“…John, who bare record of the word of God, and of TheThe TestimonyTestimony

…of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw…Blessed is he that readeth…” Revelation 1:1-3 Verse Of The Month “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4 Vol. VII October, 2016 No. 10

IT’S IN THE VALLEYS I GROW Author unknown

Sometimes life seems so hard to bear, full of sorrow, trouble and woe, It’s then I have to remember that it’s in the valleys I grow.

If I always stayed on the mountain top and never experienced pain, I would never appreciate God’s love and I would be living in vain.

I have so much to learn, and my growth is very slow, Sometimes I need the mountain tops, but it’s in the valleys I grow.

I do not always understand why things happen as they do, But I am very sure of one thing: my Lord will see me through.

My little valleys are nothing when I picture Christ on the cross He went through the valley of death; His victory was Satan’s loss.

Forgive me Lord, for complaining when I’m feeling so very low. Just give me a gentle reminder that it’s in the valleys I grow.

Continue to strengthen me, Lord and use my life each day To share your love with others and help them find their way.

Thank you for the valleys, Lord for this one thing I know, The mountain tops are glorious, but it’s in the valleys I grow!

Selected by Barbara Stoner

The Testimony

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SET YOUR HOPE ON THINGS ETERNAL 3 Editorial

SET YOUR HOPE ON billion.” Beyond the “observable THINGS ETERNAL universe” lies a vastness unknown and unimaginable to man. In Isaiah 57:15 we read of “… Scientists advance the hypothe- the high and lofty One that in- sis that this Galaxy, itself, travel- habiteth eternity whose name is ling though space at tremendous Holy…” the only place the word speed, will “soon” collide with its “eternity” appears in the King nearest neighboring galaxy de- James Version. As for eternity stroying all in a final ball of fire. past, we have no idea what occu- Maybe so. Scripture and scientists pied God’s “time” before that first agree on two things. Sometime, week of creation. We do not need somehow this universe had a be- to know the details of eternity past ginning. Sometime, somehow it except that He was there. Eternity will have an end. future is of infinite importance to “Is there purpose to the uni- everyone living in time. verse?” “What is the purpose to God, who inhabits eternity, pays meticulous attention to each frac- life?” To those who believe in God, tion of a second of time. Recently, life certainly has purpose. Life is the news reported of NASA send- all about the eternal plan of God ing a satellite to the planet Jupi- and nothing else. Some believe ter, a journey of 1.8 billion miles. that God does not exist. As to The launch was August 5, 2011 whether men believe in a purpose, arriving at its destination nearly it makes little difference to God’s five years later—within a minute plan. Either way, every man be- of schedule. A technique was used lieves something. Either way, in which the gravity of Earth God’s eternity moves on in its un- served to hurl, slingshot wise, this disturbed affairs. satellite to speeds approaching Strange, isn’t it that NASA’s 165,000 miles per hour. That is interplanetary explorer, after trav- equal to travelling from Washing- elling so far, so long, could arrive ton D. C. to San Francisco in one within one minute of programmed second. As outlandish as this may time—God’s time, while at the seem, it is small by comparison. same time governments are at The Milky Way Galaxy, containing war, churches in unrest, mar- our sun and more than a billion riages and families broken, and other stars, is said to be 100,000 one’s personal peace is disturbed. light years across, the distance Paul in Titus 1:2 wrote of the travelled by light in 100,000 years “…hope of eternal life, which God, at a speed of 186,000 miles per that cannot lie, promised before second—equal to circling the the world began…” I wish I knew Earth’s equator 7.5 times per sec- what God was doing before the ond. Yet the Milky Way Galaxy is worlds began. But I know that He small by comparison. Scientists was there. So I know that I can set say “the number of galaxies can- my hope on things eternal! not be counted—the observable universe alone may contain 100 Marcus Miller 4 The Testimony October, 2016 General

