“Redeeming the time, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:16).

VOLUME 4, NUMBER 4 u FALL 2012 Unbiblical “Ye shall be witnesses unto me …” Ecumenism at Wheaton College

heaton College, in , was once supported and at- tended by many Fundamen- WWtal Christians. However, over the last 80 years, it has gradually slipped quite far from that heritage. It was of great interest in 2010 when it was an- nearly nounced that Dr. Philip Ryken was re- signing his pas- torate at Phila- 150F F F F Y E A R S delphia’s histor- ic Tenth Presby- of combined missionary service terian Church to assume the Left to Right: Mrs. Evelyn Ricker, Miss Joan Davenport and Miss Judith Collins have presidency of given their lives to serve Christ on the mission field. They were first appointed by Wheaton. The Independent Board for Presbyterian Foreign Missions in 1956, 1962 and 1970, As a minis- respectively. Mrs. Ricker first went with her husband to Brazil. They now serve ter in the Pres- together in Guatemala. Miss Davenport first went to the United Arab Emirates, byterian Church and has more recently been serving in the West Bank in the Holy Land. Miss Collins in America (PCA), serves in Kenya. These three ladies were a great blessing to all who attended the some had hoped 2012 family camp of Faith Presbytery, Bible Presbyterian Church. that Dr. Ryken would be a force to reverse the college’s departure from its roots. How- Godly Contentment in Our ever, it appears that Wheaton continues unabated on this course. “A Conversation on Unity Entitlement Society in Christ’s Mission” by Brad K. Gsell On March 26, 2012, Wheaton host- ed “A Conversation on Unity in Christ’s ew will deny that the acrimony, anger, dissatisfaction, and general un- happiness marking this election cycle in the United States are greater Continued on page 11 than ever in our history. We have moved far beyond the legitimate place of fairly, accurately and passionately pointing out the strengths See companion article: Fand flaws of various philosophies of governance in the free marketplace of ideas. OPC General Assembly Continued on page 15 at Wheaton College on pageContinued 13 on page 6 Clyde Johnstone Kennedy: Casting a Long Shadow for the Cause of Christ

by Howard Carlson

lyde Johnstone Kennedy sought ways to relieve the physical gressive youth meetings. These efforts was born on July 2, 1907, needs. There were strict written rules were soon noticed “by a progressive, in Halifax Nova Scotia. His for each team member. Each had to local minister named Clyde Kennedy, Cfather, Horace Kennedy, submit a detailed written report of who offered him a position as Chris- was second great grandson of Wil- his previous week’s activities. At the tian Education Director and Choir Di- liam Kennedy, an early Presbyterian end of two years, 60 seminary stu- rector at the Gainesville Presbyterian immigrant from Ireland. dents were involved and President Church. The two hit it off, and while In 1924, when Clyde was 17 Stevenson included “this fine minis- serving in this position, Kennedy gave years old, his family moved to south- try” in the report of his administra- direction for the founding of Young ern California. It was there, at the tion to the Board. Life. Kennedy explained to Rayburn: wellknown Hollywood Presbyterian After graduating from Princeton ‘I’m not particularly worried about Church, that he accepted Christ as in 1936, Clyde returned to California the kids who are in [the church]. his Savior and soon felt a call to the where he was ordained and became They’re safe, and as far as they’re Gospel ministry. a pastor of the Wilshire Immanuel concerned I don’t need your services. The Mount Hermon Conference To you I entrust the crowd of teenag- Center was a great influence in his For the thousands who ers who stay away from the church. development. After graduating from The center of your widespread par- Hollywood High School, he attend- were delivered from the ish will be the local high school’” ed Moody Bible Institute for a year ecumenical errors, and the (Emile Cailliet, Young Life, 1963, p. and then went on to UCLA, graduat- multitude delivered from 11). Young Life went on to become a ing in 1933 as a history major. In the sin unto salvation by his great international student movement fall of the same year, Clyde traveled ministry, Dr. Kennedy was for Christ. [Editor’s Note: Sadly, it to New Jersey to enter Princeton has succumbed to the compromise of Theological Seminary. truly great. But for his New .] At Princeton, Clyde met up with simple child-like obedience But the Presbyterian Church old friends Dave Cowie and Robert to the Word of God and (USA) had sunk into apostasy and Munger, “the California crazies” as insistence on purity, he Kennedy had too high a view of they were called. They soon joined God’s holiness to remain in a denom- Wheaton College graduates Bob must be enrolled as one ination with entrenched unbelief. Pierce and Otto DeCamp in start- of the church’s greats. Elder Bernard Peterman has writ- ing a Sunday evening fellowship in ten: “As a result of his fearless and Alexander Hall. Shortly thereafter, Presbyterian Church. He married faithful stand for the Word of God they started a mission to the slums his college sweetheart, Dorothy, in against the unbelief in the Presbyte- of Trenton, NJ. Under severe criti- 1938, and they went to Gainesville, rian denomination, he [Clyde] suf- cism from students and Princeton TX, on their honeymoon to visit his fered real persecution at the hands of staff (Seminary president Stevenson wife’s birthplace. The First Presby- the Fort Worth Presbytery.” called them “red hot gospelers”), terian Church there did not have a Carolyn Smyth, Clyde’s daugh- they entered this work enthusias- minister at the time and called him ter, wrote of his departure from the tically. One of them wrote: “The to be their pastor, which call he ac- denomination: “As I heard it, the im- depth of the poverty we saw ripped cepted. While there, he did addition- mediate cause of his removal from at our hearts. But even worse, these al studies at nearby Dallas Theologi- the Presbytery, which was probably children knew nothing about a lov- cal Seminary. in 1942, was caused by his having ing heavenly Father. So we started a In Gainesville, a young seminar- the Rev. Charles Richter come to the mission Sunday school.” They also ian, James Rayburn, was holding ag- church as a guest speaker, as Richter

