Taylor University Pillars at Taylor University
TUFW Alumni Publications Publications for TUFW and Predecessors
2-1-1942 The iB ble Vision Fort Wayne Bible Institute
Follow this and additional works at: https://pillars.taylor.edu/tufw-alumni-publications Part of the Higher Education Commons
Recommended Citation Fort Wayne Bible Institute, "The iB ble Vision" (1942). TUFW Alumni Publications. 178. https://pillars.taylor.edu/tufw-alumni-publications/178
This Book is brought to you for free and open access by the Publications for TUFW and Predecessors at Pillars at Taylor University. It has been accepted for inclusion in TUFW Alumni Publications by an authorized administrator of Pillars at Taylor University. For more information, please contact [email protected]. mm ^Mwn
FEBRUARY 19 4 2
The Abuse of Religious Liberty A Symposium: The Church and War Our Attitude as Non-Resistant Christians
A Christian's Duty in National Crisis A Statement of Conviction and Duty War's Challenge to the Church Chapel Quotes
How To Live in Apostate Christendom A Sound Mind
Herbert Sumner Miller
In the World Today
Published at Berne, Ind. By The Fort Wayne Bible Institute, Fort Way: THE BIBLE VISION
A Bimonthly Journal Reflecting the Light i of the Bible on Us and Our Times
Volume VI February, 1942 Number 3
Published bimonthly at Berne, Ind., by THE FORT WAYNE BIBLE INSTITUTE
S. A. WiTMER, Editor B. F. Leightner, Ass't Editor Bertha Leitner, Ass't. Editor Melvena Basinger, Editor of Fellowship Circle A. W. TozER, Contributing Editor Luella Miller, Circulation Manager Economy Printing Concern, Berne, Indiana, Publisher
Yearly Subscription, 50 Cents; Single Copy for Ten Cents.
Address all correspondence regarding subscriptions or subject-mat- ter to The Bible Vision, Berne, Ind., or to the Fort Wayne Bible Insti- tute, Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Entered as second class mail matter at the post office at Berne,
Indiana, under the Act of March 3, 1879.
"GO ON"
J. E. Ramseyer
To pray to God no breath is lost:
Pray on;—and breath shall last much longer.
To walk with God no strength is lost:
Walk on;—and you shall walk much farther.
To wait on God no time is lost:
Wait on;—and you shall grow much stronger.
(Isaiah 40:31.) 4 EDITORIALS 4^ ^The Hypodermic Of Hate
"And hope maketh not ashamed, because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holv Ghost, who is given unto us" (Rom. 5:5). How great is the love of God? Great enough to give "His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish." In the world today, many apparently hope who ought to be made ashamed, for it is their very passion that people perish. Those of us, at least, who find ourselves inadvertently in the conflict can guard our hearts against the hypodermic of hatred that the devil injects with the needle of war. Having on the whole armour of God, we can divert the darts of Satan, while we are loyal to our country and yet love our enemies with faith from Gcd the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.—B. L.
Remember Pearl Harbor All over the country this slogan has been taken up as a rallying f cry for a war of vengeance. But the longer it is blazoned from mastheads, the more of a boomerang it proves to be. As the awful truth sinks in, we recall not so much the treachery of the Japs as the unbelievable state of affairs on the Sunday morning following the usual Saturday night of "wine, women, and song." The memory of unpreparedness in Pearl Harbor will long be remembered. We are reminded of another surprise attack of long ago, when TEKEL was written across the wall of a bancjuet hall while enemies were entering an impregnable city: THOU ART WEIGHED IN THE BALANCES, AND FOUND WANTING, In the scale cf morality, nobility, high idealism, reverence, our nation today is weighed in the balances of divine judgment and found wanting. But before we blame the nation, let us as evangelical Christians take our full measure of responsibility. And before we blame the church as a whole, let us as ministers of the Gospel examine our- selves, for "like priests, like people." High-ranking army and navy officers have been cited for dereliction of duty; if a similar inquiry I 'were made of the moral breakdov/n in our tragic land, we wonder how many men in offices of the church might similarly be cited for dereliction of duty. In this connection readers are referred to a penetrating article in this number of the Bihle Vision by Rev. A. W. Tozer on "The Abuse of Religious Liberty." It will be followed in the next issue by a complementary article on "God-Anoi7ited Men.'' THE BIBLE VISION
The Abuse of Religious Liberty
By Rev. A. W. Tozer
Pastor, Christian and Missionary Alliance, Chicago, III.
There is scarcely a blessing in the vernacular. The farmer but may be turned into a curse. and the shopkeeper became the- The kindest gift of God may ologians in their own right, and be abused or perverted until it the freedom of the humblest be- reacts with deadly effect upon liever was established. its possessor. Three centuries ago our fa- Nowhere is this more clearly thers sought the wide shores of demonstrated than in the modern North America and planted a na- abuse of religious liberty. tion where they might exercise Four hundred years ago the this sacred right of religious Reformers appealed from the liberty and "worship God after tyranny of the Roman Church, the dictates of their own con- and asserted the right of the in- science." Happy were they to dividual to read and interpret have been spared the painful the Bible for himself. The priests sight of their descendants turn- of Rome had done what the ing their hard-won liberty into priests of Jerusalem had done license and abusing the freedom before them; they had "taken they had suffered to secure. away the key of knowledge," and Could they have foreseen the had stood in the way of those poor use we have made of the who were trying to enter the heritage they left us, they might kingdom. Not content with rob- have hesitated to preach the bing them of their spiritual her- right of the individual with such itage, they fleeced them of their fervor and abandon. temporal goods and usurped au- Today American Protestantism thority over their souls and presents a sorry spectacle. We bodies. have carried our independence Against this unwarranted to the last ridiculous extreme. usurpation the Reformers re- Fearful of losing our liberty we volted. Luther nailed his decla- have magnified the right of the ration of independence to the individual far and away beyond door of the church at Witten- any right ever granted him in, berg, and the sound of his ham- the New Testament. We have mer blows was heard in all held the strong wine of freedom Christendom. The Bible became to the lips of our people till their the possession of the common heads have grown dizzy. They people and was studied by them flout obedience, scorn authority THE BIBLE VISION and laugh at the old-fashioned him out, or failing that, they |word "loyalty." Our condition starve him out or boycott his closely parallels that of Israel services. The fear of this has in the times of the Judges when broken the spirit of many a it was said, "every man did that preacher and turned him into a which was right in his own smiling, ingratiating time server. e3^es." Thousands who would This has made him the least stare with big-eyed horror at respected, the most pitied, and political anarchy openly advo- the most pitiable person at cate spiritual anarchy, practice present extant. Before his hu- its unholy principles in their miliation was complete the liter- lives and think nothing of it. ary satirists used to pick him as The poet Wordsworth has a target for their lampoons, but spoken of "the weight of too the sight of his obsequious fawn- much liberty." This weight is ing in the face of public opin- crushing the life out of the ion has become so touching that Church in our day. Where there it has softened the sharp pen of is no authority there can be no even those heartless gentlemen. order or discipline, and where Consciously inferior, holding these are lacking there can be his precarious position through no such thing as stability. The the sufferance of the religious disgraceful spectacle of a body public, his situation is much the of Christians shattered into six same as that of an effete king in hundred broken fragments, as is a country run by a dictator. It the case with Protestantism, re- is said that the king of Italy, sults directly from the abuse of some time ago, accidentally^ drop- religious liberty. ped his handerkerchief. He in- This contempt for authority on stantly dived to recover it. "I've the part of the individual Chris- got to keep that," he said, with tian has brought about the dis- a smile. "It's the only thing in franchisement of the Protestant Italy I dare put my nose in any- pastor. He has been robbed of more." If there is anything in his prophetic character and re- the Church the Protestant pas- duced to the status of an ec- tor dare touch with real author- clesiastical mascot. He has his ity we do not know what it is. duties around the church, to be True he talks very bravely when sure, but so has the janitor, and he knows he voices the opinion they are both hired men, taking of the majority, and like Bry- orders from the same board. If ant's mosquito "he says an un- he pleases the people all is well. disputed thing in such a solemn If he does not please them they way." He may, in a bold mo- rise up and sovereignly kick ment, even dare to express an THE BIBLE VISION opinion of his own, but a frown orders from the laity. from the lay-dictatorship and he No serious minded person J quickly learns wisdom. would argue in favor of ecclesi- Be astonished, O heavens, and astical overlordship or try to be ashamed, O earth, to behold make a case for priestly domi- the flock going its own way, led nation. Those shepherds who by its own fancies, while the ruled the flock with iron hand, shepherd. Rev. Eager-to-please, but had no spiritual qualifica- trots meekly behind, tenderly ut- tions for the work nor heart for tering innocuous platitudes and the sheep, were denounced in courageously interpreting the withering terms by the Bible Word of Gcd to fit the whims of prophets. Domination by a the leading bellwethers. priestly cast is Nicolaitanism, and The subjection of the Protes- God said, "The deeds of the tant clergy has had the same ef- Nicolaitanes I also hate." No or- fect within the Church that the der of men can have, by birth, subjection of the ship's officers by training, or by education, the would have on board a trans- right to place of authority in the atlantic liner. It has placed the Church of the living God. "g Church at the mercy of those Between the unjustified rule tides and billow^s that sweep the of the priestly caste with its at- face of the deep. The wrecks tendant abuses, and the be- that strew our shores bear tragic wildered wandering of headless witness to an inverted and ab- Protestantism there is little to normal condition somewhere in choose. Both are unscriptural the economy of things. We be- and both are prolific of frightful lieve that condition to be the evils. The rock Scylla on one surrender of the clergy and the side and the whirlpool Charybdis consequent desuetude of author- on the other forced the ancient ity among those professing to sailor to steer a careful course. follow Christ. Letting these stand for the two True, there are still Church- great evils discussed above, is men bearing high sounding titles, there a clear channel between? but they are, for all that, mere- Or must we choose the rock or ly executives carrying cut the the whirlpool and take our policies determined for them by chances? It is in vain we fold d the sovereign people. Their real our hands and say, 'Teace, authority is so small that a think- peace." There can be no peace ing man can hardly suppress a till we have judged ourselves in smile when it is mentioned. He the light of God's Word and knows how long a church official humbly admitted our wrongs. would last, if he refused to take (Continued on page 21) THE BIBLE VISION 7 A Symposium ^ The Attitude of the Christian Church Toward War
