Truth Magazine

By Ron Halbrook

Many media ministers suffer from money mania. God warns that all kinds of evil will follow this malady:

They that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil (1 Tim. 6:9-10).

Lust for money opens the door to unethical means and ungodly methods of obtaining money. Witness the spectacle of Oral Roberts claiming a 900-foot-tall Jesus appeared and later that God threatened to kill Oral if people did not send him an extra $8 million. The love of money unleases other inordinate desires. Witness Jim Bakker’s sexual escapade and his wife’s drug addiction. Grabbing big bucks often sets off a power struggle. The media ministers’ soap opera includes stories of slush funds and hush money, extortion and blackmail, threats and counter-threats.

The abuse of money, power, and sex is not new in the American religious scene. Aimee Semple McPherson (1890-1944) or “Sister Aimee” was a noted Pentecostal “healer” who promoted magnetic fund raising schemes, built the $1.5 million Angelus Temple in Los Angeles in 1923, and established the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1927. Her ministry was marked by sensationalism, power struggles, and a sexual scandal in 1926. She died of an overdose of barbiturates. Billy James Hargis of Tulsa, Oklahoma was a fire-eating “fundamentalist” preacher often in the news until his sexual encounters with males and females were exposed. The Worldwide Church of God was rocked in the mid-1970s by charges and counter-charges over money, sex, and power involving both the founder, Herbert W. Armstrong (1892-1986), and his son, Garner Ted.

All men are subject to the temptations and dangers associated with lust for mammon, yet Jesus especially condemned the hypocrisy of professed religious leaders who hurt the cause of truth by their covetousness (Matt. 6:24; Mk. 12:40). False teachers are especially susceptible to such sins. At the root of every false doctrine is the appeal of worldly and ungodly principles, mixed with enough truth to increase its lure, which explains the great crowds and large sums of money often associated with error (1 Jn. 2:15-17; 4:5-6). Sin and error are debilitating – they “increase unto more ungodliness” and “wax worse and worse” (2 Tim. 2:16; 3:13).

Let’s compare and contrast what the Bible says with what we see today:

What The Bible Says	What We See Today
1. Men Destitute of the Truth Think Religion Is a Way of Gain (1 Tim. 6:5).	1. Media Minister’s Message: Send money, more money, & much more money!
2. Peter Told One Who Tried to Get the Blessings With Money: “thy money perish with thee” (Acts 8:20).	2. Oral Roberts Says All Who Send Him $$$: “Come into Agreement with Me” to Get From God All the “Money,” “Health,” & “Spiritual Power” They Need.
3. No New Testament Apostle or Preacher Amassed a Vast Financial Empire or lived in a Palatial Mansion, But They Made Every Sacrifice to Spread the Gospel (2 Cor. 11:23-33).	3. Many Media Ministers Amass a Vast Financial Empire & Live in Palatial Mansions (some own several).
4. Preachers Drew the Lost by Preaching the Gospel of Christ, Not by Attaching Entertainment, Schools & Medical Services to the Church (Rom. 1:16; 1 Tim. 3:15-16).	4. Robert Schuller, Jim Bakker, Jimmy Swaggart, Oral Roberts & Jerry Falwell Mix Entertainment, School & Medical Services with the Gospel & the Church.
5. God Taught Christians to Give for the Work of the Local Church on the First Day of the Week – As Each Prospers, No Certain Amount (1 Cor. 16:1-2; 2 Cor. 9:7).	5. False Religions Take Up $$$ Almost Every Time They Gather – Some Require Added 10 percent Levy & Keep Records on Member’s Giving.
6. God Promised the Age of Miracles Would End When All Revelation Needed to Complete the Bible was Finished (1 Cor. 13:8-13).	6. Roberts, Bakker, Swaggart, Pat Robertson, Kenneth Copeland, James Robison, Ken Hagin, et. al. Claim Miracles Did Not End When The Bible Was Finished.
7. Bible Preachers Said Sinners Are Saved by Grace When They Believe the Gospel, Repent of Sins, Confess Christ & Are Baptized (Mk. 16:16; Rom. 10:10; Acts 2:38).	7. False Teachers from Oral Roberts to Jerry Falwell Say Sinners Are Saved When They Believe & Pray for Jesus to Come Into the Heart.

The church of Christ is still preaching and practicing just what you can read in your Bible. We are interested in your soul not your money!

Guardian of Truth XXXI: 21, p. 651
November 5, 1987

By Kevin A. Suic

If a poll were taken of Christians in this country concerning where the most success in evangelism would be, reformatories or prisons would not likely be very high on the list. In fact, “prison evangelism” is considered by many to be a waste of time. Indeed, there have been many more failures than successes in prisons. However, I would like to share with you a wonderful work taking place in the Indiana State Reformatory in Pendleton, Indiana.

