THE NEXT CHURCH?" Lynn Parker Tired of the Same Cereal Every Day

Home , Rubel Shelly

Vol. 8, No. 10 October 1997 l,J.AH„,„IL-HUILmiJ ARE YOU READY FOR "THE NEXT CHURCH?" Lynn Parker Tired of the same cereal every day. It is this vision that clamors for morning? There are plenty of a lowering of the sword, and a shift choices on grocery store "Ilike it; therefore, it in emphasis. In this dream of the shelves. Feeling adventuresome? must be sweet in God's spiritual mavericks, no longer would Disregard those shampoo directions, you be concerned with "trivial mat "Lather, rinse, repeat," andjust soap sight as well" is the ters" like instrumental music in wor your hair one time. You rebel, you! If mistake ofmen, past ship, women teachers and preachers, you don't like your American-made the day and frequency of partaking car, you can always opt for a sporty andpresent. of the Lord's supper, elements of model with a foreign heritage. Tired worship, the purpose or even the of"two songs and a prayer?" Do you necessity of baptism, the distinctive long for religious excitement? I nature of the church, ascertaining mean, do you ever feel like "book, observers of religious error. But as I Bible authority, or a myriad of other chapter, and verse" is too archaic, read the article, I began to have that topics that have been outgrown by too monotonous, entirely too tame? "sinking feeling^ as it occurred to me liberated church-goers. Now, you Eureka! Like the grizzled prospector that "The Next Church" might be have arrived in the land of the who finds the mother-lode, you are prophetic of where many congrega "social church." Here, the emphasis living in an age of the religious tions ofthe Lord's church will be in a squarely shifts from doctrinal dis smorgasbord! decade or so. Many are headed in tinction to self-gratification. "I like The Atlantic Monthly carried that direction, and some are already it; therefore, it must be sweet in an article under the title, "The Next there. God's sight as well" is the mistake of Church," which documents and Leaving the "ancient landmarks" men, past and present. describes the " megachurch" phe (Prov. 22:28) is the express goal of "In those days there was no king nomena sweeping the nation. It is many "change agents" whose vision in Israel: every man did that which marked by large congregations of nobility and heroism includes was right in his own eyes" (Judges (thousands of members in number) leading the poor ol' uneducated 21:25). "For my thoughts are not that are seeking to attract the Christian from the dark confines of your thoughts, neither are your ways "unchurched," particularly those of narrow-minded religious bigotry, my ways, saith the LORD. For as the the 40 years and under group who down the yellow-bricked road of heavens are higher than the earth, so are tired ofthe main stream denomi sweeping change to a bright, new, are my ways higher than your ways, national affiliation. Additionally, shining community where the and my thoughts than your these "megachurches" appeal to the church of Christ is just one of many thoughts" (Isaiah 55:8-9). masses because they: 1) emphasize denominations - buildings swelling Our feature article informs us unity amidst diversity in doctrine, 2) with religiously diverse crowds, that, "Even the most stubbornly tra offer "exciting" worship services that everybody holding hands with his ditional churches, if they have any resemble Broadway productions, 3) denominational neighbor. This liber critical mass at all, are putting chil provide a "ininistry" to every family al movement envisions a place and dren's education, child care, and member (every agenda is answered) time where doctrine is insignificant, even (and especially) the secular. unity at all costs is paramount, and (Continued on page 4) Now, this does not surprise astute perpetual smiles are the order of the "The Next Church"... 2/74 Seek The Old Paths - October 1997

fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them" (Eph. 5:11). We are not to be partakers with them in their deeds. We are to have NO fel The Bible Versus lowship with them. "No" fellowship does not mean "some" fellowship or "limited" fellowship. And, it is sim ply not enough to have no fellowship Garland M. Robinson with them, this verse also demands that we actively oppose them. Our mission is to "reprove" them. The word reprove means to: convict, Change agents seek to 1984, p. 132). refute, show someone his fault or destroy the Biblical limits error, show something up for what it of fellowship and openly "Brothers and sisters, we is, prove guilty, condemn, to bring to embrace those who are not chil do not have to live in light, to expose, to reprehend sever- dren of God. Notice the following estrangement and isolation ly, chide, admonish. We cannot be comments from some who are des from those who honestly dif quiet when error is involved! To perately seeking to change from fer with us inside or outside refuse to expose error and instead, God's Way. our fellowship. Wedon't have embrace it and extend an open hand to agree with them on every of fellowship to it and those promot "/ agree with the brother point nor do we have to con ing it, is