Truth Magazine

By Larry Ray Hafley

Nothing is wrong with the church of Christ as de-signed, defined and described in the Bible. Men, though, have criticized God’s people throughout the ages. This criticism is not confined to those that are “aliens … and strangers . . . (who are) without God” (Eph. 2:12; 2 Cor. 10:10; 3 In. 9, 10). “False brethren” secretly, privately bring in their “damnable heresies” in order to draw away disciples after themselves (Acts 20:28-32; Gal. 2:4, 5; 2 Pet. 2:1; 2 Cor. 11:13-15). This will be discussed in later segments of this series.

However, in this first installment, we shall note some “common complaints” against the church of the Lord. Observe the chart on the next page.

There are many others, of course, but these are some of the complaints with which Christians are most familiar.

“Water Salvation”

“The Church Of Christ believes water is their Savior, but Baptists believe in ‘blood salvation.”‘ If one dares to say what Jesus and the apostles said about the essentiality of water baptism “for the remission of sins,” he surely will be charged with believing in “water salvation” (Mk. 16:16; Acts 2:38; 1 Pet. 3:21). Should one, in order to avoid and avert the stigma of “water salvation,” cease to preach the truth? “God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar” (Rom. 3:4). Let men say what they will. Let them rant, rave and rail against the revelation of God. After the Christian and the critic are dead, the word of God will still say, “Arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord” (Acts 22:16). “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved” will stand when the world is on fire! Do not be dismayed or discouraged by the taunting words of men that are mere sounds in the air. They will perish with using, “but the word of the Lord endureth forever” (I Pet. 1:25). If you are deterred and defeated by the cry of “water salvation,” if you allow it to dissuade, distract, and destroy you, the word of Christ will convict and condemn you in that last, great day, “but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever” (I In. 2:17).

Since Baptists believe water baptism is essential to membership in a Baptist Church, would it be fair to charge them with “water membership”? Should we say Christians believe in “blood membership” in the body of Christ but Baptists believe in “water membership” (Acts 20:28; Eph. 2:16)? Baptists would not consider that to be a fair assessment of their position. Just because water baptism is necessary to be a member of the Baptist Church does not prove they believe in “water membership,” as opposed to the blood of Christ. Likewise, just because water baptism is necessary for salvation (Mk. 16:16), does not prove we believe in “water salvation,” as opposed to salvation by the blood of Christ (Rom. 6:3, 4; Rev. 1:5; Acts 22:16).

“Don’t Believe In Old Testament”

This charge arises whenever Christians “rightly di-vide the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15). Children of God believe every “jot and title” of the Old Testament. We believe a great fish swallowed Jonah because the word of God says so. We believe the children of Israel walked through the Red Sea on dry land because the word of God says they did. The same thing is true with every-thing else recorded in the Bible. We believe it all, but because we teach the truth; namely, that the Old Testament is not our authority, it is “slanderously reported” that we do not believe in the Old Testament (Eph. 2:11-16; Col. 2:14-16).

Jesus the Christ now has “all authority” in heaven and on earth (Matt. 28:18). We hear “him that speaketh from heaven” (the Lord Jesus), not “him that spake on earth” (Moses; Heb. 12:25). Do our critics follow the law of Moses, or are they under the law of Christwhich? If they are under the law of Moses, “Christ is become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are justified by the law; ye are fallen from grace” (Gal. 5:4). If they are not under the law of Moses, but are under the law of Christ, shall we charge that they “do not believe in the Old Testament”?

Those who make the charge do not offer the blood of bulls and goats. They do not slay lambs in their worship services. Shall we say, then, “they do not believe in the Old Testament”? They do not observe the passover of Exodus 12. Why not? Is it because they” do not believe in the Old Testament”?

“The Church Of Christ has a `head’ salvation. They do not believe in the work of the Holy Spirit on the heart.” Because we do not believe that repentance, remission and redemption are accompanied by shouting and shaking and by jumping and jerking, we are charged with not believing in the Holy Spirit’s work in the plan and process of pardon. Because we do not believe that conviction and conversion are carnal convulsions, we are accused of not believing in the Holy Spirit.

