the editor’s CONTENTS view OCTOBER 2011 Volume 123 No. 7

LARRY D. SMITH FEATURES A Call To The Conservative 3 Holiness Movement God’s Optimistic Grace 21 A CALL TO OUR MOVEMENT by Matt Palm

ledging deep concern “for the future of the Holiness DEPARTMENTS Movement, and especially of the Conservative Holi- Pness Movement of which we are part,” GBS’s Bible The Editor’s View 2 and theology faculty has issued an imperative “Call” fea- News From The Hilltop 8 tured in this issue of God’s Revivalist. Its message is so cru- Revivalist Family 8 cial, as we believe, that it deserves the pages that it takes to Letters To The Editor 13 publish it. On a monthly basis, moreover, we intend to Dear Phil 14 reprint each of the subdivisions that comprise the “Call,” to- World Pulse 15 gether with appropriate commentary and application. Student Focus 15 Both GBS and the Revivalist predate the CHM by many Called Unto Holiness 16 decades, but we have served it continuously since its forma- tion a half-century ago. We believe that we are serving it again Revivalist Pulpit 17 by raising issues that are tied directly to our prosperity and, Alumni News 20 perhaps, even to our survival. For who can doubt that we are The World To Win 23 facing an identity crisis that not only questions the validity of Thoughts For The Quiet Hour 23 our past but also threatens the promise of our future? On one hand, there is increasing uncertainty among us about the lifestyle disciplines that played so decisive a role STAFF in our formation. In part, this is because we have failed to train our youth in the Scriptural imperatives that validate Shane Muir, assistant graphic designer those disciplines. It also comes in reaction to the abuses Kevin Moser, art director, managing editor and extremes that sometimes have marked our witness. Jon Plank, assistant graphic designer, webmaster Doubtless, we’re also witnessing the usual pattern of “his- torical drift”—fueled by increasing affluence and the desire Larry D. Smith, editor for social respectability—that seems to impact most reli- gious structures. Compounding this problem is a narrow- God’s Revivalist and Bible Advocate (ISSN 0745-0788) is published monthly except for ness in understanding and a lopsidedness in development combined issues in January-February and June-July-August for $12.00 per year ($28.00, Canada; $45.00, other countries) by the Revivalist Press of God’s Bible that have moved us painfully away from the careful balance School, College and Missionary Training Home, 1810 Young Street, Cincinnati, Ohio that is our heritage as Christians of Wesleyan descent. 45202. Periodical postage paid at Cincinnati, Ohio, and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to God’s Revivalist and Bible Advocate, 1810 In this “Call” sent out from the historic “Mount of Young Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202. Blessings,” we make no claim either to spiritual superiority God’s Revivalist and Bible Advocate, the official organ of God’s Bible School, is a maga- or to infallible perception. But every word that we have zine founded by Martin Wells Knapp in July of 1888. We seek to proclaim the good news of salvation; to stir a revival spirit among Christians; to stimulate Christian growth and written is offered humbly in prayerful and urgent hope that responsible Christian living; to present the happenings and interests of God’s Bible it will encourage reflection, renewal, and reform. Ours is School. Please obtain permission before reprinting any articles from God’s Revivalist and Bible clearly a conservative voice, urging uncompromising alle- Advocate. Unsolicited manuscripts are welcomed, but not returned. giance to the valid principles of our origin. But it is also a God’s Bible School and College seeks to glorify God and to serve His Church by pro- contemporary one, clearly appealing “to our entire move- viding higher education centered in Holy Scripture and shaped by Wesleyan convic- tion, thus preparing faithful servants to proclaim Jesus Christ and spread scriptural holi- ment to unite with us joyfully in this commitment, pledging ness throughout the world. uncompromising faithfulness to God’s Word and to creative God’s Bible School and College does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national or ethnic origin, or against otherwise qualified handicapped persons in its relevance in our ministry.” admission of students or employment of its faculty and staff. Contact us by telephone at (513) 721-7944 (Revivalist Press, ext. 1351); by fax at (513) 763-6649; by email at [email protected] or [email protected]. Visit us online at www.gbs.edu or www.godsrevivalist.com.

GOD’S REVIVALIST and BIBLE ADVOCATE cover photo ©2011 iStockphoto 02 A CALL TO THE CONSERVATIVE HOLINESS MOVEMENT by the President and Faculty of the Division of Ministerial Education, God’s Bible School and College, Cincinnati, Ohio

INTRODUCTION. Deeply concerned for the future of the Holiness Movement, and especially of the Conservative Holiness Movement of which we are a part, we issue this call for the full and vigorous recovery of our heritage as

Christians of Wesleyan conviction. We share the distress of those who A renewed warn of “historical drift,” spiritual apathy, and surrender to the depraved commitment to secular culture that surrounds us. We submit that a renewed commit- the essential ment to the essential principles of scriptural Christianity which we have principles of received in classical Methodist belief, piety, and mission will prepare scriptural and strengthen us for the challenges that confront us. We appeal, there- Christianity fore, to our entire movement to unite with us joyfully in this commit- will prepare ment, pledging uncompromising faithfulness to God’s Word and to cre- and strengthen ative relevance in our ministry. Upon the original foundations of our us for the movement, therefore, we must build determined, effective, and contem- challenges that porary witness to God’s unchanging summons to holy hearts and holy lives. confront us. Implicit in this recovery are the following specific themes:

I. A CALL TO BIBLICAL FIDELITY proved by it, must not be required of any man as an article of belief or be thought As Wesleyans we affirm that the Holy requisite or necessary to salvation.” Scriptures, as the inspired and inerrant Yet we have often focused on issues and Word of God, are the basis of authority in made demands which we cannot legitimately the Church, normative for all our faith and establish from the Scriptures. As a result, trivial practice. We declare with the English notions and speculations at times have marred Reformers, “Holy Scripture contains every- our witness. We call, therefore, for renewed sub- thing that is necessary for salvation, so that mission to the absolute authority of the Bible, whatever is not stated in it, or cannot be not as a revered icon, but as the touchstone for

OCTOBER 2011 03 both our personal lives and our public procla- in all times and places. It is founded by Our mation. For in every age, the Church must sub- Lord and established upon Himself, and we mit itself unconditionally to the Word of God, claim His infallible promise that the gates of interpreting it in harmony with itself, in keeping hell shall never withstand it. As we live out our with the best insights of historical and literary faithfulness to Him, we must also live in faith- study, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and fulness to the Church, which is His body and with respect for the historic understanding of bride, living and dying in its communion. We devout Christian scholarship. affirm the traditional Protestant insistence that the visible Church is the congregation of the II. A CALL TO HISTORIC ROOTS faithful in which the “pure Word of God is AND CONTINUITY preached and the sacraments duly adminis- tered according to Christ’s ordinance.” We gladly affirm our allegiance to the clas- Too often, however, we have adopted a sical Christianity of the centuries, confessing its narrow and individualistic approach to our faith, sharing its historic witness, living out its Christian Faith. Sometimes we have so em- godly discipline, and claiming all of its treasures phasized personal spiritual relationship that as our own. We give God praise for our legacy we have forgotten that relationship must be of evangelical Christianity magnificently set realized, strengthened, and advanced within forth in the heroic lives of ancient the company of God’s people. At other Christians, the faithful witnesses of times, we have imagined that we were the the Middle Ages, the stalwart testi- Church, or at least that the Holiness Too often we mony of the Reformers, the biblical Movement was its most significant compo- proclamation of the Wesleys, and nent rather than only a tiny segment of its have smugly the earnest piety of the early fellowship. We call, therefore, for renewed Holiness Movement. We rejoice in understanding of the biblical doctrine of the disconnected the lives and ministry of earnest fol- Church as “the pillar and ground of the lowers of Our Lord from every truth,” reverence for its orthodox confes- ourselves from branch of orthodox Christianity. sions, submission to its holy discipline, and our Christian But too often we have smugly faithfulness to its common life. As a coalition disconnected ourselves from our of holiness believers within its communion, past; and in so Christian past; and in so doing we we gladly but humbly offer our gifts to the have become theologically shallow, universal Church—gifts which center in our doing we have spiritually weak, and blind to the historic focus on holiness of heart and life. work of God in the lives of others. become blind We have withdrawn ourselves into IV. A CALL TO CHRISTIAN HOLINESS to the work of protected enclaves, congratulating ourselves on our superiority over Holiness of heart and life flowing out of love God in the other Christians, sometimes refusing for God, as we believe, is the “central idea of fellowship with them because of our Christianity,” for this is God’s redemptive pur- lives of others. disagreement in doctrine or in prac- pose for our fallen humanity. Holiness is both tice, and ignoring the continuing His gift and our pursuit, and as the writer to work of the Holy Spirit throughout Hebrews reminds us, without it none of us shall all the universal Church. At best, this ever see the Lord. Negatively, holiness is separa- is lamentable ignorance, and at worst, sectarian tion from all that is sinful and unlike Chris; and bigotry. We call therefore, with John Wesley, for positively, separation unto godliness, righteous- a “league offensive and defensive with every ness, and full Christlikeness. It begins in regener- soldier of Christ,” reclaiming the richness of our ation by the Spirit, flourishes in the work of en- Christian heritage and our essential unity with tire sanctification, and advances throughout our all who truly confess Him as Lord. lives. As Wesleyans, we reassert the biblical pas- sion of our forebears “to reform the continent III. A CALL TO CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY and spread scriptural holiness over these lands.” We confess, however, that our passion Union with Christ establishes membership for holiness of heart and life has sometimes in His Church, the community of the faithful, been reduced merely to external codes and

