Truth Magazine

By Dennis Abernathy

As we look around us today we see disobedience on every hand. With many, obedience seems to be a thing of the past. Disobedience is in evidence in homes, in the schools, with regard to the civil authorities, and even in the church of our Lord. It may help to read such passages as Ephesians 6:1-3; Romans 13:1-7 and Hebrews 13:17.

In Hebrews 5:8-9, the Hebrew writer says that “though He was a Son, yet He learned obedience by the things which He suffered. And having been perfected, He became the author of eternal salvation to all who obey Him.” Salvation, then, is predicated on obedience. One must obey God; i.e., do His will. “Not everyone who says to me, Lord, Lord shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father in heaven” (Matt. 7:21). Let us now notice five ways in which man disobeys God.

1. We may do what He has forbidden us to do. Adam and Eve were guilty of this very thing. “And the woman said unto the serpent, we may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die” (Gen. 3:2-3). Adam and Eve knew God’s will in this regard (Eve stated it to the serpent), but being deceived through the serpent’s lie, they did what God had forbidden them to do. “And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat” (v. 6).

Another clear case of doing that which God has forbidden is that of Lot’s wife. God’s instructions are given plainly in Genesis 19:17. “And it came to pass, when they had brought them forth abroad, that he said: escape for thy life; look not behind thee, neither stay thou in all the plain; escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed.” In verses 24-26 we read: “Then the Lord rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the Lord out of heaven; and He overthrew those cities, and all the plain, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and that which grew upon the ground. But his wife looked back from behind him, and she became a pillar of salt.” Jesus said in Luke 17:32, “Remember Lot’s wife.” She therefore become a monument of warning for all time concerning doing that which God has forbidden.

Shall we leave out Jeroboam as another example of this particular kind of disobedience? Read 1 Kings 12:25-33. We have the kingdom dividing with the two tribes staying with Rehoboam, and thereafter being referred to as Judah and the ten tribes going away with Jeroboam and being referred to as Israel. Jeroboam knew what God required of His people concerning their religious activity and the feasts and festivals that were to take place at Jerusalem. He felt that if the people were to go back up to Jerusalem to do sacrifice that they would be influenced to stay with Rehoboam, so he devised a wicked plan clearly involving things which God had forbidden! He set up idols (golden calves), making the same claim for them that Aaron had made for the golden calf at Mt. Sinai (Ex. 32:4). “Behold, thy gods, 0 Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt” (v. 28). He played upon the longing of the people for convenience by saying, “It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem” (v. 28).

God had forbidden idols, and they were to worship in Jerusalem in the temple. The priests were to come from the tribe of Levi and they were to make their offerings on the altar God had erected, and observe the feast days which God had set up. But Jeroboam changed everything! Just here, it would be well for you to read 2 Chronicles 11:13-17. The tribe of Levi had rebelled against the House of David with Jeroboam, but when he devised his own system of religion, and the Levites were rejected and cast out, they returned to Rehoboam and Judah.

As you read this account of Jeroboam in 1 Kings 12, notice the phrases: “He set,” “he made,” “he offered,””so did he,” “he placed,” “which he had made,” “he ordained,” “which he had devised of his own heart.” But God said, “and this thing became a sin. . . ” (v. 30).

One last example will suffice. The young prophet we read of in 2 Kings 13 disobeyed God by doing what God forbade him to do. They both did what God said not to do and they were punished for it. When God directs us and forbids us to do a certain thing, we peril our very souls when we do it. Brethren, take heed!

2. We may refuse or fail to do what he has commanded. Jonah is guilty of this very thing – at least the first time the Lord appeared to him. In Jonah 1:1-3, we read: “‘And the word of the Lord came unto Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry against it; for their wickedness is come up before me. But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord.” At this point, God clearly outlined to the prophet Jonah what He wanted him to do. But Jonah refused to do it! God said go one way and Jonah went the other. He disobeyed God! You know what happened to Jonah, and so after his experience in the belly of the great fish, God came to Him a second time. God’s instruction was the same as it was at the first, but this time the Bible says “. . . Jonah arose, and went unto Nineveh, according to the word of the Lord. . .” (Jon. 3:3).

Friend, Jonah refused to do what he was commanded, because he did not like the mission he was given. He did not want the Assyrians spared, and he knew that if they heeded his preaching that God would spare them (read 4:1-3). Will we be guilty of refusing to do what God says because we do not like what He tells us to do? Remember Jonah. He had to learn some very valuable lessons and the learning process was not too easy for him.