2 Redeeming the Time | Fall 2012 www.rttpublications.org had been placed on a list of persons the church needed its own property. Clockwise from top: Dr. Kennedy not welcome in the Presbytery for Because of Kennedy’s faithful per- preaching in the Chapel of Shelton reasons that I don’t know. But my sonal witnessing to an elderly Jewish College during his time as Presi- father still invited him to preach….” lady, she agreed to sell her valuable dent; the Kennedy family; The First The Rev. Hal Webb recalls that Clyde property to him for the new church Presbyterian Church of Gainesville, came under fire for his close work location on Glendale Avenue. The Texas, where Dr. Kennedy served with the “Fundamentalist” Rayburns first and second phases of building as pastor before joining the Bible and the new Young Life organiza- plus a small office building were Presbyterian Church; Dr. Kennedy tion. The Presbytery had not yet in- completed by 1952. The new sanc- in the library of stalled Clyde as pastor so were able tuary was faithfully constructed in with students. to dismiss him without other action. a colonial pattern, including a Mur- Kennedy, now 35 years old, re- ray Harris pipe organ. Westminster turned to California and established Academy was started soon after in a radio Bible class. Two months later, the new facilities. he received a call to the small Calvary Kennedy’s sermons were power- Bible Church in Glendale, CA. This ful. His preaching from the Psalms congregation had recently left the was exceptional. He had a way of apostate Presbyterian Church (USA). bringing the Scriptural application To help support his family in to the hearts of young men — me those difficult war years, Kennedy included. also taught at Biola College. In April Continued on page 4 1943, he hosted the ordination of a Bible Presbyterian missionary, George Bragdon, and first personally met Carl McIntire, who preached the ordination sermon. Kennedy served the Lord at Cal- vary for 14 tumultuous years. On February 8, 1945, the congregation joined the Bible Presbyterian de- nomination and became Calvary Bi- ble Presbyterian Church. They were meeting in an old Grand Army of the Republic hall, and Kennedy felt that

www.rttpublications.org Fall 2012 | Redeeming the Time 3 Kennedy … finally, if we care anything about the This great contender for the faith honor of the Lord Jesus Christ, and was equally known as a great soul- Continued from page 3 the place due His Holy Word, we are winner. He passed out tracts at gas I have partial notes of just three under a solemn obligation to speak. stations and restaurants — every- of his sermons. Concerning the This speaking, let it be understood, where he went — always. He loved Church at Laodicea in Revelation is in love. But what, exactly, is speak- nothing more than to present the 3, his notes start: “There are emo- ing in love? Is it to speak lovingly? gospel to lost sinners. tions ascribed to our Lord. At times One of the greatest achievements he was grieved, angry, and here He This great contender of Clyde Kennedy, in my opinion, is disgusted.” Vivid applications fol- for the faith was equally was the founding of Highland Col- lowed on the current church condi- known as a great lege. A Presbyterian Guardian article tion. His John 3:16 notes include: of August 1950 read: “An announce- “Why did God give His only begot- soulwinner. He passed ment has been made of the opening ten Son? Was it that we might all out tracts at gas stations of , in Pasadena, make a decent living, live in a nice and restaurants — CA, with Dr. J. Oliver Buswell of home, have the privilege of educat- everywhere he went — New York as President in absentia.” ing our children and enjoying our A property had already been found life to the utmost?” And then he always. He loved nothing and one of Kennedy’s church mem- painted clear contrasts between time more than to present the bers put up the $10,000 down pay- and eternity, with their respective gospel to lost sinners. ment. needs. With the property secured, Kennedy’s messages got quite Yes — in part. But there is more to Kennedy set out on a three-month a bit of local attention. A Herald it than that. We speak most in love visitation of churches and leaders newspaper clip for January 4, 1949, when the motive that prompts us is across the United States He found a quotes Kennedy: “Modern man love, and when the end desired is the less-than-enthusiastic reception. Ken- with all his accessories is no differ- supreme good of the one addressed nedy, however, saw the need and ent from ancient man. He still is be- (and God’s glory).” started the college on September 18, wildered with the past and uncertain Early Bible Presbyterian leader 1950, with three students. By Sep- as to the future.” But perhaps more wrote: “If we un- tember 1952, there were 17 students. reflective of his life emphasis was derstand Truth, we understand it Clyde Kennedy served the first the title of his message at the dedi- does bring forth confrontation — two years as executive vice presi- cation services of the Collingswood loving but true confrontation against dent. Then, a man stepped forward Bible Presbyterian Church in 1957: not only false theology but also to take the presidency. Robert G. Monday evening speaker, Rev. Clyde against the destructive results of the Rayburn had succeeded Kennedy J. Kennedy — “Meeting the Issues of false worldview about us.” Accom- at the Gainesville, TX, Presbyterian the Hour.” modation is usually the fruit of not Church. He had been tried and ex- Kennedy’s emphasis was some- confronting. pelled by the Presbytery for his sin of times dismissed as “lacking in love.” Clyde Kennedy’s close friend, correspondence with Carl McIntire. Of course one could ask, “Love for the father of popular preacher John All at Highland College saw this man whom? Love for Jehovah God in His MacArthur, told Clyde: “If you as the one to guide the new college to holiness?” would just tone down your message, a vibrant testimony for reformation. One of J. Gresham Machen’s you would do much better.” I think From 1952 to 1954, Highland companions, H. McAllister Griffiths, Kennedy felt that the Scriptures were College grew well. September 1953 wrote: “Why then do we present true and his fervent study would saw 40 students, and 60 students the facts concerning Modernism? not let him “tone down” the Bible’s by 1954. But all was not well. Tur- Only because it is our duty. We find message. And, he was an avid stu- moil was swirling across the Bible no happiness in the betrayals of dent of John Knox and the Reform- Presbyterian churches caused by which we must tell. No one in his ers. (Whenever I saw his car trunk many issues, but a central issue was right mind could gloat over them, open, I always saw several volumes the desire to be less outspoken and or be other than sorrowful. But, if of d’Aubigne’s History of the Refor- confrontational in opposing unbelief we love the souls of men we must mation ready for study.) I think he and sin in church and society. The warn them. We must warn a sleeping further knew that the full force of turmoil within the Bible Presbyteri- church, largely uninformed about Scripture must be presented to ac- an church of that day began to bring the nature of its official boards. And complish anything good. great stress into the college, which