Editor's Note: The following utterances by Christian groups and preachers were made after our nation entered World War II, and represent a cross-section of views on this critical question. We believe that even though they dfifer widely, they are all a sincere attempt to express the Christian position. The first is a statement from one of the historic peace groups, the Mennonites, which hold very strictly to non-participation in all war effort. The second represents the position at the opposite pole as held generally by Lutheran churches. It pledges an all-out effort in the prosecution of the war. The third and fourth are not committed to either of these positions as such; rather they are a courageour expression of the church's duty in this present crisis. OUR ATTITUDE AS NON-RESISTANT CHRISTIANS IN THE PRESENT SITUATION A Message to Mennonites and Other Non-Resistant Christians Adopted by the Mennonite Central Committee at Chicago, January 3, 1942
Our country which we love science, ability, and government- ^and cherish is at war, in a war al provision. We trust the lead- "which the President has told us ership of the church to guide us will be long and hard. As we in our activity and to prepare face this dreadful reality we are constructive service projects for keenly aware of the heavy bur- our participation and support, dens, grievous suffering, and particularly in the relief of hu- great sacrifices which such a man need and suffering at home war entails, and from which none and abroad, in ministry to local of us can escape even if we community needs, and in the would. As a part of the nation, upbuilding of the moral and sharing its lot of weal or woe, spiritual welfare of our country. we must help to bear its present We are conscious of the fact misfortune, and prepare to make that the human and material re- our contribution as Christians to sources of the nation are being the restoration of peace and the marshalled by our government reconstruction of the national in a total war effort and that welfare after the destruction of we shall be expected and asked, A war is past. possibly in some matters com- Our desire to contribute con- manded, to participate in it. In structively in the present crisis the light of our historic non-re- must find its expression in such sistant position, which is well- positive action as sincere Chris- known to our government and tians and loyal citizens can per- our fellow citizens by repeated form within the limits of con- testimonies in recent times and 8 THE BIBLE VISION has been maintained with devo- of conscience will be extended, tion for over four hundred years, This, we believe, will apply (1) f and which we hold as a deep to participation in war financing and sincere conviction of con- through the purchase of war or science based upon our under- defense bonds and savings standing of the Gospel of Christ stamps, (2) to employment in and the Word of God, we do not war or defense industries, and see how we can consistently (3) to participation in so-called participate in this national war Home Defense or Civilian De- efl^ort, much as we purpose in all fense activities. We shall con- other respects to be obedient, tinue to plead before our author- loyal, and productive citizens. ities for deference to sincere con- We are deeply grateful for the science in the practical appli- continued recognition of our cation to the non-resistant prin- religious conscience which is ciple in all these and similar contained in the Selective Serv- points as need may arise, re- ice and Training Act of 1940 membering that as yet in no one
(Burke-Wadsworth Bill) , and of the above matters has com- for the executive orders and pulsion been exercised or even i regulations issued by the Pres- proposed. ident and the Director of Selec- We in turn desire in this time tive Service under which this of crisis and need to contribute Act, as it applies to those con- to the national welfare to the scientiously opposed to partici- best of our abilitj^ and resources, pation in war in any form, has in labor, in finances, and in been so justly and considerately spiritual ministry. In all these administered. We remember things we would provide con- that the Act provides for com- structive alternative contribu- plete exemption from military tions, even as our non-resistant training and service, and that it men in civilian public service requires an equivalent non-mili- contribute work of national im- tary service, which has thus far portance to the country as an been given without pay and alternative to direct participa- which has been financed by the tion in war. church. If in this supreme de- The designated committees and mand for participation in the to- authorities of the various Men- ( tal national war effort our de- nonite branches, cooperating in mocracy has honored the re- the Mennonite Central Commit- ligious conscience to the extent tee, are at work on practical of total exemption, we are con- measures which are designed to fident that in all lesser demands aid in preparing our people to a similar freedom and protection meet the present crisis loyally THE BIBLE VISION 9
and conscientiously, and which from war and defense activities we trust will be satisfactory to of all kinds, I our government, to our fellow- (5) That we abstain from citizens who do not share our employment in war and defense conscience, and to ourselves, industries. These measures and plans will (6) That we doi not purchase be announced and put into ex- war and defense bonds and sav- ecution from time to time. ings stamps, but rather purchase Meanwhile we desire to appeal civilian government bonds and to our people on the following savings stamps as they are pro- points: vided. (1) That we remember our (7) That we pray for our official statements of times past rulers and those that are in au- on all matters relating to partici- thority, and for the speedy res- pation in war, and endeavor to toration of a righteous and just apply them consistently in prin- peace in the world. ciple and in practice in current (8) That we continue a quiet siutations. and peaceable life in all godli- (2) That we be generous and ness, abstaining from all appear- r sacrificial in support of wartime ance of evil, and commending the relief work and civilian public Gospel of peace and love by our service, as well as in all the regu- lives. lar church activities of missions, (9) That we endeavor to be education, etc. more faithful stewards of the (3) That profits resulting from manifold blessings which God war situations be consistently has given us. not used for personal benefit, (10) That we seek ever but for purposes such as listed deepening and widening expe- in (2) above. rience and expression of Chris- (4) That we remain aloof tian love to all men.
A CHRISTIAN'S DUTY IN A TIME OF NATIONAL CRISIS Resolution adopted by the congreg^ation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. Luke, Chicago, 111., as published by the Chicago Daily News, January 17. Whereas, God has visited also and the Confessions of our ^our land with the terrors of war Church condemn those whoi re- mand saddened our hearts by ex- fuse or neglect to honor and duly posing our sons en the battle obey those whom God has en- fronts to grave danger and pos- dowed with authority over them sible death in the defense of our in the family, the church, and the beloved country, and state, and Whereas, both the Word of God Whereas, our Lord and Master 10 THE BIBLE VISION
Jesus Christ specifically enjoins Therefore be it
"Render unto Caesar the things Resolved, that we, the mem- . * which are Caesar's, and unto bers of The Evangelical Luther- God the things which are God's/' an Church of Saint Luke, mind- (Saint Matthew 22:21) and ful of the many and apparent Whereas, the Apostles admon- blessings of God bestowed upon ish all men to obey the govern- our Church, qur Schools, and our ment, saying, "For this cause pay homes in this free land, humble ye tribute also, for they are God's ourselves under the mighty hand ministers, attending continually of our heavenly Father and upon this very thing. Render, acknowledge that by reason of therefore, to all their dues; trib- our manifold sins these heavy ute to whom tribute is due: cus- chastisements have come upon tom to whom custom: fear to us, and be it further whom fear: honor to whom hon- Resolved, that we engage every or." (Romans 13:6-7.) power and agency of our Church "Let every soul be subject to and School in behalf of the serv- principalities and powers, to obey ice of our beloved country in magistrates, to be ready to every this hour of trial, and be it good work." (Titus 3:1.) further ( "Submit yourself to every Resolved, that we include in all ordinance of man for the Lord's our prayers the rulers of our sake: whether it be to the King, nation, the President and Con- as supreme: or unto governors, gress of the United States: the as unto them that are sent by commanders of our armed forces him for the punishment of evil and all others who stand in our doers, and for the praise of them stead and for our sake, in places that do well," (I Peter 2: 13-14) of responsibility and danger, and and be it further Whereas, we are taught to pray Resolved, that we individually for them that are in authority by and collectively, by the help of St Paul in I Tim. 2:1-3 "I ex- God's Holy Spirit show forth to hort, therefore, that, first of all, the world, lost in sin, and dying supplications, prayers, interces- in despair, a genuine Christian sions and giving of thanks be example of faith and unremitting made for all men: for kings, and zeal, of prayerful watching and for all that are in authority, that service, until the will of our I we may lead a quiet and peace- heavenly Father for the world able life in all godliness and has been fully revealed and peace honesty. For this is good and has come once more to the acceptable in the sight of God, brokenhearted and war-weary our Saviour," world. — —
THE BIBLE VISION 11
A STATEMENT OF CONVICTION AND DUTY By Rev. W. O. Klopfenstein as reported in the Progress
Reporter of Momience, Illinois, Dec. 19, 1941. Contributed to the Bible Vision by Rev. Klopfenstein, Pastor of the Momence Baptist Church.