One more example will be enough on this point. Read I Samuel 15. This is the account of Saul and God’s instructions to him concerning the Amalekites. God’s instructions were clearly outlined to Saul. “Now go and smite Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and spare them not; but slay both man and woman, infant and suckling, ox and sheep, camel and ass” (v. 3). But in verse 9, we see Saul refusing to do what God had commanded! “But Saul and the people spared Agag, and the best of the sheep, and of the oxen, and of the fatlings, and the lambs, and all that was good, and would not utterly destroy them. . . . ” Saul was disobedient to the Lord and his trying to “pass the buck” didn’t help him one bit. The Lord accepts no excuses or alibis for disobedience. Some may reason that it is alright to do “part” of what God says, or refuse or fail to do what He says as long as the failure is well intentioned, i.e. “to offer sacrifice.” But what does God say? “It repenteth me that I have set up Saul to be king: for he is turned back from following me, and hath not performed my commandments. . . ” (v. 11) Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the Lord, He hath also rejected thee from being king” (w. 22-23). When we fail to do what God has commanded, He sees us as stubborn and rebellious!

Now, let us read 1 John 2:3-6 – “Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. He who says, ‘I know Him,’ and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked. ” That one who claims fellowship with God while refusing to do His will is characterized as a liar and the truth is not in him. But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.” That one who claims fellowship with God while refusing to do His will is characterized as a liar! It is one thing to “claim” to know God and another thing altogether to actually know Him. Paul writes of those who “profess that they know God; but by their works they deny Him. . . ” (Tit. 1: 16).

With these things in mind, does one know God or is he found a liar with regard to the following:

(1) God commands us to “not forsake the assembling of ourselves together” (Heb. 10:25). But I refuse to obey that command, while claiming fellowship with Him.

(2) Christians are commanded to be modest in their dress (1 Tim. 2:9-10). Rather than obey this command of God I conform to the standards of styles of this world. Does God hear my affirmations of “knowing Him” when He can see that I am a “liar” due to my rebellion?

(3) God commands people to be baptized to be saved (Mk. 16:16). Can one “know” God and claim to love Him and be closely acquainted with Him and rebel against this plain command? Will sincerity and good intentions be enough?

(4) God commands that we sing in worship to Him (Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16). What about one who refuses to obey and adds mechanical instruments? Does he know God? Are his claims found to be false?

When we refuse to obey God’s commands, we become stubborn and rebellious people! We turn our backs upon God and regardless of all of the claims to the contrary, our profession of fellowship with God becomes a lie!

3. One may add to His word The Bible is filled with warnings about adding to the words and commandments of God. We put our souls in jeopardy when we presume to add to the Word of the Almighty.

In Deuteronomy 4:2, Moses said: “Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you. . . that ye may keep the commandments of the’Lord your God which I command you.” The only way to keep the commandments of the Lord is to do it exactly. When we add our “think-so’s” and presumptions, when we apply our own human wisdom to the matter we wind up not keeping the commandments of the Lord at all! Moses states again in 12:32: “What thing soever I command you, observe to do it; thou shalt not add thereto. . . . ” I can well remember my mother telling me as a child: “When I tell you to do something, I mean do it!” I knew what that meant, and we had better understand this truth with regard to God’s law as well.

Joshua, who took over as leader for God’s people after Moses, reiterates the same thing when he says in Joshua 1:7: “Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law which Moses my servant commanded thee, turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper withersoever thou goest.” Emphasis is placed upon “all” the law “commanded” thee. He did not say “part” of the law, neither did he say some “additional” laws. In other words, if you want to prosper, do not deviate from My law! True wisdom dictates that we “add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar” (Prov. 30:6). Any person who adds to the word of God and claims God’s approval in doing so, is found to be a liar.

Two passages from the New Testament will suffice on this point. In 2 John 9, we read: “Anyone who goes too far and does not abide in the teaching of Christ does not have God; the one who abides in the teaching, he has both the Father and the Son.” When one “goes too far” he “does not abide” in the Lord’s teaching. To add to the Word of the Lord is to go too far, and thus one is guilty of not abiding in His teaching and loses God! That person who abides in the teaching of Christ is one who veers neither to the right nor the left of it. He does not add anything to it. He regards it as God’s complete and sufficient standard insofar as his life is concerned. Adding to the Word of God is serious business and results in the loss of God Himself.