The Spirit convicts the convert and sanctifies the sinner (Jn. 16:8; 2 Thess. 2:13). He does it through the word and teaching of “the apostles’ doctrine” as set forth in the New Testament (Jn. 8:32; 17:17, 20; 2 Thess. 2:15). “Now when they heard this (the word of the Holy Spirit, Acts 2:4), they were pricked in their heart” (Acts 2:37). This word is addressed to the mind, the heart of man (“blinded minds” equals “blinded hearts”  Ephesians 4:18; 2 Corinthians 4:4). The righteousness of God which is by faith says, “The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy hearts: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:8, 17). That “word: that is in the “heart” is the word that is “in their minds” (Hebrews 8:10; 10:16). It is placed there by the Holy Spirit through the word of truth, the gospel of our salvation (Ephesians 1:13; James 1:18; 1 Corinthians 14:37; John 16:8; 17:17, 20; 2 Thessalonians 2:13; Hebrews 10:15)

Those who would convince us that we “do not believe in the Holy Spirit in conversion,” attempts to do so by using oral, spoken words. They address their arguments to our heads, to our minds. What is the matter? Do they not believe in the Holy Spirits work in the teaching of folks like us? Are they not trying to use “head knowledge” to convince us that a “head knowledge salvation” is wrong? Why do they not rely on the Holy Spirit to convict us? Why do they make their appeal with preached, spoken words? Is it because that they “do not believe in the work of the Holy Spirit”?

Whats Wong with The Church of Christ

Common Complaints:

“Water Salvation”

“Don’t Believe in O.T.”

“Don’t Believe in H.S. Conversion”

“Don’t Believe in Miracles”

“Think They’re Only Ones Saved”

“David Had Music, They Don’t”

“Think Church Is Their Savior”

“Started By Alexander Campbell”

“Salvation By Works”

“Condemn Everybody Else”

Why are These Charges Rarely Heard??

“Dont Believe in Miracles”

This false charge is hurled against the church of the Lord because Christians use the Bible to show that men today do not work miracles by the Spirit of God as they did in the New Testament (I Corinthians 13:8-10; Mark 16:17-20; Hebrews 2:4). As stated above, we believe every miracle in the Bible.

Do Pentecostals walk on water as Jesus did? Do they feed thousands of people with five loaves and two fishes? Do they raise the dead? Some claim they do. I have begged Pentecostal preached to take just one little step, length wise across a baptistery, but none has ever done so. I have pleaded with them to raise just one person from the grave. In debate, I asked a Pentecostal preacher to feed 500 (not 5,000) who were in attendance with five loaves and two fish, but he refused. Did he not “believe in miracles”?

God once made a man from the dust of the ground (Gen. 2:7), but he no longer does so. Men are now born according to God’s law of nature and procreation. No one doubts that God could make a man from the dust of the ground; no one denies that he made Adam from the dust of the earth. Pentecostals acknowledge this and they recognize that God no longer forms men in this way. Do they, therefore, “not believe in miracles”?

I have asked several Pentecostal preachers if their wives came from one of their ribs. (I always glance at their wives in the audience as I ask the question!) I ask them if they can provide a wife for a man by taking one of the man’s ribs. I ask them if they know of any man today whose wife used to be a rib. The answer is always the same, “No.” Does that mean that they do not believe in miracles? No, it simply means that God, though he could perform such miracles as he once did in the Bible, now no longer does so. Likewise.

“David Had Music; They Don’t”

Yes, David used instruments of music in worship (Psa. 149:3; 150:3, 4). So, because he did, we should, too. Well, David offered animal sacrifices (Psa. 20:3; 51:19). Should they do so because David did? David had seven wives, and the Bible says that he took more (2 Sam. 3:5; 5:13). Is there a Baptist Church that will allow its preacher to have seven wives? David did! David, acting by Divine authority, killed some of his enemies (1 Chron. 14:14-17). Because David did so, may we do so today in the same manner (1 Sam. 17; 2 Cor. 10:3-5)?

“Think They’re The Only Ones Saved”

You have heard all of the snide jokes designed to show that the “Church of Christ believes they’re the only ones who are going to be saved.” Is Christ the only Savior (Jn. 14:6; 1 Cor. 8:6)? Suppose a Buddhist said to a Baptist, “You believe your Savior is the only Savior.” Would a Baptist take offense at that? No, he would simply attempt to teach the truth on the matter (Matt. 28:18; Acts 4:12). Let us do the same. There is no need to be ashamed, no need to apologize, no need to compromise and no need to deny the truth. Let us do the same.

