―Quicken me after thy lovingkindness; so shall I keep TheThe TestimonyTestimony

of thy mouth.‖ Psalm 119:88 Verse Of The Month “ Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil…” Hebrews 2:14 Vol. VI March 2015 No. 3

INCARNATION

“With whom shall ye liken Me?” saith the Lord, Immortal, Eternal, The Ancient of Days, No end, no beginning—feeble words can’t afford to express His all powerful, unsearchable ways.

Yet clothed in His Majesty, stooping to dust, He took of the ground, where animals trod And lovingly formed from low earthen crust, a MAN in the image and likeness of GOD!

Breath of Life! Living Soul! With Being and Voice, Perfection without, and sinless within, Power over Creation and Power of Choice…then falling from favor, by evil and sin.

Relationship severed! Eternity lost! Driven from Eden, no remedy found. The remainder of life he would pay the high cost by the sweat of his face, and thorns in the ground.

Unlike his Creator whose image he bore. Temporal, mortal, and bearing his sins, A vapor of life, with soul sick and sore. Oh! What could be done for remission of sins?!

Of no reputation, a servant in form, was born in a stable, an animal’s pen From the Glory of Heaven, to live as a worm; all GOD in the likeness and image of MAN!

The same One whose presence in a fiery bush, had made the ground Holy, and told Moses thus, “Take thy shoes off thy feet!” Now here in the flesh, was putting on sandals and walking with us!

God in flesh! Can it be! Accepting us too? Not dealing with us according to sins? “As the Father loved me, so have I loved You.” “Henceforth, I call you not Servants but Friends.”

Unlike royal lineage—rejected, despised! Beaten, forsaken, and bearing His cross, A Creator, struggling for breath, closed His eyes, and ransomed my soul from damnation and loss!

Redemption accomplished! The price has been paid! No longer an outcast! A new path He trod! And when my life’s through, I shall be satisfied…when I shall awake in the Likeness of GOD!

Joseph Gish

The Testimony

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“For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in.” Matthew 25:35 HOSPITALITY 3 Editorial

HOSPITALITY produce a wealth of good results if A blessed Lord‘s Day is drawing embraced wholeheartedly and in- to its closing moments. Assem- tentionally. The first one high- bling in public worship was a won- lighted is found in I Peter 4:9 derful privilege as we exalted His which reads: ―Use hospitality one name together. The Spirit brought to another without grudging.‖ a convicting message calling all to This verse could be summarized a life of prayer. The singing, as: Be fond of your guests and prayers, and communion of spirits without complaining, i.e., Mary were sweet. Fellowship was flow- and Martha Fondness is to be ten- ing; dinner invitations were given der toward, to be affectionate of and accepted to ―abide with us till another. It is as if we would enfold evening.‖ Warm hospitality ex- our guests within our arms (if not tended and on the spot! The Zac- literally at least figuratively), to chaeus model in action found in embrace them, to welcome them. Luke 19:6, where ―he made haste, Hail! A fondness like this takes a and came down, and received him ―coming down,‖ an humbling of joyfully” into his house. The hours ourselves to freely bless another. pass and we retire to our warm The second lesson found in Ro- homes enriched and refreshed. mans 12:13 reads, ―Distributing to Evening welcomes us with falling the necessity of saints; given to snowflakes quietly painting the hospitality.‖ This calls us to earth‘s canvas with its fresh blan- share appropriately with others ket of whiteness, a fitting epitaph and to pursue after guests. There of a dying day. Beautiful. Peace- is no doubt that a certain fondness ful. Sometimes it seems as if God of others, of brethren, and of has called us all over to His place strangers will also motivate a pur- for the day and it was just per- suit after them. Let us ask our- fect!! We do believe that every selves, ―Am I fond of guests?‖ good gift and every perfect gift is Think of God‘s love and care for from above, and cometh down us. Think of His fondness of us from the Father of lights. It is true even while we were yet sinners. that God‘s gifts fall in abundance Consider God‘s pursuit of us as upon us as does the snow from ―He made haste and came down‖ heaven, and yet His Word reveals as He seeks us out. We read in to us that a day with God and His Ephesians 1 that He hath children is also a day with inten- abounded toward us. The parable tions. The thriving Christian com- in Luke 15 sometimes referred to munity will be partly character- as the ―Parable of the Faithful Fa- ized by the warmth of Christian ther‖ gives us a picture of a pursu- hospitality. Have you thought ing father and a bringing out of much lately of what your inten- the best to bless another with the tions are in the area of hospital- best part being that ―he received ity? The old adage is that ―good him joyfully‖ into his house! intentions will get you nowhere‖ As we open up our homes and and perhaps it is partly true, but hearts may Christ be the Center- they may provide a start to getting piece; the unseen Guest that us somewhere! blesses all the rest. Two scriptural teachings on this subject, just by themselves, will Gary Peters 4 The Testimony March, 2015 General