complete apostasy from the who wrote that disagree vince them to agree with us "one faith." Those not faithful to the ments over instruments on every issue. All we have to doctrine of Christ are enemies of should not prevent us from do is look to our left, to those Christ (cf. Phil. 3:18). Shall we sup enjoying a common Lord's who have felt the sting ofour port the enemy of Christ? No, a table. I can commune any rejection, and everywhere we thousands time no! It matters not where ifit is in honor ofour see one who has committed whether the evil doer is an erring Lord and in a matter fitting his or her heart and life to Christian or one who has never with His will. Maybe ifall of the Lordship ofJesus Christ obeyed the gospel, the end result is us who are divided over the we may rejoice that we have the same. instrument communed found a brother or sister. "Now I beseech you, brethren, together more we would see And we may extend to that mark them which cause divisions the importance ofour unity child of God the same invit and offences contrary to the doctrine and work "harder at main ing hand ofgrace and accep which ye have learned; and avoid taining it." (Calvin Warpu- tance which we ourselves them" (Rom. 16:17). This verse com la, A Rejoinder to Letters in have received from the Lord mands that we "mark" those who Response to 'Can We Have Jesus." (Mark Henderson, teach contrary to sound doctrine. Unity With the Christian People Need the Unity-Com The word mark means: to look at, Church'?" One Body, Fall, mitted Church, 1997 ACU observe, contemplate, fix one's eyes 1993,10:4, p.19). Lectures). upon, direct one's attention to, be concerned about, watch out for, be "Do I consider 'our broth Promise Keepers rallys as well careful. The reason we focus our erhood' (non-instrumental as March for Jesus are two denom attention upon these individuals is Churches of Christ) a inational programs which provide a that we may "avoid" them so as to denomination? Yes. ...Well, means for the "Change Agents" to have no fellowship with them in do you embrace denomina- spread their doctrine and openly fel their evil deeds. Such persons tionalism? No. Oh no. I lowship those in denominationalism. "...serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, embrace Jesus. And brothers Faithful Christians cannot engage in but their own belly; and by good and sisters in Jesus scattered either of these activities and meet words and fair speeches deceive the throughout most denomina with God's approval. hearts of the simple" (Rom. 16:18). tions" (Lynn Anderson, The Bible does not allow fellow By no stretch of the imagination "Big, Sick, Denomination: ship with those who are not Chris could we support those who teach Revisited," Wineskins, Vol. tians or even those who have left contrary to sound doctrine and cause 2,No.lO,p.36). their "first love." Notice these pas division in the Lord's body (whether sages: they were members of the Lord's "There are sincere, "Let no man deceive you with church or not). No faithful Christian, knowledgeable, and devout vain words: for because of these preacher, eldership or congregation, Christians scattered among things cometh the wrath ofGod upon can remain silent and lend support the various denominations" the children of disobedience. Be not to those who teach and practice (Rubel Shelly, I Just ye therefore partakers with things contrary to the doctrine of Want to be a Christian, them" (Eph. 5:6-7). "And have no Christ. God counts those who do so October 1997 - Seek The Old Paths 3/75 just as guilty as those who commit Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw unto you, and ye shall be my sons such evil deeds themselves (2 John yourselves from every brother and daughters, saith the Lord 11). that walketh disorderly, and not Almighty" (2 Cor. 6:14-18). The "But I say, that the things which after the tradition which he received words "unequally yoked together" the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to of us" (2 Thess. 3:6). The word are from the same word in the devils, and not to God: and I would "walketh" has to do with one's Greek. The word means "to have fel not that ye should have fellowship behavior or conduct. The word "dis lowship with one who is not an with devils. Ye cannot drink the cup orderly" means "out of ranks (often equal." Those who have never ofthe Lord, and the cup ofdevils: ye so of soldiers), deviating from the obeyed the gospel or who have cannot be partakers of the Lord's prescribed order or rule." This is strayed from the "old paths" of "the table, and of the table of devils" (1 speaking particularly of withdraw way," are not our equal. They do not Cor. 10:20-21). The Lord's people ing fellowship from a fellow-member stand in the right and proper rela cannot hold onto God with one hand of a local congregation of which we tionship with God. They are not our and those who are in league with the are also members. However, its faithful brethren in the Lord. Those devil with the other. No matter how application (in principle) would also who have strayed away are as the "sweet spirited" some seem, no mat include that we must not extend fel prodigal that must return home ter how sincere