4 Redeeming the Time | Fall 2012 www.rttpublications.org climaxed with the March 1, 1955, I was a Highland student from in 1959 when a Communist agent, in acceptance of President Rayburn’s Tacoma, and recall that Brumbaugh the guise of being a clergyman, was resignation. The majority of the stu- had been in frail health for a long invited by the ecumenicals to the dents left with the president. time and the church had declined in United States. It quoted Kennedy as The issues within Highland were several ways. Kennedy came into a stating that it is “morally wrong to basically the same as those abroad in difficult situation and did what need- extend an invitation to the bloody the Bible Presbyterian Church, and ed to be done discipline-wise. This butcher of Hungary. Nothing but Highland was the first casualty of led to some leaving the church. But, harm can come to our nation by wel- the impending division of the Bible by taking decisive action, I believe coming and honoring this interna- Presbyterians into the Collingswood Kennedy actually enabled the church tional Dillinger.” The Los Angeles and Columbus Synods (The Colum- to prosper for yet another day. Mirror headlines read: ”Church Body bus Synod ultimately merged with The Sunday school and youth Scored as Soft Toward Reds,” with a the Presbyterian Church in America, ministries were greatly strengthened lengthy and fair interview of Ken- and those leaving Highland College in number and effectiveness. The founded ). High- summer camps became great teach- To me he was a father in land College continued until 1974, ing times. A new church was started the faith, who showed the when men of lesser vision could no in Seattle mainly through Kennedy’s way to a life of joyful, longer endure the burdens of the efforts. A number of young men work. from the congregation dedicated obedient service in the I entered Highland as a sopho- their lives to Christian ministry dur- great cause of Christ. more in 1956. The emphasis was on ing this period, including my broth- study. Kennedy would say: “Your er, Raymond Carlson. nedy’s condemnation of the National service to Christ while here is to One letter from the Session of and World Councils of Churches. study.” It seemed their idea of edu- the Tacoma Church while Kennedy The International Council of cation was that the student’s mind was pastor is addressed to the State Christian Churches took a consider- was not like a bucket to be filled, Liquor Board when, in 1957, the able part in Dr. Kennedy’s life dur- but like a flame to be ignited. In my State was first attempting to extend ing this phase. He traveled to Aus- three years there, I received a power- the hours of liquor sales and public tralia (1956), South America (1959), ful, consistent, Reformed worldview consumption. The letter says in part: Korea (1959), Taiwan (1961), and — life is a gift of God and we are “We, the Elders of the Tacoma Bible India (1961) to warn Christians of to be good stewards of it by faithful Presbyterian Church stand unalter- the deceptions within the Ecumeni- obedience to all of God’s Word. ably opposed to any sale, or use of cal Movement. The Tacoma Church liquor in any form, in the State of brought one of Kennedy’s protégés, After prayer, I laid down Washington.… We firmly believe Hal Webb, to fill the pulpit when on one of the guestroom that the use of liquor … is detrimen- Kennedy was traveling. The pro- tal both to the health of the individu- digious amount of energy that Dr. beds and fell asleep while al and to his moral condition.” Kennedy expended in these years Kennedy read the Psalms. During his four years at Taco- produced much rich fruit both lo- When I woke up at 5:00 ma, Kennedy was very involved in cally and worldwide. And, more a.m., he was still read- the American Council of Christian importantly, a leader of independent Churches. He served as president thinking brought new balance into ing his beloved Psalter from 1958 to 1961, and hosted the the Bible Presbyterian world. — drinking strength from ACCC national convention in 1959. Shelton College, in New Jersey, those blessed words. He readily worked with other Bible- had for years been functioning with- believing denominations, with his out a resident president. The Board In 1957, Kennedy was elected as motto being: “There is no competi- of Shelton in 1961 issued an invita- moderator of the General Synod of tion in the Lord’s business.” Ralph tion to the “dynamo of the West” to the Bible Presbyterian Church. That Colas wrote afterwards: “The ACCC become Shelton’s President. Kennedy same year, Dr. Roy Talmadge Brum- convention in your church was the accepted and moved onto campus. baugh, the founder-pastor of the BEST.” Kennedy was a reformer, determined Tacoma Bible Presbyterian Church, I remember the great ACCC ral- to perfect what had been started and died and the congregation called lies he organized with dozens of make it a fit residence of King Jesus. Kennedy as their pastor. He minis- churches all along the West Coast. tered there until 1960. The Milwaukee Journal ran an article Continued on page 15 www.rttpublications.org Fall 2012 | Redeeming the Time 5 Faith Presbytery, Bible Presbyterian Church

2*0*1*2 Family Camp

6 Redeeming the Time | Fall 2012 www.rttpublications.org Photos by Jan Coleman and Brad Gsell

www.rttpublications.org Fall 2012 | Redeeming the Time 7 One question we asked him was: “Do you repudiate those key doc- “One Bizzare Question” trines of the Roman Catholic Church which are very different from those upheld by the Protestant Reform- Is King’s College President ers?” We particularly referred to the conflicting views on justification. His Dinesh D’Souza an Evangelical response: “I am most certainly Cath- olic by background and heritage—a or a Roman Catholic? heritage I have never repudiated. I have learned immensely from the by Brad K. Gsell Catholic intellectual tradition and draw on Augustine, Anselm, Aqui- ecently we were questioned the contradictions in what appeared nas, Pascal, etc.” concerning the accuracy on his personal website as opposed Certainly Protestant theologians of our Winter 2011 article to what he wrote on the King’s Col- study and draw from some of these Rentitled: “King’s College lege site. I received a gracious reply in early church leaders as well. Cal- Names Catholic President.” In pro- which he states that he and his family vinists, particularly, appreciate the ducing our documentation, we were have been members of Calvary Chap- able to show that most of our quo- el in San Diego, CA, since 2002. He “My wife is tations were taken directly from the also states that until recently his web- evangelical Christian personal website of Dinesh D’Souza, site was “updated very rarely.” the President of the King’s College. We are glad to report these things, and I have learned a lot Christianity Today also reported but it still leaves one wondering how from the evangelical some of these identical facts in its someone truly leaving Roman Ca- style and also from the October 2010 issue. However, our tholicism for Biblical Christianity idea of a faith integrated reader directed us to an article writ- could allow these things to remain into everyday life.” ten by D’Souza on the Kings College on his website for 10 years after the website, entitled “The Non-Issue.” change — particularly while being a Dinesh D’Souza D’Souza begins this article by world-renowned intellectual, writer, stating: “Amidst my new duties, one and filmmaker, and President of a writings of Augustine on such mat- college begun by evangelical Chris- ters as original sin and predestina- “I am most certainly tians. Also, why would he consider tion. However, these men referred Catholic by background honest questions concerning this to to by D’Souza, particularly Thomas and heritage — a heritage be “bizarre,” when he didn’t remove Aquinas and the scholastics, held to the information that identified him one of the greatest errors still taught I have never repudiated.” as a Catholic from his personal web- by Rome — a wrongful mixing of Dinesh D’Souza site for many months after his “The sanctification with justification (see Non-Issue” article appeared on the Louis Berkhof, Systematic Theol- bizarre question that I’ve had to deal King’s College site? ogy, Grand Rapids: William B. Eerd- with in the blogosphere is the issue The remainder of his reply to mans Publishing Co., 1984, p. 529). of whether I am or am not a Cath- Redeeming the Time shows why Rome teaches the error that we are olic.” He mentioned “attending” there was confusion on this matter “infused” with the sanctifying grace evangelical churches, but there was and why that confusion still exists. of God in our justification and that no mention of membership. He also D’Souza appears to embrace some good works are necessary for our concluded the article by stating that sort of hybrid Catholic/evangelical salvation. the matter of his Catholicism was faith. Although very astute, D’Souza One of the great cries of the Prot- “largely a non-issue,” leaving one to chooses his words carefully, leaving estant Reformation was sola fide — wonder why he felt it necessary to one foot firmly planted in Rome and that we are saved by faith ALONE. qualify the statement with the word one in evangelicalism. The stark dif- The righteousness of Christ is “im- “largely.” ferences between Rome’s theology puted” to us, not “infused” into us. In an attempt to be fair and ac- and that of the Reformation seem to The answer to Westminster Larger curate, I wrote to President D’Souza, create no conflict within him, even Catechism question 70 makes this asking for an explanation concerning intellectually. quite clear: “Justification is an act

