Book Review: Great Dodrines of the Bible p. 4 January-February 2019 Gospel Gleaner For the lord, His Word, and His Church

Things We Must Know Remaining Established in the Present Truth

The Existence of God Robert Waggoner p. 1 Why Belief in God is important

The Deity of Christ Owen Olbricht p. 5 Jesus Is God!

The Inspiration of the Bible John T. Polk, II p. 9 The Bible Is the Word of God

The Distinctive Nature of the Lord's Church Thomas McClemore p. 12 The Distinctive Characteristics of the Church

God Desires Worship in Spirit and Truth Andy Robison p. 16 Prioritizing the Worship God Seeks from Us

Also in this issue

Mike Kiser Marriage, Divorce, and Re-Marriage p. 19 Jackson Erwin The Transgender Question p. 21 Ronald Bryant Knowing about God or Knowing God p.25 Andy Erwin The New Heavens and New Earth (part 2) p. 27 "Tbe Cburcbes ofCbrist Greet You" (Romans 16:16)

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The church belongs to Christ. It is His church. We, therefore, seek to honor Christ as our Lord in our worship, teaching, and daily walk.

One can be added to this sacred assembly and spiritual kingdom by hearing the gospel preached (Romans 10:17); believing the facts concerning Christ as revealed in the gospel (John 8:24); repenting of sin (Luke 13:3, 5); confessing faith in Christ (Romans 10:9-10); and by being baptized into Christ (Romans 6:3; Colossians 2:11-13; Galatians 3:26- 27) to wash sins away by the blood of Christ (Acts 22:16; Ephesians 1:7).

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Correspondences, news and notes, and article considerations can be sent electronically to [email protected]. The West Fayetteville Church of Christ reserves the right of discretion in deciding which correspondences, news, notes, and articles to publish. The bistence of God Gospel Gleanei•

Yol.31 • No.1 Robert Waggoner

WRITERS FOR THIS ISSUE You'll probably agree with the proposition that what people believe about God is a determining factor in how people behave. You'll probably Ronald Bryant also agree that such is true not only Huntsville, Alabama for individuals but also for societies. Andy Erwin This means that whenever people be­ Fayetteville, Tennessee lieve in God, they have a consistent, Jackson Erwin single standard that motivates their Elizabethton, Tennessee behavior because God is one (Romans 3:30; Galatians 3:20; James 2:19) and Mike Kiser he is unchanging (Psalm 15:4; Mala­ Sylcauga, Alabama chi 3:16; Hebrews 6:18; James 1:17). Therefore, collectively speaking, a Tom McClemore society of believers will have a united Selma, Alabama society that strives to conform to the will of God. Owen Olbricht Sherwood, Arkansas However, whenever individuals do not believe in God, they have incon­ John T. Polk, II sistent and pluralistic standards moti­ Oneida, Tennessee vating their behaviors because they Andy Robison are many and often change their Moundsville, West Virginia minds. Therefore, collectively speak­ ing, a society of non-believers will Robert Waggoner have a divided and permissive society Montgomery, Alabama that fluctuates according to the whims of its people. A society with large segments of both believers and non-believers will find itself fraught with constant com­ petition within its governing agencies. That is where we are in our country today. Belief in whether or not God exists therefore has practical im- Gospel Gleaner 11 portance, not only for individuals, but standards applicable to everyone and also for societies as a whole. you will yield yourself to obeying his commandments (Luke 18:20; 1 John How believers and disbelievers 2:3-4). Moreover, you will want eve­ behave differently can be demonstrat­ ryone else in your community to abide ed in various ways. Believers in God by his commandments because it will affirm that God created the world provide uniformity within your socie­ (Genesis 1:1; Nehemiah 9:6; Isaiah ty. 42:5; Revelation 10:6), that he inter­ acts with humanity that he is the su­ On the other hand, if you do not preme law-giver, and that he will believe in the existence of God, then judge everyone. He will reward the you are likely to think that there are righteous and punish the wicked. Dis­ no absolute universal standards and believers in God deny these proposi­ you will not obey his commandments. tions. Notice how people behave dif­ Without God, law and ethics are con­ ferently in accordance with their be­ sidered relative, situational and auton­ liefs about each of these propositions. omous. Your personal ethical stand­ ards may easily shift to the fluctuating If you believe that God is your political, social, and cultural values of maker and that you were made in his your permissive society. image (Genesis 1:27; 5:1; 9:6; 1 Co­ rinthians 11 :7), then you will believe If you believe that God interacts that since God is spirit (John 4:24; 2 with humanity as he did through No­ Corinthians 3: 17) you also have a ah, Abraham, Moses, the prophets, spiritual nature (Isaiah 42:5; 1 Corin­ and the apostles to bless humanity, thians 2:11) that needs to be nourished then you may think that God may act by the word of God (Deuteronomy through you to accomplish his pur­ 8:3; Matthew 4:4). On the other hand, poses (Romans 8:28). You will prob­ if you deny that God is your maker, ably seek to influence your communi­ then you will consider yourself only ty to be righteous (Proverbs 11 : 11 ; physical in nature, and will not look to 14:34). God for guidance. On the other hand, if you believe If you believe that God is the su­ that there is no God then you will not preme lawgiver, i.e., that God pro­ be motivated toward godly living be­ vides the ethical, social, political, cul­ cause you will probably believe that tural and legal standards for life (Gen­ everyone's lifestyle is equally valid. esis 1:28; 5:13-21; 8:16-17; 12:1-3; You may not seek to influence your Exodus 3:5ff; 20:1-17; Deuteronomy community toward godliness because 4:2; Ecclesiastes 12:13; Matthew you may consider that the wisdom of 22:36-40), then you are likely to be­ humanity is sufficient for its own lieve that there are absolute universal

21Gospel Gleaner guidance. You may even think that Five major arguments from reason believers in God are unrealistic. for believing in the existence of God may be stated briefly. First, religion If you believe that God will resur­ exists in all cultures. While cultures rect you from the dead (John 5:28-29) may differ in their religious beliefs, no and that God will judge the world in culture has ever been known not to be righteousness (Acts 17:32), then you religious. That fact indicates that reli­ will probably seek to obey God's gion is ingrained within the human commandments, acknowledge that psyche. People look with awe at the you sin, repent, and live righteously in immensity and grandeur of the uni­ order that you may have eternal life verse and attribute its greatness to with God (John 3:15-16; Romans 2:7; super human intelligence and power. Galatians 6:8). You will probably also Hence, there must be a God. This is strive to persuade others to live right­ called the intuitive argument for God. eously in order that they too may have everlasting life. Second, since it is impossible for people to think about that which does On the other hand, if you believe not exist and since people can think that you will not be resurrected nor be about God, then God must exist. God judged by God, then you may be in­ is considered to be "that than which clined to selfishly seek the pleasures nothing greater can be conceived." and fortunes of this life. Moreover, This is known as the ontological ar­ you may have little incentive to care gument. about the misfortunes of others (Luke 16:19-31). Third, within every individual there is a sense of "ought," i.e., some These examples of contrasting behaviors are right and other behav­ beliefs are only a few of many that iors are wrong. There may be differ­ might be given, but they are enough to ences in what is considered by differ­ illustrate that belief in God is im­ ent cultures as being right and wrong, portant and relevant not only for indi­ but everyone has an inherent sense of viduals but also for societies as a what ought to be. This is designated whole. How then can you prove to as the moral or anthropological argu­ others that God exists? ment. Through the centuries, people have Fourth, everything affected must pondered about how to answer that have an adequate cause because noth­ question. Of course, the Bible declares ing can come from nothing. Since the that God exists but biblical declara­ universe exists, it must have been tions are considered not valid by dis­ affected by a cause greater than itself. believers. Therefore, arguments that Since motion exists, things that move are meaningful to them must come must have been set in motion by from human reasoning. Gospel Gleaner 13 something or someone. Natural things Great Doctrines ofthe Bible are contingent upon something greater by Robert Waggoner than themselves. Something greater Reviewed by Ronald Bryant than what is natural requires a Super­ natural, i.e. God. This is the cosmo­ This volume is multifaceted. It logical argument. sets forth biblical truth in exacting and scholarly fashion; yet, it is extremely Fifth, since the universe exhibits readable and practical. The narrative design, purpose, unity, complexity, is both challenging and encouraging. and order, there must have been a The seasoned preacher or teacher will find it an excellent resource. The nov­ designer to give it purpose, unity, ice will find it to be an excellent guide complexity, and order. This is the to understanding biblical truth and teleological argument. These argu­ growth. In heart-warming fashion it ments from reason as well as biblical exalts Scripture, and insists upon the arguments need to be proclaimed application of truth. throughout the nations. The initial part of each section sets Knowing about God is important forth essential materials and in-depth arguments. Each is followed, on each because individuals and societies live page, with biblical passages which better when they abide by his ordi­ establish and re-enforce the focus. nances. Ideally, individuals and socie­ The author's personal convictions are ties who believe in God are unselfish, strong and encouraging. loving people that feel safe and care Each chapter serves to educate; to about their neighbors. ground and to strengthen biblical in­ A society in which a large segment sight and personal conviction. The book itself would be excellent for the of its citizens does not believe in God equipping of leaders, teachers, and becomes a selfish, uncaring society personal workers. Such could be done wherein people feel the need to pro­ in the regular classes on the Lord's tect themselves from criminals and Day and mid-week classes. scammers. Which kind society would There are forty chapters, and each you prefer to live in? is filled with clear enunciation of the major doctrines of the Bible. The Ancient Israel became wicked as it major attraction of the book is the departed from the knowledge of God authors appeal to knowing the biblical (Hosea 4: l-6). To turn individuals and text, and the application of the same. societies from wickedness to right­ The questions are also excellent teach­ eousness requires that they acquire a ing tools. greater knowledge of God. People are Available from Gospel Light Publishing blessed whenever they mediate upon Company; gospellightbooks.com the word of God (Psalm 1:1-3). $22.95

41Gospel Gleaner The Deity of Christ Owen Olbricht ·

One of the important questions The weight of the evidence from concerning Jesus is, "Is He God or the text and from grammar supports man? An examination of Scriptures the conclusion that Jesus, the "Word," will bring a careful student to the con­ is God; He has the God nature. By clusion that Jesus is God. becoming flesh (Jn. 1:14), He was God with us (Mt. 1:23), God in a hu­ John 1:1 man body. John 1:1 is one of the crucial vers­ The Jews, in the following passag­ es in determining whether or not Jesus es, correctly understood Jesus' state­ is God. By John writing that the Word ments and realized that He was saying was God. He did not mean that the that He was God. To them this was Word was the God, but that the Word blasphemy, which was why they was God, which expresses the nature sought to kill Him. of the Word who was with the God. John 5:17,18 It is incorrect to say that Jesus was "a god" and not God (Jn. 1:1 ). It is After Jesus healed a handicapped correct to say Jesus was God, doing so man, He was answering the Jews' without the article "a" (The article "a" accusation that He had not respected does not appear in the Greek). In the the Sabbath (John 5:16). He respond­ sentence, "The Word was God," Word ed that He was working as My Father is the nominative (subject) and God is works. The Jews picked up on the predicate without an article. word "My" instead of "the," which implied Jesus had the same nature as Zerwick in his grammar comments God, and could have the same privi­ on the use of the predicate without an leges as God. article: "The omission of the article shows that the speaker regards the "But He answered them, 'My Father person or thing not so much as this or is working until now, and I Myself am that person or things, but rather as working. For this reason therefore the such a person or thing, i.e. regards not Jews were seeking all the more to kill the individual but rather its nature or Him, because He not only was break­ quality."1 ing the Sabbath, but also was calling God His own Father, making Himself Other grammars could be quoted, equal to God'" (Jn. 5:17, 18). all of which confirm the accuracy of the Zerwick quotation. The Jews realized Jesus meant God was His Father instead of the Father

Gospel Gleaner IS of all people, making himself equal to the "I AM." Also the Jews picking up God. stones to kill Jesus (Jn. 8:59) might imply that they understood Jesus' In the rest of chapter John 5, Jesus statement, "I am," to mean that He shows that He is with the Father, had the God nature, thus is God. • Jesus can do what the Father does John identifies Jesus with the "I (19). am" of the Old Testament by stating • Jesus can give life to raise the that Isaiah prophesied about Jesus, dead as the Father can (21, 25). "These things Isaiah said because he saw His glory and spoke of Him" (Jn. • Jesus has the right of judgment 12:41). The statement John quotes (Jn. and will judge instead of the Fa­ 12:40) is taken from Isaiah (Isa. 6:9, ther (22, 27, 30). 10) when Isaiah saw the Lord on the • Jesus being honored gives honor throne (Isa. 6:1-7). to the Father (23). In this setting the One on the John 8:24, 28, 58; 13:19 throne is called YHWH, "Yahweh," in verses 3 and 5, also translated "Jeho­ By using the term, "I Am," (Jn. vah." If the One on the throne is 8:24, 28) was Jesus associating Him­ "Yahweh" that Isaiah saw, and Jesus self with the "I Am," the YHWH, is the One Isaiah saw, then Jesus can "Yahweh," ofthe OT who appeared to be identified as God, "Yahweh." See­ Moses in the burning bush (Ex. 3:2, ing one is seeing the other for they are 14)? one (Jn. 14:9). The weight of scholarship accepts John 10:30-33, 36 "I am," as used in John 8:24, 28, 58; 13:19, to mean that Jesus was identi­ The Jews told Jesus, "For a good fying Himself with the "I AM" (Yah­ work we do not stone You, but for weh) of the Old Testament. blasphemy; and because You, being a man, make Yourself out to be God." Newman and Nida comment con­ The Jews correctly conclude Jesus cerning "I Am," "In later Judaism the taught He was God. Jesus answered, expression 'I am' is definitely used as "Has it not been written in your Law, a name for God. Thus, in those pas­ 'I said, you are gods"' (cf. Psa. 82:6)? sages in John's gospel where Jesus uses 'I am' in the absolute sense, he is If He called them gods, to whom identifying himself with God."2 the word of God carne (and the Scrip­ ture cannot be broken) do you say of The mention of the Angel of the Him, whom the Father sanctified and Lord (Ex. 3:2) in the burning bush sent into the world, 'You are blas­ calling Himself the "I AM," gives pheming,' because I said, 'I am the good reason to associate Jesus with 6IGospel Gleaner Son of God" (Jn. 10:30-36)? life in Himself, as the Father has life Jesus was indicating that if prophets, in Himself (Jn. 5:26). Jesus was, "I who were merely men could be called AM, that I AM," existing because He gods, then surely He, being God, exists, having life dependent on Him­ could be called God, self and not on another. Thus Thomas did not classify Jesus along with cre­ Newman and Nida wrote, "If ated beings which depend on God for those persons who received God's their existence, but with God who is Law ... could be spoken of as 'gods,' self-dependent. how much more can the one whom the Father has chosen and sent into the Other Passages world claim to be 'the Son of God.' Jesus is either equated with the ... Jesus is not claiming to be a divine Father as having the same nature as being among many others; he is God or is called God in the passages claiming a unique prerogative, and the below. They show Jesus is the image Jews recognize this."3 of God and of His nature; therefore, John 10:38; 14:10, 11 He is God, not the Father, but the Son. In explaining the oneness He had • "And His name wiii be called with the Father (Jn. 10:30), Jesus stat­ Wonderful Counselor, Mighty ed, "the Father is in Me, and I in the God, Eternal Father, Prince of Father" (John 10:38). They are one in Peace" (Isa. 9:6b). nature and essence, and as such they • "They shall call His name Im­ can be co-joined, and act in unity in manuel, which translated means, the work they do (see also 14:10, 11). 'God with us" (Mt. 1:23). The Jews understood that Jesus • "No one has seen God at any was implying that His being in God time; the only begotten God who and God in Him meant that He is God, is in the bosom of the Father, He the Son, who was with God, the Fa­ has explained Him" (Jn. 1:18; ther. For this reason they sought again NASB). to seize Jesus (Jn. 10:39). • 'The church of God which He John 20:28 purchased with His own blood" Did Thomas call Jesus God by (Acts 20:28). saying, "My Lord, and My God"? (Jn. 20:28). • "From whom is the Christ ac­ cording to the flesh, who is over Thomas was addressing Jesus after all, God blessed forever. Amen" seeing proof of His resurrection and (Rom. 9:5). realizing that Jesus' resurrection, as He had promised, showed that He had

Gospel Gleaner 17 • "For we will all stand before the • "But of the Son He says, 'Your judgment seat of God" (Rom. throne, 0 God, is forever and ev­ 14:10b). 'For we must all appear er" (Heb. I :8). before the judgment seat of ''Therefore God, Your God, has Christ" (2 Cor. 5:10a). Jesus is • anointed You with the oil of God before whom we all will ap­ gladness above your compan­ pear (Jn. 5:22). ions" (Heb. 1:9). "The god of this world had blind­ • "Who have received a faith of the ed the minds ... so that they might • same kind as ours, by the right­ not see the light of the gospel of eousness of our God and Savior, the glory of Christ, who is the Jesus Christ" (2 Pet. I : 1). image of God" (2 Cor. 4:4). "We are in Him who is true, in "Christ Jesus, who, although He • • His Son Jesus Christ. This is the existed in the form of God" (Phil. true God and eternal life" ( 1 Jn. 2:6). 5:20). • "He is the image of the invisible God" (Col. I: 15). • "Resulting in a true knowledge of God's mystery, that is, Christ, Himself' (Col. 2:2). 1Maximillian Zerwick, English edition "For in Him all the fullness of adapted from the fourth Latin edition by • Joseph Smith (Rome, 1963), 55. Deity dwells in bodily form" (Col. 2:9). Theoteos, appearing 2Newman and Nida, A Translator's Hand­ only here in the New Testament, book on the Gospel of John (New York, is used outside the New Testa­ NY: American Bible Society), 1980, 124. ment, as defined by Danker, ''the 3Newman and Nida, 344. state of being god, divine charac­ 4Fredrick William Danker, A Greek­ 4 ter/nature, deity, divinity." English Lexicon ofthe New Testament and • Looking for the blessed hope and other Early Christian Literature, third edition, based on Walter Bauer's sixth the appearing of the glory of our edition (Chicago, Ill.: University of Chi­ great God and Savior, Christ Je­ cago Press, 2000), 452. sus" (Titus 2: 13).

• "And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature" (Heb. 1:3).

BIGospel Gleaner The laspi.. atioa of the Bible John T. Polk, II

God identified all that is to Paul by humans, but it was given Scripture. directly from God to the individual writers by "revelation" (Greek, apoca­ "All Scripture is given by inspira­ lypse). This means that the writers' tion of God, and is profitable for doc­ thoughts stimulated by, and were trine, for reproof, for correction, for formed around, the truth from God instruction in righteousness, that the they were given. man of God may be complete, thor­ oughly equipped for every good "For I delivered to you first of all work" (2 Timothy 3:16-17). that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the "Scripture" refers to "God­ Scriptures, and that He was buried breathed" writings. "All" that is ' and that He rose again the third day "Scripture" is the only acceptable according to the Scriptures" (1 Corin­ basis for living the life of a Christian. thians 15:3-4). "So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Ro­ He then listed six specific occa­ mans 10:17). sions the bodily-resurrected Lord was witnessed alive. The very ideas were Christians should never give "heed planted in the writers' minds. What to Jewish fables and commandments was "received" from God was that of men who tum from the truth" (Ti­ which was written. tus 1:14). There are no other religious writings that are God's Scripture. God controlled the writing of Scripture. God controlled the thoughts in Scripture. Peter declared: "knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any "But I make known to you, breth­ private interpretation, for prophecy ren, that the gospel which was never came by the will of man, but preached by me is not according to holy men of God spoke as they were man. For I neither received it from moved by the Holy Spirit" (2 Peter man, nor was I taught it, but it came 1:20-21). through the revelation of Jesus Christ" (Galatians 1:11-12). Since Scripture is not the product of men's minds, men cannot freely "The Gospel" of Jesus Christ did interpret its meaning. No church, nor not originate in the imaginations of group of men (individually or collec­ humans, nor was this doctrine taught tively!) has been authorized by God to Gospel Gleaner 19 determine Scripture meaning, since Only the inner spirit of a person the First Century Apostles. Scripture can reveal one's inner thoughts, so must interpret Scripture! Also, note likewise is it with God. His Holy Spir­ that once the "revelation" was given, it, knowing all, chooses what to reveal God guided the writers to include its to Scripture writers, and from each meaning. individual man, selects from his vo­ cabulary words that best and accurate­ This definitely applies to the writ­ ly expresses God's Will. ings of the Prophets in the Old Testa­ ment, both before and after a specific Men do not teach God what words prophecy, and to the details of its pro­ to use, but God chooses what Words phetic fulfillment in the New Testa­ He wants. This is why there are no ment. If this were not the case, then contradictions, there is no chaos, and Paul could not have said: "For what­ there can be no contractions in the ever things were written before were doctrine. written for our learning, that we For example, the unique term "in­ through the patience and comfort of spired of God" (2 Timothy 3:16) only the Scriptures might have hope" occurs here in Scripture. God has wo­ (Romans 15:4). Confidence in God ven human words together to make a comes through confidence in His tapestry of faith that says the same Word. thing to everyone. Jesus said, "Thus it God chose the words expressing is written, and thus it was necessary the thoughts in Scripture. for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, "and that "But God has revealed them to us repentance and remission of sins through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem" things of God. For what man knows (Luke 24:46-47). the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no The facts of the Gospel give faith one knows the things of God except universally, and the response to that the Spirit of God. Now we have re­ Gospel produces conversion univer­ ceived, not the spirit of the world, but sally. God-breathed Scriptures are the the Spirit who is from God, that we only source of instruction for faith and might know the things that have been obedience to God. Nothing else will freely given to us by God. These suffice. things we also speak, not in words Jesus said, "Well did Isaiah proph­ which man's wisdom teaches but esy of you hypocrites, as it is written: which the Holy Spirit teaches, com­ 'This people honors Me with their paring spiritual things with spiritual" lips, But their heart is far from Me. (1 Corinthians 2:10-13). And in vain they worship Me, Teach- 10 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r ing as doctrines the commandments of the word of men, but as it is in truth, men"' (Mark 7:6-7). Unity of believ­ the word of God, which also effective­ ers comes only by accepting God's ly works in you who believe" (1 Scriptures which teach the same doc­ Thessalonians 2:13). trine to all. The living God has written a word God's Scripture explains every­ which gives life, hence "the word of thing that must be understood. God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, "For this reason I, Paul, the prison­ piercing even to the division of soul er of Christ Jesus for you Gentiles-- if and spirit, and of joints and marrow, indeed you have heard of the dispen­ and is a discerner of the thoughts and sation of the grace of God which was intents of the heart" (Hebrews 4:12). given to me for you, how that by reve­ lation He made known to me the mys­ God's Scriptures are living, not tery (as I have briefly written already, because they are growing and chang­ by which, when you read, you may ing, but because they bring a sinner's understand my knowledge in the mys­ dead soul back to life! tery of Christ), which in other ages I conclude with Gaussen: was not made known to the sons of men, as it has now been revealed by "Such, then, is God's book. Its first the Spirit to His holy apostles and line, its last line, all its teachings, prophets" (Ephesians 3:1-5). understood or not understood, are by the same author; and that ought to There is no "mystery". in God's suffice for us. Whoever may have Plan that has not already been re­ been the writers-whatever their vealed in Scripture. Words convey circumstances, their impressions, ideas, and when read, understood, and their comprehension of the book, accepted, God-chosen words have and the measure of their individuali­ sown His ideas. To "have briefly writ­ ty in this powerful and mysterious ten" these awesome ideas is a proof of operation-they have all written Divine Inspiration, for no humans faithfully and under superintendence could have spoken so tersely but in the same roll, under the guidance clearly. of one and the same Master, for God's Scriptures are never to be whom a thousand years are as one lowered to the level of human day; and the result has been the Bi­ writings. ble. Therefore I will not lose time in idle questions; I will study the "For this reason we also thank God book." (The Divine Inspiration of the without ceasing, because when you Bible, L. Gaussen, D.O., Edinburg, Scot­ received the word of God which you land, 1841, Kregel Publications, Grand heard from us, you welcomed it not as Rapids, Michigan, reprint 1979). Gospel Gleaner 111 The Distinctive Nature of the Lord's Church

Tom McLemore

Few, if any, outside the Lord's those who received his word were church understand its distinctive na­ baptized, and there were added that ture. Sadly, an increasing number of day about three thousand souls .... And members of the Lord's church are the Lord added to their number day by unaware of the distinctive nature of it. day those who were being saved" Though they are members of the (Acts 2:37, 38, 40, 47). Lord's church, their lack of under­ The process of being saved does standing of the church's distinctive not make one a member of any other nature allows them to be led to join church. There is no denomination of denominations, to view involvement which I am aware that considers one in the worship, corporate life, and to have become a member of that de­ work of the church as unimportant or nomination in the process of being nonessential, and to accept erroneous saved. Every denomination of which doctrines and practices that corrupt I have knowledge will admit that they the Lord's church. Consider with me believe that one can have been saved some of the distinctive characteristics and yet not be a member of that de­ of the Lord's church. nomination. Membership and Salvation Built and Saved by Christ The Lord's church is the only The Lord's church is the only church of which one becomes a mem­ church that the Lord is building and ber in the process of being saved by ofwhom the Lord is savior. The Lord Christ. "Now when they heard this is building his church by saving peo­ they were cut to the heart, and said to ple, and everyone whom he has saved Peter and the rest of the apostles, is in the Lord's church. Jesus de­ 'Brethren, what shall we do?' And clared, "And I tell you, you are Peter, Peter said to them, 'Repent, and be and on this rock I will build my baptized every one of you in the name church, and the powers of death shall of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of not prevail against it" (Matthew your sins; and you shall receive the 16:18). gift of the Holy Spirit. .. And he testi­ fied with many other words and ex­ "For the husband is the head of the horted them, saying, 'Save yourselves wife as Christ is the head of the from this crooked generation.' So

121Gospel Gleaner church, his body, and is himself its Christ have put on Christ" (Galatians Savior" (Ephesians 5:23). 3:26, 27). "Come to him, to that living stone, "Whoever does the will of God is rejected by men but in God's sight my brother, and sister, and mother" chosen and precious; and like living (Mark 3:35). stones be yourselves built into a spir­ Of no other church is one a mem­ itual house, to be a holy priesthood, to ber by this spiritual birth. One may be offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to born anew and still not be considered God through Jesus Christ" (1 Peter by a denomination to be a member of 2:4, 5). that denomination. That shows that All other churches are being built such denominations are no part of the by human beings. They may claim to family of which God is Father and be a church that is being built by Christ is brother. Christ, but that claim is false because Obedience to the New Testament the membership of their church is constituted on some other basis than The Lord's church is the only the result of people having been saved church that is not the result of teach­ by Christ. ing that was developed by some hu­ man being, that is not the result of God as Father and Christ as Brother emphasizing a particular practice or The Lord's church is the only fra­ characteristic of Christianity, and that ternity of which God is Father and is not the result ofan interpretation of Christ is brother. One comes to be a Scripture. member of the Lord's church only by Every denomination exists as the being born into it. result of one or more of these things. "But to all who received him, who In contrast, the Lord's church is the believed in his name, he gave power result of hearing the gospel as pre­ to become children of God; who were sented in the New Testament, believ­ born, not of blood nor of the will of ing it, and obeying it. the flesh nor of the will of man, but of The Lord's church emphasizes, God" (John 1:12, 13). and its members strive to practice, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless ALL things the Lord commanded his one is born of water and the Spirit, he apostles. The Lord's church EXHIB­ cannot enter the kingdom of God" ITS all of the characteristics of Chris­ (John 3:5). tianity as revealed in the New Testa­ "For in Christ Jesus you are all ment. sons of God, through faith. For as Rather than teaching interpreta­ many of you as were baptized into tions of Scripture, and drawing lines

Gospel Gleaner 113 of fellowship on the basis of such without addition, subtraction, substitu­ interpretations, members of the Lord's tion, or interpretation. church teach, and draw lines of fel­ It is "The Church" lowship on the basis of, what the Scripture itself SAYS. The Lord's church is the only church that needs no name. While The Lord's church is the result of there are many descriptions of the fulfilling 1 Peter 4:11. "Whoever Lord's church in the New Testament, speaks, as one who utters oracles of one will search in vain to find a name God" - the oracles of God are the for the church. It is simply "the Scriptures. church" (Acts 8:3; 9:31;20:28; 12:28; Without Addition, Subtraction, Ephesians 1:22; 3:10, 21; 5:23,25,27, Substitution, or Interpretation 29, 32; Philippians 3:6; Colossians 1:18, 24). The Lord's church exists on the basis of what the Scripture SAYS The New Testament refers only to without addition, subtraction, substitu­ the Lord's church, and there is not tion, or interpretation. It is character­ another church within its pages from ized by and practices what the Scrip­ which it must be distinguished. The ture SAYS without addition, subtrac­ essence of the term "denomination" is tion, substitution, or interpretation. the practice of assuming a name for The Lord's church in every respect is the purpose of distinguishing. Every the result of the fulfillment of the denomination has a name and must Great Commission. have a name, because none of them is the church of the New Testament. "And Jesus came and said to them, 'All authority in heaven and on earth They are distinct from the church has been given to me. Go therefore of the New Testament, and they must and make disciples of all nations, bap­ distinguish themselves from the tizing them in the name of the Father church in the New Testament by as­ and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, suming a name. In contrast, the teaching them to observe all that I Lord's church is the church of the have commanded you; and lo, I am New Testament distinct from all de­ with you always, to the close of the nominations, and therefore needs no age"' (Matthew 28:18-20). denominational name.

The Lord's church exists because No Other Choice people are baptized in the name of the The Lord's church is the only Sacred Three, and the life of the church made up ofpeople who had no Lord's church is simply a putting into choice to make with respect to the practice of all that Jesus commanded church of which they would be mem­ bers. 141Gospel Gleaner In contrast to the cry, "Be saved, and join the church of your choice," those who have chosen to obey the Bear Valley Bible Institute I f4 T E H N ,, '"I 0 '•l A l gospel of Clu·ist had no choice to make between churches. A Graduate Degree for the In the process of saving them Working Minister through their obedi ence to the gospel, those who were being saved were The Bear Va lley Bible Institute Gradu­ being added by the Lord himself to ate Studies Program was designed with the local preacher in mind. The student the Lord's church (Acts 2:41, 47). ca n complete t he program without Distinct fro m the notion, "I want to leaving his current minist ry. be saved, but I am not interested in Earn a Master's Degree In: being a member of any chmch," those + Biblical Studies who have chosen to obey the gospel had no choice to make. In the process + Theological Studies of saving them through their obedi­ www. wetrainpreachers.com ence to the gospel, the Lord added them to hi s church. Contact BVBI

In the New Testament, there is no (303) 986-5800- Main such thing as a saved person who was (800) 76 6-4641 - Toll Free not a member of the Lord's church. info@wetrai npreachers.com On the other hand, all denominations distinguish being saved fro m being Bear Valley Bible lnstitutte members of their particular denomina­ 2707 S. Lamar Street tion. To them, one church is as good as another. Not so, to the Lord! Denver, Colorado 80227

Conclusion

The Lord's church is distinct in Denny Petrillo, President nature. It is unique. It is the onl y tTue Donnie Bates, Dea n, Graduate Studies church. It alone is exclusively divine in origin, existence, di recti on, and destiny. If you wi ll obey the gospel, you will be added to it as the Lord saves yo u, and as a faithful member of it, you will be precisely where the Lord wou ld have you to be for the rest ofyom li fe on earth!

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 15 Goo DESIRES WoRSHIP IN SPIRIT AND TRUTH

Andy Robison

Nobody reads minds. I have no We must, to please God, stick to idea what you are thinking unless you what is written (Deut. 4:2; 29:29; tell me. You have no idea what I am Prov. 30:5-6; 1 Cor. 4:6; I Pet. 4:II; thinking unless I tell you. Gal. I:6-8; Rev. 22:I8-I9). There­ fore, the sincere worshiper is the That is the thrust of the illustration truth-seeking worshiper. He is not Paul used in I Corinthians 2: li re­ one who allows his practices to be garding God's revelation to mankind guided by wishes. Rather, he is guid­ through the apostles: "For what man ed by authority. He finds that authori­ knows the things of a man except the ty in the Scriptures, using common­ spirit of the man which is in him? sense principles of interpretation. Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God." In common speech, most people understand statements of authority We do not know what God is and the subtle nuances of them. A thinking unless He tells us. In verse parent orders a child to play in the 12, Paul affirms the necessary revela­ yard. There is no instruction on what tion was given to the apostles: "Now games the child must play, so there is we have received, not the spirit of the freedom to choose. There is, though, world, but the Spirit who is from God, limitation on where to play because of that we might know the things that the specification, "In the yard". The have been freely given to us by God." child may not go to the neighbor's Verse I3 tells us Paul and the other yard, or in somebody's house, even inspired men passed on those revela­ though the parent did not say, "Do not tions. We have them compiled in the go" to those places. The silence in the completed Scriptures (2 Tim. 3:I6- first case (a generic command) frees. 17). The silence in the second case (a spe­ Our relationship to God is based cific command) limits. solely on that which He has revealed. So, the sincere seeker approaches His word is the basis for faith (Rom. the Scriptures, wondering what to do I 0: I7). Our feelings or imaginations to show love and appreciation to Al­ about what God might or might not mighty God. He finds Jesus' demand accept have no place in our quest to that worship must be "in spirit and please Him. When we in essence say, truth" (John 4:24). He starts by seek­ "I don't think God would mind if ing instructions from God's word, we ... " we arrogantly claim to read which is "truth" (John I7:I7). God's mind on unrevealed matters.

16 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r He will see that early disciples occasions (Acts 4:23-30). Since he "continued steadfastly in the apostles' sees that no limitations on days of the doctrine" (Acts 2:42) and that early week occur here, he will conclude that worship services included a time for such prayers may be offered anytime, preaching (Acts 20:7; 1 Cor. 11:17- but certainly must be included in the 16:2, especially chapter 15). So he Lord's Day service (cf. Rev. 1:10). will conclude that when the believers He knows that in the worship de­ "come together as a church" (1 Cor. scribed in Corinth praying took place 11: 18), preaching was included. Not (1 Cor. 14:15). wanting to add to or take away from He will also note that singing then the word of God, he will-with the took place (1 Cor. 14:15), but also that local brethren, and under the authority singing may be done anytime (Eph. of the local eldership if one is pre­ 5:19; Col. 3:16; James 5:13). sent-include in the planned worship a time for preaching. (Note: The worship in Corinth had the acts of worship we ascertain from He will see that the worship period the rest of the Scriptures, but also had of the church included a great empha­ elements of the miraculous which sis on the Lord's Supper (1 Cor. were limited to the first century. In­ 11 :23ff.), and note that such service structions about regulating the mi­ took place on the first day of the week raculous no longer directly apply (1 Cor. 16:1-2). He will place appro­ since we don't have those, but the priate emphasis on that example and principles of decency and order [1 the one in Acts 20:7 where the "disci­ Cor. 14:40] do.) ples came together to break bread"­ "on the first day of the week". Since Curious to this person desirous of such specification is exemplified, he living by New Testament Christianity will observe the limitation of silence, is that the mention of "singing" puts a and only observe such on the first day. limitation on worship which most of He would not want to add to God's the world of Christendom does not word. And, he will observe it every observe. This seeker correctly rea­ first day, for he does not want to take sons that the commands to sing, and away from God's word, either. to make melody in the heart, and to speak to and teach one another in He will make the same conclusion song, inherently limit what the wor­ concerning the collection for the shiper may do musically in praise of saints (1 Cor. 16:1-2). God. The mention of singing limits This seeker will note that through­ the sincere seeker. He does not want out the Scriptures, prayer is offered. to add instruments, because God-by Examples of prayers come from indi­ the common sense law of silence­ vidual hearts (Phil. 1:3-11) and group left that out when He specified sing-

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 17 ing. He does not want to perform a 5:21-24), he realizes this approach of solo because that would rob his breth­ God cannot be just a ritualistic set of ren of speaking back to him in song. motions from a hypocritical heart. In sincerity, this Christian opts for He needs to draw near to God with congregational singing in the public his heart and not just his mouth, thus worship, without any non-vocal, unin­ avoiding the Lord's rebuke (Matt. telligible elements. Incidentally, then, 15:7-9). He needs to examine himself he likely finds the emotive result to be (l Cor. 11:28; cf. 2 Cor. 13:5) to make quite fulfilling. sure he is not disqualified from com­ Having then, established five acts munion with God. of worship from his New Testament Then, if the potential worshiper has study (preaching, praying, and sing­ so searched the word of God, he can ing, with-on the first day of the be sure his worship is pleasing to the week-the Lord's Supper and giving), Father. God has revealed in His word he turns his attention to worshiping what He wanted done in worship by God in spirit (John 4:24). He has the the commands, examples, and the truth of what should be done. Part of reasonable implications from them. that truth means making sure that his This man followed what God said, spirit is right before God when He and did not wonder if God might ac­ approaches boldly the heavenly throne cept something else. He did not fol­ in praise. low his hunches, and did not propose Whose spirit is correct? It needs to any extra-biblical, special revelation be a spirit controlled by love of breth­ to him. ren (cf. John 13:34-35) and by right This is the meaning of worshiping living. The seeker sees long passages in spirit and truth. in the New Testament about how the new man in Christ is supposed to live (Eph. 4:17-5:21; Col. 3:1-17). Seeing examples in the Old Testament (from which he may still learn [Rom. 15:4; 1 Cor. 10:1- 11]) of God rejecting even His authorized worship because of the people's sinful lifestyles (Isaiah 1: 10-17; Amos "What do we do if they NEVER leave the building?" lSIGospel Gleaner Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage Matthew 19:3-9

Mike Kiser

I. The idea of a second marriage no longer lifts a brow in the Lord's church. 2. Some are alright. We should not question them. Knowledge of some is not obtainable. Those that are adulterous ought not to be condoned. 3. Jesus taught us sufficiently and clearly on this subject.

I. The Basic and Total Doctrine Set Forth. A. Other passages to be considered with this passage: Matthew 5:31, 32; Mark 10:2-12; Luke 16:18; Romans 7:2, 3; I Corinthians 7:10-17. B. Here is what we learn: 1. God created the sexes, male and female. 2. Because of the difference, man would seek out the woman for his wife. 3. The union is so intimate, the two are spoken of as one flesh. 4. The joining together is said to be God's doing. 5. From the beginning it has never God's will they separate. 6. Men do not have a right to separate what God joins together. 7. One putting away a mate and marrying another commits adultery. 8. One who marries one put away becomes an adulterer. 9. Only immorality is a ground for putting away a mate. 10. One who puts away a mate because of immorality may marry an­ other. C. Moses allowed divorce.

1. It was a social concession for the benefit of the woman. 2. He "suffered" the putting away of the wife. 3. Jesus did away with the concession and went back to the begin­ ning.

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 19 II. Some Seek to Misinterpret Jesus' Teaching. A. "Jesus was explaining Moses' law." He did not make a reference to Moses' law. He carefully distinguished His from Moses. "I say unto you." B. "God does not join alien sinners in marriage. Only His children." Jesus was speaking to Jews, does this apply to Jews only? Marriage is honor­ able for all. Hebrews 13: 4; 1 Corinthians 7:2, 10-16, 27, 39. Christ has authority over all men. Matthew 28:18-20; Philippians 2:9-11 C. "Baptism washes away a sinful state." Repentance comes before bap­ tism. Baptism does not make that which is unholy holy. John the Bap­ tist did not try to get Herod baptized but to give up his sinful relation­ ship. Matthew 14:1-5 III. The Problem of Divorce and Remarriage in the Church. A. Fellowship with the immoral will nullify the great good of the church; stain her purity; diminish her glory; and destroy her power in the com­ munity. B. Some adulterous cases may not be known. There should not be reason to suspect every married couple that comes among us. We should know from "whence" they come and "who" they are. C. When adulterers are known, the elders must be concemed. 1. They can talk to the couple about their marriage. Sometimes one or both may acknowledge they did not have a right to divorce and re-marry. 2. If they claim they have a right, and there is no reliable testimony to the contrary, then do not accept hearsay and gossip. 3. If their marriage is un-scriptural then endeavor to teach them the truth; rebuke; and admonish them. If they will not repent, then withdraw fellowship from them. I Corinthians 5:1-13; 2 Thessalo­ nians 3:6 Conclusion 1. The church needs to give emphasis to this doctrine that it may be pure; that sinners may be saved; and that the younger generation may not make the mistake that so many have made. 2. Christ word is sufficient on this matter.

20 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r The Transgender Question

Jackson Erwin

One serious question that Chris­ knowledge, respect, and love for tians have been battling over the last God's Word and the natural order of few years and especially in today's things. society is the idea posed by those on Christian's can no longer sit quiet­ the political and moral left that there ly on the sidelines of this issue. (We is a distinction between gender and never should have in the first place!) sex. This question is one that is now As Peter said, every child of God in the workforce and even in some must, "sanctifY the Lord God in your state legislatures and school boards hearts, and always be ready to give a (such as that of the West Point School defense to everyone who asks you a Board of Virginia). reason for the hope that is in you, with In December 20 18, a teacher at the meekness and fear" (1 Pet. 3:15). West Point High School, Peter Our society now makes gender mal­ Vlaming, was fired for not calling a leable, and thus creates an environ­ transgender student (a female who ment in which the reproductive organs thought she was a male) by the pro­ of a newborn do not validate the sex noun of her choice. 1 That is, he re­ ofthe child. fused to call the student "he," while also choosing not to call her "she" We believe that the question of either. transgenderism is a matter of right and wrong and should not be answered Though he did not "mis-gender" based upon emotions or feelings, but the student by calling her by her cor­ wholly upon facts. rect and biological pronoun, he was still fired for what is often called an It is through this view that science, act of "discrimination" and "hate." the Bible, and statistics should be evaluated, and thus determine whether Cases such as this are more preva­ there is any factual basis in the lent today than at any point in Ameri­ transgender movement and its beliefs. ca's history, and such situations are simply caused due to a lack of Let us examine whether (1) Sex and gender are the same things; and (2) if culture and the mindset of a giv­ 1https://www.faithwire.com/2018/12 en society should determine whether /10/christian-teacher-fired-after­ an individual is male or female. refusing-to-use-trans-students­ preferred-pronoun/ G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 21 Is Sex and Gender the Same? cause the vast majority of news out­ lets, social media, and "scientific" One website gives the overall sum websites are overwhelmingly con­ of the view for differentiating the two, trolled by the political left. writing, "The terms 'sex' and 'gender' are used interchangeably in the daily Also, if society determines whether routine, yet they do not have the same gender is malleable or not, what if the or nearly same meaning. Actually, the vast majority of people reject term 'sex' refers to the biological and transgenderism twenty years from physical difference between men and now? Is it then no longer malleable? women while the term 'gender' refers Obviously, the view that society de­ to characteristics, behaviors, roles, termines what is male and female has expectations etc. between the both."2 some serious contradictions. The same article also includes a An examination of scientific facts graph at the beginning which puts is also needed, since this is a scientific "gender" underneath "culture" and question. Does scientific reasoning "sex" underneath "biology." and logic provide substantial evidence that one can be biologically male and However, a vital flaw can be seen mentally female? Can one be born both in their definition and in the with male or female appendages, but graph. If society decides what is male have the mind and feelings of the op­ and what is female, and has thus made posite gender? the difference between sex and gen­ der, why are the two terms used "in­ The Left Argues Against Scientific terchangeably in the daily routine"? Facts and Logic Should Society Be Allowed The New Atlantis writes, "The hy­ to Define Gender? pothesis that gender identity is an in­ nate, fixed property of human beings Has society decided that they are that is independent of biological sex different or not? In addition to this - that a person might be "a man point, it should also be noted that it trapped in a woman's body" or "a hasn't even been until the 21st century woman trapped in a man's body"- is that any major push was made to dis­ not supported by scientific evidence."3 tinguish the two terms, and most peo­ ple today do not agree with the Even some transgender advocates transgender ideology. Yet, it seems as acknowledge the lack of scientific if the majority of society believes that proof in support of transgenderism. the gender is malleable simply be- The Washington Post made this ob-

2https://www.differencebtw.com/diff 3https://www.thenewatlantis.com/pu erence-between-sex-and-gender/ blications/number-50-fall-2016 22 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r servation in an article entitled Biology personal and mental struggle, the is Not Destiny: Seeking a Scientific transgender suicide rates were incred­ Explanation for Trans Identity Could ibly high. About 50% of teenage boys do More Harm than Good. In this who suffer from this say that they article, Alex Barasch wrote: attempted suicide at some point in their lives, along with about 30% of "Both good science and good advo­ teenage girls, and about 42% of non­ cacy dictate that we're better off ac­ binary teens. 4 knowledging what we don't know about ourselves than overstating With this suicide crisis, the idea what we do. It doesn't help the has now been pressed that sex change LGBTQ community to pin our va­ operations will help lower the suicide lidity on what we might learn, if on­ rate and fix the identity crisis of ly we could scan the right brains or transgenders. However, there has been pinpoint the right genes - and if we no statistical change. In fact, those trust the volume of the frontal cortex who go through the surgery are 20x over what a person tells us about more likely to commit suicide than the themselves, we deny them their au­ general population.5 tonomy and their humanity. Rather Since the problem of suicidality than waiting for firmer biological has not been fixed either with sex footing, those who really want to changes or the acceptance of media, advance the cause should start by the question then should be asked, believing trans people when they "How do we fix it?" speak up about who they are." A Solution Transgenderism is thus defended by its advocates by asserting all one We can fix the problem in three ways: must do is just believe he/she is a 1.) We must accept the fact that male in woman's body or a woman in those who are biologically male a male's body! are male, nothing else (the same It should also be noted that it goes for women). wasn't until June of this year that the 2.) We must accept the principles of World Health Organization declared the Bible as being true and suffi­ that Gender Dysphoria (which was cient for life and godliness. previously called Gender Identity Disorder) was not a mental disorder, 3.) We must train our children by but purely a "sexual health condition." the basic principles of biology

Before this decade, it was widely 4 Statistics are taken from the Ameri­ recognized as being a mental disorder can Academy of Pediatrics. in which the individual is confused 5https://www. thepublicdiscou rse.co about who he/she is. Because of this m/2015/02/14305/ G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 23 and let them know and under­ appease the 0.6% of society that IS stand their gender based upon trans gender. their sex, showing them that they We must love every person in this are one and the same. world, a just as God did (Jn. 3:16), but 4.) We must teach our children to love does not mean that we must tol­ love and respect the word of God. erate error, even abominations. We must "reprove, rebuke and exhort with In the Bible, we find no evidence all Iongsuffering and teaching" (2 to support the transgender movement Tim. 2:4). and its concept that gender/sex is mal­ leable. From the example of Deuter­ onomy 22:5, in which the LORD says, "A woman shall not wear anything that pertains to a man, nor shall a man put on a woman's garment, for all who Gospel Gleaner Displays do so are an abomination to the LORD your God" to that of Paul's We will be promoting the Gospel instructions to the church at Corinth, Gleaner at several upcoming lecture­ that the men would not have the hair ships sponsored by churches and of a woman (1 Cor. 11), the Bible schools. Be sure to look for us. We shows that there is a clear and distinct would be happy to visit with you! line for men and women. Since every individual is "fearfully and wonderfully made" (Psalm 139:14) and since men and woman are The Sage of Jasper - created with their own body-types and Gus Nichols - ABiography appendages for the work in which God assigned them (Gen. 2:24), we by Scott Harp must honor every person in the bio­ Ten years in the making, and 43 years logical aspect which God created after the death of Gus Nichols, a biog­ them. raphy on his life is nearing a publish­ Conclusion ing date. This five-hundred-plus page volume promises to give the reader a Transgenderism is not in harmony birds-eye view into the life of one of with science or the Bible; and we can­ the 20th Century's most prolific and not contradict and/or deny this basic impactful preachers of the gospel of rule of biology that has been held Christ. Coming to Amazon.com and since the world began in order to ap­ other sales venues soon. pease the radical left and attempt to

24 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r Knowing about God or Knowing God

Ronald D. Bryant

The Bible is from God. "Knowing tion from God, it also reveals God. It this first, that no prophecy of Scrip­ is the only source of information and ture is of any private interpretation, instruction from God. Apart from it for prophecy never came by the will there is no such information or in­ of man, but holy men of God spoke as struction. they were moved by the Holy Spirit" God spoke in creation, and the (2 Peter 1:20-21 ). created realm came into existence. In Paul declared, "If anyone thinks that act, He is revealed as the creator himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let of all things, and the source of life. In him acknowledge that the things the life of the first man and woman, which I write to you are the com­ God is revealed providing them all mandments of the Lord" ( 1 Corinthi­ that was necessary to life, and to fel­ ans 14:37). lowship with Him.

