October 2008 – Seek The Old Paths 73

Vol. 19, No. 10 October 2008 DAVID AND THE CHRISTIAN SCHOLARS CONFERENCE Wayne Jackson

he Christian Scholars Conference demonstrated how very far from New esians presents an ecclesiolo - (CSC) convened in June, 2008, on Testament teaching this aggregation gy founded on unity in Christ Tthe campus of David Lipscomb of “elitists” has strayed. rooted in the fullness of God. University in Nashville, . One of the most startling partici - Ephesians builds on the fun - With support from several sister pants was former Abilene Christian damental truth that in schools, e.g., Pepperdine Universi - University student, Jared Cramer. Christ, God has broken down ty, Abilene Christian University, Cramer is currently affiliated with the dividing wall between Oklahoma Christian University, the Anglican (Episcopal) movement Jews and Gentiles and is cre - and , it was the (working toward priesthood). On his ating one new humanity in twenty-eighth annual gathering of blog the “Reverend Cramer” (as he place of the two. After exam - some of the most radically liberal, likes to designate himself) emphati - ining the ecclesiology of Eph - self-designated “scholars” on the cally declares he has abandoned the esians, this paper engages in planet. There were dozens of presen - ideal of “.” a case study on the place of tations (all of which were character - gay, lesbian, bisexual and ized as “high quality” productions), I don’t believe in transgendered (GLBT) delivered by both men and women, Restorationism or Primi - in the Episcopal representing sixty-eight colleges and tivism. I just don’t. It’s not Church. Perhaps a deeper universities, along with twenty-four Biblical, there’s no call to it. I understanding of Paul’s mes - additional institutions. don’t care two bits if today’s sage in Ephesians can lead to The conference was a heteroge - church looks like the first a renewed perspective on the neous blend of sectarian personali - century church, and I don’t issues facing Christians ties (all of whom were identified as think God does (Becoming today. “Christian”), combined with a con - Quicksand). (www.jaredcra- glomerate of digressives who have mer.com/?p=3D297) This may represent an all-time surrendered virtually every vestige historical low as an approach to of interest in the restoration of New The most stunning thing, howev - Paul’s Ephesian letter. Testament . “Restorationism” er, was the topic for which Mr. The material submitted to the is not merely ignored, it is repudiat - Cramer contended, with the obvious CSC (with only a slight alteration to ed emphatically. tolerance of the CSC screening com - accommodate a transition to the The CSC platform affirms that it mittee and/or those affiliated with newer CSC format) is a regurgitation “is dedicated to the virtue of diversity this program. According to an of Cramer’s previously published which expands world-views, fosters abstract that appeared on the Lip - views. His position was set forth in collegiality, demonstrates the highest scomb University website, the an article titled Homosexuality: But quality of scholarship, and provides author’s presentation was titled “One Why? (www.jaredcramer.com/?- opportunity for all Christian schol - New Humanity: Reconsidering p=3D583) ars.” Homosexuality in Light of the Eccle - It was submitted in a more The sacred Scriptures enjoin siology of Ephesians.” The abstract unity; the emerging anti-restora - states: (Continued on page 75) tionists applaud diversity. The lineup Paul’s letter to the Eph - David Lipscomb University … 74 Seek The Old Paths – October 2008

clear that salvation is NOT BY FAITH ONLY.