8 Redeeming the Time | Fall 2012 www.rttpublications.org of God’s free grace unto sinners, in which He pardoneth all their sins, ac- cepteth and accounteth their persons righteous in His sight; not for any thing wrought in them, or done by them, but only for the perfect obedi- ence and full satisfaction of Christ, by God imputed to them, and received by faith alone.” This doctrine is at the very heart of the Gospel! The next four sentences of D’Souza’s reply are also disturbing. He states: 1. “My wife is evangelical Chris- tian and I have learned a lot from the evangelical style and also from the idea of a faith integrated into eve- ryday life.” Notice that he does not say, “My wife and I are evangelical Christians.…” Neither does he affirm even basic evangelical theology, but rather merely affirms evangelicalism’s “style” and an “integrated” faith. 2. “I also agree that we are saved by faith.” Since our question dealt specifically with the infusion/works/ tradition error of Rome and salvation by faith in Christ ALONE of Protes- tantism, he completely sidesteps the question. What he writes could be stated by every good Catholic and Protestant, but it does not address the fatal errors of Rome. We are glad that in his “The Non-Issue” article he gives credit to the writings of Dr. J. Gres- ham Machen for showing him that rant Bible, yet one can never know many grievous heresies by abandon- salvation is not generically to “save what a man truly believes if he states ing a literal interpretation. Some say mankind,” but that “he [Christ] died that he is not a “Biblical literalist.” Christ’s resurrection should not be to save me.” Yet, one must ask why a The historical-grammatical dis- taken literally, but merely symbol- man of D’Souza’s knowledge and in- cipline of interpreting the Scriptures izes a fresh new beginning. Some say tellectual capabilities carefully avoids teaches that the Bible is to be taken the Creation account should not be giving an answer which would show literally unless there is clear evidence taken literally — that it is just a story where he stands on these vital isssues. from the text that it should be un- and that evolution should be accept- 3. “I have no problem calling my- derstood otherwise. For example, in ed. Some say that the precious Bible self born-again.” Why does he use this Luke 13, when Christ calls Herod doctrines of salvation through faith phraseology? Is it wrong to wonder if a “fox,” it is certainly a figure of alone in Christ are not to be taken there is something which prevents him speech, and not meant to be taken literally, but that we should just see from simply declaring: “I am born literally. However, when the Gos- Christ as a good teacher, whose good again,” and giving some indication of pels record the miracles of Christ, works should be used as our model what he means by those words. the text presents them as historical in life. 4. “I am not a Biblical literalist accounts, and they should be taken Be assured that we are NOT at- but I do believe the Bible is inspired literally. tributing these things to Dr. D’Souza. and inerrant.” It is good that he de- Through the centuries, men have clares his belief in an inspired, iner- taken the Scriptures and devised Continued on page 10 www.rttpublications.org Fall 2012 | Redeeming the Time 9 “One Bizzare Question” DISCERNING THE DIFFERENCE: Continued from page 10

However, one must certainly be con- cerned as to what things in the Bible Roman Catholicism and a man does not believe when he feels compelled to state that “I am not a Biblical literalist.” Biblical Christianity D’Souza concludes his letter by stating, “Certainly my apologetics are non-denominational in the C.S. by Mark W. Evans Lewis style of ‘Mere Christianity.’” Anyone reading Mere Christian- octrinal compromise has pro- It was the Word of God that ity and other writings of C.S. Lewis duced a spiritual declension brought the Reformation of the six- knows that Lewis denied the com- in our country that threatens teenth century. Martin Luther, while plete inspiration and inerrancy of the Dthe foundations of society. a student at the University of Erfurt Scriptures; he believed that, though Our politicians have learned from the in Germany, stumbled upon a copy salvation is through Christ, those preachers. Nearly a hundred years of the Latin Bible in the school’s li- who do not know Him can still be have passed since liberals took over brary. He opened it and learned that saved; and that there is saving merit the major denominations. Compro- Roman clergy had taught only a in participating in the sacraments. mising evangelicals enabled them to small portion of the Word of God. We attempt to be fair and ac- accomplish their goal. Without their Later, after he became an Augus- curate. However, we remain very vote, the liberals would have failed. tinian monk, he read and pondered concerned that the foundations are Now that the harvest of false doctrine the sacred writings from a chained and practice is unmistakable, many Bible in his monastery’s chapel. His What our fathers saw as are leaving their denominations. It heart longed for peace with God. fatal heresies in the Church would be glorious if they would open Although he studied the Scrip- their Bibles afresh, study the Scrip- tures, even to the point of learning of Rome are now being tures, and learn by God’s grace of the the languages of Hebrew and Greek, accepted or tolerated. fullness and blessing of its pure teach- he strictly followed Rome’s teach- ings and holy practices. Jesus Christ ings. He fasted, whipped himself, being destroyed in many Christian is still the Head of His Church, and and endured other privations to institutions in our country. What He is in the midst of His people. atone for his sins. His works failed, our fathers saw as fatal heresies in Spiritual darkness has descended but the Lord began to open his eyes. the Church of Rome are now be- upon the world before. It was even ing accepted or tolerated. The pre- darker in the 1500’s. Kings and great I cannot submit my faith cious Biblical truths, for which godly nations quaked before the tyranny either to the pope or to saints suffered torture and death in of Rome. Christ still had a remnant the centuries surrounding the Prot- of His people, but they were few in the councils, because it estant Reformation, are now being number. Who would think that this is clear as day they have portrayed as simply unimportant, colossal structure of religious and civ- frequently erred and or barely distinguishable from the il tyranny would crumble before the contradicted each other.” doctrines held by the torturers. May preaching of the Word of God? Mul- we continue ever faithful in our in- titudes were delivered from Rome’s Martin Luther sistence on the cry of the Reform- grasp, including many whose descen- ers: Sola Scriptura, Sola Fide, Sola dants populated the American colo- John Staupitz, Vicar-General of Gratia, Solo Christo, and Soli Deo nies. Sadly, our present spiritual con- the Augustinians of Germany, told Gloria!* • dition portends another Dark Age, if him, “Look at the blood Christ shed the Lord tarries. One of the symptoms for you.… It is there the grace of *Scripture alone, faith alone, grace alone, is that there are many who cannot dis- God will appear to you”1 An “old through Christ alone, and to the glory of cern the difference between Biblical monk” exhorted him, “You are to God alone. Christianity and Roman Catholicism. believe not merely in the forgiveness