they appear, when lowship to all who "walk disorderly," (Luke 15:17-20) or Simon that had to they are not in fellowship with God even though such persons are not repent and pray (Acts 8:22). Until (by obeying his commands), then members of the local congregation of they do, the faithful cannot fellow neither can we fellowship them lest which we are members. To withdraw ship them. we be out of fellowship with God. fellowship means that we must not When anyone does not "walk in the associate with one so as to aid, com light" (live and abide in the truth), fort, support, condone or assist him he does not have fellowship with in his teaching and/or practice. God (1 John 1:7). How can we fellow When one's conduct is contrary to ship those whom God does not fel the inspired, established "tradition" Contributors lowship? We cannot! of the apostles, we must not help or Virginia P. Sherman $5 "Whosoever transgresseth, and aid them in their beliefand practice. abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, "And if any man obey not our M/M Virgil Cretsinger $25 hath not God. He that abideth in the word by this epistle, note that man, Mrs. W. H. Dell $20 doctrine of Christ, he hath both the and have no company with him, Donald R. McGuyer $20 Father and the Son. If there come that he may be ashamed" (2 Thess. any unto you, and bring not this doc 3:14). The words "company with" Lena L. Clark $25 trine, receive him not into your here means: to mix up together, to Mrs. J. C. Freeman $5 house, neither bid him God speed: keep company with, be intimate Jo Ella Herren $15 For he that biddeth him God speed is with. There is simply no scriptural Wynema A. Chenault $25 partaker of his evil deeds" (2 John (Biblically justified) way to have 1:9-11). Those who do not hold to the company with such persons so as to Louise Welch $25 doctrine of Christ are not to be aid and support those who do not fol Doyle Strawn $4 "received." The word receive means low the Lord's Way. One of the pur Donald R. Shiflett $100 to "associate one's selfas companion, poses of our refusing to "company Howard Stark $10 attendant, to receive a person, give with" them is that such would cause him access to one's self." We are them to be ashamed of their teach Victor Eskew $50 commanded to not bid them God ing and conduct and move them to Martha M. Lawson $10 speed. We are not to do anything repentance. Charles Verkist $30 that would give such persons com "Be ye not unequally yoked Danville Church ofChrist, fort or aid that would assist them in together with unbelievers: for their deed. We cannot lend help to or what fellowship hath righteousness Biggersville, MS $150 send them along their way with our with unrighteousness? and what Robert and Mary Milam $25 blessing. We cannot wish them well communion hath light with dark LenardHogan $50 or pray for their success. We must ness? And what concord hath Christ not allow them to believe we are in with Belial? or what part hath he Mr. & Mrs. Roy Bearden $5 fellowship with them, but on the that bclieveth with an infidel? And Dan Fields $20 contray, we must oppose them (Eph. what agreement hath the temple of James Horton $40 5:11). If we do anything that aids God with idols? for ye are the temple William L. Schwegler $50 them in their evil work, we are ofthe living God; as God hath said, I counted just as guilty as if we had will dwell in them, and walk in Anonymous $30 done the evil ourself. This is guilt by them; and I will be their God, and Lewis Cantril $16 association. When we associate with they shall be my people. Wherefore Elysabeth Hamilton $10 those guilty of false doctrine, we are come out from among them, and M/M Merle Meredith $30 counted guilty offalse doctrine. be ye separate, saith the Lord, and "Now we command you, touch not the unclean thing; and I Earl Case (in memory of brethren, in the name of our Lord will receive you, And will be a Father Geraldine Burks) $75 4/76 Seek The Old Paths - October 1997

"The Next Church"... evening service. And, "Sports are a (Continued from page I) big deal at Las Colinas. The church Elders andpreachers, organizes a thirty-eight-team bas teen activities up there with music renew your vigilance ketball league, starting with chil as essential ingredients to attract dren of both sexes in grades one Boomer families...."1 and inform the church. through six. It has sponsored a base This new religious scene is tai ball clinic led by the new York Yan lor-made for the change-agent and kees. To anticipate the objections of his disciples. They view the church just about every male Texan, ser of Christ, in the main, as a group of dispensing the secular sacrament."8 vices conclude in time for watching people who "have become fixed in Here they offer parenting seminars, parties for the Dallas Cowboys foot the tracks of dogmatism," "twisted alcohol and drug recovery meetings, ball games - which are on view on a and misapplied Scriptures to sup a class for "homebuilders, something big screen outside the sanctuary for port our contentions," and "limited called 'Bunko Night,' a baseball church attendees to take in as part the liberties of others."2 Randy league, drama, and dance, and of their post-worship