The following statement of in the name of the Church; it is conviction with respect to his my declared purpose rather, own position concerning the 3. To call upon our people to present war was presented by humble themselves under the Rev. Weldon O. Klopfenstein to mighty hand of God, so that we the official board of the First as a people may learn the les- Baptist Church last Sunday sons which He has designed to morning. The official board unan- teach us through this experience imously endorsed the pastor's of national discipline; position and on Sunday evening 4. To help our people to recommended this statement to maintain a proper sense of per- the congregation who, in turn, spective and proportion, and to gave it their endorsement. The keep our hearts free from evil statement follows: prejudice, bitterness, and ven- is funda- ( Recognizing that war geance toward all men, friend mentally evil and contrary to and foe alike; the spirit of our Lord Jesus Christ, yet admitting that there 5. To lead our people, God are exceptional circumstances helping me, to discover the re- sources of faith and grace and under which it is imperative in His eternal and human nature being what it is hope Word in Christian fellow- —to defend our country, our Spirit, and children, our homes, our schools, ship, so that we may rise to the and our churches against wicked challenge of the present emer- gency in the name of our Lord and violent assault, I wish to register the following sincere and His Church; convictions which will define my 6. To challenge our people to attitude and sense of duty as strengthen every department of your pastor during the present our local Church, so that we may war emergency: — minister intelligently, compas- 1. That I will not use, nor sionatelj^ and sacrificially dur-
^ consent to the use of, our pulpit ing this unfortunate period and for propaganda purposes; during the post-war period that will follow; 2. That while I shall loyally support our government in its 7. To urge our people to re- resistance to assault and aggres- spect the right of each individual sion, I cannot bless war as such to be true to his own sense of 12 THE BIBLE VISION
duty as he understands it, and at distinctive character as followers the same time, to be discreet in and servants of Christ, the speech and prayerful in all Prince of Peace. things; It is my desire so to conduct 8. Finally, to insist that as myself as a citizen that I shall individual believers and as a never find it necessary to apolo- Church we must maintain our gize as a Christian.
WAR'S CHALLENGE TO THE CHURCH IN AMERICA
Excerpts from a sermon delivered Sunday night, Dec. 21st, 1941, by Dr. Paul S. Rees, Pastor of the Covenant Tabernacle Church, Minneapolis, Minn., and pub- lished^ by permission.
Text: ''Every kingdom divided speak and act in the tragic situ- against itself is brought to deso- ation in which we find our- lation; and every city or house selves? divided against itself shall not I. Three Views stand/—-Matthew 12:25. My first answer to that ques- Beheving that this church has tion may seem like a discourag- a right to know where its pas- ing one. Our Christian forces, I tor stands, now that our country it must be acknowledged, are not is at war, I am constrained to set united on the issue of war it- aside this hour for the discus- self. At least three different sion of some issues that must views are clearly recognizable, give concern to all thoughtful The first is the view held by the and conscientious Christians. Let pacifists. The pacifist holds that me assure you at once that I all war is collective sin: it is a shall speak carefully and yet complete denial both of the frankly, with due regard both for teachings and the spirit of Je- my obligations as a citizen of sus. the country I love and my re- Pacifists are usually misrepre- sponsibility as a disciple of that sented, not to say caricatured, Christ Whom I love above all by those who disagree with other loves. This is no time for them. It is usually said, for ex- hot heads to rant in the ears of ample, that pacifism is the same our American people, least of all as "do nothingism." Intelligent . in the ears of our church people, and practical pacifists neither ' It is rather an hour when all of beheve that nor practice it. They us should seek to follow St. believe that they should work Paul and ''speak forth words of for the solving of problems and truth and soberness." the settling of disputes by non- Just how unitedly can we now violent means. They do not be- THE BIBLE VISION 13
lieve that all use of force is their country's course. They immoral and unChristian, for claim citizenship in the nation, I they give respect to the function the nation asks them to bear its of law and law enforcing agen- arms, and they regard it either cies, but they insist that there as their lawful duty or their is no fair comparison between a patriotic privilege to make war. police department and an army II. Point of Unity in war. A police officer arrests Now, having outlined our chief a criminal, but he doesn't burn differences, let me turn to a down a half dozen square blocks constructive message on what I of the city, or mow down two or believe should be points of unity three hundred women and chil- in the present crisis. dren in order to carry out a 1. We Christians SHOULD be specific duty. able to unite on the proposition A second view held by many that in this war the church must of our church people is that we continue to be the church — the should give a qualified support church of Christ universal—and to war, the qualification being not a recruiting station for that it must be a war of de- soldiers or a sounding board for fense. war news that anybody can get The sharp distinction that who reads the papers or listens many people make between a to the radio. war of defense and one of at- 2. We SHOULD be united in tack sounds like a clear and the spirit of tolerance toward simple distinction. In reality those within the church who may and in history it is a distinction differ from us on such issues as about which thoughtful people pacifism and force. can ask a lot of embarrassing It may be very human, and it questions. Be that as it may, it may sound very patriotic, but it is the distinction on which rests isn't very Christian for us pro- the decision of many earnest fessing disciples of Christ to be- church people toi support this come experts in name-calling. It government fully in the present is dead easy for us to get intoler- conflict. ant and ugly, dead easy for the A third attitude toward war is advocate of war to call his taken by those of our fellow pacifist brother a "traitor" or for church men who have never had the pacifists to call his non- any compunction of conscience pacifist brother a ''warmonger," about fighting so long as their and because it is so easy, we government asked for it. They need to pray earnestly for the feel no obligation to inquire into grace of restraint and good the rightness of wrongness of temper. I can assure you that 14 THE BIBLE VISION if we do SO', we shall all feel easy marks they were for the more comfortable and less hate-producing propaganda that ashamed when the fighting is flooded this country in World over. War I. They did more than fall 3. We SHOULD be able to for it, they helped to spread it. unite on the proposition that the One of them declared in fury: war system as such is unChris- ''I cannot pray for the Predatory tian and devilish — the denial Potsdam Gang, 'Father forgive of practically everything for them for they know not what which Christ stood. they do,' because that is not Remember this: the leaders in true. ... I hate the predatory the church, both in Britain and Potsdam Gang because it is a America, who are actively sup- robber, a murderer, a destroyer porting the war between the of homes, a pillager of churches, democracies and the dictator- a violator of women. I do well ships, are all conceding that war to hate it." as such is an evil and unChrist- 5. We SHOULD be united in like thing. They justify their the conviction that, if we must support of this war on the ground be caught in the toils of war, we that it is a necessary compromise shall witness against the un- with evil that good may come necessary evils that accompany out of it. it and shall work for the re- I say to you, my fellov/ church duction of those evils to a min- members and my fellow country- imum. men, if we must fight in another There is, for example, the out- war, in Christ's gentle name, let rageous traffic in vice that al- us not make fools of ourselves ways gets bold in times of war by glorifying war and engaging and the marshalling of war's in silly yells about it. If war manpower. Prostitution has was "hell" in Sherman's day, it been increasing so fast and ve- is ten thousand hells rolled up nereal diseases have been spread- into one in this day of dive ing so alarmingly, since the gov- bombers, panzer divisions and ernment began to build its army, other forms of mechanized that the Surgeon General of the butchery. United States has issued a strong 4. We church people SHOULD appeal for drastic action. be able to unite in the testimony Furthermore, there is the mat- that hatred of any people is sin- ter of regulating the liquor busi- ful—just as sinful in war times ness in connection with our men as in peace time. in service. The indifference It is with shame that many even of church people on this ministers yet alive recall the question^ as indeed on the whole THE BIBLE VISION 15