CHARACTERIZATION OF ―Anabaptists‖). From their begin- THE THREE HISTORIC ning, the outreach of the 1708 Brethren was different from that (In relation to their understanding of the Anabaptists. The Brethren of the two Kingdoms) emphasized a life of personal com- mitment and holiness, a direct Society of Friends () and result of their Pietistic origins Political Activism which, as we shall see, reached Anabaptists and Social Justice back into Quaker thought. The Brethren and Personal Holiness Anabaptists, of necessity, first em- The characterization of the phasized complete separation of three traditional branches of the kingdoms, largely as a result of Historic Peace Churches—political the severe persecution which they activism, social justice, and per- suffered. However, in the mid- sonal holiness—were suggested to nineteenth through the twentieth this author in a conversation with century, many Anabaptists em- the late Brethren historian, Don- braced then-prevalent missionary ald F. Durnbaugh sometime in the outreach with emphasis on social early 1980s. Durnbaugh, as most justice and activism. Brethren historians, held that the The Brethren, originating two Schwarzenau Brethren were not hundred years after the Anabap- historically Anabaptist in origin. tists, suffered persecution to a The Schwarzenau Brethren of much less severe degree than the 1708 had some roots and shared Anabaptists. From their beginning many beliefs with the 1525 Ana- in 1708, the Brethren shared with ; however, the Brethren of the Anabaptists the Two Kingdom 1708 were and are still, distinct in concept through a fellowship com- many ways from the Anabaptists. munity. Both the Anabaptists and The purpose of this writing is to the Brethren had a biblical out- preserve an appreciation for that reach in their beginnings. The distinction. Brethren mission seems to have Not all brethren share Durn- been based on personal witness baugh‘s interpretation of Brethren strongly supported by the faith history, so in order to understand community, that is to say they historical events, it seems wise to held more to church planting sup- include the following introduction. ported by the Brotherhood than to The Schwarzenau Brethren of an individual missionary zeal and 1708 (hereafter called ―Brethren‖) social concerns beyond everyday originated nearly two hundred contact. It was not until the mid- years after the Anabaptists of 1800s that the Brethren adopted 1525 (hereafter called the then-prevalent mission per- CHARACTERIZATION OF THE 3 HISTORIC PEACE CHURCHES 5 spective, resulting, in part, in the meetinghouse. The , on Old Order separation of the 1880s. the other hand experienced some Although there has always been loss of numbers through Brethren interaction between the Anabap- missionary zeal—at Kreyfeld, tists and the Brethren, following Friesland, and in the Pennsyl- the development of the church vania Colony. schools and home schooling among Some might hold that recent the and Conservative Men- interaction between the Brethren nonites in the 1940s and 1950s and the Conservative Anabaptists and among the Old German Bap- represented a revival of former tist Brethren in the 1970s there zeal among the Old German Bap- developed, as a result of this inter- tist Brethren rather than an adop- action, a greater adoption of Con- tion of Anabaptist ways. However, servative Anabaptist features by already in 1713 in Alexander the Old German Baptist Brethren. Mack‘s Answers to Eberhard Gru- This included an element of ber’s Ground Searching Questions, greater conservatism in dress and Mack spoke of the Anabaptist practice across the brotherhood Mennonites as ―now-deteriorated with a greater demand for stan- Baptists‖ observing that they had dardization of practice ―deteriorated in doctrine and life‖ (characteristic of Conservative from the foundational Anabaptists Mennonites and Amish). The two hundred years before Brethren also learned from the (Question Number 33). As Breth- Conservative Anabaptists a per- ren zeal appeared, Anabaptist zeal sonal outreach and mission. An had already waned. important influence by the Con- The characterization of the servative Anabaptists upon the Quakers (The Religious Society of Brethren, along with missionary Friends) as political activists is zeal, was a concern for social jus- suitable, both in their early his- tice, the two often going hand in tory and in recent years. Their hand. origins were based on an activist There is ample evidence of Ana- stance against then-current Eng- baptist/Brethren interaction in the lish government. Their peace early seventeen hundreds. The stance in recent times has been Brethren were beneficiaries of based not on non-resistance as Mennonite charities and social taught by so much as on an concern both in Germany and in activist stand against war as a Friesland. In 1720, twenty Breth- means of resolving human conflict. ren families, including Alexander The Quakers have promoted the Mack, Sr., left Schwarzenau to concept of pacifism as opposed to settle at the Mennonite village of biblical non-resistance and the Surhuisterveen in Friesland. The concept of ―just war‖ verses an Brethren worshipped in a house ―unjust war.‖ The Quakers were across the street from a Mennonite champions of the anti-slavery 6 The Testimony March, 2015 movement, first in England and a few of Zwingli‘s students includ- later in the United States of Amer- ing (1491–1529), ica. They have been in the fore- (1498–1526), and front of activism for human rights. Felix Manz (1498–1527) adopted While emphasis varies among adult ―‖ (by pouring, not their Yearly Meetings, the Quak- immersion). These students broke ers often take the activist stance with Zwingli over their more strict to promote their social and politi- adherence to biblical teaching. cal agendas. Progenitors of the Instead of the Anabaptist prac- Brethren were influenced by tice of pouring water from a Quaker thought and may have pitcher thus ―baptizing‖ consent- had direct contact with William ing adults upon their ―Confession Penn (1644–1718) when he trav- of Faith,‖ the Brethren baptized elled through Germany and Hol- by immersion. This difference in land in 1671 and 1677 recruiting mode has distinguished the Breth- German sectarians to settle his ren from the Anabaptists to the colony in the New World. Influ- present. Early Anabaptists strictly ence upon the Brethren adhered to a life of holi- by Quakerism came ness within a com- through the roots From their beginning munity. The of early Anabap- which molded in 1708, the Brethren tists were sub- early Breth- shared with the Ana- jected to in- ren thought tense persecu- and prac- baptists the Two King- dom concept through a tion resulting tice—an influ- often in mar- ence often dis- fellowship community. tyrdom as a re- paraged by Ana- sult of the various baptist writers. Inquisitions, especially The Anabaptists, more fa- by the Spanish Inquisitors. Sur- miliar to the Brethren than the vival was the principal goal of the Quakers, were characterized in early Anabaptists. The possibility the beginning of their history by ―a of the return of persecution is still return‖ to biblical roots in the Renaissance Period, a period of very much on the thought of Con- intellectual, religious, and political servative Anabaptists. turmoil. Students of Ulrich End time prophecy is not of in- Zwingli in Zurich, at terest to most Conservative Ana- the dawn of the sixteenth century baptists. Conservative Anabap- were influenced by the then- tists are largely amillennial in current wave of intellectualism theology (not understanding the which originated in Florence, Italy millennium to be a part of end and by the thought and writings of times). Writing on Desiderius Erasmus. At that time ―Dispensationalism‖ in the six vol- CHARACTERIZATION OF THE 3 HISTORIC PEACE CHURCHES 7 ume Mennonite Encyclopedia, lieved in the millennium, and (Volume VI, page 240–241), David whoever believes in it is no Men- Ewert (1922–2010) states, nonite.‖ Janzen states further, ―Dispensationalism has its roots in ―The modern conservative groups the teachings of John N. Darby... of Mennonites, who have had little (who) became a leader in the so- contact with modern theological called Plymouth Brethren move- influences, such as the Old Order ment. [The teachings of Darby Mennonites, Old Order Amish, were promoted by C. I. Scofield in Conservative Amish, Church of his Bible with marginal commen- God in Christ Mennonites, and the tary, popular among the Old Ger- conservative Manitoba groups, man Baptist Brethren in the past have remained relatively un- century]. According to Darby‘s dis- touched by modern chiliasm. It is pensationalism, the church is seen largely those Mennonites influ- as an ‗interruption,‘ a parenthesis, enced by Bible Institutes and semi- in God‘s plan for Israel…(I)t as- naries who are now teaching mil- serts that Jesus came to establish lennialism among the more pro- the Kingdom of Israel. The Gospel gressive Mennonite groups.” preached by Jesus was a gospel of The teaching of amillennialism an earthly Jewish kingdom…‖ An- versus millennialism is a major other implication is that ―the feature distinguishing conserva- teachings of Jesus (Sermon on the tive Anabaptists from the Breth- Mount, parables, the ethical teach- ren, the latter continually antici- ings of Jesus, etc.) are ‗kingdom pating the imminent return of the truths‘ and therefore do not apply Lord. Focus on social injustices directly to the church age and the (including persecution and martyr- kingdom—the millennium.‖ Ewert dom) instead of the triumphant concludes, ―In North America dis- victorious return of the Lord is a distinguishing element separating pensationalism [along with its mil- Anabaptist social justice from a lennial teaching] made deep in- life of holiness in preparation for roads into Mennonite churches the Lord’s return for His saints as through non-Mennonite literature Brethren hold. Characterization of and prophetic conferences, and the Anabaptists with ―social jus- through non-Mennonite ‗Bible col- tice‖ has been a later adoption. leges and seminaries…‘ ‖ [An exten- Because of their early history of sive discussion on millennialism persecution, the Anabaptists soon (under Chiliasm) and the Conser- departed from interaction with vative Anabaptist teaching of society and withdrew to be called amillennialism may be found in ―The Quiet in the Land,‖ often The Mennonite Encyclopedia, Vol- meeting in secret and on the se- ume I, Pages 557–560 written by cluded back streets of cities of the Henry H. Janzen.] A Janzen Netherlands. This was to avoid quote: ― never be- persecution which seemed to be 8 The Testimony March, 2015 more imminent to them than the world unto holiness in preparation return of the Lord. The Dutch for the soon-coming of their Lord. Mennonites were liberal in protec- These critical distinctions are tion and provision for the Breth- subtle but fundamental doctrinal ren when the latter came under differences which we as Brethren persecution, sharing prison minis- need to ponder and understand try with Brethren when the Sol- when considering Brethren rela- ingen Brethren suffered for their tionships and interactions with faith. Mennonites interceded with the two other Peace Churches. governments to free Brethren from Although the founding Brethren slavery—both in behalf of the Sol- showed some evidence of political ingen Brethren and in the case of activism, (notably Alexander five Brethren enslaved on a galley Mack, Senior and Junior, Christo- on the Mediterranean. pher Sauer, Senior and Junior, [Durnbaugh, Donald F., Fruit of John Jacob Price, Michael Franz, the Vine, pages 51–59.] The Breth- and others) political activism has ren were willing to receive the never been prominent among the charities of the Mennonite social agenda. In return, the Brethren showed more zeal in making con- While Quakers were (and verts—often from the ranks of the Mennonites. Many Brethren fam- are) political activists, and ily names or pedigrees reach back while the Anabaptists did into Anabaptist lines. (and do) emphasize social Brethren teachings regarding the Two Kingdoms will be under- concerns, the Brethren stood by most readers. While have emphasized histori- Quakers were (and are) political cally a life of holiness in activists and while the Anabap- preparation for the tists did (and do) emphasize social concerns, the Brethren have em- Lord’s return. phasized, historically, a life of separation unto holiness—in Brethren and the non-resistant preparation for the Lord‘s immi- peace stance has not been promi- nent return. The Quakers recog- nent among the Quakers. Some of nize the Two Kingdom principle the Anabaptists (especially more out of a desire to improve the progressive Mennonites) have as- worldly kingdom. The Anabaptists sumed the Quaker stance on paci- embrace the Two Kingdom princi- fism while the Conservative Ana- ple out of perceived necessity for baptists and Brethren have shared survival facing impending martyr- the non-resistant perspective. Pro- dom. The Brethren hold to the Two gressive Brethren groups have Kingdom teaching of Scripture leaned to pacifism while Conserva- based on separation from the tive Brethren have held to non- A PARABLE OF THE FIREWOOD, GOLD COINS... 