In Revelation 22:18 we find the following words: “For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophesy of this book, if any man shall add unto these things. God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book.” What book in all of the Bible has been more abused than has the book of Revelation? Men have added this and that — speculation upon speculation — all without any proof whatsoever. Friend, be warned. The same principle that applies to the Revelation letter applies to any other part of God’s word. Take heed. God warns!

May we never be guilty of adding to the word of God. Accept it as it is, “not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe” (1 Thess. 2:13). Any who seek to add the doctrines of men or feign some new latter-day revelation stand condemned of God and cursed in His sight.

4. One may take from His word. In Deuteronomy 4:2, Moses said: “Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you. ” Then in Revelation 22:19, we read: “And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophesy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.” The prophet Jeremiah echoed the same sentiment: “. . . all the words that I command thee to speak unto them; diminish not a word” (Jer. 26:2).

Our obedience to God must be complete. God will never accept a partial obedience. We need not think that we can please God by altering, mutilating, adding to, or substracting from His will. Jesus said: “Not everyone who says to Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father in heaven” (Matt. 7:21). Doing the will involves all of the will. Paul said: “For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27). Paul understood that nothing was to be taken away or substracted from God’s word. He stated in Acts 20:20: “. . . I kept back nothing that was helpful. . . . ” Friend, let us learn when we take anything away from the revealed will of God we sin!

5. One may substitutefor God’s word. The classic example of this would be Aaron’s two boys, Nadab and Abihu. This is found in Leviticus 10:1-2. They “offered strange fire before the Lord, which He commanded them not.” Just exactly what was involved in this violation, I’m not definitely sure. Perhaps it was taking the fire from the wrong place (16:12) or maybe it involved the incense also (Ex. 30:9). But one thing I do know. Nadab and Abihu did that “which he commanded them not. ” We learn that “fire is not fire” when the Lord has specified a certain thing. We do not hastily offer just any kind of service and expect the Lord to accept it, for He will not! He did not then and He will not today.

Other examples could be cited, such as David transporting the ark and Uzzah touching it and losing his life because of it. Substitution is certainly involved here for the things and ways of God (read 1 Chron. 13; 15:13; Num. 4:15; Exo. 25:14-15). Also the account of Naaman the leper, who when told to dip seven times in the river Jordan became wroth and thought to substitute two others rivers that he surmised “would do just as well.” Had he not gotten over his anger and listened to reason and finally obeyed the commands of God, he would have forever remained a leper. Listen friend, it is no small thing to substitute for God’s word.

Brethren, look around you today. Churches are substituting for God’s word in every realm; substituting human institutions for God’s divine institution, the church, substituting the patterns of men for God’s pattern revealed in His will, corrupting His worship by substituting the things of men for the simple worship outlined in His Holy will (Matt. 15:8-9). The organization of our Savior’s church is prostrated before the world because ungodly men who have no respect for His way have substituted their own organizational structures for His. I can assure you brethren, a day of reckoning is surely coming, and what a sad day it will be for those who would tamper with God’s will.

We must never disobey God in any of these five ways. God is dear to us and very good to us, but He demands that we obey Him in all things (Matt. 7:21; Heb. 5:8-9). Honesty and sincerity are honorable and necessary, but they alone are not enough, without obedience. God does not “wink at ignorance” no matter how sincere one may be (Acts 17:30). We must know God’s will and we must do God’s will.

Guardian of Truth XXIX: 22, pp. 682-683, 692
November 21, 1985

By Robert F. Turner

“Now my idea about heaven is. . .” and then the writer or speaker reveals himself far more than he tells us about heaven. The materialist, sensual, mystical, aesthetic, and surrealist all have a field day with heaven. It is “pie in the sky” to those who ridicule its reality; and an extremely plush “paid vacation” for those who equate “real” with earthly literalism.

“Heaven” is a divinely revealed place, state, or condition; and we can know only that which is revealed about it in God’s word. We say “place” with some hesitation, using accommodative language; for “location” is space related, and may lose its literal significance when applied to eternity. But God’s word is directed to time and space related beings, and information about deity and eternity are necessarily couched in terms that translate into mental images. We can not truly imagine “eternity” or things eternal in nature, so we must expect the Bible to use anthropormorphisms: whereby things of God, totally incomprehensible to mortal man, are described in the time and space terms of man.