He also wrote, "All Scripture is He is revealed as Sovereign, and as given by inspiration of God, and is compassionate provider. He is re­ profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for vealed in His dealing with Noah, with correction, for instruction in right­ Abraham, with Isaac, with Jacob, then eousness, that the man of God may be with the descendants of Jacob. He is complete, thoroughly equipped for revealed in delivering the nation of every good work" (2 Timothy 3:16- Israel out of Egypt, and in the giving 17). of the Law through Moses. He is re­ vealed in the promises and prophesies Three specific conclusions arise ofthe Old Testament. In and through from careful examination of the Bible, the Law and the prophets He predict­ and it can be affirmed: ed the coming of the Savior, His 1. The Bible claims to be the word of kingdom, and the new covenant. God. In the New Testament, God is re­ 2. Upon studying it, the Bible seems vealed in the life and work of His Son. to be the word of God. Jesus' life, mission, and ministry; His suffering and death had been predict­ 3. Upon the most thorough examina­ ed by the prophets in the Old Testa­ tion, the Bible proves to be the word ment- in the Law, the psalms, and the of God. prophets (Luke 24:44-49). Additionally, a study of the Bible establishes that it is not only a revela-

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 25 Three specific conclusions arise how we are to think about Him, we from a careful study of the record of will not come to know Him. the life of Christ: There is also this to consider: How 1. Jesus claimed to be the Son of God. can anyone express or manifest that which he does not possess? 2. In reading the record of His life, He appears to be the Son of God. How can one who does not possess faith manifest faith? How can one 3. In the most careful study of the who does not possess humility before record of His life, He proves to be the God express humility? How can one Son of God. who does not fear or reverence God All the Scriptures were intended of express fear or reverence for Him? God to inform, and to draw us to Him How can one devoid of adoration for in faith and obedience-in and God express adoration for Him? Fi­ through Jesus Christ and the gospel. nally, how can people commune with Of greater importance, they were giv­ God, if they do not actually know en to enable us to not only know Him? about God, but of greater moment, to There is this disturbing fact, in our know Him (cf. Hebrews 8:6-12; John daily lives, very few of us give our­ 17:3). selves to deep thought about God! What can we do, what must we do, Even in the worship assembly, we to move from knowledge about God, seldom give great attention to His to knowing Him? It is to be insisted presence or purpose! Even a casual that there is a way! We can come to glance at the customary order and know Him, and He desires that we do activities of our assemblies produces so! We can come to know what is more questions than answers. true about Him, and we can come to embrace each truth revealed. We can Arguably, many congregations and must come to not only accept but have cultivated to themselves some to meditate prayerfully upon each very bad habits, which serve the mo­ revealed truth, to the point of allowing ment but do not produce deep aware­ each truth to lead us to commune with ness of God, nor of the honor of being Him and yield to Him. in His presence.

Only when our mental and spiritual Questions: Why do we seldom thoughts come to be ruled by adora­ have a call to worship, yet, insist upon tion, reverence, and humility before prolonged announcements that are Him, will we be enabled to know already in hand in the bulletins? How Him. Until we allow the truth about many of the songs that we sing exalt Him to teach us what He is like and or actually praise God?

26 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r How many sermons are ruled by "And you will seek Me and find Me, the speaker's person and personality, when you search for Me with all your rather than the beauty of coming to heart" (Jeremiah 29: 13). know and honor God? How often is "For thus says the High and Lofty the assembly about us, and not about One Who inhabits eternity, whose God? Honestly, how much of our name is Holy: 'I dwell in the high and personal and corporate concern and holy place, With him who has a con­ effort is about communing with God? trite and humble spirit, To revive the Is there not cause for concern? Are spirit of the humble, And to revive the we vitally concerned with knowing heart of the contrite ones"' (Isaiah about God, and with knowing Him in 57:15). our fellowship? The following passages suggest that God is concerned for us; that He wants us to know Him:

THE NEW HEAVENS AND NEW EARTH (2) Relevant Passages to Consider Andy Erwin

With this article I intend to follow­ In addition to this, I would then up on the thoughts we introduced in like to state my convictions for what I our last issue concerning the Bible's believe to be the biblical doctrine of teaching of the new heavens and new the new heavens and new earth. It is earth (Isa 65:17; 66:22; 2 Pet 3:10-13; not sufficient merely to expose error Rev 21:1-2). in this regard, but we must also de­ I would like for us to study a few termine to elaborate truth. of the most often cited proof texts Acts 3:21 used by those who advocate the doc­ It is argued by restored creationists trine of a renovated earth. that Christ's regeneration is of cosmic As stated in the previous article, proportions and that this is also the for the doctrine of the renovated earth meaning of Acts 3:21. to receive such overwhelming support In his commentary on Acts, David among Evangelicals, surely we will Lipscomb, an avowed restored crea­ find a clearly stated passage in Scrip­ tionist, affirmed, "'The restitution of ture which teaches that Jesus died to all things' refers to the restoration of redeem the cosmos just as He died to God's order and rule on the earth, redeem mankind. which had been disturbed by the re-

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 27 belli on of man and the transfer of the Paul's statement in this passage is earth to the evil one" which would truly the centerpiece to the renewed occur at Christ's return. 1 earth doctrine. Observe: However, a full examination of the According to Romans 18:19-23, the text will show that the restoration be­ creation, including our bodies, was ing advocated by Peter pertains to subjected to the futility and bondage "turning away every one of you from of a fallen world. God subjected the your iniquities" (v.26), through the world to frustration in the hope of ministry of the Prophet/Christ (vv.22- liberating the creation from its 23), and the subsequent blessing for bondage. This world, full of its sin, all the families of the earth (v.25)- all violence and disease, is not the of which was to occur in ''these days" world God created. God's good cre­ (v.24). ation has been marred, but his re­ The "restoration of all things" cer­ demptive intent is to renew it .. .In tainly appears to refer to a spiritual the end, God will reverse the curse restoration of mankind and not a and renew the earth, living among physical restoration of the cosmos. his people just as he did in the Gar­ But, if we are wrong on this point, the den.3 restoration of God's order still does We ask, is this really what Paul is not imply the need for a renewed earth teaching? What is meant by "crea­ over a completely new earth. His or­ tion"? If the creation is referring to der can be restored regardless of the the earth, Peter (2 Pet 3:10-13) could newness of the earth involved. very well be describing its deliver­ Romans 8:21 ance. If Paul is speaking of the earth, this would obviously be anthropo­ On Rom 8:21, again David Lip­ morphic language, wherein the earth scomb believed, " ... then the whole is given human qualities through a creation will share this deliverance figure of speech known as personifi­ and be freed from the corruption and cation. mortality to which it has been subject­ ed by the sin of man. It shared the However, if the redemption of the corruption and mortality of man's sin, cosmos is under consideration, Paul's and will share his deliverance from statement does not necessarily imply a it."2 renovated earth. If it does so imply, why does this not apply to the sun and moon (Rev 21:23; 22:5)?

1 David Lipscomb, Commentary on the Acts of the Apostles (Nashville, lN: McQuiddy Printing Co., 1896), 54. 3 John Mark Hicks and Bobby Valentine, 2 David Lipscomb and J.W. Shepherd, Ro­ Kingdom Come: Embracing the Legacy of mans (Nashville, lN: Gospel Advocate, 1943), David Lipscomb and James Harding (Abilene, 153. TX: Leafwood Publishers, 2006), 186. 28 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r Why does a "new earth" require our resurrection and the changing of renewing of the old; yet, "new heav­ this present physical body into a glo­ ens" require the annihilation of the rious spiritual body likened unto old and creation of something that is Christ (see 1 Cor 15:35 ff.; Phil 3:21; altogether new? (See our previous 1 John 3:2). It is not unusual for Paul article for a discussion of the word to speak of Christians as a "creation" "new" in the OT and NT.) (Col 1:15), specifically a new creation Mounce sees this inconsistency (2 Cor 5: 17). and argues, "John is not supplying his The suffering and even persecution readers with information about future which Christians face in this life can­ astrological changes but setting forth not be compared to the pleasures, joy, by means of accepted apocalyptic and glory to be revealed "in us" imagery the splendor that will radiate (v.18). His creation (the church) cer­ from the presence of God and the tainly earnestly expects and awaits the Lamb.4 resurrection when our new bodies However, we ask, what function shall be revealed. As Christians, we would these heavenly bodies serve if groan within ourselves and eagerly not to give light? The sun and moon await the resurrection - i.e. the re­ have been placed to mark time, and demption of the body (v.23). Thus, the time will cease to function in eternity redemption of the body, not the cos­ - a point which is repeated by John mos, could very well be the topic of (Rev 22:5).5 6 discussion. Herein is perhaps the greatest in­ Ephesians 1:9-10 consistency of the renewed earth theo­ and Colossians 1:19-20 ry. Renewal is argued for the earth In Eph 1:9-10, Paul mentions "the under the premise that God will not fullness of the times" when God will destroy anything he has created. Yet, gather together "all things in Christ, God also created the sun, moon, and both which are in heaven and which stars and renewed creationists permit are on earth-in Him." In Col 1:19- their destruction. 20, Paul writes about the reconcilia­ Paul could also be writing about tion of things in on earth and in heav­ something else, perhaps even about en. These passages are also used as proof texts for renewed creationists. 7 4 Robert H. Mounce, The Book of Revelation In these passages Middleton believes, in The New International Commentary of the "Paul does not myopically limit the New Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1997), 395-396. 5 Simon J. Kistemaker, Revelation (Grand 7For examples see: J. Richard Middleton, A Rapids, MI: Baker, 2001 ), 573. New Heaven and a New Earth (Grand Rapids, 6 To this point Harrington agrees that John is MI: Baker Academic, 2014), 157-159.; N.T. here describing the heavenly Jerusalem. Wilfrid Wright, Surprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, J. Harington, Revelation in Sacra Pagina (Col­ the Resurrection, and the Mission ofthe Church legeville, MN: Liturgical Press, 1993 ), 218. (New York: Harper Collins, 2008), I 04. G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 29 efficacy of Christ's atonement to hu­ speech is also used by Paul (see Rom manity. Rather, the reconciliation with 15:26; 1 Cor 4:9; 11:32; 2 Cor 5:19) God effected by Christ's shed blood is and we believe this is the case in these applied as comprehensively as possi­ passages. ble to all things, whether things on In the epistle to Ephesus, Paul earth or things in heaven. "8 speaks of the "mystery of His will, F.F. Bruce also connects these according to His good pleasure which three passages (Rom 8:21; Eph 1:9- He purposed in Himself, that in the 10; and Col 1:20), stating: "all crea­ dispensation of the fullness of the tion is to share in the fruits of Christ's times He might gather together in one redemptive work ... So here, the uni­ all things in Christ, both which are in verse has its place in God's secret heaven and which are on earth-in purpose, now revealed."9 Him" (1 :9-1 0). Again we ask, is this really Paul's Allowing Paul to be his own com­ message? Or, is this interpretation the mentator, we turn to Eph 3:3 ff., and consequence of reading into the text we find that the "mystery" under con­ the renewed creation theory? Could it sideration, which was being revealed not be true that Paul is herein utilizing to Paul at that time - in the fullness of a figure of speech known as a meton­ times - was "that the Gentiles should ymy? be fellow heirs, of the same body, and In a metonymy of the subject, the partakers of His promise in Christ subject is put for the adjunct, and in through the gospel" (3:6). this case, the place or the thing con­ This is the "fellowship of the mys­ taining it, is put for the thing which is tery" between Jews and Gentiles- all being contained. 10 creation - in the church, according to Examples of metonymy of the sub­ His eternal purpose (3:8-13). ject, wherein the world is put for its Moreover, the "redemption of the inhabitants is a figure often employed purchased possession," has been by John (see John 1:10; 3:16, 17; sealed with the Holy Spirit, and thus 6:33; 7:7; 14:17, 31; 17:21; 1 John has a guarantee of an inheritance 2:2; 3:1; 5:19). But, the figure of (1:13-15). The redeemed possession has been 8 J. Richard Middleton, "A New Heaven and purchased by the blood of Christ and a New Earth: The Case for a Holistic Reading of the Biblical Story of Redemption," Journal sealed by the Holy Spirit; neither of for Christian Theological Research I I (2006): which can be said about the cosmos, 87-88. 9 F.F. Bruce, The Epistles to the Colossians, but both can be said about the church to Philemon, and to the Ephesians (Grand Rap­ (Acts 20:28; 1 Cor 3:16-17). ids, MI: Eerdmans, I984), 261. 10 E.W. Bullinger, Figures ofSpeech Used in In Paul's epistle to the Colossians, the Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book those things in heaven and earth being House, 2003), 567. 30IGospel Gleaner reconciled to God and receiving peace Cor 15:23-24). He will initiate the with God are thus reconciled "through general and universal resurrection of the blood of His cross" (1 :20). For the dead (John 5:28-29; 1 Thess 4:6 whom did Jesus shed His blood? Paul ff; 1 Cor 15:23 ff). He will then make tells us in Acts 20:28 and in Eph 5:25 a judgment upon humankind, thus, that Christ's blood bought the church. bringing the kingdom into its eternal We -the church - have redemp­ state (Matt 25:31 ft). tion through His blood (Eph I :7). Je­ Jesus will come in power and glory sus experienced death for every man (Mark 13:26; Luke 21:27; 2 Thess (Heb 2:9) and will save those who 1:7). His coming will be sudden and obey Him (Heb 5:8-9). Individuals are unexpected, preceded only by normal reconciled to God by His blood and human activity (Matt 24:37-39, 42-44, the word of reconciliation. In this 45-51; Acts 1:7). sense the "world" is reconciled to God The second coming will be visible (2 Cor 5:19). to every eye (Acts 1:11; Rev 1 :7). His We can provide scores of passages angels will accompany Him (Matt which teach that Christ shed His 13:39-49; 16:27; Mark 8:38; 2 Thess blood for our sins. Renewed creation­ 1:7). The spirits of those now in Par­ ists are going to have to provide at adise will also return with the Savior least one passage in Scripture which (1 Thess 4:14; Jude 14). These spirits clearly teaches that Jesus died to re­ will be given their new spiritual bod­ deem the cosmos. These passages ies at the resurrection. The mortal (Acts 3:21; Rom 8:21; Eph 1:9-10; bodies which are in the graves shall be and Col 1:20) simply do not provide changed into spiritual bodies in the the proof their doctrine requires. resurrection (1 Cor 15:35-54; Phil 3:21; 1 John 3:2). Our Lord's Return We will hear the shout of the arch­ Seeing that the heavens and the angel and the last trumpet will sound earth will be destroyed, burned up, (John 5:28; 1 Cor 15:52; 1 Thess and dissolved with fervent conflagra­ 4: 16). His appearing is revealed only tion at Christ's return (2 Pet 3:10-13), as a single event. according to His promise (cf. Isa 65: 17; 66:22), we look for a new At His appearing, the dead in heavens and a new earth ( cf. Rev Christ will be raised first, those living 21: 1-2). We look for the new heavens will be caught up to meet Him in the and earth to appear after our Lord's air ( 1 Thess 4: 16-18). No saved per­ return and final judgment on mankind son will be left behind on earth. The (Rev 20:11-15). Christ's return should world then will be destroyed (2 Pet be viewed as literal. Upon His return, 3:10-13). No wicked person will be Paul wrote, "then comes the end" ( 1 left on earth as there will be no earth. The only thing to remain from this G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 31 world will be the citizens of the king­ The justice and peace foretold by dom (Dan 2:44; I Cor I5:24, 52; Heb Isaiah can only be experienced on this I2:26-29). earth under a new covenant and king­ After His return, all nations shall dom inaugurated by the Servant, the be gathered before His throne of Christ of God. However, even then it judgment (Rev 20:II-I5). Judgment is experienced in a limited sense. will be according to His word and God's justice and peace will not be according to our deeds (John I2:48; 2 experienced in its fullest sense until Cor S:IO; Ecci I2:I3-I4). All will be judgment is made final and the new judged (Rom I4:IO-I2). earth is brought down (Rev 2I: I ft). Death and Hades (Rev 20: I4 ), the Only by understanding the "al­ devil and his angels (Matt 25:4I), and ready but not yet" tension of the king­ all who are disobedient to Christ (I dom can we grasp the correlation be­ Thess I:7-9; Rev 20:I5; 2I:8, 27) will tween Isaiah, Peter, and Revelation. be cast into the lake of fire which is Christians are now blessed as citizens the second death - i.e. eternal pun­ of God's kingdom (Col 1:13; Heb ishment in hell (Mark 9:48; Rev I2:25-28); but we are not yet blessed I4:II). as fully as we will be in heavenly state of the kingdom (Matt 25:34). The righteous and the redeemed throughout the ages will witness a In a limited sense we can already new heavens and new earth coming appreciate the concept of a "new down as a bride adorned for her hus­ heavens and new earth" - a new order band. God will dwell among them. In - even a new order in and under the this celestial New Jerusalem, the in­ rule of Christ, His covenant, and His habitants will never again know sin, kingdom. Yet, not yet, have we truly sickness, or sorrow. experienced the new heavens and new earth which shall appear after the final The New Heavens and New Earth judgment. The Isaiah passages speak of salva­ We look for a new heavens and a tion and of a new creation. We would new earth according to His promise. agree with Chisholm that these pas­ Christians will dwell upon a new earth sages speak of a transfonnation which - i.e. heaven - for eternity, as de­ must occur in human society, where scribed in Rev 2I-22. Christ has gone justice and peace will prevail. 11 The to prepare this place (Jn I4:I-6), it question remains, when, where, and shall be presented as an adorned bride how will this justice and peace pre­ after the final judgment, and there we vail? shall live with the Godhead and all the redeemed for ages without end. 11 Robert B. Chisholm, Jr., Handbook on the Prophets (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2002), 135. 32 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r The West Fayetteville Church of Christ

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Return Service Requested A Letter of Significance from Franklin Camp to Willard Collins, p. 28 March-April 2019 Gospel Gleaner For the lord, His Word, and His Church

Tomorrow's Preachers Today Articles Featurinf( Some ofToday's Preachinf( Studen ts

The Consequences of Pleasing Men Brandon Foresha p.2 Obeying Men or God as a Preacher

Are You Content? Garrett English p.4 Only God Provides Tru e Contentment

Evangeli st, Minister, Preacher Matt Langfield p. 7 Jesus Provides the Pe1ject Example for a Preacher

Un ity Is the Antidote fo r Division Brandon Blankenship p. 10 Lessons Learned from th e Church at Corinlh

Living in No Man's Land Adam Cox p. 14 Our Citizenship Is in Heaven, Not on Earth

The Kaine Greek and the Sin of Homosexuality Jackson Erwin p. 17 Understanding Key Words and Terms

Also in this issue

Brian Kenyon Common Misconceptions about the Preacher p.21 Dave Smith A Captive Mind p. 25 Ronald Bryant The Destinies of the Nations p. 26 Bill Brandstatter Continuing Steadfastly p. 31 "The Cbm"Ches of Christ Greet Yon" (Romans 16:16)

The West Fayetteville Church of Christ is pleased to bring you the Gospel Gleaner. Are you familiar with the churches of Christ? Have you ever attended our services before?

Faithful churches of Christ desire to return to the New Testament and to be the church of the Bible. In the Bible, we find that the church is the assembly of all those who have been called out of the darkness of sin by obeying the gospel. These souls are added by God to the spiritual body of Christ, which is His church (Acts 2:42, 47; Ephesians 1:22-23).

The church belongs to Christ. It is His church. We, therefore, seek to honor Christ as our Lord in our worship, teaching, and daily walk.

One can be added to this sacred assembly and spiritual kingdom by hearing the gospel preached (Romans 10:17); believing the facts concerning Christ as revealed in the gospel (John 8:24); repenting of sin (Luke 13:3, 5); confessing faith in Christ (Romans 10:9-10); and by being baptized into Christ (Romans 6:3; Colossians 2:11-13; Galatians 3:26- 27) to wash sins away by the blood of Christ (Acts 22:16; Ephesians 1:7).

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Correspondences, news and notes, and article considerations can be sent electronically to [email protected]. The West Fayetteville Church of Christ reserves the right of discretion in deciding which correspondences, news, notes, and articles to publish. Tomorrow's Preachers Gospel Gleanet• Todav Voi.31+No.2 ~

WRITERS FOR THIS ISSUE Andy Erwin

In this issue of the Gleaner we will Brandon Blankenship be featuring a few of the students in Denver, Colorado some of our schools of preaching. These schools are operated by various Bill Brandstatter i congregations and overseen by their Marion, Illinois respective elders. The schools we are featuring have a good reputation for Ronald Bryant being sound in their teaching and Huntsville, Alabama graduating good students of the Word. Adam. Cox Some of you may recall that we Cantonment, Florida had a similar issue last year which met with good results and seemed to be Garrett English greatly appreciated. We are happy to Austin, Texas :;. encourage the young men who have written for this issue and others like Andy Erwin them. We should be thankful that such Fayetteville, Alabama men are training to be our ministers. Jackson Erwin They are dedicating their lives to serv- Elkttbethton, Tennessee 1 ing their Lord and His church. These young men and others like them will Brandon Foresha be the ones who teach and covert our ; Moundsville, West Virginia children and grandchildren. They will t be there to comfort and counsel us. Mel Futrell They will conduct weddings and fu- Birmingham, Alabama nerals. They will visit us in times of Brian Kenyon need to bring us cheer. Lakeland, Florida The effectiveness of their respec- tive ministries will depend greatly Matt Langfield upon us - our behavior, our words, Knoxville, Tennessee and our actions. Let us love, encour- Dave Smith age, teach, and inspire them. "Let him Rochester, Illinois who is taught the word share in all I good things with him who teaches"

' ,._ ~ ~ (Galatians 6:6). Gospel Gleaner 11 '1'81~ (~()NSI~(I1JI~N(~I~S ()I~ PJ.. I~ASIN(. III~N

Brandon Foresha

Wisdom is found in Paul's state­ Balaam the free-will to decide for ment to the Christians in Galatia: "For himself what he would do (Num. do I now persuade men, or God? Or 22:9-21 ). God was not pleased with do I seek to please men? For if I still Balaam's decision. The angel of the pleased men, I would not be a bond­ Lord was sent to kill Balaam for his servant of Christ. But I make known treachery against God (Num. 22:22- to you, brethren, that the gospel which 23). This is the result of pleasing men was preached by me is not according rather than God! to man" (Gal. 1:10-11). When Saul decided to overstep his When it appears as if everyone is authority as king of Israel and sacri­ happy with the work of their minister, fice on behalf of his army, he was it might be time for that minister to pleasing men. Saul was from the tribe look at the object of his labors. The of Benjamin; priests from Levi were consequence of pleasing men is that the only people who could make sac­ God is no longer the focus of all that rifices on behalf of Israel! Saul had a you do. When people are pleased, the lapse in judgment when his desire to world is pleased. In many instances, please his men outweighed his desire Christ did not attempt to please every to please his God (1 Sam. 13:8-12). person He met! Our Lord taught His The punishment from God for such disciples that the world would hate transgression was the kingdom depart­ them because of His sake (John ing from Saul's family (1 Sam. 13:13- 15:18-19). 14). When one remembers the pun­ ishment for Nadab and Abihu for Balaam, a prophet of God, is a tampering with God's plan in worship great example of what can happen (Lev. 10:1-2), the mercy shown by when a person decides to please men God to Saul is remarkable! Saul rather than God. Balak, king of the learned a lesson of the consequences Moabites, sent messengers to Balaam of being a people-pleaser and all must requesting that he come and curse the learn from his mistake. children of Israel. God spoke to Ba­ laam and told him not to go with these The decision is simple for a Chris­ princes of Moab. Balaam sent the tian. One must serve God rather than messengers away, but more returned man throughout the longevity of their and Balaam showed a desire to go lives (Acts 5:29)! The Lord requires with them. The Lord had already giv­ complete service to Him and His en Balaam His answer, but He gave, kingdom; anything less in unaccepta-

21Gospel Gleaner ble. Three different men came to Jesus Brandon Foresha was born in West Christ and showed a desire to be in Virginia and raised in Northeast Ohio. His service. All three times Jesus told He also attended Freed Hardeman them to count the cost of being His University and earned a BA in Histo­ disciple (Luke 9:57 -62). Matthew is ry. Brandon's father, Michael Fore­ the shining example of what one sha, is a Gospel preacher and a gradu­ should do when Christ beckons some­ ate of the West Virginia School of one into His service (Matt. 9:9). When Preaching, where he at one time one realizes that Christ suffered death taught. on a cross for him, it should motivate He met his wife, Amber, at Gulf Coast him to serve Jesus with the remainder Bible Camp in southern Mississippi. of his lives (Gal. 2:20)! Amber and Brandon have been happi­ God has always asked man to love ly married for three years and are Him with all of his heart, soul, and looking forward too many more years mind (Deut. 6:5; Matt. 22:36-37). together. Many of the rulers of the Jews be­ Brandon is currently enrolled at the lieved Jesus to be the Christ, but be­ West Virginia School of Preaching in cause they loved the praise of men Moundsville, West Virginia, where he more; they rejected Him (Jolm 12:35 - is studying to be a full-time preacher. 43). Pleasing men will only last a short season, but pleasing God shall last for eternity.

West Virginia School of Preaching

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Gospel Gleaner 13 ARE YOU CONTENT?

Garrett English

"The sleep of a laboring man is honor in a world without God. The sweet, Whether he eats little or much; idea begins with a broad testament to But the abundance of the rich will not the vanities of riches in 5:8, but in permit him to sleep" - Eccl. 5:12 5:10 he begins describing the specific (NKJV) vanities of riches. He attests to the limited nature of riches and how they Solomon wrote Ecclesiastes in the only amount to something pleasing to style of prose; thus, interpreting it is the eyes. In Ecclesiastes 5:12 Solo­ often difficult. To understand any mon indicates that riches had become passage in the book, we must under­ the cause of anxiety which had then stand the message of the book. The resulted in the loss of much sleep due message of Ecclesiastes can be found to the constant worry that comes with in the emphatic, final two verses the abundance of riches. which Solomon slowly built up to. Each chapter expounds upon the vain When Solomon remarked, "The treasures of life, and Solomon repeat­ sleep of a laboring man is sweet," he edly discovers "all is vanity" under reveals to us that those who work hard the sun (Eccl. 12:8). for their family are able to sleep with­ out worry or care because they have Solomon's final words of the book provided for their family and are satis­ conclude the whole thought and bring fied. The man who labors is satisfied clarity to the messages within the with the wages given to him, knowing book. He speaks to the vanity of rich­ God has provided for him the necessi­ es, honor, knowledge, material things, ties oflife (Matt. 6:31-34). and objectifYing women. In the end, Solomon concludes that life without When Solomon mentions "the God is worthless no matter what you abundance of the rich," he begins the try to replace Him with! contrast between the laboring man and the rich man who does not labor Now that we know the message of much, if at all, for his wages. Because the book, we must find how each of the riches described as something chapter applies to the overall message, limited to pleasing the eyes in the end, but especially for our purposes, chap­ it seems the riches come with worries ter five. Throughout the book, Solo­ and anxieties that "will not permit him mon makes contrasts between wisdom to sleep." and folly (i.e. foolish living). In the Perhaps Solomon in all his riches context of chapter five, Solomon had experienced this firsthand! Per­ speaks of the vanity of wealth and haps he longed for the sweet sleep he 41Gospel Gleaner used to have when he labored in his Ga rrett English is 25 years old, and youth as a shepherd; instead, Solomon grew up in Keller, TX. He married the likely stayed up through anxiety­ former Brittany Word--of Devine, filled, restless nights th inking about TX--in December of 2016. He intends the abundance of material things he to work full -time in the ministry of had as the K ing of Israel, never satis­ God's Word upon graduation. fied.

Solomon's wisdom reveals to us that all the things sought by a man who does not fear God or keep His commandments are meaningless. In a worldview without God, man's wis­ dom proves truly foolish. Riches and abundance of material things are vain because they do not make us content. Efforts of seeking happiness through riches wi ll not be rewarded. Only God provides true contentment!

Are you content or always wanting more? Do you lose sleep focusing on acquiring more or are you happy with what yo u have?

Mankind a l- way:> finds himself a fool compared to God. Let us seek a worldview focused on pleasing God by being content with what He has given us!

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GI Gospel Gleaner Evangelist, Minister, Preacher

Matt Langfield

We look to Jesus as the perfect the Samaritan woman what the gospel example of Christian living. He lived looks like. In John 4:7, Jesus began by a life that was always obedient to the simply saying to the woman, "Give Father's will, never gave into the Me a drink." She was surprised to be temptations of the devil and was will­ spoken to by a Jewish man and ques­ ing to suffer greatly to seek and save tioned why He would ask her for a the lost (John 8:29; Matt. 26:42; Eph. drink (v. 9). 6:11; Luke 19:10). In Matthew 28:19, Jesus then took the opportunity to Jesus delivered the Great Commis­ tell her of a better way to live and of sion, saying, "Go therefore and make "living water" that leads to "everlast­ disciples of all the nations, baptizing ing life" (vv. 10-14). Jesus demon­ them in the name of the Father and of strated the gospel by first starting a the Son and of the Holy Spirit." Faith­ conversation-in spite of racial, eco­ ful Christians strive to obey this nomic, political and cultural differ­ command. ences-and then by giving the woman While we commonly preach "go hope for a better, eternal life. therefore and make disciples," there is Second, Jesus provided the perfect also the sometimes difficult task of example of a minister by considering reaching the lost, which falls between the needs of the woman and guiding the two. We look for more effective her to the great blessings that come and efficient ways to share the gospel through obedient living. Jesus in­ with the world around us, but perhaps structed the woman, "Go, call your we should consider simply looking husband, and come here." This again to the perfect example of Christ. demonstrated Christ's willingness to In John chapter 4, we read the fa­ discuss the problems with which she miliar account of Jesus and the Sa­ struggled, an area in her life that she maritan woman at the well. While the needed to change. passage shows us the humanity of The woman's answer, "I have no Jesus and the love he had for the husband," revealed her recognition of lost-even those beyond the walls of sin, or at least error, in her life (v. 17). Jerusalem-it also demonstrates Jesus The care and love that Jesus showed as the perfect example of an evange­ for the woman is evident by His will­ list, minister and preacher. ingness and desire to help her improve First, Jesus provided the perfect her life, which led to some very point­ example of an evangelist by showing ed doctrinal questions. Gospel Gleaner 17 Finally, Jesus provided the perfect Matt Langfield is a 1999 graduate of example of a preacher by providing Freed-Hardeman University and a the instruction that the woman needed current student of the Southeast Insti­ to hear in order to find salvation. As tute of Biblical Studies. He and his the conversation unfolded, Jesus told wife Julie have two children, Maylie the struggling Samaritan woman, (4) and Adler (2), and look forward to "God is Spirit, and those who worship graduating in May of this year and Him must worship in spirit and truth" beginning a full-time work in minis­ (v. 24). Jesus told the woman what try. she "must" do. The pattern that Jesus provides begins with evangelism, transitions to ministry, and results in preaching. '~SOUTHEAST: We need to follow the perfect ex­ ., '=•• ' lNSTITUTE OF JJIBUCAL STUDlES ample of Christ as we "go therefore and make disciples." We should con­ 6612 Beaver Ridge Road sider following the pattern that we Knoxville, TN 37931 read in John chapter 4 by first striving (865) 691-7444 to be Christ-like evangelists. We need to show the lost in the world around www.wedopreaching.com us what the gospel looks like. We must be willing to start simple con­ versations with people, regardless of our social similarities or differences. We should share with people the hope Southeast Institute of a better life on this earth and an of Biblical Studies eternal life in heaven. Ministry is as necessary today as it was for Jesus as He sat near that well in Samaria. 45th Annual Lectureship

Ultimately, we must preach. We April 28 - May 1, 2019 must teach God's commands and ex­ plicitly teach what is necessary for Tbe Sto.y of Scripta.. e any soul to find salvation. While it From Creation to Consummation may be tempting at times to skip a step or focus on only one portion of Hosted by the seeking and saving the lost, if we sin­ Karns Church of Christ cerely desire to be Christ-like, we Knoxville, Tennessee should follow Christ's perfect pattern.

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Gospel Gleaner 19 Unity is the Antidote for Division

Brandon Blankenship

"Now I exhort you, brethren, by the to the problem of division and it is not name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that as complicated as one would imagine. you all agree and that there be no di­ Unity is the antidote that the church visions among you, but that you be must use to solve the problem of divi­ made complete in the same mind and sion. In this particular verse, Paul in the same judgment" (1 Corinthians gives us the key principles that must 1:10) (NASB). be applied in order to allow unity to Can a physical family be success­ trump division. ful despite having division present on The first of these divine principles a normal basis? Imagine for a mo­ that will be emphasized for the pur­ ment, a family that is continually in­ pose of unity is the fact that the volved in strife, quarreling, and con­ Church can avoid division if we "all flict and logically consider whether or agree." This phrase is also translated not they are productive. Furthermore, "that you all speak the same thing" imagine whether or not unity is some­ (ASVINKJV /KJV). thing that can be obtained in this par­ The Corinthians were not in ticular situation. Most would agree agreement, nor were they speaking the that achieving unity in a family that same things. It can clearly be deter­ continues to possess these characteris­ mined that the Corinthian church was tics is something very far-fetched. divided, simply by reading chapters Consequently, why would the 11-14, which exposes how they were church of Christ be any different? We conducting themselves in the assem­ as Christians are well aware that God bly. This demands the question, could requires unity in His church, neverthe­ their worship possibly have been pro­ less, it is not uncommon to find divi­ ductive and successful despite so sion to be prevalent in many congre­ much division being present? Imagine gations. I suppose one could simply if you will, a successful sports team. speak the obvious and say, "it is sinful Can they function properly and be to have division in the Lord's productive despite division being pre­ church!" sent or do they need to "all agree" on However, this statement in and of the ultimate goal (success) in order to itself only identifies the problem win a championship? without offering a solution. Fortunate­ Likewise, if the church wants to be ly, in 1 Corinthians 1: 10, Paul through productive and successful, we must the Holy Spirit offers a divine solution seek agreement. This does not mean

10 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r that every individual is going to al­ competing with one another (3:11-23), ways agree on every single detail and having division with regard to the decision in the church. However, it Lord's supper, and being arrogant does mean that everyone should agree with regard to spiritual gifts (13-14). on divine truth and doctrinal decisions Thus, clearly, these Corinthians were simply because we should agree with certainly known for their division. God. However, Paul is stressing to them to Furthermore, we should agree that have unity and to avoid divisions at all unity with regard to doctrinal truth is cost. As mentioned already, Paul ob­ imperative simply because that is viously was not naive enough to think what God wants (John 17:20-23). that the Corinthians could agree on Therefore, Paul is not suggesting that every single detail in every situation. every member of the congregation Nonetheless, a hearty effort to avoid must be in agreement with regard to divisions should encourage them to be what color carpet should be chosen united on all doctrinal matters and to for the auditorium. seek to compromise on all non­ essential matters. Nevertheless, since these decisions do arise, unity should demand that It seems a modem day example of they work diligently toward being how the church should seek to have patient with one another while work­ "no divisions" is the differences be­ ing out a solution that the majority of tween non-institutional and main­ the congregation can accept and be stream congregations. Although some wise enough to understand that some­ may satisfy their own preferences by thing as trivial as the carpet color cer­ having this division, biblically speak­ tainly is not essential enough to divide ing, God does not seem to be pleased. the congregation. Just as the Corinthian church fell short, the church today is sometimes The next divine principle that Paul guilty of finding more reasons to di­ uses to instruct the Corinthian Church vide rather than to unite. with regard to unity is to seek to have "no divisions." What better way is May we put aside our "pet peeves" there to avoid division than simply and seek to be unified on the truth of seeking to have "no divisions?" With God's word and bind where God that being said, one can read the book binds and loosen where God has not of first Corinthians and determine that bound. Ultimately, the principle that the Corinthians were more interested must be bound is the fact that there in seeking to have division rather than should be "no divisions." unity. The final divine principle that Paul We learn about the Corinthians uses to help the Corinthian Church elevating certain men (1:11, 12), become more unified is to be "made complete." It is interesting that Paul Gospel Gleaner 111 not only instructs them to be "made certainly be unified in the way that complete," but relates how they can God intended. accomplish this. He instructed them to In conclusion, if we as a church be of the "same mind and in the same fail to apply these simple principles, it judgment." will inevitably lead to quarreling and However, it is clear that these Co­ division as it did in the Corinthian rinthians were not of the "same mind church (1 Corinthians 1:11, 12). Divi­ and same judgment" on several issues. sion should not even be mentioned We can see that they were not on the with regard to Christianity because we same page with regard to unity (1:10- should all be fully united in Christ (1 13), marriage (chapter 7), Lord's sup­ Corinthians 1: 13). Christ is head of per (chapter 11 ), and especially spir­ the church (1 Corinthians 11:3; Colos­ itual gifts (chapters 12-13). Sadly, sians 1:18; Ephesians 5:23) and Chris­ these Corinthians were divided in tians should submit to His authority various areas and did not even seem to on all spiritual or doctrinal matters. recognize it as a problem. Interesting­ Since heaven is our goal, we should ly enough, it is sometimes easier to all be willing to be united together to recognize the need for others to have ensure that one another gets there. unity than it is for our own selves. If we follow Paul's inspired in­ Take for instance two surgeons structions by seeking to be in agree­ that are performing surgery on you, ment, avoiding division at all cost, would you want them to be unified? It and striving together to be complete is evident that they must be united (1 Corinthians 1:10), the church will with the "same mind" and the "same undoubtedly be unified and be more judgment" with regard to their deci­ productive in evangelizing to a lost sions and actions that will be affecting and dying world, which will result in you as a patient. If not, your health rescuing more and more souls from will be at risk and you could suffer hell. great consequences from their divi­ sion. Likewise, the church as a whole Brandon Blankenship is 33 years old can certainly suffer the consequences from Chapmanville, WV. He is mar­ of division. Christians must be willing ried with a family of 5 (2 boys and 1 to reason together and seek to be girl). He is currently a sophomore at "complete." Being complete requires Bear Valley Bible Institute. of this that we use biblical judgments rather year. than our own opinions with regard to spiritual matters. If we as the church seek to be made complete, we can

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Gospel Gleaner 113 Living in No Man's Land

Adam Cox

1914 marked the beginning of one trench. These trenches did a much of the deadliest human conflicts in more effective job of protecting sol­ human history. Because of the number diers from death. However, the goal to of countries involved in the war, it win theses battles was to cross over would soon become known as "The that open field to capture the enemy's Great War" and would be fought on trench. Doing this meant that the sol­ multiple continents. dier had to leave the safety of the trench to cross the open field to cap­ One of the reasons why the war ture the opposing army's trench. As a would become so bloody was due to result, this open field that was often the invention and usage of new mili­ filled with waves of barbwire was the tary weapons. The use of aerial bomb­ main location where soldiers would ings, mustard gas, and the increased die, and it became known as "No utilization of machine guns resulted in Man's Land." higher casualty rights for both sides. In conjunction with these new weap­ While soldiers wanted to win the ons, both sides relied on older military battle there was not always a sense of tactics that further increased casualty eagerness to cross into No Man's rates. For instance, most armies had Land because of the dangers that not yet moved away from the strategy awaited them. It was essentially a of having their soldiers stand in lines place where no man wanted to be across a field and fire at one another. stuck in, yet the images of No Man's This strategy was typically thought of Land would become some of the most as being the respectable way to fight a well recognized images ofWWl. battle, but these new weapons showed Cettainly, we recognize that a how outdated that type of military physical No Man'~ Land does not combat was. exist today as it did on many of Military commanders then at­ WWI's battlefields, but we certainly tempted to figure out a new strategy to should recognize that a spiritual No fight the war. Thus, from 1915-1916, Man's Land exists today. That No WWI battlefields saw an increased Man's Land is the world! It is a place usage of trenches to protect their sol­ where the Christian can struggle to diers. In many cases, the opposing maintain his spiritual life because of armies would each have a series of the contents of the world as John trenches dug and constructed with an states, "For all that is in the world, the open field in between each army's lust of the flesh, and the lust of the 141Gospel Gleaner eyes, and he pride of life, is not ofthe eousness has always been opposed to Father, but is of the world." (1 Jn. the will of God no matter the dispen­ 2:16). sation that one lives in. Yet, God has called Christians to It is the spiritual No Man's land fight against the wickedness of the that no obedient Christian should want world as Paul states, "For we wrestle to be stuck in as Paul states in verses 1 not against flesh and blood, but and 5 that living according to the against principalities, against powers, principles of the world means spiritual against the rulers of the darkness of death. In addition there is a creator this world, against spiritual wicked­ and sustainer of the immorality that ness in high places." exists in this spiritual No Man's Land. So, in a sense, Christians are stuck Paul points out that this is the in No Man's Land, but just as the sol­ prince of the power of the air - a ref­ diers in WW1 created trenches to pro­ erence to Satan. Satan is certainly the tect themselves from bombings and adversary as Paul states later on in the machine gun fire, Christians have a letter to put on the whole armor of trench that offers protection from the God so that the Christian can with­ world: the Church. In Ephesians 2, stand the craftiness of the devil's at­ Paul essentially addresses the nature tacks (Eph 6:11 ). of that spiritual No Man's Land, its After verse 3, Paul devotes the rest effect on mankind, and the blessings of the chapter illustrates the blessings of being in the church - the trench of being in the trench - the church. that protects us from No Man's Land. Paul states that we are raised up to­ In verses 2-3, Paul addresses the gether and made to sit together in essence of the world and the author of heavenly places. According to verses all that is wrong in the world. Paul 11-13, Paul notes that this was not notes that the world walks a particular always the case as the Jews and those course that can be easily identified. that proselytized to Judaism held the Typically, when we think of the word special distinction of being called "course," we think of a path that a God's children. runner might follow. Yet, the call of Christ to be a part However, the Greek word that is of his body is an invitation extend to translated course is "aic.Ov" meaning both Jew and Gentile and that through an extended period of time or age. Christ the New Testament church was Paul's stating that the way of the composed of individuals of different world has always been identifiable races. In addition, Paul notes that we since sin entered through Adam in the are shown the riches of his grace in Garden of Eden. Thus, the nature of verse 7. Those riches are elaborated the world has not changed; unright- further in verses 19-20. G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 15 The Christian has hi s citi zenship in heaven and thus has the hope of eter­ nal life if he or she is obedient. Thus, being in the trench - the church - il­ lustrates the result of man's accepta­ tion of God's grace. Ultimately, why would the Christian desire to live ac­ cording to the principles of that Spir­ itual No Man's Land where spiritual death is an inevitable reality.

Adam Cox is a first year student at NWFSBS. He is a graduate of Missis­ sippi State University with a Bache­ Great Doctrines of the Bible lor's and Master's degree in History. Upon graduation, he plans to preach Robert Waggoner for a small congregation while teach­ $22.95 ing college History. His father is the Order from Gospel Light Books preacher at Verona church of Clu·ist (Verona, MS). (870) 379-2412

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16 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r KOINE GREEK AND THE SIN OF HOMOSEXUALITY

Jackson W. Erwin

In the previous issues of the and although not everyone is go­ Gleaner, we have examined certain ing to be supportive, this is about areas that are amid heated debates learning to accept everyone for within 21 81 century American society. who they are. 1 We have examined the subjects of This is a matter of extreme im­ abortion and transgenderism, but now portance, as it dictates whether the attention will be turned to the popular LGBTQ community should be includ­ subject of homosexuality. This is one ed as faithful members of the church issue in which the Bible is so clear in and without any need of repentance of its admonition against the practice, their same-sex marriages before obey­ and yet so many people, using bad ing the gospel. It determines whether and illogical argumentation, support gay preachers and church leaders it. should be in the pulpits and becoming Lipscomb University, which has active members in the church. Most strayed into liberalism for several importantly, this issue determines years now, celebrated National Com­ whether the Christian faith has been ing Out Month in October of last year. wrong in its interpretation of passages In their own news service Lumination such as 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, 1 Timo­ Network, Abbi Scott wrote: thy 1:10 and Romans 1:26-27. In recognition of National Coming While there are many (albeit bad) Out Day, Lipscomb's LGBTQ+ arguments provided by LGBTQ advo­ students painted the Bison rain­ cates, one that will be focused on pri­ bow colors, standing around it marily in this article is that the two from early morning until evening Greek words cipO'Evox:oT'l'al (arseno­ on Thursday in support of the koitai; literally "male-bed") and LGBT community on campus. ~-taAax:ol (malakoi; literally "soft") are Throughout the day, doughnuts too unclear for one to claim that they were handed out, faces were are condemning homosexuality. The painted and conversations took words are found together in 1 Corin­ place. 'This is about the freedom thians 6:9-10, in which Paul wrote, to be who you are, especially on "Do you not know that the unright- this campus,' student Aria Bartley said. 'There's a difference be- tween acceptance and supporting, 1 http://luminationnetwork.com/lipscomb­ students-celebrate-national-coming-day/ G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 17 eous will not inherit the kingdom of only used by the Apostle Paul. Its God? Do not be deceived Neither literal meaning is "male bed." No fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adul­ one knows what Paul was refer­ terers, nor homosexuals, nor sodo­ ring to but, if he wanted to denote mites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor same-sex love, there were other drunkards, nor revilers, nor extor­ words available to him that he tioners will inherit the kingdom of could have easily used. The word God" (NKJV; emphasis added). The translated "effeminate" in I Corin­ KJV renders the phrase as "nor effem­ thians 6:9 is malakoi. It means inate, nor abusers of themselves with "soft." It's used elsewhere in mankind," (a translation which might Scripture to denote soft clothing. be misleading) and the ESV translated (Matthew 11 :8) In this context it the two as reading, "nor men who probably refers to people of soft practice homosexuality" while also morals, or people who lack cour­ containing a footnote stating, "The age. In any case, to translate it as two Greek terms translated by this "effeminate" in a pejorative way phrase refer to the passive and active would contradict Paul's assertion partners in consensual homosexual of the equality of men and women acts." in Christ. (Galatians 3:28).2 However, despite the well-trained This is the general argumentation Greek scholars who translated this provided by the LGBTQ community passage as referring to homosexuality, and will thus be the basis of this arti­ LGBTQ advocates hold these transla­ cle's refutation. Many things can be tions as being inaccurate and biased, noticed in Maneker's argumentation stating that their meanings are too that raise what might be called "doc­ unclear to be used as texts condemn­ trinal floodlights." First, the word ing gay sex and marriage. One such "homosexual" never appears in any advocate, Jerry Maneker, commented "manuscript" because the manuscripts on these two Greek words, writing: of the New Testament were written in Koine Greek! Of course, this term The word "homosexual" never ap­ won't be found verbatim in the manu­ pears in any biblical manuscript, scripts of the New Testament, but the as it was a word coined in the late Greek word for the sin will be found. 19th Century and first appeared in an English Bible translation, the Secondly, when he states that the Revised Standard Version, in "Greek word used for 'homosexual, ' 1946. The Greek word used for arsenokoitai, is an obscure word that "homosexual," arsenokoitai, is an obscure word that doesn't seem to 2 https://www.gaychurch.org/homosexuality­ appear in any other ancient writ­ and-the-bible/some-talking-points-on­ ings, and may very well have been christianity-and-homosexuality/ 18 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r doesn 't seem to appear in any other gint, in referencing same-sex rela­ ancient writings, and may very well tions, uses the same terminology of have been only used by the Apostle Paul in I Corinthians 6:9 and I Timo­ Paul," shows that this is not one who thyi:IO. has done his homework on the sub­ It is also important to realize why ject. Paul used this terminology in the two The word was used by other men passages. He was a trained scholar of both in secular literature and in the the Old Testament in a Greek­ Bible itself by Jews! In the Septuagint speaking society (cf. Acts 22:3; Phil (LXX), the Greek translation of the 3:4-6; Gal. I:13-14). He knew about Old Testament written in the 2"d cen­ the Septuagint and used it as his text tury B.C., the term is found in Leviti­ when quoting from the Old Testa­ cus I8:22 and 20:I3. ment. In Leviticus I8:22, our English Likewise, Timothy, a preacher of translation reads, "You shall not lie the gospel and the church of Corinth, with a male as with a woman. It is an who had members associated with abomination," an obvious passage Judaism knew of the Septuagint and refuting homosexuality. However, in its teachings. Therefore, when Paul the Greek Septuagint, Maneker's ac­ used this language, he did not use cusation is denied when it says, "xctl some mysterious, unused and un­ (l.E'rCt l£pcrEVO~ OU XOt(1.'Y)6~crrJ X0£'")'11 known word, but one that was known yuvcux6~ ~o£A.uy(1.ct yap ECT'rtv" (em­ of by students of the Bible and em­ phasis added). ployed by them when speaking of the sin of homosexuality. The two words "ap

The Bible today is as clear as it ever was, and we can trust both the

3 Bauer, Walter, et al. A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Chris­ tian Literature. 4th ed., University of Chicago Press, 1952, p. 488. 20 I G o 5 p e I G I e a n e r tommon Mismntepnons about the Preather

Brian R. Kenyon

New Testament writers predicted 15, 18, 20; Jn. 10:2, 11 [twice], 12, 14, that some would depart from the faith ( 1 16; Eph. 4:11; Heb. 13:20; 1 Pet. 2:25). Tim. 4:1-3). One needs only to look at The word is usually translated the contemporary religious world to "shepherd," and it never refers to the role know that these predictions stand true. of a preacher. In Ephesians 4:11 (the Thus, everyone must examine his or her only place "pastors" is found), preachers life and beliefs to be sure that they are in are the "evangelists" and elders are the harmony with God's word (2 Cor. 13:5). ''pastors." As one considers the Scriptural role of a The verb form poimaino occurs preacher, it is easy to form non-biblical eleven times (Mt. 2:6; Lk. 17:7; Jn. views based upon denominational errors, 21:16; Acts 20:28; 1 Cor. 9:7; 1 Pet. 5:2; the portrayal of "preachers" in Jude 12; Rev. 2:27; 7:17; 12:5; 19:15). Hollywood, and/or the expectations of This word is always translated in the an unlearned and selfish society. KJV by some form of the English verb The Bible, however, gives distinct "feed" or "rule." This word is used twice roles for Gospel preachers (see First and to describe the work of elders (Acts Second Timothy and Titus). Any 20:28; 1 Pet. 5:2), but is nowhere used to conception of the role of a preacher that describe the role of a preacher. does not harmonize with the Bible is a Some may think that because Peter misconception. Some of the more was told by Christ to "Feed [Tend, NKJ; common misconceptions that this writer Shepherd, NAS] my sheep" (Jn. 21: 16) has observed are examined below. that the preacher has authority to The Preacher Is Not the "Pastor" "shepherd" the flock.