The church, the saved, is the body of Christ (Eph. 1:20-23; Col. 1:18,24). One drinks, participates, in the fellowship of the Spirit, in the body of Christ (1 Cor. 12:13; Eph. 2:16, 19-22). There is “but one body,” or church of Christ (Rom. 12:4, 5; 1 Cor. 12:20). At least, that is the testimony of Scripture “There is one body” (Eph. 4:4). Since the body is the church (Col. 1:18, 24), and there is “but one body,” there is but one church! “And he (Christ) is the Savior of the body,” “the church” (Eph. 1:22, 23; 2:16; 4: 4; 5:23). One may as well be ashamed and make fun of the one and only Savior as to be ashamed and poke fun at his one and only church, the body he has sanctified and purchased with his own blood (Acts 20:28; Eph. 5:25, 26). “And he is the Savior (the one and only Savior LRH) of the body” (the one and only body  Eph. 1:22, 23; 4:4) Will someone in denominationalism cast aspersion against the fact that Jesus is the only Lord and Savior? Then why object to the saving of his only body, the church?

“Started By Alexander Campbell”

At one time or another, if you have attempted to convert people, you may have heard that “Alexander Campbell `started’ the Church of Christ.”

Nearly 1,800 years before Alexander Campbell was born, the New Testament spoke of the body or church of Christ. Men and women were added to it (Acts 2:47; 8:12; Col. 1:13). The church suffered persecution (Acts 8:1). Therefore, Alexander Campbell could not have “`started’ the church of Christ.” The Holy Spirit said, “The churches of Christ salute you” (Rom. 16:16). Whether Martin Luther, Joseph Smith or Alexander Campbell founded a church or not, it is certain that they did not “start the church of Christ.” Jesus did that all by himself  he did not need the help of those men (Matt. 16:18)!

There is nothing that I believe, teach or practice in religious matters that had its origin with either Alexander Campbell, Alexander Graham Bell or Alexander the Great. If there is, what is it? Baptism “for the remission of sins” (Acts 2:38)? Weekly Lord’s supper (Acts 20:7)? Singing (Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16)? Giving on the first day of the week (1 Cor. 16:2)? The virgin birth (Matt. 1; Lk. 1)? Churches in certain geographical areas referred to as “churches of Christ” (Rom. 16:16; 1 Cor. 1:2; Gal. 1:2)? Whenever and wherever one obeys the gospel of Christ he is added by the Lord to his body (Acts 2:47; Col. 1:13; 1 Cor. 12:13). That process did not begin with Alexander Campbell!

“Salvation By Works”

“The Church of Christ believes in salvation by works, but Baptists believe salvation is by faith.” The New Testament clearly teaches that salvation is by grace through faith (Eph. 2:8). Salvation is “not of works” (Eph. 2:9; Gal. 2:16; Titus 3:5). One cannot save himself. God is our Savior (John 2:9; Titus 2:13).

Salvation is:

Not By Works Of The Law Of Moses  Gal. 2:16.

Not By Works Of The Flesh  Gal. 5:19-21.

Not By Works Of The Devil  1 Jn. 3:8.

Not By Our Works  2 Tim. 1:9.

Not By Works Of Darkness  Eph. 5:11.

The grace of God and the blood of Christ are the basis, the grounds of salvation. Faith, repentance, confession and baptism are the terms, the conditions, with which man must comply in order to be forgiven (Mk. 16:16; Acts 2:38; Rom. 10:9, 10). The blessings and benefits of the grace and blood of Christ are conditionally received. Jesus is “the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him” (Heb. 5:9). “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father” (Matt. 7:21). Justification is by faith, but “not by faith only” (Rom. 5:1; Jas. 2:24).

Even those who charge that we believe in “salvation by works,” acknowledge that one must believe and repent before he can be saved On. 8:24; Acts 2:38; 17:30; Heb. 11:6). These are “works” that one must do in order to receive God’s free gift of salvation (Rom. 1:5; 5:1; 6:17, 18, 23; 10:9, 10; 16:26). Faith is a “work” On. 6:29). Is it a “work of God,” or is it a work of men? One might say that baptism is a “work.” Is it a work of the law of Moses? Is it a work of the flesh? Is it a work of the devil? When these questions are answered, the confusion should be dispelled with him (Acts 10:35).