John 11:25-26, “Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though ANSWERING QUESTIONS he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in ON SALVATION #2 me shall never die. Believest thou this?” everal passages have been set day.” This is all true, but where does it forth by “faith only” advocates in This verse demands belief and say “believeth only.” Notice that it San effort to refute what the Bible connects it to everlasting life, but it says “liveth.” That is, one keeps on teaches concerning faith and obedience. does not say “believe only.” That is living, obeying, the Lord. This is a liv - They suppose these passages support man-made doctrine — the devil’s doc - ing, active, obedient, faith. “Faith their man-made doctrine of “faith only” trine. The Bible certainly teaches sal - only” is a dead, lifeless, inert faith. Of or “faith alone.” We take in hand a brief vation by faith, but not by faith only. course, this verse says nothing about examination of these passages as was All Bible believers accept that faith is “faith only,” making it so that a per - set forth in a letter we received some essential to being saved, but where son will never die. months ago. The following was written does the Bible say one is saved by in answer to this letter. “faith only?” Please list the verse. John 20:31, “But these are writ - —————————————- ten, that ye might believe that Jesus John 6:35, “And Jesus said unto John 6:47, “Verily, verily, I say is the Christ, the Son of God; and that them, I am the bread of life: he that unto you, He that believeth on me believing ye might have life through cometh to me shall never hunger; and hath everlasting life.” his name.” he that believeth on me shall never One must believe on Jesus to This is true. I don’t know anyone thirst.” have everlasting life, but nothing is who denies any of these verses. But, The word “faith” or “believeth” is said about believe only. The word this verse makes it clear that life used for everything that is necessary “only” or “alone” is added by man through his name comes only to in obeying Jesus. It sums up one’s and; therefore, stands condemned by those who keep on believing through total involvement in being saved. To God. The word “believeth” is used to his name. When one keeps on believ - tie the word “only” or “alone” to it, is include ALL that is involved in man’s ing, he keeps on obeying, only then is adding to God’s word. Faith in Jesus response. there life in his name. “Faith only” is is essential to salvation, but nothing not found in this verse. “Faith only” is said in this verse about “faith John 7:38-39, “He that won’t bring life through his name. alone.” Where do you read that in the believeth on me, as the scripture “Faith only” keeps people from ever verse? Multiple verses are offered to hath said, out of his belly shall flow enjoying life through his name. support and defend the man-made rivers of living water. (But this spake “Faith only” is a tragedy to mankind. doctrine of “faith alone,” but not a one he of the Spirit, which they that It nullifies the Lord’s suffering and of them says anything about “faith believe on him should receive: for the death on the old rugged cross. It pre - alone.” These verses make clear that Holy Ghost was not yet [given]; vents one from ever being raised “faith” is essential in being saved, but because that Jesus was not yet glori - with the Lord (in ) to walk a they say nothing about “faith only.” fied.)” newness of life (Rom. 6:3-6). “Faith If you are going to teach “faith This verse says nothing about only” keeps people in their sins only”, then why don’t you give the “believe only.” That is man-made. It’s (James 2:24). verse that says it? You and I both not in the verse. Those who keep on know such a verse is not in the Bible. believing on Jesus, AS THE SCRIP - Acts 10:43, “To him give all the The only time you find the words TURE HATH SAID, out of his belly prophets witness, that through his “faith only” in the Bible is in James shall flow rivers of living water. I’ve name whosoever believeth in him 2:24 and it has the word NOT in never seen rivers of living water shall receive remission of sins.” front of it. What would God have to come out of one’s belly, nor has any - This verse is so true. What a com - say to get you to believe that salva - one else. The phrase “rivers of living fort it is to know that Jesus cares and tion is NOT BY FAITH ONLY? God water” is a figure of speech, where that we can have forgiveness by plainly says it, but you don’t believe one thing is said but something else believing in him. But, this verse does - it. You insist the Bible teaches “faith is intended. In this case, the phrase n’t say anything about “believing alone,” but won’t give the verse that indicates salvation. All should under - only.” This verse says “believeth.” says so. stand that. That is, one who keeps on believing. But notice that Jesus said that It is a faith that performs, acts, obeys. John 6:40, “And this is the will one will only experience salvation if It is a living faith. “Faith only” is a of him that sent me, that every one he DOES what the Scripture says. dead faith. It does not perform, act, which seeth the Son, and believeth The Scripture nowhere says any - obey. One will never receive remis - on him, may have everlasting life: thing about “faith only” except in sion of sins by “faith only.” and I will raise him up at the last James 2:17,24 and there it makes it October 2008 – Seek The Old Paths 75

Acts 11:17, “Forasmuch then as they believed only, they would not Tim. 2:15), makes it necessary that God gave them the like gift as [he did] have been saved. Where does it say we take ALL the Bible says on a sub - unto us, who believed on the Lord they “believed only?” It’s not there. ject and reason to a logical conclu - Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could Over and over again throughout the sion. “Faith only” is a dead, devilish withstand God?” , belief, faith, is used doctrine. No one has ever been saved Those at the household of Cor - to indicate one’s obedience to the by it nor will anyone ever be saved by nelius believed on the Lord. As a Lord’s commands. Faith sums up all it. This verse certainly does not teach result, they did not claim “faith only.” that one must do to become a Chris - otherwise. They gladly submitted to being bap - tian and live a Christian life to be —More to follow next month tized and therefore received remis - able to go to heaven someday. To sion of sins (Acts 10:48; 2:38). Had “rightly divide the word of truth” (II

