Truth Magazine

By Lloyd Barker 

One of the most sobering and yet neglected passages in the Bible is found in Luke 16:19-31. Many claim it is a parable. By so doing they hope to escape some of the plain teaching contained therein. Ly naming Lazarus personally, Jesus does not seem to be giving a parable. If it is a parable, it still has the same meaning. Jesus always took a well-known truth to teach any of His lessons. He never discussed what could not happen in His parables.

There are many great truths taught here and several false doctrines refuted. The doctrine of universal salvation is shown to be wrong. The fact that one was saved and one was lost clearly shows that not all people will he saved. (Also see Matt. 7:13. 14, 21-23.)

The false theory of materialism is exposed. The rich man’s ability to remember, cry, talk, lift up his eyes, thirst and be tormented plainly teaches he existed consciously after this physical death. (See also 2 Cor. 12: 1-3; 1 Cor 2:11; Matt. 10:28; Eccl. 12:7.) The Bible teaches that man has a spirit as well as a body.

Those who teach that the lost will have a second chance to be saved are clearly in conflict with Jesus. If there would be a second chance for the rich man, could Abraham have been so cruel as to not even mention it? Such hope would have been much more comforting than the mere drop of water requested for the parched tongue. Why have the warnings of the Judgment to come if all will have a chance to repent then?

The kindred Catholic doctrine of Purgatory is fully destroyed by the “great gulf fixed.” The silence of the Scriptures concerning Purgatory should be enough for the thinking person to know it is a vain doctrine of men. Notice that the great gulf cannot be crossed either way, except by vision. This warns that man’s destiny is “fixed” and all the money and praying that all the earth could offer will not change it.

Many people are like the Jews. (I Cor 1:22.) They want a “sign” or a “direct operation” of God’s Spirit to move them or the ones they are trying to convert. The fact that God would not perform a miracle by sending Lazarus from the dead to warn the rich man’s five brothers shows that He will not perform a miracle in any sense to convert unbelievers of that day or today. The brothers lived while Moses’ law was still in force and could hear it. (Verse 29.) Abraham reveals a truth that all need to learn. If people will not believe God’s word, they will not believe God’s miracles. We do not need miracles to convert people today. The gospel is the Lord’s power to save men and they must hear it. (See Rom. 1:16; 10:13-17; Jas. 1: 18, 21; 1 Pet. 1:22-23.)

There are many people who thoughtlessly say, “If my loved ones are lost, I want to be with them” or “If I go to hell, I’ll have plenty of company.” The rich man’s company in hell did not relieve any of his terrible pain. He certainly did not want any of his loved ones to come to “this place of torment.” My loved ones who are in hell do not want me to come there.

There are several things in hell that are needed in the church. The rich man cried. Tears are not shed often enough by Christians for the cause of Christ. The lost man saw a great need to teach the lost on earth. He was very humble and prayed fervently. This man teaches how foolish it is to trust in riches and the comforts of this life and how awful it is to be lost forever. The church needs to learn these lessons this side of hell. No doubt the rich man would give all he ever possessed and much more to have the chance to be faithful to God and walk on earth as we do today. He would no doubt make a fine preacher. If we do not live close to God, one day in hell we will wish we had. This should cause us to forgive those who sin against us, go to our brethren and correct any wrongs which we have committed, and do all things that we can and should before death. Could it be possible that some in hell have a greater desire to see the lost on earth saved than some preachers or Christians?

The picture in this passage is not all sad. Lazarus was faithful and was “carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom” to rest in joy until Christ comes. The fact that the five brothers could hear Moses shows that all may be saved. Jesus died for all and all should be saved. There is no good reason why any must be lost. God should not be blamed for the punishment of the lost.

Read Luke 16:19-31 again carefully and slowly. Jesus teaches us many great lessons here that should never be forgotten and should be taught to all men as His warning from hell. Many other individuals in hell could have been discussed and permitted to teach us but the Lord knew that one is enough to cause the sincere to think properly. A book could not hold all of the messages that those in torment would love to declare.

Truth Magazine VI: 11, pp.11-12
August 1962

By O. C. Birdwell, Jr.