question of alcohol and public Mr. Tunney says it seems that morals, is a constant amazement I we Christian people should be ^ to me. Great Britain's Prime able to unite on calling for de- Minister in the first World War cency and good health in our na- said that Army Enemy No. 1 was tion and in our armed forces. alcohol. Contrary to the far 6. We church people SHOULD more temperate policy of the Ad- be able to unite on the propo- ministration of Woodrow Wilson sition that our major task in this in the former war, our govern- world remains unchanged: in ment seems quite content to have war or in peace it is our first its soldiers and sailors drenched and foremost business to preach with beer and booze. Christ. It is not the business of There are other items that our ministers to give their peo- come under the head of war's ple echoes of the political ora- accessory evils. The Church in tions that will fill the air, or England has been lifting its reproductions of the belligerent voice against the complete wip- outpourings of newspaper col- ing out of regard for the Lord's ummists. It is not their business day under the pretext of war to bother their patient people ^ necessity. We should not do less with personal opinions as to in America. If factories and how President Roosevelt and his other establishments must run military and naval chiefs should seven days a week, let every ef- run the war. It is not their busi- fort be made to arrange the ness to keep the people excited workers' schedule so as to give by unnecessary criticisms of the them one day in seven for rest. government. Even the men in service are But it is their business to call given this, except in case of spe- the people of this nation to the cial emergency or a battle in altars of repentance for our own progress. sins. It is their business to tell In the last war the church and them that all men, whether in its pastors and "Y" secretaries the Axis group or the democracy went along with all the rest in group, are under the judgment converting our men and, to some of Almighty God for the care- extent, our girls and women, in- less way in which they have
. to cigarette smokers. I hope tried to build their lives and that all of you will read the their institutions without Him. article that appears in the cur- It is their business to declare, rent issue of the Reader's Digest. unceasingly, that there is ''no It is entitled "Nicotine Knock other Name given under heaven Out, or the Slow Count," by Gene and among men whereby we Tunney. In the face of what must be saved." 16 THE BIBLE VISION
Listen to James, as Weymouth to proclaim and exemplify — no translates him: ''What causes less in war than in peace! wars and contentions among 7. The last point is one on you? Is it not the cravings that which not all church people will are ever at war within you for agree. It has, however, various pleasures? You covet the hearty support of a host of us in things and yet cannot get them; you commit murder; you have the body of Christ. It is that the only hope of an enduring passionate desires and yet can- peace lies in the coming not gain your end; you begin again of the Lord Jesus Christ and His to fight and make war. You reign of righteousness in have not because you do not the earth. The language of Scrip- pray; or you pray and yet do ture describing such a consum- not receive, because you pray mation is varied, but the fact is wrongly, your object being to clear to many of us: there is to waste what j^ou get on some be an "apocalypse," an unveiling pleasure or another." (James 4: of the Lord of judgment and the 1-3.) Is there any cure for this Christ of universal empire. wretched state of things? Yes, says James, as he quotes from Of Christ the Lord it has been Proverbs 3:34—''God sets him- prophesied that "he will not fail self against the haughty, but to nor be discouraged till he have the lowly he gives grace." It is set judgment in the earth." There this grace that the Church of our is our hope! And, as Paul puts crucified and living Lord is both it, "hope maketh not ashamed!"
»-<>-«^<>^^(><«^(>'^^(>-«H»'<>«^<>^^(>^H»-(>4B»'(>'^^<>'4 i Chapel Quotes
''The Christian ministry is based upon obedience to truth.'— -T, J. Bach.
jH
''The big thing in life is not position but service." —C. N. HOSTETTER. *
"If we take care of the abiding, God loill take care of the fruit-bearing.''—M. E. Jacobson. *
"Life is a destiny, a problem, a power, and a pur- suit."—William Hygema.
M>'«B»<>'«i»(>'^»^(>-^H»-(>-^»'(>'^»'<>-^»'<)«^(>-«*'<>'^*'<>'*'^* .
THE BIBLE VISION IV
How To Live In Apostate Christendom
An Exposition of the Epistle of Jude
By L. R. RlNGENBERG^ M.A.
The Epistle of Jude was writ- 3). That they "crept in" indi- ten to admonish the faithful cates that beneath their assumed Christians of an apostate Chris- identity with the church there tendom. It is addressed to those was counterfeit character which who are "beloved in the Father" did not make itself known at and "kept for" Jesus Christ (R. first. They professed trust in V. vs. 1, 24). The occasion cf the grace of God but at the same the letter was the fact that false time were lascivious. This proved Christians had crept into the that they had not received Je- church, were engaging in the sus Christ as Master and Lord love feasts (vs. 12, 13) , had but in reality were denying Him probably attained to some degree (v. 4) . They seem to have been of leadership (v. 16) , and con- idealists but their ideals did not stituted a peril to the faith of result in a right control of their true Christians (vs. 3, 4). The bodies (v. 8) . They had low concern of the book is that true regard for God and His minis- Christians should be preserved ters, desiring to be free from from apostasy, stumbling, and dominion (v. 8) . They passed fault, in view of being presented evil judgment in matters in to Jesus Christ at His return (v. which they had no understand- 24). ing, but they themselves lived on the level of beasts (v. 10). Characteristics of False complained, Professors They murmured, and were malignantly "mouthy" The false Christians of Jude's (vs. 15, 16). They exhibited day were antinomianists. They much show of favor to persons professed faith and identity with the saints, but their faith was from whom they supposed bene- not "the faith" of the saints (v. fit might be received (v. 16) .
18 THEBIBLEVISION
The character and destiny of will like stars which wander these spurious Christians is il- from their orbits through dark lustrated in Old Testament his- endless space forever (v. 13). tor}^ by the unbelieving murmur- These false Christians are ers in Israel whom God destroyed identified as a part of the rebel- in the wilderness (v. 5) ; by the lious host of sinners upon whom fallen angels who are destined the Lord and His saints will ul- to everlasting chains and dark- timately execute judgment (vs. ness in view of the judgment (v. 14, 15). Their activity in the
6) ; by Sodom and Gomorrah "last times" was foretold by the and neighboring cities who be- apostles of Christ (v. 18; I Tim. cause they forsook the laws of 4:1; II Tim. 3:1; II Peter 2:1; God were visited with the ven- 3:3). The special characteristics geance of eternal fire (v. 7) of these "last time" mockers is The religion of these false sensuality or worldliness, the Christians was like that of Cain, spirit of separation, and the unacceptable to God because sin absence of the Holy Spirit (v. "lay at the door"; it was like the 18, 19). religion of Balaam who was com- Jude's description makes it mitted to the profit motive; it clear that already in the apostolic was like that of the envious age Christendom was corrupt. Korah who was smitten with Church History reveals that cor- judgment for sedition against ruption has existed in every sub- divine authority and for self ex- sequent age. Within the institu- altation to the leadership of tion known as the church of God's people (v. 11). Christ there have been carried By participating in the Chris- on all of the sins known to hu- tian love feast in reckless glut- manity. And certainly in the tony they were like perilous un- modern church there is no seen rocks threatening to wreck abatement of the leaven of evil, fellowship (R. V. v. 13) . As There is perhaps no denomina- Christians their lives never pre- tion which does not have indi- cipitated in refreshing blessing cations that in it are the ele- upon others . . . they were like m:ents of corruption. Institutions light empty clouds. They were founded under the signal inspi- withered and fruitless Christians, ration of God seem destined to cut off from the source of nur- eventually include the spurious ture and life, and hence dead element. God does not cast (v. 12). They were destructive them away but uses them to the fihbusterers like the raging and limited extent that is possible, foaming sea waves. They were The time of separation must be out of the center of the Creator's left to God. He will in time THE BIBLE VISION 19