some of the scriptural condemna - that he enjoys the approval of the David Lipscomb University… tions are “conditioned by time and very God he denies? (Continued from page 73) culture;” thus they are not relevant What possible justification could to today’s gay-lesbian-bisexual-trans - David Lipscomb University and its extensive format as a thesis written gendered phenomenon. Other texts, affiliates have for arranging and/or while at Abilene Christian Uni - he maintains, address “abuses” supporting a program that embraces versity and presented to Dr. James rather than loving homosexual a defense of this debauched level of W. Thompson, November 28, 2006 liaisons. moral irresponsibility? (see the thesis at www.jaredcra- The following questions are What a disservice to the godly mer.com/wp-content/paulineecclesi- appropriate: memory of the founder of this school! ology.pdf). The CSC submission How does a “scholar” determine If this does not awaken a somewhat (June 27, 2008) is virtually a carbon it is “wrong” if: (a) a homosexual rela - lethargic brotherhood to the gross copy of his ACU thesis. It can hardly tionship is breached by “unfaithful - level of corruption within a number be claimed, therefore, that his posi - ness”; (b) is flawed when lacking of our universities, could anything tion caught CSC officials by surprise. “love” and is solely a matter of lust; bring us to a state of reality? Cramer contends that his or, (c) is unwarranted if it is polyga - Article taken from defense of homosexuality is a mous instead of monogamous? How www.christiancourier.com response to an increasing number of does one deduce that fidelity, loving - PO Box 690308 questions he has received regarding ness, and monogamy are to be pre - Stockton, CA 95269 his position on this subject. Incredi - ferred over their opposites? bly, the author asserts that any dis - Might someone not contend that cussion of homosexuality “is shallow Bible teaching about faithfulness, until a person actually engages in an love, and monogamy likewise are cul - CONTRIBUTIONS actual relationship with a person of a turally flexible, and thus promiscuity, John H. Brown ...... $25 different sexual orientation.” lust, and multiple sex-partners are Bobby & Mary Lawrence ...... $75 The main proposition the author permissible? These sexually inclusive Bethlehem C/C, Baxter, TN ...... $100 attempts to argue is that there is attitudes and actions are common in Johnny & Mindy Arnold ...... $30 nothing “wrong about a faithful, lov - numerous “cultures” within certain Berea C/C, McMinnville, TN ...... $100 ing, monogamous same-sex relation - segments of the modern world. Jackson Street C/C, ship.” He says, “I fail to see what it is One of Cramer’s arguments in Alexandria, LA ...... $100 about homosexuality that declares it defense of homosexual relationships Chuck & Nancy Verkist ...... $25 as inherently evil” ( “Homosexuality: (as he ideally depicts them) is that Phillippi C/C, Tompkinsville, KY ..... $200 But Why?” www.jaredcramer.com/?- gays, lesbians, bisexuals, and the Lonnie Dawson ...... $25 p=3D583). He contends that Paul’s transgendered frequently bear “all Charles Maxwell ...... $5 “oneness ecclesiology” in the Eph - the fruits of the Spirit” (cf. Gal. 5:22- Saks C/C, Anniston, AL ...... $50 esian epistle applies to gays and 23), hence such must be evidence of Arlington C/C, McMinnville, TN ...... $50 straights just as it did to Jews and their approval by God. He contends Berea C/C, Rives, TN ...... $100 Gentiles! that “the holiness seen in the lives of Anonymous ...... $200 If this is so, the apostle contra - these Christians has stood in ‘stark Anonymous ...... $250 dicted his earlier instruction in both contrast with many sinful patterns of Ruby York ...... $180 1 Corinthians (6:9), Romans (1:26- sexuality’ (e.g., promiscuity, prostitu - Baker C/C, Baker, FL ...... $25 27), and his later letter to Timothy (1 tion, incest, pornography, pedophilia, Billy R. Darnell ...... $25 Timothy 1:10). predatory sexual behavior, etc.)” This brief review is not designed (“One New Humanity”). The “logic” is Beginning Balance ...... $13,111.55 as a comprehensive rebuttal of the unbelievable. Contributions ...... $1,565.00 author’s superficial treatment of the What is to be said regarding the Debits Scripture texts that condemn homo - atheist who loves his wife, is joyful in Postage ...... $1,610.80 sexual conduct. He dismisses the bib - his occupational employment, and is Paper ...... $2,481.00 lical data with a cavalier wave of the peaceable with his next-door neigh - Supplies ...... $104.17 hand and his personal assertion that bor? Do these qualities demonstrate Ending Balance ...... $10,480.58 76 Seek The Old Paths – October 2008 THOSE THAT ARE RICH IN THIS WORLD Roger D. Campbell

