aright at all times. be “highminded” (11:20). Peter, in his second epistle, said, “This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto PUT ON—Colossians 3:12—Salvation is a gift you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of from God, but we have a work to do. We are to grow in remembrance” (3:1). Thank the Lord that through sal- grace, so Paul says put on, or live out, bowels of mer- vation we can have a pure mind. cies, kindness, humbleness of mind [God hates a proud look.], meekness, longsuffering. MEDITATIONS BE STEADFAST—II Thessalonians 2:2—Some THE MIND OF CHRIST—Philippians 2:5—The thought Christ would return in their lifetime, but Paul mind of Christ was to do all that He did for the glory informs them that a lot of things would take place before of the Father and also for the good of the family of man. that happened. Therefore, their faith was not to be He said He came to do the will of the Father, and He shaken, nor were they to be troubled because He did also said He came to seek and to save the lost. Shortly not come when they expected. There would be false before He returned to the Father, He said He had done prophets, false teachers who, in reality, would be oppos- the work the Father had given Him to do. This is the ing God and His truth. kind of mind Paul said we should have. CONCLUSION GOD THE ETERNAL WORD—Philippians Salvation does indeed produce a Christlike mind. 2:6—John informs us that the Word was made flesh Salvation delivers from a life of sin. It brings peace of and dwelt among us. Isaiah said that a virgin shall mind, peace to the troubled soul, and it makes you a bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel, which member of the family of God, the Church of the living means, “God with us.” Verse 7—He did not come to set God with your name written in the Lamb’s book of life up an earthly kingdom, He did not come seeking earthly and eternal life. fame, but He took upon Himself the form of a servant. FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION Behold what manner of love! 1. What does it mean to have the mind of Christ? HE HUMBLED HIMSELF—Philippians 2:8— Jesus had to lay aside the glory He had with the Father, 2. How does one obtain the mind of Christ? the worship of the heavenly angels, to be found in the 3. What kind of fruit will one bear who has the mind fashion as a man, but He did it not for Himself but for of Christ? us, even the death on the cross. Verse 9—Jesus paid 4. What did Paul mean when he said Christ did not our debt on Calvary, and He rose again on the third think it was robbery “to be equal with God”? day. God has indeed highly exalted Him, and given Him 5. When will every one confess “that Jesus Christ a name above every name, Worthy is the Lamb! is Lord”?  EVERY KNEE SHALL BOW—Philippians 2:10, 11—Multitudes refuse to recognize Him now, refuse to CHURCH OF GOD accept His offer of salvation, but the time is coming SUNDAY SCHOOL LITERATURE when every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. It will be too late For more than 60 years we have offered Sunday then as far as salvation is concerned—today is the day school material at a reasonable cost. We print quar- of salvation. terlies for Adults and Young People, Intermediates WE HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST—I Corin- thians 2:16—In verse 14 Paul says “the natural man and Juniors, as well as leaflets for Primary and receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God.” He goes Nursery children. Our next quarter begins in July on to say they are foolishness unto him, and they are and is entitled, “The Family of God at Work.” spiritually discerned. So it takes someone who is spiritually minded to be able to discern; in other words, Please write for your free sample: The Way of to have the mind of Christ. Truth, Attention: Eddingston Arch, P. O. Box 88, TRANSFORMED—Romans 12:2—Be not con- Hagerstown, MD 21741 U.S.A. formed to the world—Do not pattern your life after June 2012 Page 13 “Don’t you want to pretend we are at a wedding THE feast?” they asked. “Funerals are so sad.” “No,” said the other children. “We want to have a CHILDREN’S funeral. Let’s see who can cry the loudest.” The boys with the flutes began to play mournful CORNER music. They waited for the other children to cry and wail as if they were at a funeral. FOLLOWING EVERY WORD Instead of crying, however, the children began to argue. Some of them wanted to go back to the joyful A Bible Lesson by Sis. Rebecca Bland wedding celebration. Others wanted to act out the parts of mourners. Because of the arguing, no one had fun “What can we do?” I heard a little boy say recently. playing. We’ll call him Jason. Jason and his friends Jesus said that some people act like those children were waiting in my classroom for the in the marketplace who were not happy with anything. bus that would take them home at the They cannot make up their minds to obey the Word of end of the school day. Their bus would God. They complain about what the Bible asks us to not be called for fifteen minutes, and so Jason and his friends were trying do. to think of an interesting activity to When these complainers hear the Bible verse that occupy their time. says, “Rejoice in the Lord,” they say, “How can I rejoice? “I know!” said a little girl we will call I am not happy right now. Things are not going well Andrea. “Let’s play a game called ‘Don’t Move.’ for me. I cannot sing joyful music to praise the Lord.” If you move, you are out of the game. You can blink When they hear serious words from the Bible like your eyes, but that is all. I’ll be the watcher.” “Watch and pray that you enter not into temptation,” Suddenly the room grew very quiet. None of the they say, “I don’t feel like watching and praying. How children would say a word. One little boy stretched out can I be happy if I have to spend my time watching to on the carpet and lay perfectly still. In fact, he went to make sure I don’t do something wrong?” sleep. The Bible is full of wonderful words. Some of them After a few minutes, Andrea said, “Jason, you moved. are joyful words that remind us of the happiness Jesus You’re out of the game.” puts in our hearts when we love and serve Him. Some “You moved, too,” said Jason. “You moved your words in the Bible are serious words that remind us of head.” how dangerous it is to turn our backs on Jesus and “I had to move my head,” said Andrea. “I am the follow the path of disobedience and sin. ‘watcher.’ You made a sound, and so I had to move my Every word God has spoken to us in the Bible is head and look to see if you were moving.” important and necessary for our lives. You may not Before long the children were arguing so much they know all of the words in the Bible. Some of the verses had to stop their game. are difficult for children to read. But there are many verses that a child can easily understand. In fact, some The next afternoon, Andrea said, “Let’s play ‘Don’t of the verses in the Bible are written just for children. Move’ again!” Ephesians 6:1 says, “Children, obey your parents in the “No,” said the other children. “We don’t want to play Lord: for this is right.” that any more. Let’s play something different.” One of the boys had a bouncy ball. He took it from his pocket Even if you do not always feel like obeying your and began bouncing it on the carpet. For a few minutes, parents, do not be like the children in the marketplace the children enjoyed bouncing the ball to each other. who argued and complained about everything. Obey This game, too, was ended by an argument that arose your parents all of the time, not just when they ask you when one boy jumped in front of another to catch the to do things you don’t mind doing. ball. Another Bible verse says, “In every thing by prayer The dissatisfaction and arguments made me think and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be of Jesus’ parable about children playing games. In the made known unto God” (Philippians 4:6). The only dif- days when Jesus lived here on the earth, children often ficult word to understand in that verse is the word met their friends in the marketplace. While their par- “Supplication.” Supplication means, “asking humbly.” ents bought and sold fruits, vegetables, grains, oil, and Even children can bow humbly before God and tell Him spices, the children ran and played with their friends. their requests. They can give Him thanks, too. Jesus noticed that, in their play, the children often acted If you as a child will do these three things—obey out things they had seen the grownups doing. your parents, give God thanks, and have faith that God Jesus told about some children He had watched as will hear and answer your prayers, your life will be they played in the marketplace. “Let’s have a wedding pleasing in God’s sight. You will not be a complainer feast!” one child said. He and his friends began to play who does not want to follow God’s commands unless he lively music on their little wooden flutes. feels like it. But instead of acting out a wedding feast, some of Activity the other children shouted, “No! Let’s have a funeral!” Can you find another verse in the Bible that com- The little boy and his friends stopped playing their mands children to obey their parents? (Hint: It is in flutes. the book of Colossians.) Page 14 The Way of Truth Answer to Last Month’s Activity worshiper’s identification with the animal. Figuratively, In Acts 9:36-43, we read about Tabitha (also called he died to sin as that animal died. Paul teaches the “Dorcas”). Her talent was sewing, and she made cloth- same in Romans 6, where he shows that we are united ing for those who were in need. God is pleased when to Christ by faith and therefore His death on the cross we use our talents to help others.  was also our death to the old life of sin. This experience of repentance and acceptance of Christ is not properly a consecration. It is, rather, a death to the old life of sin and the beginning of a new life in which the person THE has something which he can consecrate to God. Further illustration is found in the fact that unclean QUESTION animals in the Old Testament could not be consecrated to God. They must be redeemed or destroyed. Read Leviticus 27:26-28. That is the condition of the sinner; BOX he is unclean and he cannot consecrate himself to God. The only thing possible for him to do is to be redeemed. Then he takes the place of the clean animal which can be consecrated to God, and that is why we read, “I Editor’s Note: The questions answered in this issue beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, were answered by the late Charles E. Brown, Editor of that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, the Gospel Trumpet, Anderson, Indiana, which is no acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service” longer published. These are from different issues pub- (Romans 12:1). This is the consecration for entire sanc- lished in the 1940’s. tification, which only a believer can make; and this consecration is never fully made until it is witnessed UESTION: Is it unscriptural to use instrumental by the sanctifying baptism of the Holy Spirit. Q music in the church [services]? QUESTION: What is the meaning of the following ANSWER: In the time of Christ, they used no quotation: “Thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither music in the synagogue service of the Jewish people. wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption” (Acts Therefore, when Christ attended services of the syna- 2:27)? gogue He would not find any instrumental music in use ANSWER: The word “hell” here is translated from there. But before we draw any conclusions from that the Greek word “hades” which here means the state of fact regarding our time, we must remember that the the dead in general, whether saved or lost. In this con- reason the Jews did not use instrumental music in the nection, the word has about the same meaning as our synagogue was because they reserved that music for English word, eternity. The meaning is, “Thou wilt not the Temple, and in the Temple services our Lord Jesus leave my soul in the state of the dead.” It