“Condemn Everybody Else”

“The Church of Christ always condemns other churches; they’re always running down other religions.” Are our critics condemning us and running us down when they make this charge? They say we are “always `knocking’ other churches.” Are they “knocking” us when they say this? If it is wrong to condemn others, are they wrong to condemn us for condemning?

Disciples who do not condemn false doctrines and false religions are deficient and derelict in their duty. The Holy Spirit tells us to “cast down” reasonings or arguments that are contrary to truth (2 Cor. 10:3-5; Titus 1:9-13; 1 Jn. 4:1,6; Rev. 2:2). If you have a preacher who will not do the work of “condemning other religions,” you have the wrong preacher (I Tim. 1:3; 4:1-3,6,16; 2 Tim. 1:13; 2:2; 4:2-4).

Do Protestants “condemn, knock and run down” the Jewish religion when they tell a Jew that he is unsaved and that he must “believe on the Lord Jesus Christ”? Again, the answer to that question should dissipate their objection against Christians. Truth by its very nature, condemns error; obedience condemns disobedience. This is how Noah “condemned the world” (Heb. 11:7).

“Have it your own way” religions are not of God (Matt. 15:8,9,13). The religion of Jesus the Christ is the most rigid, inflexible, unbending, uncompromising system ever known (Jn. 8:24; 14:6; Acts 4:12). It allows no competition and tolerates no opposition (1 Cor. 8:6; 2 Cor. 10:3-5; 1 Tim. 1:3; 6:3, 4). “I, even I, am the Lord; and beside me there is no Savior” (Isa. 43:11). “No man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (Jn. 14:6). “Neither is there salvation in any other” (Acts 4:12). The “devout and honorable” of this world, the good, moral persons, and the religious who do “many wonderful works” are all lost and rejected (Acts 10:2, 22; 13:50). “If they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isa. 8:20). “Whosoever transgresseth and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God” (2 Jn. 9). “Teach no other doctrine” (1 Tim. 1:3).

If, on the one hand, a man does not accept the exclusive, ironclad, absolute nature of these solemn, settled facts, he has no business attempting to be a teacher in Israel. If, on the other hand, one says he believes and knows the certainty of these inviolate precepts and principles, he is duty bound before God and men to preach, press and present them “with all authority,” “with all boldness,” and with “great plainness of speech” (Titus 2:15; Acts 4:29; 2 Cor. 3:12). To do otherwise is the basest betrayal, the most terrible treachery, rivaling that of Judas Iscariot himself.

Why Are These Charges Rarely Heard?

Why are the criticisms above heard so infrequently in our day? I am not certain that I know all the reasons, but let me state one or two for your reflection. First, the denominations are no longer characterized by conviction. They waver and careen “as children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine.” In days gone by, most Baptists believed that the Baptist Church was the church built by Jesus. They believed that the Baptist Church was the New Testament church. That is generally not true today among Baptists of our day. Hence, they are less dogmatic, less combative, less confrontational. Second, brethren, members of the Lord’s church and gospel preachers, are less aggressive, less militant than they once were. This is a shame and a disgrace. There is no need to be abusive, cutting and unkind, but there is a crying need for men of faith and uncompromising conviction who will “preach the word; be instant in season, reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine” (2 Tim. 4:2).

When men did this work in that way in the New Testament, there was a firestorm of opposition; there was “much contention” (1 Thess. 2:2). Cities were stirred as passions were ignited with unbelief and a love for darkness rather than light(Acts 13:50; 17:5-7; 18:12; 19:23). “There arose no small stir about that way.” As someone said, everywhere Paul went he either started a riot or a revival. Is our preaching like that of the New Testament in its bold, aggressive, uncompromising militancy? The faith of Christ is distinctive. It is unique. Like God himself, “there is none other.” Is its unique, distinctive nature and quality made crystal clear today? Are counterfeit systems of religion held up and contrasted with the pristine purity and power of God? Are the doctrines and commandments of denominationalism being exposed as frauds? Are they being compared with the truth, weighed in the balances and found wanting? It was done in the New Testament (Acts 17:2,3,16,17,23f). “Thou hast tried them that say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars” (Rev. 2:2). Is it being done where you worship? Why not (Phil. 4:9)?