Most of the problems that exist in the religious world are with us as a result of people following after men. The practice is not new, nor confined to this century. Men in ages past have turned unto man for instruction and guidance even when God’s will was revealed and plain. One such individual was a young prophet (1 Kings 13) who came out of Judah unto Bethel and cried out against Jeroboam and the altar saying, “Behold, the altar shall be rent, and the ashes that are upon it shall be poured out.” Later, when Jeroboam invited the prophet unto his house to refresh himself, we learn that God had commanded his servant saying, “Eat no bread, nor drink water nor turn again by the same way that thou camest.” Since the young prophet related this to Jeroboam, we know that he clearly understood God’s command; and that the command was explicit. Is it possible to disobey a command so simple and plain? Yes, it was then, and it is now. Especially is this true if we depend upon and follow the false instructions and leadership of man, as did this young prophet. After he left Jeroboam, and old prophet approached him with the impressive story that an angel appeared to him with instructions that would change God’s previous commands. The young prophet believed the old man was speaking the truth (possibly because the man was old, claimed to be an old prophet, and seemed pious and truthful), went back to Bethel with him, ate and drank there, and died as a result of following man and not God.

In 1 Corinthians 11:1, the apostle Paul admonishes, “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” Again he says, “If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.” (Gal. 1:9.) The gospel Paul preached was the gospel of Christ, and Paul would have man accept and follow that gospel although the one preaching it might be a castaway and lost. If Paul’s wishes were heeded there would be no splits and divisions in religion, but all would be able to understand and obey the Bible alike because they would follow no man but Jesus, and defend no doctrine except the doctrine of Christ. But Paul’s instructions have not been heeded; therefore many doctrines are preached, many men are followed in religious matters, and God is displeased.

Having seen that God is displeased when men reject His commands, and that the New Testament forbids our following after man, let us consider some men who have been followed and the resulting conditions.

The German Reformation of the sixteenth century was largely due to the work of one man–Martin Luther. Others of lesser repute played a tireless role, and much was done prior to Luther’s time that laid the groundwork for him and greatly aided his efforts. Yet, very little visible progress was made until ninety-five propositions for discussion were placed by Luther on the door of the church building in Wittenburg. All who oppose the dominance and false teaching of the Roman Catholic Church should appreciate Luther’s work. Indeed he was a great and noble character. But does this mean that Luther ought to be followed in religion? In rebellion against Catholic totalitarian power, many did not go back to the New Testament and follow Christ, but they concluded that Luther was such a great man and had done so much for them that they would follow him instead. Of course, in following Luther they thought they were following Christ; but apparently they did not take enough time thoroughly to examine the scriptures to see if such was the case. Even Luther, in formulating his belief, did not go directly to the scriptures, but he depended on Augustine (354-430 A.D.), an uninspired man, more than any other individual. This placed at least two men and their own private interpretations between followers of Luther and the teaching of Christ. The result has been that in our day millions, while protesting Catholic sin and corruption, are far from New Testament Christianity. Following Luther’s leadership they teach faith only, a doctrine that is foreign to the New Testament, and hold many other positions that are just as contrary to the scriptures. If men had looked beyond Luther to the inspired scriptures, this problem would not exist.

Another great man to whom we are much indebted is Alexander Campbell. Campbell lived in the nineteenth century and possibly as much or more, than any other man was responsible for the preaching of the pure gospel during the first half of that century. As was the case with Luther, many thought Campbell was so scholarly and such a Bible student that whatever position he took must be right. A case in point is the missionary society of 1849. At least on some occasions prior to the forming of this human organization to do the work of the church, Campbell had pleaded for the all-sufficiency of the church to do its work. This would, of course, exclude human organizations such as the missionary society. Campbell, nevertheless, accepted the presidency of the society and promoted its use and growth. That many accepted the society solely because Campbell thought it was right is not doubted. Where are the men today who have followed Campbell and his associates? After the missionary society came instrumental music, and the parade of one false practice after another, all introduced by the same authority–some man said. “I like this and if you follow me and have fellowship with me you must accept it.” Look at the liberal Christian churches of today and you will see the results.

It has already been suggested that the practice of following men is not confined to one century. The young prophet r ejected God and followed the old prophet; men followed Luther instead of Christ: Christians of the century just past depended on Campbell for guidance instead of the Word of God. The same thing is happening today with the same sad and lamented results. Men seem to hold positions on vital Bible subjects merely because some preacher, elder friend or relative happens to see it that way. God has ever been displeased with such and the results have always been chaotic. Examples that follow show this to be true.

Division exists among some churches of Christ today because of Carl Ketcherside’s new doctrine (many others are also teaching it) that there are Christians in all the denominational bodies, and that we should ‘fellowship” them all. If these brethren had not been following Ketcherside on other matters, and had not exalted him to a position of ruler and giver of the law, there would be no special problem with his liberalism. People would simply study the scriptures, see that what he is teaching is false, and reject it. The same would be true of others.

