Download the Testimony: March 2018

…of Jesus Christ.” Revelation 12:17 Verse Of The Month “For who hath despised the day of small things?… the eyes of the LORD… run to and fro through the whole earth.” Zechariah 4:10 Vol. IX March, 2018 No. 3

APPRECIATION

Despise no spot. There’s not a place From which joy hides its smiling face Or whence a hero may not come, Or greatness may not make its home.

Despise no hour. The drabbest time May be the one to sound the chime Of freedom from the toils, and tears, And sorrows of a thousand years.

Despise no task, however small. Life honors each and uses all. What builds the story of a land? The patient toil of unknown hands.

Despise no road that feet must go. The roughest, hardest path you know May be the one whose course is cast Toward the fairest scene at last.

Despise no soul. God scorneth none. His image is on every one. In shadows where no trumpet swells This moment many a great heart dwells.

Clarence Edwin Flynn The Testimony

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“…I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.”

Job 23:12 BETTER IS THE POOR…IN HIS INTEGRITY… 3 Editorial

BETTER IS THE POOR… above is an attempt to incite in us IN HIS INTEGRITY… an admiration for poverty. The counsel given is rather an exalting As the nation we live in wrestles of godliness and integrity over through perhaps an unprecedent- riches. ed chain of challenges, and at- This thought is held forth many tempts to maintain a respect for places in the Scripture. It cannot those in high offices of govern- escape the notice of the sincere ment, the humble follower of Bible reader. Notice: Christ can remain unshaken and Ps. 37:25–26—”I have been young, still rejoice in the Lord, and in His and now am old; yet have I not teachings, for they are true. seen the righteous forsaken, nor We see on every hand that rich- his seed begging bread. He is ever es are glorified, even when the merciful, and lendeth; and his lives of the very rich lack moral seed is blessed.” purity or godliness. It seems that Prov. 15:16—”Better is little with men and women feel that it is al- the fear of the LORD than great ways better to be rich. But the treasure and trouble therewith.” Scripture often declares that it is Prov. 16:8—Better is a little with better to be poor. This should be a righteousness than great revenues comfort to struggling humanity. without right.” “Better is the poor that walketh in Prov. 28:6—”Better is the poor his integrity, than he that is perverse that walketh in his uprightness, in his lips, and is a fool.” So says the than he that is perverse in his writer of the Proverbs (19:1). ways, though he be rich.” The thinking person may be at- Matt. 16:26—”For what is a man tracted to the truth of this proverb profited, if he shall gain the whole on the one hand, and tempted to world, and lose his own soul?” draw back from it on the other. Ja. 2:5—”Hearken, my beloved How can it ever be better to be brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor? I distinctly remember a poor of this world, rich in faith…” morning a few years ago, when an And Luke echoes these same acquaintance walked into the of- sentiments in his record of the fice where several of us were first beatitude, as Jesus says, working. “I have experienced both “Blessed be ye poor, for yours is poverty and riches,” he blurted out the kingdom of God.” suddenly. “I like riches better.” I A perusing of these Scriptures am sure he expected us all to and more will leave a very strong laugh, and several did. impression on the soul. These But the sincere child of God words are a comfort to the believ- may have difficulty participating ing poor, and a guide to those who in the full merriment of a state- may be in pursuit of riches. ment like this. Because the words I do not intend to convey a mes- of Scripture concerning poverty sage of condemnation of those who actually point us in another direc- may have much wealth and sub- tion. stance. The Bible gives very kind I do not believe the proverb instructions to those with means, 4 The Testimony March, 2018 and tells how they can be a bless- nity with gladness. ing in the kingdom. “Charge them As difficult as it may be for a that are rich in this world, that young and ambitious man of the they be not high minded, nor trust world to understand, the simple in uncertain riches, but in the liv- words of the Scriptures provide ing God, who giveth us richly all insight into the mind of God, and things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, also the happiness of man. “Better ready to distribute, willing to com- is the poor, that walketh in his municate; Laying up in store for integrity…” The Apostle Paul, as themselves a good foundation he writes to the young man Timo- against the time to come, that they thy, echoes the same insight, “… may lay hold on eternal godliness with contentment is life” (I Tim. 6:17–19). Most of us great gain.” have been blessed greatly by the These words are “given by inspi- generosity of believers who have ration of God, and are profitable…” wealth. And the testimony of their giving fills the church and commu- Lowell Miller General THE NEW TESTAMENT— the Latin “credo,” simply meaning OUR ONLY CREED “I believe.” Webster’s Dictionary defines a creed as “a brief formula In 1708, a group of German of belief “ or “a set of fundamental Christians, were awakened and beliefs.” Simply put, a creed is an convicted of their spiritual need by expression of faith or a confession the Holy Spirit and the teachings of what specific things an individ- of both Radical Pietists and vari- ual or group chooses to believe. ous Anabaptists. These convicted From a denominational perspec- individuals met near the village of tive, a creed is an authorized Schwarzenau, Germany, and were baptized by trine immersion in the statement composed by a council Eder River, renouncing their pre- of men which is used as a stand- vious membership in the churches ard of faith and practice for a par- of their youth, including the Lu- ticular religious body. Early theran and the Reformed. At this creeds such as the Apostles’ Creed, time they organized into a new the Nicene Creed, and others were church fellowship of believers who intended as statements of belief to were committed to restoring a lit- illuminate against the errors and eral obedience to the teachings of heresies cropping up around (and the Bible. To this day, many of the even within) the early churches; descendants of these Brethren still these creeds were not primarily declare that they have “no creed used to judge heretics, but to ex- but the New Testament.” press the fundamentals of the The word “creed” comes from Christian faith. THE NEW TESTAMENT—OUR ONLY CREED 5 When our early Brethren orga- service to creeds, while failing to nized in 1708, creedal statements reflect those beliefs in their daily abounded among the various state lives. Another concern was that to churches, including the Augsburg attempt to bind faith and practice Confession, the Decrees of the into such concrete forms could hin- Council of Trent, the Heidelberg der the Holy Spirit from shedding Catechism, and the Westminster further light on God’s will for the Confession of Faith. Some of these lives of His people at different statements had the force of civil times, and as such, the Brethren law, and people who did not con- have consistently claimed to have form to them risked arrest, impris- no creed but the New Testament. onment, and sometimes even In accord with the Anabaptists death. Scholars and theologians and other groups of a “Believer’s debated their minutiae, and even Church” nature, the Brethren ministers of the Gospel spent time church movement has long held belaboring them rather than that the choice to both believe in preaching the Word itself. and follow Jesus Christ must al- Various Anabaptist groups also ways be a voluntary one, rather formulated creeds, usually called than something that can be man- “confessions of faith.” Some of dated by any sort of human author- these included the 1544 and 1655 ity. The direct result of this convic- Waldensian Confessions, the 1527 tion has been the belief that the Moravian Discipline of the Church, only standard by which Christians the 1527 Schleitheim Confession of may be rightly guided and correctly Faith, the Hutterite Confession of judged is the New Testament. As the fullest revelation of God Faith, and the Dordrecht Confes- and His plan of salvation through sion of Faith in 1632. There are the blood of Jesus Christ, the Bible also three Dutch Mennonite Con- is where God’s people may discern fessions of Faith recorded in the what true faith is and how it ought 1660 Martyr’s Mirror, and our ear- to be expressed in practice. In- ly Brethren would have been famil- spired and authored by God, the iar with many of these and others. New Testament in particular con- Far too often, denominational tinues to provide the complete creeds became formal statements standard to guide Christians in of doctrinal beliefs, and over time this life. With this in mind, we will they grew laden down with details consider six questions which are and opinions which had little to no foundational to this concept of the bearing on character making, nor New Testament as our only creed. on true spiritual fellowship with How do we view the Scriptures? Is the Lord, nor on a Christian’s rela- the New Testament authoritative? tion to his fellow men. Our early Is it superior and complete? Is it Brethren had a heartfelt concern unchanging? Is it objective? And as they watched people give lip finally, is it truly practiceable? 