9 resistance in time of war—and in A PARABLE OF THE FIRE- all aspects of personal life. WOOD, GOLD COINS, GARDEN The Two Kingdom model held SEEDS, AND FOUR YOUNG by the Conservative Brethren and CHRISTIANS Anabaptists has not been held by the Quakers and Progressive Ana- Please consider the following baptists and Brethren, the latter parable. Once upon a time there taking up the causes of political were four stacks of firewood. activism and social justice—with These were stacks of ash wood; or without non-resistance or paci- cut, hauled out of the woods, split fism. The ―Peace Stand‖ has been and stacked through much toil. variously understood among the The stacks were very tall, and three groups. they were carefully crisscrossed at The Schwarzenau Brethren, the ends to make them very sta- originating two centuries after the ble. Much labor was put into Anabaptists and, being founda- these stacks, and they had sea- tionally influenced in the late sev- soned for months in the woodshed. enteenth century by English Sepa- In fact, the owner was quite proud ratists (Quakers) and Radical Pie- of these stacks of wood. Then, tists (Ernst Christoph Hochmann, something happened: The cold Gottfried Arnold, Johann Arndtz, weather of winter came. It was and others), have held from their time for the stacks of wood to be beginning the Two Kingdom prin- used. Why?? There was much la- ciple, the urgency of the soon- bor, toil, and pride in those stacks return of Christ, and the necessity of wood! But, it was time for them of a life of true vital piety and holi- to be used: used to warm the ness in preparation for Christ‘s house; used to warm the lives of return—whether in death or in the others; used for the purpose for clouds of heaven. The Old German which they had been created. Baptist Brethren have not as- Now, the crisscrossed ends have cribed to political, religious, social, been dismantled and these four or peace activism. They have stacks are in disarray and are maintained the concept of a believ- nearly gone. Don‘t worry, God will ers‘ community supporting those provide more stacks to take their who bring others to the commu- place. If not used for the purpose nity through personal witness. for which they were created, they They attempt to live in obedience will slowly become rotten and be of and unity of purpose, glorifying no value to anyone. God and anticipating the soon- Now picture four tall stacks of return of their Lord. gold coins. These coins were Marcus Miller earned over years of sacrifice through much toil. The stacks were very tall and were in a spe- 10 The Testimony March, 2015 cial container in the bottom of the the lane, so he could make some locked safe. Much labor was put money and also to buy more seeds. into these stacks of gold coins as The stacks of seed packets were they had slowly accumulated in very tall and were in a special the safe. In fact, the owner was clear plastic container with divid- quite proud of these stacks of ers, because seed packets don‘t gleaming gold coins. Then, some- stack very well on their own. thing happened: A need came Much labor was put into these knocking on the door: a neighbor stacks of seed packets and they was in need of daily bread. It was had been ordered from the time for the stacks of gold coins to brightly colored seed catalog that be used. Why?? There was much had arrived in the mailbox. In labor, toil, and pride in those fact, the boy was quite proud of stacks of gold coins! But, it was these tall stacks of seed packets time for them to be used: used to and he would often take them out feed a neighbor and his family; of their container and look at the used to warm and feed the colorful pictures of plants lives of others; used and flowers and read for the purpose for As young, middle- the descriptions of which they had aged, and older the plants they been created. r e p r e s e n t e d . Now the se Christians, are you Then, some- g l e a m i n g letting God use you thing happened: stacks have for the purpose for The warmth of been disrupted which you were spring arrived. from their special created? It was time for the container and are in stacks of garden disarray and are nearly seeds to be used. Why?? gone. Don‘t worry, God will pro- There was much labor, toil, and vide more coins to take their place. pride in these tall stacks of seed If not used for the purpose for packets on the shelf! But, it was which they were created, they time for them to be used. It was could be stolen and fall into the time for them to be planted in the hands of evil men or slowly be- warm soil and die so they could come corroded and be of no value bring forth fruit. It was time for to anyone. them to be used to feed the family Please consider another word- and the needs of neighbors; used picture: Four tall stacks of garden for the purpose for which they seeds sat in a clear plastic divider had been created. Now these col- on the shelf in the garage. A orful stacks have been disrupted young boy worked hard all sum- from their special plastic con- mer, growing vegetables and sell- tainer on the shelf and most of ing them at the stand at the end of the packets have been ripped A PARABLE OF THE FIREWOOD, GOLD COINS... 11 open and used. Don‘t worry, God and suffer for His Name; some will provide more stacks to take near home, and others far away. their place. If not used for the Why?? These young Christians purpose for which they were cre- were seemingly the result of many ated, they could slowly become hours of training, prayer and moldy in the humid garage and be tears! They were very loved and of no value to anyone. needed members of the family! Now comes the final part of this But now, it was time for them to parable. Please consider four be used for the purpose for which young Christians: two young men they had been created; to be used and two young women. These for God‘s kingdom and His pur- youth were raised in four different poses. It was time for them to be homes and entered life as little fully surrendered to God‘s call and babies, screaming with clenched die to self and bear fruit to His fists as they entered this cold honor and glory. It was time for world. They were carefully fed them to be taken out of the quiver; and clothed by loving parents for and as strong, straight arrows, to many, many years. They were be launched into the mission they trained in the Ways of God and were given by God. Don‘t worry, learned to love His Word and seek God will provide more young men His Will. They confessed saving and women to take their place. If faith in the Lord Jesus at a young not used by God for the purpose age and asked for baptism. These for which they were created, it is parents were very pleased with possible for them to become luke- their children and enjoyed their warm and bear very little fruit to time with them. They had many His honor and glory. memories of their first steps, those In reflecting on this parable, am bike wrecks when they tried bicy- I letting God use me for the pur- cling without training wheels for pose for which I was created? As the first time, and those little young, middle-aged, and older voices learning to sing ―Jesus Christians, are you letting God Loves Me.‖ They had gone use you for the purpose for which through many challenges as chil- you were created? dren, learning to give up self as ―What shall I render unto the the Holy Spirit called them softly to follow Jesus. They had matured Lord for all his benefits toward into young adults and learned to me? I will take the cup of salva- lean on Jesus through their trials tion, and call upon the name of the and mistakes of young adulthood. Lord.‖ (Psalm 116:12–13) Their mothers and fathers had In Jesus‘ Name, grown attached to them. Then something happened: The warmth Michael Cook of the Holy Spirit reached their young hearts, calling them to work 12 The Testimony March, 2015 MY EXPERIENCE WITH lish, and although my English is THE HOLY SPIRIT quite fine, I never before under- stood the words I heard this clear. Editors Note: Jonathan Minko We read the I Corinthians, and and his wife Carolyn, live in Mu- it was like if I never heard it dif- nich, Germany. They grew up ferent, and never understood it knowing nothing about God. After different, although I till then had experiencing the challenges of life, only read this part of the Holy and believing they were on a path Scriptures in German. to destruction, they began calling It filled me, and all I am, and I out to a God they knew nothing of. felt this warmth in me, and every- This was followed by a search where around me... through the Bible, where they Then we went to the Feetwash- found the God they were seeking. ing, Men and Women separately. Using the technology available to Before I was a bit worried how it them, they began a search of Chris- would be, as never before a sister tianity, and found that there are had presented me this holy service. But when she kneeled before me, still people who practice non- and I put my feet into the cool, resistance, the sanctity of mar- fresh water, it felt so familiar. riage, and modesty in dress and It was pure, honest, and true. I lifestyle. When they heard that one knew this service is a great service of our brethren would be close to that another sister can do on me, their area, they asked if they would to wash my feet, and all worries be willing to bring the communion were washed away. When this sister into their home. Some time after dried my feet with the warm and this took place, we received this soft towel, it was if I was not the testimony from Carolyn, with per- same one than before. mission to print it, if we felt to: Without worries, I washed her feet, and it also didn‘t feel strange My experience with the or uncomfortable at all. It was the Holy Spirit most normal in the world, to do this service, something I never felt When the dear Brother and Sister before. from America visited us, we cele- The Brethren were still doing brated the Lord‘s Supper. their feetwashing, when we Sisters In the beginning we read the silently ended our washing. The Scriptures together, and from the brethren spoke a lot, but those beginning I felt a warm and words also sounded so familiar to heartly feeling in me. me. I heard them, like if it would It was like a hug from a beloved have been so since I could think. person, but much warmer, deeper, The Word of the Bible, which we and more loving, than any hug then read were not unfamiliar to from a human being can ever be. me, although I never before heard This feeling came deep from the them like this. A