In 1938, E. R. Harper said: “A congregation has no right to build anything larger than it is able to support….” Many con1gregations that believed this then would under no circumstances allow it to be taught now. Why? Obviously because brother Harper has changed positions and they are followers of Harper. Consequently, they reject the truth that he taught in 1938 because he has rejected it, and freely accept false teaching for the same reason.

In 1939, Guy N. Woods said: “This writer has ever been unable to appreciate the logic of those who affect to see grave danger in Missionary Societies, but scruple not to form a similar organization for the purpose of caring for orphans and teaching young men to be gospel preachers. ” Some of the same people who believed this and allowed it to be taught then have spasms when the same thing is taught now. Why? Because Guy Woods and others teach exactly opposite to what was taught in 1939, and men are following Woods and other preachers rather than the Bible. The result has been contention, division, heartache, and possibly the loss of souls for eternity.

The only hope for man is to look beyond present day religious teachers. Campbell. Luther, and all other men who may have been great, unto Jesus, “the author and finisher of our faith;” follow His New Testament, speak where it speaks, remain silent where it is silent, obey every command, and enjoy the blessed promises after awhile. This is my prayer for all people.

Truth Magazine VI: 11, pp. 9-10
August 1962

By Johnie Edwards

“Now there was a God came to present day when the sons of themselves before the Lord, and Satan also a m o n g them.” (Job 1:6) Satan never passes up an opportunity to do his work. He came among the twelve apostles. “T h e n entered Satan into Judas surnamed Iscariot, being of the number of the twelve.” (Luke 22: 3.) Satan can do his work more effectively when he comes among people.

I would like for us to notice some instances when Satan came among people and to notice some applications.

(1) He Came Among Adam and Eve in the Garden:

After God had placed man in the Garden of Eden with the responsibility of dressing and keeping the garden and with the restriction of not eating of the tree of knowledge of good and evil lest death come, Satan came among them and said, “Ye shall not surely die.” (Gen. 3:4.) Anytime God makes His will known to man, Satan is there to tell man the very opposite.

(2) Satan Came When Christ Was Baptized:

The baptism of Jesus is recorded in Matthew 3:13-16. “Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.” (Matt. 4:1.) Surely the devil does not pass up the opportunity of coming among those who have just been baptized. He tries to make them concerned with the cares of this life. He sets them to criticizing instead of hearing to profit. He tries to cool down their ardor, abate their love, chill their praise, freeze their prayers and kill their zeal. Satan likes a “sleeping church.” It’s his business to rock the cradle, hush all noise and drive away even a fly which might light upon the sleeper’s face.

(3) When the Gospel of Christ Is Preached:

In the parable of the sower, Satan is pictured as coming among the wayside hearers. “Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.” (Luke 8:12.) Satan comes among people whenever the gospel is being preached and tries to steal the word away. He tries to get folks to question the word of God. For he knows that, “They that gladly received his word were baptized…” (Acts 2:41.)

(4) Satan Came Among Ananias and Sapphira:

Ananias with Sapphira sold a possession. Then Satan came among them. “But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled shine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?” (Acts 5:3.) When Christians get ready to give to the Lord’s work, what better time for Satan to come among them? If he can get us to think the Lord’s work is not very important and that we can get by without giving very much, then Satan has us going his way.

(5) When the Truth Is Preached About:

(a) The name we must wear. When it is pointed out that we must wear the name Christian, (Acts 11:26, 26:28; I Pet. 4:16), Satan comes among people and tells them, “There is nothing in a name.” Many believe him.(b) The church. When people are taught that they must be a member of the Lord’s church to be saved, (Acts 2:47; Eph. 5:23), Satan comes among them and says, “One church is just as good as another.” And many are deceived.(c) The Plan of Salvation. When men are taught to hear the word, have faith, repent of their sins, confess their faith, be baptized and live a faithful life, (Mark 16: 16, Acts 2:38), Satan comes among them and says, “You don’t have to be baptized to be saved.” Many take his advice.We need constantly be on guard against Satan. ” …for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. There it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as ministers of righteousness….” (2 Cor. 11:14-15)

Lest Satan come among us and deceive us, let’s remember the advice given by Peter, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” (I Pet. 5:8.)

Truth Magazine VI: 11, pp. 8-9
August 1962

By Cecil Willis

In the immediately preceding article you have seen the announcement concerning several changes to be made in the personnel and publication of TRUTH MAGAZINE. From the beginning of my acquaintance with TRUTH MAGAZINE, I have been enthusiastic about its publication. Its staff of writers has been an imposing one. Those brethren immediately connected with its publication have been men of repute among faithful brethren. The physical make-up of the paper has been unexcelled. Its content has been outstanding; its leadership, excellent.