DECLARED RIGHTEOUS they are. But it is very possible to tell them the untruth concerning We have probably all heard or God’s holiness, righteousness, and said at some time or another, godliness. If we tell them that sal- “Now if you are not a better boy or vation depends upon their good- girl, you will not get to go to ness, we are telling them the un- Heaven.” I remember one time as truth. In Luke 11:11–13 we read, a child making an ugly face in the “If a son shall ask bread of any of mirror and then wondering if I had you that is a father, will he give made Jesus feel bad. I also ques- him a stone? or if he ask a fish, tioned whether my behavior would will he for a fish give him a ser- keep me out of Heaven. When I pent? Or if he shall ask an egg, was in the third grade, I had a will he offer him a scorpion? If ye book with animal illustrations, in then, being evil, know how to give which one tried to push the other good gifts unto your children: how off a high cliff. One night I much more shall your heavenly dreamed that one of these charac- Father give the Holy Spirit to ters was trying to push me off that them that ask Him?” high cliff. Upon awaking, in my In our love for our children, we fear and desperation I pled with want them instructed in the truth. God that if He would never let me And likewise, God wants them in• dream that frightening experience structed in the truth of His Word again, I would never again read and how they will receive salva- that book. The dream never re- tion for their souls. turned, and I thank Him for it. Because of the fall of Adam, “sin Each year many children return to school to further their educa- entered into the world, and death tion. This brings us back to the by sin; and so death passed upon thought of telling our children all men, for that all have sinned.” that they will not get to go to Man desperately needs to be for- Heaven unless they are good. We given, cleansed, and restored to want them to be good, obedient God’s favor. Thus the human fam- children, but we must also tell ily has been given the plan of re- them that mere goodness will not demption. We read in Romans merit Heaven. What if the teacher 3:22–26 of “…the righteousness of would tell our children that 2 plus God which is by faith of Jesus 2 equals 5, or that the word of is Christ unto all and upon all them spelled uu, or that 47 degrees con- that believe: for there is no differ- stitutes a right angle? These state- ence: for all have sinned, and come ments are not true, and we would short of the glory of God; Being not try to infer to our children that justified freely by his grace DECLARED RIGHTEOUS 5 through the redemption that is in Romans 5:1 we read, “Therefore Christ Jesus: whom God hath set being justified by faith, we have forth to be a propitiation through peace with God through our Lord faith in his blood, to declare his Jesus Christ.” Think of it, because righteousness for the remission of of our faith in Christ and the sins that are past, through the promises of God, who will not tell forbearance of God…that he might the untruth, we can be declared be just, and the justifier of him righteous, and holy, and godly. which believeth in Jesus.” Our position is perfect before God as He looks at us through His Son. There is a fountain filled with blood, This does not mean that He can- Drawn from Immanuel’s veins; not see our sin. Neither does it And sinners plunged beneath that flood, mean that sin that is continued in Lose all their guilty stains. cannot separate us from God. But Our children can be good and it does mean that He accepts us as obedient, but still the stain of sin His children, and we are made remains. And as they reach the complete in Him. age of accountability, they will When we as believers are ac- have guilt. They will be burdened cepted through the Lord Jesus, we until they come to Calvary. No are not released to do as we matter what the crime, the depth please. Rather, we are released of shame, or how ugly the sin, unto a life of continued obedience. there can be deliverance through Before, it was impossible to be the blood of Christ that will satisfy obedient to the Word of God. But for time and eternity. Nothing will now we can experience a holy life, satisfy God but the blood of Jesus Jesus Christ Himself, “who is our Christ Himself. When we embrace life” (Col. 3), living His life the crucified, risen Lord, and have through us. Since He is our life, our sins forgiven, we are declared we should tell our children the righteous by God Himself. “For truth pertaining to the salvation of he hath made him to be sin for their souls. I have seen believers us, who knew no sin; that we agonize for most of their lives, not might be made the righteous- really knowing the peace of God. ness of God in him.” (II Cor. 5:21) Perhaps one reason is because we We are inserting a few verses do not discuss this subject often from God’s Holy Word that explain enough. Let us reason together, so well the subject at hand. Let us and may the wonderful truth of take our time and study them being declared righteous become carefully, that we might receive more real in our lives. their real meaning. Psalm 40:2 A lot could be written on this says, “He brought me up also out marvelous truth God has man- of an horrible pit, out of the miry dated through His Son Jesus clay, and set my feet upon a rock, Christ, who paid the price at Cal- and established my goings.” In vary that we deserved to pay. The 6 The Testimony October, 2016 book of Romans has much to say Christ Jesus.” Verses 19–22 de- on this declaration. Our children scribe the Church, which is made should be instructed that their up of the people who have been salvation depends on the goodness declared righteous. “Now therefore of God through His Son, and we ye are no more strangers and for- should tell them the truth on this eigners, but fellow citizens with vital subject. When we witness a the saints, and of the household of baptismal scene, and see the peace God; And are built upon the foun• of God so evident in the very being dation of the apostles and proph- of “one of these little ones,” we ets, Jesus Christ himself being the know that the goodness of God has chief cornerstone; In whom all the led another sinner to repentance. building fitly framed together The book of Ephesians is one groweth unto an holy temple in that so vividly portrays this doc- the Lord: In whom ye also are trine. The first three chapters set builded together for an habitation forth the riches of divine grace, of God through the Spirit.” Chap- and what God has done and will ter 3 reveals how the Holy Spirit do for us. Please take time to read dwells in both Jew and Gentile them. In chapter 1 we read, alike, and this makes up His “Blessed be the God and Father of Church, “the mystery of Christ.” our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath When we start reading all these blessed us with all spiritual bless- chapters, allowing them to sink ings in heavenly places in Christ: into our hearts, it brings forth a According as he hath chosen us in joy and thankfulness to our Lord him before the foundation of the that is impossible to describe. world, that we should be holy and Those who have been washed in without blame before him in love: the blood, and declared righteous Having predestinated us unto the by being baptized into His Church, adoption of children by Jesus can in complete truth receive the Christ to himself, according to the following words from chapter 3, good pleasure of his will, To the “That Christ may dwell in your praise of the glory of his grace, hearts by faith; that ye, being wherein he hath made us accepted rooted and grounded in love, may in the beloved.” We read in chap- be able to comprehend with all ter 2, “But God, who is rich in saints what is the breadth, and mercy, for his great love where- length, and depth, and height; and with he loved us, Even when we to know the love of Christ, which were dead in sins, hath quickened passeth knowledge, that ye might us together with Christ, (by grace be filled with all the fullness of ye are saved;) and hath raised us God.” up together, and made us sit to- In Ephesians 4 Paul begins with gether in heavenly places in the words, “I therefore.” This DECLARED RIGHTEOUS 7 means that because God, through live in all holiness, godliness, and the riches of His divine grace, has righteousness? We are too feeble declared us righteous, the apostle in acknowledging what God has wants us to walk worthy of the done for us, and in returning our vocation wherewith we have been thankfulness to Him. But by yield- called. God has a definite and di- ing to the power of the Holy Spirit, vine purpose in our walk. He and letting Him work the life of wants us to walk in a way that is Christ through us, we can ac- consistent and compatible with knowledge how great God is, and that which He has done for us. We live lives obedient to His will. “All are a child of the King. We have our righteousnesses are as filthy been adopted into His Kingdom. rags,” but His righteousness is all We are to pattern our life after truth, honesty, and goodness, and Jesus Christ, who is our life, un- He has promised that these will be der the influence of God’s Holy evident in the lives of His believ- Spirit. ing children. It would be wonderful if as soon Dear Reader, we would encour• as we are age you to read all of chapters 4 This does not b o r n through 6. Under the old law Is- again we mean that He rael was required to be obedient in could be cannot see our order to receive the blessings of t a k e n God. Under grace we are given sin. Neither i m m e d i - spiritual gifts. “But unto everyone does it mean ately into of us is given grace according to H e a v e n . that sin that is the measure of the gift of Christ.” The dying continued in And through our yielding to God’s thief had Holy Spirit, we will realize to a cannot separate the ex- degree how much God has already us from God… perience blessed us, and in turn we will of never desire to be obedient to His Word. living the Christian life here on In Paul’s day the Church was a earth. He never had the responsi- group of people made up of both bility of letting the fruit of the Jew and Gentile. In Ephesians 4:2 Spirit flow out of his life unto oth- he was encouraging them to for- ers and to the edification of the bear “one another in love.” Is this Church. The first three chapters of not likewise needful today? We Ephesians tell us what God can must love one another in spite of and will do for man. The last three our background or who we are. We teach what man, in a life of service must remember the importance of and devotion, should do for God. the unity of the Spirit as taught in Our citizenship is in Heaven. As the first three chapters. We have such citizens, then, should we not been declared righteous through 8 The Testimony October, 2016 the goodness of God, and so we are Please study the rest of the book encouraged to live “in the bond of of Ephesians, and let us praise peace.” The next three verses God for all these wonderful truths should make us realize how impor- of Jesus Christ living His life tant are the blessings of God to through us. If we apply these the workings of the Church. The truths to our lives, then we as a believer should not strive to attain Church will find Ephesians 4:13 a position in Christ through his becoming a reality, “Till we all own good works. But we as a come in the unity of the faith, and Church are to live well-pleasing of the knowledge of the Son of unto God in the position we have God, unto a perfect man, unto the already attained through divine measure of the stature of the full- grace. We are obligated to engage ness of Christ.” The apostle contin- in a consistent walk and service ues in verses 14 and 15 with a according to a high standard that timely admonition, “That we is unsurpassed because it is ac- henceforth be no more children, cording to God’s grace. A holy tossed to and fro, and carried walk in the service of God is what about with every wind of doctrine, He so wants of us. God wants by the sleight of men, and cunning “lowliness and meekness, with craftiness, whereby they lie in longsuffering, forbearing one an- wait to deceive; But speaking the other in love.” The unity of the truth in love, may grow up into Spirit will make peace among him in all things, which is the brethren. May each one of us dis• head, even Christ.” charge our responsibility and love Let us not be guilty of violating every child of God fervently. The the above verses by telling the un• Word says God’s children are truth to our children pertaining to known by the love they have for the salvation of their souls. Their one another. “By this shall all men own goodness will not merit them know that ye are My disciples, if Heaven. It is only the goodness of ye have love one to another.” This God that will draw them to repen• is not human love. Rather, it is tance. “And be ye kind one to an- divine love. other, tenderhearted, forgiving The next few verses of Ephe- one another, even as God for sians 4 teach the doctrine of spiri- Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” tual gifts, and that is a subject May we praise God for the privi- within itself. But these verses are lege of being accepted by Him all so important in the life of the through the Lord Jesus, and de- believer and the workings of the clared righteous. Church. Whatever spiritual gifts we have been given, let us exercise Donald Beachler (Dec’d) in them to the fullest. And may His Church be edified. IN THE CHAPEL 9