10 Redeeming the Time | Fall 2012 www.rttpublications.org of David’s sins, and of Peter’s sins; blemen, and representatives from I can do no other. May God help me. you must believe in the forgiveness the Roman Catholic Church. His Amen.”4 of your own sins.”2 books were piled before him and he The Lord was pleased to pre- Through Staupitz’s intervention, was required to retract what he had serve Luther and to raise up Reform- Frederick, the Elector of Saxony, written, including the teaching of ers throughout Europe, including appointed Luther a teacher at the God’s Word and and the exposure England and Scotland. They stud- University of Wittenberg. He soon of Rome’s errors. After a set time became a professor of theology, and given for him to prepare an answer, Continued on page 14 lectured on the Epistle to the Ro- the monk stood before the assembly mans. of some 204 great ones of the earth In God’s providence, the young and brought them before the judg- Unbiblical Ecumenism scholar was sent to Rome to seek ment seat of the Lord. After Luther At Wheaton College a resolution to a dispute among finished his address, the spokesman Continued from page 1 Augustinian monasteries. While in for the assembly, “with a fretted air Rome, he witnessed immorality and and in peevish tones,” said to Luther, blasphemies of priests. In spite of “You have not answered the question Mission” (see reproduction of poster what he saw, he persisted in seeking put to you. We did not call you here on page 1). The event was conduct- spiritual help through the rituals and ed by Act 3, an organization led by superstitions of Rome. He climbed The fatal argument against Wheaton Adjunct Professor John H. the stairs of the Church of the Lat- Rome’s boast is that while Armstrong, who is a minister in the Reformed Church in America (a de- eran on his knees, thinking that each she claims the Bible to step would relieve him of one year nomination in the apostate National of purgatory. As he ascended, the be the infallible rule, the Council of Churches). words of Romans 1:17 spoke to his Scriptures do not give her Armstrong, writing on the ACT heart, “The just shall live by faith.” the authority to be the only 3 website on the day of the event, He arose from his knees, knowing interpreter.… The Roman states: “… Pray for Cardinal George that salvation is not by works, but by and me. We want to exalt Christ in faith alone in the Lord Jesus Christ. Catholic Church can find this event. And pray for ACT 3 as Shortly after his return to the no Scriptural authority for we seek to build bridges for unity University of Wittenberg, Martin many of her dogmas. among all Christians everywhere. Luther received the degree of Doc- I believe the Lord Jesus is pleased tor of Divinity. God prepared him to bring into question the authority when his people converse with one to stand against Rome’s fraud of of Councils; there can be no dispute another in love.” selling indulgences for spiritual ben- on that point here. We demand a di- Catholic/Orthodox Entanglements efits. The pope’s agent, John Tetzel, rect and precise answer: Will you, or at Wheaton arrived in the area offering — for a will you not retract?”3 price — pope-certified indulgences Luther uttered words that Wheaton also has a Student Ecu- for the forgiveness of sin and the relief opened the door to the Reformation: menical Society. The official College of loved ones suffering in purgatory. “Since your most Serene Majesty, website describes the Society’s pur- Luther wrote his “Ninety-five Theses” and your High Mightiness, require pose as: “To promote unity with the and nailed them to the Castle Church from me a direct and precise answer, Catholic Church and the Orthodox door. It drew a crowd. Soon the docu- I will give you one, and it is this. I Church. This is done through dia- ment was reprinted by the Guttenberg cannot submit my faith either to the logue and relationship building.” press and spread throughout Europe pope or to the councils, because it WETN, the college radio station — even to Rome. Although Luther is clear as day they have frequently offers videos of speeches delivered was still clinging to some of Rome’s erred and contradicted each other. by Greek Orthodox and Roman errors, the “Theses” challenged the Unless, therefore, I am convinced Catholic priests who have spoken pope’s claim to forgive sins. The au- by the testimony of Scripture, or on under the auspices of Wheaton’s thority of the Scriptures was lifted plain and clear grounds of reason, Institute of Early Christian Stud- above the authority of the pope. so that conscience shall bind me to ies, and it also had a live feed of the In 1521, Luther was summoned make acknowledgment of error, I “Conversation on Unity in Christ’s to appear before the Diet of Worms can and will not retract, for it is nei- Mission.” — to stand before the Emperor of ther safe nor wise to do anything Continued on page 12 Germany (Charles V), princes, no- contrary to conscience. Here I stand. www.rttpublications.org Fall 2012 | Redeeming the Time 11 Special Interest Clubs | Wheaton 8/11/12 11:47 PM (Reproduced from the official Wheaton College website)

Student Ecumenical Society Certainly President Bus- To promote unity with the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church. This is done through dialogue and relationship well would never have al- building. lowed these things to have taken place on his watch. He President: Caleb Burr, [email protected] writes in his Systematic The- Advisor: David Lauber Unbiblical Ecumenism in and refuses to condemn. Buswell ology (Part II, page 239): “Any false Wheaton Board Gaming Society then joined the Chicago Presbytery doctrine which amounts to the denial Meet Anewt people W andheat enjoy ofellowhipn C throughollege gaming. Eachof meeting what willis featurenow the a different OPC, game and allowing was membersof salvation to through the blood of learn Continuednew games or fromengage page in playing 11 old favorites. elected Moderator of the OPC’s Sec- Christ, is a form of idolatry. ‘Mod-