6 The Testimony March, 2018 How Do We View ality, adulterous unions, and even The Scriptures? denials of Scripture authority are Many of our forefathers were no longer condemned as sin, but never afraid to proclaim (or at are accepted and relabeled as times, even to debate) with non- “alternative lifestyles” and Brethren regarding the substance “relevant” perspectives. What we of our faith and trust in the New believe and what place we give the Testament as our only creed. How- Scriptures matters very much! As ever, we live in a different era: a such, join me as we look at the time when postmodern thought New Testament as our creed, and suggests that the validity of every- consider five vital aspects of it thing is to be questioned, and that will determine whether it when Biblical authority is disre- ought to be kept as our only creed: garded in favor of personal prefer- Is it authoritative, is it superior ences! The waning regard of our and complete, is it unchanging, is day for the plain commands of the it objective, and is it practicable? New Testament, coupled with Is The New Testament cries for “relevance,” suggests that Authoritative? we have a real need both to ask If we wish to maintain the and to answer the question of premise that the New Testament whether the New Testament IS is our final rule of faith and prac- still our creed, and whether we tice, then consistency requires DO still believe it to be sufficient for life and godliness. that we accept it as being authori- How do we view the Scriptures? tative in all matters. Our beliefs What we believe about anything and practices must be subjected to determines what we do about it or it, and any ideas which contradict with it, and for anyone to suggest its plain teachings and principles that “what we do is what counts” must be discarded. Otherwise, we grossly overlooks the simple fact are guilty of the very same lip- that what we do depends solidly service and dead form which our on what we believe. If we are not forefathers sought to avoid. Fur- honest about this, both individual- ther, a church has the biblical au- ly and as a fellowship, we risk se- thority to expect its members to rious consequences for ourselves believe in and to abide by the and our children. teachings of the New Testament. Immorality, such as our parents As a result, a church also possess- and grandparents never imagined, es the obligation to discipline its is now open behavior for all to members in any area where the see—even among professing Word of God is disregarded or con- Christians. Things like homosexu- tradicted. THE NEW TESTAMENT—OUR ONLY CREED 7 Creedal statements written or group and then being held to any endorsed by synods or councils or statement which could be consid- committees of men can only be ered a higher or equal authority truly authoritative insofar as they with the New Testament. They reiterate the teachings of the desired to be open to further un- Scriptures in their primitive sim- derstandings while they continued plicity. To posit anything beyond to study the Scriptures. For exam- the doctrines and commands of the ple, as they read the Gospel of Scriptures will risk a rapid evolu- John, they observed that Jesus tion into conjecture and subjective commanded that His followers application. As an example of were to “wash one another’s feet,” this, while some statements of and they also saw that Christians faith are very definite about the were to engage in an agape meal doctrine of last things and the sec- with one another. Such things ond coming of Jesus Christ, much were not being done by the pro- of what is taught today remains fessing Christians of their time the opinions of men on how events and locale, so they sought to prac- will occur, other than the fact tice it themselves as obedient that Jesus will return disciples of Jesus, un- for His people. der the authority of Even among our …a church has the the New Testa- fellowship, ment. some breth- biblical authority to II Timothy ren are pre- expect its members to 3:16–17 tells us, “All scrip- millennial in believe in and abide their views, ture is given some are post- by the teachings of the by inspiration millennial, and New Testament. of God, and is some may even profitable for doc- lean a-millennial, yet trine, for reproof, for in the end such a subject correction, for instruction remains one of those areas where in righteousness: That the man of the Lord has not given full clarity. God may be perfect, thoroughly This suggests that those areas in furnished unto all good works.” which He has been more specific By contrast, however sound they are more important in our working may seem and biblically based, no toward unity and peace with one creed nor confession nor state- another. ment of men can be said to be in- Even in light of the above, state- spired. They may have value as ments of faith are not necessarily commentaries on what people wrong in themselves. Perhaps our have found to be true from the early Brethren were simply wary Scriptures, but of themselves they of stating what they believed as a have no such strength as does the 8 The Testimony March, 2018 living Word (see Heb. 4:12). The as revealed in the Scriptures, then Scriptures themselves are de- it may be trusted. But even then it signed by God to protect us and ought to acknowledge that its only strengthen us, for they not only authority rests with the New Tes- teach us sound doctrine, but they tament itself. rebuke us with authority when Too often creedal statements our lives are not as they should and councils evolve into something be, and they equip us to more ef- having equal authority with the fectively serve the Lord. Scriptures. They may be doctrinal- ly sound and biblically based, but Is The New Testament the greatest risk for a church to Superior and Complete? create or endorse a formal creed Is there anything to specifically lies in the simple fact that it is not support this position of claiming God’s Word! This cannot be em- that the New Testament should phasized enough; it is merely a remain our only creed? By holding commentary on the Scriptures. to the New Testament as our only So, where lies the risk of having a creed, it is implied that any other public statement that is essential- statements, confessions of faith, ly a commentary on the Scriptures and any other types of creeds are as we understand them? The risk inferior to it. While this may not of falling into the same trap as the prevent us from composing state- Jews did in the days of Jesus, ments of New Testament doctrine when they accepted and promoted which we believe from time to the teachings of men regarding time, we still need to recognize the Scriptures as being equal to that all such statements are the the Scriptures themselves, at least result of human minds and fallible in deed if not in word. men, except for where they direct- In Matthew 15:9, Jesus specifi- ly repeat the Scriptures them- cally rebuked them for this, saying selves. “In vain they do worship me, Quite often there is a desire for teaching for doctrines the com- a group to offer some sort of sum- mandments of men.” To this day mary of their beliefs as a means to the Jewish people have the Torah, assist believers in their efforts in or Law of Moses, and commen- sharing the basics of their faith in taries on the Law, and commen- a brief way. Where such a sum- taries upon their commentaries. mary remains faithful to the New Colossians 2:8 warns us, “Beware Testament, it can be helpful to lest any man spoil you through communicate the basic tenets of philosophy and vain deceit, after our faith. A concise summary of the tradition of men, after the rudi- beliefs will not include everything ments of the world, and not after there is to the Bible or in the Christ.” This is the very real risk Christian faith, but if it correctly of having any sort of formal creed relates the doctrines of our faith beyond the New Testament. It will THE NEW TESTAMENT—OUR ONLY CREED 9 constantly tempt us toward ac- Brethren opposed formulating a cepting men’s traditions and well- statement of belief because they meant applications as having wished to be open to new revela- equal weight with the Scriptures, tion, but it was not something new and in the end, with their Author. so much as desiring greater illumi- Is The New Testament nation upon the truths already set Unchanging? down. In a similar way, one may turn on a light switch after enter- Creeds formulated and endorsed ing a dark room to see what is al- by men are not only established by ready there, rather than expecting consensus, but they are also sub- to find something that was not ject to change over the years as present before. We search the the issues confronting our faith Scriptures daily, not for a vision of and our daily lives change as well. Just as the Ten Commandments new things, but for a fuller under- were written on unchanging stone, standing of those things already rather than metal or mud or other contained therein. malleable substances, so do the In the Brethren Encyclopedia commands of the Scriptures re- (1983), the article titled “Bible” main unchanging for the people of says that “Brethren…single out God, unlike flexible creeds and the New Testament as that part of manmade confessions of faith. Scripture to be designated as their When the Apostles’ Creed was rule of faith and practice. This first written, it seems that nobody specific regard for the New Testa- ever expected the modern attack ment is grounded in the conviction on the authority and trustworthi- that