was God’s Christ took part in services where they used instru- promise to raise Christ from the dead. mental music. If He did so, we think we have a right to do so also. QUESTION: Who was Melchizedek? QUESTION: Please explain Matthew 2:18. Who was ANSWER: Melchizedek was king of Jerusalem in Rachel who was weeping for her children? the days of Abraham. Abraham gave him tithes (see Genesis 14:18). In Psalm 110:4 it is said, “Thou art a ANSWER: In Jeremiah 31:15, the prophet viewed priest for ever after the order of Melchizedek.” Therefore the long line of Jewish captives who passed the tomb the writer of the book of Hebrews takes this fact as of Rachel weeping and sorrowing on their way into proof of the superiority of the priesthood of Christ over exile, suffering and death. Poetically, the prophet rep- the Jewish priesthood of His times. Read Hebrews 5:6, resents Rachel as weeping over her children who thus 10; 6:20; 7:1, 10, 11, 15, 17, 21. The Jewish priests of passed sadly by her tomb. Now the writer of the book New Testament times were obliged to be able to show of Matthew says that this same figure may be applied a priestly genealogy running back to Aaron. However, to describe the sadness which arose over the slaughter Melchizedek had no such genealogy. In this sense he of the innocent in Bethlehem under the cruel order of was without beginning of days or end of years. Christ Herod. was a priest like that. He had no place in the priestly QUESTION: Is consecration primarily a condition records of the Jewish people. He possessed an eternal priesthood. He was a priest forever after the order of to be met in obtaining salvation or sanctification? Can  a person refuse to be submitted or fully consecrated on Melchizedek. any point and yet receive salvation? If so, what part of man is it that is withheld at conversion and which he QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS consecrates at the time he seeks holiness? We have a book available which is a compilation ANSWER: This is a subject which cannot be properly of 1,228 questions and answers from the Question treated in a brief compass. Following are some hints to a solution of this problem. In the Old Testament an Box 1946-2001. Price is US$10 +US$3 shipping. animal was sacrificed and its blood was poured out at No international orders, please. the foot of the [brazen] altar. This was a type of the June 2012 Page 15 Jesus did not tell the disciples to pray until they received an impression or heard a voice in the air or saw a sign IS HEALING FOR ALL? telling them that it was God’s will to heal. No, indeed! By the late H. M. Riggle The command of the Lord was that they were to “heal the sick” in each city they entered. No exceptions were mentioned. XPERIENCE and observation have fully convinced Now notice the last great commission to God’s true me that one of the greatest hindrances to people’s ministry, a commission to last to the end of this Chris- E getting healed is the question in their mind, “Is it tian era: “They shall lay hands on the sick, and they God’s will to heal me?” As long as people entertain this shall recover” (Mark 16:15-18). This commission does question, the doubt that it suggests will hinder their not say, “They shall lay hands on some of the sick, and healing. they shall recover.” It says, “They shall lay hands on We ascertain the will of God by reading it. ... The the sick.” No wonder David, who was a prophet, Lord has made out a will to us. The New Testament is exclaimed triumphantly: “Bless the LORD, O my soul: that will in the Christian dispensation in which we live. and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless It was sealed and ratified by the blood of Christ, and the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: since His death it is effectual. Nothing is to be taken Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy from it or added to it; it is complete and contains the diseases” (Psalm 103:1-3). whole will of God for us. All we need to do is to read it. When Jesus delivered the daughter of the Syrophe- It is an utter waste of time for us to spend hours pray- nician woman, He called healing “the children’s bread” ing for impressions and voices in the air to tell us God’s (Mark 7:24-27). How many of the children can have will on any point already made clear in God’s Word. this bread? Let us read God’s will regarding the healing of our One of the cruelest things I ever witnessed occurred bodies. Christ’s personal ministry demonstrates the in the pioneer days of our work. My wife and I were will of God. He said, “I came to do thy will, O God.” conducting a meeting in a certain place. We stayed in Accordingly we read: “And Jesus went about all Galilee, a home in which there were six children. They were all teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel quite good looking except one boy. He was an extremely of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and homely lad of eleven years. We soon discovered that his all manner of disease among the people. And his fame parents had no love for him because he was so homely. went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him They would not permit him even to play with his broth- all sick people that were taken with divers diseases ers and sisters. His mother kept him busy all the time. and torments, and those which were possessed with At mealtime he was not permitted to sit at the table devils, and those which were lunatic, and those that with the other children. Not once while we were in that had the palsy; and he healed them” (Matthew 4:23, home was he permitted to eat with the rest of the fam- 24). ily. He saw what the rest ate, and when the meal was Mark the fact that Jesus did not heal “some of them” ended he was given the leavings, the scraps. You will and say to the rest, “It is not my will to heal you.” He all agree that this boy was treated in an extremely cruel healed all. Friend, He is just the same today. manner. After Jesus ascended to heaven and sent the Holy But, Brother, Sister, the treatment of this boy was