President: Ian Campbell, [email protected] General Assembly. ernism’ is not a form of Christianity, Advisor:No Markone Thorne denies that this slide However, in two short years, it is another religion; it is idolatry.” from Biblical obedience is taking trouble was brewing, and Buswell Concerning the sacraments, he writes: Wheatonplace. CollegeProfessor Entrepreneurship Armstrong writes Clubleft the OPC to help found the Bible “‘You cannot eat from the table of To learnon morehis aboutpersonal owning blog: and/or “When starting aI business.was Presbyterian Church. He and the the Lord and the table of demons.’ a student at Wheaton College (1969- Chicago Presbytery were much op- The two cannot be commingled. If it President: Derek Babb, [email protected] Advisor:71) the Stephenidea of Bretsen a student ecumenical posed to the OPC’s allowance of is the table of false religion it is not society would have never crossed “beverage alcohol” and the other the Lord’s table.” Buswell certainly Theour Wheaton collective College minds. Tolkien Times Societyhave issues which had caused the divi- considered liberal Protestantism, Ro- To bringchanged.…” together Wheaton He condemnsCollege faculty, the staff, “big and- studentssion. to enjoy,Dr. Buswell discuss, and wrote have activitiesto Harold relating S. to theman life andCatholicism and Eastern Ortho- worksotry” of J.R.R. against Tolkien. CatholicsMore > he suppos- Laird, second president of The Inde- doxy to be “false religions.” edly was taught growing up, and pendent Board for Presbyterian For- President: David Querfeld, [email protected] A Need to Stand Fast for describes the visit to Wheaton by stu- eign Missions on January 30, 1937: Staff Advisor: Laura Schmidt the Word of God dents from Franciscan University, a “I wish that parting of the ways WheatonCatholic College college, Swing to interact Club with the might be prevented. I do not believe Many seem to be silent about To fosterWheaton community students. and a love Concerning of swing dancing these through lessonsGod willand dancing. bless a drinking, worldly such things taking place in the evan-

President:meetings, Rebecca Armstrong Russ, [email protected] writes: “some ministry.” gelical world. Thankfully, such orga- Advisor:[Wheaton Kevin and Sheehan Franciscan students] Buswell was the “convener” of nizations as the American Council of have become fellow travelers on the the First Synod of the Bible Presby- Christian Churches remain faithful in Wheatonroad to College missional-ecumenism.” Republicans terian Church in 1938. His dismissal their obedience to the Word of God To promote the agenda and interests of the Republican Party.from the presidency of Wheaton by and sound doctrine. A recent resolu- Wheaton President the Board of Trustees, a couple of tion passed by the Executive Com- President:J. Oliver Matthew Buswell Arildsen, and [email protected] years later, is often said to be because mittee of the American Council of Advisor:Bible Presbyterian Amy Black Church of Buswell’s “staunch Calvinism,” Christian Churches states: “Wheaton A recent report on the website of and “fundamentalist separatism” College, near Chicago, has continued the Orthodox Presbyterian Church (see George Marsden, Reforming its long track record of violating the (OPC) states: “Wheaton College Fundamentalism, p. 45). biblical doctrine of separation.… An even has a connection to OPC his- early supporter of the compromise tory. J. Oliver Buswell was the third “We rebuke Wheaton of New Evangelicalism, Wheaton president of the school from 1924 to College has kept its distance from 1940. Buswell was also a founding College, including its biblically separatist fundamental- member of The Independent Board president, Dr. Philip ism.” The resolution concludes: “We for Presbyterian Foreign Missions Ryken, for allowing its rebuke Wheaton College, including and one of the original ministers of facilities to be used to its president, Dr. Philip Ryken, for al- the Presbyterian Church of America, promote false ecumenism, lowing its facilities to be used to pro- later the OPC. Buswell left the OPC mote false ecumenism, and we call on as a part of the division of 1937.” and we call on the Lord’s the Lord’s people to maintain their Dr. Buswell, while serving as people to maintain their defense of the faith and the gospel.… Wheaton’s president, was put on trial defense of the faith In addition, we renew our resolve by the Presbytery of Chicago of the and the gospel.…” to be faithful separatists, guarding PCUSA, for refusing to resign from ourselves from entanglements with The Independent Board for Presby- From Resolution passed by the those who cause doubt and confu- terian Foreign Missions. He refused Executive Committee of the sion regarding the command of the to tolerate in any way the very apos- American Council of apostles to take a stand against false tasy that Wheaton now participates Christian Churches, April 2012 apostles.” • http://www.wheaton.edu/Student-Life/Activities/Clubs/Special-Interest Page 2 of 2

12 Redeeming the Time | Fall 2012 www.rttpublications.org the same platform with a man such as Dr. Ryken. OPC General Assembly In 1996, in keeping with the Biblical stand which brought it into at Wheaton College being, the Bible Presbyterian Synod voted by a sizeable majority to com- n June 2012, the Orthodox Pres- speaker at the OPC deacons’ “Sum- municate the following to the OPC byterian Church (OPC) held its mit” held concurrently with the General Assembly: “… there are ma- annual General Assembly at OPC General Assembly. Dr. Ryken jor obstacles to our entering into this Wheaton College, in Wheaton, also spoke to the OPC General As- formal relationship [ecclesiastical re- IIllinois. Although the choice of a sembly as the official “fraternal del- lations with the OPC], which are the meeting place does not necessitate egate” from the Presbyterian Church OPC’s fraternal relations with the agreement with the institution own- in America (PCA). Presbyterian Church in America and ing the facilities, the report of the Neither the website report nor the Reformed Presbyterian Church events on the OPC website shows that New Horizons (official magazine of of North America, which are mem- the OPC) mentions that Ryken pre- bers of the National Association of Undoubtedly, most sides over an institution which has Evangelicals (NAE), and its [OPC’s] in the OPC would say abandoned its previous stand against understanding of ecumenicity which false teachers, and now promotes allows it to enter into these rela- they oppose such ecumenism with Roman Catholi- tions.” ecumenical relations, yet cism and Eastern Orthodoxy (see Obviously the “major obstacles” they allow themselves to “Unbiblical Ecumenism at Wheaton are no more. We praise the Lord that be entangled with those College” on page 1 of this issue of Faith Presbytery, Bible Presbyterian Redeeming the Time). Undoubtedly, Church, has chosen to remain faith- who do sanction and most in the OPC would say they op- ful to the Biblical principles which allow these things to go pose such ecumenical relations, yet motivated the founders of the Bible on under their watch. they allow themselves to be entan- Presbyterian Church. • gled with those who the choice was considered more than do sanction and allow Reproduced from New Horizons, August/September 2012, the mere renting of meeting space. A these things to go on official magazine of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church brief history of the school was given, under their watch. including the names of Billy Graham, It was indeed sad Carl F.H. Henry, John Piper, and a to see from the report few other noted graduates. The re- that the very next per- port also mentions Wheaton’s earlier son introduced follow- heritage: “Wheaton College even has ing Dr. Ryken was Dr. a connection to OPC history. J. Oli- Kevin Backus, “frater- ver Buswell was the third president nal delegate” from the of the school from 1924 to 1940.…” Bible Presbyterian Syn- Buswell was the Moderator of the od. The Bible Presbyte- Second General Assembly of the rian Synod did not have OPC (called the Presbyterian Church fraternal relations (the of America, at that time), and a technical name is Cor- founder of the Bible Presbyterian responding Relations) Church. The report gives no indica- with the OPC until re- tion that Wheaton has gone far cent years for very down the road of compromise since good reasons. Not long Dr. Buswell was president. A reader ago, the Bible Presby- would draw no other conclusion terian Synod warned than that the OPC thinks favorably against such things, and of Wheaton College. openly exposed the com- This is particularly so, since promise in the PCA. Wheaton’s President, Dr. Philip Now, the Synod’s rep- Ryken, was chosen as the keynote resentative speaks on