n the New Testament, we read of them, have nothing to do with a per - ther their silver nor their gold shall individuals who were in “deep son’s character. And, yet, many of the be able to deliver them in the day of Ipoverty” (II Cor. 8:2). We also read world’s wealthy are in love with the LORD’S wrath” (Zeph. 1:18). about those people who were “very rich” themselves and eaten up with arro - 4. DO remember the source of (Luke 18:23). While the term “middle- gance as they look down their snobby your riches (v.17). The text says, class” is not used in the Bible, we would noses at others. Satan has convinced “...God, who giveth us richly all imagine that a number of Bible charac - multitudes of people that if they can things to enjoy.” Yes, “all things” are ters whose financial standing is not just become rich, then they will be from the Lord. How much money do I specified in the Scriptures, were some - somebody. Friends, the way to “be have? Regardless of my answer, I where in between the status of being somebody” has everything to do with must never forget that every single “very rich” and living in “deep poverty.” being washed by the blood of the portion of it came from God. He is the We recognize that the expres - Lamb and having our names written Giver of life, breath, and all things sions “rich people” and “poor people” in His book of life, while being “some - (Acts 17:25). must be understood in the context of body” has nothing to do with how 5. DO “do good” (v.18). One the folks with whom they are being much money a person has! motive that a child of God should compared. One who is counted as a 2. Do NOT trust in uncertain have in making money is to be able to rich person in the States, just might riches (v.17). There is such a thing use it “to give to him that needeth” be considered a poor man if he were as being spiritually rich (Rev. 2:9), (Eph. 4:28). That same Book of Eph - to move to Saudi Arabia. On the but here in 1 Timothy 6, the obvious esians reminds us that Christians other hand, a family that has a reference is to material riches. Notice are created in the Christ “unto good household income that ranks in the how the Bible describes such — works” (2:10). Yes, the Lord wants bottom 5% of the households in a “uncertain riches.” What makes them His people to be “zealous of good more wealthy country, might be seen “uncertain?” The fact that there is no works” (Titus 2:14). While almost as rich by those who live in a pover - guarantee that they will still be in everyone has opportunity to show ty-stricken, undeveloped nation. our possession even an hour from compassion and render assistance to Many of us who do not count our - now! A rich fool of a farmer said to those that are lacking in material selves as being in the category of “the himself, “Soul, thou hast much goods things, those that are rich are espe - rich,” will have to admit that we do laid up for many years; take thine cially blessed with the prospect of have an enormous amount of materi - ease, eat, drink, and be merry” (Luke being able to do more than others al blessings. Yes, we have much, 12:19). What a shocker it must have simply due to the fact of their abun - much more than we actually need in been to him to hear the Lord tell him, dance. order to survive. We would, then, be “Thou fool, this night thy soul shall 6. DO “be rich in good works” “rich,” would we not? For the purpose be required of thee: then whose shall (v.18). They should not dabble in of this study, we want to examine a those things be, which thou hast pro - helping others just to make them - portion of the message that the Holy vided” (Luke 12:20)? Since money selves feel good about themselves or Spirit instructed Timothy to give to and material blessings are in the to avoid the feeling of guilt. Rather, rich people. It is recorded in 1 Timo - “now-you-have-them, now-you-don’t” those that are blessed with material thy 6:17-19; “Charge them that are category, they are uncertain, indeed. riches are to abound in good works. rich in this world, that they be not 3. DO trust in the living God What a blessing those people who highminded, nor trust in uncertain (v.17). The Bible’s message is plain: love to give can be to a community riches, but in the living God, who “Trust in the LORD with all thine and a congregation of God’s people. giveth us richly all things to enjoy. heart and lean not unto thine own 7. DO be ready to distribute That they do good, that they be rich in understanding” (Prov. 3:5). Every (give) and willing to communi - good works, ready to distribute, will - person of every economic status cate (share) (v.18). Here we see the ing to communicate; Laying up in needs to learn to say the following mentality the rich need to manifest store for themselves a good founda - words with an honest heart: “O in the matter of doing good works — tion against the time to come, that LORD my God, in thee do I put my not unprepared and forced into it, they may lay hold on eternal life.” trust” (Psalm 7:1). Sadly, riches are but “ready” and “willing.” Would this When we break down these vers - the god before which many bow, but principal not hold true for all Chris - es, we see in them some “Do’s” and there is only one living God Who is tians? And, would it not apply to the “Don’ts” for rich people. Let us look at worthy of our devotion. God is a mind-set of those in a congregation them one by one. refuge, strength, and hope for those who make decisions about the help 1. Do NOT be highminded that trust in Him (Psalm 46:1). the church supplies for those that (haughty) (v.17). Having a lot of Money, on the other hand, will never stand in need? money or an abundance of material serve as a refuge or shelter which can 8. DO store up for yourselves possessions does not make one a bet - somehow save a person from every a good foundation for the time to ter quality person. Riches, or a lack of problem in life, including sin. “Nei - come (v.19). The Master said it this October 2008 – Seek The Old Paths 77 way, “But lay up for yourselves treas - people is for them to “get it right” the rich are given warnings, exhorta - ures in heaven, where neither moth with their riches in order that they tions, and instructions about the nor rust doth corrupt, and where can “lay hold on eternal life” (v.19). proper use of their funds and posses - thieves do not break through nor When our heart is more concentrated sions. steal: For where your treasure is, there on money matters than it is on eter - The message we have considered will your heart be also” (Matt. nal life, we are in trouble, big trouble! from 1 Timothy 6:17-19 is a sobering 6:20,21). The only way to be ready to Many saints of God who were once one, not just for “the filthy rich,” but live where there is no need for mate - faithful in His service have self- for each one of us. May the “Do’s” and rial possessions of any type (which is destructed due to “the cares of this “Don’ts” we have studied about mate - heaven), is to recognize Jesus as the world, and the deceitfulness of riches” rial riches be ever clear in our minds. one foundation (I Cor. 3:11), then (Mark 4:19). Let us all be grateful for the greatest serve Him as Lord by doing His will It is not money itself, nor the pos - riches of all — those spiritual bless - (Luke 6:46). Yes, a wise man builds session of it, that is the root of all ings that we enjoy in the Son of God his house/life on the Lord Jesus kinds of evil. Rather, it is “the love of (Eph. 1:3). And, would we not do well (Matt. 7:24-27). money” that has the distinction of to imitate the attitude the apostle 9. Do NOT lose sight of what being called the root of all kinds of Paul expressed? Speaking of his out - is most important (v.19). You have evil (I Tim. 6:10). A further point that look, both past and present, he wrote, probably seen it happen. Perhaps it needs to be made from our text in 1 “But what things were gain to me, has even happened in your own life. Timothy 6:17-19 is this: God’s charge those I counted loss for Christ” (Phil. What am I talking about? A person to the rich is not for them to become 3:7). Many of our generation would can get so caught up in the posses - poor, but rather for them to maintain exclaim, “To me, to live is money.” Not sion of riches (and making more!) a proper attitude toward their money so for the apostle to the Gentiles. that he/she loses sight of what really and to be generous in their use of it Hear him: “For to me to live is matters in life, which is living in such for good works. There is no message Christ...” (Phil. 1:21). a way that we can obtain eternal life. in the Bible that says a person will be 120 Will Lewis Dr. SE The Holy Spirit’s message to rich condemned for being rich. Instead, Cleveland, TN 37323