Spirit, we read, “They brought forth the sick into the no more cruel or unreasonable than it would be for the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the Lord to invite some of His children to eat the bread of least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow healing and tell the rest, “It is not my will for you to some of them. There came also a multitude out of the have a bite.” cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, Let us now notice some of the objections to the and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and teaching that healing is for all people. Let us first con- they were healed every one” (Acts 5:15, 16). Not one sider the case of Job. God had a special purpose in Job’s sick person was turned away. trial of sickness; He wished to show how a person can In Matthew 8:1-15 we have recorded the wonderful stand true under the severest tests and remain patient. healing of a leper, the centurion’s servant, and Peter’s “Ye have heard of the patience of Job” (James 5:11). In wife’s mother. In verses 16, 17 we read: “When the even the end Job had more than in the beginning (Job 42:10- was come, they brought unto him many that were pos- 17). Job’s sufferings were temporary, for a special sessed with devils: and he cast out the spirits with his purpose, and did not change God’s will. Sometimes in word, and healed all that were sick: That it might be our own experience God permits us to pass through the fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias [Isaiah] the furnace of deep trials, adversities, disappointments, prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare manifold temptations, and afflictions to teach us lessons our sicknesses.” Jesus’ healing of “all that were sick” we could not get in any other way. But that does not fulfilled this prophecy. ... All for whom Christ died may change God’s will in the least. When the lesson has have all for which He died. been learned, God delivers us. Now let us examine Christ’s commission to His But what about Paul? He suffered terrible persecu- disciples. First, let us notice the commission to the tion and at Lystra was stoned and left for dead. As a twelve disciples: “He gave them power against unclean result he bore in his body “the marks of the Lord Jesus.” spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of But this was not common sickness and disease. There sickness and all manner of disease” (Matthew 10:1). is no proof that his “thorn in the flesh, the messenger Page 16 The Way of Truth of Satan to buffet him” was sickness. E. E. Byrum But the wise boldly said, “We don’t think so, always said that Paul’s thorn in the flesh was the spirit Lest for us and you there not enough be.” of severe persecution which he had to face wherever he went. Commentators differ widely as to what it really The foolish were told to buy for themselves, was; many do not believe it was sickness. While they were gone the Bridegroom then came; Paul advised Timothy at one time to take a little They that were ready went in to the marriage, wine for “his stomach’s sake” and some think he was The door was shut, all excuses were then lame. not healed. Timothy, like most evangelists who are Later came the foolish, who brashly demanded, subject daily to varied diets and rich food, had stomach “Lord, open to us, for we finally are found,” trouble. His healing was gradual and there is no proof that he was not fully restored to health. The same with But He answered and said, “I don’t know you, Trophimus whom Paul “left at Miletum sick” (II Timo- I came and called but you were not around.” thy 4:20). Paul, of course, prayed for him but his heal- Watch therefore, dear traveling Pilgrim, ing or restoration was gradual. A number of cases, both Be ready, for we are all headed home; in the Old and New Testament, can be pointed out And you know not the day nor the hour where the Lord definitely healed people but their full When the Son of man truly will come. restoration to health was gradual. Complete, instanta- neous, full recovery is called in the Bible a “miracle of Send me your poem or testimony. Write to: The Way healing.” of Truth, Young People’s Editor. P. O. Box 88, Hager- Let us believe that it is God’s will to heal all of His stown, MD 21741 U.S.A. children; and if we need healing, come to Him for our Following is an article about forgiveness which I share of “the children’s bread.”  received from a young person in Africa. I trust it will —First published March 25, 1944 be a blessing. May God bless and keep each of you. In His service, Dear Young People, Bro. Greg Tyler I greet you this June in the name of Jesus, so thankful for the privilege FORGIVENESS of sharing a few words. It is my hope that this col- By Bro. Eugene Ononuju, Nigeria umn has proven to be an Forgiveness is “an act of giving genuine pardon to encouragement to some- someone who has committed a wrong.” I will tell you one. As the songwriter that after natural and divine love and affection, forgive- said, “If I can help some- ness is the next greatest responsibility the human body as I pass along, then family has toward one another. The spirit and power my living will not be in consequent to forgiveness comes from God, and it was vain.” I have been exercis- manifested in Christ throughout His earthly ministry, ing myself in rehearsing the scriptures in rhythmic and even until today. This divine attribute was shown form. Here is an example: in the lives of the early saints beginning with Abraham. THE TEN VIRGINS They believed and practiced forgiveness as part of their (Matthew 25:1-13) Christian responsibilities. Then what about today? I would crave your indulgence to say that one of the The kingdom of heaven is like ten virgins, desires of Satan against man toward knowing God is Who burning lamps with them did take, through an unforgiving spirit. This act is described as And went forth to meet the true Bridegroom, a toxin that eats and wears on the fabric of the human For there was a great deal at stake. heart. Looking at forgiveness from the behavior of the old