Commendation of Past Publishers

Were it not due to an urgent press of other matters demanding the attention of Brother Bryan Vinson, Jr., I completely would be unwilling to accept the responsibility of editing the paper. It is my considered opinion that Brother Vinson, with his associates, has done a splendid work in the publishing of the paper during the past more than five years. I am not presumptuous to think that I shall do a better job than has been done thus far. However, I freely do pledge myself to the task of doing the best work of which I am capable as editor of the paper.

Brother Bryan Vinson, Jr. has surrounded himself with some able helpers in the persons of Leslie Diestelkamp, Gordon Pennock, Ray Ferris, Foy Vinson, and Bryan Vinson, Sr. These brethren largely have borne the load of publishing the paper till now. I was explicit in stating my refusal to assume the duties as editor if my doing so meant the loss of the help of any of these men. I am acutely aware of my inability to make TRUTH MAGAZINE a successful effort by my efforts only. Hence, my insistence that the men responsible for its publication in the past continue to give their aid. I already have asked and shall ask other men who are both “faithful” and “able” (2 Tim. 2:2) to help in this work.

It is a real pleasure to have the anticipated close association with William Wallace in this undertaking. The name “Wallace” is a significant one in our generation. But William’s reputation is not built around the lustre of his family name. He has made a reputation for himself, both as a direct and forceful preacher and as an excellent writer. It is my intention that William and I shall share equally in the responsibility of producing this paper, though formally he shall serve as “associate editor” and I as “editor.”

Paper to Relocate

TRUTH MAGAZINE feels that it has a place to fill which is peculiarly its own. It does not consider itself to be in competition with other good religious journals published by faithful brethren. We have no hesitancy to commend to you the GOSPEL GUARDIAN, the PRECEPTOR, SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES or any other good journal published by faithful brethren. However, since these three journals just mentioned are published in Texas and Florida, we hardly see how there could be any “conflict of interest” with TRUTH MAGAZINE, which has always been published here in the North.

Since Brother Wallace and I have assumed the obligations of publishing and editing the paper, we have decided to move it to Akron, Ohio. I now live in Akron, and Brother Wallace shortly shall return to the state of Ohio to work. These factors have led us in making the decision to move the paper to Akron, along with the fact that there are few, if any, cities where the membership of the churches would be more favorably disposed toward a publication such as TRUTH MAGAZINE than Akron.

Editorial Policy

A paper must have some editorial policy. However, the editorial policy of a paper does not necessarily change with the changing of editors. TRUTH MAGAZINE’S editorial policy has been one best described as “open forum” style. This simply means that the editor has not taken upon himself the shocking responsibility of becoming a brotherhood censor, as have some editors of other journals. Brother Vinson rather freely has permitted articles to be printed that expressed sentiments with which he was not in agreement. We shall continue to do likewise. Therefore, each writer shall be responsible only for those articles bearing his name. The simple fact that I shall insert an article in the paper shall not alone be taken as indication that I concur with every point expressed therein. However, should you care to know my sentiment regarding a point expressed in an article, it’s yours for the asking! It shall be our intention to be “fair,” with every import of that term.

While we shall accept articles with which we are not in agreement, this is not to be taken to imply that TRUTH MAGAZINE shall constitute a medium through which every “crackpot” or chronic “rabble-rouser” in the brotherhood shall have opportunity to let off steam. There is such a thing as editorial responsibility!

In substance: We have liked the editorial policy of TRUTH MAGAZINE thus far, and shall do our best to maintain its high standards of the past. We are not deluded in thinking that we shall please everyone. We have no illusion that even good, faithful brethren shall feel that in every instance did we exercise the best judgment. In fact, I suspect that there will be times when, after printing certain articles, that we ourselves shall doubt the wisdom of having done so. But even so, we shall do our best with each issue to do what we believe to be right and best.

Your Support Solicited

I would like to ask your help right now in assisting us to get off to a good start in this undertaking. The good accomplished in an undertaking of this sort depends upon two things primarily: (1) The number and quality of articles which the paper carries, and (2) The number of readers which it has. We therefore invite you to send us an article, and we urge you to help us by securing new renders for the paper. I am sure that you know someone who would enjoy reading this paper. Why not ask him to subscribe to the paper?

Brother Wallace and I undertake this work with a great deal of enthusiasm and optimism. But enthusiasm and optimism alone will not guarantee the paper’s success. We, therefore, shall unreservedly work for its success also. Will you join hands with us in making available a paper that will be as beneficial as possible to our readers? Toward this end we shall labor! Will you?

Truth Magazine VI: 11, pp. 3-4
August 1962