bind up the tares for judgment. fluences of the Spirit. The Holy The Exhortation of Jude Spirit I is thus ultimately the ' In keeping with the brevity of "keeper" of the true Christian. his letter Jude goes to the very- Thirdly, the true Christian's center of things in his counsel to love requires for its greatest the "beloved." The focal point warmth and fervency, the radi- of his admonition is in the main ant hope of the promised return clause of verse 21—^"Keep your- 0;f the Lord Jesus with His re- selves in the love of God." The demptive mercies (v. 21). To means by which this admonition "look" for Christ's coming is is to be fulfilled are found in the such an absorbing "look" that it three related participial clauses leads to a corresponding proper (vs. 20, 21). detachment from the world. On First, Christians are to build the other hand, when this vision themselves up in "the faith." is lost, many spiritual difficulties Love rests upon the basis of arise. The eyes and affections trust in God through Christ. then come to be fixed upon the "The faith" of Jude's text in- lesser values of earth. The love cludes primarily the doctrines of of the world comes to displace r Christ's incarnation, substitu- the love of God. tionary death. His resurrection, It is lamentable that in many and His provision of eternal life bodies of Christendom the re- with Himself for all who believe. turn of the Lord Jesus is seldom It includes, more fully, the whole mentioned. In such cases the revelation of God to the believ- invariable result is that neither ing soul. Study and meditation the historic Christ nor the medi- upon this revelation leads the atorial Christ are worshipped earnest soul to an altogether with true faith and devotion. It worthy One in whose love he is the look of faith for the future may trust and to whom his heart revealing of power and life in wholly responds. Christ Jesus that leads the soul Secondly, in order to be kept to purify itself from inordinate in the love of God, true Chris- attachments to the world. tians are to pray in the Holy What To Do About Evil in Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the Christendom .spirit of love. Prayer is not Just as Jesus in the Parable of 'merely the expression of human the Tares forbad the uprooting desires to God. It is rather the of tares, so in Jude's Epistle there expression of the desires of di- is an absence of any warrant for vine love. Praying in the Spirit attempting to purge Christen- is therefore possible as the soul dom by a process of judgment, is yielded to the beneficent in- {Continued on page 21) 20 THE BIBLE VISION A Sound Mind
By Rev, F. Lincicome, Gary, Indiana
^'For God hath not given us the through my body and my brain, spirit of fear; hut of power, and but my thoughts are never seen. of love, and of a sound mind'' (4) The mind is the most CON- (II Tim. 1:7). TROLLING part of man. "Out of (1) The mind is the most DIS- the abundance of the heart the TINCTIVE part of man. It is mouth speaketh.'' The ancestor mind that makes man and sets of every deed is a thought; what him apart from beasts. Man's is on the inside is very likely, body differs but little from that after a time, to appear on the of other higher species of ani- outside. mal creation. In fact, in some There are fatalities in thought respects animals have the ad- as well as in act; thinking and vantage; man cannot run as fast conduct are alike beset by dan- as a deer nor smell as acutely as ger; an error in thought must a dog, nor see as far as an eagle. logically be followed by an error It is mind and not body that in conduct, a fact to which we makes man unique and the give too little emphasis. greatest of all creation. We proceed as if thought and It is mind that gives him a ca- act were distinct entities, where- pacity for language and that en- as the two are inseparable,—fal- ables him to construct ideas and lacious thinking will ev^entuate in things. fallacious conduct. Not all (2) The mind is the most AC- thought comes to this conclusion, TIVE part of man. No one walks but it is unsafe in the last de- all of the time nor eats all of the gree to indulge in the hope that time, and yet during any mo- men may think as they will ment of consciousness the mind without detriment to their con- is at work,—thinking, remem- duct. This is allowed to be true bering, wishing, loving, hating, in the domain of morals, but that dreaming. If any part of man it is equally true in the domain that needs to be sound, it is his of non-ethical action, seems not ever-active mind. to be sufficiently considered. (3) The mind is the most HID- Heresy of thought can have but DEN part of m^an. People hear one result; loose reasoning will what we say, read what we think inevitably end in loose doing. and write. They see our actions "Sow a thought and reap an but cannot observe our thoughts. act, sow an act and reap a habit, With the X-ray they can look sow a habit and reap a character, THE BIBLE VISION 21
SOW a character and reap a des- And to have a sound mind we tiny," is just as true as when the must be made free from the car- I ^ words were uttered long ago. nal mind. Tell me on what level you THE ABUSE OF RELIGIOUS pitch your thinking and I will LIBERTY what level you pitch tell you on iCGntinued jrom page 6) think on your living. You cannot Then God will show us a clear a low level and live on a high channel through. The wrongs King's horses can plane. All the we refer to are not personal signs in not keep a man from ending such as jealousy or lying, but if permits his the gutter he wrong attitudes, wrong spiritual mind to sag to gutter levels. The education, and particularly Prodigal thought himself away wrong conceptions of the whole from home and he thought him- Scriptural question of authority Prodi- self back. As soon as the in the churches. gal began to think up he had in him an urge to get up. Will the HOW TO LIVE IN APOSTATE Prodigal stay up or go down? It CHRISTENDOM will depend on what plane he {Continued from page 19) is positive, ) holds in thinking. Jude's instruction and of (5) The mind is the most RE- only positive. The big job VEALING part of man. How every Christian is to keep him- This may I know what kind of a per- self in the love of God. son I am? Not always by what I does not mean that a true Chris- do; not always by what I say. A tian is to be conciliatory and man is his thoughts; he is the easy going regarding either the sum of his ideas, his memories, error or the immiorality of false his desires, as well as his mo- Christians any more than it tives. means that he is supposed to It Strange it is that we have giv- burn heretics at the stake. is en so much attention and em- love's one husiness at all times phasis to the outside and so lit- to seek to convert the heretic tle to the inside since the Word from the error of his way. While of God declares, ''As a man the Christian is to hate the very thinketh in his heart so is he." ''garment spotted by the flesh," incite him to do all that can . If mind is the most distinctive Jude ' part of man, the most active part be done to rescue the individual
of man, the most hidden part of (v. 23) . Have pity (mercy) up- man, the most controlling part on some; snatch some cut of the of man, and the most revealing fire; and in some cases have pity part of man, then how essential mingled with fear (caution) (vs. it is that we have a sound mind. 22, 23). HERBERT SUMNER MILLER
Herbert Sumner Miller was born in Avon, New York, on May 30, 1867. He received his early education in various public schools, and the first two years of high school were completed at Avon. Since he could not get Greek there, he transferred to the Genesee Wesleyan Methodist Seminary at Lima, New York, graduating as salutatorian of his class in 1888. He entered Syracuse Uni- versity in 1888, where he completed a course in Latin and Greek. He was graduated in 1892 with a B. A. degree, and continued work there until 1895, when he received his M. A.
He was independently ordained to the Gospel ministry in Rochester, New York, at the Faith Mission in that city.
After his graduation, Prof. Miller gave himself faithfully to the work of the church. His principal field of work, however, was as teacher and professor in various Bible Institutes. For 12 years he taught in the Practical Bible Training School at Binghamton, New York, for 22 years at the Na- tional Bible Institute in New York City, and 2 years at the Fort Wayne Bible Institute, Fort Wayne, Indiana.
He retired from active service as a teacher about 1933 and settled in Houghton, New York. For 10 years he devoted his entire time to writing Bible Concordates and carrying on the Gospel through the "Word-Bearer Press." Best known are his Christian Worker's Manual, Ephesians, and Biblical Introduction. He has also composed and published several hymns. In 1897 he married Alice Bellas, a composer and author in her own right, and ever a guiding help to him in his life work until her death in 1929.