prophets, especially Moses, and also the life of the Five virgins were foolish, and five were wise, young man Joseph, I would put the challenge to us to What they did clearly told which was which; face this last dispensation with a sincere spirit of for- For the foolish took their lamps without oil, giveness. But the wise were prepared every stitch. When God was dealing with the Israelites, He While the Bridegroom tarried His great coming, showed compassion to them by forgiving their sins. The virgins all slept and were made numb. “But he, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity, and destroyed them not: yea, many a time turned he But at midnight a cry was made boldly, his anger away, and did not stir up all his wrath” (Psalm “The Bridegroom is here; time has come.” 78:38). An unforgiving spirit can bring the wrath of Then all the virgins rose from their slumber, despair and perpetual destruction upon man. God is And at once all their lamps they did trim; the Fountain Head of all knowledge and goodness, and Time had arrived and they all were excited, knowing the havocs there are in an unforgiving spirit, Now they could get to come in to Him. He paid for our forgiveness by Christ Jesus. By Him every believer obtains power and mercy of the Holy The foolish said to the wise, “Give us of your oil, Spirit to forgive one another, especially those of the For our lamps are gone out, don’t you see?” household of faith. June 2012 Page 17 Even today, Christ is still standing with God and God. The act of forgiveness can restore God’s glory upon forgiving men their trespasses, for God’s mind is filled your life by His answer to your prayers. with kindness, love, and tenderheartedness; and He The apostle Paul, in the book of Colossians, wrote, has commanded that you let this mind which is in Christ “Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if Jesus be also in you. This means that you should be any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ kindhearted towards one another, forgiving each one forgave you, so also do ye” (Colossians 3:13). How does his offenses. It is good for you as it is to the one whose God forgive offenses, and how do you forgive offenses? offenses are forgiven. You cannot fathom the amount The book of Ezekiel says to this effect, “If the wicked of joy you will have when you sincerely forgive. How restore the pledge, give again that he had robbed, walk much joy do you think you felt when Christ forgave you in the statutes of life, without committing iniquity; he of your sins? It is immeasurable. Christ has instructed shall surely live, he shall not die. None of his sins that us to forgive one another by saying to us, “And be ye he hath committed shall be mentioned unto him: he kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one hath done that which is lawful and right; he shall surely another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven live” (Ezekiel 33:15, 16). If God forgave your trespasses, you.” Forgiveness and the keeping of God’s commands none of them shall be remembered against you any bring lasting peace into the human heart. It can as well more; so now, you should forgive anyone with your whole foster peace among families, friends, nations, and the heart that has trespassed against you. Some people do world at large. It is noteworthy that you should make not seem to forgive from their hearts but only by their it of necessary importance to forgive one another in an lips. Some will forgive but will not forget. Soon they attempt to keeping the whole law of God. fall under the influence of an unforgiving spirit by their From human view and power, there can be certain actions. In all things, let us learn of Christ. Let His measures of offenses that may be impossible to forgive; mind be in us. however, there is no level of offense that man can forgive Jesus said, “So likewise shall my heavenly Father by his own power. This truth can be reconciled by the do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every saying, “To err is human, to forgive is divine.” If the one his brother their trespasses” (Matthew 18:35). Peter, Spirit of God that resurrected Christ dwells in you, He wanting to know more, asked, “Lord, how oft shall my will quicken you. You will indeed do well. You will find brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven the possible power and grace to forgive all measure of times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until trespasses. “But with God all things are possible” (Mat- seven times: but, Until seventy times seven” (Matthew thew 19:26). 18:21, 22). To evaluate this statement, it means four The apostle Paul said, “I can do all things through hundred and ninety times per day; moreover, Christ Christ which strengtheneth me.” I say again, if you actually knew how impracticable it is for someone to remember and rely on that same power of Christ who offend until that number of times per day. It could be cleansed your indelible sin, it will surely quicken you a choice of words which sincerely depict how perfectly also to forgive every sort of nefarious or intolerable you should forgive offenses. offenses. “But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, Speaking of His wish for man to forgive, Jesus told neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” this parable: “A certain master took account of his (Matthew 6:15). Christ decisively talked to His dis- servants. One day he called his servants for the account- ciples on the conditions and benefits surrounding ing. One of them owed him a huge sum of money. Because forgiveness. But I will constrain you to know that you this servant had no money to pay, his master com- are obliged to forgive each one his offenses in as much manded him to be put into prison until he paid. But as Christ did forgive you, and you became justified in the servant, kneeling at his master’s feet, asked for Him. pardon and was forgiven. When this servant went on Consequently, we live in a world where offenses his way and found a man who owed him some money, abound. In spite