fellowship. For Mayeux, former preacher for the "seven days a week of kid-oriented those for whom Sundays are truly Preston Road Church of Christ activity - a lot of it."9 The music in sacred, Las Colinas offers the Satur in Dallas, informed listeners of the these services is performed by a day-night service."16 changes on the horizon when he "sextet of male and female Here, women can be in leader spoke in 1989 of "receiving letters singers...a twelve-piece orchestra of ship roles. The "Church OfThe Open from two of our women," one of saxophones, synthesizers, guitars Door" engages in 40 minutes of sus which complained, "I am so sick and and drums" and all the songs were tained singing at a service in which tired of being able to do nothing." new-composed since 1990, and most the "outstanding lead vocalist car Further, Mayeux predicted that doc importantly, "all of them were of ried the energy of her praise to the trinal differences would "increase club quality."'0 limits of modesty."17 Of course, instead of decrease" and that "By taking on roles as various as Randy Mayeux chided the Lord's "because our people are reading those of the Welcome Wagon, the church some seven years ago for [Charles] Swindoll's books and lis USO, the Rotary, the quilting bee, intolerance, and refers to profession tening to Swindoll's messages, they the book club, the coffee shop, and al singer Amy Grant, an artist in are going to end up thinking more school, they have become much more the field of (as Mayeux calls it) "con and more liked SwindoU."3 than traditional churches that many temporary Christian music." Rubel Shelly pleads, "We must Americans grew up in and have long Mayeux said, "...Amy Grant who find a way to forego the rancor and since lost."" grew up in a church of Christ. And quarreling about our denomination A leader of this "next church" we didn't have a way to let her be in al traditions."4 Max Lucado trum provides his strategy: "We give them the church of Christ, and so we've pets that "there are fresh winds in what they want."12 The church ser lost her...I don't want to keep losing the church of Christ denomination" vices here are "multi-media the people that God raises up in this and he recently received an award affairs."13 Testimonials, dramatic fellowship, whose roots are deep and from Southern Baptists.' actors, a message from the "pastor," who understand us and then drive Now, if you sympathize with and communion services on "special them away because there's no outlet Cecil Hook, Randy Mayeux, rather than regular occasions" for their gift."18He told the same Rubel Shelly, Max Lucado and round-out these assemblies. And meeting of ministers (hosted by others of their stripe in this, you can while the author of this magazine Lubbock Christian College ), "In always head off in search of "The report centers in on this change one youth group represented by Next Church" - a place where there that's rolling through the denomina somebody sitting in this section, is "no biblical-gobble-dy-gook. No tional world, you will sadly note that there is a woman, a teenager in that prayerly rote. No fire, no brim- the church of Christ figured into the youth group that wants to be able to stone...no dreary eighteeenth-centu- article: "I met the young pastor of a preach in some fashion to men and ry hymns. No forced solemnity. No Church of Christ congregation who women when she gets older. You Sunday finery. No collection plates."8 was lamenting that his denomina want to kick her out?...The bottom These "megachurches" are to be tion still forbids the use ofany musi line is that in the 1990s, diversity is the rave of the near and distant cal instruments in its worship ser the only game in town, folks."19 future as they "diversify almost infi vices."14 Some may charge me with being nitely in order to develop new 'prod This is not the picture of a an alarmist but I say as kindly as I uct lines' that meet the congrega church "just for people who are can, "Where have you been? Wake tion's needs..."7 One of these "shop already Christian" but rather a up and see the handwriting on the ping-mall churches" houses some "church ofoptions" with a "chocolate, wall!" The drift toward denomina- 14,000 people at four services each vanilla, and strawberry" "worship tionalism, starting decades ago, has weekend. Inside, "an orchestra menu."15 turned into a tidal wave, and has not played upbeat soft rock...the dress In Irving, Texas, the "Fellowship yet run its course. was California casual. Children Of Las Colinas" uses direct-mailings Several years ago, the Cahaba scurried everywhere. A cappuccino to "target" zip codes with advertise Valley church of Christ in Birm- cart with parasol stood to one side, ments of a well-received Saturday ingham, Alabama, through its October 1997 - Seek The Old Paths 5/77 elders, sent a letter to the member socials ills, whether they be "Episco more "politically correct." Too, do ship which stated: pal, Baptist, or church of Christ." you see how that in less than a The candlestick is surely gone out at decade religious error has worked "For the year 1990, dur Cahaba Valley!21 like a gangrene to spread in these ing Sunday morning assem