GOD’S REVIVALIST and BIBLE ADVOCATE 04 prohibitions, and “holier-than-thou” attitudes lifestyle, but all this must be within this warm toward those who differ from us. As such we and gracious context of loving what God loves have become shell without substance, and and hating what God hates. betrayed the Scriptural mandate to be holy, As Methodists, therefore, we call our because the Lord our God is holy. We there- movement to return to our originating com- fore call our movement to a renewed love mitment to principled covenant with God, for God from which will blossom consistent which, according to the General Rules of and winsome lives of holiness, first in moti- 1743, demanded these commitments: (1) the vating purpose, and second, in outward con- renunciation of all known sin; (2) the embrac- duct. This means that we must continue to ing of all positive virtue, and (3) the faithful accentuate both of the definitive moments practice of the means of grace, especially “the we identify as works of divine grace, conver- instituted means of grace,” defined as the sion and entire sanctification, all the while Word, prayer, fasting, Christian fellowship, and giving proper attention to the progressive the Lord’s Supper. This demands disciplined growth in grace by the Spirit and the increas- life within the community of the Church, a re- ing separation from the world which our newing of our historic pattern of spiritual for- Methodist forebears so firmly stressed. mation through small accountability groups, such as the class meeting, and faithful submis- V. A CALL TO METHODIST PIETY sion to healthy and holy discipline, while at the same time we are alto- Our Methodist heritage has underscored gether dependent upon the gra- the necessity of devout personal piety cious work of the Spirit who Gladly we grounded in sincere love and profound rever- changes us “from glory to glory” ence for God. This implies binding and life- into the likeness of Our Lord. reaffirm our long covenant with Him, living faith in Christ our great sin-bearer, allegiance to the inner VI. A CALL TO AUTHORITY IN traditional principle of “jealous godly fear,” commitment THE CHURCH to disciplined discipleship, faithful obedience emphasis upon to His holy Law, dynamic growth in grace, and Christ Our Lord has delegated simplicity, faithful use of the means of grace. All holiness the powers of government to duly- of heart and life must be grounded in sober appointed officers in the Church, modesty, and steadfast love for God. and we are mandated to obey Sometimes, however, our emphasis on ex- them faithfully. All Christians are stewardship, ternal regulation and dutiful performance has to be in practical submission to ignored the principles of authentic piety. Our one another and to these desig- separation from appeals to holy conduct, which are both legiti- nated officials in the Church. The the world, and mate and necessary, have often been based edifying and equipping of God’s more in the impulse to preserve the taboos of people and the administration of conscientious our religious subculture than in allegiance to church discipline are committed the Word of God and its demands. The heart especially to faithful pastors who lifestyle. of all Christian obligation is loving God with all are called not as “lords over God’s our heart, soul, and mind, and then “to fear heritage,” but as examples and as Him and keep His commandments.” Not only shepherds of His flock. are we called to do what is right but also to We therefore deplore the spirit of autono- love what is right, for this reason abstaining my and even anarchy which so often has from all that He condemns and embracing all marked our movement. Too often in our con- that He enjoins. We will never stop the “his- gregations and denominational life we have torical drift” among us merely by enforcing exhibited rebellion against the authority struc- traditional legislation but by vigorous and re- tures which God Himself has established, newed insistence upon authentic relationship boasting our independence of them, and with God and passionate pursuit of Him. refusing to submit to their godly discipline. This Gladly we reaffirm our traditional emphasis has been evidenced by continuing divisions upon simplicity, modesty, stewardship, separa- among us, often over matters unconnected tion from the world, and conscientious with allegiance to Scriptural truth. As the heirs

OCTOBER 2011 05 of classical Christianity, we have not so learned We call therefore for the renewal of our Christ. “Obey them that have the rule over corporate worship, based in the mandates of you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for Scripture and in the tradition of evangelical your souls as they that must give account, that orthodoxy, centered in the faithful ministry of they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for Word and Sacrament. Our preaching must be that is unprofitable to you” (Heb. 13:17). based in conscientious interpretation and We call therefore for renewed exposi- earnest proclamation of the Holy Scriptures, tion of the Scriptural qualifications for lead- and our administration of the sacred ordi- ership within the Church, corporate exhor- nances of baptism and the Lord’s Supper must tation to beware the deceitfulness of sin, be meaningful and faithful. We lament our and biblical obedience and submission to neglect of baptism and the Lord’s Table, for this those whom God has made under-shep- is to slight the Saviour who so kindly has estab- herds over us. God grants no Christian au- lished them to fortify our faith, calm our fears, tonomy from mutual submission and ac- and nourish us with grace. countability within the Body of Christ. We must therefore repent of our oft refusals to VIII. A CALL TO exercise the Scriptural means of restorative CONSISTENT DISCIPLESHIP discipline within the Church and commit ourselves to loving one another Christ commissioned His followers to even as our Father loves us in make disciples through Trinitarian baptism and chastening and scourging every instruction in all His commands. The early We have largely son whom He receives. church responded to Our Lord’s call to aggres- sive evangelism by taking the gospel to every abandoned VII. A CALL TO corner of their world. Yet they realized that CORPORATE WORSHIP the central thrust of the Great Commission our Methodist was discipleship accomplished through bap- Corporate worship is the exalted tism and teaching, so they largely invested system of glory and central pulse of every their time and energy in systematically teach- spiritual Christian congregation. At its core, ing new converts the whole counsel of God worship is the adoration of God, and equipping them for ministry. This same formation Holy, Blessed, and Undivided Trinity, emphasis elevated Wesleyan Methodism to and by apostolic mandate, it is to be towering stature in the kingdom of God, while and forgotten conducted with decency and order. without it Whitefieldian Methodism proved “a In the public worship of the Church, rope of sand.” We confess that, despite our how to fulfill as the old Methodist communion heritage, evangelism has languished among us. our Lord’s service reminds us, we join “angels We have largely abandoned our Methodist and archangels and all the company system of spiritual formation and forgotten command to of heaven [to] laud and magnify” how to fulfill our Lord’s command to make the Lord of hosts, joining in their disciples. We have sought revival without make disciples. eternal hymn, “Holy, Holy, Holy, preparing to preserve its fruits. We have em- Lord God of hosts, Heaven and phasized spectacular conversions and ne- earth are full of Thy glory.” glected the biblical necessity of disciplined As Wesleyans we have a two- growth in faith, virtue, knowledge, self-con- fold heritage in Christian worship. On the trol, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kind- one hand is the warmth and earnestness of ness, and love. We further acknowledge that fervent and joyful devotion. On the other is where evangelism is taking place among us, a the sober restraint of form, dignity, and tradi- systematic plan for incorporating new converts tion. Both are essential. Too often, however, into the visible Body of Christ through baptism we have emphasized the first and neglected and instruction is largely non-existent. the second. We need not neglect the subjec- We call, therefore, not merely for a reaf- tive emphasis so characteristic of our ser- firmation of the importance of evangelism vices, but we must ground our sacrifices of and discipleship, but for a commitment to praise and thanksgiving in the great objective equip our laity for the work of the ministry, acts and truths of God Himself. for the establishment of solidly Wesleyan cur-

GOD’S REVIVALIST and BIBLE ADVOCATE 06 ricula for systematic discipleship, and for the Kingdom against all that militates against it. implementation of these training methods in This commitment will also lead us to minister all our churches. This will necessitate a con- compassionately in His name to the impris- certed effort on the part of our leaders to oned, the needy, and the oppressed. reclaim the skills of discipleship, reinstitute regular systems of accountability and affirma- X. A CALL TO RESURGENT HOPE tion, and to resume obedience to Scripture’s mandate to teach faithful men who shall be All Christian life is centered in the re- able to teach others also. We shall begin again splendent hope that we have through Christ’s to bear much fruit when our disciples them- victory accomplished in His incarnation, selves become disciple-makers. atoning death, and resurrection. The sure and certain anchor of the soul, this hope has given IX. A CALL TO gladness and assurance to faithful believers all CHRISTIAN SOCIAL WITNESS throughout the centuries of the Church’s struggle with the forces of entrenched evil. It Our Lord’s call to take up the cross and assures us of present victory in our personal follow Him is a call to Christian social wit- lives and corporate ministry, but it also points ness, for everywhere the Master went He to the final triumph when every knee shall ministered to both the spiritual and physical bow and every tongue shall con- needs of people. We have been created in fess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Christ Jesus for good works (Eph. 2:10), in- Never have we so needed a re- deed, saving faith works through love (Gal. newed sense of the hope that we Never have we 5:6), first in meeting the needs of fellow be- have in Him. We know the power lievers, and second in doing good to all men. and devastation of sin, and we ac- so needed a Love for Our Lord and passion for holiness knowledge the increasing degrada- should impel us to minister compassionately tion of our culture. We are renewed sense to the sick, the suffering, and the forsaken, Wesleyans, however; and as our and to resist courageously societal structures theologians have said, the keynote of hope. The that oppose divine purpose and degrade of our theology is not the “pes- keynote of our human dignity. “Whenever the Christian lives simism of [fallen] nature” but the an authentic life, the world around is perme- “optimism of grace.” We therefore theology is not ated with God’s presence…,” as Dr. Leon call our movement to the joyous Hynson has written. “[He] raises the quality expectation of victory which so mo- the “pessimism of life, makes social justice, equity, and in- tivated our spiritual forebears to tegrity work. The pure in heart not only ‘see’ claim the American frontier for of [fallen] God, but become the letters through which Jesus Christ. We cannot cower be- nature” but the society sees Him.” fore the darkness, paralyzed by Unfortunately, we have sometimes with- “the encircling gloom” which con- “optimism of drawn from that society into the cloistered tinually we must confront. “But walls of a narrow and narcissistic piety. But where sin abounded, grace did grace.” this was not the pattern of our spiritual fore- much more abound.” The same bears who raised Christian consciousness in power which brought the Roman all the forums of public life and who filled Empire to bow before the cross, re- their land with works of grace and mercy. newed the Church in the days of the Protestant Their stated mission, “to reform the conti- Reformation, and reshaped the culture in the nent and spread scriptural holiness over Wesleyan Revival is also ours as we encounter these lands,” asserted God’s sanctifying pur- the moral depravity and sneering secularism of pose to transform lives and in consequence our times. Let us be joyfully faithful, then, cre- to transform culture. atively relevant, and utterly confident that We call therefore for renewed commit- Jesus’ victory is our own. With gladness we do ment to Christian social witness. This means the work which He has given us, even as we that we will lovingly and forcefully proclaim await the consummation when all the earth Christ’s power to liberate from sin, both public shall echo with the song of conquest, “Alleluia! and private, asserting the claims of His The Lord God Omnipotent reigns!”