The History

In July of 1980, Walter and Hazel Maley of the Woodland Hills, Marion, IN church contacted Arnold Thompson of the South Noblesville, IN church about visiting Roger Dockery, an inmate at Pendleton. Brother Thompson asked Alan Jones, the local preacher, to go with him. Through the efforts of several Christians, Roger was soon converted to Christ. In the spring of 1981, Roger was granted clemency by the Governor because the change in his life was apparent to all. Since that time, he has begun a business in furniture upholstering, a trade which he learned in prison. In 1982, he married the former Brenda Hood, a Christian and member of the Fort Wayne, IN church. They now have a son. He and his family are faithful members of the Fort Wayne church, where he is now a Bible class teacher and occasionally preaches a sermon.

After the conversion of Roger Dockery, Alan Jones continued to go once a week to Pendleton to teach the Gospel. In August of 1981, Phil Morgan joined Alan in the work. By September of 1985, opportunities had multiplied so much that Joe McCameron and I were asked to help. The four of us going at least every other week since 1985 has caused the opportunities to grow greatly. Contacts have almost continually been made.

The Present Status

Earlier this year, due to the great opportunities and need, Alan Jones decided to devote all of his time to this work. Alan goes to Pendleton Monday – Thursday of every week. He studies with at least two men every day. Phil, Joe, and I continue to go once a week. All together, fourteen inmates are presently studying the Bible once a week. Our Bible studies are organized. We have a four lesson series which we study with each new contact. This series is designed to lead one to Christ. By the end of this series, we can usually determine their sincerity and what their further needs are. We also teach lessons on the Book of Acts, Denominationalism, Evidences, and Authority to those who have need of such lessons. For those who are new converts, we have a series of lessons to help them mature in Christ. One Christian is presently studying Bible History and Geography. In addition to our classes, we send Bible correspondence courses and reading material to those who request such.

Our present goal in addition to spreading the Word even more, is to get what is called a “count-letter.” This is where up to fifteen inmates can meet with a group from the outside for two hours. This would provide several opportunities: (1) The Christians in there could worship together and form a sense of unity; (2) They would be able to meet other Christians from the outside; (3) The gospel could be preached to an audience of inmates. Eventually, we also hope to arrange something where the Christians can assemble on Sunday to commune.

Success And Failure

Have we been successful? Yes! There are presently three faithful Christians in the prison with several others close to being baptized. I should mention that baptism is somewhat difficult to accomplish. We are not allowed to go in and baptize. One of the chaplains usually will do it, but there is a lot of “red tape.” Also, some of the inmates do not want a chaplain to baptize them; so as you can see, there are some unfortunate hold-ups.

Have there been failures? Yes. Some, after months of study, have proven insincere and unworthy. Some have gotten out of prison and either gotten right back into trouble or joined a denomination. Others are still in prison and have become unfaithful. As you can see, the parable of the soils is true everywhere!

Answering The Critic

As with any “new” thing, there are going to be varied reactions. So far, most of the reaction has been good. Alan has raised most of his support for which all of us are very thankful. But not all has been positive. Let me take this time to answer some of the negative reactions we have received.

(1) “Why a prison, of all places?” The opportunity is there. There are souls who desire the gospel and that type of opportunity is what we are to be looking for (1 Cor. 16:8-9).

(2) “But, they are criminals!” That is exactly right! Remember, Jesus had some of the greatest successes with the “worst” sinners of Jewish society (see Mt. 9:9-13; cf. 21:28-32).

(3) “Prison work has proven unsuccessful.” I am not saying every prison will have opportunity. It is possible only a few will – but at Pendleton and other prisons there is opportunity and success. Brethren, let us not overlook opportunity just because it is not in a middle class neighborhood!

(4) “Prison work is not evangelism. ” Since when? What is the difference between teaching in a pulpit, on the street, at a kitchen table, and at a table inside prison walls? Teaching is teaching. Brethren, when will we learn that “pulpit preaching” is not the only, and surely not the most, successful means of evangelism?

(5) “Prison work does not constitute ‘full-time’ work. ” What is really meant is that it does not involve a pulpit, which we have already mentioned. Alan Jones presently prepares for and studies with nine men per week, every week. How many “full-time preachers” do you know who are involved in evangelism that much? He also sends correspondence courses, edits and publishes the Cambridge City, IN church bulletin, and has occasional preaching appointments. Full-time work? – Yes!

How Can You Help?

As we have mentioned, Alan Jones has devoted his full time to this work, therefore he needs support. He has all he and his family (wife and son) need through September. Beginning in October, they need $410.00 more per month. Can you help? Alan deserves support! His address is P. 0. Box 112, Pershing, IN 47370. Also if you would like to correspond with some of the inmates or send them bulletins, etc. (both of which they would appreciate) or like any more information, details, etc., you can contact either Alan or myself.