The Southern Hills church of congregations and engulf them com bly for worship, we will con Christ in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in a pletely? tinue to ask that men be in bulletin article published some Chris Seay, 24 year-old "pas the leadership role. This is seven years ago, set forth "A South tor" of the 1,200 member Universi because our need as a group ern Hills Hermeneutic For The 90s" ty Baptist Church in Waco, to respect the fact that there in which Gary Tandy lists, as an Texas touts the unique nature ofhis are differences of opinion implication of their "hermeneutic," congregation: He said it offered the and conviction...We simply that Southern Hills will provide best rock music by the best rock need time to allow our "more roles for women, singles, and musicians in Waco. He talked about church to continue to think children in worship and recognize their "sound" - "a cross between and pray about the role of ministry opportunities in cultural Pearl Jam and Hootie and the Blow- women at CV as change concerns," but cautions that "...we fish." Seay says of his worship ser comes...For the years 1991- are a people of many viewpoints. We vices, "We don't know what's going 1994, we, the elders, will ini have a responsibility to love, respect, to happen next, or we make it seem tiate gradual change in the and defend our brother's and sister's like we don't know what's going to Sunday morning worship right to their viewpoints..." and happen next."24 That couldn't happen assembly for worship. Each "...we all have difficulty with change. in churches of Christ, or could it? year we will increase the It is important to proceed at a sensi Rubel Shelly and Randy Harris freedom ofwomen to partici tive pace."22 are quoted in their book, The Second pate in worship...We will Today, a phone call reveals that Incarnation, as demanding that the continue this process until it is no longer the Southern Hills "tired, uninspiring event called wor by 1994, women are given church of Christ but rather the ship...must give way to an exhilarat freedom to volunteer, if they "Southern Hills Fellowship Of ing experience ofGod," and they fur so choose, to participate in Christ," where the "critical issues of ther claim that worship assemblies the activities that are cur worship are no longer place, time, in the Lord's church are "boring" and rently restricted to the men nor ritual..." and worship assemblies "irrelevant."25 Shelly and Harris during the worship assem are "...an experience of deliberate want "spontaneity" and "raucous cel bly."20 focus on God for the purpose of an ebration."26 encounter with him..." and "...rele The "Next Church," is a "new, Those "activities" to be opened to vant to the unsaved and unchurched large, independent church" that is women are further specified as community." It is here that "South enjoying more success than mainline "Reading Scripture, Serving Com ern Hills women participate in lead denominations in living with munion, Leading Prayer, Presiding ership and support roles of public "intense divisions in their flock over At Table, Speaking To The Assembly worship, communion, Bible studies, abortion and homosexuality."27 in Sermon, Leading Singing." Now, small groups, and other functions . Michael Foss, pastor of Prince of that was years ago, and maybe necessary to effect the church's mis Peace Lutheran Church in Min Cahaba Valley church of Christ has sion."23 neapolis is labeled "fiercely agnos changed, you might think. You Katie Hayes, minister for "Caha tic," and states, "I'm convinced you would be absolutely right. A quick ba Valley Church of Christ—an Ecu can be a Christian on either side of phone call to Cahaba Valley on menical Church," was offended at those [homosexuality and abortion - March 6,1997, was answered by one the thought of being lumped in with L.P.] issues." Foss goes on to state, of the ministers, Katie Hayes, who the megachurch mentality since "One of the tragedies of the culture along with her husband, Lance they had decreased in number to is the tendency to draw lines where Pape, share the ministerial duties at about 100 members because they they needn't be drawn. Christians their self-styled "ecumenical had stepped out of the mainstream. ought to quit throwing rocks at church." Ms. Hayes was frank in her But then, by her own admission she Christians. We don't have to agree on assessment that Cahaba Valley pictured Cahaba Valley as a place everything. And, these are side church of Christ is a denomination, for those who had grown "tired ofthe issues [emphasis mine—L.P.]