OCTOBER 2011 07 Enrollment statistics for to each of our readers who act as the college department at good PR representatives for the great God’s Bible School and things that are happening at GBS! College for Fall 2011 are as follows: 321 (268.67 FTE) MARC SANKEY SPEAKS AT which is a 3.5% increase FALL REVIVAL from 310 in Fall 2010. In fact, five consecutive years of Rev. Marc Sankey, Bedford, growth have yielded an 18% Indiana, missionary, pastor, and increase in enrollment. Our GBS alumnus, was evangelist at fall highest enrollment was 338 in revival services at GBS, August 1983. This year is the second high- 22–26. His messages were thought- CAMPUS ENROLLMENTS est enrollment with 244 CONTINUE TO GROW on-campus students and by Dr. Ken Farmer, Vice President for 77 ADEP students. Academic Affairs The goal we had set for Aldersgate Christian One of our long-term goals has Academy was 150. While been to stabilize college enroll- we did not reach that ment above 300. After an increase goal, ACA enrollment this last year to 310, we set an enroll- year is 145, up from last ment goal of 315 for the college. year’s 140. This 3.6% With the economic environment increase is on top of last being as difficult as it is, we knew year’s increase of 14.4%. we had our work cut out for us. Thanks to all the Therefore, we are pleased to campus family who tire- report that we have again exceed- lessly worked to make Rev. Marc Sankey ed our goal. Praise the Lord! this happen. Also, thanks

On these pages, we feature items about GBS alumni, significant To Robert (AA General events scheduled throughout the “Revivalist family,” and brief news Studies ’98) and Deanna notes from across the holiness movement. (Paulus) (BA Music Ed ’98) Kennedy, Goshen, Ohio, BIRTHS twin sons, Riley Konal and Ruarc Kaven Kennedy, To Rev. Jesse A. and Elvira D. Aaron, born at home, November 30, 2010. The twins join Dayton, Kentucky, a daughter, Rachel older siblings Kiana, 8, Duston, 7, and Sean, 5. Renee Aaron, born July 10, 2011. Jesse is a Robert is the owner of Legacy Custom Builders and senior ministerial student at GBS and pastor Deanna is a full-time, stay-at-home mom and home- of the Dayton Church of the Nazarene. school teacher. The Kennedy family attends the To Michael (GBS HS ’94) and Beth Christian Nation Church in Goshen. (Lavy) Dickinson (GBS HS ’96), a son To Joshua (GBS ’06-08) and Rhoda Jeremiah Wesley Dickinson, born (Gilley) White (GBS ’06-07), Salem, Dayton, Ohio, May 6, 2011. Jeremiah Illinois, a son Sebastian Kenneth White, joins two siblings, Isaiah, 5, and Sophia, 2. born July 14, 2011. Joshua is a diesel Paternal grandparents are former GBS staff mechanic. The Whites attend the members Bud and Sherry Dickinson. Wesleyan Bible Holiness Church in Salem.

GOD’S REVIVALIST and BIBLE ADVOCATE 08 ful, anointed, and eloquent, urging students to hear God’s voice and give themselves in full consecration to His service, and warning them against spiritual idolatry and the bondage of sin. Response was posi- tive and immediate, and the chapel was filled with the sounds of prayer, testimony, and exhorta- tion. A gracious sense of the Spirit’s presence pervaded the campus, bringing renewal and obedience to His voice.

RIBBON-CUTTING FOR NEW STUDENT COMMONS

Renee Langworthy, president of the student Music Service Organization, cut the ribbon offi- cially opening GBS’s new Student Administration Building’s former coffee shop selling Starbucks coffee, Commons, Friday morning, bookstore area, is a place for “stu- snacks, and drinks; booths for eating September 2. She did this repre- dents and faculty to interact,” as and socializing; several computers senting the Division of Music, President Michael Avery explained. for general use; and the campus which had raised more money for Constructed by the campus Resource Room, offering needed this project than any other acade- maintenance staff under its director, supplies for classroom use. Outside mic division. The Student Mr. Tom Butcher, the Commons is a newly-constructed arbor shelter- Commons, located in the Standley contains student mailboxes; a small ing a patio area. ¬

DEATHS were held in Milbrook, Alabama, with the Rev. Stephen Vernon, his nephew, and Rev. Ken Stodola officiating. Henry Clinton Milam, 90, died June 24, 2011, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Born and raised in Elmore NOTICES County, he was most likely a farmer from the start. He graduated from the GBS high The 10th Annual Indianapolis Christian Writers school in 1940, where he met Harriet, Conference will be held November 4–5, 2011. With who was to become the love of his life and over 3 million books sold, Christy Award winner Angela his wife for 70 years. Mr. Milam served in Hunt headlines this year’s conference with featured the United States Army during World War guest Todd Burpo, author of the New York Times #1 II as well as doing a stint with the United Parcel Service. non-fiction book, Heaven is for Real. For more informa- But some of his most wonderful work was in his gar- tion on skill-building workshops, consultations, and reg- den, for he prided himself on the amazing quality of istration, visit www.IndyChristianWritersConf.com. the vegetables that he produced and sold. Ben Durr Books, formerly situated on the GBS cam- Preceded in death by his son Stephen, he is survived pus, offers new and used religious books online. by his wife; four children, Carole Jean, Linda, David, and Featured are a wide variety of classical Methodist and Darrell; eleven grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchil- holiness movement authors. Check out the website at dren; and one great-great grandchild. Funeral services www.bendurrbooks.com or call (513) 731-9383.

OCTOBER 2011 09 NEWS FROM THE HILLTOP continued

NEW STAFF AND FACULTY FOR join the college faculty on a full- Room and the FALL 2011 time basis in the fall of 2013 to adjoining, newly- teach literature and writing. Cheryl opened Student God’s Bible School and has recently married Chris Commons. She is College announces the employ- Comparativo (GBS BA ’08). completing her BA ment of the following new staff Melody degree at GBS and and faculty, or changes in assign- Creech (GBS HS is the wife of ments for previous employees: ’90) will work in Registrar Chris Elisabeth Avery (GBS HS ’02; BA the kitchen as Lambeth. They have three children: ’06) will serve as a college adjunct assistant to the Lauren, 11; Michael, 9; and Caleb, 5. professor in elemen- cook. She and her Sherilyn Marshall (GBS BA tary education. She husband Brian ’76), will serve as receptionist and has an MEd degree have three sons: phone desk opera- from Liberty Isaac, 18; Samuel tor. The wife of University and has 13; and Josh, 9. Aldersgate Christian taught for three Anthony Academy principal years at Aldersgate Frederick will work Bill Marshall, she Christian Academy in the kitchen as has worked for 34 and two years at Liberty Bible assistant to the years in Christian Academy. She and her husband cook. He is the son education, and has Jonathan (GBS HS ’03; two AA’s in of David and three children: Matt, Kirk, and Theology and Business ’05) have a Charlotte Frederick, both of whom Ashley; and four grandchildren. newborn daughter, Aviah Christine. are employees of GBS. Shane Muir (GBS BA ’09), will Scott Blackmon will teach social Carol Gardner (GBS BA ’92) be Director of Marketing Media, science and other miscellaneous will teach the combined third and working in the courses in the fourth grades at graphic design middle school at Aldersgate Christian office. Most recent- Aldersgate Christian Academy. She ly he has worked in Academy. He holds taught for 13 years Pine View Homes, a BA degree from at Liberty Bible Evart, Michigan. Hobe Sound Bible Academy before Angie Sackett College (’05) and assuming a position will be an office an MA in Church at Judson Care assistant for History from Carolina Evangelical Center, where for six years she Aldersgate Christian Divinity School. He has served as an served in various capacities. Academy, replacing assistant pastor and is the founder of Stephanie Hoffpauir will serve Nila Dilbert, who Carolina Youth Camp, which he as Administrative Assistant to has resigned after continues to lead. Scott and his wife Richard Miles, Vice serving ably as both Ashley (daughter of GBS staff President for a part-time worker members Bill and Sherilyn Marshall) Student Affairs, and and as a volunteer have a young son, Marshall Cole. Ken Farmer, Vice for the past 11 years. Angie, who Cheryl (Martin) Comparativo President for most recently worked as the main (GBS BA ’11, salutatorian) will direct Academic Affairs. A GBS receptionist, the college Student GBS student since will also serve as a Learning Center, fall 2010, she teacher’s aide. which is now replaces Jodi Marshall whom she Adam Sickler restructured as the previously assisted. Stephanie, who (GBS ’11 AA) is Academic Resource holds an AA degree from Hobe now a member of Center, incorporat- Sound Bible College, will continue the GBS mainte- ing the Writing Lab. studies to complete a BA in Church nance staff, having She also has begun and Family Ministry. worked previously in this department graduate work at the University of Nancy Lambeth will be as a student worker. Adam was Cincinnati, and we expect her to Coordinator of the college Resource recently married to Kyndra Tichenor.