piece of unleav- inside. We read the Bible in Eng- ened bread never tasted so good, MY EXPERIENCE WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT 13 and never before a sip of wine showed me this was what I was tasted sweeter. This experience looking for all my life, to be in a has changed me, my view on the deep relation with my Creator, world, and somehow also my spirit and this day I knew what it means and my understanding of love, be- to feel His strengthening love and cause I never before had experi- forgiveness. enced this act of deep devoted love to another person like in these Carolyn Minko moments. This day also changed my faith. It changed me. It once again 14 The Testimony March, 2015 THE QUENCHING OF But like the desperate people we THIRST are, we simply try it all again. We claim to be unable to under- Thirst. We have all experienced stand a person who is addicted to it in some way. a substance or activity. It‘s not Physically, it reveals itself by socially acceptable to admit our an intense desire for water. We propensity to fixate on the thing can attempt to quench it with a that brings a brief satisfaction. variety of beverages like coffee, tea, or soda. But try as we might, Rather, we attempt to portray a no liquid other than water will lack of desire for more. The façade actually satisfy thirst. Even car- we want the world to see is an in- bonated water is little more than dividual who is in and of itself a nuisance to the truly thirsty fully content with present circum- individual. stances. Spiritually, it manifests itself in Even as Christians, this is a many ways. A person who has guard no one wants to let down. never found the source of living We gravely quote I Timothy 6:6 water will sense the need for it and proclaim ourselves content without even knowing what they with no desire for more. Yet, the are searching to find. You know thirst remains. The questions the feeling, too. It‘s that desire for come. Could my walk with God be, something more. It‘s what makes I can‘t put my finger on it, but us always look ahead or back in- somehow…more? How do I find stead of living where God has more meaning in the life I lead? placed us at this moment. It‘s the My relationships with others are, feeling that complete satisfaction well, not enough. The closest of is just beyond our grasp. friends just never quite under- We find ourselves in the shoes stand, no matter how hard they of the Preacher, searching out one try. thing after another. One person How, then, do we quench our will search for it in their work. thirst? Our answer is given by Je- The next tries to find it in food. sus, in John 7:37–38: ―…Jesus Another looks for it on the top of a stood and cried, saying, If any mountain. Like Solomon, we man thirst, let him come unto me, search for satisfaction in laughter, and drink. He that believeth on possessions, alcohol, and people. me, as the scripture hath said, out We end up coming to the conclu- of his belly shall flow rivers of liv- sion that it is all vanity. Worth- ing water.‖ less! Not one thing we tried came Don‘t miss the fact that He stood even close to quenching our thirst. and cried. He feels our desperation THE QUENCHING OF THIRST 15 and longs to satisfy our desire for Drink in His peace. Decisively fill more. Jesus intended His people to your heart and soul with it. Above hear this statement. He didn‘t say all, drink in His salvation. it as an off-hand comment for the He has promised a blessing on ears of a few but He proclaimed those who thirst: ―Blessed are they loudly it on the greatest day of the which do hunger and thirst after feast of tabernacles, where many, righteousness: for they shall be many would hear. filled.‖ (Matthew 5:6) Come unto Me and drink. It is Physical thirst cannot be here, at the side of Jesus where quenched with liquids other than we discover our thirst was never water. Similarly, counterfeits can- a curse but a blessing. It was not not quench spiritual thirst but a thing to be ashamed of, but to the pursuit of them reveals the be thankful for, because it drew desire. us to Him. It is here we find this Next time you see an alcoholic; promise true: ―But whosoever don‘t view him as a weak man drinketh of the water that I shall with no self-control, but a thirsty give him shall never thirst; but one. When you see an obese the water that I shall give him woman, look in her eyes and con- shall be in him a well of water sider ways to introduce her to the springing up into everlasting source of the water that quenches life.‖ (John 4:14) thirst. Both the person, aged be- When we have tasted of this yond their years by the use of water and found ourselves, though meth, and the one who greedily once satisfied, thirsty again, it is a cue for us to return and drink. heaps possessions to himself are Maybe you have found yourself thirsty. thirsty while drinking at the foun- Thirsty and weary from search- tain of living water. Drink more ing for living water. deeply. The desire for more, espe- It was to the thirsty that Jesus cially the desire for a closer walk said these words: ―Come unto me, with God is a gift from Him. all ye that labour and are heavy laden, Stop pursuing other sources of and I will give you rest. Take my yoke satisfaction. If you were a jeweler upon you, and learn of me; for I am in pursuit of diamonds and found meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall an endless cache of the purest dia- find rest unto your souls.‖ (Matthew monds ever seen by man, would 11:28–29) you continue to search? With a Diane Bowman believing heart of faith, drink in His promises. Drink in His love. 16 The Testimony March, 2015 REPENTANCE IN 2015 whom we have had so much con- tact with. Some will say, ―Why One of the most difficult things repent? I live a good life. I am not to do in formulating an article is to guilty of very many wrong doings. choose a title that may possibly There is time.‖ provoke interest. We look at the Let us cover a few areas of doc- calendar, and observing that the trine in the following paragraphs month of January will soon be that may help to clarify why we over, and it almost makes us re- need repentance. consider and retitle this as After the fall of Adam in the ―Procrastination.‖ It makes us con- garden, man became separated scious of the fact that one of the from God. There was no way he things which is so easy to put off could be with God. There was a and leave to a future date is re• gulf in between. Men as individu- pentance. als may not have been as wicked We remember, as a youth, of as they could become, but they hearing the end times discussed were still undone creatures and as by the brethren. They would talk far from God as they could be. about the formation of Israel as a They were without hope. Condem- nation; the coming of Jesus Christ nation because of sin was placed for His Bride, the Church, the de- upon man so that he would die struction of the forces of the ene- both physically and spiritually. mies of Israel in Ezekiel 38 and There was nothing man could or 39; and the confederation of na- can do of himself to become recon- tions under the antichrist. It did- ciled to God. He was depraved. n‘t seem possible then that 2015 The doctrine of depravity does not would roll around and we would deal with how sinful we are, but it still be here. But there is a nation deals with the position or state of Israel. There is talk of a world that we are in. Man is under the government. The monetary system Adamic nature. In Galatians 3:22 is changing rapidly. The world is we read, ―But the Script u r e yearning for a ruler who will have hath concluded all un- the answers to its problems. d e r sin.‖ This doesn‘t leave any- But why doesn‘t Jesus come to one out. God says this through His take us home? He may before this Word, and anything under sin is is ever printed. The answer is lost. found in II Peter 3. We will try to As depravity is a subject of its clarify it later in this article. own, we will not endeavor to sepa• If possible we would like to di- rate the different aspects of being rect this message toward youth, under sin, only that because of but also to any who are not in a Adam, mankind has a sin nature, saving relationship with God and is separated from God. Look through Jesus Christ. Our hearts in Romans 3:23, ―For all have go out to these people, many of sinned, and come short of the REPENTANCE IN 2015 17 glory of God.‖ Alright then, by be- Israel, and strangers from the ing under sin, and as God will not covenants of promise, having no allow sin under any circumstances hope, and without God in the to enter heaven, man, by being world.‖ But look at the wonderful, sinful, cannot enter there. He is glorious hope found in verse 13. lost and without hope. He is spiri- ―But now in Christ Jesus ye who tually dead. He is in the same po- sometimes were far off are made sition as the vilest of men. We can nigh by the blood of Christ.‖ talk about the wickedness of sinful Jesus Christ is the only answer men, but dear ones, we are going to depraved man. God loves the to the destruction of hell with lost but because of the disobedi- them if we don‘t repent. ―The ence of Adam we are lost without wages of sin is death.‖ Man is un- Jesus Christ. der the power of Satan. What is We all have a record before God. worse than being lost? Picture be- When God examines the record of ing totally lost in the woods for man He finds nothing good about several days. It would be ter- man, because the sin result- rible. But that is ing from the fall of where we are Adam has been without Christ. There is no remission imputed to man. Think of it. Men became LOST! LOST! of sins even in bap- guilty before Me LOST?? tism, unless we God because How hopeless! truly repent. t h e y w e r e But that is Adam‘s posterity where we are and so must be de- when in the state of clared guilty, and spiri- sinfulness and depravity. tual death was sentenced upon Condensing these doctrines into man, which in turn affected physi- one article is impossible, and so cal death. Imputation is also a the aim will only be to cover a few huge subject within the Word of areas, as we do want to spend God. Study it out. Men were guilty more time on repentance. But of Adam‘s sin when they were God loved the lost. Read John born. But because of His love for 3:16. He provided a way that the us, He was willing to impute the lost could be redeemed through sin of man upon His only Son Je- the life, and death, and resurrec- sus Christ, and He bore it for us. tion of His dear Son Jesus Christ. He paid the price for us. A graphic In Ephesians 2:12, we read of illustration of it is found in Isaiah the hopelessness of depraved man. 53. He took our sins upon Himself Paul, in addressing the Gentiles in and died on the cross in our place particular, said ―That at that time so that the penalty could be paid. ye were without Christ, being Think of it. The very God who cre- aliens from the commonwealth of ated us…died for us. He then rose 18 The Testimony March, 2015 from the grave that we might live. how great the grace of God is, He sent His Holy Spirit into the against Whom he has sinned. Af- world, and to those who believe, ter we realize what God has done He imputes His own righteousness for us, we will then have a definite into their very life and being. By sorrow for our sins. We will see being made righteous through His how righteous and holy God is. merit, we then have right to eter- Man must be drawn to repentance nal life. by God. Let us read II Timothy There are four steps here that 2:25. ―In meekness instructing are interesting. those that oppose themselves; if 1. Because of the sin of Adam, God peradventure will give them God imputed death upon man. repentance to the acknowledging 2. Because of His love for man He of the truth.