IN THE CHAPEL “Oh, for the Robes of Whiteness,” and others. As we sang, some On Monday, after we had fin- had tears, some closed their eyes, ished eating dinner at our an- and some just listened. nual conference, my husband The door would open, more wanted to show me a chapel on would enter and we would move the university grounds. He said to let them in. Before we left in it was all stone with a steeple, time for the afternoon service, we stained glass windows, and sang the Lord’s Prayer. A wooden pews inside. We walked brother suggested we sing it a ways, through some university softly and another brother read construction, on the sidewalks, Jude, verses 24 and around buildings, 25 as we sang. What and there was the a refreshing touch to chapel: small, but the message of “His stately. As we Majesty” that morn- walked to the en- ing! Only by His trance we com- Majesty are there mented on the lovely notes, music, and flowerbeds that harmony. adorned the ground Only by His Majesty around it. We neared are there hearts to the doors, opened praise Him, hands to them, and to our hold the book, and surprise, we heard feet to walk to The singing! There was a Chapel. Only by His small group from different states Majesty do the morning stars singing out of our hymn book. sing together, does nature praise The acoustics were ideal and the Him, and do we sing and make harmony was angelic. There’s no melody in our hearts to the Lord. notes in our hymn book and no Man has recorded the “singing” one was leading the singing, but of the galaxies and of whales in each heart was bursting with the ocean. God inhabits eternity praise. and the praises of His people. We sang together songs like The songs (which are many times “All Hail the Power of Jesus prayers) ascend to God as in- Name,” “There is a Fountain cense. Let’s continue to Praise Filled With Blood,” “Hark I His Majesty! Hear our Captain Calling,” “Guide Me O Thou Great Jeho- Karen Mohler vah,” “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing,” 10 The Testimony October, 2016 HAVE A HEART ment several years ago in a ser- mon and it seems like we can’t As all of you know, the heart is forget it. The minister went on to spoken of a lot of times in the Bi- explain who your neighbor is. ble. There are 765 verses in the We would like to tell you a story Bible that mention the heart. We of a happening concerning the have heard the word heart men- natural heart that happened about tioned probably every time we go ten years ago. You see, a man to hear the gospel preached. Who named Ken and his wife lived with can know the heart? It is an in- their small children in a home strument that if not guarded care- where there must have been har- fully has the possibility to create a mony. Everything was going well miserable life to whosoever pos- for this family. Their daughter sesses it. God says that some men Calle was about eight or nine “honor me with their lips but their years of age. Her brother was heart is far from me.” If our hearts about five or six years old. are far from God, where are they? One thousand miles away things Have you ever heard of a word were not going well for a man called “self”? named Bob. He was a dying man “As a man thinketh in his heart, that needed a heart. Bob was about so is he.” From the heart is uttered forty years of age. He had been in words that can bless or otherwise. the hospital several times with Because of our own mental or heart problems. The doctor finally physical conditions we can experi- told Bob that unless he had a heart ence joyful, peaceful, troubled, transplant that he would not live. faint, cold, or strong hearts. Half- He also told Bob that he only had a hearted work will not suffice. few more days left before he would We “feel” deep within our heart. pass away. Bob didn’t know Ken We can hear news from someone and his family, neither did Ken’s about a certain situation and our family know about Bob. brain processes that information. Now it so happened that one We immediately feel something in morning Ken was shot and killed. our heart. It can be good or bad. No more father figure to help Elisha the prophet felt sadness for guide this little family. His wife Gehazi when he went out after had a heavy burden placed upon Naaman to receive a reward that her shoulders to raise two small did not belong to him. children and be a breadwinner for Just have a heart, and “do your- them and herself. What a tragic self a favor and love your happening to Ken’s family. Such neighbor.” We heard that state- an uncalled-for murder. HAVE A HEART 11 Ken’s family was asked if they wondered if Bob would do it since would be willing to donate Ken’s he had her father’s heart inside. organs to an organ bank. Their And so the call was made and answer was yes, and so his heart humbly accepted. Tears were was carefully harvested and trans- shed that day. Such was a bitter- ported one thousand miles to the sweet day. hospital where Bob was. Again the question, who is my Of course Bob was elated when neighbor? his doctor came in and told him We fast forwarded, so now let’s that he found him a heart. Every- fast backward in time approxi- thing went well during the opera- mately 2015 years when a man tion, and so Bob remained alive walked here upon this earth. No thanks to Kens family’s willing- guile was found in this man. He ness to give Bob a chance. Now was born a man child. He grew to don’t forget that neither party be a man. He taught men how to knew each other. live. He was rejected by men, He Who is my neighbor? We believe died at the hands of men to save that Ken’s family answered that men from going to a place called question. Sure, Ken’s family found hell. In other words, He had our out who got the heart that was hearts. Men did not have His. You donated but still never met. see, He was God in the flesh. Kens family occasionally We have the opportunity in this emailed Bob to see how he was our day to accept the sacrifice that doing. Yes, time does heal sorrow, was prepared from the foundation but often the scars are there for- of the world. ever. Do yourself a favor, and love Now we need to fast-forward ten your neighbor. to perhaps twelve years and see Won’t you give Him your heart what happens. We want to center today? It’s so important. our thoughts on Ken’s daughter, Marshall and Rosalene Dutter Calle. She certainly felt the loss of a loving father and as time went on she fell in love with a wonder- ful man. And so time moved on for a little while and this couple de- “The LORD is my strength and my cided to marry. shield; my heart trusted in him, The day drew nearer and Calle and I am helped: therefore my wondered who would be the one heart greatly rejoiceth; and with that would walk her up the aisle my song will I praise him.” since her father was dead. She Psalm 28:7 12 The Testimony October, 2016 THE BLESSINGS OF they have in common? How did CLOSE FELLOWSHIP they meet? They were close knit Old German Baptist Brethren So why am I being awakened at families. Many 4th of July week- 2:30 in the morning on July 4, ends were spent together. 2016? It is because of a meeting We know, of course, as we fellow- that we enjoyed yesterday with a ship together, that it is good that group of beloved friends on July 3, we be mindful of those who may not the day before. be a part of any “social or family This group has been gathering group.” It is also good and neces- for many years, and the fellowship sary to reach out beyond our circle has been sweet. Sometimes we and bring others into “closeness” have referred to this group of close who have not felt it before. This is associates as “The Gang.” What do the example of the Savior, and one you think of when you hear the of the missions of the church of word “gang”? I normally would God. And yet, we do appreciate think of a “street gang” or a close friendship also that has been “motorcycle gang.” The 2002 Web- constant over the years. ster’s New World Dictionary that This group had not met for I’m looking at now says this about many years until this past Inde- the word “gang”: “A group working pendence Day weekend. So this or acting together.” We turn the pages to the word “group.” As a day was a day of reminiscing, good noun it says, “Persons or things food, and brotherly love, and we gathered or classed together.” thanked our Heavenly Father for Used as a verb, it says, “To form a it. We considered this a reunion, a group.” This particular group we coming together again! My, how fellowshipped with yesterday was time changes things! formed over sixty-five years ago. As I was thinking of the word Just a few of the first generation “gang,” being a farmer, I thought persons that started this group about a disc. This tillage tool has were there. The other first genera- round blades, and together they tion persons, and some second gen- form a “gang.” Also, there are gang eration persons, have passed on, -plows. This is a plow that is de- with that blessed hope in their signed to turn two or more furrows heart of spending eternity with our at one time. (Matt. 18:20) The Creator! This includes my wife’s newer dictionaries, of course, men- parents. “The Gang,” which origi- tion nothing about this. I had to go nated from the Stillwater and Sa- back to a 1974 Merriam-Webster lem districts, are now mostly sec- Dictionary to find what I was look- ond generation families, but were ing for. “Gang: A set of imple- very much a part of this original ments or devices arranged to oper- group as they grew up together. ate together.” Is this not what we What did they do? These fami- are in Christ? We are all designed lies went camping together, pulled and intended to pull together! We taffy together, went Christmas need to put this into practice as we caroling together, etc. What did carry out and fulfill His teachings! SAVING OUR FAMILIES 13 I Peter 4:10 says, “As every man result in a blessed and peaceful hath received the gift, even so home. minister the same one to another, We must choose a Bible- as good stewards of the manifold believing church that places prior- grace of God.” ity on obedience to God’s com- I John 5:20 says, “And we know mandments. If we are faithful in that the Son of God is come, and this, the children are likely to ap- hath given us an understanding, preciate the same. As teens they that we may know him that is will want to choose a God-fearing true, and we are in him that is church, as their parents chose. true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. We must also give loving disci- This is the true God, and eternal pline to our children. All the pa- life.” rental teaching and church This God is the God we adore, preaching will have little effect Our faithful, unchangeable friend; unless proper discipline is applied. Whose love is as large as his pow’r, This is one of the most important And neither knows measure nor end. things that parents can do. Father ’Tis Jesus, the first and the last, must lead out in discipline. Whose Spirit shall guide us safe home; Mother must support him and use We’ll praise him for all that is past, disciplinary means herself if he is And trust him for all that’s to come. not present. Spend much time together with As this world changes, we can have faith