GOD’S REVIVALIST and BIBLE ADVOCATE 10 Kyndra Student Affairs Richard Miles. As a Matthew Potter; Dr. J.D. Young (Tichenor) Sickler student Ryan held a work-study Memorial Scholarship, Josh Cravens; (GBS ’11 AA) is position as Ministerial Division Oral E. and Lucille Cox Memorial now Housekeeping Assistant. He will also be pursuing a Scholarship, Stephen Nelson; Paul Coordinator and Master of Arts in Counseling at E. Drummond Scholarship, Jesse Facilities Adminis- Cincinnati Christian University. Aaron; Chester C. Elliott and Leliah trative Assistant. E. Roberts Scholarship, Dwight She has recently SCHOLARSHIPS PRESENTED AT Crosley; Elmer C. Farmer Pastoral been married to CONVOCATION SERVICES Scholarship, Thomas Ridenour; Carl Adam Sickler. Victor and Bessie Hedstrom and Kendra Smith In Sunday morning convocation Alvin and Gertrude Hedstrom (GBS ’11 BA) will services, August 21, President Memorial Scholarship, Christopher serve as office man- Michael Avery issued a stirring call Baird; Myrtle Jessup Ministerial ager for the Division for renewed commitment to our Scholarship, Jesse Aaron; Marvin of Music, replacing common heritage in early Jewell Ministerial Scholarship, Jesse Lisa Robison. Methodism. The services, which Aaron; Frank Little, Jr. Ministerial Kendra has had previous experience marked the opening of the fall 2011 Scholarship, Jesse Aaron; Isaac T. working part-time in this office. academic term, were held in the Monce Memorial Scholarship, Monica Williams will be a Adcock Memorial Chapel. In the Blaine Hartman; South Bend Union college adjunct teacher in elemen- evening, Campus Pastor Mark Chapel Scholarship, Chris Adams tary education Cravens preached on the subject of and Blaine Hartman; Hazel while she contin- prayer, linking GBS to its long and (Trouten) Scheid Memorial ues to pursue her continuing tradition of faithfulness Scholarship, Gale Brown; Vernon graduate degree at in this area of Christian devotion. Scholarship, Andrew Blankenship; Cincinnati Faith Avery, Director of Dr. Edward Palm Scholarship, James Christian Institutional Advancement, present- Riley; Rev. Francis A. Taylor University. For the ed 59 scholarships totaling $52,305 Scholarship, Blaine Hartman. last three years to 77 students. Listed according to Monica has taught in Aldersgate the appropriate academic division, Intercultural Studies and World Christian Academy. these scholarships are as follows: Missions Scholarships. Norma J. Cheryl Watters will serve as Sturgeon Memorial Scholarship, Executive Assistant to the President, Ministerial and Bible and Laura Boyd; Dr. Leslie Wilcox as well as directing Theology Scholarships. Ervin and Scholarship, Derek Jones; Leonard the Personnel Jane Bohall Scholarship, Josh and Janet Sankey Scholarship, Derek Office. Cheryl pre- Williams; Norma J. Sturgeon Jones; Ada Mae Conrad Memorial viously worked at Memorial Scholarship, Rachel Scholarship, Ben Smith, Anna Lenawee Christian Langworthy, Jonathan Pepple, and Rasmussen, Cortney Prior, and School, Adrian, Michigan, where she was administra- tive assistant to the principal for approximately twenty years. She and her late husband Steven have three sons: Jason, Andrew, and Ryan; as well as six grandchildren. Ryan Watters (GBS ’11 BA) will be an assistant to the Men’s Residence Director, as well as an assis- tant to the Vice President for Fall 2011 GBS Scholarship Recipients

OCTOBER 2011 11 NEWS FROM THE HILLTOP continued

Janeane Yaryan; John O. (Mickey) Knox; Gertrude Taylor Memorial Everett Hale, “I am only one, but I and Annie E. McGuire Memorial Scholarship, Rebecca Haynes; am still one; I cannot do everything, Scholarship, Amanda Meadows; C. Meredith and Florence Vance but still I can do something; and Helen Mooshian Scholarship, Nicole Scholarship, John Sutton. because I cannot do everything, I Brown; Ethel Belle Baughey will not refuse to do the something Scholarship, Caleb Clark; Stanley General Studies Scholarships. Che that I can do.” The first recipient of and Evelyn Kendall Christian School Brown Scholarship for African this scholarship is Jasmine Norris. Scholarship, Amy Weddle. Americans, Jasmine Norris; Crawford (2) The King Family Family Scholarship, Jaelea Brewer, Scholarship was established by Rev. Music Division Scholarships. Janae Waggoner, and Jordan Marlon King to promote develop- General GBS Scholarship, Shelley Waggoner; Rev. and Mrs. William ment of Christian leaders at GBS Carey; Grossman, Reiss, and Woods Jackson Scholarship, Sharlenae and in loving memory of his wife, Memorial Scholarship, Shelley Dotson; Oscar Johnson Memorial Renotta, who died in January 2011. Carey; The King Family Scholarship, Scholarship, David Hawn; David and As a senior stu- Renee Langworthy; Robertson Clare Martin Scholarship, Heidi dent in the GBS Scholarship, Ashley Muir; Ward Rebman; Messerschmidt Memorial high school in Family Legacy Memorial Scholarship, Scholarship, Brittany Brander and 1981, he heard Leah Rodriguez; Evelyn Ware Regina Thawley; Jim and Dorothy President Scholarship, Esther Hough; Mr. and Miller Memorial Scholarship, Katrina Bence Miller Mrs. K.W. Wong Scholarship, Mark Behm; Louise Rhyne Memorial say in a sermon, “If you go here you Richmond and Alanna Smith; Allan Scholarship, Kent Stetler, Sharree will be required to look like a Clarence Strong Scholarship, David Pouzar, and Katie Newman; H.E. Christian and act like a Christian, so Olson; Mary Ann Bell Scholarship, Schmul, Sr. Scholarship, Christianna you might as well be one.” Kimberlee Russell; John Case, Jr. Baker; Norma J. Sturgeon Memorial As he remembers, this “made Scholarship, Michael Olson; Scholarship, Sharonna Mitchell and perfect sense” to Marlon; he re- Nathaniel Joslin Memorial Mark Hunter; Gertrude Taylor sponded to God’s call to forgiveness Scholarship, Ashlee Elliott; McNeill Memorial Scholarship, Charity Frazier; and redemption, and continued his Memorial Scholarship, Jonathan Connie A. Tiede Memorial Scholarship, studies on the Hilltop, graduating McConkey and Dana Paxton; N. Chad Bladen; Meredith and Florence with the BRE degree in 1987. He re- Keith and Sharon Waggoner Vance Scholarship. Mike Vollmer and calls those years as “extremely influ- Scholarship, Mark Richmond; Merle Melissa Morgan; Minnie Ruth ential,” for the “concepts of sin, sal- D. Wolf Scholarship, Thomas Olson; Wallbrown Memorial Scholarship, vation, sanctification, and a clear Vaughn Somers Memorial Carolyn Conrad and Alex Fourman. understanding of our proper rela- Scholarship, Dana Paxton. tionship with God were set firmly in THREE NEW SCHOLARSHIPS place.” The first recipient of this Teacher Education Scholarships. ESTABLISHED AT GBS scholarship is Renee Langworthy. Marjorie Wolfe Bryner Memorial (3) The N. Keith and Sharon Scholarship, Yoshikazu Koike; The Included in the above listing are Waggoner Scholarship was estab- Aubrey Elam Indoor Camp three newly-established scholarships lished for a student intending to Scholarship, Maria Stetler; Dr. R.G. at God’s Bible School and College: pursue music ministry by Keith and Flexon Memorial Scholarship, (1) The Che Brown Scholarship Sharon Waggoner, who attended Yoshikazu Koike; Peter J. and Patricia for African Americans has been God’s Bible School and College Moran Scholarship, Brenda Palacios; established by Ms. Eleanor Nunley. from 1972–1974. For over 30 H.E. Schmul, Sr. Scholarship, RaeLyn As a public school teacher, she has years, they have been in music Wood; Ronald M. Sherrill Memorial witnessed first-hand the difficult cir- ministry at camps, revivals and con- Scholarship, Sarah Sproles; Connie A. cumstances that students face in certs; served as ministers of music Tiede Memorial Scholarship, Tiffany America’s inner-cities. Especially at Frankfort Bible Holiness Church, Neal; Minnie Ruth Wallbrown touched by Frankfort, Indi- Memorial Scholarship, Elias Abraham, one student, ana, and San- Jen Bange, and Maria Meadows; Che Brown, ford Wesleyan Joyce Ann Marshall Memorial she found Church, San- Scholarship, Brenda Palacios; David inspiration in ford, North and Clare Martin Scholarship, Talia the words of Carolina;

GOD’S REVIVALIST and BIBLE ADVOCATE 12 recorded three studio productions; and written sev- eral songs. Their son and daughter-in-law, Keith and Lori, have both graduated from the music division, and their other children, Robert and Sharilyn, have TO THE EDITOR also attended GBS. Keith is a division manager with Caterpillar in Illinois, and he and Sharon continue in music ministry in their local church. The first recipi- Letters should be addressed to the Editorial Office, 1810 Young ent of this scholarship is Mark Richmond. Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202, or emailed to [email protected]. Letters reprinted here do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editor of God’s Revivalist nor those of the administration of God’s Bible School. Names and locations of writers will be withheld at their specific request or at the discretion of the editor. We reserve the right to edit and condense.