BAPTISM : T HE TRANSITIONAL STEP Marlin Kilpatrick

he subject of baptism has for ye not, stand still and see the salva - “old man” (his sinful past, MK) and many years been one of great con - tion of the Lord...” (Exodus 14:13). putting on the “new man” (Christ, Ttroversy. This controversy is not The Israelites’ salvation was their MK). (See Col. 3:9,10; Gal.3:27). the fault of the Scriptures. The fault is physical deliverance through the Red Have YOU taken that “transi - on the part of those people who do not Sea. The Israelites made a transition tional step” into Jesus Christ? When want to accept what the Bible so plainly from Egyptian bondage when they one is baptized for the remission of teaches. It amazes me to see how so passed through the waters of the his sins, he enters into the body of many people who claim to believe the Sea. It was only when they were on Christ which is the church of our Bible, and who will accept what the the other side were they able to sing Lord (I Cor. 12:13; Eph. 4:4; 1:22,23). Bible says on other subjects, will reject the song of deliverance (Exodus 15). Since salvation is in Christ (II Tim. what the Scriptures teach about bap - This “transitional step” is referred to 2:10) and the only way into Christ is tism. One reason for such rejection by the apostle Paul when he wrote, in the transition (baptism) into him, might be a failure to recognize that a “And were all baptized unto Moses in it is imperative that we obey Him transition occurs when one is baptized the cloud and in the sea” (I Cor. 10:2). today. Tomorrow may not come! for the remission of his sins. A transi - Today, when one is baptized for Friend, stand tional step always takes place when the the remission of his sins, he makes a ready to assist you in your obedience sinner obeys the Gospel of Christ. Since transition from his sinful past into to the Gospel. If you believe Jesus the Old Testament was “...written for Jesus Christ, where he is cleansed by Christ is God’s Son (John 8:24), and our learning...” (Rom. 15:4), the the blood of Christ and “raised to have repented of your sins (Acts Israelites serve as an example from walk in newness of life” (Rom. 6:3,4; 17:30), won’t you confess your faith which we can learn a lesson about mak - Rev. 1:5). When the sinner is baptized in Christ (Acts 8:36,37) and then ing a transition. his is “...delivered from the power of take that transitional step into When Moses led God’s people out darkness, and hath been translated Christ by being baptized for the for - of Egyptian bondage, Pharaoh’s army into the kingdom of his dear Son...” giveness of your sins? Do so today! followed in pursuit until they came to (Col. 1:13). The key word is “into,” a You may not have another tomorrow. the Red Sea. The Israelites were preposition indicative of a forward [email protected] afraid they were about to be overtak - movement. When the sinner is bap - 1336 Spring Lake Road en (Exodus 14:9,10). The Bible says, tized for the remission of his sins, he Fruitland Park, FL 34731 “And Moses said unto the people, Fear makes a transition by putting off the 78 Seek The Old Paths – October 2008 TRUE BRANCHES OF CHRIST Marvin L. Weir