and trust in our God, your children. If you gain their who never changes! May the spirit respect in childhood, it will not be of our almighty God dwell within difficult to keep their respect us continuously, as we live here in through the teen years. Talk often this changeable world. to your children and listen atten- tively to what they say. These L.D. Flory things will do much to save your family. All this should be lovingly wrapped up in prayer to the Heav- enly Father. Pour out your heart’s SAVING OUR FAMILIES desire to the Father concerning Monroe Hostetler your children. Children should hear their parents praying for To save our families, we parents need the cleansing of Jesus’ blood them, mentioning their names and and the power of His resurrection. their needs. Faithful parents will Dads must be born again through be able to look back over their the Spirit (John 3:3), and so must lives and rest in the knowledge their wives. If the parents take the that they have done what they lead in living to God’s honor, their could. children will be influenced by their Selected from example and teaching. This will Beside the Still Waters, May 21, 2016 14 The Testimony October, 2016 THE MARTYRDOM OF Smyrna to the Church of God POLYCARP which sojourns in Philomelium or and to all the brotherhoods of the THE LETTER OF THE holy and universal Church so- SMYRNAEANS journing in every place; mercy and peace and love from God the Fa- This revision into modern Eng- ther and our Lord Jesus Christ be lish is by Richard Neil Shrout, from multiplied. the translation of J. B. Lightfoot. Introduction ************************* We write unto you, brethren, an For background, The Epistle of account of what befell those that Ignatius to Polycarp, and the Epis- suffered martyrdom and especially tle of Polycarp to the Philippians, the blessed Polycarp, who stayed (both available on The Seraphim the persecution, having as it were Files) should be read in connection with this epistle from the Smyr- set his seal upon it by his martyr- naeans about the martyrdom of dom. For nearly all the foregoing Polycarp. events came to pass that the Lord The Apostle John, author of the might show us once more an ex- Gospel of John and Revelation, ample of martyrdom which is con- was a “pillar” of the church in Je- formable to the Gospel. rusalem, and later moved to Ephe- For he lingered that he might be sus for the rest of his ministry. delivered up, even as the Lord did, It was this last of the Twelve to the end that we too might be Apostles who ordained Polycarp imitators of him, not looking only bishop of Smyrna, a city north of to that which concerns ourselves, Ephesus. When St. Ignatius passed but also to that which concerns through Smyrna on his way to our neighbors. For it is the office martyrdom, Polycarp was perhaps of true and steadfast love, not only no more than thirty-five. The Epis- to desire that oneself be saved, but tles of Ignatius were collected by all the brethren also. Polycarp, a fact mentioned by Blessed therefore and noble are Irenaeus, Origen, Eusebius, all the martyrdoms which have Jerome, Athanasius, Theodoret, taken place according to the will of and other ancients. God (for it behooves us to be very After a lifetime of exemplary scrupulous and to assign to God ministry, Polycarp was martyred the power over all things). at the age of eighty-six. This Epis- For who could fail to admire tle of the Smyrnaeans is the first their nobility and patient endur- example of Christian Martyrology. ance and loyalty to the Master? Prologue Seeing that when they were so The church of God which so- torn by lashes that even as far as journs (temporarily lives) at the veins and arteries and inward THE MARTYRDOM OF POLYCARP 15 mechanism of their flesh were right noble Germanicus encour- visible, they endured patiently, so aged their timorousness through that the very bystanders had pity the constancy which was in him; and wept; while they themselves and he fought with the wild beasts reached such a pitch of bravery in a signal way. For when the pro- that none of them uttered a cry or consul wished to prevail upon him a groan, thus showing to us all and bade him have pity on his that at that hour the martyrs of youth, he used violence and Christ being tortured were absent dragged the wild beast towards from the flesh, or rather that the him, desiring the more speedily to Lord was standing by and convers- obtain a release from their un- ing with them. righteous and lawless life. And giving heed unto the grace So after this all the multitude, of Christ they despised the tor- marveling at the bravery of the tures of this world, purchasing at God-beloved and God-fearing peo- the cost of one hour a release from ple of the Christians, raised a cry, eternal punishment. And they “Away with the atheists; let search found the fire of their inhuman be made for Polycarp.” torturers cold: for they set before But one man, Quintus by name, a their eyes the escape from the Phrygian newly arrived from eternal fire which is never Phrygia, when he saw the wild quenched; while with the eyes of beasts, turned coward. He it was their heart they gazed upon the who had forced himself and some good things which are reserved for others to come forward of their those that endure patiently, things own free will (and recant their which neither ear has heard nor faith). The proconsul by much en- eye has seen, neither have they treaty persuaded this man to entered into the heart of man, but swear the oath and to offer in- were shown by the Lord to them, cense. For this cause therefore, for they were no longer men but brethren, we praise not those who angels already. volunteer to recant, since the Gos- And in like manner also those pel does not so teach us. that were condemned to the wild Now the glorious Polycarp at beasts endured fearful punish- the first, when he heard it, so far ments, being made to lie on sharp from being dismayed, wanted to shells and buffeted with other remain in town; but the greater forms of manifold tortures, that part persuaded him to withdraw. the devil might, if possible, by the So he withdrew to a farm not far persistence of the punishment distant from the city, and there he bring them to a denial; for he tried stayed with a few companions, many wiles against them. doing nothing else night and day But thanks be to God; for He but praying for all men and for the truly prevailed against all. For the churches throughout the world, for 16 The Testimony October, 2016 this was his constant habit. marveling at his age and his con- And while praying he fell into a stancy, and wondering why there trance three days before his ar- should be so much eagerness for rest, and he saw his pillow burn- the apprehension of an old man ing with fire. He turned and said like him. At that, he immediately to those that were with him: “It gave orders that a table should be must needs be that I shall be spread for them to eat and drink burned alive.” at that hour, as much as they de- Since those that were in search sired. And he persuaded them to of him persisted, he departed to grant him an hour so he might another farm. Immediately they pray unmolested; and on their con- who were in search of him came senting, he stood up and prayed, up, and not finding him, they being so full of the grace of God, seized two slave lads, one of whom that for two hours he could not confessed under torture; for it was hold his peace, and those that impossible for him to lie concealed, heard were seeing that the very persons who a m a z e d , …the procon- betrayed him were people of his and many own household. And the captain of r e p e n t e d sul said, “I have the police, who chanced to have that they wild beasts the very name, being called Herod, had come here…” but he was eager to bring him into the a g a i n s t stadium, that he might fulfill his such a ven- said, “Call appointed lot, being made a par- erable old for them…” taker with Christ, while they—his man. betrayers—underwent the punish- But when at length he brought ment of Judas himself. his prayer to an end, after remem- So taking the lad with them, on bering all who at any time had the Friday about the supper hour, come in his way, small and great, the police and horsemen went high and low, and all the universal forth with their accustomed weap- Church throughout the world, the ons, hurrying as against a robber. hour of departure being come, they And coming up in a troop late in seated him on a donkey and the evening, they found the man brought him into the city, it being himself (Polycarp) in bed in an a high Sabbath. upper chamber in a certain cot- And he was met by Herod the tage; and though he might have captain of police and his father departed from there to another Nicetes, who also removed him to place, he would not, saying, “The their carriage and tried to prevail will of God be done.” upon him, seating themselves by So when he heard that they his side and saying, “Why, what were come, he went down and con- harm is there in saying, Caesar is versed with them, the bystanders Lord, and offering incense,” with THE MARTYRDOM OF POLYCARP 17 more to this effect, “and saving he said, “Away with the atheists.” yourself?” But he at first gave But when the magistrate pressed them no answer. When however him hard and said, “Swear the they persisted, he said, “I am not oath, and I will release you; revile going to do what you counsel me.” the Christ,” Polycarp said, “Eighty Then they, failing to persuade -six years have I been His servant, him, uttered threatening words and He has done me no wrong. and made him dismount with How then can I blaspheme my speed, so that he bruised his shin, King who saved me?” as he got down from the carriage. But on his persisting again and And without even turning round, saying, “Swear by the genius of he went on his way promptly and Caesar,” he answered, “If you sup- with speed, as if nothing had hap- pose vainly that I will swear by pened to him, being taken to the the genius of Caesar, as you say, stadium; there being such a tu- and feign that you are ignorant mult in the stadium that no man’s who I am, hear me plainly: I am a voice could be so much as heard. Christian. But if you would learn But as Polycarp entered into the the doctrine of Christianity, assign stadium, a voice came to him from a day and give me a hearing.” heaven; “Be strong, Polycarp, and The proconsul said, “Prevail play the man.” And no one saw the upon the people.” But Polycarp speaker, but those of our people said, “As for yourself, I should who were present heard the voice. have held you worthy of discourse; And at length, when he was for we have been taught to render, brought up, there was a great tu- as is proper, to princes and au- mult, for they heard that Polycarp thorities appointed by God such had been apprehended. honor as does us no harm; but as When then he was brought be- for these, I do not hold them wor- fore him, the proconsul asked thy, that I should defend myself whether he were the man. And on before them.” his confessing that he was, he Whereupon the proconsul said: tried to persuade him to a denial “I have wild beasts here and I will saying, “Have respect to your age,” throw you to them, except you re- and