it sets forth God’s final, bind- ness of the Scriptures, and there- ing covenant with humanity in fore, the doctrine of the Scriptures Jesus Christ.” In the same vein, was not addressed. For the past when accused by other Radical century or so, however, the Bible Pietists of starting a new church, has been questioned from both Alexander Mack once replied in within and outside of the Church. his tract, Ground Searching Ques- Thus, in modern confessions and tions, “We have neither a new statements of faith, the issue of church nor new laws. We only biblical reliability and authority is want to remain in simplicity and mentioned, rather than being tak- true faith in the original church en for granted as a fact. which Jesus founded through His The Word of God does not blood.” Is that our goal today? change! Its statements are forever It The New Testament true and forever pertinent to the Objective? human condition. They are neither changeable nor given authority by When we say that the New Tes- the consensus of a vote. Some tament is our only creed, we are have also suggested that the early acknowledging that it has the 10 The Testimony March, 2018 highest authority in our Christian in judgment of the Word itself, faith. While we may gain wisdom and to reinterpret it according to and insight from our experience, the current theological and social from the gathered body of believ- trends that they prefer. ers, and from the Holy Spirit in- “Salvation” eventually becomes structing us, the only objective liberation from various forms of measure we possess today is the social and economic oppression, Bible, for by it alone may our be- and the Jesus who came “to seek liefs and behavior be adequately and to save that which was lost” judged. becomes a sort of political messiah On my bookshelf at home, there intending to overthrow Rome. sits a series of books titled “The When it is permitted to be used in Creeds of Christendom.” In one of this sort of way, the New Testa- them, the author wrote thusly: ment becomes so pliable that it “the first object of creeds was to becomes meaningless as any sort distinguish the Church from the of reliable world, from Jews and heathen, guide. afterwards orthodoxy from heresy, O t h e r s If we honestly and finally denomination from p r o c l a i m desire to have denomination.” Jesus said in John their belief the New Tes- 17:20–21 that His purpose was to in the New make His church one with Himself Testament, tament as our and one another. Too often, hu- but also only creed… man attempts to put our beliefs prefer to it must be re- into statements and creeds can pick and primarily be intended to show how c h o o s e flected in our our beliefs are distinctive from what they lives. other denominations and tradi- believe and tions around us, rather than simp- p r a c t i c e . ly for the purpose of expanding on Our early Brethren found no the Scriptures themselves. Is our “canon within the canon” which desire to be distinctive in Christ they followed more closely than based upon His Word, or by a the rest of the New Testament. changing and subjective standard? Rather, it was all to be obeyed in The Bible is not subject to rede- its entirety, and without question. fining and reinterpretations, alt- So how do we determine what to hough many have attempted to do observe and what not to follow? so. Those who would redefine the We often turn to Scriptures like Scriptures have no desire to pat- Matthew 5–7 first, taking the Ser- tern their lives and faith after the mon on the Mount as the Chris- simple faith of the New Testa- tian’s guide, as do many others. ment. Rather, they wish to stand But how easily it seems that many THE NEW TESTAMENT—OUR ONLY CREED 11 will dismiss things like the simple and the practices commanded in teachings of John 13 (footwashing) the New Testament, but they will or I Corinthians 11 (headship veil- never fully capture the essence of ing and gender testimonies) as the New Testament itself. irrelevant! Why do so many let When it comes to the Bible, we simplicity in dress give way to dare not minimize it, nor explain fashion and culture? Or why is it or interpret it away where it does that we witness divorce and adul- not suit or appeal to us. To do so terous “marriages” gaining ac- would go against everything that ceptance among so many profess- not only our forefathers, but other ing Christian churches? Can we faithful Christians also, have do anything better than to accept stood for (and sometimes died for) the New Testament unconditional- down through the ages. Simply ly and uncritically, following it as put, the Bible is to be read, stud- the revelation of our Heavenly Fa- ied, and obeyed. If we honestly ther’s will for His people in every desire to have the New Testament age? as our only creed and our final Is the New Testament rule of faith and practice, then Practiceable? above anything else, it must be reflected in our lives and actions. One of the great concerns of the Alexander Mack once wrote that Radical Pietists and our early it would be hard for many to do Brethren was the way in which this, and he counseled that people many people in the state churches will do well to “count well the claimed to follow a particular creed cost,” referring to Jesus’ words in or statement of faith, but there Luke 14. Simple obedience to the was no corresponding change in Word of God can and will involve their actual lives! If we are going sacrifice at times, but Jesus never to claim faith in Jesus Christ, we promised the way would always be must also live that faith out! Je- easy. His promise was the help of sus once said in John 14:15, “If you the Holy Spirit and a glorious end. love me, keep my commandments.” Will He find us faithful? No statement of faith has the in- herent power to change someone’s “Come brethren, you that love the Lord, life—only the Word of God, And taste the sweetness of His Word— through the power of the Holy In Jesus’ way go on! Spirit, can prompt us to godly Our troubles and our trials here, changes. Once again, written sum- Will only make us richer there, maries of belief may be of help in When we arrive at home!” keeping our minds focused upon Christian Filbrun that which is central to our faith, reminding us of those teachings 12 The Testimony March, 2018 HOSPITALITY lands Hurricane and Tidal Wave” Romans 12:13 which claimed the lives of an esti- mated 2,000 persons along the We have long enjoyed exploring Carolina Coast. We assume no cemeteries. We feel we are on sa- body lies beneath that memorial. cred ground there, in the midst of Exploring farther, an impres- a part of God’s people now gone to sive monument and upground their reward, among people who tomb caught our eyes. It stood could have taught (and may still perhaps twelve feet long, five feet teach) us some valuable lessons. wide and four and a half feet It was in this spirit that we en- high. The “afflicted widow and tered, a couple of years ago, a sons” of the man entombed there cemetery in the Waccamaw River had commissioned epitaphs to be delta on the coastal lowlands of engraved in the granite sides and South Carolina. This cemetery top. Some were hardly legible was adjacent to a parish church from stains and years of lichen which had begun to worship in growth. the area in 1737. At that time On the one side we read, “This George Washington was five practical and unpretentious years old. Twenty-nine years ear- Christian was endeared to his lier the Brethren had first bap- family by his domestic virtues, tized at Schwarzenau, Germany. loved by his friends for his sincer- Eighteen years earlier the first ity, his social and many sterling Brethren had come to Pennsylva- traits of character, esteemed by nia Colony. On that humid spring his neighbours for his unassum- day Spanish moss hung from Live ing manners, his kind and concili- Oak trees and Azaleas were in ating disposition, and his true peak bloom. Grave markers dated hospitality.” back to the mid 1700s. We were I thought, “That sounds good!” I met at the gate by a sign that wish that could be said of me— read, “The Holy Ghost is the only although I would that it could be ghost welcome here.” said by God rather than graven on Many stirring thoughts came to my tomb stone. I especially liked mind as we explored this ceme- that about “true hospitality.” tery. There was a stone for Ar- Another side of the sarcopha- thur Belin Flagg, M. D. and his gus read, “Beloved by the poor as wife Georgiana. It read “In a friend ready to assist with gra- Memory of my Loving Father and cious council and out of his abun- Mother Who Were Swept Away dant means affectionately regard- by the Tidal Wave on Magnolia ed by his servants for his justice Beach Oct. 13, 1893.” That was and humanity, respected by his the date of “The Great Sea Is- brother planters, for his sagacity, HOSPITALITY 13 admirable management, and com- grave of a man who was once municative disposition.” From this called “the king of the rice plant- we assumed he was a Southern ers.” At one time he held more “planter” or plantation owner. slaves than any other slaveholder That he had “servants,” consider- in the United States. His estate ing he was a planter/plantation listed 1031 slaves. So much for owner, and the time, we supposed this man’s unpretentious Chris- that he was a slave owner. tian hospitality. Engraving on the top of this But the Spirit was not done for tomb showed that he was born at that day of exploration. Soon we “Brookgreen” and that he died were led to another grave marker there on February 27, 1853. We which is to be the focus of this