GOD SAVE OUR HOMES!

Not many realize how much kids depend on a successful marriage [ref. September 2011 issue of God’s Revivalist]. Because I work at a school which has over 700 children, I see the pain they carry from broken homes. It affects their whole life, including their education. I pray, "God save our homes!" BOB HUNT Email

PRAYER, FASTING, AND GOLF

The article in the May 2011 God’s Revivalist concerning the Apocalypse [Editor’s View] was interesting. We cannot put our heads in the sand concerning the day [in which] we live. Yes, GOD is able to turn things around, and He hears prayer; but where are there people in the CHURCH [who] will pray and fast to that extent? Then I thought it was interesting when I turned to the back cover of the Revivalist and saw an announcement of the 3rd Annual Hilltop Golf Tournament in October. I am sure this would not have been on the agenda of the Wesleys or of those fasting and praying for a godless nation. DELORES SPRAGUE Boise, Idaho

We thank Delores for her letter and would like to point out that the annual GBS Homecoming activities are planned and sponsored by the Alumni Association of God’s Bible School. Comments or questions concerning this or other alumni activities should be directed to Alumni President Rev. Jack Hooker ([email protected]) or members of the Alumni Council. The underlying question implied by our reader is one which deserves attention: To what extent can a serious Christian be involved in leisure sports and activities? We are passing this question along to Philip Brown to be answered in an upcoming “Dear Phil” article.

OCTOBER 2011 13 favor of what is popular. My best effort to analyze these three com- ponents of clothing trends in America has led me to the follow- ing conclusions: 1. Direction: Prior to the 1880s, our American culture was monolithically gender-distinct in its clothing. The trend of the last 120 years has been unisex and seems now to be “any sex—your choice.” These are trends Christians should reject. God desires us to be visibly gender-distinct in our clothing. GENDER-DISTINCT CLOTHING, Part 2 2. Message: The original promoters of pants worn by women “Does the Bible really require us to wear gender-distinct clothing?” were unapologetically opposed to any form of men’s clothing being off- n my last column, I noted (1) that pants and observers say this cultural limits to women. Contemporary Igender-distinctness in clothing is a practice means? What values and cultural observers (social critics, part of the much larger biblical the- perspectives are promoted or fashion designers, feminist ology of the image of God in man, demoted by this practice?” ideologues) say that pants on women (2) that God regards failure to be Paul enjoins us to consider how still communicate masculinity and gender-distinct in clothing as an our "message" is perceived by three power, despite its near universal abomination (Deut. 22:5b), and (3) groups of observers: the Jew, the adoption by women. This surprises that God did not spell out precisely Greek, and the church of God (1 me. I wonder if ads like Dockers’s how men and women are to express Cor. 10:32). The “Jew” was the “Men Wear the Pants” reflect a gender-distinctness in clothing. unsaved monotheist with deeply desire for unambiguous masculinity, Before addressing how to apply held conservative values. The even in clothing. the principle of Deut. 22:5 to our “Greek” was the unsaved pagan 3. Theology: A rejection of culture, let me explain that what I polytheist, who nonetheless had God’s plan for gender distinctions mean by “culture” is the values, per- ideas and values about what is is one error which helped spawn spectives, and practices shared by a appropriate and what isn’t. The our culture’s rejection of gender- group of people. Culture is multi- church of God included all true distinct clothing as a value. layered. We belong to national, believers, whether weak or strong When a culture retains gender- regional, local, family, church, and, in their faith. Paul commands, distinctness in clothing as a value, perhaps, corporate cultures. Culture “Don’t give offense” to any of and replaces one form of gender- is multi-faceted. It includes our these groups of people, even in distinct clothing for another, then a entertainment, education, work, matters as mundane as eating and Christian is free to adopt the new methods of relating to others, modes drinking (1 Cor. 10:31). Rather, we style without compromising the of self-presentation, and so on. are to seek their profit—salvation biblical value of gender-distinct There are at least three aspects for the unsaved; edification for the clothing. Our culture has not of any cultural practice we must saved (1 Cor. 10:33). retained gender-distinctness in evaluate when seeking to view it The “theological character” of a clothing as a value and has not biblically: its direction, message, cultural practice is determined by sought to replace the old norm and theological character. asking questions such as, “How (pants-dress) with a new norm that The “direction” of a cultural does this practice reflect love for honors that value. practice involves its history, its pre- God and for others? To what degree sent practice, and its future direction. are its direction and message in har- Blessings, The “message” of a cultural mony with Scripture?” Philip practice involves answers to ques- Without careful attention to all tions like: “Why do the creators and three of these components, cultur- Dr. A. Philip Brown II is a member of the participants say they engage in this al analysis is easily skewed either faculty in the Division of Ministerial cultural practice? What do partici- in favor of what is traditional or in Education at God’s Bible School and College.

GOD’S REVIVALIST and BIBLE ADVOCATE 14 “An extraordinary tuba player and a good leader.” That is the GBS or- chestra director David Hartkopf’s im- pression of FERNANDO ESCOBAR, adding, “other students respect him COLUMNIST TIES BRITISH The mob, it was said, “vowed to as a musician and a godly example.” LAWLESSNESS TO UPPER CLASS conduct their morning prayers on From Chihuahua City, Mexico, CORRUPTION the church plot after razing it.” Fernando had been playing the tuba for only a few years when at British columnist Peter Oborne JOHN STOTT REMEMBERED AT age 17 he began playing with the has charged that the devastating riots LONDON FUNERAL SERVICES symphony orchestra of the Univer- that recently raged in London and sity of Chihuahua…but God had other cities in his homeland reflect Dr. John Stott, one of Western bigger plans for his life. the moral decay in the top levels of Christianity’s most beloved spokes- In 2010, Fernando chose to study society as well as in the lower ones. men, was remembered with grati- at GBSC where “every class has a The “entire British political class tude at funeral services held at All Christian focus and is based on bibli- came together…to denounce the ri- Souls Church, Langham Place, cal principles.” He wanted a path that oters,” he comments. Yet Oborne London, England, August 8. Friends would not only develop his profes- believes that “there was something and admirers thronged the church sional career, but nurture his Christian very phony and hypocritical about all and heard uplifting hymns and stir- walk. After his first year, Fernando got the shock and outrage” from the rul- ring tributes to the evangelical an even greater offer—an invitation ing class, adding that “criminality in leader’s “cross-centered, Christ- to play for the State Philharmonic. our streets cannot be dissociated glorifying life, lived in obedience of Not wanting to use his talents only on from the moral disintegration in the love.” Stott, who died July 27 at himself, he declined the position to highest ranks of modern British soci- the age of 90, was pastor of All continue his studies at GBSC. ety. The last two decades have seen Souls Church 1950–1970, wrote Fernando has already used his a terrifying decline in standards 51 books on the Christian faith, GBSC education to pour his heart for among the British governing elite. It and was credited by Time maga- music into starting a children’s orches- has been acceptable for our politi- zine as one of the 100 most influ- tra and teaching music lessons at his cians to lie and to cheat…. An al- ential people in the world. church. He has overcome high finan- most universal culture of selfishness cial obstacles to attend GBSC, difficul- and greed has grown up.” PRESBYTERIANS TO ALLOW ties he would not face had he taken HOMOSEXUAL CLERGY the professional jobs offered. MUSLIM MOB BURNS CHRISTIAN CHURCH IN EGYPT “The two million member If you would like to support Fernando or Presbyterian Church (USA) has be- a student like him, you may send a gift to: According to Church Around come the latest mainline Protestant the World, “a mob of nearly 4,000 denomination to implode on sexual Student Fund Muslims attacked Coptic homes in standards,” according to Mark Tooley God’s Bible School and College a village 20 miles from Cairo writing for the National Review 1810 Young Street [Egypt] and burned the Church of Online. “On May 10, Presbyterians Cincinnati, OH 45202 St. Mina and St. George.” The re- in Minneapolis became the needed port asserts that the mob refused to 87th local presbytery to vote for or give online anytime at permit fire fighters from entering deleting the denomination’s expecta- www.gbsgift.com the village. When the army belat- tions for ministers and elders of ‘fi- edly sent in three tanks, “Muslim delity within the covenant of mar- elders sent them away, saying that riage between a man and a woman, everything was ‘in order now.’” or chastity and singleness.’” OCTOBER 2011 15 Ê

In this space we use writers both past and present to discuss various aspects of Christian holiness.