Jewish typology finds its final usage here. God built a literal people, a literal nation, through whom His Son would put on flesh and dwell among men. He used these people, a distinct advantage to them, as His vehicle for demonstrating God-to-man dealings (Rom. 3:1f; 9:4-5). Then, as His eternal purpose began to reach its fruition in Christ, the literal kingdom of Israel is seen as a type of His spiritual rule over whosoever will. Christ reigns on “David’s throne,” and is our High Priest “after the order of Melchizedek” (Acts 2:30f; Heb. 6:20f). Scattered Israel finds a “highway” and “returns. . . in righteousness” (Isa. 10:20f; 35:8f); and all Christians are “Abraham’s seed” or “the Israel of God” (Gal. 3:29; 6:16). It should come as no surprise that heaven is called “New Jerusalem”; and praise to God there is described in Jewish terms: “golden vials full of odors, which are the prayers of saints” (Rev. 5:8).

The apocalyptic description of heaven (Rev. 21:1f) speaks of the “Holy City” Jerusalem, with its walls of jasper, and other precious stones; its street (singular) of gold; twelve gates, each made of a single pearl, named after the twelve tribes of Israel. The tabernacle (KJV) of God is there, but this is the true abode of Jehovah – not a “tent” in which the “presence” of God is indicated by a cloud of glory. In fact, we are told “I saw no temple therein, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it” (21:22). God is on His throne – for the authority of God is eternal. There is plenty of water, and trees, including the “tree of life” (restoring that which was lost when man was separated from Eden). The high imagery is further indicated by the measuring of the city “the length and the breadth and the height of it are equal” – a perfect cube (21:16b).

Materialists may literalize heaven to a point of absurdity: as though heaven will be the fulfillment of their most covetous and lustful appetites. We sing, “I want a gold (mansion) that’s silver lined” – forgetting that the street is made of gold. It seems we should realize that Bible descriptions of heaven which emphasize its beauty, its value, the peace and lack of pain that prevails, etc., are relating heaven’s wonders to the human realm. We cannot improve on God’s way of describing heaven, and would be foolish to try it. But there is ample evidence God is telling us that holiness, righteousness, purity, and praise of God find perfection there. This means little to worldly people, but is given its true significance by the genuine child of God.

Paul wrote: “Our citizenship is in heaven: whence also we wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Phil. 3:20). Philippi was a Roman colony, where citizens were mostly retired soldiers, given full citizenship in the “mother” city Rome. Though far from that city, they dressed Roman, spoke Latin, observed Roman morals, were governed by Roman magistrates, “remained unshakeably and unalterably Roman” (cf. Barclay). Paul was saying the Christian, no matter where he is, must never forget he is a citizen of heaven; and his conduct must match his citizenship. To this kind of people, heaven is “going home. ” Oh what a wonderful thought to those who have practiced heavenly citizenship, longing for the day when they will dwell in God’s presence. “Home to heaven” will be a happy trip for those who, on earth, hunger and thirst after righteousness (Matt. 5:6). But what of those who have no such taste? Can we expect them to long for a life totally different from what they now pursue?

The passage in Philippians continues: “(Christ) who shall fashion anew the body of our humiliation, that it may be conformed to the body of his glory. . . .” In Romans 7 the body, with its fleshly appetites, is seen as a “law” (force) which wars against the inward man or mind desirous of doing God’s will. The conflict results in a “wretched man,” captive to sin in his members, and delivered only by forgiveness through Christ (7:18f). The Christian must strive to “put to death the deeds of the body” (8:13). Paul then promises that though we, “groan and travail in pain… now” (8:22); we wait for our adoption, to wit, “the redemption of our body” (v. 23). This body, with appetites which war against our desire to serve God, will be changed in heaven – the conflict will be over. How wonderful for those who war against the flesh here! But what of those who “let themselves go,” and revel in appetites of the flesh? Do they long for a body change, with fleshly appetites removed?

I am persuaded heaven is not for everyone. It is a prepared place for a prepared people. Heaven’s invitation is not limited; its glories are available to all. But many are ill prepared for heaven, and I cannot believe God would force heaven upon anyone. There is an old story about a slave whose “Massa” had died, and who was asked if he thought the Master had gone to heaven. He said the “Massa” always talked about places he planned to visit, and made great preparation for going there. But “Massa” never talked about heaven, and made no preparation for that destination. “Chances are he ain’t makin’ dat trip!”