. What and she further stated that they rigors of legalism" and "tired of reli we're about is spiritual renewal."28 accept into "full fellowship" those gion in the U.S.," and were looking Hmmm, now where have we heard adults who have not been immersed. for religion that was "real" (whatev that before? How long before those Hayes stated that the issues divid er that means-L.P.) rather than more liberal than the "mainstream" ing churches of Christ were very "fake." Well dear reader, the typical at Cahaba Valley and Southern "petty and small" and that attention "megachurch" may be larger in num Hills demand that unity-in-diversity needs to be given by Christians to ber than the Cahaba Valley/South embrace abortion and homosexuali problems like hunger, poverty, ern Hills type, but the mindset is ty? The mindset of the religious left racism, and illiteracy —without quite similar, if not identical: de- in the church, marked by disdain for regard to the background of other emphasize doctrine, practice unity- law and rule, and tolerance for only "Christians" helping to correct these in-diversity, make worship services those who are tolerant of every doc- 6/78 Seek The Old Paths - October 1997 trine, has no end. It, like an oil spill, Why not? Why not go for the America says, "Give them what t ley encompasses and slimes more and biggest church that has the most to want." The same mindset has b;en more until nothing is wrong, and offer? After all, brethren are doing stewing for a while in Shelly, every matter is a gray area of per this daily when they by-pass small Mayeux, Lucado and others. sonal liberty and opinion. sound congregations for large liberal Be ready. Arm your children. Randy Mayeux went on from ones that have more offerings to Elders and preachers, renew your his heretical teachings in 1989 to appease the kids and a less demand vigilance and inform the church. leave the Preston Road church of ing message from the pulpit and Don't think it cannot happen where Christ. His "main aim was to start a leadership. This, we are told, is the you live. Wake up, and smell nhe new church," and his model would future of religion in America. People cappuccino be the "Willow Creek Community will "drive right by small churches in 5784 Sapp Rd. Church in South Barrington, 111., their neighborhood to get to attend a Conroe,TX 77X04 which is considered a model for larger one that offers more in the mega-churches." It uses the way of services or programs...It's ENDNOTES •Charles Trueheart, 'The Next Church.' All intic megachurch type approach to wor Wal-Mart versus the corner grocery. Monthly, August, 1996, p 16 ship with a band and contemporary It ain't a fair fight."31 ' Cecil Hook, Free In Christ, p.8. 3 Rundy Mayeux in a speech at Lubbock, Texas in 1989, to conference of Ministers music. Mayeux lauds, "this is a No, I do not consider myself to hosted by LubbockChristian College. church that wants to have fun—it's be a prophet, but then history is an *Rubel Shelly, as quoted by Curtis Cotes in his wok. The Second Incarnation - Pattern For Apostaty (Memphis, substantive, but fun."29 unusually fine prognosticator of TN: Cntes Publications, 19921p.41. 'As published in the Tulsa World, March 12, .989, Nine years ago, the Ft. Worth trends. The liberals among us may p.C.26, Lucado reforred to a the lord's church as u denor lina- Star Telegram ran a feature article swell in number. They are doing this lion. The Son Antonio Express-News, Sept. 17, 1996 pub lished an article under the headline, 'Texas Baptists Estcnd on the Richland Hills Church of in many instances. But then, I Award To SA. Pastor-Author Lucado." Lucado received the Christ, entitled, "Church mission is remember Matthew 7:13-14, the few Texas Baptist CommunicationsAward' and Baptist P istor Buckner Fanning commented that Lucado and he lave meeting needs of hurt people." Bill and the many, the saved and the exchanged pulpits over the last two years. Vincent, Richland Hills member, is damned. 'Next Church, p.37 ' Next Church, p 38 quoted as saying, This "religious cafeteria" concept 'Next Church, p.39 has a charm and appeal, especially 'AfotCnurcA,p.39 "AferlCnurcA,p.39 "The philosophy of the to the young folks but then both the "Next Church, p.40 " Next Church, p.40 church has changed - the blind leaders and their followers can " Next Church, p.42 church is more interested in find their way into the ditch (Matt. "Next Church, p.44 "Next Church, p.47 meeting the needs of the 15:14). "Next Church, p.47 people. It used to be the type The presumptuous and self- "Next Church, p.50 " Randy Mayeux, Lubbock speech. of church that preached hell, willed souls in the church may revel " Randy Mayeux, Lubbock Bpcech. in their ecumenical stance that is * Undated letter from Riders to members of Ca inba fire and brimstone, and a lot Valley church of Christ. of other things that didn't just so loving, broadminded, and 11 Ms. Hayes went on further to stuto that sho am I her husband prepared for their work by educating at Abilene really relate to how you get comfortable, and they may look with Christian University, The Institute for Christian Stiulies along in life. Today, it's one longing eyes at the megachurches as (in Austin, TX), and Yale Divinity School. While she « ould not agree that either Abilcno Christian University or Tho of the most responsive success stories. Their worship ser Institute for Christian Studies, as an institution, would sup churches in the area to the vices will become more theatrical, port tho stand of Cahaba Valley. Ms. Hayes did state that there were individuals on the faculties of both institu ions needs of people...Members of more entertaining, and more appeal who would. "Gary Tandy, Southern Hills church of Christ bul the Church ofChrist used to ing to the less spiritual mind but