www.rttpublications.org Fall 2012 | Redeeming the Time 13 Discerning the turned to the Apostolic Church of from the mediation of any priest the Bible. Protestants believed that or other human intermediary. Difference … God’s Word is the only rule of faith 4. Individual freedom of conscience Continued from page 11 and practice. Loraine Boettner, in his and worship, within the authority book, Roman Catholicism, lists the of the Bible.5 ied the Scriptures and arrived at the “basic features” of Protestantism: Although Rome professes to same convictions. Soon the Bible 1. The supremacy of the Bible in all hold the Bible as her authority, she was translated into the spoken lan- matters of faith and practice. also declares that tradition, councils, guage of the people. Multitudes re- 2. Justification by faith, not by and the pope speaking ex cathedra jected Rome’s mediators and went works, although works have their (with the full authority of the office), to the “one Mediator between God necessary and logical place as the are infallible and authoritative. She and men, the man Christ Jesus” fruits and proof of true faith. contends that the “Church” is the (1 Timothy 2:5). The Reformation 3. The right of the individual to go only authoritative interpreter of the did not create a new church, but re- directly to God in prayer apart Bible. The fatal argument against Rome’s boast is that while she claims the Bible to be the infallible rule, the Scriptures do not give her the authority to be the only interpreter. Neither does the Bible combine or yield its authority to tradition, coun- cils, or the voice of the pope speak- ing ex cathedra. Instead, the Bible teaches that God alone is the Lord of the conscience. The Scriptures are open to all. With prayerful, humble study, a believer has the assurance of perceiving “those things which are necessary to be known, believed, and observed, for salvation”6 (see Colos- sians 4:16; Isaiah 8:20; Acts 17:11; Deuteronomy 4:1,2; John 20:30,31; 1 Corinthians 15:1,2; 2 Timothy 3:15,16; and Revelation 22:18).7 The Roman Catholic Church can find no Scriptural authority for many of her dogmas. For example, the Bible does not warrant: 1. The offices of pope, cardinal, archbishop, bishop (cf. Rome’s view of apostolic succession), monk, nun, or priest; 2. veneration of angels and dead saints; 3. the mass (transubstantia- tion, and sacrifice of Christ); 4. ex- Gospel Outreach in Chile treme unction; 5. purgatory; 6. pray- ing to Mary, dead saints, angels; In July 2012, a team traveled to Arica, Chile, under the Student Overseas Mis- 7. holy water; 8. canonization of dead saints; 9. celibacy of priest- sionary Endeavor (SOME) program of The Independent Board for Presbyterian hood; 10. rosary; 11. inquisition; Foreign Missions. The three young ladies were accompanied by veteran mis- 12. indulgences; 13. auricular confes- sionaries Gary and Pat Johnson, and worked with national church leaders and sion; 14. immaculate conception of IBPFM missionaries. They were involved with conducting a Christian youth Mary; 15. infallibility of the pope; camp, handing out tracts and witnessing, distributing gospel CDs to school 16. assumption of Mary.8 children and in helping to do physical improvements to one of the church prop- Martin Luther gave this confes- erties in Arica. sion against all who compromise the