Sorry – I can’t tell you any more about heaven than what you can read in the Scriptures; and I can tell that only in terms used by the Holy Spirit to give us some idea of its wonders. But God’s word clearly warns us of an ultimate “last day” when judgment shall be declared, and we shall face one of two eternal destinies. The righteous dead shall be there (1 Thess. 4:16), and so shall the wicked. “Marvel not at this: for the hour cometh, in which all that are in the tombs shall hear his voice, and shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of judgment” (Jn. 5:28-29). Christ makes it clear that the destinies are the same duration: saying, “And these shall go away into eternal punishment: but the righteous into eternal life” (Matt. 25:46).

Whatever heaven will be like, it will be “home” for the Christian, and an end to the struggles of this life. Those who are striving to serve God in the here and now, are going to love it. I doubt that those who ridicule the godly life would be happy there. And that is doubly sad, for it is highly unlikely they will like the other place.

Guardian of Truth XXIX: 22, pp. 679, 691
November 21, 1985

By Lewis Willis

An atheist who listens to our call-in radio program recently sent me a copy of an article by Phillip Adams, an atheist in Australia, which appeared in the Madalyn Murray O’Hair publication, American Atheist (July, 1985). Adams said he did not believe in God. “Haven’t believed in him (or her, or it) since I was six.”

I guess we were supposed to take the fellow seriously in what he said. If so, you could only call him a six-year-old atheist, He thinks all believers in God are dumb, but we’re not that dumb!

I do not remember much about age six in my life. But I do vividly recall raising three children through age six. They were trying to learn their ABC’s, or trying to learn to count to 25, or trying to print their names, or trying to decide if they liked chocolate ice cream better than vanilla and many other six-year-old-type problems. However, we are asked to seriously believe that Adams, at age six, had weighed all the evidence and had come to the conclusion that there was no God and that he was an atheist. Come now, stop fooling around. At age six, one would have had trouble pronouncing “atheist” and I am certain he could not have spelled it. If you think intelligent people are going to believe that, your ignorance is sticking out.

This six-year-old atheist has grown to be a thing to behold. He now speaks of God as “unnecessary, albeit charming fiction, like the tooth fairy, the Easter bunny or Father Christmas… like … the Cheshire cat… thumbing his enormous nose at rationalists, humanists, Atheists and sundry heretics.” This intellectual giant has struggled over what God should be called. He ridicules religion for using the word “God.” He reasons, “Why not call it E=mc2? Or nothing? Or Jubilation T. Cornpone?” He says religion sees God “as a grumpy old bugger glaring balefully down at an unworthy world, just aching to demolish it, to judge and to pulverize.” Our marvelous atheist sees religion as “bed-time stories. . . so much whistling in the dark.” He sees God as an idea, “A very small one . . . a nervous idea. A timid, pip-squeak of a notion . . . a bit like the Wizard of Oz. . . . The idea of god grows in the way a balloon grows, a membrane inflated by ignorance.”

The Apostle Paul talked about some folks who “did not like to retain God in their knowledge.” He said they became vain in their imagination and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools who changed the truth of God into a lie (Rom. 1:21-28).

At age six, Phillip Adams became an atheist and he remains an atheist today. But something is going to happen which is going to change him beyond his wildest imaginations. The Bible teaches us that God has exalted Christ and given Him a name which is above every name. The purpose of God is that every knee should bow at the name of Jesus and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Phil. 2:9-11). Now, this bowing and confessing can take place while we are living on this earth and it can result in the salvation of our souls. Or, we can wait until the judgment, when every arrogant, haughty, ignorant soul shall come to know the truth that there is a God and Jesus is His Son and confess Him then. Then, for an eternity in Hell every atheist will be finally be compelled to believe in God.

I received a bulletin the other day with the following quotation:

Life With Christ Is An Endless Hope: Life Without Christ Is A Hopeless End.

Our purpose in serving the Lord is that we might partake of that Hope in an eternal Heaven with God. The atheist is rushing, whether he realizes it or not, to the hopeless, dead-end despair of an eternal Hell. If we are wrong in our belief in God, and the atheist is right, we have lost nothing. If we are right, and the atheist is wrong, he has lost more than his sick, perverted, cynical mind can imagine. I am not six years old anymore but I have chosen to believe in God. And, I’m not even ashamed of it!

