Truth Magazine

By Greg Gwin

While attending the recent Nashville Meeting, many of us were continually amazed by statements made by our institutional brethren. The views they expressed and the positions they defended were simply incredible. The meeting served as a shocking demonstration of the true differences that exist between us. For years we have said that these brethren lack respect for Bible authority. It can now be said that such an explanation is a considerable understatement. It is obvious at this point that these brethren not only lack respect for Bible authority, but in many cases there is an obvious lack of basic comprehension of the whole subject of Bible authority. We were even treated to attacks against the text and canon of the Scriptures. Others will, no doubt, have much to say and write about these important matters. But, I have something else in mind.

During the meeting it was not difficult to see the lines of division between the two opposing factions. The rift is deep and wide – and apparently growing. Even a casual observer can detect these clear differences. But, it has not always been so clear.

In the early years of this controversy the issues were not so easily defined. The first steps in this digression were subtle and calculated. Our brethren were not so blatant in their statements; not so bold in their attacks; not so obvious in their errors. Many brethren, in fact, most brethren could not see the dangers associated with the course that these innovators were following. Sadly, many were led into sin.

Yet, there were those who could see where this all would lead. They were careful students of the word, and capable in wielding the sword of the Spirit. They could grasp the biblical principles at stake, and they could foresee the errors and their consequences. And so, they spoke, and wrote, and warned – even when doing so brought reproach and persecution and alienation upon themselves. At this point they would be well justified in proclaiming a loud, “We told you so!”

Some of the names of these defenders of the faith are well known. Some of the famous battlefields are well remembered. Far more of the names and places have all but faded from memory. But we are indebted to them all. Without their keen perception of these matters we might all have been swept away by the tide of these compounding errors. There are many in the Lord’s church today, even in conservative congregations, that were not present to observe when these battles were being fought. Yet, in a very significant way, our present stand for truth is founded on the work those men did years ago. It is not too late to say, “Thank you!”

Guardian of Truth XXXIII: 2, p. 36
January 19, 1989

By Phil Robertson

It certainly is realistic to see a young person lost in the immediate “pleasure” of the world. Pleasure hunters seek refuge upon the young, offering relentless promises. The life of a young person is so valuable and precious that any hindrance to those discrepancies of moral values can scar for life.

The home offers foundations in life that can either stand or fall in today’s society. When a person relieves himself from the confines of parental wings, the perilous world is open to him or her. This world does not offer the love, protection, and confidence that can be found at home or in God’s word. It does offer a “get rich quick” and “find pleasure any way you can” society. The gate is open for anyone desolate to fall asunder.

There was a young girl full of life and vigor, eager to please and a pleasure to accompany. She was part of an elite class of teenagers who would defend tooth and nail what they believed. It was not uncommon for her to even discipline, if not embarrass, other kids at church for their worldly actions. Her beauty was as brilliant as the sun and her attitude as consistent as time. However, she fell victim to a pleasure seeking society.

In my association with her, I was able to witness her change. The separation began when a need developed within her to be accepted by friends at school. Due to her quick growth, her size inhibited her in finding many dates, so any guy with a little interest was a joy.

The fall was a gradual process not evident to the casual bystander. A decline in family life soon developed and good grades were just a juvenile intuition. The pleasures of the world were gradually being allowed to slip ,into her pattern of living. She was no longer a discipline committee to the others but a pilgrim of joy on a new frontier. Her life soon lost the contentment it once had and now sought self-gratification.

Who was to blame for these actions? The mother for not providing an escape, pleasure seekers in whom she was seeking refuge, or herself for yielding to temptation?

I soon lost a trusted friend and faithful companion. No longer was there a bond of peace and friendship. Lies and dishonesty prevailed in her relationship with me. The example I had once admired was gone and lost to the very thing it once objected.

The sadness that followed was very discouraging. Questions were left unanswered and all I wanted was a reason why she had changed. These things are not supposed to happen to close friends.

She soon fell as far as one could imagine. Jobs were kept no longer than a couple of days. Money was spent on foreign substances and never saved. Pleasure was the only thing sought; yet it never came in enough quantities. Rumors about her life were spread among gossipers. However, she was no longer a credible source for truth herself. She hurt terribly those that wanted to still believe in her.