One common misconception about While it is true that a form of the the preacher is that he is "the Pastor." verb poimaino is used in this command, This iargely comes from the erroneous it must be remembered that Peter held a doctrines of many denominational position that was unlike any preacher churches. The term "pastor" (translated today. Peter was also an apostle. He was from the Greek word poimen) is in the given the "keys of the kingdom of Bible (Eph. 4:11 ), but it is often heaven" (Mt. 16: 19), and, along with the misapplied. This Greek word occurs other apostles, he was told, "Whatsoever eighteen times in the Greek text from ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in which the KJV is translated (Mt. 9:36; heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose 25:32; 26:31; Mk. 6:34; 14:27; Lk. 2:8, on earth shall be loosed in heaven" (Mt. G o s p e ! G I e a n e r I 21 16:19; 18:18). Peter was also an elder (1 plurality of elders to oversee the proper Pet. 5:1). The fact of the matter is that functioning of a local body of Christ elders, not preachers, are the ones who (Phil. 1:1; 1 Pet. 5:2). These men are to are responsible for "shepherding" the meet God-given qualifications (1 Tim. flock. However, even in denominational 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9), and they have no circles, people do not know the authority to change God's revealed will. Scriptural role of elders. In His wisdom, Christ authorized Contemplating the denominational special servants called "deacons" (Phil. idea of "the Pastor," brings up a second 1: 1). These men must also meet God­ common misconception about the role of given qualifications (1 Tim. 3:8-13), and a preacher among some members of the their task is to work in conjunction with church. the elders in whatever capacity is deemed expedient to help the church The Preacher Is Not the "Head­ Honcho-In-Charge" function better (c£ Acts 6: 1-7). In His wisdom, Christ authorized Some people commonly mistake the role of the preacher/evangelist. These the role of the preacher to be that of the men also must meet God-given "head-honcho-in-charge." People qualifications (1 Tim. 4:12-13, 15-16; consider the church to be "his church" 5:22; 2 Tim. 2:15, 22; Titus 2:7-8, etc.), and/or consider his word to be the final and their work focuses upon teaching, say. These "preachers" can be heard preaching, and evangelizing (1 Tim. 4:6; saying, "My members ... ," or "I have a 2 Tim. 2:2; 4:1-5; Titus 2:1-6, etc .. ). The brother who ... " preacher is not given the responsibility to The true church of Christ, however, "run" the church. No single man on has no earthly head. Jesus is the one and earth is given that responsibility. In His only Head of the church (Eph. 5:23; Col. wisdom, Christ made every member of 1: 18). No preacher, no elder, no deacon, His body important to the proper no member, no man, or no woman has functioning ofthe whole (1 Cor. 12:13- the right or the place to be head of the 31 ). Every person added to the church is church. important, and every person has a role to Although some people act as fulfill! However, a misunderstanding of though they are the head of the church the responsibilities of every member of (c£ Diotrephes in 3 Jn. 9), that position the church of Christ leads to other belongs only to Deity! The Bible reveals misconceptions about the role of a how the church is to function (c£ 1 Cor. preacher. 14:37; 2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Pet. 1:3). The Preacher Is Not the "Official Visitor" of the Church Within Christ's divine doctrine is the organization of the church. In His Some people commonly mistake superior wisdom, Christ authorized a the role of a preacher to be the "official 22 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r visitor'' and/or "tab keeper" of every The Preacher Is Not (Necessarily) a member of a congregation. While it is Lazy Man Who Cannot Find a Job true that many local preachers usually Anywhere Else have more of an opportunity to visit Some people think that preaching is members than the average member of a ''piece of cake" job in which the the local church, this does not mean that preacher gets paid for only four hours of others have no responsibility in this area. work (one hour each for Sunday The fact is that all Christians, morning Bible class, morning sermon, whether preachers, elders, deacons, evening sermon, and Wednesday night husbands, wives, singles, etc., are Bible study). Sadly, some preachers (in responsible for visiting the sick and/or the States and overseas) are lazy. other members in need (c£ Mt. 25:34- However, when a preacher is truly doing 46; Jas. 1:27). the "work of an evangelist" (2 Tim. 4:5), he cannot be lazy. While it is true that a preacher is his "brother's keeper," like every other If preaching is such a "cushy" job, Christian should be, it is extremely then why are not our preaching schools difficult (if not impossible) for one overflowing with students? Instead, person to keep up with all the needs and some of the few drop out because the concerns of every member of a demands are so high. Studying is hard congregation. That is the reason why work(2 Tim. 2:15). every member is important and needs to Preaching and teaching is easy be involved in the work of the church compared to the time and energy it takes (Eph.4:15-16). to study. If the reader does not think this It is not wrong to look to the is so, then why is it so hard to find Bible preacher for an example in visiting, class teachers? Why do not more because he should be a good example members fill-in for the preacher when he (Rom. 2:21-23; 1 Cor. 11:1; 1 Tim. is gone? 4:12). Not only must a preacher prepare However, it is wrong and for lessons, he is also on ''twenty-four detrimental to the growth of the local hour call." At any moment he may be church to expect a preacher to do the called upon to conduct a fimeral. He may work of the elders, the deacons, and/or be involved in one-on-one Bible studies every member of the church. in the evening or counseling a couple who plan on marrying. Remember, each member is important to the proper fimctioning of When others talk about going home the body (1 Cor. 12:13-31). Every after work to relax, watch their favorite person added to the church is important, TV show, go to the ball game, or go and every person has a role to fulfill! fishing, the conscientious preacher

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 23 realizes he still has work to do and often These have been given to help us realize has to sacrifice these times of leisme. the importance that God has placed upon Does this mean he is bitter and angry? each member in the local chLu·ch doing Absolutely not! !lis or her part. The conscientious preacher loves The hwnrn1 body fimctions at its best what he does no matter what the cost or when evety member is healthy a11d the inconvenience because he serves the involved. The spiritual body of Christ's Master and knows that il'om Him his chmch is no exception. When each reward will be worth it all (2 Tim. 4:6-8 member fulfills his or her God-given cf. Mt. 6:19-21). role, the chmch will grow (cf. Acts 6:7). Conclusion Until then, growth, at best, wi ll be minimal. May the Lord help every one There are other misconceptions of us to recog~lize , appreciate, and fulfill about the role of a preacher that could be his or her role in the chmch of Christ! mentioned but will not be in tllis rnticle.

Brian R.. Kenyon, Director 1807 . outh Fludd:·• Vt.'nue, Lakeland, FL 33803 f'sop.net p•·epn•·e@}fs p.ue t 863 ~ 683 - 4043 • 1 ibl -bn:-; I. Bnlnnc d. No tuition chnt·g . • unliti d fncn l t. with prt=>nching l'i n< • Two . en r :o II . · e 1 v .l 1 r r:1 m ( o s m ~ l r hour gl"Lluuliun L' "' JLdr m <:'nl)

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24 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r A CAPTIVE MIND

Dave Smith

As you go through the course of a As we continue considering the day, what is the main focus of your mind, notice what Paul has to say to mind? If you are a child of God, the the saints in Rome when contrasting emphasis should be upon Him and the flesh and the mind. In Romans 8 those things that are spiritual. Consid­ we read the following: "For they that er the following thoughts found in are after the flesh do mind the things God's Holy Word (all scriptural refer­ of the flesh; but they that are after the ences are from the NASB unless oth­ Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to erwise indicated). be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. When Jesus is asked by a lawyer Because the carnal mind is enmity "Teacher, what shall I do to inherit against God: for it is not subject to the eternal life?", He responds by saying law of God, neither indeed can be. So "What is written in the Law? How then they that are in the flesh cannot does it read to you?" The lawyer an­ please God" (vs. 5-8 KJV). True life swered, "You shall love the Lord your and peace is found when our minds God will all your heart, and with all our set on the spiritual. your soul, and with all your strength, and with all you mind; and your If we truly want to please our neighbor as yourself," to which the Heavenly Father, there must be a Savior replied "You have answered change, a transformation of our mind, correctly; do this and you will live" which is what we find in Romans 12:2 (Luke 10:25-28). Take note that we where is says "And do not be con­ should love the Lord God with all our formed to this world, but be trans­ mind. formed by the renewing of our mind, so that you may prove what the will of In the apostle Paul's second letter God is, that which is good and ac­ to the Corinthian brethren, he suc­ ceptable and perfect." Our lives are no cinctly points out to them (and us) longer our own, but they belong to "We are destroying speculations and Jesus and we need to look to His self­ every lofty thing raised up against the less attitude (Galatians 2:20; Philippi­ knowledge of God, and we are taking ans 2:1-8). every thought captive to the obedience of Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:5). Is We would do well to take to heart obedience to the Savior holding your what Paul has to say to the Christians thoughts captive? in Philippi as he drew that letter to­ ward its closing: "And the peace of

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 25 God, which surpasses all comprehen­ Christ, and the proclamation of His sion, will guard your hearts and your gospel. Many follow a very different minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, breth­ agenda, for they have become reli­ ren, whatever is true, whatever is gious customers, and have abandoned honorable, whatever is right, whatever the will and purpose of God. is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever The work God calls His people to is of good repute, if there is any excel­ do has not changed. Yet, in too many lence and if anything worthy of praise, instances awareness of and convic­ dwell on these things. The things you tions regarding that work are weak. have learned and received and heard The indifference, detachment, and and seen in me, practice these things, resistance to the will of God, presently and the God of peace will be with on display are not new. It is easy to you" (Philippians 4:7-9). identifY some with the church at So where do you find your Ephesus, that "left its first love' (Rev. thoughts, your mind, your heart? Are 2:4), or with the church at Laodicea in they on the things of this world or on their state of apathy, their being luke­ things above (Colossians 3:2)? warm (Rev. 3:I5ff). While the world is moving away from God, and is hostile toward the The Destinies truth of God, it is not enough for those who would truly serve God to simply hold-services, or fret a little and wring ofthe Nations their hands. Incredibly, some pseudo­ Ronald Bryant leaders are urging believers to "court the world," to learn what the people of How would you describe where we the world really want and work to are as a nation? How would you de­ honor that. scribe the people of this age? Long ago indifference toward the things of As the churches become more and more worldly, and society becomes God gave way to hostility. more and more hostile toward God, The downward spiral described in the undeniable fact is that those who Romans I: I8-32, is on-going in our would serve God must desire and de­ age; and many have reached the level termine to return more fully to the will of "the reprobate mind." (v. 28). This and purpose of God, and do His will, undeniable fact should serve to open no matter the cost. It remains that be­ the eyes of those who claim to know longing to God is the imperative, and and honor God, to the incredibly im­ necessitates eamest effort to bring portant work that is theirs - the great hearts and souls captive to do God's necessity of their faithful imitation of will (II Cor. I 0:5).

26 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r God's purpose for His people has While Christ is the excuse for their not changed. Christ's commission acts of devotion, He is not the reason! remains the same: "Go make disci­ Many know next to nothing about ples," "Go preach the gospel to every worshiping God in spirit and in truth, creature" (Matthew 28: 19-20; Mark nor are they concerned with doing so. 16:15-16). God's people are the light They have even less concern about of the world, and they must let their serving Him in reverence and godly light shine. God's people are the salt fear? They know nothing of biblical of earth, and there is great tragedy faith or obedience, yet call themselves attached to their losing their saltiness believers. (Matthew 5:13-16). God's plan for the What about those that are religious, saving of man requires the greatest of but are not Christ-centered, that are passion and compassion on the part of not servants of God? What is true the people of God. God's message is about them? They may impress some not vague counsel nor empty appeal. of the people of world for a moment; What is at stake is the eternal destiny however, they do not and cannot rep­ of eternal souls. God has no other plan resent Christ! In speaking to such for the saving of mankind. pretenders in His day, Jesus said, The professionals in contemporary "These people draw near to Me with religious groups have long champi­ their mouth, and honor Me with their oned a program of friendly fellow­ lips, but their heart is far from Me. ship, the solving of surface problems, And in vain they worship Me, teach­ and tutoring their "clients" to accept ing as doctrines the commandments of themselves and their failings in the men." (Matthew 15:8-9). context of religious trappings. What happens when those who call Challenging people to take an hon­ themselves the people of God ignore est look at their purpose in life, in or neglect the directive of Jesus gave view ofthe will of God, is regarded as to "go make disciples"? How many intimidating, even inappropriate. Call­ worship assemblies or classes attend­ ing people to faith in Christ and alle­ ed will suffice to make up for the dis­ giance to Him is treated as secondary, regard of the charge to preach the while self-worth and obtaining a word to the people ofthe world? healthy self-concept are treated as What happens when the people of primary. God are content to simply meet and It is the case that many who attend conduct services and enjoy time to­ assemblies of worship and are looked gether in fellowship, but never truly upon as believers, are not believers at labor to teach and convert the sinful all! Their allegiance is to the leader and erring? or to the group, not to Christ.

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 27 A Letter of Significance from Franklin Camp to Willard Collins

Mel Futrell

[The letter below from Franklin Camp ( 1915-1991 ), to his old college roommate Willard Collins (1915-2007), and dated December 15, 1970, was given to me by sister Dot Perry in early 1999 just weeks after my family and I moved to Bir­ mingham for me to serve as the preacher for the Shades Mountain church of Christ. Dot, who died last year, was serving in 1970 as brother Camp's secre­ tary. Dot told me she typed the letter and then after Franklin read it, made four changes. Three were corrections of misspelled words and the other was the ad­ dition of the word "are" in the second paragraph. The retyped/corrected version was then mailed bearing the same date. I asked sister Dot upon receiving the letter why she had kept the original. Her response? "It seemed significant!" And with that I completely agree. I would want you to know that before pub­ lishing this letter I called David Camp, the youngest son of Franklin, and re­ ceived his permission to put it before the brethren. Please read through the letter noting both the kindness, and conviction of brother Camp and then I'll have some final thoughts at the close. - M.F.]

Mr. Willard Collins David Lipscomb College Nashville, Tennessee

Dear Willard:

This is one of the most difficult letters I have ever had to write. We have known each other since the fall of 1934. I count you among the special friends that I have. You have always been a source of encouragement to me. I remember well when you asked me to speak regularly on the Lipscomb lectures. While I doubted my own qualifications for such a tremendous responsibility, I accepted because of my respect and appreciation for you. I have sought each time I have been on the lectures to face up to the problems facing the church and to discuss them in the light of the Bible and to speak the truth in love. It has opened doors for me to openly discuss the dangers of Modernism and Liberalism in practically all of the southern states. I am grateful for having had this opportunity and feel

28 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r that at least in a small way I have helped the church realize the dangers of this deadly evil. I have tried to inform everyone, especially our young preachers, what all of this is about and have encouraged them to stand up and be counted in this battle. I have received numerous letters from young men thanking me for my efforts and their promise to stand firm. Now I am faced with the matter of standing up or else betraying my plea to these young men and denying by action what I have pleaded for with all of my being. In view of some that are on the lectures this year, I ask to be taken off. I have no desire to even suggest who Lipscomb has on its lecture programs as it is not my place to select men. I do feel, however, that I have the right to decide whether I want to be included along with some that have been in the lead in trying to carry the church down the road to Modern­ ism. I have tried to make myself think that I would speak the truth on the sub­ jects assigned to me and would not be responsible for what others may have done or what they would say. But I think the time is here when we must decide whether we are going to encourage these men or leave them alone. I cannot in good conscience lend any encouragement to them. I tried to get brethren to see that it was a mistake to continue to use Pat Boone. Yet, brethren "fiddled" while he "boiled inside against the truth" and he is seek­ ing to "fiddle" with the Pentecostals and burn the church down. It is my judge­ ment that a failure to deal with this situation has given him an opportunity to do more damage to the Lord's church than anyone in our lifetime. Neither one of us will live long enough to completely overcome the damage he has wrought. I do not want to be a part of anything that will allow others to do this same thing. There are good men on the lecture program but there are also some that both of us know have been on the far-out side in this battle against liberalism. It is these that I do not want to lend my influence to. I think it is the responsibility of the schools to refuse to give these men a platform to continue to use their influence in destroying the church. These men are not willing to take the Bible and try to prove by it they are right. They insist on doing what they want to do and do not care what good brethren that believe the Bible think about them or their doings. I think you know me as well as anyone. I have never sought the limelight. I have dedicated my life to trying to know the will of God and preaching it as best I could. I have rejoiced in your success as a preacher and have told hundreds what a blessing it was to me in our association at Lipscomb. There is no one that I have more respect for than you. This letter is not to suggest that I think you are not sound in the faith. I have never known you to teach anything that I thought was unsound, I do not question in any way your faith in the Bible. My personal feelings for you are what they have always been. I hope your feeling G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 29 toward me will remain unchanged. The Bible is under attack as never before in our lifetime. The church of the Lord is the last line of defense for it. The Protestant world has already thrown in the towel. I have a grave fear that many in the church are ready to join them. I cannot. Whatever time I may have left to live, I expect to use that time in trying in my small way to defend the Bible against all attacks of Modernism and Liber­ alism. It is here that we are going to either win or lose the battle. I expect to do what I can to help win it. It is because of the seriousness of the situation that I do not want to encourage some that have joined the enemy. You did not tell me, but I happen to know that an attempt was made by some at Lipscomb to try to get you to take me off the lectures two or three years back, and you refused to do so. I am deeply grateful for your confidence in me and trust that I shall always be worthy of your confidence. This has added to the difficulty in making this decision. I have not made it in haste but have prayed about it and discussed it with others.

Sincerely, Franklin Camp

[Author's Note: Franklin Camp was the second preacher for Shades Mountain, however he was the first "full-time" preacher here serving from 1962-1972. His influence is still felt in the congregation through a few members still living and worshipping with us that knew him then. I'm thankful for the privilege of preaching at a congregation where brother Camp once served in that same role. I can't help but believe that as bothered as he was at the direction David Lip­ scomb College/University was heading then, that he would be bowled over by where they are today. The latest episode being their apparently friendly disposi­ tion toward the LGBTQ movement on the Lipscomb campus. In multiple ways, from this letter alone, we see the farsightedness of Franklin Camp relative to a number of issues facing the church then and now. In closing, I would like to echo a statement from brother Camp in the next to last paragraph: "The Bible is under attack as never before in our lifetime." This of course raises the question for us and the church that belongs to Christ in this generation, "Will we be as committed as he was then to 'standing up' and help­ ing others 'realize the dangers' that the church is facing today?" My heart's desire and prayer to God is that we will. Let us fight the good fight of the faith and lay hold on eternal life (1 Timothy 6:12)! - M.F.] 30 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r CONTINUING STEADFASTLY

Bill Brandstatter

One of the marvelous statements They continued steadfastly in about the early church is that they fellowship. The actual Greek states, "Continued steadfastly in the apostles' "the fellowship." There is a fellow­ doctrine, in fellowship, in the break­ ship that is unique to Christians and ing of bread and in prayers" (Acts the church. The word "fellowship" is 2:42 NKJV). As they did then, so a very special word. We use it far too must we also do now. Let us look loosely in our religious vocabulary. briefly at what they emphasized. We talk about a "fellowship meal" They continued steadfastly in the and "fellowship building." But in the apostles' doctrine. Who are "they"? New Testament was very specific. This refers to those who heeded the John helps us with the specific nature word spoken and were baptized (Acts of fellowship by stating, "If we walk 2:41 ). This would be the three thou­ in the light as He is in the light, we sand that are mentioned. have fellowship with one another, and The doctrine that they continued the blood of Jesus Christ His Son steadfastly in did not originate with cleanses us from all sin."(l Jn. 1:7). the apostles, but is that which the The word "fellowship" in the orig­ apostles taught and preached. These inal language means a joint participa­ men were inspired by God (2 Tim. tion, common, sharing, and commun­ 3:16, 17). ion. If a person is not walking in the Paul indicated that the things he light, I have no fellowship with that wrote were the commandments of person. Often we think that fellowship God (1 Cor. 14:37). They wrote what is association. But it is more than that. they were inspired by God to write. Fellowship is not just a place we For that reason, the early church con­ are at, it is a position we take. What is tinued in that doctrine. Without teach­ my position with Christ? Am I walk­ ing no one can be saved (Jn. 6:45). ing in the light as Christ is in the Experience won't save anybody. light? I cannot have fellowship with Testimony won't get a person to someone who is not. I might associate heaven. What matters is the doctrine with someone who is not walking in that is received and obeyed (Rom. the light. But my goal should be to get 6: 17). A person must obey a teaching them in the light so that I can be in to be saved. That teaching is found in fellowship with them. the pages of the New Testament. It is They continued steadfastly in the the "apostles' doctrine." breaking of bread. To what is this G o s o e I G I e a n e r I 31 referring? Some say an ordinary meal. Supper took place on the first day of However, later on in the same section the week. of Scripture there is a distinction They continued steadfastly in made that indicates an ordinary meal. prayers. The early church was a pray­ In Acts 2:46, we read: "So continuing ing church. We see it here and other daily with one accord in the temple times throughout the New Testament and breaking bread from house to history book of Acts. When persons house." Here is the ordinary meal. were appointed for certain tasks in the The term "breaking bread" here early church, prayers were offered. In means simply eating together. How­ Acts 6:6 we read "Whom they set ever, in Acts 2:42 we have the phrase before the apostles; and when they "breaking ofbread." had prayed, they laid hands on them." This refers to the Lord's Supper. Then in Acts 13, when the church There is also the word "the" that be­ at Antioch sent out Saul and Barna­ gins the phrase in Acts 2:42. This def­ bas, Luke records, "Then having fast­ inite article indicates it was a particu­ ed and prayed, and laid hands on lar type of "breaking of bread." This them, they sent them away."(Acts phrase is sandwiched in between other 13:3). spiritual exercises. When elders were appointed in Therefore, it is logical to conclude Lystra, !conium, and Antioch, we it is the Lord's Supper. Similar word­ read, "So when they had appointed ing is used by Luke in Acts 20:7 when elders in every church, and prayed he notes, ''Now on the first day of the with fasting, they commended them to week when the disciples came togeth­ the Lord in whom they had be­ er to break bread." There is in this lieved."(Acts 14:23 NKJV). There are verse and in Acts 2:42 a principle of other instances also where the early grammar. Part of something is put for church prayed. Paul summarizes it by the whole. "Breaking of bread" is put stating, "Pray without ceasing."(1 Th. for the entire practice of the Lord's 5:17). Supper. May we be as devoted as the early In this also is included the fruit of church and continue steadfastly in the the vine. We use this in everyday life. apostles doctrine and fellowship in If I were to tell you I was going to breaking of the bread and in prayers. start my car, you understand what is When we are as devoted as they were involved in the process although I we will grow, the church will grow only stated one part of it. It should and God will be glorified. also be noted that Acts 20:7 that the breaking of bread that is the Lord's

32 I G o s p e I G ! e a n e r The West Fayetteville Church of Christ

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Sunday Evening Worship: 5:00 pm

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Return Service Requested Lipscomb University's Breach of Trust- A Reaction p. 31

May-June 201 9 Gospel Gleaner Fot' the lol'lt His Wol'lt and His Chu1·ch

Examining English Bible Translations The Pros an d Co ns of Some Populnr E11g lish Versio11s

Dav id Hester The King James Version p. 2

John Board The New King James Version p. 5

Roger Shepherd The New American Standard Bible p. 8

David O'Connell The New International Version p. I I

Denny Petri ll o The English Standard Version p. 16

Andy Erwin A Summary of Thought on Bible Translations p. 20

Also in this issue Is Scriptural Worship a "Core Belief' fo r Lipsco mb Steve Gibson p. 24 Un iversity? "The Churches of Christ Greet You" (Romans 16:16)

The West Fayetteville Church of Christ is pleased to bring you the Gospel Gleaner. Are you familiar with the churches of Christ? Have you ever attended our services before?

Faithful churches of Christ desire to return to the New Testament and to be the church of the Bible. In the Bible, we find that the church is the assembly of all those who have been called out of the darkness of sin by obeying the gospel. These souls are added by God to the spiritual body of Christ, which is His church (Acts 2:42, 47; Ephesians 1:22-23).

The church belongs to Christ. It is His church. We, therefore, seek to honor Christ as our Lord in our worship, teaching, and daily walk.

One can be added to this sacred assembly and spiritual kingdom by hearing the gospel preached (Romans 10:17); believing the facts concerning Christ as revealed in the gospel (John 8:24); repenting of sin (Luke 13:3, 5); confessing faith in Christ (Romans 10:9-10); and by being baptized into Christ (Romans 6:3; Colossians 2:11-13; Galatians 3:26- 27) to wash sins away by the blood of Christ (Acts 22:16; Ephesians 1:7).

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Andy Erwin, Editor

Correspondences, news and notes, and article considerations can be sent electronically to [email protected]. The West Fayetteville Church of Christ reserves the right of discretion in deciding which correspondences, news, notes, and articles to publish. '>7'' Inside this Issue Gospel Gleaner

Vol. 31 • No.3 Andy Erwin

WRITERS FOR THIS ISSUE In this issue of the Gospel Gleaner we will be critiquing a few of the most popular English translations of the Bible. You will John Board notice that we are doing our best not to pro­ Elizabethtown, Kentucky mote one translation of the Bible over an­ other translation. Our aim in this issue is to present the pros and cons of each version in ~ Andy Erwin a fair and balanced way. If a particular ver­ Fayetteville, Tennessee sion has a unique quality, our desire is to ,, highlight it. If that same version has some Steve Gibson flaws, we wish to note them. Our objective is to give our readers some history and some Nashville, Tennessee 1 understanding of the differences between the

~- various translations and why these differ­ David Hester ences exist. It is up to each student to handle the word accurately (2 Timothy 2: 15). Montgomery, Alabama You will also find in this issue an article written by Steve Gibson concerning the r David O'Connell "core beliefs" of present-day Lipscomb f. Rogersville, Alabama University as compared to the founding ' principles and desires of the school as stated Denny Petrillo in David Lipscomb's hand written deed in which he gave his farm to the school. Denver, Colorado No one can read brother Lipscomb's wishes set forth in the deed of his farm to Roger Shepherd the Nashville Bible School (predecessor to Montgomery, Alabama Lipscomb University) while knowing the actions and teachings of the present board,

""""'"""""''"""'"'""""""""...... "'"'"'"""""~-- ...... c....;,;;--- ...... ' administration, and Bible faculty and con­ clude that his wishes are being honored. I believe you will find their actions to be in breach of the trust of the Lipscomb family and in violation of the deed he penned so many years ago.

Gospel Gleaner 11 AReview of the Kina James Version David Hester

In our day and time, there is a mul­ The KJV contains errors. The tiplicity of English translations of the translation has Isaiah saying, "But Bible. Some of them are excellent; wild beasts of the desert shall lie some have definitive problems; and there; and their houses shall be full of some are (for lack of a better term) doleful creatures; and owls shall dwell pitiful. I do not claim to be an expert there, and satyrs shall dance there" on translations; Rodney Cloud, my (I sa. 13:21 ). Further, it has the prophet main PhD Professor and Dean of the declaring, "The wild beasts of the Turner School of Theology, fits that desert shall also meet with the wild description perfectly. However, I do beasts of the island, and the satyr know enough to make clear distinc­ shall cry to his fellow; the screech owl tions (or, as clear as I can make them). also shall rest there, and find for her­ self a place of rest" (lsa. 34:14). In my short time on this earth, per­ haps no translation has been more In Deuteronomy 33:17, the transla­ vilified and lauded than the King tors have Moses proclaiming, "His James Version. I won't get into the glory is like the firstling of his bull­ details; others can do a far better job ock, and his horns are like the horns than me. I also won't recount the his­ of unicorns: with them he shall push tory of the making of the KJV (as the people together to the ends of the fascinating as it is); I urge the reader earth: and they are the ten thousands to learn all you can on that. It's a re­ of Ephraim, and they are the thou­ warding study. I'm fully aware of all sands of Manasseh." the shortcomings in the KJV. And, I Job is made to say, "Will the uni­ well know those who think the KJV is corn be willing to serve thee, or abide somehow the original Bible used by by thy crib? Canst thou bind the uni­ the Lord. corn with his band in the furrow? Or The fact is that the KJV is a trans­ will he harrow the valleys after thee?" lation. The scholars who were in­ (Job 39:9-1 0) volved in the process were not in­ Three times in the Psalms-22 :21, spired of the Holy Spirit. Indeed, no 29:6, 92:10-David mentions the uni­ translators are. Only the writers of corn. Isaiah does not escape it, either; Scripture can make claim to that. The "And the unicorns shall come down Scriptures themselves are indeed fully with them, and the bullocks with the inspired of God, and inerrant, as far as bulls; and their land shall be soaked they are correctly translated.

21Gospel Gleaner with blood, and their dust made fat stick" passages those erring preachers with fatness" {lsa. 34:7). would use was 1 John 3:9. Our breth­ ren had arguments to answer them, to The perceptive reader knows that be sure; yet, it does not help matters the two beasts referred to in the KJV when a translation contains fatal error, are mythological animals. They do not which the KJV does. exist, and have never existed. They were inventions of man. Yet, the KJV Having said all of that, I was mentions them as if they are real. The reared on the KJV. I memorized actual animals referred to are the wild Scriptures in KJV prose. When I think goat and wild ox, respectively. One of Scripture, it's still in KJV style. might think this is trivial; but, consid­ Mind you, I have numerous transla­ er this. Our society is more biblically tions in my library. Yet, there's some­ illiterate than ever. If one is inclined thing about the majesty of the prose of to not believe Scripture, and he comes the KJV that continues to enthrall me. across the above passages and knows I will say that the rationale of the KJV the beasts referred to by the KJV translators needs to be read by every­ translators are mythical, then what one concerned with proper translation does that do for his trust in the Bible? work. You can access it online at http://www.ccel.org/bible/kjv/preface/ But, there are far more serious er­ prefl.htm. rors in the KJV. Quite often, the KJV apologists will affirm that there are no You will be amazed at what the doctrinal errors in the translation. That translators of the KJV had to say is not true, to say the least. Consider about their work. They made mis­ Acts 2:47 in the KJV: "The Lord add­ takes, to be sure; they inserted error in ed to the church daily such as should the translation, no doubt; yet, they be saved." That highlighted phrase is were trying to produce the best trans­ Calvinistic. The actual phrase is lation possible for the day in which "those who were being saved." There they lived. is a BIG difference. For all its flaws, the KJV has pos­ Further, in 1 John 3:9: "Whosoever sibly had more influence on Western is born of God doth not commit sin; culture than any other piece of litera­ for his seed remaineth in him: and he ture (besides Shakespeare). Think of cannot sin, because he is born of "A house divided against itself," from God." That highlighted phrase is most the lips of the 16th President from definitely of Calvinism. Our brethren Illinois. Consider also the magisterial of old had to deal in public debate tone of "Prepare to meet thy God," or, with denominational preachers on the "Woe to them who are at ease in Zi­ subject of "once saved, always on," or the sublime rendering of saved;" invariably, one of the "sugar Psalms 23 (still, in my mind, the best

Gospel Gleaner 13 translation of that chapter). Multiplied thousands of people have been con­ verted to Christ as a result of stud y of the KJV. Many of them had no formal education; yet, they were able in gen­ eral to understand the translation A Graduate Degree for the (which speaks more about the quality Working Minister of education then, as opposed to the ONLINE! declining standards of today). And yet, we are treated to those who make The Bear Va lley Bible Institute Gradu­ ate Studies Program was designed with a habit of dismissing the KJV alto­ the loca l preacher in mind. The student gether, and even belittling those who can complete the program without sti ll use it. Don't count me in that leaving his current ministry. number. It' s contributed much good. Earn a Master's Degree In:

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While many scholars are presently rej ecting the validity of the last twelve verses of Mark, David Hester pro­ vides a defense for their inclusion and acceptance in the Bible.

41 Gospel Gleaner AReView of the New ling James version

John Board

Unless one has the ability to read words (cf. Mt.22:32 "I am the God of the languages in which the Bible was Abraham" and Gal. 3:16 "seed" vs. originally penned (Hebrew, Aramaic, "seeds"). and Greek) he is dependent upon a The NKJV employs a different translation. A translation is simply the philosophy of translation-Formal rendering of the language of the origi­ Equivalence. In this philosophy of nal document into one's own native translation great effort is made to language. Translations have served a translate the words and the nuances of wonderful purpose; they have provid­ the original languages as literally as ed to many, who otherwise would be possible. I prefer this method of trans­ unable to read the Bible, a precious lation and would consider the transla­ privilege. tion philosophy of Formal Equiva­ Different translations also hold lence to be a positive trait of the different philosophies of translation. NKJV. Of course in any translation there is A translation is not without its involved more than simply a literal problems. Because the translation word for word rendering of the process involves a "human element," Greek/Hebrew text otherwise the re­ the potential for error exists. As a re­ sult would be a rather choppy, diffi­ sult, there is no such thing as a perfect cult to follow, text. So humans, to the translation. Though minor imperfec­ original inspired text, must apply tions can be found in the best of trans­ some translation process. lations, still men have benefitted im­ One philosophy of translation mensely from the translation of Scrip­ known as Dynamic Equivalence seeks ture into one's native vernacular. to use more free and idiomatic Eng­ The purpose of this article is to lish without as much concern for the examine briefly the New King James exact wording of the original. Dynam­ Version (NKJV). In order to attempt ic Equivalence then allows for more to fulfill this purpose a few prelimi­ human interpretation of the original. naries must be considered. The lack of concern for the exact Many Changes wording of the original is problematic when one considers that the original When one speaks of the NKJV languages, especially Greek, made there must be an understanding that points based upon the tenses and the there have been several editions is­ plurality or singularity of certain sued by Thomas Nelson Publishers.

Gospel Gleaner IS The New Testament was copyrighted updated modern language, as many in 1979. Later in 1982 and then again are led to believe. in 1990 the entire Bible was copy­ Though there are legitimate criti­ righted. In the intervening years liter­ cisms in translation, sometimes critics ally thousands of changes have been get overly zealous. For example, made in the text of the NKJV. It is though some critics object to the important to understand that though NKJV translation of "they" instead of thousands of changes were made to "he" and in Isaiah 53:9 such may not the text of the NKJV, the changes did necessarily be an incorrect translation not always result in a new copyright. as much as it is a translator prefer­ So, as one reads this review, his ence. The Hebrew reads "one as­ NKJV edition, may or may not in­ signed his grave with criminals." But clude the element discussed. the subject of the singular is imper­ While I do not use the KJV as my sonal, and in these instances English translation of choice, a strength of the typically uses "they" instead of"he." KJV as a translation is that only one The translators here chose to pro­ edition, the 1769 Oxford Standard, is vide a more English reading while most often used. Since this one edition providing a marginal note that "they" is most used, the KJV presents a con­ is literally he or He. Whether this sistency of reading not found among writer agrees with the choice of the the users of the NKJV. NKJV translators, a claim that it is an Unlike Other Modern Translations error in translation might be a stretch. In my opinion there are other con­ A m~ority of conservative review­ cerns with the choices of the NKJV ers usually acknowledge that the translators that are much more diffi­ NKJV does not present as many prob­ cult to overlook. lems as the New International Ver­ sion, the Revised English Bible, or the The Historical Present Tense New Revised Standard Version. It is Due to the brevity of this article not a loose translation of the original allow one such example from the and it does not remove the hundreds NKJV New Testament that highlights of words, phrases, and verses that are the failure of the NKJV translators to often a criticism of some modern convey the historical present con­ translations. I consider all of these to tained in the Greek. Greek writers for be strengths of the NKJV. the sake of heightened vividness often Yet, the NKJV is not without crit­ used the historical present. In doing so icism. The criticisms below are more they hoped to bring their readers in than the often-noted criticism that the imagination to the actual scene at the NKJV is not simply the KJV with time of occurrence. This nuance of the original language was conveyed in the GIGospel Gleaner English of the KJV and ASV. The translators of the NASV, though they used the past tense in the text, they marked it with an asterisk to convey the nuance of the Greek.

An example is found in John I :29. John through inspiration of the Holy Spirit, wrote, "on the morrow he seeth Jesus coming unto him and saith ... "

The NKJV translators chose to render the passage with a more mod­ ern vernacular: "The next day John (suppli ed for he) saw Jesus coming towards him, and said ... " This render­ The 1\Jan of Chebar.· A Study of Ezekie l ing might provide an ease of reading Frank Chesser (one pat1 of the translation process) $ 12.95 but here it seems to remove an im­ Order from Publishing Designs Inc. portant element of the Greek text. The (256) 533-430 I intent of the NKJV seems to be to use the past tense to make the reading conform more to modern Eng! ish us­ age. Such, in this writer' s opinion, is a weakness of translation.

In conclusion, the NKJV is not this writer's choice of translation. Though it employs Formal Equivalence as a translation philosophy, the NKJV at times seems to forget this principle; instead they seek to use language that they believe will provide a greater readability for the English student of Scripture.

In my opinion, the NKJV does not The Sage of Jasper ­ provide enough of an enhanced reada­ Biography of Gus Nichols bility to offset the choices of depar­ Scott Harp ture from the text. $29.95

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Gospe l G l eaner 17 AReview of the New American Standard Bible

Roger Shepherd

I have used the New American Old Testament Translations Standard Bible (NASB, 1995) transla­ In the Old Testament, there are tion for over thirty years. I started some passages of great interest. First, with the American Standard Version the proper name for God is most sig­ (ASV) that is the most literal (word­ nificant and translated very well. This for-word) translation. The translators translation reminds us that it is incon­ smoothed out the English with some ceivable to think of a spiritual rela­ good and bad results. Christians must tionship with God without a proper work from translations except those designation for the Supreme Deity. who know the Hebrew and Greek languages. Thus, in this translation the most common name for the Deity is God This translation began in 1959 by from Elohim. One title for God is Lockman Foundation with a four-fold "Lord," a translation of Adonai. There purpose. One, it shall be true to the is another name that is assigned to original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek God as His proper name, that is, the languages as inspired by God (2 Tim. four letters YHWH (Exod. 3:14; Isa. 3: 16). Second, it shall be grammati­ 42:8). This name has not been pro­ cally correct using good contemporary nounced by the Jews because of rev­ English. Third, it shall be understand­ erence for the great sacredness of the able. Four, translators shall give divine name, thus, consistently trans­ Christ His proper place, the place that lated LORD. The only exception to the Word gives Him; therefore, no this translation of YHWH is when it work will ever be personalized. occurs in immediate proximity to the In this process they used the latest word Lord, that is, Adonai. 2 In that edition of Rudolf Kittel's Biblia He­ case it is regularly translated "GOD" braica for translation of the Hebrew to avoid confusion. in the Old Testament (OT) and the God manifests the nature of the 26th edition of Eberhard Nestle's Nov­ Supreme Being (I AM) who rules the tum Testamentum Graece in translat­ universe and the hearts of obedient ing the Greek of the New Testament child of God. The term "LORD" con­ (NT). 1 Both were used in addition veys God's sovereignty and lordship with the lexicography, cognate lan­ in preparation for the coming king­ guages, and the Dead Sea Scrolls. dom of heaven. In this respect to God

1 Preface to the New American Standard Bible, v-vii. 2 lbid. SIGospel Gleaner it is strong to translate the masculine Isaiah's context is centered upon for God, Christ, and the Holy Spirit in God being with us beginning with the both testaments. virgin birth. I caution the serious Bi­ ble student to be aware of the foot­ The NASB also translates Psalms notes that are the opinions of the 51:5 accordingly, "Behold, I was translators. brought forth in iniquity, And in sin my mother conceived me." Scholars New Testament Translations argue four options. One, this is a hy­ Likewise, in the New Testament perbolic expression acknowledging we have a weakness in that they trans­ the sinfulness of his life and every­ lated the word "fornication" (Matt. thing around him. Two, His mother 19:9) as simply "immorality." This was a sinner. Three, He asserts he was could be any act of immoral behavior born into a world of sin. Four, as in that is too liberal. The word porneia is this translation, he was born a result the root of the English terms "pornog­ of his mother's adultery. 3 One thing is raphy, pornographic (p6rnos) which is for certain, David was not born a sin­ derived from pernao, "to sell off") or ner. If he was born a sinner, this de­ properly, a selling off (surrendering) nies Ezekiel's argument that a person of sexual purity; promiscuity of any is not born with his/her father's sin (every) type. The primary translation (Ezek. 18:18, 20). The Bible teaches is unlawful sexual intercourse such as that children go astray in sin after sexual unfaithfulness and prostitu­ birth (Job. 14:4; Ps. 58:3; Eph. 2:3). tion.4 The translation of Isaiah 7:14 is a The NASB also transliterates good one, but the footnote is faulty. Christos as Christ, rather than trans­ The translation is "a virgin will be lating it "Messiah" or "Anointed One with child and bear a son and call His of God" emphasizing His deity. The name Immanuel." The footnote for term baptizo is transliterated as bap­ virgin adds just simply "a maiden" tism (Acts 2:38) instead of "immer­ that does not exactly represent the sion" in order to obtain the for­ virgin birth of Christ. giveness of sin. We would have fewer The footnote for Immanuel is problems with this requirement for strong, for "God is with us." Matthew salvation if it was correctly translated. and Luke, inspired authors of the gos­ We find a hierarchy for church pel, agree that this is an accurate leadership represented by the word translation (Matt. 1:23; cf. Luke 2:27).

4 Walter Bauer, W. F. Arndt, F. W. Gingrich, and Frederick William Danker, A Greek­ 3 Cloer Eddie Truth for Today Commentary English Lexicon of the New Test~ment and Psalms Jl-89 (Searcy, AR: Resource Publica­ other Early Christian Literature (Ch1cago, ILL: tion, 2006), 8-9. The University of Chicago Press, 2000), 854. Gospel Gleaner 19 "office" in I Timothy 3: 1, which is beginning, stood firm in the present, not in the Greek text. The word epis­ and will continue in the future. Sec­ kopa is correctly translated if anyone ond, they strongly translate "buried" is seeking the work of an overseer. in baptism; as baptism is certainly a The ecclesiastical loanwords "office" burial in water that results in a new and "bishop" are too technical and life or salvation in Christ (Rom. 6:4; loaded with late historical baggage for Mark 16:16; I Pet. 3:21). Third, faith precise signification of usage of epis­ or belief is translated (Rom. 10:9-10) kopos.5 as "believe" that results in righteous­ ness and salvation. Therefore, faith The common meaning is care, pro­ only does not save. It translates salva­ tection, and spiritual shepherding. It is tion by grace through faith accurately God who grants gracious care and (Rom. 5:2; 6:23; Eph. 2:8-10). protection. People are directed to it through shepherds who oversee their Conclusion spiritual lives. In context, an overseer In an overall review, I recommend is described as a shepherd (episkopa). 6 this translation, especially as a study The correct usage of epsikopa is for Bible, for three reasons: One, it repre­ men to function as spiritual shepherds sents the original language in a word­ involved in the lives of the people. for-word translation with good flow­ Shepherds are not hierarchal and ad­ ing contemporary English. Second, ministrative lords. They are examples the scholars who did the translation of personal teaching, serving, and had doctorates in biblical languages. ministry to the spiritual needs of the Third, it has the reputation of being people. Shepherds smell like sheep in the most accurate translation of the the fold of God and must be involved Hebrew and Greek Bible. in the lives ofthe people. Strengths of the NASB will mention three strengths. First, concerning the church: the "keys of the kingdom" is translated "shall have been bound and loosed in heaven" (Matt. 16: 18-19). It correctly translated the perfect passive action that is the authority of God concern­ ing the church existed with God in the

5 Bauer, Arndt, Gingrich, and Danker, 379. 6 Gerhard Kittel, Theological Dictionary of The New Testament, Vol. II (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, I 964 ), 606-08. 10 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r AReview of the New International Version

David O'Connell

The beginnings of the New Inter­ submitting to the authority of the national Version go back to the Word of God. Their high view of 1950's when there was a negative Scripture was to be one of the main reaction among some evangelicals safeguards in their translation process. concerning the Revised Standard Ver­ The text which the NIV translators sion. In the late 1960's, an overseeing used was an eclectic text. This does committee was formed and serious have much to commend it. However, work began on the new translation. the idea of taking a "middle road" The New Testament came out in between the "Textus Receptus" and 1973, followed by the Old Testament recent textual discoveries has its own being published in 1978. There have set of problems. We want to show been over four million copies sold of some of the strengths and also the the New International Version. weaknesses of the New International The translation was named "Inter­ Version. national" because the translators came Strengths from several English-speaking coun­ tries: the United States, Canada, Great The main strengths of the NIV are Britain, Ireland, Australia, and New threefold: (1) use of recent texts, dis­ Zealand. Almost one hundred people coveries, and scholarship in transla­ worked on the original project. After tion, (2) the commitment of the trans­ the whole Bible was published, a lators to a high view of scripture, and standing committee of about fifteen (3) its readability. The New Interna­ scholars has met annually to discuss tional Version provides easy reading changes that should be made in the and comprehension. Some also be­ work. These translators come from lieve a strength of the NIV to be its America, Great Britain, India, et al. availability in a number of different attractive and inviting formats. This Currently, the translation team is variety of formats and editions partial­ made up of thirteen men and two ly accounts for its popularity. Howev­ women. Originally, the translators er, these qualities are probably due to were from thirteen different religious decisions by the publishers rather than groups. The current group of transla­ the translators. tors is from eight different religious bodies. Each translator was asked to Weaknesses sign a document affirming their belief We also want to point out some of in the inspiration of Scripture and also the weaknesses in the NIV. Gospel Gleaner 111 In the Old Testament, the NIV John 4:9. The word "begotten" is in reads in Psalm 51:5: "Surely I was the footnote of each of those verses. sinful at birth, sinful from the time my The NIV translators have the phrase mother conceived me." An earlier "one and only son" in the text, but this edition of the NIV reads: "Surely I is not quite strong enough. All Chris­ was a sinner from birth." tians are sons or daughters of God, but we are not His "only begotten" sons The KJV of this passage reads: or daughters. It would have been a "Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and better translation if the text read "only in sin did my mother conceive me." unique Son" or "His divine Son." The American Standard Version These are difficult passages because (190 1) and the New American Stand­ the Greek word for "only begotten" is ard (1963, 1971) both translate it: "monogenes," and the word "begot­ "Behold, I was brought forth in iniqui­ ten" is rarely used in contemporary ty. And in sin my mother conceived society. me." One of the greatest faults of the It seems that the NIV was influ­ New International Version was the enced more by Calvinistic theology translation of the word "sarx." The than actual translating of this verse. KJV and ASV translated it "flesh," There is no doubt that this is a diffi­ but the NIV translated it "sinful na­ cult verse, but the NIV translation ture." Sixteen times, the NIV trans­ supports original or Adamic sin. lates "sarx" as "sinful nature." The New Testament has several It also translates it once as "sinful places that are problematic. Some man," once as "standards of the have criticized the very first verse of world," and once as "live in the the NIV in the New Testament be­ world." This seems to be a clear in­ cause it reads: "A record of the gene­ stance of Calvinistic thinking on the alogy of Jesus Christ," whereas the part of the translators. KJV and ASV have: "The book of the In most places, the NIV has "flesh" generation of Jesus Christ." The NIV in a footnote. The word "flesh" is a nowhere else uses the word "record" word that can mean muscles and bone in the sense of a book. This seems to (human physical flesh), or it can mean be an inconsistency, but is not an ef­ that part of a person which makes a fort to change the Word of God as decision to live out of harmony with some have charged. God's will. In several places, the NIV transla­ John Calvin taught that all human tors left out the word "begotten" in beings inherited a "sinful nature" from reference to Christ. These passages are: John 1:14,18; John 3:16,18; and I Adam and his sin. However, the Scriptures are clear that no one inher- 12 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r its sin or a sinful nature from another refers to a Christian designated to (cf. Ezekiel 18:4-20; Deuteronomy serve with the overseers/elders of the 1:39; Matthew 19: 14). church in a variety of ways." In this same regard, the earlier editions of I ln all fairness to the NIV, the 2<111 Timothy 3: 11 had "wives" of the dea­ edition reversed positions and put cons but had "deaconess" in the foot­ "flesh" in the text and "sinful nature" notes. The 2011 footnote reads "Pos­ in the footnotes. Some may feel that sibly deacon's wives or women who this does not matter, since the idea of are deacons." "sinful nature" was in the text from 1973 until 2011. This certainly was The earlier rendition of Psalm 23:4 the case, but they have changed the in the NIV reads: "Even though I walk translation and did this because of the through the valley of the shadow of different thinking on the part of the death." The updated NIV of 2011 current translation committee. reads: "Even though I walk through the darkest valley." A valley may be The NIV has the phrase "marital dark, it may be scary, but this does not unfaithfulness" in Matthew 5:32 and necessarily connote "death." Matthew 19:9 instead of the word "fornication." In other instances, the The earlier NIV readings of Mala­ NIV has "sexual immorality" (Mat­ chi 2:16 had: "I hate divorce says the thew 15:19; Mark 7:21; Acts Lord God of Israel, and I hate a man's 15:20,29; Romans 13:13; I Corinthi­ covering himself with violence as well ans 5:1; 6:13,18; 7:2; Galatians 5:19; as with a garment." The updated NIV etc.). While "marital unfaithfulness" has: "the man who hates and divorces might convey the idea of sexual infi­ his wife, says the Lord, the God of delity, it might mean something else Israel, does violence to the one he as well. It is clear that the word "por­ should protect." In one, God is the nea" in Matthew 5:32 and Matthew subject and speaks saying, "I hate 14:9 can only mean sexual infidelity. divorce." In the newer one, "the man" The NIV translators should have been is the one who hates. This is quite a consistent and used "sexual immorali- difference and not an improvement. ty." There are some times when the The New International Version has updated NIV makes an improvement Phoebe as a "servant" of the church in in the text. In Isaiah 16:6 and Jeremi­ Romans 16: 1, with the word "deacon­ ah 48:29, the old NIV had "overween­ ess" in the notes. However, in the ing pride." The 2011 NIV has "great 2011 edition, the word "deaconess" arrogance." The KN has "haughti­ has been put into the text, and "serv­ ness" and "exceeding pride." ant" is in the notes. A footnote in the Another edition of the NIV has 2011 version also states that "deacon made an attempt to be a "gender neu- G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 13 tral'' translation. It is called "Today's New International Version" (TNIV). EACH ON The translating committee of the

An example of this is found in He­ brews 12:7, which says: "God is treat­ ing you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by hi s father" (NIV). The TNIV has: " What children are not disciplined by their parents?" The Each One Reach One TNIV is obviously not making an Andy Erwin effort to be closer to the Greek. In­ $15.95 stead, it is a compromise with those in our society who are changing all dif­ Available from Cobb Publishing ferences between men and women. God's prohibition to adding to His Word needs to be heeded (Deuteron­ omy 4:2; Revelation 22: 18, 19).