Guardian of Truth XXXVII: 20, p. 16-20
October 21, 1993

By John F. Hughbanks

Because of our human nature, man from time to time needs to be reassured and encouraged in all facets of his life. Mankind can find help from different sources, both good and bad. I doubt anyone reading this article has not been discouraged at some time in their life.

We all feel frustrated at times and maybe get to the point of saying, “What’s the use? Why go on and keep trying?” Or we might develop an attitude that no one else is trying so “Why should I?” In being in such a state we might feel justified in cutting back on work we need to be doing more than ever.

In times like these we need encouragement to go on and do our job even when others aren’t fulfilling theirs completely or not at all. If we were to define and put in words the meaning of encouragement, it might be, “to give courage, hope, or confidence, to give support to; help.” (Webster’s New World Dictionary). What I would like to do in this article is to note some ways we can be encouraged to go on and be about our Fathers business.

I believe that mankind needs to recognize first and foremost that God cares for you and does not want you to be discouraged all the time. Think for a moment with me about the following examples we can learn from and draw courage and confidence from. From Genesis 21:10-21, Abraham was told by God to listen to Sarah’s voice and cast out the bond-woman and his child by her. This would be a grievous thing for anyone to do, but God promised and reassured Abraham that good would come out of this. God promised Abraham that Ishmael would become a great nation. We see the fulfilling of this in the Arab states today. I know it also had to be discouraging to Hagar as she traveled with her son in the Wilderness of Beersheba, no longer in the midst of security of numbers to protect her and then running out of water from the skins. When the water was gone she sat opposite the boy and said, “Let me not see the death of the boy” (v. 16). As she sat in the depth of despair, while lifting her voice, crying, and weeping, feeling deserted and alone, God heard the voice of the lad. Again we see God’s care for those afflicted by circumstances. In verses 17 and 18 we see an angel of God calling to Hagar out of heaven, and saying to her, “What ails you, Hagar? Fear not, for God has heard the voice of the lad where he is. Arise, lift up the lad and hold him with your hand, for I will make him a great nation.”

We can glean many lessons from this account, but the one we need to see here is that regardless of what situation you might be forced to deal with, there is a God of heaven who cares and is concerned always for your state of being. You are not alone, you are not! God’s umbrella of concern is always covering you. Our Father gives us encouragement through many avenues, if we just reach for them, including instructions and encouragement through the scriptures, both old and new. He gave us a channel to talk to him through prayer. We can gain encouragement by association with those of like precious faith and as we worship on the Lord’s day (Acts 20:7).

Our Lord is a constant companion and friend for the lonely pilgrim on his journey of life experiences. He is an encouraging and protecting God. Reflect with me a moment from Hebrews 13:5b-6. “. . . For He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ So we may boldly say: `The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”‘ (cf. Deut. 31:6, 8; Psa. 118:6)

In society today there are those who would prosecute us when we stand for the truth, when we practice what I Peter 4:11 teaches  “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God.” When we learn God’s will in the question of whether or not to be involved in the social gospel appeals, the teachings on marriage divorce and remarriage, or the uniqueness of the church we will encounter those who will not stand for sound doctrine (Isa. 30:10). Paul warned Timothy of those who would be guilty of this in his day (2 Tim. 4:3), so it should not amaze us that this same thing can and does happen in our generation.

To the warrior (soldier) of Christ, fighting the fight of faith, he is our strength and shield. Let us learn the lesson of old time by the King of Israel as David stated, “But you, Oh Lord, are a shield for me, my glory and the One who lifts up my head” (Ps. 3:3).

Yes my friends, on this storm-filled sea of life we will be rocked and discouraged, but God will encourage us and protect us. Be not afraid, God will lighten our paths and give us encouragement.

Up to this time I have addressed my thoughts primarily toward those who are God’s elect (those saints and faithful brethren in Christ, cf. Acts 2:47,38). But there are those who have never obeyed Jesus as the New Testament outlines. They are as Isaiah describes  separated from God, his face hidden from you and your hands are defiled, your fingers with evil or iniquity: your lips have spoken lies (Isa. 59:1-3).