other things in accordance pent.” But he said, “Call for them, therewith, as it is their habit to for the repentance from better to say, “Swear by the genius of Cae- worse is a change not permitted to sar; repent and say, ‘Away with us; but it is a noble thing to the atheists.’” Then Polycarp with change from that which is im- solemn countenance looked upon proper to righteousness.” the whole multitude of lawless Then he said to him again, “If heathen that were in the stadium, you despise the wild beasts, I will and waved his hand to them; and cause you to be consumed by fire, groaning and looking up to heaven unless you repent.” But Polycarp 18 The Testimony October, 2016 said: “You threaten with that fire he said prophetically to the faith- which burns for a season and after ful who were with him, “I must a little while is quenched: for you needs be burned alive.” are ignorant of the fire of the fu- These things then happened ture judgment and eternal punish- with so great speed, quicker than ment, which is reserved for the words could tell, the crowds imme- ungodly. But why do you delay? diately collected timber and sticks Come, do what you will.” from the workshops and baths, Saying these things and more and the Jews more especially as- besides, he was inspired with sisted in this with zeal, as is their courage and joy, and his counte- custom. nance was filled with grace, so But when the pile was made that not only did it not drop in dis- ready, divesting himself of all his may at the things which were said upper garments and loosing his to him, but on the contrary the belt, he endeavored also to take off proconsul was astounded and sent his shoes, though not in the habit his own herald to proclaim three of doing this before, because all times in the midst of the stadium, the faithful at all times vied ea- “Polycarp has confessed himself to gerly who should soonest touch his be a Christian.” flesh. For he had been treated When this was proclaimed by with all honor for his holy life even the herald, the whole multitude before his gray hairs came. both of Gentiles and of Jews who Immediately then the instru- dwelt in Smyrna cried out with ments that were prepared for the ungovernable wrath and with a pile were placed about him. As loud shout, “This is the teacher of they were going likewise to nail Asia, the father of the Christians, him to the stake, he said: “Leave the puller down of our gods, who me as I am; for He that has teaches multitudes not to sacrifice granted me to endure the fire will nor worship.” Saying these things, grant me also to remain at the they shouted aloud and asked the pyre unmoved, even without the Asiarch Philip to let a lion loose security which you seek from the upon Polycarp. But he said that it nails.” was not lawful for him, since he So they did not nail him, but had brought the sports to a close. tied him. Then he, placing his Then they thought fit to shout hands behind him and being out with one accord that Polycarp bound to the stake, like a noble should be burned alive. For it ram out of a great flock for an of- must needs be that the matter of fering, a burnt sacrifice made the vision should be fulfilled, ready and acceptable to God, look- which was shown him concerning ing up to heaven said: “O Lord his pillow, when he saw it on fire God Almighty, the Father of Your while praying, and turning round beloved and blessed Son Jesus THE MARTYRDOM OF POLYCARP 19 Christ, through whom we have filled by the wind, made a wall received the knowledge of You, the round about the body of the mar- God of angels and powers and of tyr; and it was there in the midst, all creation and of the whole race not like flesh burning, but like a of the righteous, who live in Your loaf in the oven or like gold and presence; silver refined in a furnace. For we I bless You because You have perceived such a fragrant smell, as granted me this day and hour, if it were the wafted odor of frank- that I might receive a portion incense or some other precious amongst the number of martyrs in spice. the cup of Your Christ unto resur- So at length the lawless men, rection of eternal life, both of soul seeing that his body could not be and of body, in the incorruptibility consumed by the fire, ordered an of the Holy Spirit. May I be re- executioner to go up to him and ceived among these in Your pres- stab him with a dagger. And when ence this day, as a rich and accept- he had done this, there came forth able sacrifice, as You did prepare [a dove and] a quantity of blood, so and reveal it beforehand, and have that it extinguished the fire; and accomplished it, You that all the multitude mar- art the faithful and veled that there true God. The fire, making the should be so For this cause, appearance of a great a differ- yea and for all ence between things, I praise vault…made a wall the unbelievers You, I bless You, round about the and the elect. I glorify You, body of the martyr… In the number of through the eternal these latter was and heavenly High- this man, the glorious priest, Jesus Christ, Your be- martyr Polycarp, who was found loved Son, through Whom, with an apostolic and prophetic teacher Him and the Holy Spirit, be glory in our own time, a bishop of the both now and ever and for the holy Church which is in Smyrna. ages to come. Amen.” When he had offered up the For every word which he uttered Amen and finished his prayer, the from his mouth was accomplished firemen lighted the fire. And, a and will be accomplished. mighty flame flashing forth, we to But the jealous and envious Evil whom it was given to see, saw a One, the adversary of the family of marvel, yea and we were pre- the righteous, having seen the served that we might relate to the greatness of his martyrdom and rest what happened. his blameless life from the begin- The fire, making the appearance ning, and how he was crowned of a vault, like the sail of a vessel with the crown of immortality and 20 The Testimony October, 2016 had won a reward which none PRIDE could gainsay, managed that not “Only by pride cometh conten- even his poor body should be tion…” (Prov. 13:10) taken away by us, although many This verse has provided many desired to do this and to touch his thought provoking encounters as I holy flesh. So he put forward Nicetes, the have pondered this truth. It is a father of Herod and brother of very deep seated thing found Alce, to plead with the magistrate within the human nature, this thing of pride. not to give up his body, “lest,” so it What is pride? was said, “they should abandon Webster: “An unduly high opin- the crucified one and begin to wor- ion of oneself, haughtiness, arro- ship this man”—this being done at gance…” the instigation and urgent en- Vines: “Lifted up, vain glory…” treaty of the Jews, who also Where does it come from and watched when we were about to what is its source? take it from the fire, not knowing You’ll find it in a list Jesus ex- that it will be impossible for us plained on the topic of what defiles either to forsake at any time the a man. “And he said, That which Christ who suffered for the salva- cometh out of the man, that defi- tion of the whole world of those leth the man. For from within, out that are saved—suffered though of the heart of men, proceed evil faultless for sinners—nor to wor- thoughts, adulteries, fornications, ship any other. murders, thefts, covetousness, For Him, being the Son of God, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, we adore, but the martyrs as disci- an evil eye, blasphemy, PRIDE, ples and imitators of the Lord we foolishness: All these evil things cherish as they deserve for their come from within, and defile the matchless affection towards their man.” (Mark 7:20–23) There are own King and Teacher. May it be many things contained in that list, our lot also to be found partakers along with pride, but we will focus and fellow-disciples with them. just on pride briefly. The centurion therefore, seeing How does God feel about pride? the opposition raised on the part What does The Word say about of the Jews, set him in the midst pride? God, speaking to Satan, and burnt him after their custom. said, “Thou wast perfect in thy Selected by ways from the day that thou wast Lowell E. Miller created, till iniquity was found in thee…Thine heart was lifted up because of thy beauty…” (Ezek. PRIDE 21 28:15, 17) Another list: “These six cording unto the multitude of thy things doth the LORD hate: yea, tender mercies blot out my trans- seven are an abomination unto gressions. Wash me thoroughly him: A PROUD LOOK, a lying from mine iniquity, and cleanse tongue, and hands that shed inno- me from my sin. For I acknowl- cent blood, an heart that deviseth edge my transgressions: and my wicked imaginations, feet that be sin is ever before me. Behold, thou swift in running to mischief, a desirest truth in the inward parts: false witness that speaketh lies, and in the hidden part thou shalt and he that soweth discord among make me to know wisdom. Hide brethren.” (Prov. 6:16–19) thy face from my sins, and blot out What does the Word say will all mine iniquities. Create in me a become of this pride in a heart? clean heart, O God; and renew a “Pride goeth before destruction, right spirit within me. The sacri- and an haughty spirit before a fices of God are a broken spirit: a fall.” (Prov. 16:18) “But he giveth broken and a contrite heart, O more grace. Wherefore he saith, God, thou wilt not de- God resisteth the proud, but spise.” (Psalm 51:1–3, 6, 9–10, 17) giveth grace unto the hum- Pride is an ugly thing. It is an ble.” (James 4:6) “Every one that ingredient in every quarrel, it is is proud in heart is an abomina- divisive in relationships, it is an tion to the LORD: though hand join ingredient in discord among broth- in hand, he shall not be unpun- ers, it results in much damage, it ished.” (Prov. 16:5) hurts people, and it will build There are many Scriptures ref- walls. Pride can be personal. Pride erencing pride and what God can be Spiritual. The adversary thinks about it, and how He works doesn’t care where it surfaces, but against it and will reward those let us rest assured, God hates it who continue in it. There are where ever it is found. Humility many examples of pride found in will be gifted to us as we look to men in the Bible. Pride will flour- and continue to look at “HIS MAJ- ish when self remains alive and ESTY.” bitterness can and often will result “Let the words of my mouth, from “the pursuit of being right” in and the meditation of my heart, be this thing that consumes us. What can we do to be freed from acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, it and avoid it? my strength, and my redeemer.” There must be a crucifixion of (Ps. 19:14) self. There must be repentance. Aaron Garber “Have mercy upon me, O God, ac- cording to thy lovingkindness: ac- 22 The Testimony October, 2016 LORD, TEACH US TO PRAY In Luke 11:1 one of the disciples asked the Lord to teach them to pray. Jesus then blessed them and all mankind with words full of depth and meaning. A few years ago in our meditation on the Lord’s Prayer, we were blessed to think of it in letter form. It is one we have prayed many nights, and these words were on our lips and heart as we fell asleep.