Conclusion

We would not use the NIV as our only translation, but it ce1tainly is helpful as a comparison version for study and, on occasion, to quote from when the text of theN IV is clearer.

Because there is no divine inspira­ tion today, no translation is perfect. Every single translation has its strengths and its weaknesses. None Great Doctrines of the Bible are absolutely perfect. There is one Robert Waggoner area that, even though imperfect, is $22.95 the most imp01tant pmt of the transla­ tion process. The ultimate goal of all Order from Gospel Light Books translations is to translate the sacred (870) 3 79-2412 Word of God from the text into the conduct of daily life. We pray we will all accomplish this goal. 14 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r Gaspe I G I e a n e r I 15 AReView of the English Standard Version

Denny Petrillo

Reviewing a translation is always The textual basis of the English perilous work. There are those who Standard Version (ESV) rests on ec­ have become emotionally connected lectic critical Greek texts (the United to the translation, thus to criticize it is Bible Societies Greek New Testa­ to attack them personally. To com­ ment, 4th ed. and the Nestle-Aland mend it is to suggest that it is without Novum Testamentum Graece, 27th flaw and should be embraced categor­ ed.). Thus, it uses a different textual ically. Yet it needs to be stated clear­ base than the KJV and the NKJV ly upfront: there is no petfect transla­ which used the Textus Receptus (the tion. Every translation known to man edition of the Greek New Testament has its flaws. Failure to acknowledge first edited by Erasmus, and revised this is equivalent to burying one's by others through the centuries). head in the sand, refusing to face the However, since the ESV is virtually a facts. reproduction of the RSV, it should not Background of the ESV be implied that it is a "new" transla­ tion that started from scratch with The English Standard Version either the Hebrew text or eclectic (ESV) is a good translation (Standard Greek texts. Bible Society. Wheaton, IL: Crossway The editors ofthe ESV all claim to Books and Bibles, 200 I). It has re­ believe in the inspiration of Scripture ceived recommendations from many. and maintain a conservative funda­ It really is not a new translation, but is mentalist perspective. Their translat­ almost completely a duplication of the ing philosophy was to produce a ver­ Revised Standard Version. sion that was "essentially literal." Approximately 95% of the ESV is They are openly critical of "dynamic a reproduction of the RSV. This point equivalence," where the translator is alone is neither good nor bad. Many not really attempting to translate the are unaware that the KJV of 1611 was words, but rather to convey the idea. basically the Bishop's Bible (1568) This philosophy is known as a which was a revision of Matthew's "thought for thought" translation, and Bible (1537). All of these Bibles describes translations like the New leaned heavily on the work of William International Version, the New Living Tyndale and his Bible (1534). Even Bible Translation and the Holman the modem edition of the KJV is the Christian Standard Bible. While they product of several revisions. achieved their goal of being "essen­ tially literal" (following other versions 16 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r like the KJV, NKJV and NASB), the Spirit for the common good." there are some verses that read more This is not the word 1tVWf.lavepro

1 Kyle Pope, "A Review of the English Stand­ 2 As a result, Wayne Jackson specifically ad­ ard Version" Biblical Insights 11.3 (March dressed the problem with the ESV rendering 2011): 25 here: G o s p e I G I e a n e r 117 8. Proverbs 3:3; 14:22; 16:6; it as an adjective: "the good 20:28; 29:14 - translates the He­ word .... "). brew word 'emeth as "faithful­ 10. Psalm 94:9 - The ESV reads: ness," which gives a totally dif­ "He who planted the ear, does he ferent understanding of these not hear? He who formed the eye, verses than the usual meaning of does he not see?" What does 'emeth as "truth" (which is the "planted the ear" mean? Are we way most major translations talking about an ear of com? The translate it, except the NIV which idea is that God has made, also goes with "faithfulness"). formed or fashioned the human 9. Hebrews 6:5 - "goodness" is a ear. noun, and the word kalos used Examples of Dynamic Equivalence here is an adjective. Therefore, (which is not a good translating ap­ "goodness" is an incorrect trans­ proach) lation (the ESV is the only ver­ sion I found that makes this mis­ 11. 1 Corinthians 11:30, translates take. The others correctly render the Greek "fallen asleep" as "died" (whereas it translates the same Greek word as "fallen Inasmuch as the Scriptures are verbally inspired of God (i.e., the words themselves are divinely­ asleep" in 1 Thessalonians 4:14) directed; I Corinthians 2:13; 2 Timothy 3:16- 17; 2 Peter I :20-21), even their grammatical 12. Romans 8:37 - translates the forms (e.g., nouns, verbs, prepositions, tense, strong adversative a II a as "no" voice, mood, singular, plural, etc.) are im­ portant. It is, therefore, a perilous venture for a instead of the more common translator to substitute his own wording for "but" (the NIV makes the same sacred forms, by radical changes in the text. For example, in verse I 0, the ESV translators mistake) alter the text by changing two "nouns" (right­ eousness and salvation) into "verbs" (justified 13. Matthew 7:13 - translates the and saved), and by transforming the twice-used Greek eurucwro~ as "easy." preposition "unto" (Greek, eis) into conjunc­ tions, "and." Whereas in reality, the preposi­ Whereas that is the idea, is not a tions point to a goal towards which both the faithful translation of the word it­ believing and the confessing are progressing - self. The Greek says "the way is a goal not reached by either of these actions alone. broad." That is the literal mean­ Jackson made the following conclusion regard­ ing of the word. ing the ESV here: "No, this rendition does not teach the erroneous doctrine of "salvation by 14. Matthew 7:14- similar problem faith alone," though it is not rendered as pre­ cisely as it ought to have been." (Wayne Jack­ with Matthew 7: 13. Translates son, "Does the ESV Translation Promote "Faith the word "narrow" as "hard." Alone" Salvation?" 15. Romans 6:19- The ESV says: "I https://www.christiancourier.com/articles/l 078- does-the-esv-translation-promote-faith-alone­ am speaking in human terms, be­ salvation). cause of your natural limitations."

18 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r The Greek has the word "flesh" already difficult phrase nearly (sarkos). "Natural limitations" is impossible to comprehend. a perfect example of a dynamic 19. Prov. 30:25-26 - "the ants are a equivalent rather than a transla­ people not strong, yet they pro­ tion. Besides, the insertion of the vide their food in the summer; word "natural" makes it sound rock badgers are a people not (and support) the Calvinistic doc­ mighty, yet they make their trine of total depravity. homes in the cliffs." Are ants and Poorly Translated Verses badgers "people"? Plus the word order is clumsy and difficult. 16. Ephesians 3:6: The Greek here is beautifully written with three 20. Some verses are funny (although "cruv (sun-) phrases. Unfortunate­ certainly not meant to be!): ly, the ESV fails to show this Psalm 147:10 - "His delight is symmetry by translating it as fol­ not in the strength of the horse, lows: "This mystery is that the nor his pleasure in the legs of a Gentiles are fellow heirs, mem­ man." Amos 4:6 - "I gave you bers of the same body, and par­ cleanness of teeth in all your cit­ takers of the promise in Christ J e­ ies." sus through the gospel." By con­ Conclusion trast, note the excellent rendering of the NAS: "that the Gentiles are These few illustrations (there are fellow heirs and fellow members many more )3 demonstrates that the of the body and fellow partakers ESV has its share of translating issues. of the promise in Christ Jesus That being said, the translation did a through the gospel" (emphasis good job in a majority of verses. It mine). demonstrates a high regard for the inspiration of Scripture. It certainly is 17. James 1:25 - The Greek says not perfect, but one can learn and "whoever abides" by the word teach the truth from this version. (Greek: meno), but the ESV translated it "endures." The word is not hupomone like in 1:3, 12. The point is that you need to abide/remain in the Word. 18. Romans 1:17- the ESV renders 3 the phrase "from faith for faith." Mark L. Strauss, "Why the English Standard Version (ESV) Should not become the Standard The Greek here is EK nicrn:ro~ si~ English Version." nicmv, literally "out of faith into https://zondervan.typepad.com/files/improvinge faith." Translating the Greek sv2.pdf preposition si~ as "for" makes an G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 19 Asummarv of Thought on Bible Translations

Andy Erwin

Seeing that we have been briefly tament consisted of parallel columns reviewing a few of the most popular of Greek on the left and his own Latin English Bible translations in this issue translation on the right. Erasmus had of the Gospel Gleaner, it seems ap­ hoped to find one Greek manuscript propriate to provide a summary of for the entire work but was unable. thought to what has been said. Much Therefore, he compiled half a dozen of the debate pertaining to Bible trans­ or so2 minuscule-style3 manuscripts lations has to do with the Greek text which were dated no later than the being translated for the New Testa­ tenth century. None of these manu­ ment and the method used to translate scripts contained the entire New Tes­ the selected text. tament. The only copy of Revelation available to Erasmus lacked verses The Hebrew text used to translate 22: 16-21, which caused him to trans­ the Old Testament into English is not late these verses from the Latin Vul­ discussed nearly as much. In fact, gate into his Greek text. Erasmus re­ modem English translations use es­ vised his Greek text four times (1519, sentially the same Hebrew text for the 1522, 1527, and 1535). A second spu­ Old Testament, even though they may rious manuscript appeared by the time vary occasionally and in translating of his 1522 revision which included 1 certain words or phrases. John 5:7-8. It is believed that both Such is not the case with the New Luther4 and Tyndale5 used the 1522 Testament. Modem English transla­ tions of the New Testament are de­ rived from one of three Greek texts. 2 Accounts vary as to just how many man­ THE TEXTUS RECEPTUS uscripts Erasmus had when he first began this process. It is generally believed he The story of the Greek text that had between six and eight. Although some have suggested he had as many as came to be known as the Textus Re­ twelve documents. ceptus 1 begins with Desiderius Eras­ 3 In his book, God's Word into English, mus of Rotterdam (1466-1536). Dewey Beegle notes: "About the ninth Erasmus was a Latin and Greek century A.D. a very attractive, smooth­ flowing type of handwriting was devel­ scholar who is credited with publish­ oped which made it possible for scribes to ing the first printed Greek New T es­ connect many letters without raising the tament in 1516. Erasmus' New Tes- pen" p.l9. 4 Martin Luther translated the Bible into German in 1522. 1 In English, this Latin term is translated 5 William Tyndale translated the New "Received Text." Testament in English in 1525. 20 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r edition for their respective transla­ The Textus Receptus as it appeared tions. in Erasmus' 1522 edition was the Greek text for the early English trans­ Improvements to the Textus Re­ lations of the New Testament, begin­ ceptus continued to be made through­ ning with William Tyndale's transla­ out the nineteenth century as new tion of 1526.7 8 manuscripts were discovered and add­ ed as variant readings to the text. In Translation Date 1881, Frederick Scrivener (1813- 1891) collated the Codex Sinaiticus6 William Tyndale's Translation 1526 with the Textus Receptus. Scrivener Miles Coverdale's Transla- 1535 compared the Textus Receptus with tion: The Coverdale Bible the editions of Stephanus (1550), John Rogers' Translation: The 1537 Theodore Beza (1565), and Elzevier Matthew Bible (1633) and enumerated all the differ­ Miles Coverdale's Second 153910 ences. The Scrivener text was pro­ Translation: The Great Bible9 William Whittingham's duced in an attempt to reconstruct the 155i1 Greek text underlying the King James Translation: The Geneva Bible Version of 1611. The Bishops' Bible12 1568

Amazingly, the translators of the The King James Version 1611 King James Version never published the Greek text from which they worked. Therefore, Scrivener attempt­ ed to formulate the text they would 7 John Wycliffe's translation of the New have used by examining the various Testament (1380) was derived from the Latin Vulgate rather than any Greek man­ texts that would have been available uscripts. to them. Scrivener matched various 8 Tyndale also revised his translation of readings (primarily the Beza and the New Testament in 1534 and 1535. In these revisions, he made corrections when Stephanus texts) to fit the English needed, included fewer marginal notes, used by the translators. Thus, the and shortened the introductions to each Scrivener text properly belongs to the book. 9 family of Textus Receptus. It can be The Great Bible could be viewed as more of a revision of the Coverdale Bible rightly said that Scrivener's text was than a new translation. the best and most recent update for his 10 Extensive revisions of this translation time. occurred through 1540-41 11 The New Testament was completed in 1557. The entire Bible was finished in 1560. 12 This version was done by a committee 6 The Codex Sinaiticus dates to the middle of Anglican Bishops overseen by Matthew of the 41h century. It contains the earliest Parker, the Archbishop of Canterbury. known complete copy of the New Testa­ Hence the name "Bishops' Bible" was ment. supplied. G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 21 When the decision was made by text was published and revised during Sam Moore and Thomas Nelson Pub­ the years 1867-1872. Eight editions lishers that the King James Version in all were published. In 1881, B.F. was to be revised and brought into Westcott (1825 -190 I) and F .J .A. Hort twentieth century English, it was de­ (1828-1902), took the work of cided that the Textus Receptus would Tischendorf and those who followed be the textual basis for their transla­ him, and revised it further in their text tion of New Testament. titled The New Testament in the Orig­ inal Greek. Westcott and Hort were THE CRITICAL TEXT also able to rely heavily upon the Co­ The process of formulating a sec­ dex Vaticanus which was not accessi­ ond Greek text of the New Testament ble to Tischendorf or his revisers. began in the 1830s with the work of The Critical Text also underwent the German scholar Karl Lachmann revisions. In the late 1940s, Erwin (1793-1851 ). Lachmann published Nestle (1883-1972) employed Kurt three editions of a Greek New Testa­ Aland (1915-1994) to assist in revis­ ment from 1831-1850, in which he ing the text which would be known as used only uncial Alexandrian and Old the Nestle-Aiand text. This text is now Latin manuscripts. Lachmann's work in its 281h edition. was the first to break from the Textus Receptus which was based largely During this period, Kurt Aland, upon Byzantine manuscripts. Samuel Matthew Black, Bruce Metzger, Allen Tregelles also published a text around Wikgren, Eugene Nida, and Barbara this time using nearly the same prin­ Aland worked together as a committee ciples as Lachmann. 13 for the United Bible Societies to pro­ duce The Greek New Testament which Constantin von Tischendorf (1815- was first published in 1966. It is now 1874) followed in the footsteps of in its fifth edition. Lachmann in that he gave decisive weight to the oldest manuscripts with­ THE MAJORITY TEXT out balancing their testimony against In 1982, Thomas Nelson Publish­ that of the Textus Receptus. Tischen­ ers produced The Greek New Testa­ dorf discovered and published more ment According to the Majority Text. manuscripts in his day than any other Zane Hodges and Arthur Farstad were scholar. He examined everything the principal editors. The Majority available to him - manuscripts, ver­ Text has also undergone revision. sions, church fathers, etc. His Greek Maurice A. Robinson and William G. Pierpont produced The New Testa­ 13 Philip Comfort, Encountering the Man­ ment in the Original Greek: Byzantine uscripts: An Introduction to New Testa­ ment Paleography and Textual Criticism Textform, in 1991 and a revision in (Nashville, TN: B&H, 2005), 293. 2005. 22 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r THE TRANSLATION PROCESS I recommend that you have a good study Bible with an accurate transla­ With three possible Greek texts to tion, a Bible dictionary, and a good choose from, a translating committee concordance. These three tools will must decide which text they will use. help you immensely in your studies. Having decided on the text they are to translate, they must then decide how IN CONCLUSION they will proceed in the translating Today, the overwhelming number process. of scholars, schools, and even Bible Does the translating committee translations support the Critical Text. have a high view of scripture? Will Certainly much work has been done they treat the text with the reverence and many pieces of evidence have deserving of the word of God? Will been discovered since the time of they use an idiomatic approach? Will Erasmus and even Scrivener. they seek to paraphrase the text or to While we continue to debate which translate the text as closely to the Greek text is most accurate, there re­ Greek as translation will allow? On mains approximately 80% agreement this point we have the debate of between the texts. It is the 20% for thought-for-thought (dynamic equiva­ which we disagree that includes pas­ lency) or word-for-word (literal) sages whose authenticity must be set­ translations. tled. It could be said that these disput­ Many Bible students prefer ed passages do not affect the plan of thought-for-thought translations such salvation, and that one can be led to as the Open Bible, NIV, Living Bible, the truth without them. While others or even The Message. However, these deem such an answer unsatisfactory students must proceed with caution. I and believe the issue is much deeper would recommend having a literal than that. These would maintain that translation as well. Sadly, not every every word of God must be represent­ English translation has been produced ed in the Bible and that not one jot or by people with a great regard for in­ tittle should be removed. spiration. Many modem scholars deny Emotions tend to run high with the verbal inspiration ofthe Bible and this discussion. Dialogue and study is are very reckless in the translations what is needed most. Let us continue they publish. to study this issue and listen to others. Our desire as Bible students should Our desire should be to learn and to be to know the word and to apply the uphold the word of God, regardless of word. Of course, application will which version's name is imprinted on prove impossible without knowledge. the cover.

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 23 Is Scriptural Worship a "Core Belief' for Lipscomb University?

Is Lipscomb University in violation ofher founding purpose and guilty of a breach ofcontract? You be the judge.

Steve Gibson

In July 2005, Lipscomb University provides a clear and adequate measure inaugurated its seventeenth President, of Christian commitment ... Howev­ Dr. L. Randolph Lowery III. He has er, we face in the twenty-first century since brought unprecedented change changing and challenging times . . . to the school. After his ascension to Churches of Christ themselves have leadership, Faculty Handbooks began experienced a 'crisis of identity' over to proclaim, "Indeed, a new day has the last several decades, becoming dawned ... People are already saying, much more diverse in belief. Lip­ 'If you haven't seen Lipscomb lately, scomb, too, has undergone change. It you haven't seen Lipscomb!"' It is not is no longer the case, as it was for surprising, therefore, that the Presi­ many years, that 100% of the mem­ dent and Board of Trustees of Lip­ bers of the Lipscomb faculty belong scomb University have now initiated a to Churches of Christ ... the Presi­ formal process to reassess "how Lip­ dent and Board of Trustees have scomb defines itself." asked us to re-engage the powerful VISIOn for Christian unity that A document is presently being launched and guided the Stone­ circulated by one of the school's Spir­ Campbell movement over two hun­ itual Formation officers entitled "Lip­ dred years ago." scomb University's Centering Core: A Campus-wide Conversation." In it the Under the heading of "The 'Cen­ following observations are made: "For tering Core' of Churches of Christ" the most part Lipscomb has defined the document goes on to highlight ten its Christian character the same way essential doctrines, saying, "Some­ Churches of Christ have defined thing close to the following list is theirs-through a distinct core of be­ what counted as orthodox in the first liefs and practices, though not formal­ several generations of the Stone­ ized in an official creed. Further, in Campbell movement." setting the qualifications for employ­ Under the heading of "Lipscomb ment at Lipscomb, the University his­ University's Current Centering Core," torically has assumed that declaring the proposal then continues, in part: membership in a Church of Christ "The university's founders were lead- 24 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r ers in a fellowship that was becoming The document invites faculty known in the late nineteenth century members to gather and discuss the as the Churches of Christ. These question, "In light of Lipscomb's churches grew from the American close 125-year connection to Church­ Restoration Movement, which sought es of Christ, what are the key convic­ to restore unity among believers by tions you think most important to in­ rejecting creeds and returning to the sure an intentional, and vibrant Chris­ Bible, excluding all human opinions tian university?" and philosophy, as the only rule of While it remains to be seen what faith and practice. Churches of Christ results this process will yield, a voice are autonomous, non-denominational from the grave would surely answer congregations associated by common that a continuing commitment to ex­ core beliefs as recorded in the New clusively scriptural worship is among Testament. Lipscomb University is the University's most important "key not a church. Because of its strong convictions." heritage of association with the Churches of Christ, Lipscomb Univer­ The Lipscomb Deed sity adheres to the central doctrinal On September 17, 1904, David interpretations that characterize these Lipscomb and his wife Margaret churches . . . While we endorse and deeded portions of their farm on seek to teach absolute truths of scrip­ Granny White Pike to the Nashville ture, we also acknowledge that the Bible School subject to certain re­ study of scripture results in questions strictions governing the land's future on which there will never be consen­ use. The restrictive clause signed by sus." David Lipscomb's own hand states, in Reconsidering How Lipscomb part: Defines Itself "The land hereby conveyed is to be On information and belief, private used for maintaining a school in meetings of invited faculty members which in addition to other branches of are scheduled to begin in May 20 19 learning, the Bible as the recorded for the purpose of assisting present will of God and the only standard of administrators to better define, articu­ faith and practice in religion, exclud­ late, and update "Lipscomb Universi­ ing all human systems and opinions, ty's Current Centering Core." Why is and all innovations, inventions and a progressive President now asking devices of man from the service and new faculty members that he himself worship of God shall be taught as reg­ has selected and hired (like Dr. Rubel ular daily study to all who shall attend Shelly) to reconsider "how Lipscomb said school, and for no other purpose defines itself'? inconsistent with this object, this con­ dition being herein inserted at the re- G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 25 quest of said Nashville Bible School, organ goes into apostasy" and that "a of which David Lipscomb was one of church that does this is not a church of the founders, and the same is hereby Christ" ("Deposition of David Lip­ declared fundamental and shall adhere scomb: Cross-Examination," Vol. I, to the premises conveyed as an im­ pp. 23-24; per microfilm in Beaman perative restriction on their use so Library of transcripts "faithfully com­ long as the same shall be owned by piled and arranged for library use by said Nashville Bible School ... H. Leo Boles"). "All directors of said corporation, or Forty years after it took his name trustees of the school, and regular in April 1918, the school continued to members of the faculty, shall be mem­ honor brother Lipscomb's stance of bers of the Church of Christ, in full excluding all human innovations from sympathy with the teachings above set the worship of God by enacting cor­ forth, and desirous to carry them out. porate by-laws: "All members of the Any one failing to have those qualifi­ Board of Directors shall be members cations shall resign or be removed." of the church of Christ in good stand­ Mr. and Mrs. Lipscomb also made it ing with their congregations. Each clear that the same restrictions would member shall be opposed to all inno­ apply to any successor organization vations and departures in the work using the property or funded by its and worship as taught in the New Tes­ sale, "it being our purpose and inten­ tament" (By-Laws of Board of Direc­ tion to impress the trust declared by tors of David Lipscomb College, Arti­ said limitations and restrictions per­ cle 2, Section 2, as cited in David Lip­ petually upon the property" (1904 scomb College Faculty Handbook Deed Book of Davidson County, Ten­ 1958-59, p. 8, emphasis added). nessee, pp. 560-562 [handwritten]; A New "Centering Core" same restrictions repeated in Deed No. 55646 to Nashville Bible School, Beyond doubt, the school's historic signed by David Lipscomb and wife opposition to innovations in the wor­ onDec.30, 1913;recordedonJan.l2, ship of God included and was intend­ 1914, per 1914 Deed Book, pp. 181- ed to condemn "the use of instrumen­ 182 [typewritten]; emphasis added). tal music in worship" (DLC Faculty Handbook 1962-63, p. 8). However, The By-Laws the new "Centering Core" advanced Sometime between April 1903 and by current administrators appears to at January 1905 in connection with the least float the option of relaxing this Newbern church property trial held at historic conviction of the school. How Dyersburg, Tennessee, David Lip­ so? "Lipscomb University's Centering scomb affirmed under oath his convic­ Core" proposes that the school simply tion that a "church that adopts the state, "We respect and endorse the

26 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r first-century practice of non- present administration now asks the instrumental worship." University to re-engage? But as a declaration of principle Reflecting upon "The Heritage" of this is a half-truth that even the ene­ the school, the college said of itself in mies of David Lipscomb could have 1962: approved. For the core concern of the "It is imperative that those of us school's founder was that any innova­ who devote our strength to the work tion added to this practice be exclud­ of David Lipscomb College under­ ed! Unlike the school's prior declara­ stand and share the convictions which tions, the present proposal stops short brought it into being. This is especial­ of labeling instrumental worship as an ly true in view of the fact that many of innovation, digression, or false doc­ the spiritual perils which prevailed in trine not in accord with school policy. 1891 exist today, although often in Among items allegedly "counted more sinister form. The history of as orthodox in the first several genera­ higher education in the United States tions of the Stone-Campbell move­ reveals that many religious groups ment" the new proposal concludes have founded colleges to offset secu­ with "(10) Worship without musical larism and promote their interests. It is instruments is commanded by God sobering to realize that few of these (among those who became Churches colleges have completed even one of Christ in the latter nineteenth cen­ century in loyalty to its original pur­ tury)." poses, with the exception of Catholic institutions. This tragic denial of However, did nineteenth century founding ideals must not befall David opponents of instrumental music real­ Lipscomb College. ly believe that God had explicitly "commanded" them not to worship "The decade of the 1880's saw the with it? loss of many of the accomplishments of the Restoration Movement. A lack Does this language not resurrect of fundamental understanding of the the instrumentalists' old straw-man nature of the effort, coupled with a that can be answered by a simple re­ desire to be 'like the nations around tort that there is no direct command about,' unleashed a wave of digres­ explicitly forbidding its use? sion which swept congregations eve­ Does the proposal's summary not rywhere into departure. characterize opposition to instrumen­ "In Nashville only the South Col­ tal music in worship as merely a lege Street congregation, where David fringe opinion in a much larger Lipscomb was an elder, withstood the movement whose majority vision the tide. In 1888, James A. Harding, per­ haps the most widely known evange- G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 27 list in the brotherhood, stayed in the cisely what is needed in the Nashville Lipscomb home while conducting a of2019 as well? meeting at College Street church. The Henry Leo Boles, a personal asso­ two men talked at length about the ciate of David Lipscomb and sixth problem of rebuilding the cause on a President of his school when its name foundation which could not again be was officially changed to David Lip­ swept away. scomb College, once commented on "They reached the conclusion that Jesus' condemnation of hypocrisy in the answer was to be found in the es­ Matthew 23:29-31: tablishment of a school whose central "This seventh woe pronounced purpose would be to teach the Bible to upon these scribes and Pharisees con­ every student every day. These two demns them for building 'the sepul­ spiritual giants agreed to combine chers of the prophets, and garnish the their abilities for this work. The result tombs of the righteous.' They built was the opening of the Nashville Bi­ domes and columns over the graves of ble School on October 5, 1891" (DLC the prophets, and adorned or gar­ Faculty Handbook 1962-63, pp. 6-8) nished them. They made it appear that A Different Solution? they were honoring the prophets and righteous men of old, yet at the same Do "changing times" faced "in the time they were dishonoring them with twenty-first century" really call for a their teachings and examples" (Com­ different solution than what David mentary on Matthew, 1936, p. 453). Lipscomb and James Harding con­ ceived when the Restoration Move­ Will the current administration and ment was dividing in 1888? faculty now bless under his name the very digression which brother Lip­ How does the fact that some con­ scomb himself so strenuously and gregations associated with Lipscomb sacrificially opposed? Does treating University "have experienced a 'crisis instrumental worship as a non-issue of identity' over the last several dec­ not amount to hypocritically adorning ades, becoming much more diverse in his tomb in lieu of honoring his teach­ belief' differ from the critical decade ing? of the school's founding when "the 1880's saw the loss of many of the Basic Conditions accomplishments of the Restoration and Commitments Movement" and "a wave of digression After distinguishing the founders' which swept congregations every­ convictions from certain anti­ where into departure"? doctrines of "recent origin," the 1962 Is not a school modeled after Da­ statement went on to note: vid Lipscomb's original vision pre-

28 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r " ... there have been developed pella. It still characterizes who we are through the years a number of basic and Doug understood that" (Ray conditions and commitments which Waddle, "Lipscomb, minister at distinguish David Lipscomb College odds-Bible teacher resigns over from many other institutions. A pre­ church's musical tradition," The Ten­ requisite for membership on the facul­ nessean, August 29, 1999, p. B-1). ty is loyalty to New Testament Chris­ By including a carefully-worded tianity as understood and traditionally restrictive clause in his deed, did Da­ practiced among churches of Christ. vid Lipscomb succeed in being able to This includes complete and unwaver­ rebuild the cause of restoration "on a ing acceptance of the Bible as the foundation which could not again be divinely inspired word of God; oppo­ swept away"? Ominously, the news­ sition to such false doctrines as the paper reporter concluded his article by use of instrumental music in worship, noting that an elder at Community premillennialism, and missionary so­ Church "predicts the music issue in cieties ... Acceptance of a position on Churches of Christ will fade away the faculty is considered a commit­ once young churchgoers, awash daily ment to these principles. Opposition in music, become church leaders" to them either in teaching, personal (Ibid., p. B-8). life, or influence would have to be judged a violation of the contract be­ Twenty Years Later tween a teacher and the College" (p. Almost twenty years after the Var­ 8). nado controversy, it appears that a Remember Doug Varnado? number of "young churchgoers" have indeed grown into "church leaders" Perhaps, the most celebrated test­ who would now like to see "the music case of Lipscomb University's oppo­ issue in Churches of Christ" simply sition to the use of instrumental music "fade away." in worship arose in 1999 when facul­ ty-member Doug Varnado was forced After all, the 2019 document freely to resign for having lent his "influ­ admits: ence" to acceptance of the practice at "It is no longer the case, as it was his home congregation, Henderson­ for many years, that 100% of the ville's Community Church of Christ. members of the Lipscomb faculty "If Community church is going to belong to Churches of Christ"-­ be an instrumental congregation, despite the founders' express decree that's not in accord with our policy," that all "regular members of the facul­ Lipscomb's sixteenth President Steve ty, shall be members of the Church of Flatt told a reporter, "Our identity for Christ, in full sympathy with the" the last 108 years has included a cap-

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 29 strict "teachings" emphasized in the on the faculty is loyalty to New Tes­ school's property deed! tament Christianity as understood and traditionally practiced among church­ Indisputably, many Lipscomb fac­ es of Christ," including their historic ulty members now belong to congre­ "opposition to such false doctrines as gations that have recently developed a the use of instrumental music in wor­ new identity by adding an "instrumen­ ship"? Or, was Varnado simply a vic­ tal" service to their program of wor­ tim guilty of being ahead of his time, ship. President Lowery is often seen paving the way for a new President to attending Otter Creek or Harpeth do penance for his firing through the Hills, both of which began offering even wider "influence" of successors instrumental worship in 2015. like Shelly and Hicks? That same year he hired as Lip­ Re-affirm or Conform scomb's "Distinguished Professor of Philosophy and Religion" Dr. Rubel In the past, Lipscomb University Shelly, whose Woodmont Hills regularly reaffirmed the school's church introduced instruments in commitment to scriptural acapella 2018, shortly after Shelly moved to worship as one of the "distinguishing preach at the Spring Hill campus of features of the institution." Will it the Maury Hill Church, where he now now respect its founder's wishes follows a full band with his sermons. enough to measure its new practices (httos://www. youtube.corn/watch ?v= by its old policies? Will it, like its Khi8tUiy3Mk). founder, insist that administrators and teachers betraying "sympathy" for In 2016, Lipscomb Bible Professor instrumental worship "resign or be John Mark Hicks helped begin the All removed"? Or, will change its old Saints Church of Christ, which meets policy to conform to its new ecumeni­ on Sunday afternoons at the Vine cal practice, watering-down its princi­ Street Christian Church and alternates ples to tolerate the very species of instrumental services. rebellion David Lipscomb admon­ The congregation presently boast­ ished it to guard against? ing perhaps the greatest number of Will it disown his legacy and sur­ Lipscomb students and faculty mem­ render the fortress he constructed in bers is still the Ethos Church, a mis­ order to "re-engage" his ideological sion work funded by Harpeth Hills in enemies, effectively returning his 2008 which "has multiple worship property to the mainstream of the di­ services, all with instruments" (Chris­ gressing movement he himself felt tian Chronicle, April1, 2012). constrained to abandon? Can Lipscomb University still say As the 1962 Faculty Handbook that "A prerequisite for membership emphasized, such distinguishing fea- 30 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r tures as opposition to instrumental Lipscomb University's music in worship Breach of Trust " ... are essentials which compose the very warp and woof of the Col­ Andy Erwin lege. They are not subject to modifica­ With his own hand, David Lip­ tion, but rather the effort to make scomb wrote, "The land hereby con­ them a reality in the hearts of all is a veyed is to be used for maintaining a fundamental part of our work. Any school in which in addition to other compromise or surrender of these branches of learning, the Bible as the commitments would leave no logical recorded will of God and the only justification for the existence of the standard of faith and practice in reli­ institution. They are received by us in gion, excluding all human systems sacred trust from all who have labored and opinions, and all innovations, to make possible the campus we en­ inventions and devices of man from joy, and must be passed untarnished to the service and worship of God shall those who will come after us. How be taught as regular daily study to all faithfully we discharge this trust will who shall attend said school, and for determine our continuing ability to no other purpose inconsistent with this stand as an institution of peculiar pur­ object, this condition being herein poses and holy aspirations. If we inserted at the request of said Nash­ should fail, the College would lose its ville Bible School, of which David identity and become only another Lipscomb was one of the founders, small unit in the vast complex of mass and the same is hereby declared fun­ education" (pp. 2-3). damental and shall adhere to the Let us pray that this sacred trust premises conveyed as an imperative will not be tarnished by the upcoming restriction on their use so long as the "Campus-wide Conversation" over same shall be owned by said Nash­ "Lipscomb University's Centering ville Bible School ... Core;" for, it constitutes a critical "All directors of said corporation, or juncture that will likely determine trustees of the school, and regular whether the school will reaffirm the members of the faculty, shall be distinguishing features of scriptural members of the Church of Christ, in worship memorialized in its founder's full sympathy with the teachings deed, or else forever "lose its identity" above set forth, and desirous to carry as David Lipscomb's school. them out. Any one failing to have those qualifications shall resign or ----~---- be removed ... it being our purpose and intention to impress the trust de­ clared by said limitations and re-

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 31 strictions perpetually upon the prop­ (2) Lipscomb University is in vio­ erty" (1904 Deed Book of Davidson lation of the restrictive clause in their County, Tennessee, pp. 560-562). original deed to consider those who Now read a recent posting for an are not "members of the Church of adjunct Bible professor in Costa Rica Christ, in full sympathy with the as part of Lipscomb's study abroad teachings above set forth." program: According to brother Lipscomb's "Lipscomb University is a private, own handwritten deed, every person Christian university associated with now associated with Lipscomb Uni­ the fellowship of the Church of Christ versity who is not in full sympathy and governed by religious tenets held with and desirous to carry out the by the Church of Christ. Hiring school's founding purpose of main­ Statement For graduate, adjunct, and taining a school which excludes "all visiting faculty positions, preference human systems and opinions, and all will be given to applicants who are innovations, inventions and devices of members of the Church of Christ, and man from the service and worship of consideration will be given to appli­ God' should "resign" or "be re­ cants who are committed to the moved." Christian faith." If they are not removed, the land Two things stand out to me in this which was the Lipscomb farm should job posting: (I) it is laughable to say be returned to an heir of the Lipscomb that Lipscomb University is "gov­ family. This is the right thing to do. I erned by religious tenets held by the would prefer to see the digressive Church of Christ" as long as Randy faction at Lipscomb resign - from the Lowery is the president. He and his board down to the custodians if that is wife have even preached for various what it takes. If this means closing the denominations and denominational school for several semesters in order functions in the Nashville area. to return to these founding principles, so be it. Moreover, you would be hard­ pressed to find even one Bible teacher If Lipscomb University will not do who is sympathetic to the school's what it honorable then they should be founding purpose, or the doctrines forced to do what is lawful and return which the mainstream of the brother­ the land to the family. Now this raises hood believe. The faculty of Lip­ another question: is there a member of scomb is full of revisionist historians the Lipscomb family who remains who are attempting to rewrite our his­ loyal to the founding purposes of the tory in order to justifY their transgres­ school and will hold the board and sions. administration to the fire and force the issue?

32 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r The West Fayetteville Church of Christ

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Gospel Gleaner THE GOSPEL GLEANER WEST FAYETTEVILLE CHURCH OF CHRIST PO BOX456 FAYETTEVILLE, TN 37334

Return Service Requested 1' - , · ·.' ·- ~... ~-- "-r • ·· - · - -::-- ·, Mormon Polytli~iS!fl~' P ! ?.0; Do MEim Become Gods? p. 28 July-August 2019 n For the Lord, His Word, and His Church

Things We Must Do So 111e l'Vo rks Tlzat A re Essential to tile Kingdom of God

Roger Shepherd Evangelism: Personal and Public p, 2

John T. Polk, II Works of Benevolence and Kindness p. 5

Ronald Bryant Growing in God's Grace and Knowledge p, 7

Raymond Elliott Promoting Brotherly Love and Fellowship p.9

Also in this issue

Mark McWhorter Heaps p. 12

Douglas Hoff The Church Does Not Have a Money Problem p. 13

Gerald Cowan Preaching Can Cause Quite a Stir! p, 14

Hugh Fulford Remembering George Bailey p. 17

Mike Kiser The Unchanging Christ p. 19

Ernest Underwood Speaking the Truth in Love p. 31 "The Churches of Christ Greet You" (Romans 16:16)

The West Fayetteville Church of Christ is pleased to bring you the Gospel Gleaner. Are you familiar with the churches of Christ? Have you ever attended our services before?

Faithful churches of Christ desire to return to the New Testament and to be the church of the Bible. In the Bible, we find that the church is the assembly of all those who have been called out of the darkness of sin by obeying the gospel. These souls are added by God to the spiritual body of Christ, which is His church (Acts 2:42, 47; Ephesians 1:22-23).

The church belongs to Christ. It is His church. We, therefore, seek to honor Christ as our Lord in our worship, teaching, and daily walk.

One can be added to this sacred assembly and spiritual kingdom by hearing the gospel preached (Romans 10:17); believing the facts concerning Christ as revealed in the gospel (John 8:24); repenting of sin (Luke 13:3, 5); confessing faith in Christ (Romans 10:9-10); and by being baptized into Christ (Romans 6:3; Colossians 2:11-13; Galatians 3:26- 27) to wash sins away by the blood of Christ (Acts 22:16; Ephesians 1:7).

For more information about the church, or God's plan of salvation, we offer free Bible correspondence courses and personal Bible studies. Call or write to us.

The Gospel Gleaner PO Box 456 Fayetteville, TN 3 7334 www.gospelgleaner.com

Andy Erwin, Editor

Correspondences, news and notes, and article considerations can be sent electronically to [email protected]. The West Fayetteville Church of Christ reserves the right of discretion in deciding which correspondences, news, notes, and articles to publish. Inside this Issue Gospel Gleaner Vol.31 • No.4 Andy Erwin

WRITERS FOR THIS IssuE ~ In this issue of the Gospel Gleaner we will be encouraging brethren in some of things we must continue to do as Christians. Ronald Bryant Evangelism, benevolence, spiritual growth, Huntsville, Alabama and brotherly love are too important to ne­ glect. I believe you will find the articles to Gerald Cowan ' be informative and encouraging. Marion, Illinois Also, in this issue of the paper are two Raymond Elliott articles addressing the Mormon doctrines of Prattville, Alabama , polytheism and deification. In a recent trip ~ to Idaho, via Salt Lake City, I was reminded Andy Erwin ~ of the widespread influence of this heresy in Fayetteville, Tennessee the western part of the United States. I even Jackson Erwin ~ overheard a Mormon trying to evangelize a ~ woman in the airport, who happened to be Fayetteville, Tennessee confined to a wheel chair and could not get Douglas Hoff ~ away! The articles expose the movement for Marble, Pennsylvania i what it is - heresy. Also, you will find an ] advertisement for Charles A. Shook's book, Mike Kiser -~ The True Origin of the Book of Mormon. Sylacauga, Alabama ig Sam Hester has reprinted this book. If you Mark McWhorter have ever been curious about the full extent of the fraudulent claims of this movement, Chula Vista, Alabama you will find this work to be worthy of your John T. Polk, II ~ study. Oneida, Tennessee One last note, three brotherhood Roger Shepherd bookstores happily carry the Gleaner and disperse it freely. These bookstores are Mars Montgomery, Alabama Hill Bookstore in Florence, Alabama, Ernest Underwood DeHoff Christian Bookstore in Murfreesbo­ ro, Tennessee, and Christian Family Atlanta, Georgia :m .~ Bookstore in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Should you need anything in the way of ~"""'""""""""'"".....,.....,.-"""""'""'""""""""'""""'"'"~ study materials, VBS, or church supplies, we recommend them highly.

Gospel Gleaner 11 Evangelism: Personal and Public Roger Shepherd

"Beloved, let us love one another, for KNOWING GOD love is from God; and everyone who What does "knowing God" mean ioves is born of God and knows God. in this text and in the context of twen­ The one who does not love does not ty-first century evangelism? Those know God, for God is love. By this who are loving others are "knowing the love of God was manifested in us, God" (4:7, 8). The phrase in Greek is that God has sent His only begotten ginoskei ton theon (present tense) Son into the world so that we might meaning "to arrive at a knowledge of live through Him. In this is love, not someone or something, know, know that we loved God, but that He loved about, make acquaintance of' that is us and sent His Son to be the propitia­ in the context, God (4:2). 1 tion for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one John uses this term with a combi­ another. No one has seen God at any nation of two genitive constructions to time; if we love one another, God be translated by this we know that abides in us, and His love is perfected Jesus Christ remains in us, namely by in us" (I John 4:7-12, NASB). the spirit (4:13)? We have an ac­ quaintance and relationship with God The most significant approach to through biblical knowledge from evangelism in the twenty-first century Christ and the Spirit. In 1 John 2:3 the is relational evangelism. Relational perfect tense indicates that believers evangelism seeks to build a loving know God, or we have known Him relationship with God through Christ and our knowledge and obedience to and then with one another in the His commandments still stands. Thus, church and community. John argues that saints have a person­ Does John give us an appropriate al relationship with God through the purpose statement for twenty­ knowledge of His word. This is signif­ first century evangelism in 1 John 4:7- icant to evangelism in the twenty-first 12? I desire to exegete this passage century. with this aim in mind. First, what is the teaching and application to the 1 first readers? Second, does this pas­ Walter Bauer, A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other sage teach principles for twenty-first Early Christian Literature, ed. Frederick century evangelism? W. Danker, 3rd ed. (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2000), 199. (abbr. BDAG) 2BDAG, 200. 21Gospel Gleaner Born of God tic of those who have been born of God, loving God and community. In the phrase "born of God" John uses the perfect passive of gennao LOVE ONE ANOTHER meaning has been born of God (4:7). The community can see a manifes­ The first believers were already in that tation of God who is the source of relationship with God at the time of love in our love for Him and one an­ this writing. This word ties this first other in the congregation. In this the letter of John to his Gospel. Gennao relationship with God and loving one in this context means "to become the another "manifested the love of God" parent of, beget by procreation ac­ (4:9). cording to the Spirit's design and the new birth spiritually; thus, I became What does "manifest" mean? The your father as Christians through the aorist passive form of phaneroe liter­ gospel (4:7).3 ally means "to cause to become known, disclose, show, make known, In the new birth of the water and thus, being translated become public the Spirit, God literally becomes our knowledge, be disclosed, become Father spiritually! This cannot be real known (4:9).5 God and His gospel without a personal relationship with become public knowledge through God. In the Great Commission Jesus love practiced and expressed by commanded the disciples to "make Christians to God and one another. disciples of all the nations, baptizing Phaneroe is primarily is "a manifesta­ them in the name of the Father" thus, tion of God who is love, therefore, "to a relationship (Matt. 28:19), "having cause to become visible, reveal, ex­ been regenerated by Christ"4 in con­ pose publicly with relatively more version and then he/she teaches this to focus on the sensory aspect than on others. the cognitive (4:9)."6 Love for God God is a loving Father, and based and others is an outward manifestation upon this relationship we go and make that will draw the lost to Christ. other disciples. I argue that John is Relational Evangelism doing outreach both to the congrega­ tion of God and to those in the com­ Love for God and one another are munity at large. This is a characteris- a very significant qualities for twenty­ first century evangelism. This is rela­ tional evangelism. It is building rela­ tionships with the people of God to 3BDAG, 193. maintain faith and with people in the 4Danie1 L. Akin, The New American Commentary an Exegetical and Theologi­ cal Exposition of Holy Scripture 1, 2, 3 John, Vol. 38 (Nashville, TN: B and H 5 Akin, 1048. Publishing, 2001), 177. 6Akin. Gospel Gleaner 13 community to bring them to faith in death on the cross." 8 It is "cross" sal­ Christ. Evangel ism that reaches the vation through the love of God! un-churched in a postmodern society Therefore, God satisfied His wrath for is built on relationships. si n in Jesus, the propitiation for sin . This is the message for twenty-first Relational is a word that means century evangelism. relationship, a parinership, to share common life, a connection, associa­ CONCLUSION tion, or involvement between people. In this passage, John provides a The connection that people of all na­ statement to be applied in the context tions make with one another is from of twenty-first century relational the example of God and Jesus. The evangelism. We have an inner motiva­ relational approach is highly recom­ tion for evangelism. First, God loved mended as it seeks to build a strong us and sent His Son as the propitiation relationship with lost people. It seeks or atoning sacrifice and Savior for the to build a rel ati onship with the never­ world. Second, as we love God and churched, and then evangelize. It also one another, we share Jesus with the has a holding power to keep the con­ lost. This is the heart of evangelism verted saved. Chri stians can success­ today! This certainly applies to twen­ fully share their faith in Christ in to­ ty-first century evangelism. day's churches after a relationship has been established.