14 Redeeming the Time | Fall 2012 www.rttpublications.org true Gospel revealed in the Word of (Edward Stillingfleet), Edinburgh: John purity, he must be enrolled as one of God: “I, Doctor Martin Luther, un- Johnstone, 1865), p. 180. the church’s greats. Princeton Semi- 8 worthy herald of the Gospel of our Ibid., pp. 7-9. nary’s library holds over 700 docu- 9 Lord Jesus Christ, confess this arti- Wylie, p. 255. ments related to his life and ministry, cle, that faith alone without works a poor sampling compared to heav- justifies before God; and I declare en’s Book of Remembrance. To me, he that it shall stand and remain for Kennedy … was a father in the faith, who showed ever, in despite of the Emperor of the Continued from page 5 the way to a life of joyful, obedient Romans, the Emperor of the Turks, service in the great cause of Christ. • the Emperor of the Tartars, the Em- Many on the Board wanted change, peror of the Persians; in spite of the but were hesitant, fearing its price. pope and all the cardinals, with the I was a student at Faith Semi- Godly Contentment … bishops, priests, monks, and nuns; in nary when he first arrived at Shelton. Continued from page 1 spite of kings, princes, and nobles; I remember his coming to Faith for and in spite of all the world, and of some meetings. Afterwards, he said As Christians and good citizens, the devils themselves; and that if they to me, “I don’t want to be alone to- we should bring Biblical principles endeavor to fight against this truth night. Join me in prayer.” to bear on ALL areas of life, includ- they will draw the fires of hell upon After prayer, I laid down on one ing politics. The views of the major their own heads. This is the true and of the guestroom beds and fell asleep parties have often been twisted by holy Gospel, and the declaration while Kennedy read the Psalms. the blindness and sinfulness of men’s of me, Doctor Martin Luther, ac- When I woke up at 5:00 a.m., he hearts, apart from Christ. This be- cording to the teaching of the Holy was still reading his beloved Psal- hooves us to stand against the pre- Ghost. We hold fast to it in the name ter — drinking strength from those vailing philosophy that “The Gov- of God. Amen.”9 • blessed words. ernment is my shepherd. I shall not ______In the coming months, Kennedy want.” Conversely, each of us as in- 1J.A. Wylie, The History of Protestant- began to have trouble speaking dividuals must stand for true Biblical ism (London: Cassell and Co., n.d.), vol. I, clearly to explain what he was do- justice and compassion. These are pp. 239,240. ing and why. Only after his rather not contradictory or mutually exclu- 2 Ibid., p. 241. abrupt replacement as President of sive propositions. 3Ibid., p. 344. The Founders of our country en- 4 Shelton College was he diagnosed Ibid. with extensive brain cancer. He was shrined the principles in our Declara- 5Loraine Boettner, Roman Catholi- soon called to heaven on September tion of Independence that “all men cism (Philadelphia: The Presbyterian and are created equal, that they are en- Reformed publishing Co., 1964), p. 2. 22, 1962, to give answer to his Com- dowed by their Creator with certain 6Westminster Confession of Faith, I:7. mander Jesus. 7William Cunningham, The Doc- What was the significance of unalienable Rights, that among these trines and Practices of the Church of Rome Clyde Kennedy’s brief 55-year life? are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of If one measures a man by the length Happiness.” Many in government of his shadow, then Kennedy’s sig- today have turned from protecting nificance was great. For the many of these liberties and instead are usurp- Editor: Brad K. Gsell us who were called to Gospel service ing the authority which belongs to Associate Editor: Mark W. Evans under his preaching — Lynn Gray God alone. They think that govern- Gordon, Robert Dickerson, Rob- ment can create and guarantee “hap- Redeeming the Time is a quarterly ert Kofahl, Harold Webb, Barbara piness” by doling out assistance to publication with the purpose of encour- millions and controlling more and aging God’s people and applying God’s Hanlin, Earl Ross, Howard Carlson, more aspects of our lives. Word to the issues of our day. Raymond Carlson, Dennis Leaman, Individual copies are distributed and a host of others — his signifi- Our Founders believed that we free of charge, but the generous dona- cance was truly great. have the right to PURSUE our own tions of God’s people are necessary for For the thousands who were de- happiness. But this pursuit is not just this ministry to continue. Checks may livered from the ecumenical errors, a selfish running after excess and be made payable to “Redeeming the and the multitude delivered from sin pleasure. The only true happiness Time,” and mailed to: P.O. Box 26281, unto salvation by his ministry, Dr. comes by obeying and serving God. Charlotte, NC 28221-6281. All dona- Kennedy was truly great. But for Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians tions are tax deductible. Sponsored by Publication Fund • Bible Presbyterian Church • Charlotte, NC his simple child-like obedience to the Word of God and insistence on Continued on page 16 www.rttpublications.org Fall 2012 | Redeeming the Time 15 Godly Contentment … 2. Be genuinely satisfied with needs of others ahead of their own what the Lord has given you. “For interests. Of course, Dr. Hall never Continued from page 15 I have learned, in whatsoever state I mentioned this generosity to anyone. am, therewith to be content. I know He and Mrs. Hall never had much 6:19-20: “What? know ye not that both how to be abased, and I know in the way of material goods in this your body is the temple of the Holy how to abound: every where and in all life, but they were both truly happy Ghost which is in you, which ye have things I am instructed both to be full people. Their satisfaction was found and to be hungry, both to abound and in their love and service to Christ Our Founders believed to suffer need” (Philippians 4:11,12). and in helping others. that we have the right to 3. Do not covet the things which Give to those who are in finan- those better off than you may have. cial trouble. Say a kind word of en- PURSUE our own When I was a child, we were taught couragement to those who are dis- happiness. But this to respect any man who worked dili- couraged. Stand up for the rights of pursuit is not just a selfish gently — whether he were rich or those who are weak. Be a voice in running after excess and poor. We were strictly taught that it defense of those who are experienc- pleasure. The only true was wrong to think that anyone was ing true injustice. “beneath” us, or to think ill of the at- 5. Be a faithful witness to the happiness comes by torney, doctor or CEO of a company Gospel of Christ. This is the only obeying and serving God. who had much more than our family solution to the problems of man- possessed. The “class warfare” seen kind — both in this world and for all of God, and ye are not your own? in today’s political climate is for the eternity. James 5:20 says: “Let him For ye are bought with a price: there- most part either the result of pride or know, that he which converteth the fore glorify God in your body, and in a plain violation of the Tenth Com- sinner from the error of his way shall your spirit, which are God’s.” mandment: “Thou shalt not covet save a soul from death, and shall We also are to stand for “liberty thy neighbour’s house, thou shalt hide a multitude of sins.” and justice for ALL,” not just selfish not covet thy neighbour’s wife, nor As long as the American people greed. Micah 6:8 tells us: “He hath his manservant, nor his maidservant, increasingly turn their backs on the shewed thee, O man, what is good; nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing Lord, and “lean” on their “own un- and what doth the Lord require of that is thy neighbour’s.” derstanding,” we will see precious thee, but to do justly, and to love 4. Be personally generous in mercy, and to walk humbly with helping those in need. Although we Dr. and Mrs. Hall never thy God?” As Christians, we are to deplore Big Government’s attempts had much in the way of “Look not every man on his own to “redistribute wealth,” all Chris- things, but every man also on the tians should personally seek to help material goods in this things of others” (Philippians 2:4). their friends and neighbors. As the life, but they were both While upholding and defending gospel song states: “Help somebody truly happy people. our American freedoms, Christians today, somebody along life’s way. Let Their satisfaction was must be careful to live according to sorrow be ended, the friendless be- God’s Word. The following are some friended, O help somebody today.” found in their love and principles that should characterize I remember one day visiting a service to Christ and our lives: man who had been attending our in helping others. 1. Above all, be genuinely grate- church. He had fallen on hard times. ful for the many blessings bestowed When I started to question him about freedoms erode, turmoil and greed upon us by God. Evangelist Bob his needs, tears streamed down his abound, and the blessing and protec- Jones, Sr., is often quoted as saying: face. He told me that Dr. Victor tion of Almighty God decrease. Only “When gratitude dies on the altar of Hall, founder of the Bible Presbyte- a true SPIRITUAL revival can save a man’s heart, that man is well-nigh rian Church of Charlotte, had been America from decline and sorrow. hopeless.” May we every day enthu- to his house a few days earlier and “If my people, which are called siastically follow the counsel of the had paid his electric bill, as his pow- by my name, shall humble them- Psalmist: “Be thankful unto him, and er was in danger of being cut off. He selves, and pray, and seek my face, bless his name. For the Lord is good; couldn’t understand how someone and turn from their wicked ways; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth could be so kind to him. I happened then will I hear from heaven, and endureth to all generations” (Psalm to know that the Halls had very little will forgive their sin, and will heal 100:4,5). money themselves, but they put the their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14). •

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