Guardian of Truth XXXI: 21, pp. 652, 653
November 5, 1987

By Raymond E. Harris

Along with “love” and “mother,” the word “peace” is one of the sweetest words known to man. The word “peace” is found about 150 times in the Old Testament and over 80 times in the New Testament. The word “peace” is found in every New Testament book except First John. The Scriptures tell us that Jesus is the “Prince of Peace”; that peace makers shall be called “the children of God”; and that peace is a fruit of the Spirit. Yet, it seems that almost every generation cries, “Peace, peace; when there is no peace.” Both sacred and secular history tell of man’s futile efforts to maintain peace.

To enjoy true peace, man must not only be at peace with his fellow man but also with his God. In fact, because of his very nature, man will not be at peace with his fellow man until he is first at peace with Jehovah.

Notice the order of events in the beginning. As long as Adam and Eve were obedient and at peace with God, they were at peace with one another. But once sin entered into their lives, they knew little peace. Their arrogance, presumption and disobedience separated them from God and immediately they began to fuss and the family relationship was never the same again. From that time forward man was destined to live by the sweat of his brow and the woman was to be subject to her husband. In due time the feelings between Cain and Abel became so strained that Cain killed Abel. From that day till this, self-righteousness, hatred, envy, jealousy and all the other emotions that destroy peace have been all too evident in the history and affairs of man.

The people of our time have known little peace. During the past 30 years, our nation has been involved in war three times. Year after year the crime rate has continued to skyrocket. We suffer an unprecedented divorce rate.

What is behind all of this? The answer is evident! The nation has turned from God! For the first time in our history, less than half of our population admits to having any religion. Our courts have outlawed God, and our theologians tell us that in fact, “God is dead.” Our grade schools teach evolution and our universities have become lewd love nests. For several years, unbathed, unshaven deadbeats became the heroes of the hour, and law and order were crucified. From the least to the greatest, the cry is “peace, peace”. . but there is no peace.

What is the answer? A return to the Prince of Peace! What can be done? Let’s start with you. Are you a Christian? If not, you need to realize that obedience to Christ is the only source of real peace. In John 16:33, Jesus said, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation; but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

On the other hand, if you profess to be a Christian, do you really work at it? Do you strive to live for Jesus daily and do you zealously participate in the affairs of the church? If you have not been true to your profession, you are not truly at peace with God or yourself. If you really want to be at peace with God, your fellow man and yourself, “Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man” (Eccl. 12:13). “Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:6,7).

Guardian of Truth XXXI: 21, p. 657
November 5, 1987

By J. Wiley Adams

“For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God” (1 Cor. 1:18).

“But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world” (Gal. 6:14).

Webster defines the word “wonder” as “a cause of surprise or astonishment; a marvel; prodigy. A miracle. The emotion excited by novelty, or by something strange or not well understood; astonishment.” Perhaps the word ” prodigy” more aptly fits our topic than the other definitions. Webster defines “prodigy” as “something extraordinary, or out of the usual course of nature.” Surely this is what will be under consideration as we explore the “wonders” of the cross of Christ.

The cross is the central theme of God’s redemptive system. It was planned “from the foundation of the world” (Rev. 13:8). Jesus knew if mankind were to be redeemed from sin that he would have to face the cross (Jn. 18:4).

What gospel preacher has not at times begun a sermon or a series of sermons by reference to 1 Corinthians 2:14 as he, along with Paul, announced his resolve to preach “Christ and him crucified.” To do more or do less would negate the purpose of the cross. Let us now consider several wonders” of the cross of Christ.

Its Paradoxes

A paradox is a seeming contradiction, but only “seeming” as we shall employ the term. The cross is truly the greatest of paradoxes. It was history’s most tragic event, the saddest spectacle man ever beheld, Satan’s greatest victory, Christ’s greatest defeat, God’s greatest manifestation of hatred of sin, the darkest hour of history, the appalling bloodthirstiness of the wicked, man’s sinfulness, and God’s holiness. On the other hand the cross was the most wonderful event of history, the source of the greatest joy, Satan’s greatest defeat and Christ’s greatest victory, God’s supreme proof of his love for sinful man, the time of the world’s greatest light, divine forgiveness portrayed (“Father, forgive them”), human weakness and Divine strength. Is it any wonder as we contemplate these things that we like to sing songs such as “When I Survey The Wondrous Cross”?

Its Victim

Many men have died on a Roman cross. History is replete with accounts of such. Some of them deserved the death penalty. No doubt some did not. But, all were sinners, nevertheless. Not so with Christ. He was the only truly innocent person ever to live on earth. No guile was found in his mouth as he went about doing good (1 Pet. 2:22; Acts 10:38). He “was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin” (Heb. 4:15).