JESUS OUR PROPITlATION

The first converts to Christianity were taught that Jesus is the "propitia­ tion" (hilasmos) for their sins ( 4:9- 10). Jesus is the "appeasement neces­ sitated by sin, expiation, sacrifice to atone, a sin-offering."7 John continues one of hi s themes concerning how sinners can live "through Him" (Je­ Church Growth and Membership Involvement in a Contemporwy Community: Relational sus) and then "manifest the love of Personal Teaching God" to the lost world ( 4:9). Roger Shepherd Propitiati on as "the standard of $15.95 love is not what humans feel but what God has revealed in Christ's life and

8 Jeremy Royal Howard, Ed itor, Hol­ man Study Bible NKJV Edition (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 20 13), 7 BDAG, 474. 2138. 41 Gospel Gleaner Works otlenevolence and Kindness

John T. Polk, II

On Paul's journey to Rome his lusts and pleasures, living in malice shipwreck let him encounter "unusu­ and envy, hateful and hating one an­ al" (unexpected, out of the ordinary, other. But when the kindness and the like the miracles in Acts 19: 11-12) love of God our Savior toward man "kindness" (philanthropia, love of appeared." humans) from "natives" (barbarians, God showed His love for all man­ people of a foreign language). kind by sending "our Lord Jesus "Now when they had escaped, they Christ, who gave Himself for our sins, then found out that the island was that He might deliver us from this called Malta. And the natives showed present evil age, according to the will us unusual kindness; for they kindled of our God and Father" (Galatians a fire and made us all welcome, be­ 1:3-4). The Divine love for mankind cause of the rain that was falling and is thus universally identified. because of the cold" (Acts 28:1-2, A different Greek word is used for NKJV). God's "kindness" in Ephesians 2:7: Paul said these "barbarians" not "that in the ages to come He might only met him and his entourage's im­ show the exceeding riches of His mediate needs, but later stated that, grace in His kindness toward us in "They also honored us in many ways; Christ Jesus." and when we departed, they provided Christians must strive to have more such things as were necessary" (Acts of this God-like quality. "But love 28:10). Their love ofhumanity helped your enemies, do good, and lend, hop­ Paul go on his way. ing for nothing in return; and your Jesus did not use this word, but reward will be great, and you will be described the action when He said the sons of the Most High. For He is kind Samaritan "had compassion" (Luke to the unthankful and evil" (Luke 10:33-35). It is unexpected to find a 6:35). love of mankind in a Samaritan, or in God's "kindness" to His enemies Barbarians, but it can be found. should also be reflected in His chil­ The only other time the word "phi­ dren. Sinners must become "sons of lanthropy" (translated "kindness") is God through faith in Christ Jesus. For used in the New Testament, is when as many of you as were baptized into used of God in Titus 3:3-4: "For we Christ have put on Christ" (Galatians ourselves were also once foolish, dis­ 3:26-27). In putting on Christ, "as the obedient, deceived, serving various elect of God, holy and beloved, put on Gospel Gleaner IS tender mercies, kindness, humility, (Ephesians 2:1 0). "Therefore, as we meekness, longsuffering" (Colossians have opportunity, let us do good to all, 3:12); and to become "kind to one especially to those who are of the another, tenderhearted, forgiving one household of faith" (Galatians 6:10). another, even as God in Christ forgive Supporters of the gospel do good you" (Ephesians 4:32). works ranging from the women who Peter summarized Jesus' life by "provided for Him from their sub­ showing "how God anointed Jesus of stance" (Luke 8: 1-3); to "Mnason of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and Cyprus, an early disciple, with whom with power, who went about doing we were to lodge" (Acts 21:16); to good and healing all who were op­ sending the faithful "forward on their pressed by the devil, for God was with journey in a manner worthy of God" Him" (Acts 10:38). "Doing good" (3 John 6). "Good works" support literally means "working well." It everyone and everything Jesus Christ certainly applies to Jesus, for He nev­ supported while He was on earth! er failed to meet the needs of anyone "Good works" cannot support, or who approached Him with a request encourage sins which violate God's for benevolence. word. "And have no fellowship with Jesus helped people with miracles the unfruitful works of darkness, but to prove that "God was with Him," rather expose them" (Ephesians 5: 11 ). but Christians must prove that God is "Good works" should not support or with us by loving humankind with be included in "works of the flesh" good works. Our "good works" may (Galatians 5:19-21). relieve someone's burden so that they Christians should "not forget to do may look to God. Jesus said, "Let good and to share, for with such sacri­ your light so shine before men, that fices God is well pleased" (Hebrews they may see your good works and 13:16). glorify your Father in heaven" (Mat­ thew 5:16). Our "good works" may show our honorable conduct "among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation" (1 Peter 2: 12). Christians "are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared before­ hand that we should walk in them"

6IGospel Gleaner Growing in God's Grace and Knowledge

Ronald Bryant

The words contained in 2 Peter His obedience to the Father. They are 3: 18, seem simple, yet they are pro­ undeniably the basis and the arena of found, even majestic, in what they the Christian life. require .. It is obvious that the duty Peter understood how the Lord has expressed in 2 Peter 3: 18 is not op­ "given to us exceedingly great and tional. precious promises, that through these Two powerful concepts are set you may be partakers of the divine forth: (I) The grace of our Lord, and nature, having escaped the corruption (2) The knowledge of our Lord. Jesus that is the world through lust" (2 Peter is the source of the grace that brings 1:4, KJV). Thus, "for this very reason life and hope. He is also the source of giving all diligence, add to your faith the knowledge (i.e. the truth) that virtue, to virtue knowledge, to leads to life. He is the grace to which knowledge self-control, to self-control we turn, and the source of the perseverance, to perseverance godli­ knowledge that we are to fully em­ ness, to godliness brotherly kindness, brace. He is the subject and the object and to brotherly kindness love" (2 of the gospel; the focus of our faith. Peter 1:5-7). Moreover, "if these things are yours and abound you will 2 Peter begins with two powerful be neither be barren nor unfruitful in concepts: (1) The knowledge of God, the knowledge of our Lord Jesus and (2) The divine power. The Christ" (2 Peter 1:8). Upon these ex­ knowledge spoken of is a special kind hortations, Christians are ultimately of knowledge. It is the knowledge that urged to make their calling and elec­ is complete. Jesus is the source of that tion sure (2 Peter 1: 10-11 ). knowledge; of the truth which He lived, taught, and authored. The "di­ Some of the dangers Christians vine power" is that which John refer­ would face are then spelled out (2: 1- enced as "grace and truth" (John 3: 14). Peter admonished believers to 1:14). be diligent to be found by Christ, in peace without spot and blameless, and The Lord's deeds and words were value the longsuffering of the Lord (2 ruled by grace and established by Peter 3: 14-15). He warned them, "be­ truth. All was by divine power, espe­ ware lest you fall from your own cially His resurrection (Romans 1:4). steadfastness, being led away with the He was God's ultimate gift. His mor­ error of the wicked" (2 Peter 3:17). al excellence, matchless teaching, Rather than being led astray, the apos- sinless life, and sacrifice manifested Gospel Gleaner 17 tie desired for Christians to "grow in It is only in genuine commitment the grace and the knowledge and the to Christ that a person can be united Lord Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 3: 18). with Christ. It is only in personal communion with Him that one can The last verse of 2 Peter is simple, grow in His grace (His character - His yet profound. It is enduring and per­ likeness), and in His knowledge (the petually valid. The life of faith is vital truth He proclaimed, lived, and au­ and productive. Growth is essential. thored). It is only in knowing Him, in Spiritual growth must be earnestly living in His presence and purpose, desired. It is axiomatic that if it is not that one can be a partaker of the na­ desired it wi II not be sought nor can it ture, add the virtues required (2 Peter be obtained. 1 :5-8), and make his calling and elec­ The arena of growth for the believ­ tion sure" (2 Peter 1: 1 0-11 ). er is specific. It is obtained in the grace and the knowledge of Christ. These concepts are central in the gos­ pel; in its reception and in its applica­ tion. In this passage "grace" is far more that "God's good will;" it has everything to do with the being and the character of Christ, what He ac­ complished, and provided. The word " knowledge" is not merely knowledge about Christ, but the knowledge, the truth that He proclaimed and au­ thored. It has to do with that which He taught and epitomized (cf. He­ brews 1: 1-4 ; 2:1-3; 5:8-9).

To reiterate, the "grace of Christ" has to do with His grace - His charac­ ter and being; "the knowledge of Great Doctrines ofthe Bible Christ" has to do with His word - the words of the truth of the gospel which Robert Waggoner He authored. It is His character and $22.95 will, made known in His work in His Order from Gospel Light Books word that makes and sustains believ­ ers. Yet, it is readily apparent that (870) 379-2412 each believer must choose to lay hold and make application of that which is supplied in and by Christ.

SI Gospr'i Gleaner Promoting Brotherlv Love and FellowshiP

Raymond Elliott

It should be the desire of every are showing this love to all the broth­ disciple of Jesus Christ to promote ers throughout Macedonia. But we greater love among members of the urge you, brothers, to excel more and body of Christ. However, to accom­ more" (I Thessalonians 4:9, 10). The plish such a wonderful effort, one fact is, the more we love God, the must, of course, possess love for his greater love we will have for His chil­ brothers and sisters in his heart. dren! Jesus said, "A new commandment Perhaps the word, 'promote' does I give to you, that you love one anoth­ not always carry the correct connota­ er: just as I have loved you, you also tion in spiritual matters. Of course, it are to love one another. By this all does not intend to mean that we people will know that you are my should 'promote' someone or some disciples, if you have love for one product to be bought. Some of the another" (John 13:34, 35, ESV). synonyms seem to present suitable One of the ways that we have meanings. Words like "encourage, "passed from death to life," is "be­ foster, nurture," may be preferred. cause we love the brethren" (1 John The writer of Hebrews (1 0:24) 3:14). The apostle Peter wrote, "Since wrote, "And let us consider one an­ you have purified your souls in obey­ other in order to stir up love and good ing the truth through the Spirit in sin­ works ... " Thus, we are admonished to cere love of the brethren, love one encourage brethren to grow in their another fervently with a pure heart" (1 love for one another. But, how may Peter I :22). If a Christian claims to we achieve this precious goal in our love God, but hates his brother, "he is lives? a liar" and he "has not seen God" (I We can exhort brethren to be faith­ John 4:20). ful (Hebrew 3: 13) and to attend the Loving our brothers and sisters in worship assemblies (Hebrews 10:24, Christ is a spiritually maturing pro­ 25). We can encourage brethren to cess. Consider Paul's observations of manifest the same care for all the the church in Thessalonica concerning members of one's congregation (1 their love for their brethren, "Now Cor. 12:25) and to help a brother or about brotherly love, you do not need sister who is need (I John 3:17, 18). If anyone to write to you, because you necessary, our love should be so great yourselves have been taught by God as to even "lay down our lives for the to love one another. And indeed, you brethren"(l John I: 16).

Gospel Gleaner 19 We are to be "forgiving one anoth­ the members of your congrega­ er, even as God in Christ forgave you" tion. (Ephesians 4:32). Of course, we In 1 Peter 2:17, the apostle Peter should always pray for our brothers gave this admonition, "Honor all peo­ and sisters in Christ (James 5:16). ple. Love the brotherhood. Fear In many ways we can foster broth­ God. Honor the king." We should erly love in the family of God. In a love the collective family of God, congregation of Christ, there are ex­ even though we will never meet eve­ pedient methods and opportunities ryone in this lifetime. wherein we can encourage greater However, there is the possibility of brotherly love. knowing brethren of other congrega­ • Plan a common meal where tions in a general area. This was done brethren can sit down and visit more in generations past, mainly be­ one another while eating. cause of gospel meetings being con­ ducted by various churches of Christ. • Divide the members into different I remember hearing brother Rex A. groups for the purpose of visiting Turner, Sr., say, "I am glad that I the sick and others who are in grew up in the 'gospel meeting era."' need of attention for various rea­ sons. This will give brothers and Still, there are special occasions sisters an opportunity to become when brethren can attend events that better acquainted. afford opportunities for brothers and sisters in Christ to get acquainted with • In larger congregations, it would one another. It is good that we be­ be good if members would come friends with our brothers and change locations where they sisters from different congregations normally sit during the assem­ and grow in our love for them. blies in order to meet, in a per­ sonal manner, members they had I want to mention the example of not met previously. congregations in a county in this state (Alabama) who support one another It is very important that members • during their gospel meetings. This do not form a 'group' wherein might not always be wise; but, during they only speak to and associate the gospel meetings in this area the with their close friends. other churches will dismiss their • Inviting members of the church Wednesday night Bible classes and into your home for a visit is a attend the on-going meeting. I know good way to become better ac­ of no other county in my personal quainted. Or, plan a time when experience where these rural and you could visit in the homes of small town congregations are closer together in their love for one another.

10 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r In conclusion, l want to mention When sorrow flows from eye to eye, the passage of scripture found in 2 And joy from heati to heati. Peter I :5-I I, wherein are mentioned When love in one delightful stream the qualities of character that should Thro' every bosom flows, be found in the heart and life of every When union sweet and dear esteem In faithful Christian. Please note that every action glows. "brotherly love" (ASV, "brotherly Love is the golden chain that binds kindness," ESV), is placed next to The happy souls above; "love," the "greatest," as mentioned in And he 's an heir ofheav' n who finds 1 Corinthians 13:13). Also, please His bosom glow with love." contemplate the promises found in -Joseph Swain, 1792 this text for the Christians whose life is fi lied with these ' graces.' " For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither baiTen nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, breth­ ren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stum­ ble; for so an entrance will be sup­ plied to you abundantly into the ever­ lasting kingdom of our Lord and Sav­ ior Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 1:8-11 , NKJV). What precious promises! What blessed assurance! Faith will become sight, hope will become a reality, and our love for God and for all the re­ deemed will be eternal! Early Morning Meditations Read carefully the lyrics of this beautiful hymn, "How Sweet, How Raymond Elliott Heavenly": $9.95 " How sweet how heav' nly is the sight, When those that love the Lord (For all books advettised 111 the ln one another's peace delight, And so Gospel Gleaner, please be sure fulfill the word. check their availability with broth­ When each can feel his brother's sigh, erhood bookstores.) And with him bear apart;

Gospel Gleaner 111 HEAPS

Mark Me Whorter

In 2 Chronicles 31, King Hezekiah Israelite should have been willing to · led the Israelites back to a proper rela­ do so as well. tionship with God. He appointed Le­ The people were commanded by vites and priests to rotations in service the King to give their portions to the to the Temple. David had originally priests and Levites. This offering was done this in l Chronicles 25. Some to encourage those who gave service were appointed to prophesy with mu­ in the Temple. God had commanded sic. Others were for porters. Some such support when He gave the Law were in charge of the gates. Others of Moses. But, the Israelites had not were to be officers and judges. been following the Law for some Sacrifices were to be offered for time. Hezekiah was doing what he burnt and peace offerings. Burnt of­ could to bring the Israelites into con­ ferings were to bring the worshipper formity with the Law. into the proper relationship with God. As soon as the people heard what Peace offerings were in thanksgiving Hezekiah wanted them to do, they did for the peace with God that the burnt it. In verse five, we are told they offerings brought. The priests had to brought an abundance of all the fruit offer sacrifices first be sanctified for of the fields. They also brought their such service, then they offered for the tithes. people. There was to be praise in the gates. Verse seven tells us that they con­ tinued to bring things to the Temple Before all of this was done, the for five months. Verse six records that people destroyed all the idols of pagan they laid up 'heaps.' The Hebrew worship. We are told they broke, cut word means 'piles.' In this verse, the down, and threw down until they had word is doubled. It says 'heaps, 'utterly destroyed them all.' They heaps.' This emphasis lets us know were committed to returning to God. there was a very large amount con­ Hezekiah appropriated some of his tributed. There was so much, even wealth to sustain the Temple service. Hezekiah asked why there were so He did this out of a good heart and to many piles. He was told that the peo­ be a proper example to the people. If ple had brought so much the priests the King was willing to give a signifi­ and Levites could not use it all in this cant portion of his wealth, then each amount of time. He was told that the Lord had blessed them tremendously.

12 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r God had told the Israelites that if THE CHURCH they followed His commands, and obeyed Him, He would bless them. DOES NOT HAVE A Azariah, a chief priest, tells Hezekiah MONEY PROBLEM that God indeed blessed the people. God had blessed them with a great Douglas Hoff harvest of all things ofthe field.

It would have been easy for the In America today most churches people to keep almost all of it for do not have a money problem. Sure, themselves. That is what many people there are plenty of small congrega­ do today. They receive great blessings tions that do not have a full time and then decide to keep them for their preacher. Some churches have full own desires. God is given a small time preachers who work part time or amount (if any) of what He provided. even full time jobs so they can preach and teach the gospel. Often, the In this instance, the Israelites had preachers' wives also work to sup­ the right attitude. They recognized plement the family income. Other that God provides all, they knew that churches employ retired preachers those in the Temple required suste­ who have Social Security income. nance as commanded by God, they knew that daily sacrifices were re­ Some may think this shows quired, and they wanted to show God churches do have a money problem. how much they loved Him. May all To a degree, that may be true. In gen­ of us follow their example! eral though, the church does not have a money problem, but we may be suf­ fering from a giving problem. Look at the life of the average church mem­ ber. Does he or she have a house to live in , clothes to wear, and food to eat (cf. I Tim. 6:8)? If we twenty­ first century Americans are not care­ ful , we may allow the deceitfulness of riches to enter our hearts (Mark 4: I 9), by concluding we are not rich and Th e True Origin ofth e Book of Mormon need "just a little bit more" (I Tim. 6:9-I 0). Charles A. Shook Most American Christians today $8.00 have more than enough money to take Order from Hester Publications care of the basic necessities of life. (731) 989-5872 One reason some congregations

Gospel Gleaner 113 struggle financially is due to the Most churches have plenty of Christian's money being tied up pay­ money. Sadly, only a very small per­ ing for houses, cars, entertainment, centage of it will ever be in the collec­ luxuries, etc. Is it sinful to enjoy the tion plate on the Lord's Day. Those fruit of our labors? No, the scriptures who are "rich" in this present age are tell us that "the living God gives us commanded to be "ready to give, will­ richly all things to enjoy" (I Tim. ing to share, storing up for themselves 6: 17). Abraham and Job were both a good foundation for the time to blessed financially by God and they come, that they may lay hold on eter­ are counted among the faithful (James nal life" (1 Tim. 6:18-19, NKJV). It 2:23; 5:11). Being rich is not inherent­ seems the church has long suffered ly bad but one's attitude toward riches from a giving problem, not a money will determine if money is his god. problem. Remember, covetousness is called idolatry (Eph. 5:5; Col. 3:5).

PREACHING CAN CAUSE QUITE A STIR!

Gerald Cowan

Peter said he wanted to stir up the have outgrown this "ancient and obso­ hearts of those he wrote to, in a posi­ lete" Bible. tive and productive way (2 Peter 3:1). Preaching against liquor stirs up The gospel truth can in fact stir people the social drinkers and drunkards. The in a negative way, no matter how same principle applies to other drugs, careful, loving, and kind the preacher including tobacco - imagine preach­ is. Some thought Paul and Silas turned ing against marijuana which is well on their world "upside down "(Acts it way to the same legal status as al­ 17:6). cohol and tobacco. Those most heavi­ Preaching about God and certainly ly and hopelessly addicted raise their about the one true God will stir up voices most loudly in objection to atheists and idolaters. Preaching di­ any negative mention of their mind­ vine creation stirs up the evolutionists bending illusion-maker. and materialists. Preaching on marriage, divorce, Preaching morality and absolute and the home stirs the adulterer, the truth stirs up the immoral and the rela­ delinquent children, and the delin­ tivist who think in terms of social quent parents. It also stirs the homo­ cultural viability. Preaching the au­ sexuals and the transgenders. Gov­ thority of scripture stirs the liberal ernments, courts, schools (pre-school post-modern crowd who think we through post-graduate schools), perse- 14 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r cute and prosecute critics of current scientific, post-human, post-spiritual culture for "hate crimes." generation who seems to think of God as the Great-Freebie-Giver who en­ Preaching on work stirs the lazy. joys watching us enjoy ourselves and Preaching against gambling may stir doesn't want to restrict our freedom. up the state and the nation, as well as all those who hope to get rich by Unless the world and the church gambling rather than by work. Preach­ are now perfect, we still need to do a ing on honesty stirs the dishonest, the lot of stirring. liar, the cheat, and the hypocrite. There are some common expres­ Preaching about proper speech and sions that show a misunderstanding of civility stirs the gossip, tale-peddler the preacher's intention and effort. and rumor-monger, and the whole Some think it is a compliment to tell news and information industry the preacher, "You really stepped on (properly derided as "fake news" me­ my toes." That often indicates that a dia). Preaching against the debauch­ temporary and soon-forgotten pain or ery and corruption and elevation of discomfort has been suffered. But evil in Hollyweird and the entertain­ there is usually no change in perfor­ ment industry stirs up the "stars" who mance or activity. They may have like to think they are the epitome sore toes in the auditorium but they and apex of everyone's dreams and are able to walk as usual and with the aspirations but, as a class, are beneath pain having moved upward to lodge the bottom of the bottom dregs, the as frowns and grimaces on the face by absolute nadir of humanity. the time they leave it. Even in religion, in the churches Some think it is a compliment to and the church - there are matters of say, "Our preacher preaches over our particular concern. Preaching on mod­ heads." What that means is that his esty (common a few decades ago but sermons cannot be understood and hardly ever mentioned now) stirs the applied by his audience of ordinary immodest and the attention-seeker. people. But what good is a sermon if Preaching about attendance stirs the no one understands it? And what good irregular and indifferent attenders. is preaching what one ought to do if Preaching faithfulness stirs the un­ nobody does it, or even pretends that faithful. Preaching dedication and he intends to do it? The result would commitment stirs the uncommited. be no change and no growth, no im­ Preaching about giving stirs the cov­ provement in performance and activi­ etous and stingy. Preaching about ty. The church joins the world in order almost anything that limits freedom to to be allowed to exist in the world. be whatever you want to be in the That condition stirs a few - not as present post-Christian church stirs up the post-modem post-moral, post- G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 15 many as it should, but at least a few - When the word of God enters your preachers. heart, pricks your heart, cuts your heart, and burns your heart there's a No preacher is content to step on chance you will be offended. There's the toes or preach over the heads of a chance that you, not being a truth­ people. Actually, that is a contradic­ seeker, will resist the truth and the tion in terms. If it is hitting their toes truth-speaker (Acts 7:54, 57-58). In it can't be over their heads. Maybe the that case both the Lord and I will be two expressions should not be applied deeply pained. But there's also a to the same sermon, or to the same chance that you will be moved to ac­ person. cept it, obey it, adjust your life to it Preachers want to share the truth. (Acts 2:37, John 3:20-21), and when They want the truth to be understood that happens both you and I and the and applied. They want it to change Lord will rejoice. the lives of those who hear it. Preach­ I suppose by now, if you are still ers do not want to inflict pain unnec­ reading this, you may be thinking it's essarily. They hope the pain will lead just preacher talk, just a preacher try­ to a correction and cure of the prob­ ing to make you feel guilty. I remem­ lem. If the shoe hurts your foot but the ber an incident, about 50 years ago, in shoe is right, then you should fix your my first full-time "located" ministry foot. after ten years of school and regular Preachers want to be like Jesus, the but part-time preaching, when a cer­ Master preacher/teacher. There was an tain member of the congregation told occasion on the road to Emmaus when me I was a successful preacher. He He spoke to two disciples (Luke said, "You seem to think your job is to 24:25-32). He said to the disciples, make all of us feel miserable and I'd "0 fools, and slow of heart to believe say you are successful about 95% of what the prophets spoke" (24:25). He the time." then carefully explained what the That was one of the times (there's scripture meant (24:26-31). Later they been an uncountable multitude of said, "Didn't our hearts burn within times) when I thought I would quit. us when he spoke to us?" (24:32). That man went on to admonish me If I step on your toes or peach over that, "You can catch a lot more flies your heads, I am missing the mark. I with honey than with vinegar." I told have not found the proper range. I him I didn't fancy myself, nor did I need to adjust my aim, because I am think God intended me to be, a fly­ not hitting the target I'm aiming for. I catcher. want to hit you square in the heart Isn't there something said about with the word of God. I want to cause being fishers of men? And isn't it some holy heart burn. 16 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r frustrating and futile to wait for and accept only the fish which jump un­ Remembering prompted into your boat?

He had a wise comeback for that George Bailey too. He said, " You' II get more fish for the Master with permission than you Hugh Fulford will with prevention." Ok, but if I permit what the Lord doesn't permit He may throw me out along with my kettle of fish. And if He throws me out, can you persuade Him to put me back in? "I' ll ask Him to have mercy on you as one of the well-intentioned but ignorant preachers I've had to tolerate," was his parting shot.

Peter said his intention was to "stir up your sincere mind" (NASB), or "stimulate you to wholesome think­ George W. Bailey was born in ing" (NIV). I like to think that is my Kaufman, Texas, on April 3, 1922. motive and desire too. If I can make He was baptized into Christ in 1935 you think, honestly and sincerely, you by Gayle Oler and began preaching will come to a proper understanding when he was 14 years old. He attend­ of the gospel of Christ. That's the ed Freed-Hardeman College, South­ only kind of stirring I want to do. If western Tech in Oklahoma, the Uni­ you feel I have missed it and am on versity of New Mexico, and Abilene the wrong path, please use the same Christian College. resource for correcting me as I use for instructing (sometimes correcting) He served churches in Weather­ you - the word of God in the Bible. I ford, OK; Albuquerque, NM; Okla­ have no artificial lure, no "bait" to homa City, OK; Abilene, TX (where dangle before you to attract you, he preached for the Col­ tempt you, and catch you. If the truth lege/University congregation for 15 of God isn' t attractive to you, you years); and the Prestoncrest church in may not be a fish attractive to me, or Dallas. to Him. On a personal note, when l moved to Dallas in 1983 to preach at Skill­ man, George was the first preacher to come by my office to welcome me to Dallas. He no longer was the preach-

Go s p e I G I e a n e r 117 er at Prestoncrest, but was serving as throughout the United States. He vis­ one of the congregation's elders. We ited and preached in almost 100 for­ went to a nearby restaurant for a cup eign countries, including China and of coffee and a most enjoyable visit. Russia, preaching in Moscow, Lenin­ grad, and Rostov. In 1964 he was a George Bailey was a man and mas­ guest speaker at the World's Fair in ter of the Book. His sermons were New York City. filled with scripture-dozens, scores, and perhaps sometimes a hundred Between his pulpit ministries in scripture citations-all done perfectly Abilene and Dallas, he spent his full­ from memory with never a note of any time in evangelistic work, both in the kind before him! U. S. and overseas. For several years he was a regular speaker on the Her­ When J. D. Thomas selected 12 ald of Truth radio and television pro­ men as the great preachers of the day grams. He was a popular speaker on and published a volume of their ser­ brotherhood lectureship programs. mons George Bailey was included (Volume 2). Two of my favorite Bai­ My mother told of her and my fa­ ley sermons are "Can You Recom­ ther hearing him at an area-wide mend Your Religion?" and "The "Training for Service" series in Flor­ Church Faces the Future with Confi­ ence, Alabama, and how she sat utter­ dence," both of which I have preached ly mesmerized by his preaching. One on dozens of occasions. His sermon of the last times I heard him and visit­ on "Life's Inadequate Harbors," based ed with him was at Polishing the Pul­ on Paul's perilous voyage across the pit in Sevierville, TN in 2009. We Mediterranean Sea (Acts 27), is an both spoke on the "Graybeards" ses­ absolute masterpiece and I have out­ sion, and George kept the audience as lined it, but no one can possibly well as all of us on the panel rolling preach it with the effectiveness with with laughter at his reminiscences. which George preached it. George was married to the former George was the master of the epi­ Ela Beth Todd for 68 years prior to grammatic statement (a pithy saying her passing. They were the parents of or remark expressing an idea in a two sons. George passed from this life clever and amusing way). In empha­ on November 11, 2017 at the age of sizing the need for every Christian to 95. He is buried in the Elliott-Hamil be a missionary he said, "If you can't Garden of Memories Cemetery in go across in person, come across with Abilene, Texas. your purse," i.e., give so that others can go. George conducted gospel meetings and area-wide campaigns for Christ 18 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r The Unchanging Christ

Hebrews 1:12 Introduction: I. This text (He b. I: I2) is part of a quotation from Psalms I 02:25-27. 2. It describes the second person of the Godhead, the Son of God. 3. There is change and decay in all that we see, but Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. (Hebrews 13:8).

Discussion:

I. Christ Is Unchanging in His Person. "Thou art the same" A. He is immutable. (2 Peter 3:I2; Hebrews 7:26; 6:I9). B. He is Immortal. "Thy years shall not fail.". C. He is Invincible. "Sit... until..." II. Christ is Unchanging in His Provision. (v. 3) "When He had by him­ self purged our sins." A. He is the victorious Savior. A complete victory over Satan, over sin, and over sin. B. He is the vicarious sufferer, {Isaiah 53:5-6). All past and pre­ sent sins are laid on Him. C. He is the voice of supplication, (Hebrews I2:24). His blood cries out for mercy, not vengeance. III. Christ Is Unchanging in His Power. (v. 3) "Upholding all things by the word of His power." A. His word is the New Covenant. (See Hebrews8:IO-I2). In that covenant we find: a relationship, knowledge, and salva­ tion. B. His word tells us He will come again, (Hebrews I0:37; 9:27, 28; 10:34, 35). C. He words tells us of the great city to come, (Hebrews 13: I4) of endless duration. Conclusion: Is your desire for Him who changes not to abide with you? We know the new soon becomes old. The here and now will soon be past. Let us place our all in Him who will never leave us or forsake us!

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 19 Mormon Polytheism

Andy Erwin In the first of thirteen Articles of is the father-god of the planet Earth Faith, Joseph Smith declared in a very and he rules with his mother-god, the orthodox way, "We believe in God, "Heavenly Mother."3 Mormons claim, the Eternal Father, and in His Son, "Though the scriptures contain only Jesus Christ, and in the Holy Ghost." 1 hints, statements from presidents of However, as we delve deeper into the church over the years indicate that Mormon beliefs, we find a very unu­ human beings have a Heavenly Moth­ sual and unorthodox doctrine for any er as well as a Heavenly Father."4 Of religion, but especially for a religion the unnamed Heavenly Mother: claiming to be a restoration of true Latter-day Saints believe that all the Christianity. people of earth who lived or will HEAVENLYFATHERAND live are actual spiritual offspring of HEAVENLY MOTHER God the Eternal Father (Num. 16:22; Heb. 12:9). In this perspec­ In reality, Mormonism at its core is tive, parenthood requires both father polytheistic. Mormon polytheism as­ and mother, whether for the creation serts that this universe consists of an of spirits in the premortal life or of infinite number of gods and goddess­ physical tabernacles on earth. A es, each ruling their own planet as a Heavenly Mother shares parenthood god-family. Mormons believe this line with the Heavenly Father. This con­ of father-gods and mother-gods cept leads Latter-day Saints to be­ reaches into an infinite eternity, but lieve that she is like him in glory, bear in mind that they teach each perfection, compassion, wisdom, "god" had a birth and thus, a begin­ and holiness. 5 ning. Therefore, none of their "gods" is eternal - without beginning or end­ Mormons teach that Jesus is the ing. spiritual offspring of this particular father and mother god, and that the It so happens that the Mormon Mormon Jesus is the physical off­ god, "Eiohim,"2 as they refer to him, spring of this father-god and the vir-

1 Joseph Smith, The Articles of Faith ofthe Church ofJesus Christ ofLaller-day Saints. Retrieved on February 21, 20 II from 3 Elaine Anderson, Cannon, Heavenly Moth­ http://lds.org/library/display/0%2C4945%2C I 0 er. Retrieved on February 21, 2011 from the 6-1-2-1 %2CFF.html Encyclopedia of Mormonism, from 2 Stephen E. Robinson, God the Father: http://eom. byu.edu/index. php/Heavenly_ Mothe Overview. Retrieved on February 21, 20 II from the Encyclopedia of Mormonism, from 4 Anderson http://eom.byu.edu/index.php/God_the_Father 5 Anderson 20 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r gin Mary. Writing for the church­ come to the planet Earth and have an sanctioned Encyclopedia of Mormon­ extra-marital sexual intercourse with ism, Gerald Hansen Jr., writes: Mary, thus causing her also to commit adultery against her espoused husband Ancient and modern scriptures use Joseph. Thus, the Mormon Jesus the title Only Begotten to emphasize would have been the illegitimate child the divine nature of Jesus Christ. of a two-fold adulterous affair. We Latter-day Saints recognize Jesus as feel it is necessary to point out such literally the Only Begotten Son of things hoping to prove this doctrine is God the Father in the flesh (John anti-biblical, anti-God, and anti­ 3: I6; Doctrines and Covenants Christ. 93:11; Moses 6:52). This title signi­ fies that Jesus' physical body was A GOD OF FLESH AND BONE the offspring of a mortal mother and Mormons believe that "Elohim" is of the eternal Father (Luke I :35, I able to have such tangible relation­ Nephi II: I8). It is LDS doctrine ships because their god is not purely that Jesus Christ is the child of Mary spirit, as is the God of the Bible (John and God the Father, 'not in violation 4:24). Joseph Smith taught, "God is a of natural law but in accordance glorified and perfected man, a person­ with a higher manifestation thereof' age of flesh and bones. Inside his tan­ (JC, p. 8I) ... Christ inherited the gible body is an eternal spirit."8 ability to die from his mortal mother and the power to resurrect himself Mormons have "changed the glory from his immortal Father. Dying of the incorruptible God into an image was for him a voluntary, deliberate made like corruptible man" (Romans act for mankind, made possible only I :23). By changing the God of the because he was the Only Begotten Bible from the purely spirit, self­ of the Father (Doctrines and Cove­ existing Creator that He is, into a nants 20: I8-26).6 physical, tangible created man, Mor­ mons have, "exchanged the truth of If this doctrine is true, it would God for the lie, and worshiped and require that the Mormon "Elohim" served the creature rather than the leave his "Heavenly Mother" and ce­ Creator" (Romans I :25). Essentially, lestial bride on their celestial resi­ dence nearest the planet "Kolob"7 to the residence of God." It is "first in government, the last pertaining to the measurement of time .. 6 Gerald Hansen, Jr. Jesus Christ: Only .. One day in Kolob is equal to a thousand Begotten in the Flesh. Retrieved on February years according to the measurement of this 21, 20 II from the Encyclopedia of Mormonism, from earth." (Book of Abraham, pp. 34-35; Abra. http ://eom. byu. edu/index. php/Jesus_ Christ# Firs 3:3-9.) (Mormon Doctrine, p.428). In Utah, tbom_in_the_Spirit Kolob National Park has been named after this 7 Kolob means "the first creation." It is the supposed planet. name of the planet "nearest to the celestial, or 8 Doctrines and Covenants 130:22. G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 21 Mormons have denied the God of the dwelt on an earth, the same as Jesus Bible to create a lesser, inferior god of Christ himself did ... 9 their own. Brigham Young taught, "[T]hat Mormons believe that the gods God the Father was once a man on now residing throughout the universe another planet who 'passed the ordeal were once mortal men on other plan­ we are now passing through ... "'10 ets who, through obedience to the While on this unidentified planet, the commands of the gods of that planet, Mormon father-god met his mother­ attained exaltation to godhood. Such god. Together they produced spirit is Mormon doctrine for how their children. "god" became a god. Moreover, they At this point, it seems fair and rea­ believe that we human beings have sonable to ask the question of how a the potential of attaining the same man-like father-god and mother-god measure of godhood as well, and that created "spirit children." Does it not someday we can reign over a planet of follow that if the father and mother our own with our celestial bride, gods were personages of flesh and which would have been sealed with us bones as Joseph Smith taught, this by eternal matrimony in this life. union would have produced after its Having once been a mortal being, kind? How could a union of two be­ born on a foreign planet, they believe ings comprised of flesh and bones that their god was once conceived of a produce spirit children? father-god and mother-god just as Mormon "Apostle" Bruce they believe mortal men have been McConkie once affirmed: conceived by him and his god-wife. Joseph Smith wrote: An exalted and glorified man of ho­ liness could not be a Father unless a God himself was once as we are woman of like glory, perfection, and now, and is an exalted man, and sits holiness was associated with him as enthroned in yonder heavens! ... I a Mother. The begetting of children am going to tell you how God came makes a man a father and a woman to be God. We have imagined and a mother whether we are dealing supposed that God was God from all eternity. I will refute that idea, and take away the veil, so that you may see .... He was once a man like us; yea that God himself, the Father 9 Joseph Smith, Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, (Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Company, 1976), p.321. 10 Brigham Young, Teachings of the Presi­ dents ofthe Church: Brigham Young, (Salt Lake City: The Church of Jesus Christ of Lat­ ter-day Saints, 1997), p.29. 22 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r with man in his mortal or immortal to use Jesus as the redeemer of the state.u world. Lucifer influenced a third of the hosts of heaven to rebel with him Thus, the Mormon gods did not and they warred against Adam (aka become father and mother until they Michael the archangel according to procreated. Their god is therefore not Mormon doctrine) and his forces. an everlasting father. Neither is he a creator of man, but a procreator, no Lucifer was defeated. He and his different than a human male. Mor­ followers were cursed to live on this mons therefore believe that all men planet as demons or evil spirits, being and women on planet Earth are .the forever deprived of human bodies and physical offspring of their father and the possibility of deification. The mother god. ones who sided with Jesus are born into this world in "white and delight­ James Talmage wrote, "God the some" skin. The ones who remained Eternal Father, whom we designate by neutral during the war are born into the exalted name-title 'Eiohim,' is the this world with black skin as a curse literal Parent of our Lord and Savior against them. Though not readily Jesus Christ and of the spirits of the admitted by Mormons, this doctrine human race." 12 contributed to the racism which for­ Again, it is asserted that their god bade black priests. in the Mormon is the literal father of the spirits of the Church until 1978. Let us now ob­ human race through procreation. For serve the official (but lengthy) Mor­ Mormons, flesh and bone creatures mon explanation of these supposed begat spiritual beings, of which Jesus events. 14 is said to have been the first. ADAM AND EVE CREATION OF EARTH Once the "war in heaven" ended When the time came to create and "Elohim" proceeded with his cre­ planet Earth, Joseph Smith wrote, ation, he placed Adam and Even in " ... the head of the gods called a coun­ the Garden to serve as the father and cil of the gods; and they came togeth­ mother of all mortals. Moreover, "In er and concocted a plan to create the this physical-spiritual state in Eden, world and (the) people in it." 13 Adam was called the 'first man' (Mo­ ses 1:34) and given responsibility to It was at this council that Lucifer dress the garden and 'open the way of rebelled against "Elohim's" decision the world' (The Prophet Joseph

11 Bruce McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, (Salt Lake: Bookcraft, 1991), p.516. 14 Brent L. Top, War in Heaven, Retrieved 12 James Talmage, The Articles ofFaith (Salt on February 21, 20 II from the Encyclopedia of Lake: Deseret Book Company, 1984), p.421. Mormonism, from 13 Joseph Smith, p. 349. http://eom.byu.edu/index.php/War_in_Heaven Gospel Gleaner 123 Smith, p. 12)."15 However, as long as view that Adam was their "Elohim." 18 Adam and Eve remained in the Gar­ Not only did he admit such was the den, according to Mormon doctrine, case, but also referred to Mormons they could not procreate, and there­ now believing this doctrine as fore "Elohim's" plan could not be "cultisits." enacted. Such disagreements over matters Accordingly, "In order to obey the of doctrine are typical in most church­ command of God to multiply and es. However, in the Mormon Church, people the earth, Adam and Eve the ones disagreeing are claimed to be transgressed the Jaw. Their deliberate inspired "Prophets" and "Apostles" of action resulted in their fa11, and they God. Thus, one man supposedly led were expelled from the garden. 'Ad­ by the Holy Spirit called another am fell that men might be; and men man's doctrine - supposedly led by are, that they might have joy' (2 the Holy Spirit- "cultist." If Brigham Nephi 2:25). Thus, their action precip­ Young was speaking the inspired itated, as God had planned, the mortal word of God when promulgating the phase of the Plan of Salvation." 16 Adam-God doctrine, why did the Ho­ ly Spirit inspire McConkie to call it Adam and Eve are viewed as noble "cultist?" Are they not advocating martyrs in Mormon doctrine because that the Holy Spirit inspires "cultist" they obediently chose to sin against doctrine? the Mormon god .. Because he obeyed their god by sinning, Adam is be­ THE MORMON DOCTRINE OF lieved to be second only to Jesus inso­ ETERNAL PROGRESSION far as human beings can be exalted. 17 For one to understand the Mormon Today, the Encyclopedia of Mor­ doctrine of their gods, one must also monism wishes to rewrite the Adam­ understand the Mormon doctrine of God doctrine of Brigham Young. "eternal progression." As we have However, Mormon "Apostle" Bruce observed, Mormons believe, "[A] R. McConkie, stated in a Jetter to Mr. plurality of gods exist ... there is an Eugene England (dated February 19, infinite number of holy personages, 1981) that "Young and others of the drawn from worlds without number, early Brethren" did in fact hold to the who have passed on to exaltation and are thus gods." 19 In the likeness of Adam, Mormons believe that these

15 Arthur A Bailey, Adam: LDS Sources .. 18 Jerald and Sandra Tanner, LDS Apostle Retrieved on February 21, 20 II from the Ency­ Confesses Brigham Young Taught Adam-God clopedia ofMormonism, from Doctrine, (Salt Lake: Utah Lighthouse Minis­ http://eom.byu.edu/index.php/Adam try, 1982), p. 4. 16 Bailey 19 Bruce McConkie, Mormon Doctrine, (Salt 17 Bailey Lake: Bookcraft, 1991 ), 576-577. 24 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r inhabitants on these innumerable tion." Margaret McConkie Pope de­ planets are now "progressing, as are fines the doctrine of exaltation thusly: human beings on this earth, according To Latter-day Saints, exaltation is a to eternal principles towards a God­ state that a person can attain in be­ like life."20 coming like God-salvation in the ul­ Concerning the inhabitants of timate sense (Doctrines and Cove­ Earth, Mormons believe, "Man is the nants 132: 17). Latter-day Saints be­ child of God, formed in the divine lieve that all mankind (except the image and endowed with divine at­ sons of perdition) will receive vary­ tributes, and even as the infant son of ing degrees of glory in the afterlife. an earthly father and mother is capa­ Exaltation is the greatest of all the ble in due time of becoming a man, so gifts and attainments possible. It is that undeveloped offspring of celestial available only in the highest degree parentage is capable, by experience of the Celestial Kingdom and is re­ through ages and aeons, of evolving served for members of the Church into a God. "21 of the Firstborn. This exalted status, called eternal life, is available to be Stephen C. Walker expressed this received by a man and wife. It doctrine thusly, "As children of God, means not only living in God's pres­ men and women have infinite poten­ ence, but receiving power to do as tial (see 2 Nephi 2:20; Heb. 12:9). As God does, including the power to a result of their divine heritage, all bear children after the resurrection people carry the inherent capacity and (The Prophet Joseph Smith, pp. 300- the predisposition to become as their 301; Doctrines and Covenants heavenly parents."22 132: 19). Blessings and privileges of THE MORMON DOCTRINE OF exaltation require unwavering faith, EXALTATION repentance, and complete obedience to the gospel of Jesus Christ. In a The result of Mormonism's eternal revelation to the Prophet Joseph progression is the doctrine of "exalta- Smith, the Savior stated the follow­ ing conditions: 'Strait is the gate, and narrow the way that leadeth un­ 20 Hollis R. Johnson, Worlds. Retrieved on to the exaltation and continuation of February 21,2011 from the Encyclopedia of Mormonism, from: the lives, and few there be that find http://eom.byu.edu/index.php/Worlds it, because ye receive me not in the 21 Heber J. Grant, Anthony W. Ivins, Charles world neither do ye know me' (Doc­ W. Nibley, Doctrinal Expositions of the First Presidency. From the Encyclopedia ofMormon­ trines and Covenants 132:22). All ism Church ordinances lead to exalta­ 22 Stephen C. Walker, Mankind. Retrieved on February 21,2011 from the Encyclopedia of tion, and the essential crowning or­ Mormonism, from dinances are the Endowment and the http://eom. byu.edu/index. php/Mankind G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 25 eternal marriage covenant of the 8.) It teaches that God did not create temple (Doctrines and Covenants man, but procreated man with the 131:1-4, 132).23 Heavenly Mother. IN SUMMARY 9.) It denies that God's throne is in heaven, but somewhere near the The Mormon doctrine of gods op­ planet Kobol. poses the biblical doctrine of God in the following ways: 10.) It teaches that God can have sex­ ual relations with a mother-god 1.) It denies that God is an eternal, and an earthly woman. timeless being, without beginning or ending, from everlasting to ev­ 11.) It renders God to have committed erlasting. adultery against the mother-god with Mary. 2.) It turns God into a created being, spawned by other gods who pre­ 12.) It teaches that two human-like existed Him. gods can produce billions of spirit children, including Christ and the 3.) It teaches that God had to be sub­ Holy Spirit. ject to a greater law than His own, and through obedience to 13.) It therefore denies that Jesus is this law, He became deity. the only begotten Son of God: Therefore, moral law would not 14.) Some, including Brigham Young, emanate from God, but from the have taught that Adam was the gods who pre-dated Him. Mormon god. 4.) It denies the immutable nature of 15.) It teaches that God can be hon­ God, claiming that He has ored and obeyed by sinning changed from a man, as we are, against Him. into a god. 16.) It teaches that mortal men can 5.) It changes the nature of God from someday become a god, with all a pure spirit to flesh and bone. the attributes and power He pos­ 6.) It makes God dependent on an­ sesses, literally perfect as God is other god - a Heavenly Mother, perfect. as well as His god parents. 17.) It teaches that a man and a wom­ 7.) It teaches that an infinite number an, who have achieved godhood, of gods and goddesses co-inhabit can someday procreate other be­ an infinite number of planets. ings on another planet. 18.) It teaches that the beings which 23 Margaret McConkie Pope, Exaltation. Retrieved on February 21, 20 II from the Ency­ man and woman procreate canal- clopedia ofMormonism, from http://eom.byu.edu/index.php/Exaltation 26 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r so become gods - equal to God - Bible, we must be mindful to work on a planet of their own. that much harder to bring souls back to the God of the Bible. Only by truly IN CONCLUSION knowing "God is," and who God is, Members of the Lord' s church and can we successfully help ourselves people in general should be aware of and others answer the threat of the the depths of this evil heresy. Not one Mormon doctrine of gods. aspect of Mormon polytheism is true. It is utterly and entirely false from beginning to end. WE. 'I' If it were not for the use of biblical \'IR ~D\U names, and a few wrongfully applied .. 'HO LOF PR:EA 'HJ. • Bible references, one would not rec­ ,...... u.,u.. " ognize any coJTelation whatsoever to il~ l ... , ~ 101 wnup.nttn the Bible. If one would take this story \lllll llll \ 1\"lllt) l.t•• llll' and simply change the names, you have a completely pagan mythology. " \\'hen I Study lh • p.., ti m, ..... 1\'nl. 1111 However, by using Bible names l : n~•,ur,L~ tn g l) Sptni­ and references - although dreadfully Enh g hl~nin !! ly l nJ~N :.mdmg misinterpreted - Mormons have suc­ ceeded in deceiving millions with October 141-2-t 2019 their fables. While they continue to led souls away from the God of the

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 27 Do Men Become Gods?