he fifteenth chapter of John por - sown (Luke 8:11). The Gospel is still withered; and men gather them, and trays Christ as the true vine and to this very day God’s power to save cast them into the fire, and they are Tindividual Christians as the souls from sin (Rom. 1:16). No one burned.” This makes it clear that branches. One who obeys the Gospel is a has ever been saved by the wisdom of Jesus is speaking of individuals and branch in Christ. Man-made denomi - man (cf. I Cor. 1:20-25), and this truth not “churches.” One is obligated to nations are not the branches spoken of strikes a deathblow to all the gim - remain in the vine. Whatever is by John as is made clear in verse five. micks that are employed today by required to do he must do or be The disciples who are followers of Christ religious shysters to draw a crowd. A purged from the vine. This shows are the branches under discussion. Each true follower of Christ who is bearing that man can apostatize and lose his child of God has the responsibility to fruit for the Lord will preach the soul. produce fruit as a branch in the king - Word and be content to let God give Different fruit does not come dom. the increase. from the same vine. Religious divi - Denominations teach that these The Word of God has the ability sion is contrary to Jesus’ prayer “branches” are different “churches” in to clean and make pure. The apostle (John 17:20-21). All “branches” in a futile attempt to justify denomina - Peter says to brethren, “Seeing ye Christ are to produce the same fruit. tionalism. The context, however, will have purified your souls in obeying In other words, each Christian is to not allow such an erroneous inter - the truth through the Spirit unto “speak the same thing...that there be pretation. It is individual people unfeigned love of the brethren, see no divisions...be perfectly joined under consideration and not differ - that ye love one another with a pure together in the same mind and in the ent religious groups. Man-made reli - heart fervently: Being born again, not same judgment” (I Cor. 1:10). gious bodies are desperate to find of corruptible seed, but of incorrupt - One cannot claim to follow New Testament Scripture to back up ible, by the word of God, which liveth Christ while refusing to obey His their existence but they will search and abideth for ever” (I Peter 1:22- commands. A true branch of Christ in vain. There is only “one body” 23). abides in His Word and enjoys fel - (Eph. 4:4), and one does not mean It has already been noted that a lowship with the Father and the Son many! person puts on Christ at the point of and all others who are content to Only those who obey the Gospel immersion into Christ (Gal. 3:27). abide in the teaching of Christ. May (Rom. 1:16) are branches “in Christ” One who is in Christ must choose to we strive to be true branches of (II Cor. 5:17). One puts on Christ in continue to abide in Christ (John Christ! the act of baptism (Gal. 3:27). A pen - 15:4). If one fails to “walk in the light 815 42nd St. SW itent believer who obeys the Gospel as he is in the light” (I John 1:7) or Paris, TX 75460 plan of salvation is “baptized into “goeth onward and abideth not in the Christ” (Rom. 6:3) and “raised” to doctrine of Christ” (II John 9), he does walk “in newness of life” (Rom. 6:4). not “abide in the vine” (John 15:4) On The Brink Of Disaster One who does not bear fruit is and cannot bear fruit. Many today not maturing in Christ. The apostle pretend to be “branches” while refus - hich will it be? The way that Paul identifies the fruit that every ing to do the Lord’s will. Jesus notes Wleads to God or the way that child of God is to produce as being this truth in saying, “Not every one leads away from God? Everyone “love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kind - that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall has their own ideas about social issues (which make no difference one ness, goodness, faithfulness, meek - enter into the kingdom of heaven; but way or the other). But Biblical issues ness, [and] self-control” (Gal. 5:22- he that doeth the will of my Father do not fit into that category. What the 23). The Christian who is bearing which is in heaven. Many will say to Bible says makes all the difference in fruit for the Master will continue to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we the world — the difference between mature as Peter demonstrates in not prophesied in thy name? and in heaven and hell. Unless the citizens saying, “And beside this, giving all thy name have cast out devils? and in of this land and its governing offi - diligence, add to your faith virtue; thy name done many wonderful cials turn from their present course, and to virtue knowledge; And to works? And then will I profess unto destruction will be the final outcome. God declares, “righteousness exalteth knowledge temperance; and to tem - them, I never knew you: depart from a nation: but sin is a reproach to any perance patience; and to patience god - me, ye that work iniquity” (Matt. people” (Prov. 14:34; 11:11). As Chris - liness; And to godliness brotherly 7:21-23). tians, our job is to pray and work to kindness; and to brotherly kindness May we submit to the Master’s promote righteousness; not lend a charity” (II Peter 1:5-7). A Christian commands so that we will not hear hand to hasten our own destruction. will also strive to teach others the Him say at the judgment, “And why It’s far past time to get our mind set Gospel in planting and watering as call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the on things ABOVE, not on things of things which I say” (Luke 6:46)? John this world (Col. 3:2). In which direc - the opportunity arises (I Cor. 3:6). tion are YOU pushing this county, When the Word of God is pro - 15:6 says, “If a man abide not in me, toward God or away from God? claimed, the seed of the kingdom is he is cast forth as a branch, and is October 2008 – Seek The Old Paths 79 “M AY I S PEAK TO THE PASTOR ?” Roger Scully