ADDRESS: Our Father Which art in Heaven

GREETING: Hallowed by Thy Name

INTRODUCTION: Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven.

BODY: Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

CLOSING: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever.

VALEDICTION: Amen.

SIGNATURE: Anyone exercising in the Lord’s Prayer.

A letter is usually addressed to may concern,” or “Dear Sirs.” Hal- one or more individuals, has a lowed be thy name is a reveren- greeting, an introduction, the tial greeting expressing our mind body, a closing, a valediction and heart to the One honored (complimentary closing), and then above all names. a signature. As we look at this The introduction in a letter can prayer letter we see it is addressed share a purpose and a continu- to Our Father which art in ance. The purpose may be to in- heaven—an address that has be- quire of one’s well being, to share come more precious as we see the what has been transpiring in the time approaching. writer’s life, and to continue shar- In this prayer there is no imper- ing our thoughts for life in gen- sonal greeting such as “To whom it eral. Praying Thy kingdom LORD, TEACH US TO PRAY 23 come expresses our purpose of wards is LIVE. By living out the being one of God’s children while four appeals listed above, we can waiting for His return. Thy will be alive in Christ. be done in earth as it is in The closing of a letter may heaven is a statement of continu- strengthen it by reiterating parts ance as we are seeking to do His of the letter. It closes with, for will in this earthly tabernacle thine is the kingdom, and the while anticipating our heavenly power, and the glory, for ever, body in His presence. Amen. This prayer began with Hallowed be thy name and ends The body of a letter may com- with for thine is…in which both municate our support for someone phrases center on our Father. or invite his direction and inter- After declaring Hallowed be vention that would enhance our thy name, we petition Him with spiritual walk. In the body of this thy kingdom come, At the end of prayer letter we see four requests the prayer the focus on the king- to the heavenly Father: dom acknowledges again that this (1) Give us this day our daily kingdom to come is His. bread, And the power expresses the (2) And forgive us our debts as Father’s presence in our life as we we forgive our debtors. beseech Him to give us, forgive us, (3) And lead us not into temp- lead us and deliver us. tation; In the last part of this prayer (4) but deliver us from evil letter, the glory, for ever punctu- Give us, forgive us, lead us and ates the contemplations that we deliver us are four basic needs know intuitively: the glory that our that affect our body, mind, and Father is forever omnipotent soul, (infinite power), omniscient (all see- Give us speaks of our daily ing and all knowing), omnipresent physical needs of food and rai- (everywhere all the time), and om- ment. Our Father also gave us His nificent (creator of all things) which Son; Jesus states in John 6:35 that is stated in Genesis 1:1, “In the be- He is the Bread of Life, the source ginning God created the heaven of our spiritual sustenance. and the earth.” Amen (so be it). Forgive us demonstrates how We can think of no better vale- instrumental it is in maintaining diction and signature than what our relational needs. was spoken by the man standing Lead us may address the men- afar off in the temple in Luke tal sins which so easily beset us 18:13, “God be merciful to me, a and is asking that our steps be sinner.” guided. Deliver us is seeking redemp- Calvin Durham tion from the devil and spiritual wickedness. EVIL spelled back- 24 The Testimony October, 2016

NOTICE: SUBSCRIPTION RATE CHANGE We are making our call for subscriptions for the year 2017 at this time. In order to cover costs, the rate has been changed to $20 per year. The subscription price for each subscriber should be received by Decem- ber 1, 2016, from the District Agents. Each District Agent should in- clude an updated list of subscribers, with their addresses. Individual subscriber’s subscription payments should be received by December 1, 2016, as well, if possible, for the 2017 subscription year. We continue to encourage writing contributions from our readers. We give the Lord praise and honor for supplying the needs of this publication. “And the Lord is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work.” (II Cor. 9:8) Meditations

Paths left by forefathers, though often indistinct, are worth considering. Jewish New Year—Rosh Hashanah year 5777 (A. D. 2016, Oct. 2–4). “I acknowledge I was wrong” is better than “IF I was wrong.” If the way ahead seems unclear, it may help to look back. The word of the Lord was precious in those days. The goodness of God leadeth to repentance. Feast of Tabernacles—October 16–24. Read Revelation—it’s all good.

Questions to Ponder

This section offers some questions to think about, or for Sunday afternoon discussions, or to prompt future articles from our readers, etc. Readers are encouraged to offer questions. Question #1 — Are there hin- Question #2 — How do you think drances to your prayer life? What your prayer life can be improved? do you feel the greatest hin- A. Do you find it improving when drances may be? there are great trials? A. Do you wonder if prayer really B. Does it help to read examples of makes an actual difference? mighty prayer in the Scriptures? B. Do you ever feel like you are not C. Will an unwavering faith in the really talking to anyone when truth of the Scriptures help? praying? D. Will a greater fervency and des- C. Do you ever wonder if the prom- perate desire help you? ises concerning prayer can actu- E. Does it help when you are more ally be true? conscious of God’s presence with you? GENERAL ITEMS 25 General Items

BAPTISMS THE TESTIMONY Dec. 13, 2015; Stillwater, OH FINANCIAL REPORT Dana Boone Aug. 18, 2016: Bear Creek, OH Balance June 30, 2015 ...... $10,242.94 Madalyn Huffman Sept. 1, 2016; West Manchester, IN Income ...... $29,815.40 Cody Long Expenses ...... $32,222.00 Sept. 8, 2016; Modesto, CA Balance June 30, 2016 ...... $7,836.34 Sierra Long

NEW MEMBERS RECEIVED 2016 CONFERENCE July 24, 2016; West Manchester, IN Doug and Elma Cook FINANCIAL REPORT

Receipts: REINSTATEMENT Aug. 12, 2016: Columbia River, WA Bal. from 2015 Conference ..... $81,097.62 Roger Hales, received back into Donations for Conference ..... $167,280.00 Fellowship. Other Donations ...... $5,893.33 Total Receipts ...... $254,270.00 COMMISSIONS Sept. 9, 2016; Cutler Ridge, IN Expenses: Stephen Skiles (and wife LaurelLee) Ordained to the Eldership COA Supplies ...... $1,933.76 Communion ...... $2,621.19

Food & Catering (Wesleyan) $143,493.51 COMMUNION NOTICES Food Committee ...... $00.00 Oct. 8, 2016 ...... Zillah, WA Oct. 15, 2016 ...... Bethel, OH Facilities, Rent, Services ...... $12,500.00 Oct. 15, 2016 ...... Maple Grove, OH Lodging Committee ...... $2,660.61 Oct. 22, 2016 ...... Kidron Valley, KS Oct. 22, 2016 ...... Stillwater, OH Parking/Transport/Security ..... $5,836.95 Oct. 29, 2016 ...... Lower Twin, OH Nursery ...... $00.00 Nov. 5, 2016 ...... Columbia River, WA Nov. 5, 2016 ...... Shenandoah, VA Usher ...... $470.00 Nov. 5, 2016 ...... Western Kansas, KS Preteens ...... $91.21 Nov. 12, 2016 ...... Covington, OH Young Folks ...... $4,796.09 Nov. 12, 2016 ...... West Modesto, CA Feb. 11, 2017 ...... Pine Grove, FL First Aid ...... $290.26 Mar. 18, 2017 ...... Fall Creek, IN Misc...... $547.92 April 1, 2017 ...... Fair Haven, KS April 8, 2017 ...... Salem, OH Total Expenses ...... $175,167.50 April 22, 2017 ...... Cutler Ridge, IN Nov. 11, 2017 ...... West Manchester, IN Total Lodging (Pd. by guests) . $115,385.00 26 The Testimony October, 2016 Poems

A THOUSAND YEARS NATURE’S MESSAGE WITH JESUS If all the things men fear the most L. H. Jameson would happen in a day. Be of good cheer, ye friends of Jesus, The government collapse and fall, Never succumb to doubts and fears; our freedoms go away; An economic crisis overwhelm the Cherish the greatest precious promise, world we see; “To reign with Christ a thousand years.” Our jobs be lost, and chaos reign, To reign a thousand years with Jesus, and peace and plenty flee, Free from all trials, toils, and tears, This is the Father’s precious promise, T’would make no difference to the “To reign with Christ a thousand years.” rose, the lily, and the fern. The primrose still would blossom

while the inner cities burned. Be of good cheer, earth’s night of sorrow, The pretty mandevilla Shortly will close, with all its fears; and the yellow buttercup, Then shall arise the glorious morrow, Would still produce their colors The reign with Christ a thousand years. with their peaceful face turned up. To reign a thousand years with Jesus, More than requites for all our tears; The clover still would flourish, and the water lily smile; This is the sure and gracious promise, When war and trouble reign, the flowers “To reign with Christ a thousand years.” would blossom all the while. When sorrow fills our place on earth, Be of good cheer, time’s painful conflicts, as Jesus says it will, All will be done when Christ appears; Take comfort in the crocus and the Then will begin the glorious era, blooming daffodil.