‖ There is no remis- imputed the sin of man upon sion of sins even in baptism His Son Jesus Christ and Jesus unless we truly repent. Also in paid the price. Romans 2:4 we read, ―Or despisest 3. We must believe that God did thou the riches of his goodness these things, and we must re- and forbearance and long- ceive Jesus Christ as Lord and suffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to Master by believing and obey- repentance?‖ ing His Word. Now we go back to the question 4. God will then impute His right- of why doesn‘t Jesus come to take eousness unto us. us home? May we turn to II Pe- Read the whole chapter of Ephe- ter 3 and read it. We plead with sians 2. But unless we repent and those who are lost to read each turn to God, the cross of Jesus Christ verse carefully and get the mean- and His substitutionary death will ing of this part of God‘s Word. avail us nothing. Heredity will not This chapter denotes the very day enhance our position, because God in which we are living. In verse 4, looks at us as sons of Adam. scoffers are saying, ―Where is the In simple terms, repentance promise of his coming? for since means a change of mind from sin the fathers fell asleep all things and toward God. True, we must continue as they were from the have faith, as it is the prerequisite beginning of the creation.‖ But of salvation, but repentance is dear ones, they are willingly igno- bound up within faith so that they are inseparable, because it takes a rant of the facts presented in the measure of faith to even repent. ensuing verses. God is longsuffer- But let us be careful in trying to ing. He has all the time in the talk someone into repenting, be• world. With Him a day is as a cause repentance can never attain thousand years and a thousand to its fullest meaning unless the years is as a day. He is not slack repentant sinner fully realizes concerning His promises. His REPENTANCE IN 2015 19 ways are different from our ways. cause God loves us and wants all If someone has wronged us, we to repent and be saved. Doubtless want restitution right away, but some will, but many will not. not God. He loves us; He doesn‘t Let us look for a new heaven want us to perish. We are the rea- and a new earth. Then again in son why He has not sent His Son verse 15 we read of the longsuffer- into the world to take the re- ing of God, because He wants peo- deemed home. There are still ple to be saved. Paul also wrote of those that He wants to come and the salvation in Christ Jesus and that He knows will come to repen- of God‘s patience in waiting for tance. I have never had these more to be saved. We pray that verses strike me as hard as they our young people will not be the did last week when a few breth- scoffers who never come, other- ren were discussing repentance. wise they will go to their own de- Dear ones, may the meaning of struction. There is a strong admo- this chap- nition to believers in verse 17 to In simple terms, ter pene- not follow the error of the wicked, trate into and to not fall from their own repentance stedfastness. our very We are being repetitious, but we means a minds, and solemnly plead with our young change of mind may we people to be serious in considering r e a l i z e from sin and your destiny. If you have convic- more fully toward God. tion in your heart that you are what God being led by God unto repentance, has done we pray that you will yield. We and is doing for us. We ask our know not the hour when the Lord young people to take time and will come, but we honestly feel the make a study of this chapter. time is here, and we know that Jesus is coming again. It vividly God is not slack concerning His and forcefully says so in II Peter promises, but only wants more to 3:10. Then where will we be? The repent. May this year be a year of things we thought were so valu- many, many ! able will all be burned up. All the And dear ones, to those of you works we are doing for the flesh who are born again believers and will have no value. looking for that blessed Let us be ready for that great hope…‖grow in grace, and in the day. Verse 11 commands us to be knowledge of our Lord and Savior living godly, consistent lives, in all Jesus Christ. To him be glory both holiness. Let us look for the day of now and forever. Amen.‖ the Lord. It is coming. We can read of prophesies that have been Donald Beachler fulfilled, and this one will be also. The only reason it hasn‘t is be- 20 The Testimony March, 2015 ALLEGIANCE AND TRUST busy life we have, it is easy to give I pledge allegiance to the God of our allegiance to other exploits of creation, our Heavenly Father, life. We can get caught up with and the Lord Jesus Christ, His sport events, or just building our Son, and the Holy Spirit, God‘s own empire. Our allegiance to God presence within us, indivisible and must come first. I think it‘s all Holy, with His grace and favor right to give respect to the repub- given to us all. lic also, but our allegiance must be This morning as I was reading, to God. Our nation has been a the Holy Spirit brought the word great blessing to us. Thank God ―allegiance‖ to my mind. I say the for it and pray for our leaders. Holy Spirit because I have not Along with our allegiance I be- lieve there is another word of im- read nor thought of this word my- portance. We should ―trust‖ God self for a long time. That‘s how the completely and without reserva- Spirit‘s presence works in our tion. Even our money is labeled lives. He is among us. I think God ―In God We Trust.‖ The song says, has put a spark of the Holy Spirit ―Trust and obey, for there‘s no in every human being and we can other way, to be happy in Jesus, ignore it (quench it) or expand its but to trust and obey.‖ We need to presence and power greatly. When have a very deep belief that God Jesus went away He told His disci- can help us and will do good ples that when the Holy Spirit things for us when we trust Him came on them, they would do first. Trusting Him that all things greater things than He had done. work together for good. (Romans (John 14:12) Through the Holy 8:28) Even bad things many times Spirit‘s presence and power we bring good results. can learn and do many good In summary: While God wants things. us to enjoy the good things and Allegiance is a relationship to a occasions of life that He has given superior; fidelity, devotion, loyalty. us, we must give Him allegiance God‘s desire is for us to give Him and priority in all we do and say. our allegiance in all and every We come second. And remember, facet of our lives. In Luke 14:26, His yoke is easy and His burden is and many other places, the Scrip- light. Praise the Lord! tures imply that our allegiance to Ralph E. Garber God should supersede our devotion to others and other things. In this WAITING ON GOD: FOR ALL SAINTS 21 WAITING ON GOD: shall help to bear each other‘s bur- FOR ALL SAINTS dens, and so fulfill the law of Andrew Murray Christ. Let us now, in our meditation of There will be introduced into today, each one forget himself, to our waiting on God that element think of the great company of God, of unselfishness and love, which is saints throughout the world, who the path to the highest blessing, are all with us waiting on Him. and the fullest communion with And let us all join in the fervent God. Love to the brethren and love to God are inseparably linked. In prayer for each other, ―Let none God, the love to His Son and to us that wait on Thee be ashamed.‖ are one: ―That the love wherewith Just think for a moment of the Thou hast loved Me, may be in multitude of waiting ones who them.‖ In Christ, the love of the need that prayer; how many there Father to Him, and His love to us, are, sick and weary and solitary, are one: ―As the Father loved me, to whom it is as if their prayers so have I loved you.‖ In us, He are not answered, and who some- asks that His love to us shall be times begin to fear that their hope ours to the brethren: ―As I have will be put to shame. And then, loved you, that ye love one an- how many servants of God, minis- other.‖ All the love of God, and of ters or missionaries, teachers or Christ, are inseparably linked workers, of various name, whose with love to the brethren. And how hopes in their work have been dis- can we, day by day, prove and cul- appointed, and whose longing for tivate this love otherwise than by power and blessing remains unsat- daily praying for each other? isfied. And then, too, how many, Christ did not seek to enjoy the who have heard of a life of rest Father‘s love for Himself; He and perfect peace, of abiding light passed it all on to us. All true and fellowship, of strength and seeking of God and His love for victory, and who cannot find the ourselves, will be inseparably path. With all these, it is nothing linked with the thought and the but that they have not yet learned love of our brethren in prayer for the secret of full waiting upon them. God. They just need what we all ―Let none that wait on Thee be need, the living assurance that ashamed.‖ Twice in the psalm waiting on God can never be in David speaks of his waiting on vain. Let us remember all who are God for himself; here he thinks of in danger of fainting or being all who wait on Him. Let this weary, and all unite in the cry, page take the message to all ―Let none that wait on Thee be God‘s tried and weary ones, that ashamed!‖ there are more praying for them If this intercession for all who than they know. Let it stir them wait on God becomes part of our and us in our waiting to make a waiting on Him for ourselves, we point of at times forgetting our- 22 The Testimony March, 2015 selves, and to enlarge our hearts, WHAT IS YOUR LIFE? and say to the Father, ―These all wait upon Thee, and Thou givest ―For what is your life? It is even them their meat in due season.‖ a vapour, that appeareth for a lit- Let it inspire us all with new tle time, and then vanisheth away.‖ (James 4:14) courage—for who is there who is What is my life? It is so fleet- not at times ready to faint and be ing, so short in contrast to vast weary? ―Let none that wait on eternity. Thee be ashamed‖ is a promise in What is my life? Is it just made a prayer, ―They that wait on Thee up of things? Matching clothes, shall not be ashamed‖! From good food, a decorated home? A many and many a witness the cry pretty face, a clean vehicle, laugh- comes to every one who needs the ter and a good time? Perfect chil- help, brother, sister, tried one, dren, spotless floors, saying just ―Wait on the LORD; be of good the right thing? courage, and He shall strengthen What is my life? There may be your heart; wait, I say, on the something done today that will be LORD.‖ reflected in eternity. We must lay Blessed Father, We humbly up treasures in heaven. beseech Thee, Let none that wait If all the ―things‖ in my life are on Thee be ashamed; no, not one. my focus, then I am laying up only Some are weary, and the time of earthly treasures. Only seeking to waiting appears long. And some impress and please the other fleet- are feeble, and scarcely know how ing mortals around me. How fool- to wait. And some are so entan- ish! How sickeningly empty and gled in the effort of their prayers shallow. and their work, they think that But there are souls to save! they can find no time to wait con- There‘s higher work to be done! tinually. Father! teach us all how There are songs to sing. There are to wait. Teach us to think of each lessons to be learned and taught. other, and pray for each other. There are battles to be fought! Teach us to think of Thee, the And to be won! What is my life? It‘s not time to God of all waiting ones. Father! slumber and sleep…to relax and Let none that wait on Thee be rest in ease. NO! We must live on ashamed. For Jesus‘ sake. Amen. purpose! Everyday. Today. Right “My soul, wait thou only upon now. God!” On! Let all the soul within you “Let none that wait on Thee For the truth’s sake go abroad: be ashamed.” Psalm 25:3 Strike! Let every nerve and sinew Following King Jesus! Tell on ages—tell for God. Caleb L. Jenkins Melina K. Flory