On December 3, 1941 Prof. Miller was taken with a heart attack which left him in such a weakened condition that he was confined to his bed from that time on. Another severe attack occurred on January 4, causing his death on January 5, 1942. The funeral was held in the Wesleyan Methodist Church at Houghton, New York. Rev. Black, the pastor, read the Scripture and Claude A. Ries, Professor of Theology at Houghton College, preached the funeral sermon. Burial was in the Houghton Cemetery. Surviving are four sons, Howard Miller of New York City, Harlow Miller of Earlville, Illinois, Ronald Miller of Ottawa, Illinois, and Paul Miller of New Haven, Connecticut; two daughters, Miss Margaret Miller of New York City, and Mrs. Roderick Ayer of Port Byron, N. Y.; and one sister, Mrs. Ellen Miller Donaldson of Norwich. N. Y. —
THE BIBLE VISION 23
In the World Today Are Laborers To Become Slaves? dead to each five wounded, as compared with The Polish Minister of Labor one dead to five in I. says: wounded World War Since the figures do not segregate the "The workers of all countries missing and prisoners from the and their leaders must realize dead and wounded, there is still that if Nazi and Fascist countries no basis for calculation of the were able to defeat the nations death toll. All that can be said defending their freedom, work- is that it is undoubtedly huge. ers would become slav^es Total Russian losses in throughout the world. The Po- World War I, killed, wounded and miss- lish workers already have the ing, were 9,150,000 in three tragic realization of how appall- years, as compared with the ad- ing is the fate of the workers un- mitted 2,122,000 for five months der the domination of Nazi and of this war. Total German loss- Fascist hangmen. es in World I, four years, "Misery, starvation, complete War /,14Z UUU. destruction of normal living con- ^^,^ The ratios speak bloodily ditions-such is Hitler's Neue ^ themselves, Ordnung. In Poland today there ^^^ are no workers; there are only Famine Stalks About slaves—starving, humiliated, de- In these days of unprecedent- prived of social rights, robbed of ed calamity it almost seems a human dignity. The history of small thing to state that 6,000,000 civilized peoples has never people are facing almost certain known such a system of deliber- starvation in one province of ate cruelty and barbarism." China alone. The Japanese have broken down the dykes in the War Costs in Human Blood hope of flooding out the gueril- It has been said that the War las. The people, consequently, in Russia is the most destructive have been reduced to living on in which human beings have bark and grass roots. One ever engaged. Announcements bran, correspondent says that all the of Russian and German losses do dogs and cats have been eaten. not give any ratio of dead to ^^^^^5^^' '^"°"^ horseman of wounded and missing,^' but there the Apocalypse,^^f Famine, is on seems reason to believe that this the march. World Dominion. is far higher than in any pre- vious conflict. Enormous Waste British experience is said to Over against the famine condi- indicate a proportion of four tions in other parts of the world —
24 THE BIBLE VISION
there is tremendous waste in ment before being surrendered America. While from govern- to the Nazis. Prophecy. ment agencies comes the oft- Because the publishing heard slogan, 'Tood Will Win of Bibles has come to a practical the War," H. M. Johnson, Presi- standstill on the European con- dent of the American Business tinent, while the bindery of the M e n 's Research Foundation, British and Foreign Bible Socie- points out that mountains of ty, in a London suburb, has been grain and other staple foodstuffs destroyed by an incendiary are still consumed in the manu- bomb—with the loss of not only facture af alcoholic beverages. stock, but of most of the ma- Mr. Johnson states that the chinery—the American Bible So- latest available figures show ciety is busy with "emergency that in 1939 corn, rice, barley projects" to meet some of the and rye to a total of 3,716,722,- calls coming from all parts of the 680 pounds were consumed in world. Recent undertakings of the manufacture of liquor, as the Society include 130,000 Span- well as 150,765,000 pounds of ish Bibles, 170,000 New Testa- sugar and 163,233,000 gallons of ments and 150,000 gospels in molasses. The several quantities Russian, 50,000 Gospels of St. undoubtedly are larger now, by John for Greek war prisoners, reason of the constant expansion 600 pulpit Bibles for American of the business. Army chapels, 10,000 Bibles for All these are valuable, high- Southern France, and the re- energy foods and their aggregate printing of the Slovak Bible. would help keep a good sized ar- Through my going for quite a while, or the untiring efforts of Dr. would go a good ways in reliev- Henry Einspruch, Balti- more, director ing the hunger of the many who of Jewish mission are starving to death. activity of the United Lutheran Church, the first Yiddish New "Scorched Earth" Policy Testaments now are being print- It came out recently in a meet- ed in America. The translation, ing of the Soviet Academy of printing and typesetting for the Sciences held in Moscow that the new Yiddish edition were either ''scorched earth" policy being done or supervised by Dr. Ein- used against the Nazis includes spruch. Previously, Yiddish New the spraying of fields with chem- Testaments were published only icals which destroy the fertility in London and Germany. Both of the soil for two years. Large of these sources are closed—in areas of the Ukraine have been London by bombing and in the treated with this destroying ele- Reich by Nazi authorities. THE BIBLE VISION 25
With the Fellowship Circle
NEWS ITEMS FOREIGN GLEANINGS
Rev. Joseph Klopfenstein, ('27) De- Jebba, Nigeria, West Africa, troit, Mich., is conducting a revival in the Missionary church, Pandora, Ohio. Jan. 2, 1942. Rev. and Mrs. Armin Steiner ('26) are How I Spent My First Christmas in serving in this church. Africa My first Christmas in Africa! I had Howard Stein, ('41) Saginaw, Mich., wondered how it would seem to be in writes: "What could be more glorious a country of eternal summer at Christ- than living for the glory of the Son of mas time, for it is strange how one will God? Nothing whatsoever! While associate certain holidays to his own composing the words for a compo- native climate. But after all, the first sition entitled, 'He was despised,' Christmas was in the Orient, and it is (Isa. 53:3) the artist became so broken- not the climate or the country that hearted, and tender, that tears began really makes Christmas. The true Spirit flowing from his eyes. As we exalt of Christmas is found in every land Christ in our service, we and those to where souls have been redeemed, and whom we minister will also be melted in their hearts there is joy and grati- in God's divine presence. In thank- tude for the Greatest Gift of all times fulness to God, I have been privileged —the Lord Jesus Christ. to serve, since November, the new - Just two weeks before Christmas we Christian and Missionary Alliance received word that there would be church of Saginaw, Mich., and also a air-service to America starting that country chapel." week. This news was like a call that awakened within me thoughts of In preparation for future missionary Christmas. I soon had a few letters work, Roy Whittum ('41) is laboring ready to send home; I hope they ar- Sanatorium, at the Michigan State rived in time for December the 25th. his medi- Howell, Michigan, receiving The next step in response to this cal training. Christmas call was to go shopping. Yes, I really Christmas shopping Rev. and Mrs. Edgar Shady, Croton, went here in Nigeria. Rev. Joseph Ummel Ohio, write us the following word: took Mrs. Ummel and me in the mo- " 'Hitherto hath the Lord helped us.' torcycle to our one and only store here How we do praise Him for His good- in Jebba, which is called a canteen. It ness and love to us for the many bless- is not like our stores at home, but one ings He so freely gives His children! would hardly expect it to be. At times The Lord has been very precious in one can find appropriate things for our church work. We have seen many gifts, but I guess this was not the time victories and wonderful answers to for that. I looked at the yard goods, prayer. We are serving the Lord in some lovely velvet table covers, and a two Christian Union churches. Both few other things, but they didn't fit are located in the country. my taste or my purse, and I had to pres- "We think of the entire B. I. family leave the store without buying a and so often get our pictures out that ent. I did, however, get a present for remind us of the happy times we had Mrs. Ummel from our native pastor's together while there. May the Lord wife. continually bless you." Then Christmas day arrived. I arose 26 THE BIBLE VISION
at 6:30 A. M., and while I dressed, my Home on Furlough heart was filled with praise and grati- Swanton, Ohio. tude to the Lord for His many bless- Dear Friends: ings to me, for the privilege of coming Our furlough was a year overdue. to this land, for restored health, and After ten months of effort, writing of most of all for the gift of His Son. endless long letters and many other About that time you people athome were things, we secured a new "War Time still up, perhaps making preparations Passport" from the American consul for the following day, since your time in Algiers, Algeria. This new pass- was 11:30. Well, at 7:15 we had family port which was good for travel "any- worship, after which we opened our where in Africa," assured us freedom presents and then had our breakfast. in traveling through whatever colony We were glad to have the temperature we might find it necessary to pass on down to 59 degrees, for it made us think our homeward journey. of home; we were actually chilly. By Since no boats touched French West noon, though, the sun reminded us Africa, our route was first planned that we knew that we were in Africa. through Sierra Leone, which meant about four trek At 9:30 we had our Christmas service days' over mountains, through valleys countless at the church. Rev. Ummel gave a very and numbers of streams carrying all good message on the Wise Men; the na- of our baggage on the heads of natives. Because tive pastor, Mr. Taylor, interpreted it in- we could to Yuroba. A special song was sung by not get away before the heavy the choir in Yuroba, and Mrs. Ummel rains started, we secured special per- mission from the Governors of the and I sang a song in English. It was a good service with over one hundred Soudan, Ivory Coast, and the Gold Coast, to pass through the Ivory