SOMEBODY CHANGED THE SIGN

by Leslie Wilcox

ave you observed the importance of signs? One rattlesnake a harmless garter snake, it does not change can hardly go anywhere or do anything without the poison of the viper; it only changes the thinking of Hbeing in some way dependent on signs. We use people until they are no longer afraid of the poison; they them to mark highways and identify streets. They are have only substituted a new label. used to warn of dangers of various sorts. They show lo- Along with this sign-changing trend there is also the cations of all sorts of places like filling stations, restau- growing emphasis in the thinking of people that guilt rants, motels, and stores. twists and deforms one’s personality. These two tenden- Are you aware that God also has used signs to indicate cies are related to each other and both have the same both His will and His warnings. They are found most of all effect, which is to nullify God’s warnings about sin and in the Book; but they are also in God’s providential deal- its consequences. We must remember that changing ings with us, in the voice of the church, in the moral sense names does not change the real character of anything. It of the human race, and sometimes just in a still, small voice. only muddles our thinking. We live in an age when there has been a shift in the But it has a more disastrous effect than that. It signs or sometimes a total removal of them. The moral removes the sense of guilt. This is a tragedy far worse climate of our day resembles what would happen if than a mixed-up vocabulary. If we remove guilt there someone would tamper with the traffic signs we use. remains no possibility of repentance, for we think we People would be going the wrong direction, stopping at have nothing for which to repent. And if we remove the the wrong places, and demonstrating a grand mix-up in possibility of repentance, we close fast the door of eter- every way. This is like the moral and spiritual situation nity, for it is still true, as Jesus stated, “Except ye repent, condemned so strongly by the prophet Isaiah: “Woe ye shall all likewise perish.” unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put Someone might be inclined to give a glib retort, darkness for light, and light for darkness, that put bitter “What difference can the meaning of a few words for sweet, and sweet for bitter” (Isaiah 5:20). make?” But we need to consider the relationship In recent years there seems to be a concerted between our speech and our thought. It is true that our attempt to change the vocabulary of the English lan- words reveal our thinking. But it is equally true that our guage in such a way as to cover up sin and make it words mold our thinking, and then our thoughts bear sound acceptable. It seems as if the printed page and fruit in actions. Mixed words such as we have consid- the silver screen vie with each other to make the sordid ered will change our attitudes toward issues that are and licentious look attractive and harmless. What used eternal in their outcome. If the signs have been to be known as drunkenness is now a disease. What was changed, we will end up at the wrong destination. once sodomy came to be called homosexuality and now has become merely an “alternate lifestyle.” What was once adultery is now just merely “having an affair.” Rev. Dr. Leslie Wilcox was a well-known theologian, church admin- But we need to remember that changing a name istrator, and GBS faculty member. This article, condensed by the edi- does not change the character of something. If I call a tor, is reprinted from the April 6, 1989, issue of God’s Revivalist.

GOD’S REVIVALIST and BIBLE ADVOCATE 16 Ê

III. The SPECIFIC MODE of Christian Water Baptism “COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE The early church recognized and practiced three modes: immersion, pour- IN PREACHING” ing, and sprinkling. Of these three, the preferred mode was immersion. The imagery evoked by Paul when he speaks of being “buried” with Christ in bap- tism into His death (Rom. 6:4; Col. 2:12), and his statement that all the peo- A FORGOTTEN ple of Israel were “baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea” (1 Cor. 10:2), a picture of a mystic cloud covering the people, strongly lends itself to COMMANDMENT the idea of immersion. The earliest non-biblical account of the mode of baptizing occurs in the Teaching of the Twelve Apostles (The Didache), dating possibly as early as 125- by Dr. Allan P. Brown, Chair 150 AD. It says, GBS Division of “Now concerning Baptism, thus baptize ye: having first uttered all these Ministerial Education things, baptize in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Scripture: Matthew 28:16-20 Ghost, in living water. But if thou hast not living water, baptize in other water; and if thou canst not in cold, then in warm. But if thou hast nei- INTRODUCTION ther, pour water upon the head thrice in the name of the Father, and Son, and Holy Ghost” (International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, I, 388). J. Wesley Adcock once asked, “What is God going to do with all these holiness people who have not obeyed the scriptural command to be baptized?” This seems to say that immersion was the recommended practice, but that Recently, while speaking at a large interdenominational group of the mode of pouring (affusion) was also valid and could be used if necessary. Christians, I asked how many of them had been saved over two years but had Sprinkling (aspersion) seems to have been reserved for the sick as well as for not yet been baptized. The great number of raised hands makes me wonder if infirm persons too weak to submit to immersion or pouring. Sprinkling did not pastors have forgotten that baptizing converts in the Triune name of God is a gain wide use in the church until the 13th century (ISBE, I, 389-90). requirement of the Great Commission. I’m afraid that Rob Staples’ lament over the “near-silence from the Wesleyan/holiness pulpit regarding baptism” is valid CONCLUSION (Outward Sign and Inward Grace, 119). I once met a person who expressed the opinion that baptism can be “a As the Hebrew writer indicates, the doctrine of baptism forms a founda- slippery slope to hell.” Of course this can be true. If a person trusts in anything tional principle of the Christian faith—one which ought to be in place in every besides the finished work of Jesus for his salvation, the object of his trust believer’s life so that he may go on “unto perfection” (Heb. 6:1-2). Paul places becomes “a slippery slope to hell.” However, the fear of a formal, lifeless, sacra- it among the cardinal elements of the gospel around which all believers should mental liturgy should not cause people to adopt a casual attitude toward bap- unite. “There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of tism. Granted, to have the husk of Christianity without the heart-changing ker- your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all…” nel is to substitute liturgical rites for eternal realities, and Paul warns us about (Eph. 4:4-6). The early church understood the phrase, “one baptism” to be a people who have a form of godliness, but deny the power thereof (2 Tim. 3:5). reference to Christian water baptism. In his sermon, “The Means of Grace.” John Wesley gives practical ways to Have you been baptized? Perhaps you were not previously aware of the differentiate between the proper use and possible abuse of what he calls, “the Biblical requirement; however, now that you have learned of this truth, you means of grace.” Obedience to any Biblical practice, if trusted in as the grounds should walk in its light. It may be that many years have of one’s salvation, can become a “slippery slope to hell.” This includes such passed since you first trusted Christ as your Savior. You may fundamental Christian practices as prayer, Bible reading, receiving the Lord’s even be an unbaptized Christian leader. Your obedience to Supper and water baptism. Trust in any external practice as the meritorious this command of our Lord will provide the proper example ground of salvation, Wesley asserts, is to God an abomination and “a stink in for others to follow. His nostrils” (Works, I, 381). To those who are making disciples, are you baptizing On the other hand, water baptism was central to the early church. While them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, as reading the first volume of Thomas Oden’s systematic theology, The Living God, Christ commanded? —sermon by DR. ALLAN P. BROWN I discovered that “the earliest summaries of Christian teaching were lectures to prepare people for baptism” (p. 13). These included the early creedal confes- sions, such as the Apostle’s Creed. 4 1 ©2011 iStockphoto

I. The SCRIPTURAL MANDATE for Christian Water Baptism II. The SYMBOLIC MEANING of Christian Water Baptism (Mat. 28:19, 20; see also Mark 16:15, 16) (1 Cor. 12:13; Rom. 6:3-5; Col. 2:11-12; Tit. 3:5; 1 Pet. 3:20, 21)