TO OUR YOUNG PARENTS 23 Home & Family

TO OUR YOUNG PARENTS I have noticed that at the age of four a child can usually talk One of the most precious gifts enough to show what a lot they that God gives us is the gift of chil- already know and have observed. dren. Do we give this gift as seri- They imitate others, and espe- ous thought as we should? I‘m cially their parents! So it behooves sure sometimes we do not realize us to be very careful of our actions what all is expected of us from and our words. God as we bring children into this sinful world. The fathers are sometimes very Do we pray for our unborn chil- busy and not around the house. So dren? Are we doing the best we the mothers have a lot of opportu- can before they are even born to nity to influence a child‘s personal- insure their safety and to love ity. God has given mothers a spe- them? It does not take very long, cial gift of Motherly Love, I be- after they are born, to acquire lieve. I have talked to many people habits. Just notice how quickly who remember their mothers with they respond to their parents. As a special love. we love them and talk to them, Children usually love to be read they respond so fast! to. I think it is wise to read to I don‘t think it takes long to feel them at a early age. Take time to neglected if they are not taken read to them. Also to answer their care of. Each one soon has their many questions. You will never own personality. There are ques- regret the time you spend with tions as to how much they inherit them, as time passes quickly. A and how much is from the family soft answer, with love, ascends life they learn. into Heaven. I feel this with all my We should be very careful to heart! discipline them at a very early This is written with a heart of age. But we must try to do this love for all you young parents. If I with much love and prayer. A cer- could just help one person to work tain body of Christian believers harder and pray more, it is worth (more then one body, really) be- it all. lieve that at the age of three a God bless you dear parents. child should show signs of know- Esther Lavy ing what is right and what is wrong. 24 The Testimony March, 2015 TRUE REPENTANCE Today in the Body there‘s a sense, we are missing true Repentance, The fear of God is missing in us, many who belong to Christ Jesus, Have many who have come to faith, taken advantage of His Grace? Continuing on in their old behavior; not truly walking with the Savior. Repentance, when it actually starts, continues on in believing hearts, As it produces changes in our lives, as new life in the Savior thrives, As Godly sorrow enters into a heart, from sinful ways we will depart, As we all strive to live out this life, to be like The Lord, Jesus Christ. We need to know when we fail, so The Holy Spirit in us may prevail, Forsaking the old ways of our life, to live the Truths of Jesus Christ, Led by the Spirit who Christ had sent, so in our lives we may repent, To turn away from our old ways, to walk with our Savior all our days. True change doesn‘t come from us, but by the Spirit of Christ Jesus, As we‘re moved by His Spirit within, exposing the truth of all our sin, Moving us to the changes required, to be that person Christ desired, When we accepted His forgiveness, to live for Him in righteousness. True repentance produces change, so we‘re not to ever be the same, When we experience Godly sorrow, change continues into tomorrow, As God‘s Word dwells richly within, God leads us to repent of all sin, To produce all change within our life, all for the glory of Jesus Christ. Bob Gotti 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. Questions: — What is there that Question #1 — What would be the can explain the repentance of Nine- result today, if one man preached such veh? A large and wicked city of three a message in one of our large cities? days journey. (Jonah 3) This repen- Question #2 — Was it the fervent tance was commended by Jesus. passion in the voice of a man who had Notice some observations: just been delivered from a whale? 1. There were not many people Question #3 — Was Jonah‘s skin pleading with the population, but and hair bleached white, as some one man only, preaching but one have suggested, from stomach acids? message. Question #4 — Is it not out- 2. Jonah did not tell them to standing that a heathen king repent, or how to repent. would respond to this, just hearing 3. Jonah did not even give them of it indirectly? any promise of deliverance upon Question #5 — Were men just repenting. more willing to quickly repent 4. Jonah took his declaration, not then, than they are today? to the royal court, but to the Question #6 — Have we each sought streets only. and humbly found…true repentance? GENERAL ITEMS 25 General Items