fifty present. After the service we Coast and embark from the Gold Coast. climbed the hill back to the mission Timbuktu has been house where we soon had our lunch, our workshop for the past five years. left there after which we had our siesta. We July 24th in an Arab's truck after hav- At 7:30 in the evening dinner was ing obtained permission from the local served, and was it ever good! We had Commander to use enough of our own been invited out to a turkey dinner, but gasoline, which we had reserved for two days before Christmas this in- over a year for the expressed purpose vitation was cancelled, but these peo- of taking us the ten miles to the river ple sent their turkey over anyway. and the return of the truck. Since the Ummels were having the From the Timbuktu port we enjoyed turkey they invited the government a very pleasant voyage by Niger river men of Jebba for dinner. Only Mr. steamer to Mopti, where we expected Cowley came—the others had to work. to get a commercial truck for Bobo- We had a grand turkey with all of the dioulasso, the head, of the railway trimmings, even mock cranberry sauce. which leads to the coast. After wait- We also had pumpkin pie made from ing seven days to no effect for a com- squash, but one would ever know the mercial truck, we started out for Bobo difference from good American pump- on a mail truck, which, we found out after we ran into kin pie. After dinner we talked and a ditch, had no brakes. This route took us via Bamako played a few games, and thus the day and Sikasso, which was 500 miles far- was spent. This was my first Christ- ther, because we could not get a truck mas in Africa. direct to Bobo. After four strenuous days we reached Bobo. Luella Landrey, Again we waited four days for a THE BIBLE VISION 27
train. Two days' travel through virgin current took my car about eighty yards ^ forest and jungle on a narrow gauge out into the ocean. I jumped out and w train which shook us from one side of left it go." the seat to the other, brought us to Although we had to travel about Abidjan, the capital of the Ivory Coast. 1750 miles, which took us just one Mr. Maurel, a Christian man, whom month, to the coast, and waited two we have known for several years, and months and twelve days there for a who is secretary to the Governor, or- boat, in all we were four months minus dered a government motor boat to meet two days en route from Timbouctou to us at the end of the road and the be- New York. We are very grateful to ginning of the lagoon to transport us God for His faithfulness and blessing. across about eighty miles of water. The "The Lord shall preserve thy going boat appeared shortly alter we arrived out and thy coming in from this time the following day. forth and even for evermore." We At noon the next day we reached the are willing to go out as soon as the Gold Coast. One hour's walk took us door opens. to the border of the ocean. There we Forever yours in our Lord, slept in peace, and the next morning F. H. Bowman ('27) for breakfast we enjoyed our last box of sardines and loaf of French bread. Bongolo via Mouila, Gabon, The most exciting part of our trip French Equatorial Africa, was from here to Axim, where we October 29, 1941. met our first English District Com- Dear Friends: missioner. We had called a truck We thank God for His presence with I driver to be at our starting point at us during our long journey from In- 8 A. M. the next morning, so we could diana to Bongolo, our mission station. travel along the slope of the sandy We were conscious that many of you beach at low tide. Unfortunately, the were praying for us because the pres- truck we ordered was eighty miles ence of the Lord was manifested to us away, and since the road was bad, did in a remarkable way. We could not not reach us until 10 o'clock. The tide have wished for a pleasanter ocean was already two hours on its way in. voyage. We hastily loaded our baggage with We were pleasently surprised upon nine missionaries and children and four our arrival in Matadi, Congo Beige, natives in the old V-8 station wagon, West Africa, to learn through Mr. and off we started at full speed for a Fairley and Mr. Knudson, who came race with time and tide. Soon another there with their automobiles to take car came to relieve us of some of our us to Boma, that it would not be neces- load. Car trouble followed. The gas sary for us to stay in Congo as we had line broke! Until the car was repaired thought, but that arrangements were time was nearly gone and the tide was completed for us to proceed at once to almost at its height. Ocean breakers the Gabon with the Fairleys and Mr. broke against the car and gave us a Lentz. shower bath as we sped on. Fast as After spending three busy days in f those wheels were moving, it seemed Boma, transferring baggage and taking we never would make those 35 1-o-n-g care of other business, we were off for miles. It seemed ages! God was gra- the great needy pioneer field of Gabon. cious to us and we arrived safely. Upon It took us two weeks to make this trip visiting the District Commissioner we by car, truck, train and canoe. A few related to him our experience. He days of much needed rest was enjoyed replied, "You were very fortunate. The at a Swedish evangelical mission in the last time I made that trip the under- beautiful seaport city of Pointe Noire. 28 THE BIBLE VISION
Our baggage was taken through cus- ing part of this time they were the toms at this place. only white Protestant missionaries in Eight very busy months have passed southern Gabon. We are trusting God since we arrived at Bongolo. During for a faithful native church to press this time we have, to a small extent, forward to the uttermost bounds of become adjusted to this land with its this great territory. Calls for teachers strange peoples, customs, and climate. come in almost constantly from many Each day has been filled with interest- sections of the country. We thank God ing experiences; and now we are be- for this hunger for the Word. Some ginning to realize a little of the great- of the calls come from influential ter- ness of the responsibilities of this work, ritorial chiefs. which will require the very best that The work on the station is progress- we as a family can offer. ing nicely. The station is literally alive Mr. Fairley, director of the Gabon with black faces. Everybody is busily Field, came here about seven years engaged on the building program, ago and opened a station on this site which includes the erection of much now known as Bongolo, named after needed missionary houses and a church the beautiful waterfalls on the Luetsi and school building. Mr. Lentz, a river, which joins our compound. Mr. builder and contractor from Pennsyl- and Mrs. Fairley worked perseveringly vania, is supervising the construction through great difficulties during the work. The sawmill and wood-work early beginning of the work. There machinery, given by Mr. R. G. Le were no paths and roads leading to this Tourneau, are being used to good ad- location. They had to cut their way vantage in speeding up the building of through tall grass and forest. There these much needed houses. This ma- were no friends to greet them with chinery, now operated by gasoline, will a warm welcoming voice. There were soon be connected to the new electrical no houses to shelter them from the power plant, which was also given by tropical storms. This was indeed a Mr. Le Tourneau. Mr. Lentz is install- pioneer field in every way. God hon- ing this plant on the Bongolo water- ored their persistent efforts by over- falls. We know you will praise the coming opposition, and by giving them Lord with us for all this much ap- souls at the very beginning of the preciated equipment. work. It didn't take Mr. Fairley long It is very interesting as well as dif- to win the hearts of multitudes of peo- ficult to teach the natives, who have ple. Nearly all of the early converts never worked before, to do a day's are now faithful Christians and teach- work. Some of them do quite well, but ers of the Word. I think at the present most of them are quite satisfied to do time we have about 30 teacher-evan- what they have been doing most of gelists working in six different tribes. their lives, which is absolutely "noth-
Our farthest outpost is seven days ing." It is impossible for the white from here. Of course, that is not very man to do everything he would like to far when we consider the entirety of do on account of the unhealthful trop- our field, which covers thousands of ical climate. So we do thank God for square miles with a population of per- a few dependable native workers. haps upwards to a half million people. Eight services a week are held here A large parish indeed for us nine white on the station for the natives. Many missionaries including the Piersons, have taken a definite stand for the who are expecting to sail for the States Lord during recent months. We re- next .month for a much needed fur- joice to see the change that comes into lough. The Piersons have entered their their lives when they accept Christ as sixth year of this present term. Dur- (Continued on page 31) THE BIBLE VISION 29