We never realize the power of the world until it affects someone close to home; how it can grind and play at even the strongest. Solomon spoke wisely of the world thousands of years ago by saying, “Allis vanity.” He had tried it all and it never fulfilled his needs, even though he had an unimaginable abundance of possessions.

This analysis of the world is so hard to conceive by all, but especially the young. Discontentment is the start of the problem and desire is the strength. The hardest hit are the parents and friends. It is a helpless feeling providing a lack of reasons and answers. Confiding in God and his grace is the only hope for the loved ones who are watching this fall. Should not confidence in God prevail anyhow?

Today she is supposedly on the road to recovery. Twice she managed the courage to force her way to the front of the congregation and confess wrong. Now, after remaining faithful for a short time, the world has overcome her again and true repentance did not withstand. Her mother has more than once experienced the horror of not knowing the whereabouts of her daughter. Now she allows her to stay at home and come and go as she pleases. This is rudely taken advantage of and not even an ounce of consideration is taken for her mother’s kindness.

The world can be a vicious enemy, taking our closest friends in the Lord. Like a boat without oars, their lives float aimlessly, helpless in the waters of life. Often friends and family blame themselves for the loss. Agonizing memories of lost opportunities to prompt the victim to change are always on the minds of those who care. Only one person can really be blamed for the fall and that is the victim.

In the story of the prodigal son this same situation is evident. The lost wander, not realizing his state while the saved hurt for his soul. The father is the one in agony in this parable. The son does not realize the pain he has caused his father by not repenting. If the son had realized this pain, perhaps he would have repented sooner.

I can hope and pray for my lost friend. She does not realize the pain she is causing or the aimless life she is living. Will she repent or stay the same? I don’t know. All I know is that I lost a friend to the world.

Guardian of Truth XXXIII: 1, p. 22
January 5, 1989

By Harold Byers

We should not be shocked today when we speak of the need for leadership among God’s people. God has always selected or had someone selected to lead his people. The very nature of man demands that someone be selected to direct our pathway. This applies both in spiritual and civil matters.

When God determined to bring ‘Israel out of Egypt, he selected Moses to lead his people across Jordan into the Land of Canaan. In Joshua 1:2, Moses sought the wisdom of elderly men as to how to handle certain matters.

In these individuals, God knew the background and qualifications and it was not necessary for God to state their qualifications. These were men who trusted in Jehovah God as the giver and sustainer of life.

In the past Judges and Kings were pointed to lead Israel in religious and civil matters. The prophets spoke of those who were leaders and being good, doing that which was right in God’s sight or those who did evil. We understand today that the leadership in civil and spiritual matters has changed. When we speak of God’s leadership today in the spiritual realm, we are speaking of the eldership in the local church.

There is a need for men to lead God’s people in the local church. When one considers the qualifications of elders as set forth by Paul in 1 Timothy and Titus, he learns that an elder must be a man married and in control of his house. Much has been stated about these qualifications, but leadership lies within the mature man’s ability to lead, based upon his knowledge of Jesus. Maybe one could possess physical qualifications and not be able to express his ability to lead others. The desire to assume responsibility and serve as an elder is a qualification of necessary leadership, but unless an individual expresses it to others, it may go unnoticed. This is a humble qualification when viewed in light of being a shepherd of men’s souls on earth.

Men who possess leadership in the world are men who have been trained and who have developed to a degree of being able to carry out instructions. Why should we think of men in the eldership as being any different?

We must look at the divine wisdom of God in not establishing a worldwide organization through which all churches could be guided. The only functioning unit is the local church, made up of pastors, elders, bishops, overseers, or shepherds. By understanding the meaning and use of these designated terms, we should now direct our attention to an aspect of the work of those who serve local congregations. All the above terms describing elders imply leadership in feeding the flock (Eph. 4:11; Acts 20:17; 1 Pet. 5:2).

Let’s examine the use of the literal word “shepherd.” He is one who has counted his sheep and knows them by sight; leads them where it is safe; secures an area where there is food; watches to make sure that none go astray; and he can call them and lead them to better pasture. In using the word shepherd, men in New Testament times understood its meaning.

When viewing elders’ leadership, one sees that it requires wisdom based on knowledge. James said, “If a man lacks wisdom, let him ask of God.” Elders certainly are to have wisdom. Luke 21:15 says, “I will give you a mouth and wisdom.” A shepherd uses his knowledge of what is best for his flock, always having them in the center of his heart, and leads them toward better things. An elder’s leadership is in direct proportion to his understanding of God.