have been to Brookgreen Planta- meditation. Not far away was a tion barely seven miles to the marker flat on the ground partial- north. We found later that this ly hidden with sand and the wiry man had owned six rice planta- grass of that area. This woman’s tions consisting of thousands of marker simply gave her name fol- acres. At the time of his death lowed by the line, “Wife • Moth- more rice was being shipped out of er • Sister and Friend” and the Georgetown harbor than any- dates of her birth and her death. where else on earth. Further re- Finally her epitaph read, “SHE search showed that, in our explor- MADE GOOD GRAVY”. ing, we had stumbled onto the Romans 12 declares that we all 14 The Testimony March, 2018 have differing Spiritual gifts, offic- tended beyond those under his es, or callings. Some have respon- bondage. But the other mentions sibilities after one sort and some the special warmth, charity, open- after another in life and in the handedness, and the generosity of church. One monument may con- a woman who spread a bountiful tain a lot of words without saying table for her family and guests. very much of value. Another mark- The most menial service may be er can say volumes in a twelve by exceedingly important to someone. twenty-four inch space. One should And even the lady who makes never apologize for honest work. good gravy shows Christian hospi- There is as much dignity in plow- tality to those about her. May she ing a furrow (or making gravy) as rest in peace. in writing a poem. Marcus Miller Alice Cary once wrote, “True worth is in being, not seeming—In doing, each day that goes by, Some little good—not in dreaming of great things to do by and by. For DRESSING MODESTLY whatever men say in their blind- ness, And spite of the fancies of I’d like to say that it’s because I youth, There’s nothing so kingly read a Bible verse in the Word of as kindness, And nothing so royal God, and that’s what drives me to as truth. We get back our mete as be modest. Although that is very we measure—We cannot do wrong much part of my reasoning, it isn’t and feel right; Nor can we give the entirety of it. I have ten dress- pain and gain pleasure, For justice es hanging on my wall right now, avenges each slight. The air for so I thought I’d share my ten rea- wing of the sparrow; The bush for sons/effects of modesty in my life. the robin and wren, But always 1. I find wearing a long dress to the path that is narrow And be beautiful. Not the vain type of straight for the children of men.” beauty found among movie stars Romans 12:7–13 lists a compre- and pageant queens. I find it beau- hensive series of Christian attrib- tiful in a “I belong to a King” sort utes. The last of all is that the fol- of a way. My dress represents me lower of Christ be “given to hospi- being set apart for my King. tality.” In our cemetery explora- 2. I find that as I wear my mod- tion we had discovered two memo- est dresses I tend to carry myself rials. Each honored a person in a different manner than I did known for hospitality. One memo- when I was one with the world. rialized a man who held sway over 3. My body, whether skinny, more than a thousand souls. His and something to be desired by “true hospitality” undoubtedly ex- others, or plump, is for the Holy DRESSING MODESTLY 15 Spirit to dwell in. It is not only a pants doesn’t make her manly I temple ready for worship. It also is just prefer to keep my attire com- a gift, if God has a husband chosen pletely separate from the confu- for me. It isn’t something for oth- sion of this world (Deut. 22:5). ers to sample visually. 8. Women are no longer recog- 4. I find that people give me re- nized as people uniquely created spect. Men open doors and women by a loving God. The world has call me “ma’am.” People trust me twisted our use into objects (no and I try to honor them by being different from a new chew toy for a trustworthy (Prov. 31:30). dog). Women are used as entice- 5. I am respecting others by ments to sell things to men that keeping my body covered. Men they don’t need. From fancy cars and women are tempted every day to illicit pleasures outside of the by the sins of this ever heating covenant of marriage, women are world. It is impossible for any per- expected to be thrown to the dogs, son to go outside of their home all the while still looking pretty. without the possibility of spiritual 9. The fashion industry is a attack. Magazines at the grocery three trillion dollar monster, tak- store, TVs at restaurants, and the ing the money of the people that people all around them. I respect could be feeding, clothing, sharing the visual struggle that is out the Word, and healing those who there. Just because I’m a woman are literally dying while I type doesn’t make me immune to the this. I want as little to do with temptation to look too long at that industry as I can (I John what I shouldn’t. I do not want to 2:16). be what causes someone to stum- 10. By wearing modest home- ble (Matt. 5:28). made clothing I’m able to let some- 6. The Word of God is filled with one else serve me. I’m also able to commands to be modest. Modesty take no thought to what I wear. I goes beyond what we clothe our- am very fortunate to have people selves in, yet it can be an outward in my life who care enough about reflection of our hearts (I Tim. 2:9, my modesty to ensure I’m able to I Pet. 3:3–4). focus on other important things in 7. I believe in gender roles. God my life (Matt. 6:25). made man and He made woman. These are only a handful of the Each have a specific purpose, one reasons I choose modesty. Do you not being more important than choose modesty too? I’d be inter- another. I want to look different ested in hearing why you do. from the men around me. I don’t You see, years ago a young girl believe we were meant to be (me) saw a modestly dressed plain transgender in any way, shape, or woman in a parking lot along the form. Although a woman wearing side of the road. How we dress 16 The Testimony March, 2018 does matter. It is a witness. Had I and body to any degree—anything, not seen that “Amish” lady when I if it can only live. It will allow victo- was a young girl I would never ry over pride, penuriousness, and have thought to start asking the passion, if not destroyed itself. It questions that would lead me will permit any number of rivals, so down the path I’m on now. To God long as it can be promised the first be the glory in all that we do in- place. It will consent to live in a cluding our simple modest dress. hovel, in a garret, in the slums, in Who knows what seeds will be planted by your “day-to-day walk” faraway heathendom, if only its life with the Lord? You too may be the can be spared. very reason someone stops to ask, It will endure any garb, any “Why is she dressed funny?” and fare, any mental service rather that little girl may grow to be a than die. daughter of the King, and your But this concession must not be sister in Christ. granted. Self is too great a foe to If I could, I would find that the child of God. It is everywhere woman and embrace her in a present. It is the fly that spoils the hug…(no, I’d kiss her) as a symbol ointment, the little fox that spoils of the bond we have in Christ. I’d the vine. It provokes God and man look her in the eyes and say, and its own possessor. It drives to “Thank you!” But alas, I can’t. I insomnia, invalidism, and insani- can, however, follow in her foot- ty. It produces disorder and de- steps and be a modest example. rangement in the whole physical, Will you take seriously your role mental, and spiritual constitution. as a set-apart woman of God? It talks back, excuses and vindi- Nicci Price cates itself, and never apologizes. It must die. “Dying self” is a poetic expression. It sounds romantic, heroic,