lmost daily I receive a phone call verse 28 Paul says, “Take heed there - describing one office of work and which goes something like this: fore unto yourselves,” to whom is he using three terms: elders, bishops A“Hello, Morgan City church of speaking? In view of the context he is and pastors. What conclusions can Christ.” “Hi, my name is ____ and I am speaking to the “elders” of “the we draw from this? Elders, bishops wondering if I may speak to the pastor?” church.” He continues, “and to all the and pastors are the same. These are Surely I am not the only one who flock over the which the Holy Spirit different terms used to describe the receives such a call. This question is a hath made you overseers....” same office of work, each term show - manifestation of a false denominational The Greek word translated ing a different aspect of the work. teaching which has plagued our world “overseers” is episkopos, which Next we ask: Who can serve as for years. It is the teaching that the man means a man who is charged with an elder, bishop or pastor? Despite who “preaches” is the “pastor.” This con - seeing that things are done and that popular belief, the preacher is not cept is not unique to denominations, they are done correctly. This same necessarily one who is a part of this however, for many of our brethren have word is translated “bishop” in 1 Tim - work, though he can be. A preacher the same concept, which is revealed in a othy 3:1,2 and Titus 1:7. Paul is can be an elder, but not all elders are two-fold manner: (1) thinking that the speaking to the elders, but now tells preachers, though they are to be “apt preacher is the boss, and (2) actually them that they are bishops. Paul uses to teach.” The Bible sets forth, in 1 thinking like those of the denomina - similar language in Titus 1:5,7 when Timothy 3:1-7 and in Titus 1:5-9, the tional world that the preacher really is he said, “...and ordain elders in every qualifications a man must meet in the pastor. Despite the thinking of many, church...for a bishop must be....” order to serve in the capacity of an the Bible teaches something much to Again, Paul is speaking of elders, but elder/bishop/pastor. the contrary. We now call attention to then calls them bishops. Is this dou - Included among the qualifica - what the Bible teaches concerning pas - ble talk? No, for Paul understands, tions is a man who is married, having tors. and is explaining, that elders and believing children. Also included in The Bible does, in fact, describe bishops are, in fact, the same individ - these qualifications is the fact that an office of work in which men pas - uals. there must be more than one man tor. This same office is recognized as Now, back to Acts 20:28. After serving in this office at a time. There being the work of elders, who are also addressing the elders, calling them must be two or more, but no less than referred to as bishops. Though these bishops, Paul says they are “...to feed two. The words elders, bishops and three terms describe the same office the church of God, which he hath pastors, always appear in the plural, of work, they are used to show differ - purchased with his own blood.” The never the singular. Even though the ent aspects of the work. The term term feed is a verb in English. It is word elder (singular) appears in 1 elder is descriptive of one who is translated from the Greek verb Peter 5:1, it is obvious that he is one older or aged, thus has experience. poimaino, which means to rule or of a group. For example: “sent it to Bishop refers to the actual work of govern, to tend, to feed. The noun the elders” (Acts 11:30); “and when seeing that things get done, and done form of this word is poimne, which they had ordained elders in every properly. Pastor refers to the tending means one who rules or governs, one church” (Acts 14:23); “go up to the process involved in the work, which who tends (feeds). The word is trans - apostles and elders” (Acts 15:2); “let is expressive of seeing to it that lated “pastors” in Ephesians 4:11 (the the elders that rule well” (I Tim. Christians are being edified. Let us only time the term pastor is used in 5:17); “ordain elders in every city” now look more closely at how these the New Testament). (Titus 1:5); “the elders” (I Peter 5:1). terms are used to describe the same The next section of Scripture, 1 The only time the word pastors is office of work. Peter 5:1,2, uses all three terms. used in the New Testament it is plu - The first section of Scripture to Verse one says, “The elders which are ral. So, then, a man serving in this which we call attention, wherein all among you....” The term “elder” is role must meet these qualifications, three terms are used, is Acts 20:17- translated from the word pres - and must be joined by at least one 28. It is said that Paul “sent to Eph - buteros. Peter continues in verse two other man, in a local church, who also esus, and called the elders of the by saying to the elders, “feed the flock meets these qualifications. These church” (v.17). Notice closely who he of God which is among you....” “Feed” men are identified as elders, bishops called — the elders. The term is is translated from the term and pastors. translated from the Greek word pres - poimaino, meaning to pastor. Finally, Let us do away with this denom - buteros, which means one of age, one he says, “taking the oversight....” inational misrepresentation of bibli - with experience. As one continues From what word is “oversight” trans - cal terminology. Let us call Bible through the context he will notice lated? It is the verb episkopeo, which things by Bible names and do Bible that once these men (the elders) is the verb form of episkopos, mean - things in Bible ways. “were come to him” that Paul “said ing the act of seeing that things get 917 Fig St. unto them” (v.18). Paul continues to done. Morgan City, LA 70380 speak to them through verse 35. In We have one section of Scripture 80 Seek The Old Paths – October 2008