God’s order is for men to lead his children away from sin and toward God. Men in leadership should move carefully in their actions so as not to offend the Lord. Elders must listen to the Chief Shepherd, which is Christ. Spiritual leadership demands that one listen to the one who has authority and then carry out the instructions.

Those who serve in the leadership of the church are always looking for green pastures. Shepherds of a congregation should always be seeking better methods of feeding the members of the church to insure more spiritual growth. They must not deviate from the divine food, but they should have some vision to cross traditional methods of instruction when it is in the best interest of the local church.

There are two realms of authority that can be administered: (1) The making of laws; this belongs to God; and (2) The carrying out of those laws. Human judgment must be used in carrying out the laws of God.

Elders are responsible for carrying out the mission of the church and members are,commanded to submit and obey those who rule over them (Heb. 13:17; 1 Tim. 5:17). This being true, leadership is essential in order for someone to follow this requirement. In carrying out the mission of the church, elders are responsibile for a place to worship, teaching program, proper discipline,and taking care of those who are in need.

Elders exercise authority in ruling (1 Tim. 5:17; 1 Thess. 5:12) and the writer of Hebrews refers to them as rulers (Heb. 13:7-24). Can you imagine having a ruler in an earthly kingdom who does not possess the ability to lead his subjects.

The Lord used terms that all can understand and the abuse of power by elders who are charged with leadership should not cause us to go to the other extreme in elders rule.

Many times elders have not been a good example to those whom they rule over. In 1 Peter 5:3, Peter said elders must be an example to the flock. What we say and do has great value to those who have been asked to submit to overseers.

The word “overseer” in Acts 20:28 means to look over and to superintend. For one to be placed in this position suggests the work he is to do. Elders: (1) Lead the church to proper food (Acts 20:28). (2) They guard the church from false teachers (Acts 20:29-31). (3) They rule in all matters of judgment (Rom. 12:8; 1 Tim. 5:17), not as lords, but as an example to the church (1 Pet. 5:3). (4) They tend to the flock, taking the oversight (1 Pet. 5:2). This causes each member to develop in Christ. (5) They watch in behalf of souls (Heb. 13:17).

Men who desire to be elders in a local church should possess the qualifications set forth by Timothy. Elders are under the authority of Jesus, not to add to or subtract from what the Lord wishes to be done. Qualified,men have a great fear of violating God’s law, for there are I severe consd, quences of doing things without authority. Luke said in Acts 20:30 that men of the eldership would arise, teaching perverse things. Woe be unto that man, for not only will he lose his soul but all of those who follow him.

It is hard to imagine a qualified elder, who has volunw tarily agreed to this work, to state that there is no pattern for us to follow today. Elders in the church who assume authority not delegated to them are guility of sin, and it is no different in principle for a man to say, “I’m the Pope” for he claims to speak for God.

The New Testament church had a plurality of elders and in judgment matters there must be agreement to have an eldership decision. This protects the church from having a head elder. When decisions have been reached by qualified men, who are endeavoring to follow the law, then the church can be requested to follow their decision as they superintend the local church. The lack of Bible knowledge among men who have been selected to be elders seem to be a problem. Many times we only look at the external qualifications, such as being married, how many children he has, etc. I do not want to minimize these qualifications for they are necessary but, having serving as an elder with a number of elders, most all the problems I’ve experienced have arisen out of men not understanding what the Scriptures teach about elders in leadership. Secondly, those who knew the Scripture and from all noticeable points of qualification., seem to be qualified, just lack plain backbone to take charge for fear of being liked less. The negative form of leadership has pushed preachers into taking the lead simply because of neglect of the elders.

When elders can remove a preacher or teacher because he is not doing the work he has been assigned to do and place someone else in or take the pulpit themselves, explaining all the scriptural reasons for their action, then those elders are overseers in leadership.

Guardian of Truth XXXIII: 1, pp. 1, 23
January 5, 1989

By James W. Yates

This is a perplexing question that should be addressed by a number of congregations. It is a difficult one for many reasons. Major decisions must be considered and made – decisions that affect the lives of each of the members in different ways and by varying degrees. I have personally been involved when two churches faced this problem. One determined to ignore the inevitable, remained at its long-time location, and has continued to decline in numbers, contributions, abilities to preach the gospel to others, and in its spirituality. This mature congregation had more opportunities for doing the Lord’s work than most. They had the resources and abilities within to accomplish any reasonable work. The talent was there; but for selfish reasons on the part of a few, the advantages that were evident and present were lost – perhaps never to be regained.