chivalrous, supernatural, saint- SELF like. It is beautiful to read about, The last enemy destroyed in the easy talk about, entertaining to believer is self. Self dies hard. It will theorize about, fascinating to make any concessions if allowed to write about, refreshing to dream live. Self will permit the believer to about. But it is hard to do. There’s do anything, give anything, sacrifice the rub. But it must be done anything, suffer anything, be any- (Rom. 12:1, 2). There is no abiding thing, go anywhere, take any liber- peace, power, nor prosperity with- ties, bear any crosses, afflict soul out it. THE GREATEST JOURNEY 17 We must die to good deeds and Lord, thy love at last hath con- to bad deeds, to success and to quered: failure, to superiority and to infe- Grant me now my soul’s petition— riority, to leading and to following, “None of self, and all of thee. to exaltation and humiliation, to “None of self, and all of thee. our life work, to our friends, to our From The Vindicator, August 2003 foes, to every manifestation of self, and used by permission. and to self itself. Jesus said, “The Author Unknown. hour is come, that the Son of man Selected by the Editor should be glorified.”

“Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth THE GREATEST JOURNEY forth much fruit. He that loveth Recently, I read a book, “Great his life shall lose it; and he that Journeys.” One was a trip all the hateth his life (himself) in this way down the Mississippi River in world shall keep it unto life eter- a paddle wheeler. Another was a nal.” “If any man will come after trip across the Sahara Desert on me, let him deny himself.” the back of a camel, a slow jour- Christ could not be glorified till ney. Another was a trip to after death. Nor can He be glori- the Holy Land where Jesus fied in His people till self dies. In walked while here on earth, but close connection with these pas- the greatest journey of all was sages, Jesus says, “And I, if I be when Jesus came all the way lifted up from the earth, I will from Heaven down to earth. draw all men unto me.” Self lifted He left the glories of up repels. Lifted up with Christ on the Kingdom of Heaven to come to the cross, it draws. Happy are this lower sin-cursed earth. those who can say with Paul, from All through the Old Testament a real experience: “I am crucified are prophecies of His coming to with Christ: nevertheless I live; earth, beginning in Genesis 3:15. Moses also, foretold of Jesus’ yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: coming. “For Moses truly said unto and the life which I now live in the the fathers, A prophet shall the flesh I live by the faith of the Son Lord your God raise up unto you of of God, who loved me, and gave your brethren, like unto me; him himself for me” (Gal. 2:20). shall ye hear in all things whatso- Higher than the highest heavens, ever he shall say unto you” (Acts Deeper than the deepest sea. 3:22). 18 The Testimony March, 2018 In the book of Micah it is written is an everlasting one. Jesus said to that He would be born in Bethle- Pilate, “My kingdom is not of this hem Ephratah which was 6 miles world: if my kingdom were of this southwest of Jerusalem. There was world, then would my servants another village in Israel fight, that I should not be deliv- named Bethlehem northwest of ered to the Jews: but now is my Nazareth. Bethlehem in the He- kingdom not from hence.” brew tongue means House of Bread. One sister wrote on a Christmas Micah reveals the truth of who Je- card, “He died for us.” This was sus is by saying, “…whose goings really the important mission of forth have been from of old, from Jesus’ great journey to earth, everlasting.” He is proclaiming the along with His resurrection. deity and eternal existence of the According to the book of John, it Messiah, an everlasting Ruler! can appear that John the Apostle Going back to Isaiah we find was the only disciple who had the many prophecies concerning courage to follow Jesus all the way Christ. The one we are most famil- to the cross. All the rest of the iar with is Isaiah 53 where His suf- fering is prophesied. This prophecy disciples forsook Him and fled in was seven centuries before Christ fear. and it wouldn’t fit another person We know John loved Jesus, and other than Him. Isaiah also proph- think he called to remembrance esied His virgin birth in Isaiah Jesus’ teachings to the disciples, (7:14) and finally a new Heaven saying, “the Son of man must suf- and a new Earth to be created (Isa. fer many things…and be killed, 65 and 66). More prophecies are and after three days rise again.” found in Zechariah and Malachi Mary wasn’t the mother of God and also the Psalms. as one group says. As Mary stood Many of the learned men by the cross of Jesus, we believe, in Israel could not see Him as she remembered His miraculous their Savior, but the common peo- birth along with Simeon’s bless- ple heard Him gladly. The learned ing, “Behold, this child is set for men were focused on keeping the the fall and rising again of many old law. They thought they had in Israel…(Yea a sword shall Moses and the prophets and didn’t need a Savior. When their Messi- pierce through thine own soul al- ah came He would deliver them so) that the thoughts of many from Roman rule. Jesus didn’t hearts be revealed” (Luke 2:34, just come to deliver the Jews from 35). Perhaps Mary’s musings the Romans, but to deliver us from were, “Emmanuel my Kinsman Satan’s kingdom. Jesus’ kingdom redeemer” (from the book of Ruth). FOLLOWING JESUS 19 We too can say, “Emmanuel our calling of God in Christ Jesus.” Kinsman redeemer!” This commitment most likely cost We sometimes sing Jesus was him his family, his social recogni- “Born to reign in us forever, Born tion and many comforts of his old a child and yet a king.” The last life. part of His great journey will be Jesus, our Lord, said that if we when He returns to earth to set up would follow Him, we must deny His kingdom, and reign as King ourselves, take up our cross, and forever. He said, “Behold I come follow Him. quickly: blessed is he that keepeth It was He who said, in Luke the sayings of the prophecy of this 9:62, “No man, having put his book” (Rev. 22:7). In school I re- hand to the plough, and looking member singing part of a famous back, is fit for the Kingdom of piece of music, “The Messi- God.” ah.” This ends with the words, “Of He said in another verse, “Let His kingdom there shall be no end, the dead bury their dead: but go no end, no end!” thou and preach the Kingdom of God.” Darlene Killingsworth A songwriter wrote, “I have de-