I was just thinkin’, this six-year-old atheist is going to become a believer! Isn’t that ironic? The Psalmist declared, “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. Corrupt are they, and have done abominable iniquity: there is none that doeth good” (Psa. 53: 1). An atheistic six-year-old mentality is not very becoming in an adult, is it? Ours is not “the tooth fairy” position. That more suitably describes the posture of the atheist. That smug rationalism, so easily offered in ignorance, shall one day give way to weeping, wailing and gnashing of teeth.

Guardian of Truth XXIX: 22, p. 678
November 21, 1985

By Jimmy Tuten

Our society is pressure-filled, problem-racked and sin-soiled. There are failures, disappointments, rudenesses and unkindnesses that affect us. Some are psychologically bruised and battered. Hearts are bleeding from wounds that are raw and constant. There are those whose actions belie their claim to be Christians and who, instead of being the preservatives that the “salt of the earth” (Matt. 5:13) should be, are heaping affliction upon affliction. Like beasts of the field there is the rushing in to viciously attack and destroy the spiritually wounded and the afflicted. Why do some of our brethren ignore Galatians 6:1-2 and similar passages with their guerrilla like tactics? Because of prejudice! Prejudice blocks forever the channels of love and it blurs the eyes of reason. As long as prejudice exists there is no hope in this life or in the world to come. Prejudice cannot see things as they are, because it is always looking for things that aren’t. It sees what it pleases, but cannot see what is plain.

The dictionaries define “prejudice” as “preconceived judgment or opinion, especially an opinion or learning adverse to anything without grounds, or before sufficient knowledge.” The Bible speaks of dealing with one another “without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality” (1 Tim. 5:21). The expression, “without preferring” is from the Greek prokrima, denoting pre-judging (akin to prokrino, to judge beforehand), being put aside, by unfavorable judgment due to partiality (Vine, Thayer, etc.). Prejudice is that action which forms conclusions without sufficient evidence while ignoring and disregarding all facts. It squints when it looks and lies when it talks. Prejudice is a sin that needs to be conquered by all. If we can conquer this we will probably be victorious, for truly the proverb is correct: “conquer your passions and you conquer the whole world.” There is little or no hope for the Christian who judges matters before getting all the facts and condemns others in violation of the principle: “doth our law judge any man, before it hear him, and know what he doeth?” (Jn. 7:51)

One must not confuse prejudice with “preference.” Just because we have likes and dislikes that are peculiar does not mean that we are pre-judging. Real prejudice is the abandonment of valid processes of correct reasoning that leads to sound conclusions. This, in turn, causes one to preclude the possibility of advancing knowledge beyond those conclusions. A prejudiced person always knows all there is to know about the matter.

Prejudice is one of the most vicious characteristics of humanity. In view of it, steadfastness against it is one of our greatest needs. But there are sacrifices involved in eliminating prejudice: the sacrifice of personal ambition for principle’s sake, the bridling of the tongue by eliminating from our vocabulary prejudicial statements, half-truths, “preacher” pronouncements that stigmatize brethren and assassinate character, and the wresting of Scripture. When will we learn that many souls in sadness will learn in the day of judgment that “behold, I thought” is the pavement that leads to hell? We must believe all that God says and do all that God says. The Jehoiakims of our day must cease their spiritual and mental pen-knifing of the word of God and put an end to all the common talk floating around. We are to prove all things and hold fast to what is good (1 Thess. 5:21). We are not to believe everyone that speaks, no matter what position he holds. Rather, we are to “try the spirits” (1 Jn. 4: 1). Concerning men, our Lord says, “doth our law judge any man, before it hear him, and know what he doeth? ” (Jn. 7:5 1) ” He that answereth a matter (i.e., returneth a word, jt) before he heareth it, it is a folly and shame unto him,” indeed! (Prov. 18:13)

How Prejudice Comes

Prejudice does not come through heredity, i.e., the transmission of characteristics from parent to offspring by means of genes in the chromosomes, or from characteristics inherited. genetically by an individual. Neither does prejudice come instinctively (inborn tendency to behave in a way characteristic of a species). Various publications in the field of psychology that deal with behaviorism point out that the following factors contribute to prejudice:

(1) Early impressions and experiences that mold our ideas, ideals and attitudes.

(2) The culture in which one lives. This would include the religious, the social, etc.

(3) Associations with people who are of the disposition to be closed-minded.

(4) False generalizations such as thinking that all Christians are radical because one or two are radical. Well might it be said: the problem with most folks is not their ignorance as much as knowing so many things that are not so!