letin, undated. have a reputation of feeling John 4:24 remains unchanged. Their ° Identity Statement of the Southern Hills Fellov ship OfChrist, p.4 like they were the only ones work will center on erasing physical - Next Church, p.50 going to heaven. But that's hunger rather than providing spiri- " Rubel Shelly and Randy Harris, p.47, as quoU d by Curtis Cates in The Second Incantation, p.47 changed in Churches of tualfood (John 6:26-27) and remov "Next Church,p.52 Christ by and large, and it's ing physical poverty rather than pro "Next Church, p.52 " As published in tho Dallas Morning News, iicpt. certainly not true in this viding clean spiritual garments 12, 1992, p.38A, under the caption, "PreacherFollom His Own Conscience, Starts Church." church. The church wel (Rev. 3:18). After all, why bother " As quoted in tho Ft. Worth Star Telegram, O A. 5. comes you with open arms anyone about the steps to salvation 1988, pp.1-2, under the caption, 'Church Mission Is Metting Needs OfHurt People." no matter where you come ifyou do not believe they're lost? "Next Church, p.47 from."30 The megachurch proponent in

This valiant verse and the elect lady and her children (vs. tremendous truth embedded 1,4,5,13). therein reads, "Whosoever THE MEANING HOW ARE THE transgresseth, and abideth not in the TRANSGRESSORS IDENTIFIED? doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He This verse is in the context of that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, verses 7,8. Therein John depicted a he hath both the Father and the Son." ing of Christ, hath not God: he that deceiver, i.e., one who went about The ASV renders the verse in this abideth in the teaching, the same spreading dangerous delusions and fine fashion, "Whosoever goeth hath both the Father and the Son." poisonous practices. The world was onward and abideth not in the teach- This message was addressed to the full of them in John's day. They were October 1997 - Seek The Old Paths 7/79

Docetic Gnostics who refused to con of the livestock for self-appointed and to teach through the apostles. Henry fess that Jesus had come in the flesh. self-satisfying sacrificial purposes, Alford in Alford's Greek Testament, They said he only appeared to have a what David and the people did with not abiding in the doctrine of Christ body but was just a phantom. They the new ox cart in transporting the (i.e.,) in Christ's doctrine, - that truth were antichrist - those opposed to ark of the covenant in 2 Samuel 6, which Christ himself taught. Joseph Christ and totally hostile to his divine what Jeroboam did in the new reli Henry Thayer in his Greek-English claims. They were the sort of people gion he devised for the newly formed Lexicon, The doctrine which has God, that, ifheard and heeded, could make Northern Kingdom in 1 Kings 12, Christ, the Lord, for its author and the elect lady and her children lose what arrogant Uzziah, king ofJudah, supporter. their heavenly rewards. They are the did relative to incense burning in 2 In his superb commentary on the ones who go onward or take the lead. Chronicles 26, and the worship epistles of Peter, John and Jude "Transgresseth," "goeth onward" or devised by human will that constitut brother Guy N. Woods says, "The "taketh the lead" derive from the ed part of the Colossian heresy in teaching of Christ' here is not teach word proago in the Greek text and Colossians 2 - whatever pleases the ing about Christ, or teaching which is from which we derive such terms as human heart. Some years back I had Christian in substance or nature; it is progress, progressive and progres a frank conversation with a college the teaching which Christ did person sion. However, this progress is AWAY student of mine when I taught Bible ally and through those whom he from, rather than TOWARD the for college credit in the University of inspired. It is the teaching of Christ, Christ. As such it becomes daring, Tennessee at Martin. She was a because he is, in the final analysis, its defiant digression. It becomes reck member of the Christian Church. We author, and from him it issued. It is less retrogression. It is a rebellious talked freely and frankly about their thus an infallible standard, and no refusal to stay with what Christ and usage ofmechanical music in worship deviation from it is possible without apostolic authority taught. The trans and our refusal to use such. Quite apostasy." gressors refuse to abide in the doc candidly she said, "I realize there is The doctrine ofthe Pharisees and trine ofChrist. It is too straight-laced no New Testament authority for its Sadducees in Matthew 16 is the doc for them; it is too old-fashioned for use; my brethren and I use it trine they taught - not what was them; it is too much lacking in mod BECAUSE WE LIKE IT." That is the taught about them. The doctrines and ernistic progression for them. The real WHY of its usage among all reli commandments of men in Mark 7 Christian church in their digressive gious devotees of the same, though and Matthew 15 are what they dives into the missionary society, few will be as frank and honest as taught - not what others taught mechanical music in worship and lit this young lady was. about them. The