of that, I still contend that God’s he seized him by the neck and commanded him to be people do not sin, though anyone can fall to offenses put into prison, and refused to forgive him. But when when there is no close contact with God. In this case, the master heard about this servant’s wickedness, he Christ will not forgive because you failed to forgive commanded him to be fetched and be cast into prison those who trespassed against you. We can include in until he paid the last mint he owed.” this lesson the fact that forgiveness enhances answers Christ is warning you. He has allowed you to exam- to prayers. As Christ continued on this teaching, He ine your life by His Word today. Are you like the wicked said, “And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have servant? Has Christ your Master forgiven your sins ought against any: that your Father also which is in and still you have an unforgiving spirit toward others? heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do How would you escape the judgment? Do you know you not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven offended God, and yet He forgave you? forgive your trespasses” (Mark 11:25, 26). Dear Readers and Young People, God loves you. His Now the truth has come to hand. Can you apply it wish is that you will not perish with Satan in hell. No to your life, so as to rid of an unforgiving spirit and doubt God is revealing His kingdom to you by His Word. receive from God your answer to prayer? It could be Learn to forgive henceforth; and, “As ye have therefore that despair and hatred, which is the result of an received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him” unforgiving spirit, is hindering your expected prayer (Colossians 2:6). In forgiving someone, always add answer. Turn away from such. It cannot only ruin your humility to your faith; and, “Let this mind be in you, spiritual progress, but it can also separate you from which was also in Christ Jesus.”  Page 18 The Way of Truth WINB, Red Lion, Pennsylvania 9.320 on SW band RADIO LOG Friday, 9:30 P.M. Eastern Time, Saturday, 9:30 P.M. Eastern Time The Way of Truth Broadcast Listen live—Go to www.winb.com Listen to The Way of Truth Broadcast at any Alvin A. Craig, Radio Minister time on the world-wide web at All programs aired on Sundays unless other­wise noted www.wayoftruth.org Arkansas, No. Little Rock, KMTL 760, 10:30 A.M. THE BIBLE STANDARD BROADCAST 10,000 Watts—Heard in part of AR, MO, TN, MS and LA Listen live—Go to www.kmtl760am.com Church of God (Universal) James Arch, Pastor Illinois, Carmi, WROY 1460, 9:00 A.M. Radio Cayman 1:30 P.M. Sun. Grand Cayman 1,000 Watts—Heard in part of IL and IN *Listen to The Bible Standard Broadcast from anywhere in Kentucky, Cannonsburg, WOKT 1040, 1:30 P.M. the world via the internet. Go to www.radiocayman.gov.ky 2,500 Watts—Heard in part of KY, WV and OH and then click on Listen live 89.9. (Since it airs live, you Kentucky, Lancaster, WKYY 1280, 7:00 A.M. Sat. have to log on at the appropriate time.) 1,000 Watts—Heard in part of KY Kentucky, Prestonsburg, WDOC 1310, 7:30 A.M. 5,000 Watts—Heard in part of KY, WV and VA MISSIONARY PAGE Louisiana, Ball, KWDF 840, 9:00 A.M. 10,000 Watts—Heard in part of TX, AR, MS and LA Maryland, Denton, WKDI 840, 2:00 P.M. Sat. 2012 CONVENTION REPORT Heard in part of MD, DE, NJ and VA SANDY BAY, ROATAN, HONDURAS North Carolina, Mooresville, WHIP 1350, 6:30 A.M. Sat. 1,000 Watts—Heard in part of NC MARCH 27-APRIL 1 Listen live—tunein.com/radio/whip-1350-s29320/ By Sis. Diana Mann Oklahoma, Marlow, KFXI-FM 92.1, 7:00 A.M. 100,000 Watts—Heard in part of OK and TX THEME: “God’s Changeless Word for this Pennsylvania, Altoona, WFBG 1290, 9:00 A.M. Changing World” 5,000 Watts—Heard in part of PA and MD Scriptures: Malachi 3:6 and Hebrews 1:12 Pennsylvania, Martinsburg, WJSM 1110, 11:03 A.M. 1,000 Watts—Heard in part of PA Listen live—Go to www.wjsm.com RAISE GOD for His blessings upon us. We give Pennsylvania, Martinsburg, WJSM-FM 92.7, 11:03 A.M. & 7:30 P.M. God the glory and praise for allowing us to be in 1460 Watts—Heard in part of PA Listen live—Go to www.wjsm.com p convention again after two years. We are so grate- Virginia, Blacksburg, WKNV 890, 8:00 A.M. ful for all the brethren from overseas and for all of the 10,000 Watts—Heard in part of VA, WV and NC local congregations that supported this convention. Virginia, Lynchburg, WKPA 1390, 5:30 P.M. Sat. & 6:00 A.M. Sun. From the USA came Bro. Greg Tyler, Bro. Donnie 4,700 Watts—Heard in part of VA Shenberger, and Bro. Raymond Martin. From Grand Virginia, Norfolk, WYRM 1110, 11:30 A.M. Cayman came Bro. Duane Jeffries (originally from Sandy Bay), Sis. Carmilee Pearson, and Bro. Ray Hydes. 50,000 Watts—Heard in part of VA and NC Bro. Ray came on Friday to be with us. We missed Bro. Listen live—Go to www.j5.wyrmradio.com Alvin Craig in this convention, and we are sorry that Virginia, Roanoke, WKBA 1550, 5:30 P.M. Sat. & 6:00 A.M. Sun. he was not able to come this time. 10,000 Watts—Heard in part of VA and WV Our convention started on Tuesday, March Listen live—Go to www.wkbaradio.com 27—6:00 A.M. with the first prayer meeting held by Virginia, Smithfield, WKGM 940, 6:30 A.M. Bro. Alvares Johnson, pastor of the work in West End. 10,000 Watts—Heard in part of VA and NC He contrasted the prayer of the Pharisee to the prayer West Virginia, Hurricane, WOKU 1080, 1:30 P.M. of the publican. 1,000 Watts—Heard in part of WV, KY and OH At 10:00 A.M. our host pastor, Bro. Garry Jeffries, West Virginia, Summersville, WCWV 92.9, 8:30 A.M. brought the message from John 17:10-21, “The Power 50,000 Watts—Heard in part of VA and WV of a Unified Church.” He mentioned that we are a cho- INTERNATIONAL sen people (I Peter 2:1-4, 9). If we should see anything PHILIPPINES, Malaybalay, Valencia, Bukidnon, Mindanao done we need to be in unity. Using Acts 4:4, he also DXWS-105.3 FM, Saturdays at 1:30 P.M. & Sundays at 2:30 P.M. mentioned that the church has the backing of the PHILIPPINES, Baguio, Luzon, DZBS-1368 AM, Sunday 7:00 A.M. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit and cannot be defeated. Heard throughout central Luzon Hold on, Church, for victory is ahead! God promised to JAMAICA, MELLO-FM, 88.1, 88.3, 88.5, 7:00 A.M. Sundays be with us to the end of the world. That was a great Heard throughout Jamaica message, and many saints came for prayer. 2:30 P.M.—Bro. Leston Mann brought the message SHORTWAVE from Malachi 3:6, “I Am God, I Change Not.” He encour- WWCR, Nashville, Tennessee 4.840 on SW band aged us to anchor our faith upon the Word of God, Sunday, 7:30 A.M. Eastern Time—12:30 G.M.T. because when God makes a promise, He keeps that Listen live—Go to www.wwcr.com and click on transmitter #3 promise. Hebrews 1:10-12 tells us that He is a faithful June 2012 Page 19 God. He doesn’t promise us something today, and tomor- we are. Sinner Friend, you are presuming that God will row change His mine. We can rely on what He says. All give you more time and your life will be extended things around us change, and we sometimes change, indefinitely. The rich farmer presumed the same but but He has ever been God and He never changes. God heard, “Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required is perfect, so He doesn’t need to add or subtract any- of thee.” You are presuming God’s grace will be thing. What a beautiful message! A few came for extended indefinitely, but He says, “My Spirit shall not prayer. always strive with man.” One of the things I love about 6:30 P.M.—Bro. Greg Tyler was the speaker. He God is, He is faithful to every man. Two souls claimed used John 3:16 as his text, emphasizing eight powerful salvation. truths from this one verse. Someone has said that this Thursday, March 29 is the most powerful verse in the Bible. God, the great- 6:00 A.M.—Bro. Anquimar Soto held this prayer est Giver; so loved, the greatest motive; the world, the meeting. He emphasized Jesus’ prayer in the Garden, greatest need; that He gave, the greatest act; His only “Not my will, but thine be done.” begotten Son, the greatest gift; that whosoever, the 10:00 A.M.—Bro. Marthel Watler was the speaker greatest invitation; believeth in Him, offers the greatest for this service. He read from Deuteronomy 1:1-3. His opportunity; should not perish, promises the greatest title: “No Defection from the Truth.” At times in the deliverance; but have everlasting life, provides the army when things get bad, soldiers defect. It is so greatest joy. important to have a determination. It is so important God is a God of love, and He loves everyone upon to know that there is a quality that a child of God must the face of the earth. Bro. Greg quoted a few other have, and that he is to be faithful. scriptures and said there is a God in heaven and you 2:30 P.M.—Bro. Julio Robinson, pastor at Diamond don’t have to be lost. A wonderful message; a few came Rock, was the speaker for this service. His text: Joshua for prayer. 24:1-16. In the book of Joshua that we read, the second Wednesday, March 28 generation of the Israelites were admonished to make 6:00 A.M.—Bro. Marthel Watler, pastor at Flowers a significant decision, and by the same degree this Bay, held this prayer meeting. His text was Matthew morning, as he spoke to Joshua the Israelite, the Lord 9:9. is speaking to us today. He is giving us the same option: 10:00 A.M.—Bro. Raymond Martin from Shawsville, “Choose you this day whom ye will serve.” The Word of Virginia, was the speaker. He used Jeremiah 5:20-31 God is very clear. Matthew 6:24 teaches us that no man and Matthew 7:13-15, and entitled his thoughts, “The can serve two masters. Road to Success.” Be diligent and honest in soul and 6:30 P.M.—Each night the attendance grew. The mind for at the end of this life there is everlasting life building was packed with an estimated 300 souls. Bro. in heaven. People are missing out on the benefit, because Raymond Martin was the speaker and used Matthew they are trying to enjoy the pleasures of sin and serve 22:2-14. His topic: “The Final Call Has Been Made.” God at the same time. It cannot be done! There are Using this parable of the wedding feast, he spoke about many bends and bumps in the road, but we can be suc- six things that are offered by God: (1) pardon of sin; (2) cessful in serving the Lord. We don’t have to turn back. the favor of God being with you; (3) peace of conscience; I believe that God will help us to make it at the end of (4) all the promises of the gospel are for you when you the journey. accept Jesus into your heart; (5) the comfort of His 2:30 P.M.—We had Sis. Laurella Gordon, pastor of Spirit—what a blessing it is to have the Holy Spirit on the congregation in Coxen Hole, in this service, and she the inside; (6) a hope of eternal life. We have hope of favored us with one of her favorite songs, “Jesus Got a eternal life if we accept His invitation and serve the Hold of My Life and He Won’t Let Me Go.” It was a Lord. blessing to have her. She also made us know that she is not able to function in her office as a pastor due to Friday, March 30 her sickness, and that Sis. Ethlyn Soto will be the pas- 6:00 A.M.—Bro. Mike Bodden held this prayer tor now, and Sis. Anita Auld will be her assistant. Bro. meeting. I Thessalonians 5:16-18, “Pray without ceas- Aldrin McLaughlin was the speaker for this service. ing.” He spoke on the theme, “God’s Changeless Word for 10:00 A.M.—Bro. Donald Shenberger was the chair- this Changing World.” He mentioned people today are man. This was his second trip to the Island. Bro. Alva- not looking to live according to the true Word of God; res Johnson was the speaker of the morning. Text: rather, they are looking to sinning more or less every Matthew 22:37-40, “Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt day and still be a Christian. But the Apostle asked the love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all question over there in Romans 6, “What shall we say thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and then, shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? great commandment. And the second is like unto it, God forbid.” That is why people today don’t really want Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two to live a true holy life. Also the Apostle says, “Be ye commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” holy; for I am holy,” so for us to make heaven our home, His topic: “Two Great Commandments.” In these two we need to live a holy life. commandments hang everything else! To possess these 6:30 P.M.