COMMUNION NOTICES We are asking that each household planning to attend the Conference to March 14, 2015 ...... Dallas, OR March 14, 2015 ...... Morning Star, OH please cooperate with our reservation (at Upper Twin Meetinghouse) process by responding to the items in March 21, 2015 ...... Fall Creek, IN the Information Packet pertaining to the (at Bethel United Methodist Church) plans of each person in their household March 28, 2015 ...... West Manchester, IN by March 28th. Please make use of the April 4, 2015 ...... Fair Haven, KS response address published in the Infor- April 11, 2015 ...... Ellensburg, WA mation Packet. Anyone receiving the April 11, 2015 ...... Mt. Zion, PA packet late or deciding at a later time to April 11, 2015 ...... Salem, OH attend the Conference, should submit the April 18, 2015 ...... Caldwell, ID reservation as soon as their plans are April 18, 2015 ...... Cutler Ridge, IN known, even if it is later than March 28th. April 18, 2015 ...... Shiloh, OH Those who decide to attend at the last April 25, 2015 ...... Bear Creek, OH minute can be accommodated at the April 25, 2015 ...... Sugar Grove, OH Information Desk upon arrival. The May 24, 2015 .....Annual Conference, OH Information Center is located just inside (Cedarville University, Cedarville, OH) the Stevens Student Center on campus and will be open from 2 p.m.to 11 p.m. 2015 ANNUAL CONFERENCE on Friday, May 22nd and will open at 6:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 23rd. All The 2015 Annual Conference of the Old German Baptist -New Conference attendees should go to the Conference, will be held on May 23–26, Information Center upon arrival at the 2015, Lord willing. The Conference will be Conference site. held at Cedarville University, 251 N. Main The first worship service is sched- Street, Cedarville, Ohio 45314. This is uled to begin at 10:00 a.m. on Satur- located approximately 11 miles South of day, May 23rd. Springfield, Ohio on State Route 72. The Communion Committee feels Information packets for the Conference they can accommodate all the members have been distributed to each District Con- who wish to commune, and would like to tact Person. You may also access the Infor- ask that the out-of-state brethren would mation Packet through the OGBBC-NC assist with the serving lines when plac- website. (www.ogbbc.org) The packet in- ing the bread and soup on the table for cludes the following information: The Lord‘‘s Supper. • Directions to the Conference All of us from Kansas are eagerly • Handicap and RV Parking anticipating this brotherhood meeting • Conference Schedule and extend a warm and hearty invita- • Lodging Reservation tion to our dear members, friends and • Meal Reservation all who desire to attend. We look for- • Communion Survey ward to a season of worship and the • Arrival and Check-in opportunity to encourage each other in • Preteens Registration our walk with the Lord. Our prayer is • Young Folks Information that as we labor together, we may show NEW ITEMS forth the Gospel in Love, being found as • Seating change for the Servant body worthy stewards. • Information to access the Volunteer In behalf of the Committee of Arrangements, Sign-up Website Garland Miller, Secretary 26 The Testimony March, 2015 Poems

A BIRD’S LESSON SIGNS OF LOVE A little bird, with feathers brown, God‘s holy Word commands Sat singing on a tree; That Christians all should greet The song was very soft and low, Each with a hand of fellowship But sweet as it could be. And kiss of charity.

And all the people passing by These holy signs of love Looked up to see the bird To every child of God, Whose singing was the sweetest And love by which all men are known Who seek the path He trod. That ever they had heard.

To each let us be true, But all the bright eyes looked in vain; But most of all, to Him For birdie was so small, Who gave for us of all He had; And, with a modest dark brown coat, Our Savior and our Friend! He made no show at all. Dear Jesus, lead us on ―Papa dear,‖ little Gracie said, In paths of peace and love; ―Where can this birdie be? Then, when our time below shall end, If I could only sing like that, Oh, greet us each above! I‘d sit where folks could see.‖ Christian Filbrun ―I hope my little girl will learn

A lesson from that bird, And try to do what good she can— Not to be seen nor heard. OUR GREAT REDEEMER Jesus, Jesus, our Redeemer, ―This birdie is content to sit How you fill our hearts with love, Unnoticed by the way, Mercy, Mercy, beyond measure And sweetly sing his Maker‘s praise, Makes our hearts aglow, aglow. From dawn to close of day. Then we remember how you loved us

And just how much we owe, we owe. ―So live, my child, to do some good,

Let life be short or long; Oh, Father, we long to see you Though people may forget your looks, In that Heavenly home above They‘ll not forget your song.‖ When our troubles will be over —Wooster‘s Reader, 1915 Finally, at last, at last. Selected by In Christian love, Lyle Bowman Rhonda Edgecomb

POEMS 27 OUR GOD LOOKS DOWN I’M SORRY

Our God looks down upon mankind, Be willing to say, ―I‘m sorry,‖ And knows He has a Plan in mind, Though it may not needful seem, A way and end for everyone These words, like oil of gladness Through Jesus Christ His only Son. Will bring a joyful stream. He has a way for us to walk, Galen Mohler A kindly deed and upright talk, A loving heart, a friendly smile, A heart to go the extra mile. WHY ME, LORD? He has a way for us to go Why did you die for me? About our lives while here below. Why save me from hell I deserve? To listen to another‘s care, Why did you build a mansion? Why do you love me? And lift them up to God in prayer. God has an end for everyone, Why did you redeem me? A home beyond the setting sun— Why am I cleansed by your blood? A place to be with Christ our Lord, Why am I your servant? We know this from His written Word. Why am I your child? Why me, Lord? Reuben J Shankster Crystal Peters

SHADOWS OF THE HEART Psalm 91:1 Broken hearts seek the shadows, Seek the dark clouds of despair. Despondency an ebony cloak, drapes itself Around the heart. The mind chides, where is God?

Child of God, He is near, nearer than you think. He purposes the shadow that you seek. For His wing enfolds you, blocking the glare of Harsh reality, of pain, for a season.

He understandings your seekings More than you can fathom, Because He loves to protect and Embrace and cover you with His feathers.

Rest, rest in Him. Snuggle down in the warmth He proves. The shadows you seek are acceptable, needed. Dwell in the shelter of the Most High. Gloria Wright

28 The Testimony March, 2015

ESCAPE II Peter 1

Have you ever wanted to escape? Well do you know it‘s true, That JESUS our Great Master has a special plan for you?

It‘s not romance or lust of eye, or things this flesh might crave, It‘s not through drugs or alcohol; they‘ll lead but to hell and the grave.

It‘s not in busy social life, to flit around without a care; A planned vacation may relax, yet contentment is not found there.

It‘s not escaping cares of life in shopping trips, books, or food; It‘s not escape to fantasy that will do your spirit good.

It‘s not to ―get ahead in life,‖ driven by an inner master; No time to comfort child or spouse, no rest…heading for disaster.