Bible Institute News f Christmas ed, especially was infused with the Every school has a sort of unname- light and strength of heaven. First able thing that might almost be desig- praise, which is always comely to the nated "atmosphere." Some call it upright, was sung by the guests, led by "school spirit." A reference to "Bible Professor Gerber. Then Mrs. S. A. Institute spirit" hardly seems appro- Witmer sang "He Shall Lead His Flock priate. It would be our purpose not to Like a Shepherd" from the Messiah. be renowned for any spirit of our own President Ramseyer led the devotions, but to make known the praise of God speaking on I Timothy 3:16 and John by the presence and power of the Holy 17:18, emphasizing that not only did Spirit, that in all things Christ might "God manifest in the flesh" make every have the preeminence. The manifesta- provision for us, but that He manifests tion of this desire is never greater than Himself in us as well, sending us forth during the Christmas season, in first, into the world, even as God sent Christ a brooding over the face of these wa- into the world. It has been said that ters and, then, the birth of days that all art and beauty is an expression of are different; and God fulfills Him- the personality of God. So it seemed self afresh, lest persistence of the old as we were blessed in listening to the order yield stagnation. One evening, harps, played by Mr. Gerald Korn and hungry bodies rushing to the dining Mr. John Escosa, and to the piano, room at the double bell signal sudden- played by Mr. Weaver. In his Christ- ly were arrested by the seeing of the mas meditations on Galatians 4:4-5, Mr. I " eye and hearing of the ear. On the Leightner explained the significance back wall, big, bright letters proclaimed of the Virgin Birth and of the fulfill- His Name Wonderful, Counsellor, the ment of the law in Christ, accomplish- Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, ing our redemption and ensuring our the Prince of Peace; and the melodies sonship. Messrs. Gerber, Eicher, and of carols made His praise glorious. The Gerig sang a trio, and Messrs. Korn and legitimate demands of the flesh took Escosa again played the harps. The their subordinate place, while the soul rewards of the labors of love spent magnified the Lord. upon this banquet were grace and peace The blessings of these days bore fruit multiplied unto us "through the knowl- in the hard work of faithful hearts and edge of God and of Jesus our Lord." hands praying and planning that the We were more clearly conscious than Christmas dinner might fill the hungry ever before that "His divine power soul with good things. Answers to these hath given unto us all things that per- petitions came in a beautiful dining tain unto life and godliness." room with tables tastefully arranged; The Christmas vacation is, of course, in good, well-cooked food, perfectly a gracious relief from the grind of the served; and in a devotional period di- year. But it has a deeper significance vinely ordered and blessed. The as a reasonable degree of recreation, physical menu consisted of tomato by word and life in home, church, and juice, city chicken, mashed potatoes community. For those who remained I " and gravy, peas and carrots, candied at the Institute, there were blessed sweet potatoes, pickles and celery, times of worship and praise, as well cranberry nut salad, rolls and jelly, as a reasonable degree of recreation. apple pie a la mode, coffee, and mints. But with all the good, the Bible Institute The tone of the entire occasion was was not exempt from trouble. It is devotional; but the prepared program, well to be confident that "All things over which Dean Witmer ably presid- work together for good" if we love the 30 THE BIBLE VISION
Lord and that 'the trials of this pres- needs our prayers, there is something ent time are not worthy to be com- wrong with our spiritual life;" "Mis- pared with the glory that shall be re- sionaries who are planning for the field { vealed in us." Prayer for these needs will never succeed without interces- was the privilege of the group and sors!" "The Christian ministry is based the strength of the sick. Miss Isabel on obedience to truth;" "When we deal Zehr was suddenly stricken with ap- with God's children and God's money, pendicitis on December 31 and taken we are dealing with sacred things, so to the Lutheran hospital. God has be very careful and very prayerful." answered prayer in her behalf, and all The service on January 9 was united are rejoicing in her convalescence with the prophetic conference of the and looking forward to her return to First Missionary Church. Mr. Bloom- school. Miss Melvina Basinger suffered field, of Butler, Indiana, was the speak- from a very severe cold, at the same er. In his message on "The Other Side time faithfully serving in a double of Armageddon," he pictured graphi- capacity, because of vacation absences, cally the place and position of Chris- until she was forced to her bed. Moth- tians when Christ comes to reign. Mr. er Lugibihl was another of the suffer- Theodore Ziemer, from the Christian ers Characteristically, she has been and Missionary Alliance Mission in uncomplaining and has been made a Thailand, spoke on January 16. He blessing to many, praising God for His exhorted to the urge of responsibility faithfulness. Prayer is also being of- for Eastern Thailand with its 60,000 fered constantly in behalf of Mrs. square miles of great need. Only Bedsworth, mother of Miss Jane Beds- thirteen years ago, not one person worth, in her serious illness, as well as could be found who had ever heard for Mr. Eicher, who recently has not of God. The people worshipped white been well, and for Mrs. Eicher. cows and white elephants. Hence, the In the absence of Miss Zehr, we are Japanese used white elephants in their glad to welcome Miss Mabel Schindler advance on Thailand, for Thai soldiers as her efficient substitute. would not shoot on them. But God Mission Band is working there, and even in the The Lord's blessing upon the Mission midst of the present terrible situation. Band is manifested in His humble, He is giving a great revival. helpful servants whom He sends as Chapel speakers. On December 19, Mr. Kil- Outside speakers for chapel have bourne, son of one of the co-founders been Mr. Niel Hawkins, Executive of the Oriental Missionary Society, Secretary of the Student Foreign Mis- brought a message in song and testi- sions Fellowship; Reverend William mony. Mr. Chandler, of the same Hygema; the Misses Burt and Moon Board, was the speaker. He told of of Bethany Orphanage; Reverend C. N. victories for Christ in preaching the Hostetter of Messiah Bible College, Gospel to every creature from house Grantham, Pennsylvania; Dr. Homer to house in Oriental lands. January Gettle of the Gettle Optical Company; 2, Rev. T. J. Bach, of the Scandinavian Reverend P. R. McConnell of the Alliance Mission, was welcomed back South Side Nazarene Church; Rev. | to the Bible Institute as a return speak- R. S. Roseberry of the Christian and er from last year. His loving, humble Missionary Alliance; Reverend Arthur spirit is a definite challenge to both Bloomfield of Butler, Indiana; Rev. students and staff. In his message and Mrs. M. E. Jacobson of French were such gems as these: "If we are Equatorial Africa; and Mr. George Christians, we will make contacts for Dibble, who conducted an inspiration- Jesus wherever we are;" "If no one al song service. On January 9, our THE BIBLE VISION 31 own Mrs. Ramseyer was made a great Yours for souls in Gabon, blessing to all, as she ably told the Mr. ('29) and Mrs. ('30) Waldo story of a little boy whose very life Schindler and Lois. was an example of the exhortation in Galatians 6:10, "As we have oppor- Nellie Thum ('33) writes this testi- tunity, let us do good." mony from Lansing, Michigan: Although we appreciate the great "Praise the Lord for sanctifying one men whom God sends us from every- woman, saving another, and bringing where, we praise Him above all for one man back into victory—just a good our own President and the blessed start. Thanks for your prayers, and messages from His Word out of a life continue to lift." rich, mellow, and mature in the things Tillman ('38) and Blanchard ('41) of God. He has reminded us that God Amstutz, sons of Rev. and Mrs. Menno anoints us both to live a holy life and Amstutz, Royal Oak, Mich., are on a to minister; that as Jesus ministered Western tour which will take them to in the power of the Spirit, so must we, many interesting points. They are go- for "as He is, so are we;" that in our ing through Bucklin, Kans., and Phoe- ministry we have a Mediator, who in- nix, Ariz., on to California. tercedes in behalf of all men, in be- half of the sanctification of His people, WEDDINGS and in behalf of His Kingdom; and The Fellowship Circle extends best that for His coming again we must be wishes to the following couples: prepared in purity, in prayerfulness, Miss Effie Bremer and William Col- and in love for His appearing. lier, both of Fort Wayne, Ind., were united in marriage in the Dr. A. Bre- WITH THE FELLOWSHIP CIRCLE mer residence. Fort Wayne, Ind., on {Continued from page 28) August 21st. Rev. B. F. Leightner of- their Saviour. We are glad to know ficiated at the ceremony. They are that many of you are praying for us now residing at 2610 South Wayne because this task would be too great Ave., Ft. Wayne, Ind. Mr. Collier is without your prayer help. Even though enrolled as a student at the Institute. the natives have been in ignorance and On Sunday, January 25th, Miss Ina superstition for centuries, God enables Ethel Norquist ('34), Morton, Illinois, them to believe and to receive the sim- became the bride of Ira Gene Steiner, ple gospel messages into their hearts. Fort Wayne, Indiana. The wedding They pray so earnestly and give real took place at the Harvester Avenue heart-stirring testimonies,. What a Missionary Church. Rev. J. E. Ram- change in their lives! seyer officiated at the ceremony. We are happy in the Lord and we Following their marriage, about 30 enjoy our work very much. It is quite immediate relatives attended the in- different from what we were used to formal reception, which was held at the in the States, but we enjoy it. We home of Rev. and Mrs. M. E. Ramseyer, are also very grateful for good health. uncle and aunt of the bride. Just be- The climate is quite severe, but He fore the friends left, Rev. M. E. Ram- who has called us will also keep us. seyer called for a verse of the songs, Thank God for the Great Physician, "Blest Be the Tie That Binds" and Jesus Christ. "God Be with You Till We Meet We would be so glad to have you Again." pray for all of us daily. We shall be Mr. and Mrs. Steiner left on a short very glad to hear from you. Mail is wedding trip, and upon their return to rather uncertain these days, but it Fort Wayne will be in their home on will reach us eventually. Dalgreen Ave. May God bless them. Gifts for Founders' Memorial
JANUARY 1-27
General 45 8.00 114 9.00 13 $100.00 46 40.00 115 10.00 14 100.00 47 30.00 116 2.00 15 50.00 48 10.00 117 5.00 16 10.00 49 50.00 118 8.00 17 10.00 50 5.00 119 10.00 18 15.00 51 2000.00 120 8.00 19 10.00 52 35.00 121 10.00 20 5.00 53 100.00 122 5.00 21 5.00 54 40.00 123 5.00 22 10.00 55 500.00 124 7.50 23 2.00 56 10.00 125 6.00 24 4.00 57 10.00 126 5.00 25 2.00 58 1.00 127 12.00 26 2.00 59 15.00 128 2.50 27 6.00 60 5.00 129 5.00 28 6.00 61 5.00 130 85.00 29 1.00 62 5.00 131 13.00 30 9.00 63 3.00 132 2.00 31 1.00 64 500.00 133 13.00 32 32.00 65 6.00 134 20.00 33 10.00 67 5.00 135 6.00 34 5.00 69 2.00 136 15.00 35 5.00 70 13.80 137 15.00 36 2.00 71 5.00 138 9.00
38 17.00 . , 139 4.00 40 500.00 Fellowship Circle 140 10.00 41 12.00 110 3.00 141 10.00 42 3.00 111 5.00 142 5.00
44 5.00 113 ."....-'..".' 5.00 Total $4737.80
The Building Committee is indeed grateful to God for the loyal and generous support of many Christian friends. The new building will be completed in about two months and tentative plans are under way to have dedi- catory services from May 4 to 10. Full announcement will be made in the April issue of the Bible Vision. BUILDING COMMITTEE
Fort Wayne, Indiana Bible Institute