The second congregation accepted the challenge of changing locations, and is now one of the more able congregations in this large metropolitan area. It is a church that God has blessed almost beyond belief and, certainly, greater than those who made the decision to move could anticipate at the time. It is this decision that we want to address in this article.

The congregation had been functioning since the early 1950s, having served a rapidly growing section of the city acceptably. It was a church that had been scripturally organized with elders, deacons, and full-time local preachers from its beginning. They grew rapidly in numbers and were evangelistically minded in supporting gospel preachers in many areas of the country as well as overseas. In the mid-1950s, they faced the important decision that all churches of that period faced in regard to institutionalism and respect for authority or lack thereof. They made the scriptural decision, and 100 of their members withdrew from the fellowship. They were wounded, but were not defeated. Growth continued, and their work in evangelism continue.. In the late 1950s and early 1960s, this church was additionally distressed, which was caused by hobbyism; however, the core became well-taught in the nature and work of the church with respect to obeying God’s will and by doing his work in his ways. In the mid-1960’s, membership increased again. Then, the inflation of that period began in earnest. This residential community began to change and change rapidly. Single-family residential properties became too expensive for the younger families and vacant land too expensive to develop with residential developments. Our younger members moved or were transferred by their employers; they were not replaced. The membership declined drastically in a short period, with the average age of its members increasing significantly. The Bible classes became difficult to plan. Some age brackets were few in number, so classes that were designed for a level of learning had to be eliminated and/or mixed with others which caused a wide range of age and maturity levels in a single class. The influx of immigrants in the area also caused significant changes. Heathen religions were introduced in the community for the first time. A number of special efforts were attempted to attract new members and converts. A second preacher was added and supported. Special classes and door-to-door contacts were attempted. Multifamily residential properties were worked extensively; however, the results were not acceptable or productive. It was time for the major decision. Do we stay and possibly decline to the point we eventually die; or do we relocate?

The manner in which we addressed the question is not necessarily the only way it can be successfully accomplished, but it is one way.

The four elders and two preachers spent several weeks confidentially discussing the matter in detail. We attempted to anticipate every conceivable problem, advantage and disadvantage of such a move. In the main, we were concerned about the “people problems.” We took a map of the area and located the physical complications that each member would have. We had some members who could not drive at night and others with similar problems, so plans had to be made to accommodate these individuals. We then broadened the consideration by bringing the deacons into the decision-making process.

At this point, we did not have a single negative opinion, which is probably slightly unusual. I would judge that in most churches you will not have complete agreement at this point. After all, there are now 15 men (plus their wives) actively involved. The problems were openly discussed and concluded one by one. Some of them were:

1. The membership; physical limitations themselves; distance to the proposed new location; the problems and suggested methods of curing them; how far is too far to travel?

2. The physical makeup of the proposed new neighborhood; developments that existed and their nature; most likely future development of vacant land.

3. The disposal of the existing building (a major consideration) and a realistic value of it.

4. Preliminary physical needs of the new location, including the size of the site and the building and a,rough estimate of its cost.

5. The alternatives for those who might not want to move to the new location. There was another nearby congregation that had been weakened in much the same manner as we. It was a desirable place to worship, and our move would result in two stronger congregations rather than two weaker ones.

After the elders, deacons and preachers had given the matter confidential but thorough consideration, the idea was presented to the entire membership with special efforts being made to have as many of the members present as possible. This meeting was well-planned but open and fair, and the results of the investigations that had been made were detailed. We suggested a period of time for the membership to discuss the matter among themselves and to ask any questions of the leadership. At this point, we had a few negative responses – perhaps as many as five or six individuals. Some pursued the matter to the ultimate extreme of their influences which resulted in their gaining a small number to support their cause which resulted in some unpleasantness.

However, the decision was made to proceed and to expedite the move as soon as reasonably possible. We placed the existing properties on the real estate market and drew preliminary building plans, obtained a new site and made ready to move when the older plant was sold. Financing was arranged with a local bank; but to keep the burden of cost at manageable levels, we would not start construction until the older property sold. It required approximately 14 months to sell the old building.