Some Examples of Prejudice

Prejudice in spiritual matters is illustrated in Acts 4:13-22. Peter and John had to give an answer before Jewish leaders because they had healed a lame man. The Jews could not fault the miracle or fault the teaching that the miracle confirmed. Facts demanded that they accept both the miracle and the message, but prejudice dictated otherwise. They were commanded and ordered “not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.” We may be amazed at their prejudice, but remember that their tribe did not die out. As a matter of fact, instead of accepting the truth many such persons have been known to cancel their subscriptions to sound publications rather than accepting the truths they contain. Truly, “the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine. (2 Tim. 4:2).

Denominationalism thrives on prejudice. A few years back I was baptizing someone in the Gulf of Mexico after a worship period in Lecanto, Florida. Some sectarian people (young men who were swimming, actually) started berating us and when I rebuked them, they then started making fun of us. Since that time I have noticed that some brethren continue to sink to new lows in their denunciation of those who disagree with them. Some even are wont to compliment the denominational people on their agreeable spirit, cooperation and ability while condemning those of us who challenge their damnable doctrines. Such men will wake up in a devil’s lake of fire and brimstone because they have fought against doctrine and made fun of the truth of Jehovah. It does not please men to have to say this, but we had better wake up to the danger of prejudice in our lives, to the fact that the present “Christians in most denominations ” philosophy does not automatically make denominational people an alternate faith among true children of God (Eph. 4:4-6), and opposition to truth (whether among sectarians or brethren) makes one an opponent to the faith as that of Elymas himself (Acts 13:8-13). Need it be said that like Saul of Tarsus, these men’s opposition springs from ignorance and unbelief fed by their prejudice?

Prejudice In Others And Its Results

Prejudice is a dangerous leaven that destroys even the vessel that contains it and contaminates all who come in contact with it. There is littleness and meanness about prejudice that genuine wisdom cannot endure. Knowing full well that the complete warning of the matters now presented will not be sufficiently recognized in our day of a divided church and party spirit, I offer them with some hope.

(1) Family ties sometimes create prejudice. John the Baptist struck hard at the stubborn sins of the people of his day with vigorous denouncement. His words were sharp and cutting, but they cut to the heart of their prejudices as they called for fruit worthy of repentance. This fire and brimstone preacher cried out, saying, “begin not to say within yourselves, we have Abraham our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham” (Lk. 3:8). The people of John’s audience could not see that family ties (Abraham’s seed) did not eliminate personal accountability for sin (Ezek. 18:4-20).

Many people in denominationalism still move upon this basis. Some in the church are doing the same thing. There is not a single nitch to be found anywhere in heaven on the basis of family clan, literally or spiritually. Sometimes members of one’s personal family (in total disregard for honesty, decency and the word of God) have acted with impunity and maliciousness, while at the same time thinking that being a member “of the family” grants them immunity. In the spiritual realm brethren have been known to act in the most unchristian manner because of spiritual family ties (God’s family, the church) and geographical influences. They are striking examples of the worse phases of the “party spirit” which blinds to truth, hardens from conviction, destroys tenderness. Prejudices make cruelty and spiritual crime impossible. We can’t be wrong, we belong to the Church of Christ. Scarcely any evil force has exerted in the times in which we live so baneful an influence.

(2) Jealousy sometimes creates prejudice. My mind goes back nineteen hundred years to the town of Antioch of Pisidia. Paul and Barnabas have preached in the synagogues. Some are receptive (Acts 13:43-44). The next Sabbath presented a different and terrible situation. “But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming” (Acts 13:45).

Look at the rocks of heartache and sadness that have been scattered on the highways of life that have resulted from jealousy. The Bible and history alike are filled with such examples.

(3) Supposition sometimes creates prejudice. Paul’s voyage to Rome was preceded by events precipitated by suppositions that festered into prejudice. Prejudice caused the Jews to falsely charge Paul with having taken a Greek into the temple and defiling it (Acts 21:28). This false charge would never have been made if supposition had not entered into the picture. The accusers had “supposed” that Paul had taken Trophimus the Ephesian into the temple because they had earlier seen them together in the city. How much trouble would be eliminated if somehow, by some miracle, all our suppositions could be wiped out. “But, I thought” is still heard today as justification for sinful actions. The Bible still says “prove all things.”

As for the fruits of prejudice, their numbers are legion. There is blind indifference (Matt. 13:14-15), mockery (Matt. 13:54-57), dishonesty (Matt. 28:11-15; Acts 13:6-11), and much more.