—Bro. Duane Jeffries was the speaker. two commandments, it’s going to take some compas- His text was Isaiah 55:6, 7, “Presuming Upon Time, sion. We realize Jesus was compassionate. Jesus cared; Upon Life, and Upon the Grace of God.” Time is com- Jesus loved; Jesus died for your sins, and He is still the mon to all of us, no matter who we are, or of what race same God of yesterday. A powerful message. Page 20 The Way of Truth 6:30 P.M.—Bro. Garry opened the service by pre- the life we want to live. We can choose the way we want senting certificates of appreciation to some of the faith- to go, but one day, one great and terrible day, each and ful brethren. Bro. Greg Tyler was the speaker, using every one will stand before a just God. What a heart John 1:1-5,11-16. Title: “What the Grace of God Can searching message! Many came for prayer. Do for You.” Grace is found over 170 times in the Bible, Sunday, April 1 the first time mentioned is when Noah found grace in 6:00 A.M.—Bro. Julio Robinson was in charge of the eyes of the Lord. He preached about several kinds this prayer meeting. He used Acts 6:1-7, “Witnesses for of grace in the Bible. Saving grace: No one could be Christ.” saved without the grace of God. If you come to God 10:00 A.M.—Bro. Oliver Fisher was the speaker. thinking you deserve to be saved, you cannot be saved. His text was I Corinthians 3:10-17. His topic: “The You must come with a repentant heart, a broken and Church’s One Foundation.” Many people in the religious a contrite spirit and repent of your sins. Keeping grace: world are changing. Many preachers have changed to Romans 5:1, 2 offers us grace to stand. Sustaining grace: please humanity. Some think that since we’re in a When all seems dark before us. Forgiving grace which modern world, so the gospel should be modern. But I empowers an individual to let malice go. Humiliating tell you that the Church of God is the old-time religion, grace to come back humbly from failure. Testifying grace and if you want to be a part of God’s church, you have to boldly stand up for Jesus in an untoward generation. to love the old-time religion. Jesus Christ has set the Dying grace to provide us with victory when our life foundation for the Church of God. Many came seeking comes to an end. help from God at the altar of prayer. Saturday, March 31 A baptism was held after this service. 6:00 A.M..—Bro. Barney Hydes held this prayer 2:30 P.M.—We were blessed with a service of testi- meeting. He used Elijah’s prayer in I Kings 18. monies and songs. 10:00 A.M.—This was our healing service. Bro. 6:30 P.M.—The building was overflowing with an Raymond Martin was the speaker. Psalm 103:1-5 was estimated 500 souls. Bro. Greg Tyler was the speaker. his text. Title: “Forget Not His Benefits.” God is the From Ephesians 2:11-15, he chose as a title of his mes- Healer of all nations. The Bible says glorify God in your sage, “Breaking Down the Wall.” Walls are separations. body and in your spirit; and when we have a sickness, Jesus came to break down the middle wall of partition He wants us to come to Him. Mark 5:25 shows the between the Jews and the Gentiles and make one. I woman with the issue of blood, by her faith she was was thinking as we heard the gospel messages preached made whole. Put your trust in Him—not in the preacher, during the course of this week, why more individuals not in the teacher—but in Him! I am trying to inspire would not come to Christ, and I came to the conclusion your faith. Very inspiring message. Many came forward that Satan has been successful in putting a wall to receive their healing. We then had an ordination of between their souls and God. But, thank God, Christ some brethren. This was a wonderful service. came to break down that wall between men and God. No afternoon service He breaks down the wall of sin, the wall of bondage, 6:30 P.M.—Bro. Duane Jeffries was the speaker. the wall of burden, the wall of bitterness, the wall of His text was II Corinthians 5:10, 11. Title: “There Is a empty profession. He will destroy every and any wall Great Day Coming.” Unsaved Friend and professor separating you from God. alike, have you been giving a thought where you shall Thank God for victory! We had some 30-40 souls be on that great day? There are many who go on living who responded in this service, and many of them came  in a life of sin, giving no thought of the consequence, weeping to give their hearts to the Lord. not caring that they are gambling away their one Below is a picture of the ministers present for the eternity-bound soul. God gave us a free will to choose 2012 Honduras Convention

June 2012 Page 21 Church of God (Universal), Inc. Non-Profit Organization The Way of Truth U. S. POSTAGE PAID P. O. Box 88 Mercersburg, PA Hagerstown, MD 21741–0088 U.S.A. Permit No. 15

COMING MEETINGS REVIVAL SERVICES Miami, Florida 2012 INTERNATIONAL July 10-15, 2012, Lord willing CHURCH OF GOD CONVENTION Sis. Margerie Allen, Pastor For more information call: (305) 685-5707 12819 Point Salem Rd.  Hagerstown, Maryland U.S.A. Jamaica Youth Revival July 3-8, 2012, Lord willing Axe-and-Adze, Hanover Bro. Alvin A. Craig, Host Pastor July 24-29, 2012, Lord willing  Bro. Rupert Shippy, Pastor 2012 CAYMAN CONVENTION  Grants Mountain, Jamaica 83-A Walkers Rd. August 21-26, 2012, Lord willing George Town, Grand Cayman Sis. Linette Jutan, Pastor November 20-25, 2012, Lord willing Bro. James Arch, Host Pastor Please pray for these services!

Make your plans to attend the 2012 International Church of God convention in Hagerstown, Maryland, from July 3 through July 8. Four services daily. Meals and lodging on free-will offering basis. Call now and make your reservation! (301) 739-2980 or (301) 733-0093