The reign with Christ a thousand years. For these are things that God has To reign a thousand years with Jesus, made to draw our thoughts above; Far from the tempter’s lures and snares; They tell about His goodness With the redeemed of ev’ry nation, and His mercy and His love, Reigning with Christ a thousand years. Declaring to a world of woe this constant declaration: “There is a God who reigns above, Be of good cheer, ten thousand ages, and offers you salvation!” Perfect in bliss and free from tears, Soon will begin their endless cycle, They tell how God arrays and cares for Reigning with Christ a thousand years. every single flower, Ten thousand times ten thousand ages, And how He is sustaining us and Freedom from sin and death and tears, keeping by His power. With an “eternal weight of glory,” His majesty and beauty are not damaged by man’s sin; Comes with that reign of a thousand years. He’ll care for us and keep us till He Selected by brings His Children in… Sam and Eva Boone Lowell Miller

POEMS 27

AT THE NAME OF JESUS Caroline Maria Noel

At the name of Jesus every knee shall bow, Every tongue confess Him King of glory now; ’Tis the Father’s pleasure we should call Him Lord, Who from the beginning was the mighty Word.

Mighty and mysterious in the highest height, God from everlasting, very light of light: In the Father’s bosom with the Spirit blest, Love, in love eternal, rest, in perfect rest.

At His voice creation sprang at once to sight, All the angel faces, all the hosts of light, Thrones and dominations, stars upon their way, All the heavenly orders, in their great array.

Humbled for a season, to receive a name From the lips of sinners unto whom He came, Faithfully He bore it, spotless to the last, Brought it back victorious when from death He passed.

Bore it up triumphant with its human light, Through all ranks of creatures, to the central height, To the throne of Godhead, to the Father’s breast: Filled it with the glory of that perfect rest.

Name Him, brothers, name Him, with love strong as death But with awe and wonder, and with bated breath! He is God the Savior, He is Christ the Lord, Ever to be worshipped, trusted and adored.

In your hearts enthrone Him; there let Him subdue: All that is not holy, all that is not true: Crown Him as your captain in temptation’s hour; Let His will enfold you in its light and power.

Brothers, this Lord Jesus shall return again, With His Father’s glory, with His angel train; For all wreaths of empire meet upon His brow, And our hearts confess Him King of glory now.