Who Is Effected By Prejudice?

If the object of the prejudice is a person, he becomes the victim! How difficult it is not to become bitter and disillusioned. But some have and are known to have “quit the Church” because of it. In our self-righteousness we condemn these discouraged ones for their apostasy in our attempts to justify our own placing of offences before them. Both the offender and the offended stand condemned. The words of the Lord in Matthew 18:5-7 should be committed to memory by each child of God.

Some of those affected react by becoming aggressive and by lashing out at all who give indication of prejudicial action. Show me the preacher or Bible class teacher who has not felt, at one time or another, the sting of prejudice and I’ll show you a person who is not preaching and teaching the whole counsel of God (Lk. 6:26). Young preachers, listen to me (for I have been there): do not seek revenge for abuses heaped upon you as a fruit of prejudice. Smother your hurt and turn the other cheek. Just keep on preaching the truth wherever brethren will let you preach, and wherever you can by keeping in mind that one cannot neglect his responsibility before God. Besides, vengeance belongeth to the Lord (Rom. 12:19). Learn this now and you will have fewer sleepless nights and less gnawing at the lining of your stomach. Some older preachers need to heed this advice too.

Some victims are guilty of resorting to compromise and appeasement. Though they know exactly what is going on in the brotherhood or within the local church, rather than be labeled or stir the water, they remain silent as a tomb.

How sad. The fruits of the assassinators of character keep enlarging because too many will not honestly face up to the prejudice that has permeated their lives like gangrene.

Look at the subject himself. His personal prejudice pours forth thorns and thistles, for out of the heart proceed evil thoughts (Matt. 9:4). There cannot be sweet water pouring forth from a fountain that is corrupt (Jas. 3:11). Denominational people have proliferated books that were designed to attack Christians unmercifully (Campbellism Exposed, A Review of Campbellism, etc.). Sectarians have said in debate (as they condemn us to hell), “I know of only three things born of water: a tadpole, a mosquito and a ‘Campbellite.”‘ Most of us have been accused of not believing in the Holy Spirit because we opposed Calvinism, teach water salvation because we advocate baptism for the remission of sins, etc.

Our brethren’s prejudices have been known to surface too. “You’re an anti,” “top Water,” “do nothingers,” “legalists,” “too dogmatic,” etc. Yes, the sin of prejudice lurks in the dark corners of many a heart. Modern language labels it “politics.”

What Can We Do About It?

First of all make an honest effort at self-examination (2 Cor. 13:5). Recognize your own prejudices (we all have some, whatever be the degree of them) and strive to eradicate them. If you cannot rid yourself of them, then do not act on them. Encourage others to do the same. It takes a wise man to know when he is fighting for a principle, or merely defending a prejudice. In short, don’t air your prejudices; smother them. Experience has shown that brethren have a lot to say about the need for preachers, but then turn right around and nail them to the cross of prejudice.

Christians as soldiers of the cross are to be steadfast in the face of prejudice, resisting it at all times. He is to be unmoveable in all things that are absolutely right and cannot be wrong. Through the ages this admirable quality has always been approved, appreciated, and applauded by the sons of men. Prejudicial persons will not deter steadfast Christians for a single moment. In the face of joy or grief, prosperity or poverty, or acceptance or prejudicial rejection, we are to exemplify the virtue of opposing all error and supporting all truth.

In 1777 a baby boy was born in the commonwealth of Virginia. At an early age, he along with his parents moved to the commonwealth of Kentucky. While yet in his early adult years he became widely known as a fluent, powerful, and adept orator. He eventually became a congressman, and sometime later Secretary of State of our United States. Eventually he had ambitions to become president. On one occasion a bill came before Congress which involved Texas and the servitude of slavery. He was informed by this political advisors that if he voted a certain way in regard to the bill he should never expect to become president. Henry Clay, the aspiring statesman, turned to his counselors and stated, “I had rather be right than President.” How badly do our brethren need to know the value of sacrifice of personal ambition for principle’s sake! No prejudice has ever been able to prove itself in the court of reason.

Just as a river is not turned into light and power until a dam is placed across it, so no life ever grows great until it is steadfastly focused, dedicated, and disciplined. There is a dire need in the church in our generation for men of conviction. Whether in regard to people or principle, there has never been a greater need for steadfastness in the service of the Savior.

Guardian of Truth XXIX: 22, pp. 675-676, 693, 695
November 21, 1985