cided to follow Jesus, No turning

back.” There is absolutely no hint

in the Bible that one can be pleas-

ing to the Lord without being will- FOLLOWING JESUS ing to follow Him, regardless of Dr. Richard Donovan the circumstances. When Hernando Cortes, the This writer wonders whether Spanish explorer (1485–1547) and one can be a good disciple if he or his crew landed in Central Mexico she insists upon spending much (where the Aztec Indians were), time doing anything else. they burned their ships to elimi- How about you, my friend? nate all means of return to their Have you burned the boats? Jesus homeland. This is a very good il- does not invite us to come and try lustration of what one must do Him. He bids us to come and trust when he or she decides to follow Him. He is not an experiment. He Christ. is an experience. The apostle Paul wrote in Phi- Selected from The Brookville lippians 3:13–14 that he was Star by, “Forgetting those things which are Sam and Eva Boone behind,” and was “pressing toward the mark for the prize of the high 20 The Testimony March, 2018 TECHNOLOGY All things I have are not my own, I yield them up before the throne. This little laptop is not mine, my Lord in Heaven, it shall be Thine. The time I spend before the screen, is by my Lord in Heaven seen. So help me Lord, this laptop use, and as it’s programs I peruse… May I not waste an ounce of time, But typing in some verse and rhyme, Give Glory to my Lord above, who watches with His eyes of Love. I give this laptop, Lord, to You. Please help me know what I should do, To use it best, to bless You most, surrendered to the Holy Ghost.

Reuben J. Shankster

Meditations

In the third month they began to lay the foundation…II Chron. 31:7. An inward prayer life is adjusting one’s attention and focus. Flowers result from sunshine and rain—not thunder. Do you feel rejected? Make Jesus your example. The weakest man can still carry a grudge. Too often, fear trumps faith. Read II Chronicles 7:14. Be vigilant. Questions to Ponder

This section offers some questions to think about, or for Sunday afternoon discussions, or to prompt future articles from our readers, etc. Readers are encouraged to offer questions. Question #1 — Fellowship with Question #2 — Is this realistic? others is a wonderful thing. All Question #3 — How would you say our life we each have sought to a believer’s desires are changed or have fellowship with others, from sanctified in Christ? our infancy until now. In what way does the Lord change: We have heard it said that before -the need for friendship/fellowship. we gave our life to God, our search -the need for communication? for fellowship was for selfish rea- -the need for entertainment? sons. But after we turned to the -the need for personal attention? Lord, our quest for fellowship has -the need for compliments? primarily been to bless others. -the need for encouragement? Would you say this is true? -the need for fulfillment? GENERAL ITEMS 21 General Items

BAPTISMS DISTRICT NOTICES Dec. 17, 2017; Mt. Zion, PA Columbia River Cody Layman The members of the Columbia River Chelsea Layman District, New Conference in Pasco, Feb. 3, 2018; Cascade Valley, WA Washington, express appreciation for Triston Fingerle all the prayers and financial support Claudia Hubbard received from sources across our brotherhood over the last two years as NEW MEMBERS RECEIVED we fulfilled our arrangement to gain Dec. 17, 2017; Mt. Zion, PA full ownership of the current Pasco Jenna Layman meeting house. Your support was instrumental in helping us make full

payment to the Other Conference for COMMISSIONS their half interest in the current meet- Jan. 17, 2018; Cutler Ridge, IN ing house in an agreed and timely Kevin Jacobs (and wife Lori) manner. We invite all to come worship Called to the office of Deacon with us when your travels bring you this way. Our homes are open to you.

COMMUNION NOTICES Elwin Young Mar. 3, 2018 ...... Morning Star, OH Mar. 10, 2018 ...... Dallas, OR Mar. 24, 2018 ...... Mt. Zion, PA Covenant Valley Mar. 31, 2018 ...... Modesto, CA The members of Covenant Valley Mar. 31, 2018 ...... Shiloh, OH district in Virginia desire to share (at the Stillwater meeting house) their meeting schedule. Their worship Apr. 7, 2018 ...... Salem, OH schedule is first, third, and fifth Sun- Apr. 7, 2018 ...... Cascade Valley, WA days at 10:00 a.m. Apr. 14, 2018 ...... Fair Haven, KS The first and fifth Sunday services Apr. 14, 2018 ...... Fall Creek, IN are at Bruce Layman’s at his resi- (at the Beech Grove meeting house) dence shop, and the third Sunday is to Apr. 21, 2018 ...... Caldwell, ID be at Leonard Hubbard’s home. Apr. 21, 2018 ...... Sugar Grove, OH It is also their desire to ask for min- Apr. 28, 2018 ...... Bear Creek, OH isterial aid on the fifth Sunday. The Apr. 28, 2018 ...... Cutler Ridge, IN months that have a fifth Sunday in Sept. 29, 2018 ...... Covenant Valley, VA 2018 are April, July, September and Sept. 29, 2018 ...... Pleasant View, OH December. All are welcome to these Oct. 13, 2018 ...... Lower Twin, OH services. Nov. 3, 2018 ...... Columbia River, WA Everett Wray 22 The Testimony March, 2018 poems

LOOSENESS George Brunk This is an age of looseness and crime From the heathen debased to the rich of the time. The tendency strong in church and in state Is to go where you please and leave open the gate. It may be that old Dobbin, quite stiff in his knees Will stand in the park though not tied to the trees, And Spitfire, the colt that will never be tame, Has broken six halters and made himself lame. But will this be excuse to throw halters away, To let each horse decide where to go or to stay? Then why do men fight against law and good rules For guidance of wise and restraining of fools? For horses or men there is only one hope, If they break their restrictions, just double the rope. And if the good laws are wisely applied They may learn how to stand without being tied, I dislike to see boys not as high as your shoulder That know ten times more than persons much older, And when Father and Mother lay down some restrictions Get pouty and sullen and begin to cause friction. I never saw Master or Miss such a saint But that they were bettered by parents’ restraint. But many a one to the gallows has come For want of a law and a rod in the home. And then when it comes to the laws of the land Some men thus tied will not even stand. Some men for a dollar will take a man’s life Or cheat him in trading or marry his wife. Or steal from his neighbor his chains or his axes, Or give him short measure or be dodging his taxes. But in spite of law-breaking there is not a man Not constantly helped by the laws of the land. In matters of Church we know very well No law of itself can save one from hell; Yet by heeding good laws a man’s ways are made clean And pitfalls avoided that he never had seen. POEMS 23