It‘s not retracing pains or ill that‘s happened to you in the fray. It will not help to keep it fresh, and wish it was another way.

But it is by HIS might divine that HE has given us. By the knowledge of HIM who gives ―all things pertaining to life and godliness.‖

And this is truly an escape, a turning from our sin; A choosing of HIS promises that HIS nature divine, we begin.

To partake, oh, not by our own feeble power, nor perfectly today; But by a diligence and faith, by virtue along the way.

And to this virtue we would add knowledge and temperance, Patience, and then godliness (it won‘t come all at once).

But we must keep on adding for we are not yet through. Brotherly kindness and charity, by faith we can gain these, too.

And this is surely sweet release from passion, fear, and pride. Those things which eat the soul within leave empty despair inside.

And we shall never lack for fruit, nor shall we ever fall, If we take JESUS at HIS Word, and prove this all in all.

Catherine Bowser

OBITUARIES 29 WHEN ALL IS DONE When all is done, and my last word is said, And ye who loved me murmur, ―He is dead.‖ Let no one weep for fear that I should know, And sorrow too that ye should sorrow so. When all is done and in the oozing clay, Ye lay this cast-off hull of mine away, Pray not for me, for, after long despair, The quiet of the grave will be a prayer. For I have suffered loss and grievous pain, The hurts of hatred and the world‘s disdain, And wounds so deep that love, well-tried and pure, Had not the pow‘r to ease them or to cure. When all is done, say not my day is o‘er, And that thro‘ night I seek a dimmer shore: Say rather that my morn has just begun— I greet the dawn, and not the setting sun. Paul Laurence Dunbar Obituaries

BAKER — Eldon E., eldest son of a member of the Old German Baptist Fred and Edith Baker, was born April Church, and at the time of his death 30, 1930, in Quinter, Kansas. He was a member of the Cutler Ridge Old peacefully passed from this life at German Baptist Church, N.C. 12:00 p.m. on New Year‘s Day, 2015, Surviving are his wife Betty Rose; at the St. Elizabeth Healthcare Center sons Stanley, with his wife Bonita of in Delphi, Indiana, at the age of 84. Delphi, Indiana, and Nelson, with his His marriage was to Betty Rose Knaus wife Joleen, of Rossville, Indiana; in Knob Noster, Missouri, on August daughter Janice Shrum, with husband 22, 1954, and she survives. James of Lafayette, Indiana; seven Eldon graduated from Quinter High grandchildren: Trent and Melinda School in 1948, received his B.S. from Baker, Todd and Sarah Baker, the University of Kansas in 1952, and Tamara Baker, Amanda and Gary his Doctorate in Family Practice Medi- Smith, Seth and Stephanie Graves, cine in 1955, also from the University Nicholas Baker, and Justin Baker; of Kansas. He practiced family medi- four great-grandchildren: Kimberli cine in Delphi, Indiana from 1958 to Smith, Morgan Baker, Henry Graves, and Isla Baker. 1996. After retiring, he volunteered Also surviving are sisters: Edis Bro- his time seeing patients at the Tippe- vont, Rossville, Indiana, Jean and canoe County Community Health Dale Flora of North Manchester, Indiana, Clinic in Lafayette, Indiana. He gave Jane and Curtis Bennet of Monterey, Cali- his life to the Lord Jesus at a young fornia, and Geraldine and Dean Yoder of age, and remained faithful; he became Delphi, Indiana. 30 The Testimony March, 2015

Eldon was preceded in death by his formerly of St Paris, a brother-in-law parents, his brother Carroll, and a Lowell Yost of Eaton, Ohio, and a sis- brother-in-law, George Brovont. ter-in-law Anna May and Richard Hirt Funeral services were held on Sun- of Troy, Ohio, and many nieces, neph- day, January 4, in the Cutler Ridge ews, and friends. meetinghouse, officiated by the home He was preceded in death by his Brethren. Burial followed in the Cut- father Charlie; mother Nannie Jami- ler Ridge Cemetery, there to await the son; step-mother Mary Jamison; in- first and best resurrection call. fant sister Carolyn; sister-in-law Joyce On behalf of the family, Jamison; brother and sister-in-law Virgil and Norma Dean Jamison; Darrell Boyd brother-in-law Glen Bowman; sister-in

-law and brother-in-law David and JAMISON — Donald Eldon, son of Velma Gish-Yost; and 5 great- Charlie Clarence and Nannie Susan grandchildren. (Beckner) Jamison, was born August Daddy was blessed with good 8, 1937, and died on January 10, health all his life. On Christmas Day, 2015, at the age of 77 years, 5 2014, he was taken to the hospital due months, and 2 days. He was baptized to a stroke and brain tumor. On into the Old German Baptist Breth- Thursday evening, January 8, all life ren Church on October 16, 1955, and support was removed. On Friday, lived faithful until death. On March January 9, the family was blessed to 4, 1956, he was united in marriage to be able to bring Daddy home where he Maxine Bowman from Covington, peacefully passed at 7:55 Saturday Ohio. morning from life into eternity as we Daddy and Mother spent nearly 59 sang songs of comfort and praise years raising children, and dairy around his bedside on a beautiful win- farming. To this union were born ter morning. He was a kind and lov- three sons and two daughters: ing husband, father, and grandfather. Donnie and Tammy Jamison of Ar- He found much comfort and joy among canum, Ohio, Ron and Doneta Jami- his church family. The happiest mo- son of Callaway, Virginia, John and ments of his life were when he was Susan Jamison of Arcanum, Ohio, surrounded by his family. Connie and Floyd Bilbrey of Ar- Funeral service was held on Tues- canum, Ohio, and Bonnie and Chad day, January 13, 2015, at the Painter Kuns of Bringhurst, Indiana. Daddy Creek Old German Baptist meeting and Mother have been blessed with house. Scriptures used by the home 23 grandchildren and 39 great- brethren were III John 4, Psalm 90, grandchildren. Psalm 23, Revelation 6, and Revela- He is survived by a brother Verlin tion 20. Daddy was laid to rest in the Jamison, formerly of Arcanum, a sis- Mote Cemetery near Pitsburg, Ohio, ter Karen and Ronnie Garber of there to await the resurrection morn- Brookville, Ohio, a brother-in-law Nor- ing. He will be greatly missed, but our man and Gladys Bowman of Bradford, loss is his eternal gain! Ohio, a sister-in-law Gladys Bowman, The Family OBITUARIES 31

LANDES — Ruth Anna, 93, of New will stand as an example of godly vir- Carlisle, Ohio, passed away peacefully tue to all who knew her. (John 3:16) Sunday, January 18, 2015, at her She is survived by her husband, home surrounded by her family. She Dennis Landes; sons, Stanley and was born October 28, 1921, at North Judy Landes, Dale and Mary Landes, Manchester, Indiana, the daughter of Stephen and Amy Landes; daughters: the late Glen and Opal (Anderson) Rhonda and Carl Garber, Brenda and Frantz. Randy Shoup, Jane and Kent Filbrun; On October 31, 1943, Ruth was twenty grandchildren; twenty-nine married to Dennis Landes, sharing great-grandchildren; sisters: Velma over 71 years together. and Don Hantelman and Carolyn Dennis and Ruth were baptized into Frantz. the Old German Baptist Brethren In addition to her parents, she is Church on November 15, 1947, in the preceded in death by a son Larry Lan- Maple Grove district. They were called des and a brother Virgil Frantz. to the ministry there on August 7, Funeral services were conducted by 1948, and ordained to the eldership on Howard Montgomery and Kendall April 2, 1960. They lovingly shep- Nicodemus at the Maple Grove herded the Maple Grove district for 30 meetinghouse on January 22. ―To him years. that overcometh will I grant to sit Mom persevered through many with me in my throne, even as I also struggles with her health over the overcame, and am set down with my years, becoming weaker and weaker Father in His throne.‖ (Revelation the past couple of years. She called for 3:21) Lloyd Bayer officiated at the the anointing by the elders on July 30, Burial in the church cemetery. 2012, receiving much comfort. Her life The Family

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