Jackson Erwin One of the more defining doctrines become gods ourselves and reign over of the Church of Jesus Christ of Lat­ our own planets if we are faithful to ter-Day Saints is that of deification. Him. What does this doctrine teach? One John 10 Mormon apologist wrote: This is a doctrine which is com­ Latter-day Saints see all people as pletely foreign to biblical teaching. children of God in a full and com­ However, LDS members will warp plete sense; they consider every per­ both Scripture and the writings of son divine in origin, nature, and po­ early Christians in an attempt to prove tential. Each has an eternal core and their point. One such is found in the is "a beloved spirit son or daughter tenth chapter of John's Gospel. of heavenly parents." Each possess­ The chapter begins with Christ es seeds of divinity and must choose teaching the foundational truth that He whether to live in harmony or ten­ is the Good Shepherd (Jn. I 0: 1-21 ). sion with that divinity. Through the Then, as He was walking in the tem­ Atonement of Jesus Christ, all peo­ ple at the time of the Feast of Dedica­ ple may "progress toward perfection tion, the Jews came to Him and asked, and ultimately realize their divine "How long will You keep us in sus­ destiny." Just as a child can develop pense? If You are the Christ, tell us the attributes of his or her parents plainly" (NASB). Christ then returned over time, the divine nature that to His previous lesson on the Shep­ humans inherit can be developed to herd and the sheep. He demonstrated become like their Heavenly Fa­ the Jew's rejection of Him as the ther's.1 Messiah. He then concluded His ar­ The doctrine of deification is the gument with a statement declaring His belief that God was once a man who Deity, saying, "I and the Father are also was in subjection to another god. one," thus causing the Jews to pick up He lived faithfully under the laws of stones to execute Him. that god to the point that He Himself When the Lord asked why they obtained divinity. Likewise, according wished to kill Him, their answer was, to Mormonism we are of the same " ... for blasphemy; and because You, species as God and will, therefore, being a man, make Yourself out to be God." It was this reply that led Jesus 1 "Becoming Like God," Gospel to give a statement that has been a Topics on LDS.org (25 February "proof-text" for Mormon missionaries 2014) 281Gospel Gleaner for almost 200 years. "Has it not been needy; maintain the right of the af­ written in your Law, 'I SAID, YOU flicted and the destitute. Rescue the ARE GODS'? If he called them gods, weak and the needy; deliver them out to whom the word of God came (and of the hand ofthe wicked." Scripture cannot be broken), do you The Psalmist is writing of unjust say of Him whom the Father sancti­ judges who were standing in the place fied and sent into the world, 'You are of God, as they were supposed to be blaspheming,' because I said, 'I am ruling over Israel in the light of God's the Son of God'?" (vs. 34-36). word and righteousness. However, The passage cited by Jesus comes they instead were cruel and covetous. from Psalm 82, which provides for us They forsook the righteous decree of the Christ's intention for the phrase, God and followed after their own de­ "You are gods." This Psalm is the key sires. Remember, according to Mor­ to understanding John 10:34. While mons, these are supposed to be the Mormons twist Psalm 82 to try and faithful children of God who have support deification, such an interpreta­ ascended to a Divine godhood! tion cannot be logically or hermeneu­ The verse Christ explicitly quotes is tically held. verse 6, which reads, "I said, 'You are The Jews knew what Christ meant gods, and all of you are sons of the when He used this reference. He said, Most High."' Who were the gods? it was, "written in your Law." This Again, they were the judges of Israel, came from the book the Jews held as standing in the place of God. Just as being inspired by God. They found it Yahweh delivered justice and com­ authoritative and the foundation of mandments to Israel, so also were spiritual truth. They understood the these judges to make sure that such Psalm and what it meant and we must justice was being delivered. This lan­ interpret John 10:34 in light of Psalm guage is not exclusive to Psalm 82. 82. A Figure of Speech Psalm 82 The Lord spoke in the same way The Psalm of Asaph begins with about Moses in Exodus 4:16, saying, the statement, "God has taken his "Moreover, he shall speak for you to place in the divine council; in the the people; and he. will be as a mouth midst of the gods he holds judg­ for you and you will be as God to ment ... " (v.l) Who are these "gods"? him." He says to Moses again in Exo­ As the text explains, they are the hu­ dus 7:1, "See, I make you as God to man, non-divine, judges of Israel. Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron This is proven by Asaph' s questions shall be your prophet." Therefore, it is to these gods, "How long will you not unknown for God to speak of judge unjustly and show partiality to those who are fulfilling His will as the wicked? Vindicate the weak and being "God" in the sense that they are G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 29 standing for God by His own authori­ 2:22; I John 3:5) and always acted on ty. behalf of the righteousness of God However, a death stroke to the (Jn. I6:8; Rom. I0:4). Mormon position of these being actu­ The "gospel" of Mormonism is not al, fully transformed and divine be­ the gospel of Christ. It is not Christi­ ings comes in Psalm 82:7: "Neverthe­ anity and it is certainly not a restora­ less you will die like men and fall like tion of the first century church. The any one of the princes." These weren't church of Christ can be found when immortal, god-like beings who were one compares its teachings and organ­ ruling over their own planets in eterni­ ization with the true gospel of Christ ty. Rather, the truth is completely (Jn. 8:3I). brought out that these are men who Mormonism teaches a different were living in wickedness and who Christ, a different God, a different would be destroyed because of their gospel, a different church founder, abuse of their God-given office. God and a different authority than that doesn't die like a man because He is found in Sacred Writ. Because of this, eternal. He is "from everlasting to we cannot condone or extend the hand everlasting" (Psalm 90:2). Because of of fellowship. As it is written, "But His eternal nature, God does not face even if we, or an angel from heaven, the danger of death or destruction. should preach to you a gospel contra­ From Isaiah 43: I 0-II, we learn ry to what we preached to you, he is that God declares the impossibility of to be accursed" (Gal. I :8). men becoming gods by saying, Mormons must turn with a sincere " ... Before Me there was no God and pure devotion to Christ (2 Cor. formed, and there will be none after II :3). Mormons must turn to the faith me. I, even I, am the LORD, and there that was "once for all handed down to is no savior besides Me." the saints" (Jude 3). Mormons must What is Christ meaning, then, when tum to the church that we read of in He utilizes this text to support His the New Testament. They must lay claim of Messiahship and Deity? He aside all of the traditions and com­ uses it to show that, if the men who mandments of their fraudulent found­ were judges over Israel were called ers. Let them become dedicated to "gods" for declaring the word of God Christ and to the church which He and executing His will, why then purchased with His own blood (Acts would it be blasphemy for Him to 20:28). declare Himself the Son of God when doing the same thing? Christ was standing for the truth of God's word (John 5: I9-20; I4: 10). He never committed iniquity (Heb. 4: I5; I Pet. 30IGospel Gleaner SPEAKING THE TRUTH IN LOVE Ernest Underwood

"But speaking the truth in love, may simply that which is formed in the grow up into him in all things, which doctrines and feelings of men. is the head, even Christ" (Eph. 4: 15) We also learn of our individual Some verses in the Bible are simply responsibility to teach truth. Paul was amazing in the many lessons which writing to the saints at Ephesus, not they contain. Ephesians 4:15 is one of just to preachers, elders, or other lead­ these verses. This passage speaks ing brethren. To these saints he gave about truth -- the truth which makes the commandment to "speak the one free from sin. Let us notice some truth ... " The question is also asked in of the lessons contained therein. another place, "How shall they hear without a preacher?" (Romans THE MESSAGE OF TRUTH 10:14). May each of us realize and Biblical truth, in order to be effec­ fulfill our responsibility to speak the tive in the lives of men, must be spo­ truth. ken or proclaimed. Jesus command­ THE MANNER OF TRUTH ed, "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature" The manner in which the truth is to (Mark 16: 15). be spoken is "in love." This word love invokes some strange thoughts to Why the gospel? We must preach many people. Some seem to think the gospel because the gospel is God's that love means being willing to com­ power to save (Romans 1: 16). It is by promise with error and those who this truth that the soul is puri­ teach it. Others view love as a senti­ fied. Peter stated, "Seeing ye have mental, giddy, emotional feeling purified your souls in obeying the about God, the cross, sin, and salva­ truth ... " (I Peter 1:22). Paul affirmed tion. None of these convey the con­ that those in Rome were "made free cept of true biblical love. from sin" by their obedience to the doctrine (Romans 6: 17-18). True biblical love expresses a gen­ uine concern for others. It causes one A second thought is that truth must to desire the highest good even for an be spoken. Each week the general enemy -- that highest good being the public is subjected to a variety of reli­ salvation of the soul. It involves tell­ gious discourses. As one compares ing one the truth when the risk is great many of these religious speeches with that such action will bring about al­ the Bible he learns that much of that ienation of friends. which is being taught is not truth, but G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 31 Jesus angered the scribes and Phar­ preach. They teach truth in order to isees when he told them the truth create a situation of what is common­ about themselves and about God's ly known as "preacher-itus" among attitude toward them in their present their followers. condition. Yet, this same Jesus looked True Christians teach the truth so upon them with love and lamented, that souls may be saved. These do not "0 Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that first survey the racial, economic, or killest the prophets and stonest them social standing of the ones to be which are sent unto thee, how often taught before deciding if they are wor­ would I have gathered thy children thy. True children of God see the together, even as a hen gathereth her lost. They recognize that anyone who chickens under her wings, and ye has not obeyed the gospel is lost, and would not" (Matthew 23:3 7). they want to give them the opportuni­ If we speak the truth in love we ty to be saved. For this reason they will call upon men to obey. To fail to seek the lost. They are willing to sac­ tell men the truth is to fail to call them rifice time and money in an effort to to obedience to that truth. To allow search out and tell the saving gospel them to believe that they are saved to the lost. Having found the lost, short of that full obedience is nothing they save them by the preaching of the short of spiritual homicide. Men who gospel. would do such, although claiming to Unfortunately, many who have love the souls of their hearers, actually been sought out and had the gospel express a hateful contempt for preached to them turn a deaf ear to it them. A casual reading of Matthew and remain in their lost condi­ 15:8-14 and the entire second chapter tion. However, the faithful saint will of 2 Peter will serve as proof for this continue to see, seek, and save the lost statement. as he has opportunity and ability. THE MOTIVE OF TRUTH There are other lessons which can The proper motive of spiritual truth be gleaned from our text, but these and those who proclaim it is that the should suffice to make us appreciate recipient of that truth "may grow up in the value of taking a text and studying all things ... even Christ." Motives it for our own benefit. May each of us which are simply to increase the num­ have the zeal to do so. bers, the contribution, or the prestige of the proclaimer are impure and shameful motives. It is a sad but true fact that some teach truth so that they may manipulate those to whom they

32 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r The West Fayetteville Church of Christ

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Return Service Requested September-October 2019 GcrN~JP)ceTI GTicemlrm®Ir For the lord, His Word, a11d His Chiii'CII

Prayer and Providence Remiudiug Believers of tile Principles of Prnyer

Robert Waggoner The Basics of Prayer p. 2

Tom McLemore The Power of Prayer p. 7

Ron Thomas The Necessity of Prayer p. 10

Ronald Bryant The Language of Prayer p. 14

David O' Connell God's Answers to Prayer p. 16

Also in this issue

Steve Hi gginbotham Plagiarism among Preachers p. 19

Andy Erwin Biblical Preaching in Modern Times p. 22

Raymond Elliott The Holy Spirit Promised to the Apostles p. 26

Hugh Fulford Remembering Y.P. Black p. 29

W.A. Bradfield Our Duty to Others p. 32 "The Churches of Christ Greet You"' (Romans 16:16)

The West Fayetteville Church of Christ is pleased to bring you the Gospel Gleaner. Are you familiar with the churches of Christ? Have you ever attended our services before?

Faithful churches of Christ desire to return to the New Testament and to be the church of the Bible. In the Bible, we find that the church is the assembly of all those who have been called out ofthe darkness of sin by obeying the gospel. These souls are added by God to the spiritual body of Christ, which is His church (Acts 2:42, 47; Ephesians 1:22-23).

The church belongs to Christ. It is His church. We, therefore, seek to honor Christ as our Lord in our worship, teaching, and daily walk.

One can be added to this sacred assembly and spiritual kingdom by hearing the gospel preached (Romans 10:17); believing the facts concerning Christ as revealed in the gospel (John 8:24); repenting of sin (Luke 13:3, 5); confessing faith in Christ (Romans 10:9-10); and by being baptized into Christ (Romans 6:3; Colossians 2:11-13; Galatians 3:26- 27) to wash sins away by the blood of Christ (Acts 22:16; Ephesians 1:7).

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Correspondences, news and notes, and article considerations can be sent electronically to [email protected]. The West Fayetteville Church of Christ reserves the right of discretion in deciding which correspondences, news, notes, and articles to publish. Inside this Issue Gospel Gleaner

Vol. 31 +No.5 Andy Erwin

WRITERS FOR THIS ISSUE In this issue of the Gospel Gleaner we '' will be encouraging brethren with regard to prayer. The articles are timely and touching. W .A. Bradfield Our prayer is that this issue will lead to more fervent and meaningful prayers among our readers. Ronald Bryant Huntsville, Alabama I have a couple of prayer requests. One of our writers in this issue, Robert Waggoner, Raymond Elliott recently suffered a stroke, but is improving. Prattville, Alabama Also, Ruby Bradd is the 3 year old daughter of one of our writers, Stephen Bradd and Andy Erwin Ranea Bradd. She has recently been diag­ Fayetteville, Tennessee nosed with cancer and is undergoing treat­ Hugh Fulford ments. Please remember these precious souls Gallatin, Tennessee in your prayers. You will also find in this issue a timely Steve Higginbotham article on the problem of plagiarism among Knoxville, Tennessee preachers. Steve Higginbotham does a fine Tom McLemore job encouraging brethren to do their due diligence in their respective ministries and Selma, Alabama works for the Lord. David O'Connell \ Raymond Elliott has also provided an Rogersville, Alabama 1 article addressing the promise of the Holy Ron Thomas Spirit to the Apostles. Perhaps you know of Chillicothe, Ohio someone confused by the teachings of the Charismatic Movement who will benefit Robert Waggoner from this study. Montgomery, Alabama .·~ Hugh Fulford has also written an article remembering the great preacher V.P. Black. t, Many of brother Black's books on steward­ : ship are still available. His sermon books can be found in used bookstores. Anytime you have an opportunity to read one of his books, you will not be wasting your time.

Gospel Gleaner 11 The Basics of Praver Robert Waggoner

The prayer life of Jesus must have kingdom spread. The request that our been impressive to his closest sins be forgiven requires that we be disciples. Many times he prayed alone willing to forgive others who have and in private places (Matthew 14:33; sinned against us (Luke 3 :4; Matthew 26:36, 39, 42, 44; Mark I :35; 6:46; 6:14-15). 14:32; 35, 39; Luke 5:16; 6:12; 9:28; Immediately following Luke's 22:32, 41, 44). At other times his account of this model prayer, Jesus disciples would have heard him illustrated it, that just as a friend will praying. give to someone who asks for bread, On one occasion, "Jesus was even though it is at an inconvenient praying in a certain place, and when time, so also God will give to those he finished, one of his disciples said who ask him. Therefore, he exhorted, to him, 'Lord, teach us to pray, as "ask, and it will be given to you; seek, John taught his disciples"' (Lk. 11:1 ). and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who Jesus responded by giving them a asks receives, and the one who seeks short model prayer. "Father, hallowed finds, and to the one who knocks it be your name. Your kingdom come. will be opened" (Luke 11 :9-1 0). Give us each day our daily bread, and forgive us our sins, for we ourselves Jesus promised his disciples that forgive everyone who is indebted to "whatever you ask in my name, this I us. And lead us not into temptation." will do" (John 14:13-14; see also John (Luke 11 :2-4; see also Matthew 6:9- 15:7, 16). In order to receive what is 13). requested, you must believe that you will receive it (Matthew 21:22: Mark This prayer has four specific parts. 11 :24; James 1:5-7). "Whatever we First, it is addressed to the Father. ask we receive from him, because we Second, it gives reverence to the name keep his commandments and do what of God. Third, it makes four requests, pleases him" (1 John 3:22). "For the namely, that the kingdom come, that eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, we have daily food, that our sins be and his ears are open to their prayer. forgiven, and that we be not led into But the face of the Lord is against temptation. those who do evil" (1 Peter 3: 12). The request that the kingdom Jesus taught that people ought to would come has already been be persistent in prayer. He told a fulfilled. We should now pray that the

21Gospel Gleaner parable about a widow who wanted street comers, that they may be seen justice against her adversary. She by others. Truly, I say to you, they pleaded with a judge who neither have received their reward. But when feared God nor respected man. you pray, go into your room and shut Although he refused at first, yet the door and pray to your Father who because the widow kept pleading, he is in secret. And your Father who sees relented lest the widow "beat me in secret will reward you. And when down by her continual coming." Jesus you pray, do not heap up empty said that unlike the human judge, God phrases as the Gentiles do, for they "will give justice" speedily (Luke think that they will be heard for their 18:1-8). many words" (Matthew 6:5-7). Paul admonished that we "be Jesus blessed the food when he fed constant in prayer" (Romans 12:12) the five thousand (Matthew 14: 19; and that we "pray without ceasing" (1 Mark 6:41; Luke 9:16; John 6:11), Thessalonians 5: 17, see also when he fed the four thousand Ephesians 1:16; 1 Thessalonians 3:10; (Matthew 15:36; Mark 8:7), and when 2 Thessalonians 1:11; Colossians 1:9). he instituted the Lord's Supper (Matthew 26:26-28; Mark 14:22-24; Anna was known for "fasting and Luke 22:17, 19; 1 Corinthians 11:23- prayer night and day" (Luke 2:37). 25). On two other occasions, Jesus Cornelius was a devout Gentile who thanked God in his prayers (Matthew "prayed continually to God" (Acts 11 :25-26; Luke 10:21, and John 10:2). 11 :41-42). We are to be thankful in Jesus also taught that people our prayer lives (Ephesians 1: 16; should pray humbly, like the tax Colossians 1:3, 12; 4:2; 2 Corinthians collector, who said, "God, be merciful 1:11; Colossians 4:2). to me a sinner," and not like the proud Jesus prayed for children (Matthew Pharisee, who said, "God, I thank you 19:13). He exhorted his disciples to that I am not like other men, pray for "those who abuse you" (Luke extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or 6:28). On the cross, Jesus prayed for even like this tax collector. I fast twice his enemies, "Father, forgive them, for a week; I give tithes of all that I get." they know not what they do" (Luke Jesus said that it was the tax collector, 23:34, 46). He prayed that Peter's not the Pharisee, that went down to "faith may not fail" (Luke 22:32). He his house justified (Luke 18:9-14). admonished his disciples to pray for When giving his sermon on a laborers to work in the harvesting of mountain, Jesus said that "when you souls (Matthew 9:37-38). He prayed pray, you must not be like the that his disciples might be united "so hypocrites. For they love to stand and that the world may believe that you pray in the synagogues and at the have sent me" (John 17:21). In the Gospel Gleaner 13 Garden, he prayed for himself, knees he cried out with a loud voice, "Father, remove this cup from me. 'Lord, do not hold this sin against Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, them"' (Acts 7:59-60). be done" (Matthew 26:39, 42, 33; When Phillip went to a Samaritan Mark 14:36; Luke 22:42; Hebrews city and preached the gospel, the 5:7). apostles Peter and John "came down Jesus' model prayer, his teachings and prayed for them that they might about prayer, and his own prayer life receive the Holy Spirit" (Acts 8: 15). must surely have influenced the At Joppa, Peter "knelt down and prayer lives of his disciples. After prayed" before raising Tabitha from Jesus' ascension into heaven, his the dead (Acts 9:40). disciples stayed in Jerusalem, "devoting themselves to prayer" (Act When the servants of Cornelius I: I4). The disciples prayed that the arrived at Joppa to request that Peter Lord would show them who should come to Caesarea to tell Cornelius replace Judas (Acts 1:24). After the about the gospel, Peter had been church was established on the Day of praying (Acts I 0:9, 30-3I ). Pentecost, the disciples devoted After James was killed by Herod, themselves not only to the apostles "Peter was kept in prison, but earnest doctrine, fellowship, and breaking of prayer for him was made to God by bread, but also to prayers (Acts 2:42). the church" (Acts I2:5). When the apostles Peter and John After Paul's conversion, he was in were arrested and placed in custody "Jerusalem and was praying in the by the Sanhedrin counsel, the council temple" when the Lord told him to charged them not to preach in the leave because the people would not name of Jesus. But when they were accept his testimony (Acts 22: I7). released to their friends, they prayed and then continued to speak the word When Paul and Barnabas were of God with boldness (Acts 4:31 ). returning on their first missionary journey, they had elders appointed in When the Jerusalem church was every church, "with prayer and unsettled because certain Hellenistic fasting" (Acts I4:23). widows were neglected, the apostles determined to select men to serve Since there was no synagogue at their needs, but resolved to devote Philippi, Paul and others went outside themselves "to prayer and to the the city to the riverside on the Sabbath ministry of the word" (Acts 6:4, 6). day where they supposed was a place of prayer. There, they spoke to the As Stephen was being stoned to women. Lydia and her household death, "he called out, 'Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.' And falling to his 41Gospel Gleaner heard and were baptized (Acts 16: 13- prayer, so that many will give thanks 15). on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many" (2 As Paul concluded his third Corinthians I : II). missionary journey, he spoke with the elders of the church at Ephesus. To the Ephesians, Paul wrote, "I do Afterward, "he knelt down and prayed not cease to give thanks for you, with them all" (Acts 20:36). remembering you in my prayers, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the While Paul and company waited Father of glory, may give you the for a ship to be unloaded at Tyre, Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in before leaving, they met with the the knowledge of him, having the eyes church and "kneeling down on the of your hearts enlightened, that you beach, we prayed" (Acts 21 :5). may know what is the hope to which When Paul, Luke, and others were he has called you, what are the riches on a ship during a stormy voyage to of his glorious inheritance in the Rome, the crew "let down four saints, and what is the immeasurable anchors from the stem and prayed for greatness of his power toward us who day to come" (Acts 27:29). When day believe, according to the working of was about to come, Paul urged them his great might that he worked in to eat. Taking "bread, and giving Christ when he raised him from the thanks to God in the presence of all he dead and seated him at his right hand broke it and began to eat" (Acts in the heavenly places, far above all 27:34-35). Arriving safely on the rule and authority and power and island of Malta, Paul visited the father dominion, and above every name that of Publius who lay sick with fever and is named, not only in this age but also dysentery. He "prayed, and putting his in the one to come" (Ephesians 1: 16- hands on him healed him" (Acts 21). 28:8). To the Philippians, he wrote, "And In addition, the apostle Paul it is my prayer that your love may informed others that he was praying abound more and more, with for them - not for their natural, knowledge and all discernment, so physical, or material well-being, but that you may approve what is for their faith and spiritual well-being. excellent, and so be pure and He informed the Romans that he blameless for the day of Christ, filled prayed for all Israel to be saved with the fruit of righteousness that (Romans 10: 1; 11 :26). He prayed that comes through Jesus Christ, to the the Corinthians would do no wrong glory and praise of God" (Philippians and that they would be restored (2 1:9-ll). Corinthians 13 :7 -9). He also requested that the Corinthians "help us by Gospel Gleaner IS To the Colossians, he wrote, "we sick? Let him call for the elders of the have not ceased to pray for you, church, and let them pray over him, asking that you may be filled with the anointing him with oil in the name of knowledge of his will in all spiritual the Lord. And the prayer of faith will wisdom and understanding, so as to save the one who is sick, and the Lord walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, will raise him up. And if he has fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in committed sins, he will be forgiven" every good work and increasing in the (James 5:14-15). knowledge of God. May you be Your prayers can be powerful. strengthened with all power, "Therefore, confess your sins to one according to his glorious might, for all another and pray for one another, that endurance and patience with joy, you may be healed. The prayer of a giving thanks to the Father, who has righteous person has great power as it qualified you to share in the is working. Elijah was a man with a inheritance of the saints in light" nature like ours, and he prayed (Colossians 1:9-12). fervently that it might not rain, and for To the Thessalonians, Paul wrote three years and six months it did not that "we pray most earnestly night and rain on the earth. Then he prayed day that we may see you face to face again, and heaven gave rain, and the and supply what is lacking in your earth bore its fruit" (James 5:16-18). faith" (1 Thessalonians 3:1 0). He also Although Jesus and others did pray wrote that "We always pray for you, occasionally about individual that our God may make you worthy of blessings during this earthly life, their his calling and may fulfill every emphasis in prayer was not primarily resolve for good and every work of upon earthly needs but upon spiritual faith by his power" (2 Thessalonians values. John put the emphasis well 1: 11 ). when he wrote to Gaius, saying, "I To Philemon, Paul wrote that "I pray that all may go well with you and pray that the sharing of your faith may that you may be in good health, as it become effective for the full goes well with your soul" (3 John knowledge of every good thing that is I :2). Should that not also be the in us for the sake of Christ" (Philemon emphasis in our prayers? 1:6). He also requested that the Colossians pray that he would have an open door for declaring the mystery of Christ while he was in prison (Colossians 4:3). Regarding prayers for the sick, James wrote, "Is anyone among you

6IGospel Gleaner The Power of Praver Tom McLemore

It was James who wrote, "The generous nature (James I :5b, 17; prayer of a righteous man has great 5:11). God is a God who listens and power in its effects" (James 5:16b). hears. Our cries reach his ears (James From this statement, we become 5:4), the ears of the Lord of hosts. aware that prayer's power is not un­ Another reason why we should conditional. The epistle of James is pray is that prayer is said to possess filled with inspired teaching regarding great power in its effects (James the conditions under which this prin­ 5:16b). When we understand the na­ ciple proves true. ture of God, the One to whom we In order that we might understand pray, we can see wherein the great its power and learn to pray with more power of prayer lies. He is merciful power, study with me what James has and generous, and he is also the Al­ to say concerning prayer in his epistle. mighty, the Lord ofhosts! Open your New Testament and read What Are SOme Causes of all of James's words on this vital mat­ Failure in Prayer? ter. We will proceed by asking James some fundamental questions regarding Sometimes failure is due to a lack prayer. of faith (James 1:6-8; cf. 5:15-the prayer of faith saves the sick). Per­ What Is Prayer? haps the first order of prayer for us For one thing, prayer is asking might be, "Increase our faith," or "I (James 1:5, 6; 4:2, 3). Prayer is also believe; help my unbeliefl" (Luke 17: blessing God, that is, giving thanks or Mark 9:24). Since faith comes from praising God for his blessings (James hearing the word of God (Romans 3:9; cf. Nehemiah 9:5b, 6; 1 Peter 1:3; 10: 17), God will increase and help our Ephesians 1:3). faith when we open the Scriptures and To pray, says James, is to draw listen to and obey the word of the God near to God, while humbling one's to whom we pray! self before the Lord (James 4:8, 10; It also may be worldliness that cf. Hebrews 4:16; 10:22). Sometimes, hinders our prayers (James. 4: 1-5). It prayer involves cries that we utter to is hardly possible for our prayers to the Lord (James 5:4b; cf. Luke 18:1- have much power if we live as ene­ 8). mies of the One to whom we pray! Why Should We Pray? Our need is to cleanse ourselves in heart and life from worldly things James teaches that one reason why (James 4:6-10). we should pray is God's merciful and Gospel Gleaner 17 What Are Some Things for prayer of the righteous person that has Which to Pray? great power in its effects (James 5:I6b). Does James refer here to some James tells us that we should pray elite type of person or some superhu­ for wisdom (James I:5). James 3:I3- man individual? NO! Elijah, who fer­ I8 gives a description of the wisdom vently prayed with power, in some that comes from above. We should features was extraordinary. Yet, he pray for grace (James 4:6). In this still was an ordinary man with respect context, grace is God's generous, ac­ to human nature (James 5: I7). Elijah tive, effective help beyond what we possessed the same natural limitations deserve or can rightly expect. It is a and the same human weaknesses that conquering grace, manifested in victo­ we possess. ry over worldliness, evil, and the evil one. It was by means of grace in this Who then is the righteous person sense that Paul accomplished what he James has in mind? The righteous did (e.g., I Corinthians I5: I 0; Ephe­ person is the child of God, begotten sians 4:7). again by means of the word of truth (James I: I8), the one whom God has What Are Some Occasions on chosen, rich in faith and an heir of the Which to Pray? kingdom (James 2:5), the one who From James 5:13-I8 we learn controls one's self, who works God's when we ought to pray. James urges righteousness (James I: I9, 20), the us to pray when we are suffering. We one who stands the test and loves God may and ought to pray when people (James I: 12), and the one who does are sick. Of course, the specific pro­ the word of God, rather than just hear­ cedure James describes applied to the ing it (James I :25). time when elders were miraculously The righteous person is the one endowed by the laying on of the apos­ who practices pure religion, which tles' hands. Still, the prayer of faith includes bridling the tongue (James heals the sick today, but God now I :26, 27), the one who lives by the law uses means rather than miracle. We of the kingdom (love one's neighbor may and ought to pray when sin is as one's self) rather than showing corifessed. And, we must pray when partiality (James 2:8, 9), the one blessed by God (James 3:9; cf. I: I7). whose faith works (James 2: I4-I7), When God has blessed us, it is always and the one who is peaceable, gentle, appropriate to bless (thank/praise) open to reason, full of mercy and God! good fruits, and a peacemaker (James Whose Prayer Has Great 3:I7, I8). Power in Its Effects? The righteous person to whom As we noted at the beginning of James refers is the friend of God (as our study, James writes that it is the Abraham) rather than the friend of the SIGospel Gleaner world (James 4:4; cf. 2:23), the one Prayer indeed possesses power who is humble (James 4:6, I 0), and subject to ce1tain conditions, and the one who is righteous in conduct James provides much insight into the (James 5:6 ; cf. I John 2:2, 29). If our matter of praying with power. It is praying seems to lack power, we hoped that through applying what he would do well to examine ourselves to teaches us to our own praying, we see how closely we fit James's de­ may experience more fu ll y the power scription of the righteous person. ofprayer. Must Prayer Be Consistent with Speech and Life (and Vice Versa)? James laments that the same mouth sometimes utters prayer to God and curses a human being, that is, one who is in the similitude of God (James 3:8 - 12). He emphasizes that it ought not to be this way! It is unnatural. (James' illustrations in James 3:11, 12 are examples of an unnatural incon­ sistency). There must be consistency between prayer and l!fe (James 4: 15). Too often, we do not pray, "Thy will be done," because we are not proceed­ ing on the bas is of God's will in life. And, it is more likely that our lives will be lived in light of God 's will if we are continually praying for his wil l to be done. Let us pray and live according to the will of God. Let us live by the Great Doctrines of the Bible prayer we ought to pray. Jesus taught Robert Waggo ner his disciples to pray, "Thy will be done" (Matthew 6: I 0) . In the garden, $22.95 Jesus prayed, "Thy will be done" Order from Gospel Li ght Books (Matthew 26:39, 42 and parallels). (870) 3 79-2412 All praye r must be uttered mindful of the will of God (1 John. 5:14). Let us pray as Jesus taught and determine to live consistent with our prayer.

Gospe l Gleaner 19 The Necessitv of Praver

Ron Thomas

The necessity of prayer in a Chris­ and moral ailments, so they offer their tian's life is so important that one "thoughts and prayers;" atheists and might think it goes without saying. agnostics simply speak into the air as Yet, it can't "go without saying" be­ if they are speaking to some being cause so many have failed to appreci­ they don't believe exists. It's a mar­ ate the value of prayer. Even for some vel, really. who do value it and value it much, In the life of a Christian, the neces­ their prayer life is not as it should be sity of prayer is connected to one's because they are too distracted or, devotion to the Lord, determination to strangely, they have convinced them­ stay the course, and dependence on selves of its value but live a life that Him who is Deity, that is, God over does not reflect that value! all. The necessity of prayer in the life Devotion of a Christian corresponds to the The necessity of prayer in the life hymn, "I need thee every hour." of a child of God is in relation to de­ Think about some of the lines in the votion. In Acts 1, the Lord Jesus as­ hymn: "No tender voice like thine can cended into the heavenly realm, leav­ peace afford," "Temptations lose their ing instructions to His eleven apostles power when thou art nigh," "come about their necessary wait in Jerusa­ quickly and abide or life is vain." lem. While there, the scripture reads, Sentiments like these express the "These all with one accord continued soul's struggle with life's problems. stedfastly in prayer, with the women, The thrust of this hymn is in relation and Mary the mother of Jesus, and to a Christian's dependence on Him with his brethren" (Acts 1:14, ASV). who is the Creator and One who can The New American Standard Bible "exodus us" from this world of des­ reads, "continually devoting them­ pair. selves" in place of the American In a religious world like ours, in­ Standard Version's "continued sted­ cluding the secular religions, people fastly." Prayer is deeply associated pray fervently. To what do they pray? with one's devotion to the Lord. Buddhism speaks of the importance of Some people, however, have ap­ prayer associated with rituals; secular­ proached prayer in a way similar to ists say there has to be more to life how some approach being a Christian. than what presents itself to us, but By that I mean, one will speak favor­ they hardly want to recognize Christi­ ably about a person, "He has been anity as being the solution to spiritual 10 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r baptized!" but fail to appreciate and ear from hearing the law, Even his understand that baptism is the culmi­ prayer is an abomination" (Proverbs nation of conversion, a contrite heart 28:9). no longer doing something for the When saints are devoted to the sake of doing, but thinking and living Lord, when they continue steadfastly in accordance with a righteousness not in prayer, the direction of their prayers one's own. The expression, evidently, not only knows where it is going, but is supposed to make all the difference. lands safely at the desired destination. This morphs into "Let's teach him Determination how to lead in public prayer." The necessity of prayer in the life When it comes to prayer, one's of the saved is in relation to determi­ prayer is to be a reflection of a per­ nation. Devoted saints depend on the son's conversion to the Lord, one re­ Lord for all that life presents to him deemed by the blood of the Lamb, and her. It was Peter who said unto "knowing that ye were redeemed, not the saints in his writings, "Humble with corruptible things, with silver or yourselves therefore under the mighty gold, from your vain manner of life hand of God, that he may exalt you in handed down from your fathers; but due time; casting all your anxiety up­ with precious blood, as of a Iamb on him, because he careth for you" (1 without spot, even the blood of Peter 5:6-7). Christ" (1 Peter 1:18-19). It was Paul who wrote, while un­ Prayer is a reflection of one's grati­ justly incarcerated, "In nothing be tude, an appeal to the Lord to hear the anxious; but in everything by prayer supplications of the heart that knows and supplication with thanksgiving let its own bitterness (cf. Prov. 14:10). your requests be made known unto This is a life of devotion. God" (Philippians 4:6). Baptism without conversion is as When the world thrusts you into a meaningless as prayer without devo­ circumstance or circumstances that tion. "He that is of God heareth the are unjust, unfair, and evil in all re­ words of God: for this cause ye hear gards, what are you to do? There are them not, because ye are not of God" two options before each person. You (John 8:47). Prayer without under­ can rely on the Lord for wisdom, standing and devotion to Him to courage, perseverance, and guidance; whom all prayers ascend are like or, you can tum away from the Lord. words floating in the air with a desire If the latter is chosen, then where will to land on something somewhere, you go (cf. John 6:68)? After wisely hoping it will be a place that is agree­ choosing the first option, the devotion, able. Because those words get tired dependence, and determination of the floating about (if you will), they land saint will pull him or her through. nowhere. "He that turneth away his Gospel Gleaner 111 Perhaps an illustration will be know the power of God" (cf. Matt. helpful. You're an athlete who is be­ 22:29). ing called upon by the team to lead Many do not believe in prayer, and the others on the team to victory. You these same people are sad, you see! know that without your effort the con­ Doctrine test will be lost, and your team needs to win this game to move on. You The necessity of prayer in the life resolve to accomplish the task; you of saints is in relation to the doctrine will not be defeated. Great athletes of Christ. If one were not to have any believe in their ability to put the team exhortation in the New Testament like on their shoulders and lead them over "pray without ceasing," the saints still the goal line (so to speak) for the vic­ have the life of Christ as their exam­ tory. This determination is crucial in ple. The life of Christ is the blessed sports, but it applies in other endeav­ example, and there are exhortations ors in life also. from His very mouth about the im­ portance and necessity of prayer in the As an athlete, your determination life of the saints. to make it through to the other side, to accomplish what you desire, leaves a For instance, consider what is positive impression on those who commonly called the "Lord's Prayer" have observed how you handled the in Matthew 6:9-13 (more appropriate­ circumstances. How much more when ly called the model prayer). Here, the others notice your devoted prayer life Lord taught His disciples how to pray. to the God of all glory? They note The Lord taught them to appeal to the your appeal to the Lord for strength, Father with gratitude about the holi­ your positive disposition that all will ness of His name, the righteousness of work out, and if it does not work out the life they are to live, the provisions in your favor, how it is that you re­ of life they need in order to survive on spond to the Lord after that. earth, the protection from evil each disciple longs to have, and the for­ The Lord is on your side and with giveness of sins that can come only that there is no doubt! This is not a from God. willful belief generated on the basis of "I want to believe." This is a response In Luke 6:12-16, the Lord Jesus of the mind and heart devoted to Him was engaged in prayer to the Father who is able to do exceedingly more all night before His arose in the morn­ than all we hope, think or can ask. It ing to call to Himself the twelve men was the Lord who said to the religious who would serve as apostles (cf. John leaders of His day, "you are in error 6:70). While in the Garden, just be­ because you (the Sadducees) do not fore His arrest and kangaroo-court­ know the scripture, and neither do you trial that was forthcoming, Jesus was in prayer (John 17), praying to the

12 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r Father for the men He chose to carry about to present; then the petition it­ His message from Jerusalem to the self concisely expressed, and the further parts of the world. When was prayer is concluded" (Original Com­ the last time you spent two hours in mentary on Acts, p. 23). devoted prayer to the Father, to say H. Leo Boles, however, saw the nothing of the whole night? perplexity of this in his remarks on Deity Acts 1, believing the word "Lord" can The necessity of prayer in the life be understood to refer to the Father of the redeemed is in relation to Deity. and to the Son (Commentary on Acts, To whom shall we pray? Can we pray p. 30). to God, the Son as well as to God, the Yet, Wayne Jackson succinctly Father? The question is not new alt­ states, "The context here would indi­ hough it has been revisited recently. cate that they were addressing Jesus, The Lord plainly said to His disci­ who chose the original group (1:2), ples, "And in that day ye shall ask me and who is designated as 'Lord' in no question. Verily, verily, I say unto verse 21" (The Acts ofthe Apostles, p. you, if ye shall ask anything of the 14). Some brethren have also disa­ Father, he will give it you in my greed with brother Jackson on this name" (John 16:23). issue. We also fmd the following in John Can Christians solicit Christ in 14:13-14: "And whatever you ask in prayer today? The norm (if you will) My name, that I will do, that the Fa­ is to address one's prayer to the Father ther may be glorified in the Son. If through the name (by the authority) of you ask anything in My name, I will Jesus. But, if one offers a prayer to the do it" (NKJV). However, due to tex­ Lord Jesus, as the apostles did in Acts tual variants in the passage, the ESV 1:24, are we to understand that their and NASB render v.14 accordingly: prayer won't be heard or accepted? Is "If you ask Me anything in My name, it the case one must have in mind, and I will do it." even say, "Lord Father ... " before the prayer is heard? The issue continues in the book of Acts, as the disciples prayed to the It seems that since Jesus is "Lord "Lord." Often, "Lord" refers to Jesus. and God" prayers addressed to Him, For instance, in Acts 1:6, 21, 24, the while not the norm, would be perfect­ word "Lord" is used three times. Each ly acceptable since He and the Father time it refers to Jesus, to whom a are one (John 10:30). It was Jesus prayer was addressed in 1:24. who said He was the "I am" of Exo­ dus 3 (John 8:58). Obviously Thomas J.W. McGarvey wrote, "Here is a said to Jesus, not merely concerning simple address to the Lord, beautifully Jesus, in John 20:28, "My Lord and appropriate to the petition they are my God!" G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 13 Whatever we conclude on this mat­ pray (Matthew 6:9-13). His prayer ter, essentially we should all agree recorded in John 17 is without equal. that when prayer is offered to God The requests He made in that prayer through the devotion, dependence, were ruled by incomparable rever­ and determination of His faithful chil­ ence, humility, and gratitude. In larg­ dren it lands at the feet of Him who er measure, His life exemplified not sits on His throne receiving our anxie­ only His devotion to the Father, but ty because He cares for us (I Peter also the language of prayer. 5:7). For that we should be most Inspired by God, the apostle Paul, thankful. recorded a number of his prayers. The book of Ephesians contains two of those "inspired prayers." The first The Language of Praver chapter contains, what must be finally spoken of as an "anthem of praise" to Ronald Bryant God (Ephesians 1:3-14). It indicates that the language of prayer is the lan­ When do you pray? Where do you guage of praise. The expression go to pray? What kind of words do "Blessed be God ... " literally means you use? Do you value the blessing "praise be to God." of prayer? In Ephesians 1:15-16, Paul ex­ Our prayers reveal a great deal pressed thanksgiving for the church, about us. They reveal much more and his words stand as an example of about our spiritual health and maturity the expression of thanksgiving in that we are prone to think. They tell prayer. Paul was specific in the ex­ of our grasp of truth and the measure pression of his thanksgiving. of our devotion. They declare the In Ephesians 1: 17-19, Paul made depth of our reverence and humility. requests for the church. His requests A prayer is not a speech made to were connected with Christ, and with God or man. It is not a performance, the power by which He was raised nor a ritual. God is the focus; He is from the dead. Paul was mindful of the one addressed. Faith in Him, and the fact that the same power was in­ love for Him leads one to pray, even volved in the elevation of the re­ as it leads one to examine and strive deemed - the church (Ephesians I :20- to correctly order every aspect of his 23). life. Empty words, no matter how Paul's prayer (the words he used) well rehearsed or polished finally stand in dramatic contrast to the weaken one spiritually! words and phrases we commonly use! The Lord Jesus Christ prayed of­ Questions: (1) Do we pray like Paul ten, and He taught His disciples to did? (2) Can we do so? 14 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r Beginning in Ephesians 3:14, Paul In this regard, it is to be carefully recorded another prayer. He began considered that two things make us with a heart-warming expression: "I strong: ( 1) A deep sense of need, and bow my knee unto the Father." The {2) A strong hope of supply. That focus of prayer is "the Father." He is supply, God alone can provide, and the one, "from whom the whole fami­ furthermore, He desires to do so. In ly in heaven and earth is named." The this regard, it is to be insisted that the family (the church) is named by Him! language of prayer is the language of (Doubtless this implies more than "need" and of"desire." simply a verbal designation.) The Paul wrote of God's power for the church is the family-the redeemed­ benefit of the church - "the exceeding those who are one with the Father and greatness of His power toward us who with one another. The language Paul believe" - and exalted God as being used expresses the intimate spiritual "able to do more than we can think or unity of God's people. ask" (Ephesians 3:20-21 ), "According Paul then spoke of "the riches of to the power that works in us" (Ephe­ His glory," and requested that the sians I: 19-23). church be strengthened with might by To read and reflect upon Paul's His Spirit in the inner man" (Ephe­ prayers (inspired prayers) is to be sians 3: 16). The redeemed are not drawn to ask a number of questions. only recipients of "all spiritual bless­ The following are only suggestive: Is ings" (Ephesians 1:3), they are also this the focus and content of our pray­ recipients of the virtues of spiritual ers? Do our prayers manifest a genu­ devotion. Paul expressed this request, ine desire to know and to honor God? "that Christ may dwell in your hearts Above all else, do the words of our by faith" (Ephesians 3: 17), thus sup­ prayers manifest a reverence for God, plying the sense of belonging; having and a passion for Him? their hearts and minds molded and revitalized, enabling them to be "root­ ed and grounded in love" that they may together come to comprehend God's love and surpassing knowledge. Paul prayed for their greatest need; their coming to grasp God's love, to the end they be "filled with all the fullness of God" (Ephesians 3: 19). His words illustrate the depth of pray­ er. Christians are to attain spirituality, and they are to desire to do so.

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 15 God's Answers to Praver

David O'Connell

Prayer has always been an im­ 50:20). This shows that God does portant part of worship for God's work providentially for his people. people. Many Christians realize that Another way that God works in the prayer is not only limited to specific world today is by answering prayer. worship periods but is utilized The fact that God answers the throughout their everyday activities. prayers of His people is abundantly In corporate worship, many hymns are affirmed in the Scriptures (Isaiah prayers. The songs "Dear Lord and 55:6; 65:24; Matthew 6:5-13; 18:19; Father of Mankind," "Guide Me, 0 21:22; John 14:13; 15:7,16; James Thou Great Jehovah," "Father, We 1:5-7). There are many examples of Thank Thee," and "We Praise Thee, 0 God answering prayer. Some of these God" are just a few of the prayer would be: Hannah (1 Samuel 1:9-12), songs that are a part of our congrega­ Elijah (James 5: 17), and the Jerusalem tional worship. church (Acts 12:5-12). There is no Some have accused the Lord's doubt that the first century church was church of believing that God is not a praying church, because Jesus was a active in the world today. It has been Man of prayer. Since it emphasizes argued: "We believe God wrote the the prayer life of Jesus so much, the Bible and finished it at the end of the Gospel of Luke has been designated first century. Since then, we do not as "the gospel of prayer." Also, the believe God has done anything." Gospel of John has one whole chapter Nothing could be further from the containing a prayer of our Lord (John truth! 17:1-26). The Scriptures teach that miracu­ The question often arises: "Why lous revelation and spiritual gifts were didn't the Lord answer my prayer?" limited to the first century ( 1 Corin­ One might request healing for a sick thians 13:8-10; Ephesians 4:11-13). spouse or child, and then the loved However, that does not mean that God one dies. A Christian might ask the is not acting in the world today. Cer­ Lord to have a job with a specific tainly, God acts through His providen­ company, and then he is not hired. A tial care. preacher might pray for the local Joseph is a clear example of this. church to grow, and then this does not At the end of his life, he said to his happen. People often claim: "God did brothers: "You meant it for evil, but not hear my prayer." The truth is that God meant it for good" (Genesis 45:8; God heard and answered the prayer.

16 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r People often forget that there are the night season, and am not silent" many ways God can answer prayer. (Psalms 22:2). The Lord was telling First, the Lord could answer a prayer David to wait. with a "yes." In effect, the Lord is Jeremiah, the prophet, had to wait saying, "Yes - that is exactly what is ten days to receive an answer to his needed in this case." Elijah's request prayer (Jeremiah 42:4-7). for no rain (James 5: 17) and Jonah's Mary and Martha wanted Jesus to request to be delivered from the belly come immediately and heal Lazarus. ofthe great fish (Jonah 2:1) are exam­ However, they had to wait four days ples of God responding with a "Yes - before the Lord came (John 11: 17). this is exactly what you need." There When Jesus came, it was on God's are many examples of this in the timetable. Scriptures. The Hebrews prayed to be deliv­ Second, the Lord may say, "No." ered from Egyptian bondage. God In effect, the Lord is saying, "No - knew they needed a deliverer, but that is not what is best for you." The Moses was not ready until he had Lord Jesus was praying to His Father spent forty years in Midian (Acts to "remove this cup" (Matthew 26:39- 7:29-30). 44). This was a prayer for God to re­ move the suffering that He was about The children of Israel were praying to go through. for hundreds of years for God to send the Messiah. The Scriptures state that The Bible teaches that God heard Jesus came "in the fullness of time" His Son: "Who in the days of his (Galatians 4:4). It was the best time flesh, when he had offered up prayers for the Savior to come into the world. and supplications with strong crying Our Heavenly Father answered the and tears unto him that was able to prayers for the coming of the Messiah save him from death, and was heard in at just the right time. If Jesus had that he feared" (Hebrews 5:7). Yet, come one or two hundred years soon­ the Father said, "No, you must go er, it would have been too early, and through this suffering." In our society the world-wide circumstance would today, many people have forgotten not have been perfect for the spread of that "no" is still an answer. It may not the kingdom. God knew when the be the answer we desire, but "no" is time was best. still a valid answer. Fourth, the Lord may answer pray­ Third, the Lord may answer pray­ ers by saying, "Yes - but your request ers by saying, "Yes- but not now." In needs some adjustment." In effect, the effect, the Lord is saying, "Yes - but Lord is saying, "I hear you and will you need to wait a while." The psalm­ answer you, but the request should be ist cried out, "0 my God, I cry in the altered slightly." daytime, but thou hearest not; and in G o s p e I G I e a n e r 117 A missionary' s heart' s desire may and more." When King Solomon be to go to Brazil, but the Lord wants prayed for wisdom, the Lord granted him to go to South Africa. Paul want­ him wisdom and enormous wealth and ed to go throughout Asia (that is , Asia honor (I Kings 3 :5-15). This is an Minor). He wanted to go into Mysia illustration of God giving what was and Bithynia. However, God wanted requested and more. The apostle Paul Paul in Troas so that he could then affirmed this point when he wrote that have the dream about going to Mace­ God " is able to do exceeding abun­ donia (Acts 16:6-12). Were there lost dantly above all that we ask or think" people in Asia? Yes. Were there lost (Ephesians 3:20). people in Mysia and Bithynia? Yes. In summary, God can say: (1) Yes, However, God's plan was for Paul to (2) No, (3) Yes- but wait a while, (4) go to Philippi. Paul's desire to preach Yes - but adjust your request, or (5) the gospel had to be altered slightly, Yes - and more. because of God' s wisdom and infinite As the old hymn says: " 0 how knowledge. praying rests the weary! Prayer will When Paul prayed for the Lord to change the night to day; so, when life remove his thorn in the flesh, God seems dark and dreary, don't forget to said, "My grace is sufficient for thee" pray." (2 Corinthians 12:7-9). Paul asked the God will answer every prayer. It Lord three times to remove this disa­ may not be the answer that we want, bility and was praying for physical but our Heavenly Father will answer relief. The Lord responded with a every prayer. It is wonderful to keep spiritual quality (grace) as the answer. in mind that, oftentimes, He gives us Many people are disappointed if the more than we requested. Lord says, in effect, "Let me adjust your request - just a little." People need to remember that the all ­ knowing, all-wise, all ­ f loving Father in heaven I will do what is best for us. j Fifth, the Lord may 'r answer a prayer by say­ --,. ing, "Yes - I will give you what you ask for

18 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r Plagiarism among Preachers

Steve Higginbotham

I used to receive a church bulletin sermons as though the events actually from a church in Texas and I noticed happened to him. that nearly every week, the preacher at On another occasion, I had finished this church was publishing in their preaching a sermon in a gospel meet­ bulletin, articles that I had written. ing and a preacher who was in the However, he was making one minor assembly asked me if I had copied change to those articles. He was using that sermon from another preacher. "Whiteout" to remove my name under He said my sermon was nearly "word­ the title and was inserting his name in for-word" of what he heard another its place. When I inquired about his preacher preach. Out of curiosity, I practice, he offered no apology, but went to this preacher's website and simply removed me from their bulle­ discovered that every week, for the tin mailing list. past six years, this preacher has I once received an email from a preached my sermons at his congrega­ preacher who asked me if he could tion, title by title, point by point, sub­ reprint some articles I had written. I point by subpoint, the week after I told him, "of course he could, and that preach them at mine. He's not had an he need not ask for my permission." original thought to share with his con­ He wrote back and thanked me and gregation in six years! then asked, "Can I remove your name These examples are a small sam­ from the articles?" I wrote back and pling of acts of plagiarism by preach­ simply told him that one should never ers. Because of this, I thought I would remove an author's name from his share a few thoughts on this topic that writings. I soon received a final email might be helpful to all of us who write explaining why he asked this ques­ and preach. tion. He shared with me that he had Why Do Preachers Plagiarize? recently been fired from the church because his elders had discovered he Laziness. Some preachers are just was removing my name from articles too lazy to do their own study, re­ I wrote and was passing them off as search, and sermon preparation. It's his own. much easier to rely on someone else to do the hard work of sermon devel­ I have also learned of another opment. Some preachers have found it preacher who, for years, has been tak­ easier to be a "Public Speaker" than a ing personal illustrations that I use in "legitimate Gospel Preacher." my sermons and using them in his

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 19 Pride. Some preachers fail to give Unbeknownst to me, this preacher credit because they are full of pride. promptly published my article in our They want to take credit for a memo­ local newspaper, but removed my rable thought, a pithy quote, or a crea­ name from the article and put his own tive phrase. They feign insightfulness name on it. So when I published my in order to receive misplaced appreci­ article a week later, people thought ation and respect of men. Their pride that I had blatantly plagiarized his is more important to them than their work. I spoke to this preacher about integrity. what he had done and he said, "Don't To Look Intelligent. Some get so focused on who gets credit for preachers fail to give proper credit the article, just be thankful the truth because they think it will make others was taught." I explained to him that think less of their intelligence. How­ my concern was not a matter of"cred­ ever, quite the opposite is true. By it" but it was a matter of my reputa­ taking the time to credit another tion and credibility. What he had done speaker or writer, a preacher is actual­ caused, who knows how many people, ly demonstrating that he has studied, to think that I had plagiarized him, listened, read, and researched his sub­ potentially harming my integrity and ject matter. influence. Why Plagiarism Matters It Harms the Cause of Christ. As spokesmen for God, we must give It Harms One's Own Influ­ care to protect our integrity. If we ence. It's only a matter of time until show ourselves to be untrustworthy, it someone discovers plagiarism, and doesn't just reflect on us, but it also when it is discovered, the plagiarist's taints the cause of Christ. Paul told influence is all but destroyed. A Titus to be a pattern of good works preacher who plagiarizes proves him­ and in doctrine to show integrity, rev­ self to be unethical and consequently, erence, and incorruptibility, and to untrustworthy. If a gospel preacher speak in a way that no one can con­ doesn't have respect, credibility, and demn (Titus 2:7-8). When our actions trust, then of what value is he? Once don't rise to the level of the faith we discovered, people will stop listening preach, God is blasphemed (Romans and reading to be edified and chal­ 2:24). lenged but will start listening and reading to catch you in another How to Avoid Plagiarism "theft." Start doing your own research, It Harms The Influence of Oth­ study, and meditation. Open your ers. I once wrote an article I planned Bible and start mining for truths on on publishing the following week and your own before consulting what oth­ shared it with a preacher for review. ers have said about the text.