After His death and resurrection, Jesus made a special appointment to meet Paul tells us that baptism symbolizes a believer’s identity and union with His disciples in Galilee. There He told them, “All power is given unto me in heav- Christ. In baptism the believer declares his renunciation of his old way of living en and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name which was dominated by the world, the flesh (Col. 2:11-12), and the devil of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all (Eph. 2:1-3). He renounces all previous faiths and declares his faith in Christ things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even alone as the sufficient sacrifice for his sin. Baptism is symbolic not only of sep- unto the end of the world” (Mat. 28:19, 20). This climactic paragraph in Matthew’s aration from the old life, but also separation to inclusion within the body of Gospel proclaims our Lord’s mandate for Christian water baptism. Since Jesus’ com- Christ (1 Cor. 12:13). Romans 6 teaches us that when we were baptized in mand is universal in its scope, this commission remains a requirement today. The Christ we died with Christ to sin; were buried with Christ to sin; were raised Lord of the church requires all her members, if physically possible, to experience with Christ to walk in newness of life, a life free from bondage to sin; and were water baptism. “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved” (Mk. 16:16). given hope of future resurrection (Rom. 6:3-5). Thus going beneath the bap- There is a definite sequence to the Great Commission. First, God’s children tismal waters visibly symbolizes the fact that we have forever turned our back are to go make disciples of all nations. Second, Jesus tells His followers to bap- on our life of sin and have embraced Christ and His cross. Rising from the bap- tize those whom they disciple in the Triune name of God. Third, the new dis- tismal waters symbolizes our spiritual resurrection to newness of life in Christ. ciples are to be taught to obey all of Christ’s teachings. Surely this is what Peter meant when he compared Noah’s flood to Christian In Acts, Luke tells us that the early church baptized all Christian converts in baptism (1 Pet. 3:20, 21). The water of baptism, like the water of the Flood, is water. Peter required it of the three thousand converts on the Day of Pentecost (Acts symbolic of the end of the old life. “The old life must die, just as the old world 2:38, 41). Philip required it of his Samaritan converts (Acts 8:12, 16), and later bap- had to die, if a new life and a new world are to be born” (Jansen, The Meaning tized an Ethiopian official that he led to the Lord in the desert (Act 8:36-38). Upon of Baptism, 67, as quoted by Staples, 126). his conversion, Paul was baptized (Acts 9:18; 22:16). Peter baptized Cornelius and Christian water baptism also speaks of our entrance into the church and into the his household (Acts 10:47, 48). During his missionary travels, Paul baptized Lydia family of God. The church fathers spoke of a two-fold gate into the church: faith, (Acts 16:14, 15), the Philippian jailer and household (Acts 16:33), Crispus and the invisible gate, and water baptism, the visible gate. “Water baptism produced Gaius at Corinth (Acts 18:8), and the Ephesian believers (Acts 19:3-6). outer authentication of one’s faith in Christ, even as the coming of the Holy Spirit Luke’s frequent description of baptism as being “in the name of Jesus” is provided inner authentication. A Spirit-less Christian or an unbaptized Christian commonly misunderstood. It is not a contradiction of Jesus’ command to use the were equally incongruous in New Testament times” (Richard Howard, Newness of Trinitarian formula. When John the Baptist baptized people, they were baptized Life, 122, italics his). The Hebrew writer classifies water baptism as one of the essen- in John’s name. In other words, they became disciples of John the Baptist. In the tial foundational “principles of the doctrine of Christ” (Heb. 6:1-2). same way, to be baptized “in Jesus’ name” refers to becoming Christ’s disciple, Repentance of sin and faith in Christ must precede water baptism. Baptism not to a pronouncement of “in Jesus’ name” during baptism. Thus, new converts is to be administered only after one has demonstrated true repentance. This were baptized in Jesus’ name in the sense that they were declaring their alle- was true of John the Baptist’s ministry (Lk. 3:8), as well as Paul’s ministry. In giance and loyalty to Him. In the actual process of water baptism, however, the fact, Paul deals a death-blow to the idea that conversion occurs in the act of early church pronounced the Trinitarian formula as the believers were baptized. water baptism (baptismal regeneration) when he says to the Corinthian Commenting on the fact that our Lord commanded His followers to bap- church, “I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius.... tize new converts “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel...” (1 Cor. 1:14, Ghost,” and to teach them “to observe all things whatsoever I have command- 17). If salvation occurred during the rite of water baptism, Paul would be say- ed you,” Oden says, ing, “I’m glad I led none of you to the Lord, but Crispus and Gaius.” Further, he would be saying, “For Christ sent me not to convert people, but to preach “In this way, Jesus forever linked two crucial actions: baptizing and teach- the gospel.” Instead, Paul makes a clear-cut differentiation between water ing. In subsequent periods of Christian history they have remained inti- baptism and the gospel itself. mately interwoven. Implicitly included in the instructions for baptism is Let no one misunderstand. Water baptism is not the means whereby one the charge to teach its significance. This is why the Christian study of God secures forgiveness of sins. Christ forgave the thief on the cross and joined him in has been so often organized into these three divisions, for Christian teach- paradise that very day even though the thief was not baptized (Lk. 23:43). Yet, for ing is baptismal teaching, and Christian baptism has required some clari- those who are able, submission to water baptism is the obedient response of a fication of itself as faith in God the Father, Son, and Spirit. Christian the- believer to the command of his Savior. It serves as a visible sign of regeneration ology came into being to explain Christian baptism” (p. 12). (Tit. 3:5) as well as of the believer’s submission to the Lordship of Christ. 2 3 here will come a day when our earthly possessions are given to others. The process that provides for an orderly Tdistribution of these items is referred to as estate planning. It is estimated that only twenty percent of the readers of this article will have taken the time to have planned for their estate’s final passage. The remaining readers have left their heirs in the position of having to face many difficult and often expensive choices that could have been checkmated by an effective estate plan. So, what is it that the eighty percent need to do? Address three questions: Who Gets What? The answers are the estate planning foundation which serves as the basis for the entire plan. One needs to decide how the stocks, mutual funds, bonds, cash, life insurance, annuities, retirement plans, real estate, as well as other personal properties will be divided. Failure to give directives leaves open the possibility of squabbles and hard feel- ings as heirs seek to engineer the dividing process. Most readers of this article can remember at least one instance where families were at odds due to a disagreement over inherited items—all because the owner did not address the first question in the estate planning process. And, for those who have minor children or disabled adult dependents, the decision as to who should take responsibility for their futures is too important a matter to leave to others. Now is the time to decide “Who gets what?” When Should They Get It? All now? Some later? Outright or left in custodianship, trusts, or some other vehicle for future distribution? The out- right possession of inherited wealth for some could be more of a burden than a blessing. Trusts are instruments used to make certain that the heirs receive the assets at a time when they will be in a position to properly appreciate and appropriate such. For those whose heirs are minor children or disabled adults, the use of trusts in addressing the question of “When should they get it?” takes on even greater significance. What’s the Price of Transfer? Here we look at the potential costs of fees and taxes associated with the estate distribution process. What are they and how will such be paid? Under current federal law, taxable estates for individuals exceeding $5,000,000 espe- cially need to review the possible impact of taxes on their estates using professional counsel as their guide in deal- ing with the sometimes complex aspects of tax law. Numerous options and opportunities exist for those who plan ahead to make certain that taxes as well as fees are kept at a minimum.

It is an overt act of caring to take the time, while you still have time, to address these three questions. You need not try to do it alone as there are professionals in the legal, accounting, banking, and life insurance fields who have expertise in making the estate planning process a positive experience for you today and for your heirs tomorrow. Just do it now.

©2011 iStockphoto ©2011 Please call Faith Avery at (513) 763-6565 or email [email protected] for a copy of our Better Estate Planning brochure.

Office of Advancement / God’s Bible School and College / 1810 Young Street / Cincinnati, OH 45202

OCTOBER 2011 19 Mandy, and Nate. When the dream born on the mission field is youngest went off to kindergarten, I finding expression today on the began thinking about my dream front lines of human need. My again. Why not take some courses responsibilities also involve a spe- right here at God’s Bible School and cialty as a certified Sexual Assault College where my husband served Nursing Examiner (SANE) and a in public relations? part-time instructor in the SANE GBS played a key role in pivot- Program. In this patient-advocate ing me academically as an adult role, I have the unique opportunity learner to being ready to conquer to testify in legal proceedings and to the demanding nursing school cur- provide forensic evidence to assist riculum that followed. Of all my in the pursuit of justice. compiled by Rev. Jack Hooker, President, capable GBS instructors, I have I love my work as a health care National Alumni Association of GBS heartfelt regard in particular for the provider and thrive on the team investment made in me by Prof. spirit in the ER. There is never a dull A LIFE DEDICATED TO Donald Hubbard in statistics class. moment. Opportunities abound to HELPING OTHERS After taking that first subject, I personalize real love and concern, never looked back. I “crammed” a even for fleeting moments, at the Linda Davison shares how God led two-year Associate’s Degree center of so much pain. I her to a life of nursing and used of Applied Science in am convinced that wherev- GBS in that pursuit Nursing into five years while er one works, he or she is working as a home health ultimately in service for I was an eight-year-old mis- aide, acting as a busy owner God. I have not forced my sionary girl, sitting at my home- of a cleaning business, and witness into my work. school desk in High Rock, Grand still trying to be a good wife Simply living out biblical Bahama. As I struggled with a and mother. I took one pre- ethics and attitudes opens math assignment, I noticed a requisite at a time while the doors for my faith to shine. large, tattered book with a thick clock ticked away on a three -year When humbled with the honor of a cover on the top shelf of the mis- waiting list at Cincinnati State hospital-wide exceptional nurse sion library—a medical-surgical Technical College School of Nursing. award, I knew in my heart that it nursing volume. When I read the As I look back on my school had come about indirectly from an opening story about Clara Barton, days, there are two special sources intentional focus on my relationship the pioneer nurse and humanitari- of encouragement that stand out to with Christ. an, I knew I wanted to be a nurse. me. Before every test, I would look God’s Bible School and College My resolve to read the whole at the crayon-scribbled note given believes that you cannot live what book, however, quickly vanished to me by my kindergartner, Nate, you don’t know; you can’t give what after making several trips to the and which I had taped to the front you don’t have, and you cannot love big Webster’s dictionary in the of my notebook: “I can do all things without serving. These guiding truths corner of the room while trying to through Christ….” School had never are not only foundational to GBS read the first few pages. been easy for me. I worked hard for but to my life work as well. I felt that same stirring again my grades! So I needed to stay while watching the needy Carib reminded of God’s promise. Please Note: In the fall of 2010, Linda Indians (a people after whom the I also continually drew on the Davison, wife of GBS Public Relations Caribbean Sea was named) crowd advice of one of my Cincinnati State Director Don Davison, received the Daisy around the mission van on the nursing instructors, Suzanne Zellner, Award for Extraordinary Nurses, having been island of Dominica after Sunday ser- “You don’t have to know every- nominated by University Hospital nurse vices. They needed the bandages, thing, but you do need to know administrators, peers, physicians, patients, salve, aspirin, and Tylenol that my where to find the answer.” Her and families. She was also nominated as one parents, Richard and Mary Raines, counsel not only helped me in of 24 finalists who was honored at the annu- iStockphoto and Pictures X Brand ©2011 missionaries living among these school, but also still serves me well al Business Courier Health Care Heroes people, generously shared from today as I share it with nursing stu- Award Dinner at the Hyatt Regency, their personal medicine chest. I dents whom I mentor. Cincinnati, March 14, 2011. That event rec- remember wanting to know more In1998, I began working at ognized finalists for their achievements rang- so that I could help people. University Hospital in orthopedics ing from research and inventions, manage- I married Don Davison and had and trauma. I transferred to the ment skills, innovative programs for employ- four beautiful children, Eric, Amber, Emergency Department where the ees, and service to the poor and uninsured.