We often sing “What a friend we have in Jesus” and how true this is. He was compassionate even toward those who crucified him (Luke 23:34). He died a voluntary, vicarious death for you and me (1 Pet. 2:21). He lived his life on earth for others and not for himself. He owned no property, he healed the sick, he raised the dead, he made the blind to see, and taught the sinners the way of salvation. On the cross he had regard to the appeal of the thief beside him (Luke 23:43) and to the care of his mother (Jn. 19:26,27). He even plead for his executioners.

Though innocent, his death was for the guilty. He was falsely accused, beaten, spit upon, reviled, and mocked (Luke 23:35; Mt. 27:26,29). He bore his own cross, he was nailed to it, suspended between earth and heaven with a malefactor on either side, bearing the burden of the sins of mankind upon him. The pain was excruciating, the loneliness and despondency of the moment bleak and desolate, forsaken by heaven and earth. Why did he not call ten legions of angels? He could have. But he did not. It was the only way man could be redeemed from sin. So he did it for you and for me. Praise God, what a Savior!

Its Necessity

How can we conceive of Deity being under necessity? Yet, if man was to be redeemed from sin it was a divine “must.” Jesus said, “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up” (Jn. 3:14).

Why this necessity? When man sinned the cross became a necessity (Gen. 3:15). Since all sin, no one can save himself. Therefore, if man is to be saved, a divine substitute was the only answer (1 Pet. 2:24).

God’s righteousness and justice demanded it. God’s justice required penalty for sin. His love required consideration for the sinner. Through the cross God was both “just and the justifier of those who believe in Jesus” (Rom. 3:26).

Without the cross the prophecies of the Old Testament would have been without meaning. The law of Moses could not have been fulfilled without the cross (Col. 2:14).

Our salvation depended on the cross. Christ’s mission on the earth was to save (Luke 19: 10). That being true, Christ gave himself to that end (Eph. 5:25; Mark. 10:45).

Is it any wonder that the redeemed of all ages was portrayed as singing “Thou art worthy, for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred and tongue and people and nation” (Rev. 5:9).

Its Divine Demonstration

Jesus had made many claims as to his divinity. As a result he was accused of blasphemy (Jn. 8:12,16-18,21-22). The cross would fully substantiate every claim of Jesus. “When ye have lifted up the Son of Man, then shall ye know that I am he” (Jn. 8:28). This is the challenge of the cross.

At the cross Jesus exemplified in his death what he had announced in his life. Even the Roman centurion confessed, “Truly, this was the Son of God” (Mt. 27:54). All the efforts of the Roman powers, as well as that of the Jews, could not keep Jesus in the tomb (Mt. 27:67; 28:4).

When Christ said, “It is finished” on the cross, God said “Amen” to it when Christ was raised from the dead, thus showing his approval of Christ’s work of redemption.

Its Attraction

The magnetism of the cross is reflected in the statement of Jesus in John 12:32: “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth I will draw all men unto me.” The attraction is not seen in the manner in which Christ died but rather in regard to the person of Christ and his purpose on the cross.

At the cross we see the most beautiful character ever portrayed (Jn. 21:25), the greatest demonstration of God’s grace ever made known toward man (2 Cor. 8:9), the greatest power ever beheld by man (Rom. 1:16), and the greatest salvation that could ever be contemplated (Heb. 2:3; 7:25).

Its All Sufficiency

The apostle Paul gloried only in the cross (Gal. 6:14) and thus urged the same thing on us. He knew its sufficiency to save, not only himself (Eph. 3:8), but others as well (1 Cor. 2:14).

The cross is sufficient to meet every human need (2 Pet. 5:7; 1 Cor. 12:7), and is the only way to be saved (Acts 4:12). All must come, as it were, to the cross where only there is reconciliation (Col. 1:20).

Its Glorious Hope

The hope brought to us by the cross is so utterly profound in its complexities and scope, thus reflecting its Divine source, yet, at the same time, its end result which is salvation and peace with God is so utterly simple as to be within the grasp of every man.

The cross provided “peace of mind … .. peace with God” and the “peace of God” (Col. 1:20; Phil. 4:6-9). It provides assurance in death, knowing that “to be with Christ, is far better” (Phil. 1:23). It provides a glorious eternity for the soul. Our bodies will be changed and we will be like Christ (1 Jn. 3:1-3; 1 Cor. 15:51-58).

The cross provides a beautiful abiding place, or mansion (Jn. 14:1-3) eternal in its nature with God and Christ forever. What a blessing it will be to have eternal companionship with the Divine Trio, where there will be no more tears, death, sorrow, pain or suffering. How beautiful Heaven must be! What a blessed future awaits the faithful of God!

Behold, the wonders of the cross! Let us all live so that we will not let salvation slip away from us. What a waste that would be!

Guardian of Truth XXXI: 20, pp. 637-638
October 15, 1987