During this period of consideration by the membership, one of the deacons and one of the preachers had a change of mind (prompted by other matters, but taking advantage of the pending move); they began to meet separately, causing a division. We learned we had some among us with festering concerns that no one knew of prior to the interest caused by the actions of these individuals.

It is unrealistic to assume 100 percent will agree on the matter, and those who oppose must be given every consideration. Their reasons must be heard and considered fairly. Then, after meaningful consideration of each member, a decision must be made. Don’t let a very small minority – at times totally unreasonable – depress a positive decision that will keep the Lord’s work moving forward. Provide adequate alternatives for those who do not wish to be a part of the new work, or perhaps cannot be a part.

The division was discouraging and caused many heartaches. Repentance has not to this day been forthcoming. Souls will be lost as a result. The remaining number totaled approximately 70 people. We determined to press on to the accomplishing of our goals. We obtained permission from a local school district to use one of their cafeterias until we could get the new building redesigned to accommodate the actual selected site, obtain final financing, and actually construct the new facilities. We were in the school building almost two years with actual construction time being nine months in duration.

Four years had been required from the time the thought of such a move was made until we occupied the new facility. Four years of hard work, many hours of heartache, problems surfacing that were totally unknown prior to the move, and having to meet in adequate but unfunctional facilities for a longer period than we originally estimated – yet, a period that resulted in the firming up of the remaining core group into a hard and more effective working unit. That core group moved into the new facilities in November 1982. The membership doubled in the first year and has continued to grow at a reasonable rate until this good day. We are at peace, happy and have now completed all construction, and some expansion. We are now “out of debt” and using our resources to support gospel preaching. That original core continues to work together well, and we have added some of the best and most able members. Our largest problem, at present, is in utilizing to a maximum effective degree all of the talent we have within the congregation.

Yes, we strongly recommend that churches who are located in changing communities which have resulted in declining locations to do as we did – move and do the will of the Lord. There will be a few of your members who will not want to move for every type reason including being committed to the brick and mortar, instead of the Lord. There are some who do not want to attend other nearby congregations which could serve them well and who needed their help and influence. It was impractical for a few due to distance and health, but the large majority of these wished us well. Those who did move have been blessed beyond measure. It is a tough decision, but one we recommend if the circumstances demand it. There is nothing sadder than seeing a former, live, working congregation becomc-an “old folks home keeping house for the Lord” when you have an opportunity to use your abilities and resources to a better service in his cause.

We believe the Lord will bless your efforts as he has promised, if you will set aside all selfishness and put him and his cause in their rightful place. He blessed us, blessed the work, and made us all realize that his promises are true. We need to believe them and become working servants. You can expect some unplanned and unknown problems; but we know you will be as happy as we are that we made the dccision to move. The Lord will bless you for keeping his work alive and productive.

A Resume In Making The Decision:

1. What is the realistic future of the existing location?

2. What is the realistic future of the existing neighborhood?

3. The location of each member in relation to:

a. The present building.

b. The proposed site.

4. The availability of other churches, if any, in the area that could be strengthened by the acceptance of some of your members who would rather transfer than move.

5. The resources available for the new plant/facilities.

6. The reasonable value of the older facilities and net amount anticipated from their sale and “when.

7. Where would you move and its advantages?

Know, You Will Have:

1. Members bound to brick and mortar, not the Lord’s cause (although they may not realize this). Those who move to be near the present building.

2. Members who do not want to make changes, any change.

3. Health problems; problems of some in getting to and from services.

4. Members who will use this period to bring up all types of problems not previously known. It is a period of unsettlement and may be longer than you originally thought.

The Results:

1. Will be positive beyond your expectations.

2. Will produce a solid core of enthusiastic members who will be as filled with zeal as when originally baptized.

3. You can expect a solid initial growth period which is exciting and zeal-producing.

4. Those that are active in the move and construction phases will be satisfied beyond anything you can imagine, which spills over in the whole church.

5. It is a period of joy, satisfaction, and rededicating oneself to being active in the Lord’s work.

6. If your decision is right and if the leadership does their homework, God will bless your efforts; and, by faith, the accomplishments will be beyond your most optimistic expectations. You cannot “out give” the Lord!

Guardian of Truth XXXIII: 1, pp. 16-18
January 5, 1989