GOD’S REVIVALIST and BIBLE ADVOCATE 20 “ ptimistic grace is the reason we exist.” God knew about a homeless man born in poverty who never owned Obefore He created us that we would turn to evil and anything but the clothes on His back. In spite of His hum- rebel against Him. Yet He reaches out to us in goodness, ble beginnings, royal blood flowed in His veins. But He mercy, and forgiveness. This is all because of His grace, chose poverty over power and love over hate, showing us which is the heartbeat of heaven, the hope of humanity, the face of God. Some of the last words He uttered on the and the center of His love. To describe grace, I offer this cross were “Father, forgive them; they do not know what acronym—God’s Reason All Creation Exists. they are doing” (Luke 23:34 NIV). Just as through one man, GOD’S. God is sovereign. He can do whatever He Adam, sin entered the world and separated us from God, wants, but He has chosen to make our responsibility part so also through one man, Jesus Christ, grace is extended to of the equation that He offers for our salvation. The mes- the world. When God looks at us, He does so through the sage that He gives us is the story of His love, which we must grace provided in the sacrifice of Jesus. accept, not because we are coerced, but as an deliberate CREATION. We are not just physical beings but also act of our will. Grace is meaningless without someone to spiritual ones—never-dying souls in need of Christ’s respond to it, and the word love becomes meaningless also redemptive work. There is a depravity to our humanity if we are forced into it— overcome by His irresistible force. that cannot be overcome by our positive thinking or There will always be a certain tension between God’s sov- strenuous efforts. But God’s grace is given to us in Jesus ereignty and man’s responsibility, but they can and do who came to us in human form that He might perfectly coexist in a mutually exclusive and perfect partnership. restore all creation to Himself. REASON. One of the greatest gifts that God gives us EXISTS. We exist in God’s time and space. Each of is the ability to reason. But this ability to reason lays upon us must decide whether to enter into a personal rela- us a responsibility to respond to His offered grace. tionship with our holy God. Look carefully at your own Because we have understanding, we know what is wrong life and ask yourself, “What does the ideal person look or right about a situation, and we are responsible for the like to the God of the Universe?” Ask, “What does God choices that we make. It is inconceivable that God who expect of me to do in response to His grace?” Ask, “Am knows the future would think it reasonable arbitrarily to I being obedient to what I know He wants me to do condemn numbers of people to eternal separation from now?” Remember that God has an optimistic expecta- Himself. Everywhere in Scripture He emphasizes His tion for each of us—that He believes in our future! patient understanding and longsuffering with His people. CONCLUSION. How important is our message of We can trust the reasonable God who so graciously optimistic grace? What if our message of hope and holi- extends His love to us. ness should be silenced forever? It is more important now But how are you responding to that love? What is the than ever to recognize the importance of clearly commu- passion at the center of your life? What would you say nicating our message of optimism to the world around us. governs what you do and how you do it ? It is possible to God has placed us on this earth for this time and this day. gauge to some degree a person’s future by how he or she The church is God’s plan for building His kingdom. This is now putting meaning and reason into life. is our generation, our opportunity for our finest hours. ©2011 Brand X Pictures and iStockphoto and Pictures X Brand ©2011 ALL. God chooses to love all of us, and in response to Like a coal from the altars of heaven, may our hearts burn that love, we choose happiness instead of heartache, hope once again with a passion for holiness and for sharing our instead of despair, and life instead of death. The heart of great message of optimistic grace. the story of optimistic grace is found in Jesus the Christ. Jesus was born in humble circumstances and died as a con- This article, condensed by the editor, is from a chapel sermon victed criminal. The stories of Jesus tell us presented at GBS, January 28, 2011.

OCTOBER 2011 21 Since 1900, God’s Bible School and College has trained and equipped thousands of students like you to take Christ’s message of truth around the world. With the support of men and women like you, we will continue to prepare new generations of young people who are passionate about sharing God’s Word.

CONSIDER HOW YOU CAN HELP CARRY ON THE GBS LEGACY THROUGH SCHOLARSHIPS AND OTHER UNIQUE GIVING OPPORTUNITIES.

ENDOW A SCHOLARSHIP. Enable students to train at GBS while you honor or remember a loved one. PARTICIPATE IN YOUR EMPLOYER’S MATCHING GIFT PROGRAM. Double the impact of your gift towards education. DONATE A GIFT OF STOCK. Our staff is here to make the transfer process simple as you support tomorrow’s Christian leaders. PURCHASE A CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITY. Partner with us to give a gift of cash or securities and receive income for life in return. GIVE A ONE-TIME TRIBUTE GIFT. Remember friends and family by making a gift in honor or memory of your loved ones. MAKE IT MONTHLY. Make giving convenient with monthly automatic withdrawal as you support every student, in every study, every month. MISSIONS REPORTS ©2011 Jupiter Images Jupiter ©2011

Each month we publish brief “field reports” from missionaries around the world. Missionaries are invited to send us their newslet- ters and other information about their activities. GBS graduates are especially urged to respond, but we also wish to include others who by Sonja Vernon uphold our vision and our commitment.

COLOMBIA. “Thanks for praying for the trip into Peru. In OUR EYES ARE ON YOU four days we preached or spoke five times to congrega- tions. Pastor Luis and his family live in Peru and are trying “…For we are powerless before this great mul- to hold to a standard of holiness and careful living. They titude who are coming against us; nor do we are starting a church in the Lima area and in a poor town know what to do, but our eyes are on You.” an hour away. They are poor and live very humbly. As God —2 Chron. 20:12 NASB wills, we want to serve them with spiritual support, materials to work with, friendship, and help as needed.” here are many things in this life that I will —Phillip and Heather Dickinson, Dickinson Update Tnever understand, and, to be honest, suffering The Dickinsons have established a new website at is one of them. I know the right answers, but when dickinsonjourney.blogspot.com for ministry news, one is staring raw pain in the face, those answers prayer requests, etc. aren’t always extremely comforting. My spirit rages against this fallen world, against the brokenness HAITI. “Our VBS…was a great success. Each day we that shatters bodies and spirits. This isn’t how averaged around 220 children. We had over 30 chil- things are supposed to be! dren come forward…to give their hearts to Jesus. Our And then the words from 2 Chronicles are whis- lessons were about how to be saved, how to live holy pered to my spirit, “but our eyes are on You.” My and pure…and how to be faithful to the end. We’ve just focus shifts, and I see the broken body of our completed the annual mission convention. The mes- Messiah as He takes our fallenness upon Himself. I sages focused on living a holy, sanctified life before God. hear, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Many of our young people were at the altar seeking me?” from His bleeding lips. I feel the broken heart God during the convention. —Hess Family Update of a Father who watches His Son suffer. I recall the words of that same God to His people through the RUSSIA. “Vyborg Christian Center is affiliated with prophet Isaiah, “As one whom his mother comforts, Hope International Missions…[and under its leadership] so I will comfort you…” (Is. 66:13). And I realize that we have been bringing the Good News of Hope to He knows, that He enters into our pain, and that Russian people. Every Sunday night men come from the truly He is Emmanuel—God with us. House of Hope rehabilitation center for a worship ser- As the Body of Christ in this world, our job is to vice and a time of fellowship afterward. [Many] young enter in as well—to perform our sacred privilege of men who not long ago were drug addicts…have now intercession; to cry out without ceasing to the God found salvation in Christ. Every Friday night we fix din- who promises comfort, grace, and ultimate healing; ner for our weekly youth meeting with one to two and to trust the heart of a God who will one day dozen active young people.” —Richard and Judy Grout, wipe away every tear and make all the wrongs right Rejoice in Him (newsletter) at last. Let us fix our eyes on Him today!

Sonja Vernon is Dean of Women at God’s Bible School and College.

OCTOBER 2011 23 The Early Church’s Understanding of Sanctification and Its Contemporary Implications Event Location: DR. CHRIS BOUNDS, plenary speaker Higher Ground Conference & Retreat Center West Harrison, Indiana OCTOBER 25–27 Tuesday evening through Thursday noon

ADDITIONAL SESSIONS:

1 Corinthians 11:2-16, History, Interpretation, Application

The Aldersgate Forum is open to members and registered guests only.

Membership and Registration Information: http://s.gbs.edu/aldersgateforum