doctrine of Balaam erally dozens of other digressive prac The one who abides is the person and the Nicolaitans in Revelation 2 is tices view themselves as progressives. who remains with the doctrine of what they taught - not what others They did this a century ago; there has Christ minus addition, subtraction, taught about them. been no appreciable change in them modification, alteration or any sort of Some wish to make the doctrine in modern times. They did and do substitution. To abide in truth means of Christ equal just to an expressed depict their opponents (churches of to give it a warm welcome, to provide belief that Jesus is God's Son and Christ) as non-progressives, moss a home for it and to allow it a perma thus the only ground or condition of backs, lacking in toleration and non- nent residence in attitude and action, fellowship with him regardless of possessors of that irenic spirit in in motive and mission, in language what else he believes or does not which they take pompous pride. and life. believe. The doctrine of Christ is ABIDETH NOT AND WHAT IS THE the entire Gospel which God's ABIDETH CONTRASTED DOCTRINE OF CHRIST? Son taught personally and con "Transgresseth" or "goeth It is not the doctrine about Christ tinued to teach by apostolic onward" and "abideth not in the doc but the doctrine he taught personally agency when he went back to the trine of Christ" describe the same or that which he taught through Palace of the Universe on heav atrocious act. One is a positive apostolic agency. Here are what some enly high. description; the other delineates a outstanding Greek scholars have said HOW DOES ONE HAVE negative description. To abide not is a relative to this verse, A. T. Robertson BOTH THE FATHER AND SON? refusal to remain adamantly in apos in his Word Pictures In The New Tes By abiding adamantly and tolic doctrine. It is a digression from tament, Vol. 6, p.254, Not the teach remaining permanently in the doc such; it is a departure from truth into ing about Christ, but that of Christ trine or teaching ofJesus Christ, i.e., error - fatal error, damnable false which is the standard of Christian the Gospel of God's only begotten hood. Such people do in the noxious teaching as the walk of Christ is the Son. We have the Father when we name of religious progression what is standard for the christian's walk (1 have the Son; we have the Son when unauthorized by Holy Writ. They do John 2:6). J. R. W. Stott in his com we have the Father. We have both what they want to do; this is the all mentary on John's epistles, about the when we hear and heed their doc pervading principle behind their reli "Usage Of The NT." (Westcott, trine, the glorious gospel of God the gious beliefs and practices. They do Crooke) requires that the genitive be Father, God the Son and God the what Cain did in Genesis 4, what interpreted not as objective, "the Spirit. No other has the Timeless Nadab and Abihu did in Leviticus 10, teaching about Christ," but as subjec Trinity. what Saul and the people did in 1 tive, "Christ's teaching." This no P.O. Box 464 Samuel 15 in saving alive the finest doubt includes what Christ continued Ripley, TN38063 8/80 Seek The Old Paths - October 1997

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All the lessons which I heard were well prepared and bury, Tyler, TX. Seek The Old Paths is certainly scriptural and much needed. The ladies of your congregation should certainly appropriate for all to read. It has helped me immensely" ...TX. receive praise for the delicious meals they prepare each year for so "Thank you so much for sending the paper to us. I really enjoy many who attend. I realize that the elders of the church at East reading it and pass it on to others to read. It keeps us informed Corinth have a difficult task before them in deciding the best way about the things going on in our churches. May God bless you with of leading the flock there. May they continue to see the importance a long life in his service" ...Randolph & Merle Banner, Lake Cor of the lectureship in regard to how many lives it is helping and con morant, MS. "Please accept this small donation for the mailing of gregations it is protecting. Garland, your determination to direct Seek The Old Paths. I look forward to reading it each time. I the lectureship does not go unnoticed for you do an outstandingjob appreciate the stand that the East Corinth congregation and broth and I know that God will bless you for it. It was sad for me to have er Robinson takes for the Truth. It amazes me how brethren twist to attend this year without my wife as she was with our daughter the Scriptures, knowing in the end we will be judged by them" who is very ill in the hospital. I was blessed in that a good preach ...Gary Price, Murray, KY. "Please put me on your mailing list for ing friend, Joe Nichols, was able to come with me. God bless all of Seek The Old Paths, I like to read your paper. It is very informa you in keeping you well both physically and spiritually" ...Don Tate, tive about the false doctrine that is creeping into the Lord's church. Ferriday, LA. Keep up the good work" ...Faye Burch, Hartford, AL. 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