“For many years I have received 10 tive to this verse: “The night is their time for spoil and depredation. And copies of Seek The Old Paths each they must gain some booty, before they go to rest. I grant also that there MAILBAG month. I have given them to neigh - may be some of so malevolent a disposition, that they cannot be easy bors, people in nursing homes and unless they can injure others, and are put to excessive pain when they other friends and have enjoyed the perceive any man in prosperity, or receiving a kindness” (page 712, Com - many rewards of many discussions mentary on Proverbs). One can scarcely imagine such depths of deprav - and opened doors that the publica - ity, but inspiration tells us that men CAN arrive at such a state, and tion has produced. Thank you!!!! I experience teaches us that an ever increasing number ARE DOING SO! S. EEK T. HE O. LD P. ATHS now wish to cancel my subscription. There are two or three truths which we must not miss here. First, one I am able to print many articles via can become just as zealous for evil as he can for good. To be sure, it is a internet and save the expense of mailing. I will continue to be able to progressive thing, but it is possible nonetheless. One does not become open doors with those wonderful and rewarding articles. Many others wicked and vile overnight, nor is he born that way. Sin is progressive for are using the internet as well. Again Thanks for the many years of serv - the simple reason that it does not satisfy the deep needs of the soul. Sec - ice you have provided me. Keep up the good work” ...Arnold ond, one can become so steeped in sin that wickedness is his very nour - Whisenant, Jacksonville, FL. “Return to sender. Remove from mail - ishment. Verse 17 tells us that such individuals “eat the bread of wicked - ing list” ...Vic Greene, Covington, GA. “Please send me the monthly ness and drink the wine of violence.” Depravity has reached such a point publication of “Seek The Old Paths.” This is a great little magazine. God in their lives that they feed on those things that are wicked. Third, the bless you” ...Kathryn Maxwell, McAlester, OK. “I would love to best way to avoid such a state of depravity is to avoid the path that leads receive your publication by mail. Please send one to my Dad also” thereto. “Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of ...Chris Smith, Columbiana, AL. “I have received this publication for evil men” (v.14). Avoid the path, and you avoid where the path leads! We several years and have enjoyed the articles and the soundness of the are told to “enter not,” “avoid it,” “pass not by it,” “turn from it,” and “pass teaching. I moved last January and need to have my mailing address away.” Many a hardened criminal has lamented his past life with the changed” ...Joe F. Travis, Abilene, TX. “Dear Brethren, I just received ever familiar words, “If someone had just warned me.” Well friend, some - the August issue of STOP, not sure who gave you my name, but I want one IS warning, shouting from heaven itself, “Enter not into the path of to thank them. I really enjoyed reading it, so please continue sending the wicked...” Men are just not listening! —Tom Wacaster. more to me. Thank you. I am incarcerated and can only give a little to [From the EDITOR: Occasionally, we receive an anonymous let - you to help spread the Word. I’ve been a member of the Lord’s church ter with the request that it be printed. I’m sorry, but we do not print since August 1978 when I was baptized into it. I’ve been incarcerated for anonymous letters. We don’t want to acknowledge that it was received. over 30 years now and at times I have fallen away, but because of strong As a matter of fact, many times when we see there is no name on it, the brothers as the one who gave you my name and address I have been able letter is never even read. Why would someone be ashamed of what they to get back on track. I have a brother in here. He read the issue you sent have written?] me and ask me to ask you to please send him STOP also. He was a mem - ber of a protestant group. I’ve been working on him to join the Lord’s church and STOP was the final step for him. After reading, he told me he was going to change his religion to church of Christ. Thanks for your Seek The Old Paths is a monthly publication of the East End help in winning him over. Thanks again, hope to be reading your next and is under the oversight of its elders. It is mailed issue of STOP for a long time to come. In Christian Love. Sincerely, your Church of Christ brother in Christ” ...John Edwards, Hutchinsen, KS. “Dear STOP FREE upon request. Its primary purpose and goal in publication can staff, enclosed is a check to contribute to your valuable service” ...Name be found in Jude 3; II Timothy 4:2; Titus 1:13; Titus 2:1; II Peter 1:12. withheld, Farwell, TX. “I’m enclosing a small check to help with the All mail received may be published unless otherwise noted. Articles expenses and mailing of your great publication, “Seek The Old Paths.” I are also welcomed. wish I could do more but personal income does not make room for it. The http:/E/wditwor:wG.sarelaenkdtMh.eRooldbipnasotnhs.org paper is outstanding and I enjoy it so much. Articles and editorials are so clear that anyone who wants to hear the truth can surely understand. R 1 E M 0 A God bless you in your work and readers in their understanding. May God E C 2 S T bless and protect the Lord’s church from those who would pervert it. I M E U T I D N R

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yours in every good way” ...Glann M. Lee, Decherd, TN. “Please use . T C R N E this any way you need it. Look forward each month to getting STOP. In C H 3 Christ” ...Jackie & Janet Bullard, St. Elmo, IL. “I really appreciate R 7 E O the publication. It is very interesting and good articles. The writing 1 Q 1 F 0 exposes error and brings out truth. Please keep up the good work. Maybe U C - E 2 H

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for operating expenses for Seek the Old Paths. We appreciate your con - T tinuing stand for the truth. In His service” ...Richard & Linda Weight, Florence, OR. “We would like Seek The Old Paths sent. Enclosed is a small donation” ...name and state withheld by request. “ENTER NOT INTO THE PATH OF THE WICKED” There is not much in this world that is so baffling as random and senseless vio - lence. We recently learned of a gang of youth on the West coast who M N P

broke into a high priced home, not to steal, but to vandalize. The house U c e o . M r n P S

was “trashed” (as per the news report). Walls were kicked in, furniture m - i . P n i A t P n

destroyed, fixtures and appliances ripped from the wall and cabinets. r o N v o f I i s o

Indeed, these things cause the sensible and sane to marvel at the extent i l t l t e . a D O , 3

men will go when under the control and power of Satan. The Proverb g r T 4 e g 9 writer has given us some insight into the “mind set” of such wicked indi - N . viduals that we would be wise to note. “For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall” (Prov. 4:16). Adam Clarke had these interesting comments rela -