20 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r Start giving credit. It doesn't dis­ I know that we are all working tract from a sermon to attribute a from a single source, and it is highly quote or a well-turned phrase to the unlikely that you will come up with person who originally said it. Trying some insight that no one has ever be­ to take credit for another man' s work fore noticed. Surely, nearly everything is unethical and places you in opposi­ we say has been said before. I get that, tion to God. and that is not what I am talking about Learn from others, but do your in this article. I' m not talking about own work. Warren Wiersbe was two men studying a text and coming known for telling preachers to "milk away from it with the same or similar many cows, but churn your own but­ thoughts. What l am talking about is ter." In other words, research, read trying to take credit for another man 's after, learn from many sources, but work and words. Long ago, God told take that body of material and work it Jeremiah that he was against prophets into something that becomes your who were stealing his words from own. other prophets (Jeremiah 23:30). Try­ ing to take credit for another man' s Keep your pride in check. Poten­ work is unethical and places you in tially standing in front of hundreds of opposition to God. Let's repent, if people who regularly tell you how need be, and do better! wonderful, insightful, motivating, and ingenious you are can quickly go to your head. Pride is a plague among preachers. Don't become infected with it. Pray, stay on guard, en­ list your spouse to warn you if she sees signs of it, and purposefully practice humil­ ity to over­ n come this sin.

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 21 Biblical Preaching in Modern Times

Andy Erwin

"Preach the word! Be ready in save man from sin, so that he might season and out of season. Convince, enjoy an abundant life now and eter­ rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering nal life with God in heaven. 4 and teaching" (2 Timothy 4:2). Faithful preaching is not just a "Preaching is the communication of matter of style, taste, or preference. truth by man to men." 1 Biblical Whether or not one preaches the word preaching has always required preach­ of God is a matter of authority. From ing doctrine or "teaching" in a way whence does a preacher derive the that will "convince, rebuke, and ex­ necessary authority to solidify the hort" the hearer. Such preaching ap­ things his has to say? Or, why should peals to the "whole of man"2 realizing the listener believe his message is any the spiritual as well as the intellectual more truthful than one being advocat­ nature of man. ed by a Hollywood icon on a late night talk show? It's simple. That Through preaching, we address the which distinguishes the message of intellect; awaken the sensibilities; and the preacher from the message of the appeal to the will of the listener. 3 We world is the authority by which the encourage those listening to be "doers message is spoken. Biblical preach­ of the word and not hearers only" ing is a message authorized by God. (James I :22). We expect them to re­ It is the only message authorized by spond faithfully to the message, but God, as it is derived from the word of we should avoid gauging our success God. on the basis of their response. Haddon Robinson observed that The Resolve of the Preacher preachers face the pressing temptation Preachers must resolve, therefore, to deliver a message other than that of to "preach the word" regardless of the Scriptures, noting, " ... when they how God's divine truth may be re­ fail to preach the scriptures, they ceived by our fellow-man. Biblical abandon their authority. No longer do preaching is the declaration of the they confront their hearers with a Lord's message to man, in order to word from God. That is why most

1 Phillips Brooks, Lectures on Preaching New York: E.P. Dutton and Co., 1877), 5. 2 William, M. Smith, Twenty Lessons in Homiletics. (Noblesville, IN: Newby Book 4 Thomas H. Holland, Preaching: Principles Room, 1970), 9. and Practice. (Brentwood, TN: Penman Press, 3 William Smith, 9. 1988), 13. 22 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r modern preaching evokes little more use of scripture and truthfulness to the than a wide yawn. God is not in it."5 word. The other type of preacher deems his sermon to be successful When preachers forsake the word when it is received gladly by its lis­ of God in their messages they forsake teners. The result of this approach is their authority and abandon their true the avoidance of any sermon that usefulness in ministry. Only by might be deemed even mildly contro­ preaching the word can a preacher versial. Every preacher must decide if speak with all authority (Titus 2:15). he is determined to serve man or God The Intention of the Sermon (Galatians 1: 10). In his book, Saddlebags, City The desire to please people rather Streets, and Cyberspace (A History of than God prompted H.C. Brown, Jr., Preaching in the Churches ofChrist),6 to write of the "clown prince of the Michael W. Casey gave good atten­ pulpit." He observed how "the clown tion to the impact of speech training prince of the pulpit ... is so addicted to among our preachers in the second the laughter and applause of the peo­ half of the twentieth century. Casey ple that he constantly overuses it [hu­ researched the drift that has taken mor]. Rather than sprinkling a little place from the kind of message/truth­ salt on steak, he sprinkles hamburger oriented sermons that used to domi­ meat on blocks of salt."7 nate church pulpits to the predomi­ Forty years after H.C. Brown's nately listener-oriented preaching of comment, it is still commonplace to today. This shift, though subtle and hear preachers giving lessons filled over a period of time, is one of the with personal testimonials and hu­ ways the contemporary world has morous anecdotes, rather than honor­ affected the modern pulpit. ing God and pointing the way to Him The primary difference in the two through His divine truth. Preachers styles of preaching and preacher being such as "the clown prince" and the considered is that one is devoted to one "preaching to please" have deval­ the content of the sermon primarily, ued the work and the authority of the while the other is primarily concerned preacher in the contemporary world. with how the sermon is being received A third type of preacher must also by the listener. One type of preacher be considered, and we believe this judges his sermon on the basis of its type should be the pattern for every gospel preacher. He is the preacher 5 Haddon W. Robinson, Biblical Preaching. who preaches the truth through his (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2001), 20. 6 Michael W. Casey, Saddlebags, City 7 H. C. Brown, Jr. A Quest for Reformation Streets & Cyberspace. (Abilene, TX: ACU in Preaching. (Nashville: Broadman Press, Press, 1995). 1968), 18. G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 23 personality. Preaching truly is the essence" of Christianity, 10 and we conveyance of truth through personal­ must be able to distinguish between ity.8 The preacher must endeavor to be biblical preaching and non-preaching himself as attempting to act or mimic if our pulpits are to be impactful. 11 another's personality in the pulpit is Indeed, much preaching has come "worse that offensive; for it robs the to be viewed as a human endeavor to man of that distinctive and individual please with the interest centering upon power which God has given to him for spontaneity rather than substance; and the very purpose of ministering to his passion above preparation. 12 We are efficiency. "9 advocating preaching that is full of A preacher must realize the chal­ both passion and preparation. The lenge in every sermon is to present a sermon must be true to the text and message that is both biblical and ap­ presented with the utmost desire of pealing to man. Being biblical does helping people to make an applica­ not require being boring. W.A. Brad­ tion, be reconciled to God, and live a field was one of the most biblical life which honors Him .. preachers of his day. He was far from A New Homiletic boring. He was passionate and persua­ sive. He was one of the most success­ A "new hermeneutic" and subse­ ful preachers of his era. In the decade quent "new homiletic" grew out of the of the 1960s nearly I 0,000 people ideals of a few misguided church responded publicly to his messages. leaders and scholars in second half of We could use a little of that passion the twentieth century. They advocated today! that the Bible must be interpreted and preached experientially, culturally, Such a preacher cares about the and relatively. They began with a low truthfulness of the message and its view of scripture 13 and have led their reception. The people must know that followers to an even lower view of their preacher loves them; but they scripture. must also know that he loves God more. The experiential approach causes men to believe the scripture says what The sermon must direct the "you feel it says." The cultural ap- thoughts of the audience to and through the teachings of scripture. The preacher must be the conduit. 10 Samuel, T. Logan, Jr. (Ed.). The Preach­ Such biblical preaching is of the "very er and Preaching. (Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyter­ ian and Reformed Publishing Company, 1986), 2. II Jbid J 8 Phillips Brooks, 5. 12 Ibid: 5: 9 William M. Taylor, The Ministry of the 13 Jimmy Jividen, More than a Feeling. Word (Grand Rapids, Ml: Baker Book House, (Nashville: Gospel Advocate Company, 1999), 1975), 5. 138. 24 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r proach would have the meaning of the ing with deceptive words" (2 Peter text changing with the times to meet 2:3), in order to receive "wages of the latest liberation theology, etc .. unrighteousness" (2 Peter 2: 13). Such And the relative view is simply that an agenda will be reflected in the con­ " ... you can have 'your truth' and I gregation long after he is gone. can have 'my truth.",.4 To fulfill one's ministry (2 Timo­ How shall gospel preachers re­ thy 4:5), a preacher must work and spond to the intuition and intellect of preach with the intention that the con­ the modem man? First, we must rec­ gregation will be healthy and pleasing ognize the difference between crafting to God even after he has left them. a message of truth in such a way that Such desire indicates the difference our audience will be engaged in the between a preacher who is self­ text, and forsaking the text altogether serving and a preacher who is a serv­ to replace it with jokes, stories, and ant to others, and most of all, to God. anecdotal material in order to be in Two Questions their good graces. On the one hand the audience is engaged with the presenta­ Every preacher should be required tion of the Scriptures through good to answer two questions. (1) Why do homiletical skills. On the other hand, you want to preach? (2) What type of the audience is riveted by a message preaching is needed today? If no one which could have served just as well is willing to ask him these questions, as an after dinner speech at the Rotary he should at least be willing to ask Club. them of himself. The real test of a preacher's effec­ Is the preacher's concern to preach tiveness will come after the preacher Jesus and bring people closer to God has left the pulpit. Will his work stand (1 Corinthians 1:23; 2 Corinthians the test of time ( cf. 1 Corinthians 4:5; Colossians 1:27-29)? Will he 3:13)?15 His works will follow him, preach Christ to the glory God (1 Pe­ for better or worse. ter 4: 11 )? Will he preach the cross in order to save men from their sins (1 If a man's ministry is only to his Corinthians 1: 18, 21 )? Will he humble personal self-interests, job security, himself to exalt His God? Preachers and keeping the majority happy, he is who will answer "yes" to such ques­ doing nothing more than "peddling tions will likely answer "yes" when the word" (2 Corinthians 2: 17), and called upon to provide biblical preach­ will eventually find himself "exploit- ing. God will use such a man to en­ sure the congregation has the kind of 14 Ibid 139 preacher and preaching which is 15 Andrew W. Blackwood, Preaching from needed most in this present evil age the Bible. (Nashville: Abingdon-Cokesbury Press, 1941 ), 224. (Galatians I :4) G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 25 THE HOLY SPIRIT PROMISED TO THE APOSTLES

Raymond Elliott

In an effort to understand a passage addressing when He spoke of the of scripture two questions among oth­ promise of another Comforter who ers should be considered, namely: would be sent to help and assist them who is the speaker, and to whom is he in the preaching of the truth after His speaking? This will contribute greatly departure. to the right interpretation of a passage Religious leaders of various de­ of scripture. nominations often apply what Jesus We have no problem in under­ said to the apostles about the Holy standing that it was God who was Spirit to all believers in Christ. This speaking to Noah instructing him to is also the case among some teachers build an ark (Genesis 6); it was Abra­ and writers who are members of the ham that God directed to offer up his church. For example in a devotional son Isaac upon an alter (Genesis 22); publication that provides wonderful and, it was the rich young ruler that inspirational thoughts for each day of Jesus required to sell all that he had the year one writer asserted, "When and give to the poor (Mark I 0). This Jesus went back to His Father, He sent principle would also be true in the the Holy Spirit as a Comforter and a study of the epistles that men who Guide to teach us all things and to were inspired by the Holy Spirit wrote bring all things to our remembrance. to various congregations and individ­ We have the power on our spiritual uals. journey. When faced with a mountain, don't fear or cry out. Take action! Use Some of the most misunderstood the power He has given us. Say, 'I can passages in the New Testament re­ do all things through Christ which garding the Holy Spirit are found in strengthened me' (Philippians 4:13)." the gospel according to John, chapters 14, 15, 16.1t is plain to see that the While recognizing the sincerity setting of these particular chapters in and integrity of the Christian who John is the occasion when Jesus was wrote the preceding words, it must be eating the Passover Supper with his brought out that this is a misunder­ twelve apostles (See Matthew 26:20; standing and a misuse of this passage Mark 14:17; Luke 22:14). So, Jesus of scripture that is found in John was the speaker and the twelve apos­ 14:26 which reads, "But the Comfort­ tles were the ones to whom Jesus was er, even the Holy Spirit, whom the

26 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r Father will send in my name, he shall In Acts 2:1-4 we find the record of teach you all things, and bring to your the twelve apostles being filled with remembrance all that I said to you" the Holy Spirit on the day of Pente­ (ASV). cost as the Lord had previously prom­ ised them. It is also recorded in John 16: 13, "However, when He, the Spirit of The apostle wrote in 1 Corinthians truth, has come, He will guide you 2:10: "But God has revealed them to into all truth; for He will not speak on us through His Spirit. For the Spirit His own authority, but whatever He searches all things, yes, the deep hears He will speak; and He will tell things of God." Paul made it very you things to come." clear that which He and the other apostles taught were of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit would therefore as recorded in 1 Corinthians 2:12-13: assist the apostles in the following: (1) teach them all things; (2) bring to their "Now we have received, not the spirit remembrance what Jesus wanted them of the world, but the Spirit who is to know; (3) He would guide them from God, that we might know the into all truth; (4) the Holy Spirit things that have been freely given to would also tell the apostles things that us by God. These things we also were to come. speak, not in words which man's wis­ dom teaches but which the Holy Spirit In Luke 24:49, prior to His ascen­ teaches, comparing spiritual things sion, Jesus spoke these words to His with spiritual." apostles: "Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in The apostle also claimed that he the city of Jerusalem until you are received what he proclaimed regard­ endued with power from on High." ing the "mystery of Christ," "by reve­ lation" from the Lord (Ephesians 3:3- Luke records basically the same 6). Concerning the gospel which Paul instructions as recorded in Acts 1:4. In preached he wrote in Galatians 1: 11 , verse 5 of Acts 1, He informed the 12: "But I make known to you, breth­ apostles that they would "be baptized ren that the gospel which was with the Holy Spirit not many days preached by me is not according to from now." man. For I neither received it from Jesus also said, "But you shall re­ man, nor was I taught it, but it came ceive power when the Holy Spirit has through the revelation of Jesus come upon you; you shall be witness­ Christ" es to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth" (Acts 1:8).

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 27 The writings of both the Old and New Testaments came by the "inspira­ tion of God" (2 Timothy 3:16, 17). In the beginning of the church age the inspired word was first in men.

Later, as the men who were inspired A Graduate Degree for the of the Holy Spirit began to write the Working Minister various epistles, the inspired word was ONLINE! both in men and in written form. Even­ The Bear Valley Bible Institute Gradu­ tually, the time came when that "which ate Studies Program was designed with is perfect is come " that which " is in the local preacher in mind. The student part shall be done away " (I Corinthians can complete the program without 13 :9, 10). That is to say, the revealed leaving his current ministry. will of God for man was now complete Earn a Master's Degree In: and no longer partly in man and partly • Biblical Studies in written form . + Theological Studies Eventually, Jude would write in his shott epistle these words: " Beloved, www. wetrainpreachers.com while I was very diligent to write to Contact BVBI you concerning our common salvation, {303} 986-5800- Main I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for {800} 766-4641- Toll Free the faith which was once for all deliv­ [email protected] ered to the saints" (verse 3). Bear Valley Bible lnstitutte The system of faith was once and for all time deposited and there is no 2707 S. Lamar Street additional revelation from God needed. Denver, Colorado 80227 The work of the Holy Spirit in reveal­ ing all the truth necessary for our salva­ Denny Petrillo, President tion has been completed. Donnie Bates, Dean, Graduate Studies

28 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r Remembering V.P. Black

Hugh Fulford

In a meeting with Plateau, his home congregation, there were 52 baptisms. When I moved to Mobile in 1972 to preach for the Pleasant Valley church I was fortunate that brother Black still lived in the city, and while I had known of him for many years, and had heard him preach on a few occasions, I was able to get to know V. P. BLACK (1918-2007) him better.

Vanderbilt Pierpont (V. P.) Black After giving up regular preaching was born on December 15 , 1918 in for the Plateau church, brother Black Millpori, Alabama. He was baptized devoted his time to preaching in gos­ into Christ in 1936 and began preach­ pel meetings all across the country, ing in Booneville, Mississippi in preaching in up to 45 meetings per 193 8. He served congregations in year. Even while engaged in local Booneville; A von Park, Florida; and work, he often preached in 12 to 18 then the Plateau church in Mobile, meetings each year. Alabama for over 20 years. One of the things that always im­ After resigning the pulpit at Plat­ pressed me about V. P. Black (besides eau, brother Black continued to serve his matchless preaching) was the fact as one of the elders of the congrega­ that he would go wherever the breth­ tion and his association with the Plat­ ren called him, making no distinction eau church extended over 40 years. between big churches and small He was highly esteemed by the Plat­ churches, rich churches and poor eau church, as well as the Lord' s peo­ churches. He was equally at home ple throughout the city of Mobile. preaching in meetings in Gaskin, Flor­ ida or Quitman, Mississippi as in In 1965, when the churches of preaching in meetings at the Universi­ Christ in Mobile decided to conduct a ty church in Abilene, Texas or the campaign for Christ, they immediately Prestoncrest church in Dallas! chose V. P. Black to be the speaker. The wisdom of their decision lies in Scott Harp tells of hearing brother the fact that during the campaign 269 Black on a sticky, hot summer night people responded to the gospel invita­ in a little country church south of tion, with 98 of these being baptisms. Haleyville, Alabama. He said the G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 29 speaker was dressed in an all-white ured. His language was elegant and suit, white shoes, "and not a wrinkle eloquent. It was uplifting to hear him could be found in his polished appear­ speak." ance." Scott continued: For many years brother Black "He began his sermon, as many do, served as Vice-President of Alabama soft-toned, kind and gentle. Not a time Christian College/Faulkner University did he look at a note, but with exact­ and raised thousands of dollars for the ness and clarity, he proceeded to school. He personally gave over preach the gospel of Jesus. It was not $100,000 to the school from the sale long before his passion for the mes­ of his books. He helped lead its tran­ sage was felt by all in the audience. sition from Alabama Christian Col­ His voice got louder and more con­ lege to Faulkner University. He also victing with every quotation of pas­ set up a $100,000 ministerial fund at sage upon passage of Scripture. Freed-Hardeman University to help train gospel preachers. "That man of God preached on the level of such intensity, that at times It can truthfully be said that V. P. his face turned blood red. Contrasted Black was "ready unto every good with the white suit he wore, the awe­ work" (Titus 3: 1). He authored at inspired audience in that little country least three books on stewardship (My church in North Alabama sat without God and My Money, Rust as a Wit­ so much as a blink of the eye for over ness, and Giving Our Way to Prosper­ an hour. What a preacher! What pas­ ity) and at least two volumes of ser­ sion! What a Savior he proclaimed!" mons (We Persuade Men and This Crooked Generation). J. D. Thomas My longtime friend, Alan Highers, of Abilene, Texas also published a shared with me his memories of volume of brother Black's sermons in brother Black who conducted a gospel the 12-volume series "Twentieth Cen­ meeting at the Getwell church in tury Sermons." Memphis when Alan served there as the local preacher. Alan wrote, A V. P. Black sermon that I have attempted to preach at various times "He was always a very snappy dress­ over the years is titled "Happiness: Is er. He liked Edwin Clapp shoes. His it Just a Word?" Brother Black was suits were always pressed, his shoes strong on the great fundamentals of were shined to perfection, he wore a the faith, but he also could address the stiff white collar. When he stepped everyday concerns of people's lives. into the pulpit, his appearance was He spoke numerous times on the lec­ impeccable and you expected to hear tureship programs of Faulkner Uni­ something. You would not be disap­ versity, Freed-Hardeman University, pointed. He was serious about preach­ as well as other schools among the ing. It seemed every word was meas- 30 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r people of God. From its inception in LGBTQ in SBL 1975 until 2004, he was an annual speaker on the Florida School of Andy Erwin Preaching Lectures in Lakeland, Flor­ On August 5, I received an email ida. from the Society of Biblical Literature The 1993 Freed-Hardeman lecture­ informing its members that "the SBL ship book was dedicated to him. In it Council formed an LGBTQ+ Task Winford Claiborne wrote: Force. The Task Force's charge is to identify how SBL can best support "One of the remarkable features ofhis LGBTQ+ scholars and scholarship preaching is that during his fifty-four and to report recommendations to years of preaching he has never been Council. involved in a church fuss or a church split. He believes if preachers were "Recommendations might include busy trying to convert people and policies, practices, and programs to teaching on unity and brotherly love assure: (1) the full participation of much of the trouble in the Lord's LGBTQ+ scholars in SBL; (2) their church would never have gotten start­ contribution to teaching, research, and ed or would cease. Brother Black's scholarship; and (3) the advancement influence has been positive and pow­ of the discipline, including the ways erful." in which the Task Force can impact the public square by promoting SBL's Freed-Hardeman University be­ core values of diversity and inclusivi­ stowed on him an honorary LL.D. ty." degree. For the last several years of his life, he and sister Black made their Here we have another example of home in Montgomery, Alabama. so-called biblical scholars advancing a far-left agenda. The list of churches Brother Black passed from this life now affirming and defending the on Sunday, February 4, 2007, at the LGBTQ movement is growing and age of 88. He is buried in Greenwood includes many major denominations Cemetery in Montgomery. Beyond in North America. Once a church be­ question, he was one of the truly great gins to compromise with sin, the gospel preachers of the past! depths to which it will sink are truly bottomless. A lesson must be learned from the sins of others. Let us hold fast to God's word. The best way to prevent compromising with the devil is never to begin.

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 31 OUR DUTY TO OTHERS Titus 2:11-12 INTRODUCTION A. Duty to God - put Him first- supreme duty and aim in life. B. Duty to self- own soul most important. C. Duty to others- our lesson today. DISCUSSION A. Love One Another. I. John 15:12 "This is My commandment that ye love one another." 2. John 13:34-35 "A new commandment I give ... " 3. 1 John 4:20 "If any man says I love God and hates his brother ... " B. Forgive One Another. I. Matthew 6:15 "If ye forgive not men their ... " 2. Matthew 18:21-22 "How oft shall my brother sin against me and I for­ give him?" 3. Luke 17:4 "And if he sin against thee seven times in a day and seven times in a day turns and says 'I repent' thou shalt forgive him." C. Bear One Another's Burdens. I. Galatians 6:2 "Bear ye one another's burdens ... " Help him. 2. Galatians 6:5 "For every man shall bear his own burden ... " Some things man must do for himself. D. Pray For One Another. I. I Thessalonians 5:25 "Brethren, pray for us." 2. James 5:16 "Confess your sins one to another ... " 3. 1 Samuel 12:23 "God forbid that I should sin against God in ceasing to pray for you." CONCLUSION A. Galatians 5:14 "For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." B. I Corinthians 13:13 "And now abideth faith, hope, and love, these three: and the greatest of these is love." -WA. Bradfield

32 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r The West Fayetteville Church of Christ

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Gospel Gleaner THE GOSPEL GLEANER WEST FAYETTEVILLE CHURCH OF CHRIST PO BOX456 FAYETTEVILLE, TN 37334

Return Service Requested Remembering AI Franks p. 28 ; R.W. Comer p. 31 November-December 2019 Gospel Gleaner For the lord, His Word, and His Church

The Cross of Christ Brokeu by SiHnllrf Healed by the Cross

Elliott Hamm What Does the Cross Mean to Me? p. 2

Ronald Bryant When I Survey the Wondrous Cross p.4

Andy Robison The Preaching of the Cross p. 7

John T. Polk, II Glorying in the Cross p. 10

Jimmy Clark The Way of the Cross Leads Home p. 13

Also in this issue

Johnny Trail Be Converted p. 15

Hugh Fulford Why Do Liberals Stay among Us ? p. 18

Owen D. Olbricht Keeping Jesus' Commandments p. 20

Andy Erwin Shepherd Leadership Models in the Scriptures p. 22

Mike Kiser What Held Jesus to the Cross? p. 30 "The Churches of Christ Greet You" (Romans 16:16)

The West Fayetteville Church of Christ is pleased to bring you the Gospel Gleaner. Are you familiar with the churches of Christ? Have you ever attended our services before?

Faithful churches of Christ desire to return to the New Testament and to be the church of the Bible. In the Bible, we find that the church is the assembly of all those who have been called out of the darkness of sin by obeying the gospel. These souls are added by God to the spiritual body of Christ, which is His church (Acts 2:42, 47; Ephesians 1:22-23).

The church belongs to Christ. It is His church. We, therefore, seek to honor Christ as our Lord in our worship, teaching, and daily walk.

One can be added to this sacred assembly and spiritual kingdom by hearing the gospel preached (Romans 10:17); believing the facts concerning Christ as revealed in the gospel (John 8:24); repenting of sin (Luke 13:3, 5); confessing faith in Christ (Romans 10:9-10); and by being baptized into Christ (Romans 6:3; Colossians 2:11-13; Galatians 3:26- 27) to wash sins away by the blood of Christ (Acts 22:16; Ephesians 1:7).

For more information about the church, or God's plan of salvation, we offer free Bible correspondence courses and personal Bible studies. Call or write to us.

The Gospel Gleaner PO Box 456 Fayetteville, TN 37334 www.gospelgleaner.com

Andy Erwin, Editor

Correspondences, news and notes, and article considerations can be sent electronically to andyerwin@ gospelgleaner.com. The West Fayetteville Church of Christ reserves the right of discretion in deciding which correspondences, news, notes, and articles to publish. '···~.., -~.., Inside this Issue Gospel Gleaner

Vol. 31 + No.6 Andy Erwin

WRITERS FOR THIS ISSUE In this issue of the Gospel Gleaner we I will be reflecting on the redemption made ~ possible by the death of our blessed Lord j Ronald Bryant ·~ and Savior Jesus Christ. The cross of Christ ~ Huntsville, Alabama separates the Christian religion from all the ~ other religions of men. No other religion has ;I a cross in it! JimmyOark !! Athens, Alabama We can never truthfully and fully know Jesus until and unless we know Him as the Andy Erwin crucified Savior of the world. Moreover, we will never reach our full potential toward Fayetteville, Tennessee God and toward man without understanding the cross. Such a lack of understanding is at Hugh Fulford the heart of many of society's ongoing prob­ Gallatin, Tennessee lems. We are also saddened by the untimely Elliott Hamm passing of a dear friend and borther, AI Hohenwald, Tennessee Franks. You will find a tribute to brother AI in this issue. You will also find a reprint of a Mike Kiser tribute to R.W. Comer. Brother Comer con­ Sylacauga, Alabama tinues to bless churches through the Comer Trust, which is to be distributed among Owen Olbricht churches of Christ in Tennessee and Ken­ Sherwood, Arkansas tucky. Hugh Fulford has also written an article John T. Polk, II asking the question, "Why do liberals stay Oneida, Tennessee among us?" You will find articles which encourage you to be obedient to Christ's commandments, to be converted to Christ, Andy Robison ~ and an article covering the theme of shep­ Moundsville, West Virginia herding in the Old Testament. Our prayer is that this issue of the Gospel Gleaner will be Johnny Trail a great benefit to you as you grow in the Springfield, Tennessee grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus J Christ (2 Peter 3: 18). ~~~~~~~~~~~ Gospel Gleaner 11 What Does the cross Mean to Meil Elliott Hamm

What does the cross mean to me? "Father, forgive them; for they know When I ask myself the question, I'm not what they do." reminded of the word purpose. Often, We can read of Jesus telling one of we hear individuals in society discuss the thieves with Him, "Verily I say the need to fmd their "purpose in unto thee, to day shalt thou be with life." What exactly does this entail? me in paradise." Amidst His own Are they searching for material suffering, He was describing things? Most importantly, where are salvation. they looking for guidance to defme their purpose? Are they searching the We can read of Jesus anticipating Scriptures? His death and being confident when He said in verse 46, "Father, into thy When I think of our purpose, I hands I commend my spirit." These immediately think of Ecclesiastes 12: powerful words spoken on the cross 13, "Fear God, and keep his still resonate with us today. Jesus was commandments." As Christians, how confident in His mission being do we answer the question regarding accomplished. He came to do His our purpose? Does it involve the Father's will (John 6: 38) and endured cross? the cross. Such forgiveness, salvation, "What does the cross mean to and confidence help us to see Jesus' me?" For myself, I think of Jesus and purpose and give us insight into our Jesus' purpose. If we recall, Jesus tells purpose. us in Luke 19: 10 that His purpose is When considering the meaning of to "seek and to save that which was the cross and Jesus, we cannot forget lost." Are we striving to follow in the another important part, which is His steps of Jesus? Are we trying to save death. But, what does His death the lost? We have been commanded as signify? Before we can answer this, much (Mark 16: 15). we need to clarify several facts. First, Let us use the example of Jesus on we must understand that His death the cross. It was from the cross that was not an accident or a mistake. It Jesus spoke His last words as a mortal was divinely determined. It was man. In Luke 23: 23 - 49, we have predestined, foreordained, and was the account of His crucifixion and God's plan. His plan was revealed death. We can read of Jesus being through the Old Testament prophets. forgiving. In verse 23 He said, Secondly, we know that Jesus' death

21Gospel Gleaner is proof that God loves us (John 3: recompensing death. Through His 16). Thirdly, Jesus even spoke of His death, we have atonement for sins. forthcoming death, as recorded in When thinking about Christ's John 12: 27 - 35. More specifically, death, let us look at the course of his this is discussed in verse 32 when death. It was cruel. Crucifixion was a Jesus says, "And I, if I be lifted up cruel method of execution. Under from the earth, will draw all men unto Roman law, this form of execution me." Jesus even went as far to explain was reserved for those condemned of His death in John 16: 25 - 33. Verse murder, theft, and insurrection. For 33 explains that He overcame the the Jews, this method of death was world. What does Jesus' death fitting for a blasphemer, which Jesus signify? His death signifies victory was accused, because of His being the (Luke 19: 30). Son of God (Luke 22: 66 -71). Jesus' A logical and thought-provoking death was intended to touch our question is, "What does Christ's death hearts. It should touch our hearts not mean to you?" When I think of Jesus' only emotionally, but spiritually. death, I think of the opportunity for As we reflect on our original the salvation that we have been question regarding the meaning of the offered (Luke 19: 10). I think of His cross, we can see the answer to this power to deliver us from the world question is rather difficult to simplify. (Galatians 1: 4). It is a question that also requires us to The Bible reveals to us what be reminded that our purpose in this Christ's death should mean to us; it life is to share God's word with others shows us the significance. It is evident so that we can live for Him. that Paul sees significance in the death We are also reminded that serving of Christ. In Philippians 2: 8, "And God may not always be easy. Jesus being found in fashion as a man, he suffered a cruel death on the cross to humbled himself, and became save us from sin. Despite obstacles obedient unto death, even the death of that may come our way, our victory is the cross." our eternal resting place with God in The significance is not just that Heaven. Jesus died, but how He died, "even By our answer, the cross means the death of the cross." Paul is purpose, saving the lost, salvation, teaching humility of the heart. Christ's victory, and atonement for sins. Now death was a showing of humility. the question remains, what does the Peter writes, in 1 Peter 2: 24, that "by cross mean to you? whose stripes ye were healed." When I read and study that passage, I see clearly that Jesus' death was a

Gospel Gleaner 13 When 1survev the wondrous Cross Ronald Bryant

In its physical essence there is of the place, the purpose, and the sig­ nothing attractive or appealing about nificance of the cross. The words of the crucifixion of Jesus. Physically, men will never be adequate to the there is nothing in it that inspires lofty task. thought or adoration. The incredible The death of Christ is undeniably a horror of His violent death is enough historical fact. It is not a religious to force any normal person to tum story or human theory. The facts sup­ away from that scene. The suffering, plied in Scripture stand above and the blood, and shame of execution is beyond the thoughts and the imagina­ set forth in horrific detail. To add to it tion of men. These facts are support­ the place, the hostility, the violence, ed by the testimony of many witness­ the terror, and the despair of the few es, and even by the critics. Among disciples who stood at a distance to the many witnesses are the writers of observe what was taking place, is to the books of the New Testament, and be drawn into their despair. those who proclaimed Christ as is Admittedly, the death of Christ on recorded in the book of Acts. The the hill of Golgotha (the place of the critics inadvertently supply evidence skull), is the most famous death in all of Christ, even as they deny Him. of history. Through the years, artists (How many non-entities are identified have tried to depict that event in de­ and opposed by scholars?) tail. Not surprisingly, a death on a The reality is that the death of cross on a hill that is part of a garbage Christ on the cross stands as the cen­ dump is not, nor can it ever be a thing ter-point of history, and of the Scrip­ of beauty. In the same vein, a carica­ tures. The Old Testament sets forth ture of a man's body on a "crucifix" is specific promises and prophecies but a misrepresentation of the real about the birth, the life, the death, the event. Additionally, a cross as a piece burial, and the resurrection of Christ. of jewelry may proclaim a message, One of the greatest and most benefi­ but who can really state what that cial studies is the study of the promis­ message is? es and prophecies of the Old Testa­ Biblical truth alone transforms and ment, and their fulfillment. Another elevates thought regarding the cross. study of tremendous benefit is in tak­ The "why" of the cross is established ing each book of the New Testament; by the Lord God of heaven in His studying each in turn, noting carefully inspired word. The whole of the Bi­ the statements made by Jesus about ble is necessary to an understanding His death (the predictions He made),

41Gospel Gleaner and then the accounts set forth detail­ Tragically, Pilate, the Roman gover­ ing the event itself. This is a demand­ nor, although confessing that Jesus ing study, for approximately one­ was innocent, was intimidated into fourth to one-third of each of the gos­ signing the death sentence demanded pels record the last week of Jesus' life by the Jewish leader - in a criminal on earth; specifically, the events ofthe act he participated in the death of Je­ trials, the suffering, His crucifixion, sus. His burial, and His resurrection. Ad­ In the face of the tragedy and vio­ ditionally, one can study the sermons lence of the crucifixion, there is this recorded in the book of Acts, which undeniable fact: Jesus came to earth, center upon the death, burial, and res­ not to live, but to die. He came to urrection of Jesus. The epistles also give His life as a ransom for all (Mark supply additional details regarding the 10:45; I Timothy 2:6). He repeatedly fact and the purpose of the death of and consistently declared this fact. Christ. It is evident that a prayerful At least seven hundred years be­ and consistent study of each of the fore Christ came to the earth, the sections of the whole Bible is essen­ prophet Isaiah wrote out the details tial. concerning the suffering and death of The Scriptures center upon God's Christ. He spelled out in clear detail purpose, not on the drama of some the facts and the purpose of the suffer­ events. What Jesus did and said is the ing and the death of Christ. (Read: focus of the New Testament, and they Isaiah 53:1-12). It was for us! focus upon the fulfillment of God's In Scripture, Christ is revealed as promises and prophecies regarding the perfectly sinless Son of God. He Him. Holy purposes alone transform is also identified with sinful men. He the events, explain the "Why" of the was spoken of as "the friend of sin­ cross. God's perspective and purpose ners." It is readily apparent that He alone sheds the necessary light upon did not view sinners as unworthy re­ the cross of Christ. The wisdom of jects. He sought to serve them and to man is not adequate to express its lead them to life eternal. He looked meaning or purpose. upon them as oppressed and as ruled Categorically, the crucifixion by their sins, but not as unworthy of stands as a horrific and tragic event. His life. Tragically, Jesus was despised and He, the "good Shepherd" gave His rejected by His own people. Tragical­ life for the lost (John 10:10-11). He ly, He was betrayed by one of His said, "Therefore My Father loves me disciples; Judas Iscariot. because I lay down My life that I may Tragically, the religious leaders: take it again. No one takes it from Me, the High Priest, the Sanhedrin, and the but I lay it down of Myself. I have Pharisees plotted to destroy Jesus. Gospel Gleaner IS power to lay it down, and I have pow­ that is, that God was in Christ recon­ er to take it again. This command I ciling the world to Himself, not im­ have received from My Father" (John puting their trespasses to them, and 10:17-18). has committed to us the word of rec­ In His death, Jesus clearly identi­ onciliation. Now then, we are ambas­ fied with sinners. He died between sadors for Christ, as though God were two thieves. His manner of death pleading through us; we implore you bore the stigma of a curse (Galatians on Christ's behalf, be reconciled to 3:10-13). He lived His life under the God. For He made Him who knew no shadow of an ignominious death. He, sin to be sin for us, that we might be­ the perfectly obedient Son of God come the righteousness of God in bore the sins of all mankind and be­ Him" (2 Corinthians 5:18-21). came the sacrifice for sin. He bore our It is correct to affirm that Jesus sin and our guilt, but not for any sins knew there was a price to be paid for of His own. He was never guilty of the salvation of sinners, and He paid sin! it. He knew that there was a judgment As the Son of God, He had perfect to be faced, and He faced it. He knew fellowship with His Father. That fel­ there was a penalty to the borne, and He bore it. He knew there was victory lowship was not broken except in that / moment when He was fully one as a to be won, and He won it. sacrifice for sin. The Father placed on May the Father hasten the day Him the sins of us all. He was in that when it is true and each of us can say, moment so fully identified with sinful "I have been crucified with Christ, it man, that He experienced the horror is no longer I who live, but Christ of separation from His Father. His lives in me: and the life which I now words reveal the price that He paid live in the flesh I live by faith in the (Matthew 27:46). (It is doubted that Son of God, who loved me and gave we will ever fully understand the ter­ Himself for me" (Galatians 2:20). ror that He knew, in that moment.). That moment passed and Jesus then declared, "It is finished." He was not saying, "it is over," but "it is ac­ complished." Heavens purpose was accomplished when Jesus became the sacrifice for sin. The Father was "in Christ" in that moment. Paul stated this clearly, "Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Him­ self through Jesus Christ, and has giv­ en us the ministry of reconciliation, GIGospel Gleaner The Preaching of the Cross

Andy Robison

The cross was torture and death for Christ's sake had become their own disgraced criminals and enemies of destiny. Whether Christ meant His the Roman state. The disciples under­ statement metaphorically (i.e. "You'll standably were shaken, therefore, have hard times"), or literally ("Some when Jesus said His followers had to of you will die by crucifixion"), it is take up one to follow Him. believed that many of these disciples This startling sequence of events experienced both. recorded is recorded in Matthew 16, People in the world thought them Mark 8, and Luke 9. First, upon Je­ quite foolish for this. They bucked sus' questioning of the disciples, Peter the tide of culture, stubbornly refused announces their conclusion that He is, religious submission to emperor wor­ indeed, the Christ. The next thing is ship, and upset the balance of pagan­ that Jesus announces the Jewish lead­ based economies for nothing but pain, ers will kill Him, and He will be anguish, and death for themselves. raised the third day. Apparently not Who but a fool would do that? processing the thought of a resurrec­ Saul of Tarsus was one who would tion, Peter rebukes Jesus for saying have thought them foolish. Quite He would be killed. That is when angered that these upstarts were Jesus says to Peter, "Get behind Me, wrecking the religion of his youth, his Satan." Peter's thinking was way too education, and his adult profession, he worldly. retaliated with persecution. He would At that point, Jesus makes the make sure some of them, at least met­ earth-shattering announcement that aphorically, carried their crosses. anyone who would follow Him must That is, until He saw a light on a take up a cross. Power and palaces trip, heard a voice, and went on into would not be the lot of Christ's fol­ the town of Damascus to hear more lowers; pain, anguish and sacrifice about the resurrected Lord. Then, he would be. If I were one of the twelve changed. What was foolishness to at that point, I think I would have him prior became salvation to him in been flustered, too. the end. The facts did not change, but Most of those twelve disciples his evaluation of them and his attitude would catch on after Jesus' resurrec­ toward them surely did. He went tion appearances, preach the cross from pushing the cross on the saved to faithfully through many trials, and preaching the cross to the lost. become martyrs for Christ's cause. What sounded outlandish to them in Gospel Gleaner 17 He, then, was uniquely qualified to ness and want to emulate it so much write the Spirit-inspired words, "For as they are called upon to do so. the message (preaching-KJV; " ... To those who are being saved, it is word-ASV) of the cross is foolish­ the power of God." ness to those who are perishing, but to It's all in how one looks at the mat­ us who are being saved it is the power ter, and how one looks at his or her of God" (1 Cor. 1: 18 NKN). life. Worldly wisdom is about self­ The very nature of the Christian advancement, power, money, and religion-taught from early in Jesus' prestige. But worldly wisdom, the ministry-was that it would be un­ apostle Paul (formerly Saul of Tarsus) popular and even counter-cultural. To concluded, was the real foolishness, those worldly folks who profess them­ the ultimate futility. "Has not God selves to be wise, but are the real fools made foolish the wisdom of this (Rom. 1:22), Jesus of Nazareth was world?" (1 Cor. 1:20). God had de­ nothing more than a rabble-rousing stroyed the wisdom of the wise on Old criminal rightly executed by the Ro­ Testament occasions (cf. lsa. 29:14; 1 man Empire as a matter of political Cor. 1: 19), and He did it again in the recourse. They didn't need trouble cross of Christ. and He was causing it, so the powers People might not like it, but God put Him to death. Why would any­ wins. "For Jews request a sign, and body follow Him? "The message of Greeks seek after wisdom; but we the cross is foolishness to those who preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a are perishing ... " stumbling block and to the Greeks Saved people, rather, see honor in foolishness, but to those who are humility. The Creator who made the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ world loved His people-the pinnacle the power of God and the wisdom of of His creation-enough to allow His God" (1 Cor. 1:22-24). The Creator only Son to leave the pleasantries of knows how His creation operates. It heaven and endure the trials of earth. might be corrupted in sin, but He is The Son loved enough to permit false not. Therefore, "the foolishness of accusations to spur against Him phys­ God is wiser than men, and the weak­ ical abuse ranging from spitting and ness of God is stronger than men" (1 slapping to ultimate stabbing to re­ Cor. 1:25). lease blood and water from the muti­ The Creator set forth a creation lated corpse. that was "very good" (Gen. 1:31). Saved people see and appreciate When corrupted with sin, the world's that "the Son of Man did not come to degradation and desperation is only be served, but to serve, and to give mitigated by those who will prac­ His life a ransom for many" (Mark tice-against all cultural tides­ 10:45). They appreciate such selfless- godliness. "Noah found grace in the SIGospel Gleaner eyes of the Lord," though colossal 1:27-29). Since God's ways are so judgment came on the rest (Gen. 6:8). unseemly to the world, His victory by He preached righteousness, and the those means becomes all the more masses would not listen (2 Pet. 2:5). amazing. God actively proved Himself right, No fleshly being or group thereof and the masses foolish. can invent a message even close to the The world corrupted itself in a vile humble and glorious, simple and cesspool of sin and violence (Gen. salvific word of the cross. They can 6:5, 11). God would not lower Him­ continue to think it foolishness, but self to such absence of standards. He for that stubbornness, they will some­ is holy, and His holiness would pre­ day pay. Those who embrace its sim­ vail-if only in a few (cf. 1 Pet. 1:15- ple, even (arguably) counterintuitive 16). wisdom-those who submit and carry The few, therefore, often call out their own crosses-will be the ones the most for their misguided ways. rewarded with a resurrection likened Few would find the narrow path, the to the one following that crucifixion at Savior taught in the Sermon on the Golgotha (cf. John 5:28-29; I John Mount (Matt. 7:13,14), but those few 3:1-3). would be a light to the world and salt Speakers may dazzle audiences to the earth (Matt. 5:13-16). They with brilliance, endear themselves to would be the ones holding forth the listeners with humor, or impress seek­ word of life when most were content ers with shallow truisms. Charlatans to walk into the wages of sin-death may tickle itching ears (2 Tim. 4:3). (Rom. 3:23; 6:21-23). Those who This is worldly wisdom and sophistry. seem unwise in the ways of the mass­ Contrarily, true evangelists preach es have been the ones carrying the the love of Christ and the response of widely misunderstood and ignored self-sacrifice it demands. This is the message of true wisdom. preaching of the cross. Not many of those high-minded people are called (1 Cor. 1:26). "But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to noth­ ing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence" ( 1 Cor. Gospel Gleaner 19 Glorvinu in the Cross

John T. Polk. II

"But God has chosen the foolish ers. Churches give in to this mania things of the world to put to shame the and compete by promotions within the wise, and God has chosen the weak local congregation ("Easter," things of the world to put to shame the "Christmas," "Mothers," "Fathers," things which are mighty; and the base "Grandparents," every special day, things of the world and the things except "The Lord's Day!") and with­ which are despised God has chosen, out ("featured worship entertain­ and the things which are not, to bring ment;" "famous speakers;" "awesome to nothing the things that are, that no recreational activities"). flesh should glory in His presence. Before any Christian can boast But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, because he/she is a "Christian," and who became for us wisdom from therefore to be elevated above all oth­ God--and righteousness and sanctifi­ ers, Paul reminds us that the "chosen" cation and redemption-- that, as it is of God are not those who would im­ written, 'He who glories, let him glory press the worldly: "foolish," "weak," in the LORD [taken from Jeremiah "base," "despised," "are not." 9:23-24]."' (1 Corinthians 1:27-31) A Christian should never expect It seems that it is a normal, worldly worldly recognition, acclaim, or ele­ attitude to "boast, or brag" about vation just by becoming a Christian. It one's achievements. This problem is only by realizing how low our lives was rife in the church of Christ at have become ("repenting") and enter­ Corinth. Nearly every Christian found ing the lowest point of Jesus' life on something about which to earth ("baptized into His death"), that brag/boast/glory, while trying to ele­ we fully appreciate what it means for vate themselves above others. In other God to "raise us to newness of life" words, to them, "glorying" seemed to (Romans 6:3,4). be a shortcut to spiritual recognition. Throughout the entire Epistle, the We must not boast that we are a inspired Apostle Paul dealt with this Christian, but that Jesus Christ made it most prevalent problem. It was of possible. "Therefore if the Son makes major concern then, and is probably you free, you shall be free indeed" even more so today! (John 8:36). No one is "free" from sins without Jesus Christ. Our present society gives ample opportunities for competition that Remember the principle "that no gives one "bragging rights" over oth- flesh should glory in His presence" (I 10 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r Corinthians 1:29), for no one should Christians must realize that, as brag/glory before God that they have Jesus has said, "when you have done grown spiritually because of: (1) who all those things which you are com­ preached to them (1: 10-12; 3: 1-11); manded, say, 'We are unprofitable (2) who baptized them (1:13-17); (3) servants. We have done what was our their prominence before baptism duty to do"' (Luke 17: 10). (1;18-29); (4) following after men As a matter of fact, we cannot (1:30-31; 3:18-21); (5) not following boast of our future without God. Sol­ Scripture (4:6-16); (6) not needing the omon said: "Do not boast about to­ Apostle Paul to visit them (4:17-21; 2 morrow, For you do not know what a Corinthians 10:7-11; 11:16-31); (7) day may bring forth" (Proverbs 27:1). sympathizing with the immoral (5:1- James confirmed this for us today 7). (James 4:13-17). Every problem in the Corinthian People boast/brag/glory about church that caused division among themselves when they refuse to them centered on this grasping for acknowledge their dependence upon recognition. The appeal to them (and all that God is, has, and does for them. us!) was to remind them that their "Arrogance" is the inflated opinion salvation depended entirely upon ac­ we get when we look only at our cepting God's: (1) calling (1:2-10); achievements, and not at the help God (2) preaching the message of the cross gives us so that we may accomplish of Christ (1:17-18, 21; 2:1-5); (3) gift our achievements! Arrogance con­ (4:4-7); (4) forgiveness (5:9-13; 6:1- sumes the minds of: children who do 11, 15-20); (5) overcoming tempta­ not appreciate what their parents have tions (10:1-14); (6) created individual provided them; politicians who think sexual identity (11:2-16); (7) miracu­ they, and not God, have sole control lous spiritual gifts (12:1-11); (8) res­ over wealth, lands and citizens; and urrection of Jesus (15:1-20). religious leaders who think that reli­ All the way through the epistle, gions which appeal to carnal minds Paul reminds us that we would be and worldly interests, can spiritually nothing, have nothing, hope for noth­ elevate anyone! ing, if it were not for God! Therefore Even our giving comes from what even "if I preach the gospel, I have God has given us: "But this I say: He nothing to boast of, for necessity is who sows sparingly will also reap laid upon me; yes, woe is me if I do sparingly, and he who sows bountiful­ not preach the gospel" (1 Corinthians ly will also reap bountifully. So let 9: 16). Paul even emphasized: "But by each one give as he purposes in his the grace of God I am what I am" (1 heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; Corinthians 15:10). for God loves a cheerful giver. And

Gospel Gleaner 111 God is able to make all grace abound been crucified to me, and I to the toward you, that you, always having world. For in Christ Jess neither cir­ all sufficiency in all things, may have cumcision nor uncircumcision avails an abundance for every good work. anything, but a new creation" (Gala­ As it is written: 'He has dispersed tians 6:12-15). abroad, He has given to the poor; His Anyone who imposes unauthorized righteousness endures forever.' [from "laws" on a Christian may have Psalm 112:9] Now may He who sup­ "bragging rights" as if they have con­ plies seed to the sower, and bread for trol over that Christian, but what they food, supply and multiply the seed have done is really "wrong.'' A Chris­ you have sown and increase the fruits tian must "boast" that only "the cross of your righteousness, while you are of our Lord Jesus Christ" has made enriched in everything for all liberali­ the difference in his, or her, life. "God ty, which causes thanksgiving through forbid" (may it never be so!) that we us to God" (2 Corinthians 9:6-11). would "brag" about what we have Our jobs simply provide us a done, but, rather, what God has done means to do more than just support for, and with, us. ourselves. "Let him who stole steal no We must conclude with Paul, that longer, but rather let him labor, work­ "I have been crucified with Christ; it ing with his hands what is good, that is no longer I who live, but Christ he may have something to give him lives in me; and the life which I now who has need" (Ephesians 4:28). Tru­ live in the flesh I live by faith in the ly, we must "remember the words of Son of God, who loved me and gave the Lord Jesus, that He said, 'It is Himself for me" (Galatians 2:20). more blessed to give than to receive"' (Acts 20:35). The "message of the cross" in­ cludes the resurrected Jesus' instruc­ Knowing that we must turn our­ tion to "every creature. He who be­ selves over to Jesus Christ, maybe we lieves and is baptized will be saved; can now understand what Paul wrote: but he who does not believe will be "As many as desire to make a good condemned" (Mark 16: 16). showing in the flesh, these would compel you to be circumcised, only Anyone who imposes doctrines that they may not suffer persecution and practices that God never author­ for the cross of Christ. For not even ized in His New Testament is "boast­ those who are circumcised keep the ing in your flesh," and that is very law, but they desire to have you cir­ wrong! God promises no salvation cumcised that they may boast in your without faith and before baptism. "But flesh. But God forbid that I should 'he who glories, let him glory in the boast except in the cross of our Lord LORD.' For not he who commends Jesus Christ, by whom the world has himself is approved, but whom the 12 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r Lord commends" (2 Corinthians Scriptures to emphasize the thief on 10:17-18). the cross instead of "The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the Humanly-devised doctrines and world" (John 1:29) cannot, and have practices, such as teaching that sinners never, saved anyone, for they boast in are saved by a prayer, or twisting the flesh.