The flesh can be checked and the conscience alarmed, And evils suppressed by which others are harmed. By law man is brought on this side the grave, To the point where the Word and the Spirit can save. Now if children are wiser than matron or sire And safely can play with poison and fire, And loungers in stores with soap-box for stool Know better then Congress how nations to rule, And the wisdom of God in one single brother Is greater than Bible and Conference together, Then nail up the church! Lay the Book on the shelf And let every man be a law to himself! If opposers of law just only could see They are cutting a limb ’twixt themselves and the tree And if they succeed they not only will fall, But down will come Home, Church, Nation, and all. If men want no law but their own precious will, Let them herd with the bushmen till they get their fill. I think one such year would certainly end it They would favor God’s law and forever defend it. Selected by, Christopher Lewis

AS WE TRUST CHRIST Author Unknown As we trust Christ—Love Him and obey, Our God supplies our needs each day

As we trust Christ—Love His pure Word, Our needs are met—our prayers are heard.

As we trust Christ—Trust and not doubt, God answers prayer and works things out. Selected by, Sam and Eva Boone

24 The Testimony March, 2018 Obituaries

BOWER — Lowell Elmer was born Boone, and Jimmy Bryant. Brother June 16, 1946, and departed this life Darrell and Brother Billy spoke of peacefully at his home gaining his how green pastures make fat cattle heavenly reward on February 23, and the responsibility of a good shep- 2017, at the age of 70. He was preced- herd. We must all feed the sheep of ed in death by his parents Elmer Jo- the world. We heard green pastures siah and Lucille Huffman Bower. work in three ways: 1. Pastures pro- He was born in his family home in duce food. God brought us to a place Montgomery County, Virginia, and to be fed on February 27. 2. Pastures spent his entire life farming the land have faithful shepherds. We should including dairy farming beginning be faithful in all we do. 3. Pastures from a young age and beef farming up have fences. Build good fences in until his death. He drove a school bus our lives. Ask yourself today—Does for Montgomery County Schools for your life reflect a pasture that makes many years. He was renowned for his fat cattle? Have you fed the calves love of farming, his family, the coun- today? The Good Shepherd, Jesus, tryside, and most of all our Lord and said “Feed my sheep” (John 21:16). Savior. He had a tender heart and In our feedings, it should bring was a man of great integrity. peace; share this peace with the He found the need for his Savior in calves of the world. October of 1974 and was baptized We sang Hymns 463, 494, 157, 53, into the Old German Baptist Breth- and Lowell’s favorite 483—”Rock of ren Church. At the time of his death, Ages.” As the grave was being filled, he was member of the Old German we sang “I’ll Fly Away,” “On Jordan’s Baptist Brethren—New Conference. Stormy Banks,” and “Bind Us Togeth- Lowell and Betty Martin were unit- er” to name a few. ed in marriage on April 13, 1968, and Lowell was laid to rest at Peters shared 48 years in a joyful marriage. Creek Cemetery and we all await the They were blessed with four children, resurrection day to see him again! Patrick Bower and wife Lisa, Jeffrey “Blessed are the dead which die in Bower and wife Wendy, Paige Bower, the Lord” (Rev. 14:13). and Leanna Bower; five grandchil- The Family dren, Jordan Bower and wife Ashley, Haden Bower and wife Kourtney, Cody Bower, Levi, and Allison Bower; GISH — Ronald Herman, went to two great-grandchildren, Josiah and be with his Lord October 9, 2017. He Jedidiah Bower. Lowell was also sur- was born to Herman and Vera vived by one sister Eileen Edwards (Onkst) Gish on June 8, 1931, in and her husband Barry, numerous Whittier, California, where he grew nephews, nieces, and cousins. Along up. He enjoyed his early life in Whit- with his family, he leaves behind tier and remembered it fondly many friends, a wonderful communi- throughout his adult life. He enjoyed ty, and his church family. the outdoors and especially spending Funeral services were conducted time in the Bishop area with family February 27, 2017 at Simpson Fu- and friends. On October 23, 1949, neral Home using a portion of Ron made a public profession of Psalm 23 and Ezekiel 34 being led faith and was baptized into Jesus by Brothers Darrell Boyd, Billy Christ. He was a member of the Old OBITUARIES 25

German Baptist Brethren Church, Wilson Bauman, Ava Bauman, Isla New Conference. Bauman, and Andrew Adams; two On July 5, 1952, he married Ivalyn sisters: Phyllis Rumble and Shirley Naomi Blocher and they made their Bauman, and two sisters-in-law, home in Whittier, where their chil- Marcele and Wayne Jarboe, and Dor- dren were born. They moved to Mod- la and James Shuman. esto in 1965 where they resided on Ron loved the Lord Jesus, was a Kiernan Avenue for the remainder of dedicated student of His Word and his life. He worked at the Hershey anticipated His return. In his waning plant in Oakdale for nearly 30 years, days he frequently spoke in anticipa- and was active in raising squabs for tion and wonder of the glories of over 50 years, sharing that business heaven. Now, that reality is his and with his father-in-law, Chester he lives with the saints in heaven in Blocher, for more than two decades. the presence of the Lord Jesus. We Ron was a diligent and faithful anticipate a glad reunion with Dad on steward of the blessings God be- the eternal shore, where the re- stowed upon him. He enjoyed work- deemed of all ages worship our Sav- ing with his hands, and was a good iour, face to face! mechanic, keeping his own vehicles The Family as well as others’ in good running condition. During the summer of

2017 Ron spent several weeks in the hospital, and when at home found his BRUBAKER — Arthena Helen health declining. His last day on (Wray) was born on June 21, 1930, at earth was spent with several mem- Sawyer, Kansas, to John I. and Etta bers of his family at Doctor’s Medical (Flory) Wray. She went to be with the Center, where he enjoyed interaction Lord on November 26, 2017, at the with his wife, children, grandchildren age of 87 years. Mother accepted Je- and great-grandchildren. In the early sus as her Savior and was baptized morning hours of Monday, October 9, on August 4, 1946, at the age of 16 Dad answered the ultimate call of the with six of her close friends. She was Lord as he was peacefully ushered a member of the Old German Baptist into the presence of Jesus. Brethren Church – New Conference Ron was preceded in death by his to which she remained faithful. parents, father-in-law and mother-in- She was united in marriage to her law Chester and Miriam Blocher, and childhood sweetheart, Donald Bru- two brothers-in-law, Ward Rumble baker, on August 16, 1947. They en- and Oliver Bauman. joyed 70 wonderful years of married Remaining to fondly remember life together. Their home was blessed him are his wife Ivalyn; children: with four children. In July of 1960, Darrell and June Gish, Harlan Gish, the family circle was broken when Jaima Gish, and Janine and Vince their oldest son, Sheldon Gail was Tye; 10 grandchildren: Dinah and carried to be “Safe in the arms of Je- Greg Bergerson, Kevin and Helen sus” due to an accident. Mother and Gish, Cheridy Gish, Tia Gish, Dad walked hand in hand through Roseanne and Morgan Adams, An- this time of grief together, with the drew Tye, Melissa and Dan Bauman, Lord’s help and support of their Sarah Tye, Meredith and Michael church family. Grover, and Nelson Tye; 7 great- In January of 1960, they were called grandchildren: Ethan Bergerson, to the office of Deacon. Mother served Elaina Bergerson, Liam Bergerson, faithfully with Dad for many years. 26 The Testimony March, 2018