Selected by Maribeth Filbrun

28 The Testimony October, 2016 Obituaries

LAIR — Mary Jane Staup, daughter WAGONER — Andrew Bennett, the of Francis “Martin” and Josephine son of Jonas D. and Tamara J. (Hess) Eichholtz Staup, who preceded her in Wagoner, was born on July 14, 2015, death. She was born September 1, in Hershey, Pennsylvania. He was 1944, in Troy, Ohio. She went home to carried from the loving arms of his be with her Lord on Sunday, June 19, parents into the eternal arms of Jesus 2016, at Cleveland Clinic at 71 years on Monday June 20, 2016, at the age of age. Jane gave her life to Jesus of 11 months and six days. “A bud has Christ as teenager at a Billy Graham been carefully selected by the Master Crusade and was a member of Grace Gardener to bloom in His eternal bou- Community Church of Huber Heights. quet.” (from the funeral service) She was very active in many church Andrew was born with Simpson activities and a Hobby Club with Golabi Behmel Syndrome, the under- lying cause of his multiple medical many close friends. conditions. He underwent various sur- She graduated from Tecumseh High geries and spent many weeks at Her- School and was active in several of the shey Medical Center; he spent even booster organizations. Mary Jane re- more weeks happy at home. In spite of ceived a heart transplant in December his fragile health, Andrew was a con- 1985 at the Cleveland Clinic and was tented baby, blessing us with his shin- one of the longest living single trans- ing blue eyes, sweet grins and warm plant recipients. She loved her grand- cuddles. We will forever cherish the 11 children and spending time with her months we were granted to love and family, which was one of her favorite care for him. He touched many lives things to do. during his brief stay here. Jane was married October 20, 1962, Andrew is survived by his parents, to Marvin E. Lair, who survives and three brothers: Jack, Finley, Clark; he was a son of Edward and Naomi one sister, Zoey; grandparents John Beeghley Lair, deceased. Also surviv- and Mabel Wagoner, Darrell and ing are son, Curt Lair; daughter, Cara Janet Hess; great-grandparents Joan and Mike Gootee; sister, Judy and Ray Wagoner, Robert and Louise Hess, Lowe; grandchildren, Matthew Lair, Peggy Bayer; six aunts, five uncles Emma and Ethan Gootee; several and 27 loving cousins. He was pre- nieces and nephews. Mary Jane is also ceded in death by a cousin, MariAnne survived by a sister-in-law, Margaret Hess; great-grandparents David and (Spence) Austin; and brothers-in-law, Irene Hess, Chester Wagoner and Irvin and Bonnie Lair; Ken and Sue Paul Bayer. Lair. Funeral services were held on Fri- Memorial services were at Commu- day, June 24, at the Brown’s Mill nity Church of Huber Heights on June Meeting House. The Word of God was 23, 2016. Pastor Bob Foote spoke on preached, and encouragement was the message: “You Need a Heart given by ministers Kenneth Hopkins Transplant,” using Ezekiel 11:19, and Edward Hess. Verses were shared 18:31. A unison reading was given, from I Peter regarding the ministry of using II Thessalonians 4:13–18. suffering. Burial was at the Mount Zion Cemetery with Scripture and Hymns “Face to Face” and “Amazing words of hope from minister Richard Grace” were sung to open and close Hess. the services. We grieve the absence Andrew has Bonnie Layman Lair left in our home and hearts; yet we OBITUARIES 29 rejoice knowing he is safe in the arms on Myers Rd. near the Donnels Creek of Jesus where all things are made meetinghouse. Daddy was the last new. “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” surviving sibling of 6 sisters and 2 brothers. He peacefully departed this The Family life on July 12, 2016. Daddy was married to Mary Jane Mechlin on Feb. 28, 1940, and she LAYMAN — Oral Miller, 91 years of passed away on their anniversary in age, of Lima, Ohio and who had re- 1985. They were blessed with 6 chil- sided in Chicago for sixty years, died dren. Daddy married Martha (Crist) Thursday morning, June 30, 2016, at Brumbaugh on Oct. 23, 1987, and they the Elmcroft Care Center in Lima, enjoyed more than 28 years together. where he had resided for nearly 6 Daddy accepted Jesus as his Savior years. He was born May 16, 1925, the and was baptized into the Old German tenth child of Irvin Robert and Mary Baptist Brethren Church on May 13, Etta Miller Layman in Sugar Creek 1948. He remained a steadfast and Twp., Allen County, Ohio. loyal brother until his death. Daddy He was a 1943 graduate of Gomer was never one for the spotlight, but High School and had attended The his attitude, his actions, and his faith Ohio State University. He was em- were noticed and appreciated by many ployed until 1951 with the Greyhound throughout his life. Daddy saw many Bus Lines and then moved to Chicago changes during the course of his to work for Superior Coffee and Tea lengthy life but he never wavered in Company and later retired from Bur- his faith. Daddy rarely ever missed a hop Paper Company. He enjoyed many church service. His strongest desire sports. right up to his passing was the desire He is survived by two sisters, Mar- to attend church. He called for and received the anointing June 30, 2016. garet (Marion) Buckles residing at Howard, Daddy, Grandpa, Great- Otterbein Cridersville and Virginia Grandpa, Great-Great-Grandpa, (husband Louis, deceased) Forney of touched a lot of lives in the 97 years Lima and many nieces and nephews. he was blessed with. He was never one Preceding him in death are 8 siblings; to look for attention or recognition. He Martha (Chester) Wolf; Clara set an example for us all with his (Howard) Brunk; John (Evelyn) Lay- steadfast faith, his unwavering loy- man; Esther (Earl) Mohler; Aaron alty, his strong work ethic, and his (Jane) Layman; Arthur (Treva) Lay- good spirits. During his last few man; Noah (Glenda) Layman and months, numerous nurses and doctors Philip (Helen) Layman. remarked on his positive attitude, his Funeral services were held, good humor, and his gentle nature. Wednesday, July 6, 2016, at the Tho- Daddy’s energy never deserted him mas E. Bayliff Funeral Home in Spen- until the last month or so. He con- cerville, Ohio, with Rev. Andrew J. stantly wanted to be up and doing. He Atkins officiating. Burial followed in loved to visit with people, young and the Ash Grove Cemetery. old. He was very diligent about visit- ing the widows, widowers, the sick, Bonnie Layman Lair and afflicted. We were truly blessed as his children to have him for our fa- ther. BAKER — Howard Laughlin, son of As we say good-bye to Daddy, we Charles Elmer and Mary Mae rejoice in the knowledge that he is in (Laughlin) Baker, was born in Clark heaven now with all that have gone Co. Ohio, on Oct. 23, 1918, on a farm before. 30 The Testimony October, 2016 Surviving are his loving companion; Tommy’s daddy took him rides in his 2 daughters, Mary Anne and Paris big truck, and every morning Tommy Eldridge, and Beverly and Ezra Wray; would see his daddy off to work. In his 3 sons, Lloyd and Renee, John and his brief thirty-two days here on earth he companion, Emmie Hester, and Paul touched many lives and was loved by and Sandra; 21 grandchildren; 40 family and friends. Tommy will al- great-grandchildren; 10 great-great- ways be deeply loved by his family, he grandchildren; stepson, Charles and was so precious in his brief stay here Marlene Brumbaugh; stepdaughter, on earth and brought great joy to all Phyllis and Gerald Miller; 8 step- with whom he met. He was especially grandchildren; 33 stepgreat - loved by his mommy and daddy, who grandchildren; 8 stepgreat-great- had many expectations and were look- grandchildren; and several, nephews ing forward to spending many years and nieces. watching him grow up and become a Daddy was also preceded in death man. Tommy has a new mission now, by his daughter, Nancy Ellen; sisters, his memory will be a guide for his Nellie and Carter Massie, Lestie and mommy and daddy to help them Art Kohler, Naomi and Walter Long, through this life and provide a hope to Wava and Emerson Miller, Margie see him again someday in that safe and Clarence Appling, and Ruth and happy home where there are no more Kyle Guthrie; brothers, James and tears and partings. Evelyn, and Charles; 2 stepchildren, Tommy is survived by his parents, Jerry Brumbaugh, and Connie grandparents: Antonio de leon, Li Westfall; and a stepgreat• gaya Vergara, Calvin and Barbara granddaughter, Cindy Brumbaugh. Boyd and brothers Lorenzo and Andre. Funeral services were held July 16 A visitation/viewing was held at at the Donnels Creek meetinghouse, Terzich and Wilson Funeral Home with thoughts taken from Mark 13, to Inc., Sonora, California, on Friday, Watch!—both for the Lord’s return August 5, 2016, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 and for our souls. Daddy was laid to p.m. The memorial service was held at rest in the Myers Cemetery, near Wood Colony Hall, Modesto, Califor- North Hampton Ohio, to await the nia, on Saturday, August 6, 2016, at glorious Resurrection Day. 11:00 a.m. Elder Roger Gish opened The Family the ceremony with a song “There is a Happy Land,” read the obituary and song “Jesus Loves Me.” Closing mes- BOYD — Thomas Raymond, sage was by Elder Mark Grover. Clos- (Tommy Ray) son of Jacky Leigh de ing song was “Jesus Loves the Little Leon and Daniel Boyd was born at Children of the World.” Interment Sonora Regional Medical Center in followed at Wood Colony Cemetery, Sonora, California, on June 26, 2016. Modesto, California, by Elder Daryl Early in the morning on July 29, 2016, Landes. Songs, “How Great Thou Art,” Tommy had a visit from heaven, and “Old Rugged Cross,” and “As the Deer Jesus told him it was time for him to Pants for the Water” were sung. come home to live in Heaven. The Family When Tommy was born he was wel- comed by his Mommy and Daddy, Grandpa and Grandma Boyd, and Uncle David and Kenji. SCHAURER — Ralph J, age 89 of During his brief stay here on earth, Covington, Ohio, passed away Thurs- Tommy’s mommy would sing to him day, August 4, 2016. He was born Au- Philippine songs and Grandma sang gust 24, 1926, in Randolph Township, (Jesus loves the little children). Montgomery County, Ohio, OBITUARIES 31 to his parents John H. and Mabel children and their spouses, Rodney (Mohler) Schaurer. Dad graduated and Jerilyn Schaurer of Covington, from Covington High School in 1944. Marilyn and Harlan Holsinger of After graduation, he spent 1-1/2 years Troy, Arlene and Keith Brubaker of doing Civilian Public Service in the Eaton, Marlin (dec’d) and Charlene mountains of California. On June 20, Schaurer of Pleasant Hill, Dennis and 1948, he married Lois Cottrell of Ar- Sherri Schaurer of Hughson, Califor- canum, and together they raised their nia, Kenneth and Kathy Schaurer of family and shared life for over 68 Piqua, Jenny and Jason Brubaker of years. They accepted Jesus as their Modesto, California; 24 grandchil- Savior and were baptized on June 19, dren; 50 great-grandchildren; brother 1949, placing their fellowship with the and sisters-in-law Raymond and Old German Baptist Brethren, then Mary Ann Schaurer of Covington, putting their membership with the Sandra (Schaurer) Knipe of Ft. New Conference in 2009. Myers, Florida. He was preceded in Dad was a grain farmer most of his death by his parents, a brother Byron life and enjoyed raising beef cattle. Schaurer, and son Marlin Schaurer. They also raised chickens which sup- The family circle has once again been plied eggs for a delivery route in Pi- broken, but we look forward to being qua. At the age of 58, Dad turned the together in heaven. Funeral services farming operation over to his sons, were held 10:00 AM Tuesday, August and dedicated his time teaching at 9, at the Covington meeting house, Pathway School for 12 years. Dad and with Trent Bowman and Ron Bow- Mom enjoyed traveling, both in the man conducting the service. Ron used states and abroad. Mom suffered a Philippians 1:21 as the main thought, stroke in September of 2013. Dad “For to me to live is Christ, and to die showed us all a godly example in his is gain,” with the focus of the service care for her until he was hospitalized being to magnify Jesus as our Hope July 8, 2016, with respiratory prob- and Redeemer. Interment followed at lems from which he never recovered. Sugar Grove cemetery, with Thane Dad will be missed and remem- Boone officiating. bered by his loving family: wife, Lois, The Family Terms be based on Scripture. References are appreciated. Shorter focused articles Subscriptions should be made are more desirable than articles that through the congregational contact or move from one topic to another. Se- through The Testimony office. Subscrip- lected material will be considered. tion price is $20.00 per year. New sub- Original writings are preferred. It is scriptions should be paid (prorated) recommended that writers submit through the remainder of the current themselves to the Spirit, which re- year. All renewals begin at the first of veals the will of God to the Church in the calendar year. Newly married and every age, according to the varied those unable to pay for a subscription needs and circumstances. may receive a free subscription through Written articles should be legible. the agent of their local congregation. Typed material is preferred and should be double-spaced. Electronic trans- Contributors mission or CD will be accepted. The Authors of essays, devotionals, po- author’s name and address must be ems, etc. are asked to review the included on all material. An attempt Statement of Purpose on the back will be made to contact the author of page of this periodical. Articles should articles that are not accepted.

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Old German Old BaptistBrethren Church 353 Rd. Billman 45347 Paris, New OH

The Testimony is a Christian publi- restore and maintain a fellowship of cation intended for those who desire true primitive Christianity through nourishment in their spiritual walk, the communication of all good things. and for writers who wish to express Send all communication to: witness to the Truth of the Gospel as experienced in their own lives. It The Testimony holds the Holy Scriptures to be its 353 Billman Rd. only Creed. Its purpose is to bear New Paris, OH 45347-9102 witness to the Truth of God’s Word Phone: (937) 437-4685 as it is applied in the daily life of [email protected] committed Christians. It supports the anabaptist and pietist founda- tions of the Brethren of Schwar- The Testimony Committee zenau, Germany (1708) including the Roger Rapp biblical principle of the community of Lowell Miller, Editor believers bound by a confession of Dean Kinsley faith in the Lord Jesus confirmed by Gary Peters adult immersion baptism (Mark Larry Bower 16:16). It strives to promote a life of Associate Editors true living piety among all who con- Marcus Miller fess Jesus as their Lord. It seeks to Darryl Filbrun