The wav of the Cross Leads Home

Jimmy Clark

The song "The Way of the Cross (John 14:6). A study of the topic of Leads Home" begins with the words the cross is vital to a home in heaven. "I must needs go home by the way of Consequently, one must see that there the cross: There's no other way but are two crosses that lead home. this; I shall ne'er get sight of the gates The first cross that leads home is of light Ifthe way of the cross I miss." the one Jesus bore for the sins of the Two passages that are cited with world. The sacrifice of Christ on the this song are Jesus' words to the one cross provided the atonement for the who wanted to know what he must do world to have access to God. Sin to inherit eternal life. "Then Jesus brought separation from God. Isaiah beholding him loved him, and said wrote, "Behold, the Lord's hand is not unto him, One thing thou lackest: go shortened, that it cannot save; neither thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: But and give to the poor, and thou shalt your iniquities have separated be­ have treasure in heaven: and come, tween you and your God, and your take up the cross, and follow me" sins have hid his face from you, that (Mark 10:21). he will not hear" (Isa. 59: 1-2). The other passage is Peter's words James wrote concerning sin, "But to the Sanhedrin, where was stated, every man is tempted, when he is "Neither is there salvation in any oth­ drawn away of his own lust, and en­ er: for there is none other name under ticed. Then when lust hath conceived, heaven given among men, whereby it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it we must be saved" (Acts 4: 12). is finished, bringeth forth death" (James 1: 14-15). Jesus explicitly said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man Someone had to take the place of cometh unto the Father, but by me" those who sinned that life might be

Gospel Gleaner 113 possible. Isaiah thus stated, "All we I protest by your reJmcmg which I like sheep have gone astray; we have have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die turned every one to his own way; and daily" (1 Cor. 15:30-31). Paul wrote the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of the motivating power of the cross of us all" (lsa. 53:6). and the love that was exemplified from it, "For the love of Christ con­ Paul wrote, "To wit, that God was straineth us; because we thus judge, in Christ, reconciling the world unto that if one died for all, then were all himself, not imputing their trespasses dead: And that he died for all, that unto them; and hath committed unto they which live should not henceforth us the word of reconciliation .... For live unto themselves, but unto him he hath made him to be sin for us, which died for them, and rose again" who knew no sin; that we might be (2 Cor. 5:14-15). made the righteousness of God in him" (2 Cor. 5:19, 21). Seeing that the cross of Christ mo­ tivates the child of God to die unto sin The rule of law demanded that the and to live unto the Lord, he then be­ penalty for sin be executed. Christ comes the model for life. Obedience having no sin and being both God and is modeled after him. "Though he man provides the needed substitute for were a Son, yet learned he obedience sinful man. by the things which he suffered; And However, the cross of Christ is not being made perfect, he became the the only cross to bear to go home to author of eternal salvation unto all heaven. Jesus explicitly said to his them that obey him" (Heb. 5:8-9). disciples, "If any man will come after He is the model of humble service. me, let him deny himself, and take up "Let this mind be in you, which was his cross, and follow me" (Matt. also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the 16:24). Luke's account gives further form of God, thought it not robbery to details of this exhortation, where it is be equal with God: But made himself written, "If any man will come after of no reputation, and took upon him me, let him deny himself, and take up the form of a servant, and was made his cross daily, and follow me. For in the likeness of men: And being whosoever will save his life shall lose found in fashion as a man, he hum­ it: but whosoever will lose his life for bled himself, and became obedient my sake, the same shall save it" (Luke unto death, even the death of the 9:23-24). cross" (Phil. 2:5-8). Taking up one's cross daily in­ Out of this comes the conclusion volves the constant sacrifice of life in ' "Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have order to please God. Paul stated of his always obeyed, not as in my presence life in view of the resurrection, "And only, but now much more in my ab- why stand we in jeopardy every hour? 14 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r sence, work out your own salvation be wearied and faint in your minds" with fear and trembling" (Phil. 2: 12). (Heb. 12:2-3). The very model of perseverance is Jesus truly said that the way to life in Christ. "Looking unto Jesus the involved a gate that was "strait" and a author and finisher of our faith; who way that was "narrow" with "few for the joy that was set before him there be that find it" (Matt. 7:14). endured the cross, despising the Nevertheless, any suffering or afflic­ shame, and is set downs at the right tion as a Christian "worketh for us a hand of the throne of God. For con­ far more exceeding and eternal weight sider him that endured such contradic­ of glory" (2 Cor. 4: 17). tion of sinners against himself, lest ye

BE CONVERTED

Johnny Trail

Conversion is defined as "an expe­ say that there is a "revolution" in his rience associated with the definite and life when he is converted to Christ. decisive adoption of a religion." (Mir­ While true conversion is crucial to iam-Webster) Conversion was men­ salvation, one should never seek to tioned by Jesus at various points dur­ downplay the importance of bap­ ing His earthly ministry. In Matthew tism. Most people in protestant de­ 18:3 Jesus said, " ... Verily I say unto nominationalism tend to do this very you, except ye be converted, and be­ thing, and faithful members of the come as little children, ye shall not Lord's body are found defending the enter into the kingdom of heav­ very thing taught in God's en." What does it mean to "be con­ word. Baptism remits sin (Acts verted" to the extent of one becoming 2:38). Baptism saves a person (1 Pe­ like a little child? ter 3:21). Baptism washes sins away The Greek word used for convert­ and is the means by which one "calls ed in Matthew 18:3 is crtptq>ro upon the name of the Lord" (Acts (strephO) The word means to tum 22:16). quite around or reverse (literally or These things having been said, we figuratively): to convert, turn (again, have some people in the Lord's body back again, self, self about). The per­ who have merely gotten wet and have son who is converted turns himself not been converted to New Testament around morally speaking. One might Christianity. There is more to living a godly life than just being bap-

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 15 tized. Some are under the assumption Christian responsibility. No person that all they had to do was be baptized was ever complimented by an inspired without any expectation of living the writer for church attendance. They life of a servant. were complemented for being a fellow laborer in Christ. For being a worker The fact of the matter is that in the church, Paul had the highest scripture is replete with passages that regard and praise. teach the necessity of conver­ sion. Acts 28:27 says, "For the heart Peter summed up the major re­ of this people is waxed gross, and sponsibility of all Christians. 1 Peter their ears are dull of hearing, and their 2:9 says, "But ye are a chosen genera­ eyes have they closed; lest they tion, a royal priesthood, an holy na­ should see with their eyes, and hear tion, a peculiar people; that ye should with their ears, and understand with shew forth the praises of him who their heart, and should be converted, hath called you out of darkness into and I should heal them." These words his marvelous light." Those in Christ are spoken to the Jews who have been have been chosen by God to make given audience to Paul upon his arri­ intercession on behalf of Christ. That val to Rome. Some of the Israelites is, we entreat others to become chil­ who heard Paul believed him, and dren of God by the proclamation of some did not. These unbelievers are the gospel. This cannot be done by the ones who have a heart that is dull, people who feel no responsibility to­ ears that are hard of hearing, and eyes wards the lost or no urgency to teach that are closed. individuals who are lost and dying in sin. Conversely, those converted to Christ are people who have opened Moreover, conversion means that a their hearts, opened their eyes, and person is very sensitive to the power open their ears to the proclamation of of sin. Unlike some of the brethren at God's message. Those truly convert­ Rome, we need to avoid sin. Romans ed are the ones who respond to the 6:1-2 says, "What shall we say then? message of the New Testament by Shall we continue in sin, that grace taking action. One must be a hearer may abound? God forbid. How shall and doer of the word to truly be a dis­ we, that are dead to sin, live any long­ ciple of Jesus. James 1:22 says, "But er therein?" Some people who are be doers of the word, and not hearers baptized show no real change in their only, deceiving yourselves." lives after they arise from the waters of baptism. There needs to be a revo­ In all honesty, we have too many lution in the lives of people who people who are merely warming a would desire to live a Christian pew. While church attendance is im­ life. Paul points this out in the very portant, it is not at the pinnacle of same chapter in verses eleven and 16 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r twelve. "Likewise reckon ye also Evidently, the Corinthian church yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, understood that conversion meant but alive unto God through Jesus giving up former sinful practic­ Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore es. Paul lists every sin imaginable reign in your mortal body, that ye when he discusses their former man­ should obey it in the lusts thereof." ner of living. 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 says, "Know ye not that the unright­ This might best be underscored by eous shall not inherit the kingdom of those who obeyed the gospel at Ephe­ God? Be not deceived: neither forni­ sus. Notice how they responded to cators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, the message of Jesus. Acts 19:19-20 nor effeminate, nor abusers of them­ says, "Many of them also which used selves with mankind, nor thieves, nor curious arts brought their books to­ covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, gether, and burned them before all nor extortioners, shall inherit the men: and they counted the price of kingdom of God. And such were them, and found it fifty thousand some of you: but ye are washed, but pieces of silver. So mightily grew the ye are sanctified, but ye are justified word of God and prevailed." These in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by newly converted Christians under­ the Spirit of our God." Instead of stood that their "curious arts" where arguing for the "right" to continue not consistent with their profession of sinful behaviors, these brethren for­ Christ, and they burned books valued sook their sins, repented, were at fifty thousand pieces of sil­ "washed," and lived a sanctified ver! What did you give up to follow life. Wouldn't it be good if people in Jesus? our age responded to the gospel in the In further consideration of these same way? verses in Acts nineteen, one might We must be converted to have consider verse twenty in particu­ eternal life. Acts 3:19 says, "Repent lar. "So mightily grew the word of ye therefore, and be converted, that God and prevailed." The word of your sins may be blotted out, when God had a leavening effect upon all the times of refreshing shall come those who witnessed the conversion of from the presence of the these soothsayers, sorcerers, and char­ Lord." God's people should seek to latans. These people burned the be as innocent and as blameless as a sources of their unsavory financial little child. Matthew 18:3 " ... Verily I gain. From these passages, one learns say unto you, except ye be converted, that the word of God is powerful and become as little children, ye shall when it falls into fertile ground. It has not enter into the kingdom of heaven." the ability to forever alter a person's life.

G o s p e I G I e a n e r 117 Why Do Liberals Stay among Us?

Hugh Fulford

If the church of Christ is just an­ the larger, more affluent congrega­ other denomination beset with as tions in various parts of the country. many sins, shortcomings, failures, and They have succeeded in capturing uninformed views as the left­ several of the once faithful Christian ist/progressive members of it say that universities. They will not be satis­ it is why do they not leave it for "a fied until they have shipwrecked the different denomination," a better and faith (1 Timothy 1:18-20) of as many more perfect one, or at least one that other Christians, congregations, and is more in keeping with their views? colleges as they can.

If loyal churches of Christ are be­ They stay because they see them­ hind the times because they refuse to selves as the "saviors" of the church adopt instrumental music in the wor­ of Christ. They see the church as nar­ ship of the church, utilize women row and sectarian and they are out to preachers, admit to being a denomina­ reform it. Some of the preachers tion, or accept as members those who among them can write of nothing oth­ have not been immersed for the re­ er than why the churches ought to mission of sins (or some biblically have instrumental music and women synonymous reason), etc. why do the preachers, why they should stop in­ leftists stay? sisting on the necessity of immersion for the remission of sins, and why If the church is out of step on mat­ they should acknowledge that the ters pertaining to race (though I can­ church is a denomination! They are not name a single congregation any­ ashamed of the church in its alle­ where that does not welcome people giance to the simple New Testament of all races, with many of them having way, and they desire to change it to a racially integrated leadership of el­ make it more in step with the culture ders, deacons, and ministers), is out of around it and the denominational step with reference to the Old Testa­ churches that men have established. ment and its relation to the New Tes­ tament, is out of step concerning mar­ They contend that all who believe riage, divorce, and remarriage, is out in Jesus, regardless of whether they of step regarding sexual identity and have been immersed for the remission same-sex relationships, etc. why do of sin and regardless of doctrinal dif­ the progressives stay? ferences and worship practice differ­ ences, are members of the one body of I will tell you why they stay. They Christ. They seem to think that no have succeeded in capturing some of false doctrines or practices have arisen 18 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r since the close of the New Testament, which loyal Christians are to earnestly and that the New Testament in its first contend (Ephesians 4:5; Philippians century context does not address any 1:27-28; Jude 3). As one highly re­ false doctrines or unscriptural practic­ spected leader among God's faithful es that may possibly exist today. They people said to me not long ago (speak­ seem to think that the Bible should not ing of the liberals among us), "Their be used to address and refute any doc­ 'faith' is a different faith than ours." trine or practice that may be consid­ They parade as churches of Christ but ered contrary to the Scriptures. they are not churches of the New Tes­ tament faith and order. The sooner One of their number, in responding the rest of us recognize them for who to another who was giving book, they are the better off we will be (see chapter, and verse in refutation of a Romans 16:17-18). Most informed particular doctrine, condescendingly brethren have already done so. asked, "Are you reading the Bible or just quoting verses?" They do not like To the credit and integrity of pro­ book, chapter, and verse preaching, gressives and liberals of the past, they and often charge those who do that went to the digressive Christian kind of preaching with ''proof­ Church or left to join the Disciples of texting." They think that they and they Christ, the Methodists, the Episcopa­ alone know how to correctly read the lians, the Catholics, or various other Bible! denominational churches. I have a whole lot more respect for them than I Their view of how the Scriptures do for the lack of integrity characteris­ are to be handled allows for wide doc­ tic of those who now stay, "worm" trinal differences and beliefs and for their way into congregations, gather­ great variety of worship practices. ings of preachers, Bible departments They "read" the Bible in such a way of Christian schools and universities, as for all who profess faith in Christ and other venues, and corrupt the faith (regardless of doctrine and practice) to of others, "beguiling unstable souls" be acceptable to God, and foolishly (2 Peter 2:14). The liberals and left­ assert that all who believe in Jesus are ists in the church today do not have already united in Him, in spite of their the kind of integrity that will permit many obvious differences! And these them to leave. are only some of the more "visible" issues that the progressives are cham­ pioning. Their doctrine is contrary to the sound doctrine of the New Testament. The "faith" they espouse is not the "one faith" of the New Testament for

G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 19 Keeping Jesus' Commandments

Owen Olbricht Giving commandments is Jesus's student and the girl was in high part; our part is keeping them. We are school. They were tightly embraced not asked to agree with them. We are and were kissing while standing on asked to teach and obey them. When one of the downtown street comers. I Jesus sent the apostles to preach to all confronted them. "I cannot believe the world, He told them to teach those you were kissing in the open public on they baptized "to observe all I have a street comer." He replied, "This is commanded you" (Matthew 28:20). one of my weaknesses. I do well with Jesus' commandments have been all the other commandments." written for us by inspired men, like He seemed to think it was all right Paul, who wrote, "the commandments to violate one commandment because I write to you are the commandments he kept all the others. It does not work of the Lord" (1 Corinthians 14:37). that way. Paul admonished, "Let us John concluded the book of Revela­ cleanse ourselves from all defilement tion by writing, "blessed are those of flesh and spirit" (2 Corinthians who do His commandments" (Revela­ 7:1). James wrote, "For whosoever tion 22: 14 ). Instead of blessing us, shall keep the whole law, and yet Jesus will take vengeance on us if we stumble in one point, He is guilty of do not obey (2 Thessalonians 1:8). all" (James 2: 10). Obey AU Commandments Keep All Included Obeying the commandments in Each Commandment means keeping "all" of them (Mat­ Keeping a commandment requires thew 28:20). We are not to pick and observing all of it,· and not just keep­ choose which commandments we will ing a part of it. This is what was ex­ obey. Paul wrote, "You who abhor pected of Saul in response to God's idols, do you rob temples" (Romans instruction. 2:22). Just because a person hated idols did not give him the right to rob Samuel gave Saul God's word, temples. Obeying the commandments " ... utterly destroy all that they (the we like does not give us license to fail Amalekites) have, and do not spare to observe the ones we do not like. them" (1 Samuel 15:3). Saul de­ stroyed all but the king, and let the As I was leaving an area where we people keep the best of the Amalek­ knocked doors in a campaign, I drove ite's belongings. Saul told Samuel that to pick up a couple of workers. One he had "obeyed the voice of the Lord" was a young man who was a college (1 Samuel 15:26). 20 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r Saul and the people had obeyed going beyond what He requires, most of what God commanded, but which is written in Scripture (1 Corin­ they failed to keep all. Samuel told thians 4:6), and doing what He has not him, " ... you have rejected the word of commanded. the Lord" (I Samuel 15:23). Obey What We Can Keeping a part of God's com­ God requires of us to do what we mandment is not enough. Keeping are able to do, and not what we are only a part is ''rebellion (I Samuel unable to do. This principle governs 15:23). Are we rebelling when we everything that is required of us. Paul attend some of the gatherings of the wrote about our giving, " .. .it is ac­ church, and not all of them (Heb. cepted according to what one has, and 10:25)? Is keeping some but not all not according to what at he does not the traffic laws rebellion (1 Pet. 2: 13)? have" (2 Corinthians 8:12). This prin­ What else do members do that is only ciple can be found in the parable of a part of a commandment? the talents; each man had to give ac­ Not Add to Commandments count for the money given to him (Mathew 25:14-30). Each of them Not only are we not to diminish was expected to serve with what he what is included in a commandment, was given to him according to his but we are not to add to what is in­ ability to use it. God does not require cluded. Jesus told the apostles to teach of us what we do not have and what those they baptized " ... to observe all I we are unable to do. have commanded you" (Matthew 28:20). "Observe alf' is inclusive and A person is not expected to give if restrictive. If a person has added to he has no money, or to attend if he is what Jesus commanded and observing in the hospital and cannot be released. it, he is not keeping what Jesus com­ If someone cannot talk to confess his manded, but is observing what Jesus faith in Jesus, a hand sign or nod of has not commanded. the head can be his confession instead of a confession with his mouth (Ro­ Moses did this. When God told mans 10:10). God expects us to obey him to speak to the rock, he added to to the fullest with what we have and what God told him to do, and struck with what we can do. We are not held the rock two times, thus he did some­ accountable for what we do not have thing God had not commanded, and and what we cannot do. he did not give God credit for the wa­ ter that came from the rock. Because Conclusion of this God did not permit him to en­ We are required to observe all Je­ ter the promised land (Num. 20:7-12). sus commanded in all areas where Adding to what God said may seem Jesus has given commandments. It is like a small thing, but with God it is G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 21 wrong for us to add to or take away add or take anything away from it, we from what He has commanded (Deut. contaminate it. God forbid that we 4:2), for His every word is pure (Pro. should teach and practice a contami­ 30:5, 6). Just as with pure water, if we nated Word of God.

Shepherd Leadership in the Scriptures Andy Erwin In the Old Testament, the verb of tending to injuries. Without a caring "shepherd" (raah) is translated to pas­ shepherd, sheep would not have lived ture, tend, feed, lead, and keep the long in the ancient world. flock. 1 The verb can also represent the Using the shepherd as a metaphor, entire job of a shepherd. A "shepherd" the shepherd leader concept in the Old is simply a feeder or tender of sheep. 2 Testament begins with God. He is In the New Testament, the verbs depicted as a Shepherd to Israel (Gen. bosko and poimaino are translated to 48:15; Gen. 49:24).5 Throughout the feed, herd, and to tend as a shepherd. 3 Old Testament, God is shown leading Again, the entirety of the work can be His flock (Ps. 31 :3). He leads out of represented in this word. Accordingly, love (Exod. 15:13),6 and goes before a "shepherd" (poimen) is likewise one them (Ps. 68:7), driving out the enemy who herds or tends sheep.4 to make room for His own flock (Ps. 78:52-55). Shepherds were providers, guides, protectors, and constant companions The Shepherd Psalm (Ps. 23) de­ of sheep. Sheep were totally depend­ picts God as a personal Shepherd (v.1) ent on shepherds for protection, rescu­ who leads His sheep to pastures and ing, grazing, watering, shelter, and waters (v.2), while protecting them with His rod and staff (v.4), even re­ storing them to health (v.3). He also 1 William L. Holliday, A Concise He­ gathers His sheep (Isa. 56:8) and car­ brew and Aramaic Lexicon of the Old ries them in His bosom to safety (Isa. Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1988), 342. 40:11; cf. Ps. 28:9). As Shepherd over 2 William Wilson, Wilson's Old Testa­ His flock, God is presented guiding ment Word Studies (Peabody, MA: Hen­ (Deut. 26:5-8; Ps. 77:20; 80:1), pro- drickson, 1993), 388. 3 Walter Bauer, A Greek English Lexi­ con of the New Testament and Other Early 5 For more Old Testament depictions of Christian Literature, edited by Fredrick God acting as a shepherd, see Ps. 79:13; William Danker, third edition (Chicago: Ps. 80:1; Ps. 95:7; Ps. 100:3; Isa. 63:11; Chicago University Press, 2000), 842. Mic. 7:14; Zech. 9:16. 4 Walter Bauer, A Greek English Lexi­ 6 On one occasion God is viewed as con of the New Testament, 843. shepherding with anger (Ps. 74:1). 221Gospel Gleaner tecting (Ps. 78:52), saving (Ezek. who bore His name. 8 He sought to 34:22), leading (Jer. 50:19; Mic. 2:12, remove wicked influences from the 13), keeping careful watch over (Jer. flock He pastured (Zech.11 :7). The 31:10; Ps. 121:4), and caring for His goals, vision, and work of the flock flock (Zech. 10:3). were derived from His leadership, while being executed through their During Israel's Old Testament participation in His plan. God sought history God did not merely serve as a to encourage the spiritual transfor­ Shepherd who led by example. To the mation of His people through their contrary, He actively directed His participation and the mutual relation­ flock in paths of righteousness (Ps. ship developed through experienced 23:3). God served as leader, protector, faith and reward. and ruler for Israel. 7 God led accord­ ing to His core attributes of righteous­ God began the practice of utilizing ness, holiness, justice, and love. God's "under shepherds"9 to look after the reputation among the nations depend­ needs of His vulnerable flock (cf. 2 ed upon the standards of the people Sam. 23:3-4).10 Moses and Aaron are depicted as shepherds over the flock (Ps. 77:20; Isa. 63:11). God did not want Israel to as sheep without a 7 In many ancient kingdoms the shep­ shepherd upon their deaths, and thus herd metaphor also symbolized a ruler's He appointed Joshua to shepherd relationship with his people. Rulers were leadership (Num. 27:16-21). The described as demonstrating their legitima­ cy to rule by their ability to "pasture" their Judges followed in this capacity (2 people. Hammurabi and many other rulers Sam. 7:7). David then served God and of ancient western Asia are called "shep­ His flock as a shepherd king (2 Sam. herd" or described as "pasturing" their 5:2; 1 Chron. 11:2; Ps. 78:70-72).n subjects. Cyrus of Persia is also depicted as God's shepherd who would drive the God's desire was to give His flock flock from their homeland (Isa. 44:28- 45:1; cf. Jer. 23:8). This metaphor is also shepherds after His own heart to feed used with regard to armies and their com­ them with knowledge and understand­ manders (1 Kings 22:17; Jer. 6:3). How­ ing (Jer. 3:15). Yet, contrasted against ever, no ruling king in Israel or Judah is known to have directly borne this title. For information pertaining to the use of the 8 Laniak, Shepherds after My Own shepherd metaphor in antiquity, see R. Heart, 111. Laird Harris, Gleason L. Archer, Jr., and 9 Laniak, Shepherds, 53. Bruce K. Waltke, Theological Wordbook 10 Laniak, Shepherds, 40. of the Old Testament (Chicago: Moody 11 Although is designated a shepherd by Publishers, 1980), 853; Timothy S. Lani­ God, no ruling king in Israel or Judah is ak, Shepherds after My Own Heart, 58- known to have officially borne this title 74; Gerhard Kittel, ed., Theological Dic­ from the people. Gerhard Kittel, ed., Theo­ tionary of the New Testament, trans. Geof­ logical Dictionary of the New Testament, frey W. Bromiley (Grand Rapids, MI: trans. Geoffrey W. Bromiley (Grand Rap­ Eerdmans, 1984), 6: 487-8. ids, MI: Eerdmans, 1984), 6: 487-8. G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 23 the faithful "under shepherds" provid­ ship. 12 The condition and growth of a ed by God were unfaithful leaders flock depends greatly on the care, (shepherds) who transgressed the law attentiveness, and skill of the shep­ of God (Jer. 2:8), and influenced the herd.13 Responsible shepherds would people to do likewise (Jer. 10:21; know every member if their flocks in 12:10; 22:22; 23:1-2; 25:34-38; terms of their birth circumstances, 50:6-7). The most infamous recount­ history of health, eating habits, and ing of their wicked rule over God's other idiosyncrasies. 14 Yet, the result flock is found in Ezekiel 34: 1-10. of this failed leadership was a people "scattered because there was no shep­ One of the reasons why God need­ herd" (Ezek. 34:5). ed Ezekiel to serve as a watchman for His people was because the men who The Lord said, "My sheep were were supposed to be doing that job scattered over the whole face of the were negligent. The Lord addressed earth, with no one to seek or search this issue by asking, "Should not for them" (Ezek. 34:6). The shep­ shepherds feed the flock?" (Ezekiel herds of His people were negligent, 34:2) It was not because there was a irresponsible, and careless with the shortage of food that the flock was not sacred work they had in overseeing being feed. The shepherds of the flock God's flock. were fat and clothed (v.3), and were God unequivocally states: "I am feeding themselves (v.10). However, against the shepherds" (Ezek. 34:10). they were not true caretakers of the Due to the negligence of the false flock. As a result, the flock was scat­ shepherds of Israel, God would take tered as sheep without a shepherd (v. the matter into His hands to seek and 5; cf. Zech. 10:2). save the lost (Ezek. 34:11), to feed, The rulers behaved like owners water, and rest His flock (Ezek. 34:13 rather than hired servants. They be­ ff.), to bind the injured and strengthen came hirelings and thieves. The shep­ the weak, and to destroy the wicked herds of Israel were not concerned shepherds (Ezek. 34:16; cf. Zech. with strengthening the weak, minister­ 11:7). ing to the sick and broken, bringing The Old Testament prophets look back those who had been driven away, ahead to a time when God would res­ or seeking the lost (Ezek. 34:3-4). cue His flock from the nations to Instead of functioning as godly and which they were scattered (Ezek. faithful keepers of the flock, they 34:11 ff.), returning them to their drove away the flock by ruling them 1 homeland from captivity (lsa. 11:11; with force and harshness (Ezek. 34:4 ).

The health and multiplication of a 12 Laniak, 51. community was a sign of good leader- 13 Laniak, 53. 14 Laniak, 57. 241Gospel Gleaner Jer. 23:3; Mic. 5:3; Zech. 10:3 ff.). The Shepherd Servant would es­ Israel was in need of spiritual trans­ tablish a new covenant between God formation and God would pour out and Israel, ensuring the ultimate for­ upon them the "Spirit of grace and giveness of sin (Jer. 31:31-34; Ezek. supplication" (Zech. 12:10) corre­ 34:25; Ezek. 37:26), and establishing sponding to a fountain being opened peace between God and man (Mic. for sin and impurity (Zech. 13: 1). 15 5:5; Isa. 9:6 ff.). The Shepherd would Israel was in need of greater under­ eventually become King over all the standing and assurance of God's ca­ earth (Zech. 14:9), after first being pacity for forgiveness, to which the stricken by the people (Zech. 13:7), prophets speak with unanimity (lsa. and for the people (lsa. 53:4 ff.). 55:6--9; Jer. 31:34; Ezek. 36:25; The writers of the New Testament 37:23). make clear that the Shepherd to whom The Lord promised to establish one the prophets pointed was Jesus Christ. Shepherd over Israel (Mic. 5:4; Zech. Not only does Jesus check all the box­ 11:16). The Shepherd would be from es pertaining to the fulfillment of the line of David (lsa. 11:1 ff.; Jer. these prophecies, 16 He also exhibits 23:5; Ezek. 34:23; Ezek. 37:24; Zech the most admirable traits of a shep­ 12:1-13:1). herd leader in the image of the Father (see Heb. 1:3). While being the Lord's Servant (Ezek. 34:23), the Shepherd would Jesus was a constant companion to also be ''prince among them" (Ezek. the flock, especially the twelve disci­ 34:24). Israel would be one nation ples.17 He sought to find the lost sheep again, with one king (Jer. 23:5; Ezek. that had been scattered (Matt. 10:6; 37:22-24). The "Ruler" would be Matt. 15:24; Luke 19:10; cf. Jer. 23:4, born in Bethlehem, although He has 5; Ezek. 34:5; Zech. 10:2 ff.). He was existed from eternity (Mic. 5:2). a shepherd to sheep who had none (Matt. 2:6; Mark 6:34). He shepherd­ The Spirit of the Lord would be ed out of compassion (Matt. 9:36; upon Him and He would Shepherd Mark 6:34; cf. Ex. 15:13). He was a with wisdom and understanding, friend to His flock (John 15:13-15), counsel and strength, knowledge and the fear of the Lord, while judging in righteousness (lsa. 11:1-5; cf. Ezek. 16 For further reading about the fulfill­ 34:17). ment of Messianic prophecies see J. Bar­ ton Payne, Encyclopedia of Biblical Prophecy (New York: Harper and Row, 1973), 645--650. 17 So much was Jesus the constant 15 Richard Alan Fuhr, Jr., and Gary E. companion to His flock that Matthew Yates, The Message of the Twelve (Nash­ gives special notice of when He was not ville, 1N: B&H Academic, 2016), 292. among them (cf. Matt. 14:13, 23). Gospel Gleaner 125 which consisted also of publicans and between Jewish and Gentile brethren sinners (Matt. 11: 19). His goal as (Gal. 2:11-14). Shepherd is to lead the flock to Just as Jesus received the work of springs of the water of life where God shepherding from His Father, He will wipe every tear from their eyes handed over the task to Peter and the (Rev. 7:7), realizing that He would rest of the apostles. Peter then passed have to be stricken (cf. Zech. 13:7; along the function of shepherd leader lsa. 53:5, 8), and lay down His life for to elders in the churches. To ensure His sheep (John 10: 17), that they faithful nurturing, guidance, and pro­ might live (John 10:27-28). tection for the flock, the Lord gave Pursuant to the shepherd imagery qualifications and stipulations for of Christ over the flock is the imagery shepherd leaders in every congrega­ of under-shepherds to follow His ex­ tion (1 Tim. 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9). Just ample in caring for the church. Just as as Jesus was a constant companion to the Father did not want Israel to be the twelve, elders are to remain left as sheep without a shepherd upon among the flock (1 Thess. 5: 12; 1 Pet. the death of Moses (Num. 27:17), 5:2), caring for, encouraging, and Christ did not want the church to be guiding the church. Yet, the shep­ left without pastoral care upon His herd's ongoing challenge was teach­ ascension to His throne in heaven ing the flock to obey the Lord's com­ (Acts 20:28-29; cf. Jer. 23:4). mands. The first example to consider is A shepherd leader directs the flock Peter and the entrusted responsibility and helps the flock to navigate a faith­ to feed the sheep (John 21:15-17). ful course in the world, determining Peter's work of feeding centered upon direction for the flock, while follow­ teaching and preaching, or "the minis­ ing the lead of the Good Shepherd. try of the word" (Acts 6:4). While As shepherd leaders follow the exam­ tasked with feeding the flock and ple of Christ, the church follows them granted a measure of authority, the (1 Cor. 11:1; Reb. 13:7; 1 Pet. 5:3). apostles continued to view Christ as But, just as Christ did not lead by ex­ the Chief Shepherd and supreme ample only (cf. John 14:15; John Overseer of the church (1 Pet. 2:25; 1 15: 10), elders are not to lead only by Pet. 5:4; Reb. 13:20). The apostles example. The flock is commanded to recognized their work was to serve as obey and submit to those who are humble stewards of the flock and the watching over their souls (Reb. work entrusted to their care (1 Pet. 13:17). The elders have been entrust­ 4:10-11; 1 Cor. 4: 1, 6). Sometimes the ed with "charge" over the flock (I apostles were even required to shep­ Thess. 5: 12). If the shepherd leaders herd one another, as was the case with are faithful in communicating the Paul and Peter regarding fellowship word of God, the flock must obedient- 26 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r ly follow them as they follow Christ Christ. Shepherds must lead the flock (cf. Phil. 4:9). to an environment conducive to en­ couragement and edification, both The shepherd leader is a servant individually and collectively. In such leader who oversees the flock as a an environment spiritual growth will voluntary service to the flock (1 Pet. be achieved and numerical growth 5:2), hoping to protect the sheep from will occur (Eph. 4:11). The flock will harm. His interest is not in lording be safe and multiply. over the flock (1 Pet. 5:3), like the wicked shepherds from the prophets From Father to Son, Son to apos­ or from the ministry of Christ. He tles, apostles to elders, elders must serves because it is his desire to serve also encourage shepherd leadership and to teach those whom he leads to among the flock. There is a point to be servants as well. By serving the which every Christian is called to flock, the shepherd is imitating the provide pastoral care to one another, shepherd leadership of Christ (cf. which is borne out in the numerous Mark 10:43-45). one another passages of the New Tes­ tament. Shepherd leaders are active partic­ ipants in the ministry serving as mod­ The mutual edification of the body els of proper behavior and desires. 18 of Christ consists of love, encourage­ Such leaders are desirous to see their ment, forgiveness, fellowship, teach­ flock involved in the ministry and ing, and care. Each of these actions mission of Christ and to use their tal­ should be considered aspects of ents and abilities to fulfill their re­ healthy shepherd leadership. Various spective ministries and thereby bring relationships within the flock will also glory to God. require direction and guidance to come from one another (see Titus The desire to see the spiritual ma­ 2:1-8). turity and health of the flock realized prompts the development of relation­ Each Christian should desire to be ship, discipleship, and biblical educa­ a shepherd leader when the situation tion. Sheep become transformed as calls for it, looking unto the example they come to mimic the faith of the of the elders of the congregation, and shepherd. Through ongoing disciple­ ultimately Christ as the "Chief Shep­ ship and a constant state of spiritual herd and Overseer of our souls." mindedness, the sheep are trans­ formed and develop the mind of

18 Gregory E. Lamb, "Saint Peter as 'Sympresbyteros': Mimetic Desire, Disci­ pleship, and Education," Christian Educa­ tion Joumall5, no. 2 (2018): 203. G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 27 ~mem6ering Jl{ Pranf&

Andy Erwin

even allow AI out of school every Thursday to study Bible.

By the time he was 16, he was preaching regularly for the Bilbo & Roberts St. congregation in DeRidder, LA. The fulltime work enabled him to rent a house and marry his sweetheart, June Pearson of Tupelo, MS. He was 17 and she was 16. They were married (1939-20 19) 63 years! As a young lady, June dreamed of marrying a preacher, and Alfred L. "AI" Franks passed away being useful in the church. Anyone on Wednesday, October 16, 2019. He who knows her will say that she ful­ was born January 3, 1939 in Louisi­ filled this dream. ana. He will likely be remembered by brethren at large as the fine editor of Brother AI went on to preach for the Magnolia Messenger. He will be 70 years. He preached fulltime at such remembered by his surviving family places as Mayfield in Saltillo, MS, as a loving husband, father, grandfa­ where he was the congregation's first ther, and great-grandfather. At the fulltime preacher, beginning in Janu­ time of his death, he and June had ary 1957. He preached at Skyline in three Bible studies ongoing. One Tupelo, MS, Yazoo City (twice); study was with his granddaughter and Rolling Fork, Poplar Springs tn her husband. Clarksburg, TN, and South Hunting­ ton St. Church of Christ, Kosciusko A Preacher MS. " Brother AI ," as I called him, made Brother AI left Yazoo city to focus his first "Bible talk" when he was nine on his education at Harding's Gradu­ years old at his home congregation of ate School of Religion. He and Kelby Boxwood in Merryville, LA. The Smith drove to Memphis for classes in congregation gave weekly opportuni­ 1960-61. Brother AI then enrolled at ties for the young boys and men to Freed Hardeman College in 1964-65. speak. AI took advantage of the op­ His education is extremely unique as portunities that were provided and he took classes in graduate school began making talks almost every first. week. His school' s principal would 28 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r At South Huntington The Magnolia Messenger Brother AI will forever be linked In 1978, AI started the Magnolia with the South Huntington Street con­ Messenger. He thanked God every gregation in Kosciusko. He and June day that he was able to do this work. moved their family to Kosciusko in This paper currently has a circulation 1971. He preached for the congrega­ of over 31,000 readers. It is freely tion until 1978 and served as elder given to those who request it. AI paid twice. At the time of his death, he was for the paper by sending one request serving as an elder. letter each year at year's end.

Brother AI left fulltime work at The paper will continue to be South Huntington Street to help start printed. Those who love and support it churches in Forest, MS, Crystal should continue to do so now more Springs, MS, and Meridian, MS. His than ever. goal was to be a missionary in Missis­ sippi and to begin churches in coun­ Some Personal Observations ties without a church of Christ. To know AI Franks is to love him. A historic merger happened in He was a great encourager to his January of 2018 as the black and brethren and to all men. He encour­ white congregations came together in aged others to love and serve the Kosciusko. Our prayer is that God Lord. He inspired humility in others will continue to bless this union. by his humble nature. He was not one who liked to criticize. He looked for Magnolia Bible College and good in others and sought to help oth­ Magnolia Bible Institute ers realize their potential for good by AI was a supporter of Magnolia Bible serving God. One never had to ques­ College (1976-2009). He served on tion whether or notAl's heart was in the Board of Directors at the time of the right place. He was sincere and its closing. The property was deeded genuine. to the South Huntington church and one of brother Al's greatest concerns It saddens us when good men are was their stewardship of these facili­ removed from us. But, let us take ties. He was bothered by seeing these comfort to know that God remains to buildings not being used. strengthen and to bless His people. As a result, AI was instrumental in beginning the Magnolia Bible Insti­ tute in 2018. Evening classes meet throughout the year and the possibili­ ties for good are very exciting. MBI, like MBC, started with a dream.

Gospel Gleaner 129 What Held Jesus to the Cross? Matthew 27: 39-44 Introduction: 1. "If... " sounds like the Devil talking to Jesus. Matthew 4:3, 6 2. Jesus could have called in the angels. Matthew 26:53, 54 3. Why did Jesus not save himself? What held him to the cross? I. His Resignation to the Father's Will. A. "But how shall the scripture be fulfilled." Isaiah 53:7 B. His desire was to please the Father. Philippians 2:6-9 C. Let God's will be our will as well. Matthew 7:21-23 II. His Matchless Love for Mankind. A. Love, the nature of God. 1 John 4:8; Romans 5:8 B. Jesus, God in the Flesh. John 1:1, 14; Romans 8:35-39 C. Love was His nature as well. Galatians 2:20 ill. His Divine Hatred for Sin. A. God hates all sin. Proverbs 6:16-19 B. Every accountable person has the sin problem. Romans 3:23; 1 John 1:8; 5:19 C. The cross is the only answer for justification. IV. His Anticipation of Reunion with the Father. A. Jesus had a desire to go home. John 17:3-5 B. The joy enabled endurance. Hebrews 12:1, 2 C. Heaven is a place of rejoicing. Luke 15:5-7 V. Our Sins-Yours and Mine. A. He was sinless. 2 Corinthians 5:21; Hebrews 4:15 B. Without the cross is to be without hope. Ephesians 2:12-16 C. The cross shows us how ugly our sins really are. Conclusion: 1. Jesus could not save himself and be our savior as well! 2. We need to die as well to be raised with Him. Romans 6:1-6 -Mike Kiser 30IGospel Gleaner CJ?smem6ering ~ W. Comer James R. McGill

R. W. Comer (1860-1944) was the home was based were those born in the little town of Gamaliel in named in the New Testament: That Monroe County in central Kentucky, the residents would be (1) Christian just north of the Tennessee border. widows, (2) at least sixty years of age The village was named after the apos­ (1 Timothy 5:9,10) and who (3) had tle Paul's famous teacher mentioned no family members to care for them (1 in Acts 5:34 and Acts 22:3. Timothy 5:16). After finishing high school Comer Some exceptions were made. For attended Burritt College in Spencer, example, at least one elderly never­ Tennessee, a noted Christian college married Christian lady was accepted. east of Nashville. There was another lady, under age He next went into business, open­ sixty, with a special need, who was ing a store in Glasgow, Kentucky, taken in. The home for the aged was before spending some time as a travel­ just across from the church building. ling salesman in north-central Tennes­ It included a small auditorium for the see. ladies to assemble for worship. In addition, all the services of the Chapel The Move to Nashville A venue church were broadcast to the Then, at the beginning of the 20th home by means of a line across the Century, at age forty, he made the last street. In each lady's room there was move of his life, to Nashville, where a speaker that she could turn on if she he founded the immensely successful desired to tune in to the services at the Washington Manufacturing Company. church building. Ladies who were He specialized in the manufacture of physically able attended the Chapel work clothing. He had factories in Avenue worship regularly. Kentucky and Tennessee with a cen­ Comer held solid values, morally tral shipping house in Nashville. and doctrinally, in his personal life Comer was active in the Russell Street and in his preaching. One illustration church of Christ, located on the east he used is unforgettable. He said, side of downtown Nashville. He be­ "When I am walking downtown past a came one of the elders. movie theater, and I look into the In 1911, seeing the need for a con­ ticket window, what I see is not a gregation in the Chapel Avenue area, nicely dressed, well-groomed lady selling tickets. What I see is the devil farther out from downtown, he took the lead in buying a small building in himself!" that location, where they began meet­ The Comer Foundation ing. R. W. Comer prospered greatly in Not long afterward, he again led in business. He used his wealth to do all establishing the Chapel Avenue Home he could to save souls. He took care for the Aged. The principles on which never to advertise his giving. He de- G o s p e I G I e a n e r I 31 voted much of the last ten years of his in which these sermons were preached life to establish a foundation that than any other man, and whose devo­ would provide for gospel preachers in tion to the 'old paths' is ever a source need and destitute fields of endeavor of inspiration-to him, my friend and even after his death. benefactor, this volume is sincerely When he died, the many support dedicated." checks continued to go out in re­ Comer's Funeral sponse to needs in America and in At Comer's funeral it was said of foreign lands. That was done quietly. him: "His greatest concern was the I got a little insight into this good need to impress all with the necessity work since my daddy worked in of believing in Jesus Christ as God's Comer's Washington Manufacturing Son, repenting of their sins, confess­ Company post office from which the ing His name, and being buried in letters went out each month to so baptism for the remission of sins, and many places in need. then rising to walk in newness of Every December, R. W. Comer life." gave gifts to all his workers. One year, The editor of The Nashville Ban­ for example, he special-ordered 2,500 ner, Nashville's afternoon daily beautiful leather-bound Bibles to give newspaper, wrote: "A true Christian to his employees. Besides gifts of gentleman has passed this way, and in candy, shirts, etc., the workers all of­ passing left his stamp upon those ten received a gift book. The compa­ countless lives he touched. Because ny even acquired a printing facility for personal modesty was a major attrib­ this purpose. ute of Mr. R. W. Comer, he lived and One year they would give a vol­ served... without ostentation... He ume of sermons by Foy E. Wallace, was a follower of the Golden Rule in Jr. At another time it would be a vol­ business as in private life." ume of N. B. Hardeman sermons. N. B. Hardeman, speaking at R. W. One gift my father received there was Comer's funeral, thinking of the times a New Testament with his name en­ they had been together at Chapel A v­ graved in gold lettering. On the in­ enue, said of him: "I can never forget side front cover is this message: how he sat over there and took such "REMEMBER: The greatest thing in an active part in singing. I loved to all the world is the salvation offered to hear him lead the prayer which he man by God through Jesus Christ." always began, 'Our dear, loving heav­ N. B. Hardeman preached in five enly Father .... "' area-wide gospel meeting series in R. W. Comer died August 5, 1944. Nashville between 1922 and 1942. He was 84. All five volumes of sermons were printed. In Volume 4 Hardeman [Reprinted from March-April 2018 wrote this dedication: Gospel Gleaner] "To R. W. Comer ... who, probably, was more responsible for the meetings

32 I G o s p e I G I e a n e r The Gospel Gleaner

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