They lived on a farm southeast of by a large number of brethren, sisters, Sawyer, Kansas, for 66 years. Mother relatives and friends. Brother John worked tirelessly by Dad’s side in the Wolf opened the service with the hymn dairy barn and on the farm, in addi- “Rock of Ages.” He shared comforting tion to meeting the family’s needs day thoughts from Saint John’s Gospel by day. She also enjoyed preparing with a reminder that the believer’s meals and extending hospitality to one departure from this life is farewell, not and all. They enjoyed traveling among good-bye. Brother Glen Landes gra- the brethren and spending their win- ciously spoke from Philippians 1:21, ters in Florida. “For to me to live is Christ, and to die The example of her faith in God, is gain.” “Jerusalem My Happy Home” her loving care, and concern for her was sung and other thoughts were children, grandchildren and great- gleaned from II Corinthians 4:18 and II grandchildren, will always be remem- Corinthians 5:1–8, calling us to think bered. on things eternal with the promise of Mother is survived by her loving our blessed hope in Christ. Revelation husband, Donald; sons, Randy and 20:6, 21:3–5, 22:12–21 are the powerful wife Carol, Doug and wife Kathy, both testimonies of God’s everlasting King- of Sawyer, Kansas, and daughter Joy dom, “…even so come, Lord, Jesus.” Elaine Siroky and husband Brad of While viewing we sang hymns 498, Edmond, Oklahoma. She was a special 451, 484, 123, 459, 494, 491, 499 and Grandma to her 11 grandchildren, 506. Graveside service and burial was Rachelle and Rodney Miller, Regina at Pleasant View Cemetery. We sang and Rico Grant, Beth and Darwin hymn 403, and Brother Merlin Reece Fisher, Darren and Alissa Brubaker, shared memories of how Mother Beth and Ivan Miller, April and touched so many of our lives. Hymns Dustin Denlinger, Brandon Siroky, “I’ll Fly Away,” “How Great Thou Art,” Brandy and Coby Tresner, Bryce Si- “Jesus Loves Me” and “Amazing Grace” roky, Kodi and Kim Siroky, Kole Si- were sung while filling the grave. roky, and her 24 great-grandchildren. “Precious in the sight of the LORD is Also surviving are her sister-in-law, the death of his saints” (Ps. 116:15). Helen Wray, brother-in-law and sister The Family -in-law, Joel and Lorraine Brubaker, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Preceding her in death were her parents, son Sheldon Gail, sister Eve- AUSTIN — Harold Kenneth passed lyn Peters, brother J. Donald Wray, peacefully at home into the arms of our infant brother Harold Wray, father-in- loving Savior on December 26, 2017, at law and mother-in law Everett and the age of 82 years. Harold was born in Hazel Brubaker. Frankfort, Indiana, on August 16, Mother fell on November 7, and on 1935, to Willie and Clara Austin. November 20, due to further complica- In Modesto on July 2, 1960, he mar- tions, was air flighted to Oklahoma ried the love of his life, Nina Blom University Medical Center in Oklaho- (daughter of Fred and Martha Blom), ma City, where on November 26 she and they were blessed with four chil- took her Heavenly flight. dren: Gail, Greg, Gary, and Steve. The funeral service was Friday, De- Together they provided a Christian cember 1, 2017, at 10:00 a.m. in the home, where they raised and cared Sand Creek meeting house, attended deeply for their family. OBITUARIES 27

Harold was called a “very special Austin, Gary and Becky Austin, Steve friend” by many. He had a servant’s and Heather Austin, all living in Mod- heart of kindness, compassion, esto, California. His passing leaves 14 thoughtfulness, patience and godly loved grandchildren and 5 great- wisdom. Harold worked diligently grandchildren: Brian, Shanda, Adessa, throughout his life as a postal worker Ian, and Brayden Brovont; Daniel, and walnut farmer. Holly, Cody and Paige Brovont; Erica He was a member of the Old German and Connor Enz; Courtney and Mat- Baptist Brethren Church—New Confer- thew Tyner; Sierra Austin; Avery and ence and highly treasured the services Julianne Austin; Allie Austin; Chase and Blake Austin. Also surviving is a and fellowship. Harold loved Jesus with sister, Thelma Reavis and a sister-in- all of his heart, was baptized as a be- law, Leaora Austin. Preceding Harold liever in June of 1960, and was anointed in death is a brother, Charles Austin in September of 2014. and a brother-in-law, Paul Reavis. Harold and Nina enjoyed traveling, Visitation was held at the West and he often said, “It’s a beautiful day Modesto Old German Baptist Brethren for touring the universe!” Family activi- Church—New Conference, Modesto, ties were especially important to him as California on December 29. The funer- well as creating fond memories, includ- al service was at the same location on ing camping trips, sporting events, December 30. Internment followed the birthday parties, and holiday gather- service at Wood Colony Cemetery. ings. God blessed the family with a won- This sweet, caring father gave his derful Christmas together, just a day best to his last day, and we will miss before his home going. Although he was him greatly. We have great confidence very weak, he joined in the family circle that Jesus welcomed Harold with open to pray a blessing over his family. arms saying, “Well done good and Surviving Harold is his loving wife, faithful servant…enter into the joy of Nina, along with their children, Gail your Lord!” and Gary Brovont, Greg and Debra The Family Terms be based on Scripture. References are appreciated. Shorter focused articles Subscriptions should be made are more desirable than articles that through the congregational contact or move from one topic to another. Se- through The Testimony office. Subscrip- lected material will be considered. tion price is $20.00 per year. New sub- Original writings are preferred. It is scriptions should be paid (prorated) recommended that writers submit through the remainder of the current themselves to the Spirit, which re- year. All renewals begin at the first of veals the will of God to the Church in the calendar year. Newly married and every age, according to the varied those unable to pay for a subscription needs and circumstances. may receive a free subscription through Written articles should be legible. the agent of their local congregation. Typed material is preferred and should be double-spaced. Electronic trans- Contributors mission or CD will be accepted. The Authors of essays, devotionals, po- author’s name and address must be ems, etc. are asked to review the included on all material. An attempt Statement of Purpose on the back will be made to contact the author of page of this periodical. Articles should articles that are not accepted.

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The Testimony Committee Roger Rapp Lowell Miller, Editor Dean Kinsley Gary Peters Larry Bower Associate Editors Marcus Miller Darryl Filbrun