Even in this state of enslaved sinner, he gives pardon and release from the shackles that bind him. Our Saviour gives peace, salvation, assurances of eternal life. This my friends and brethren is the greatest encouragement anyone can possess (Matt. 11:28-30; Mk. 16:16; Rev. 2:10). “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27; cf. Phil. 4:7)

I want to change our thoughts from what God will do to encourage us to areas each of us are charged to be doing toward our service to God and our fellow man. As Christians, we have a duty (command) to encourage men, women, and children to stay strong. Your next question might be; How do we accomplish this? First, as Jesus taught by precept and example that persecutions will come and be prepared for them (John 15:18-16:4). We who might be stronger in the faith have an obligation not only to warn but to encourage the weaker ones (Gal. 6:2) “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” But my brethren this is not a one way street. Both the “strong” and the “weak” are to encourage one another.

I believe we can see even our Messiah desired the sympathetic understanding of his fellow man. Jesus, even while divine on earth took on a fleshly body (John 1:14; Luke 22:42-45; Matt. 26:40), needed encouragement for the ordeal awaiting him. After his prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, he came to the disciples and found them asleep, and said to Peter, “What, could you not watch with me one hour?” If our Saviour desired it as good and needful, shouldn’t we also look upon it in the same way?

It has been my experience that any person, whether leader or not needs encouragement. Not only during times of hardship and persecutions but also the good times. When was the last time you encouraged your elders, deacons, preacher, Bible class teachers or anyone who takes a lead in the local congregation. Believe me brethren, they need it as you need it, so do it!

Secondly, the older should encourage the younger. Toward the end of David’s life he instructed Solomon concerning certain things and encouraged him (1 Kgs. 2:1-4). David wanted to impress on his son that he should walk in God’s paths and do his will. If Solomon did this, the kingdom would prosper. If not, it would face vast problems. We also read of Paul encouraging young Timothy, assuring him of love and prayers (nothing is more heartening and needed, 2 Tim. 1:2-3). To the older brethren of the kingdom, you know you won’t be here forever. Brothers and sisters fulfill your obligation (or in many cases continue doing it) toward those who are younger. They need your wisdom and guidance. They need to hear of life experiences that you overcame and triumphed over. Young people need the encouragement that you can offer. Please share it with them so they can be stronger and live for Christ.

The flip side is also true. Thirdly, the young should encourage the older or the aged. May it never be said of any young person the latter part of this verse: “A wise son makes a glad father; But a foolish son is the grief of his mother” (Prov. 10:1).

Young folks can encourage their parents by honor and obedience to the things taught them. I’m reminded of the Chinese culture and I’m sure of others which put great stock in the older. Respect and reverence are part of the young people’s attitudes toward the older wise family members. They realize that a vast fountain of wisdom is there to be tapped. Any reasonable person today would benefit from such. As young adults or children, society can benefit from godly advice. From 1 Kings 12:6, 13 we learn that Rehoboam didn’t listen to the elders of the kingdom and as a result the United Kingdom split into two kingdoms. What a sad account! Young people, listen to godly wisdom from older brethren. It not only will benefit you in the years to come but also encourage and fulfill a need as older brethren need to feel appreciated, loved and wanted.

While God encourages us and our brethren, also we need to remember with this encouragement, help, hope and confidence comes our turn to encourage ourselves. This might sound strange to many, but we have an obligation to prime our pumps also. If we aren’t very careful in our troubles we can start to think that everyone else should help us and I don’t need to do anything myself to overcome discouragement. We can get into a self-pity party, become over sensitive and go off on a tantrum or some sort of depression. If this happens we have asked and expect too much of our fellow servants. It is the responsibility of each Christian to encourage us and get us on the track, no matter how long it takes. But once we are on the track (right course) we are obligated to run ourselves in order to help others that have been temporarily derailed by frustration or hardship. The general admonitions are these: “Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong” (1 Cor. 16:13). Consider the passage in the book of Ephesians written by Paul. “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might” (Eph. 6:10). Let each of us individually fulfill our obligation to this end.

My brethren, discouragement is a reality in life. If you live long enough you will get your share of it, but the reassuring news is that with the proper attitude we can overcome it. Remember these words and believe them always. “No temptation has overtaken you except such as common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able; but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it” (1 Cor. 10:13).

Friends, use all the avenues available to you to over-come discouragements and you will find it easier to be faithful to God. He gives the tools, pick them up and overcome. God loves you (John 3:16). He proved it. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Draw encouragement from that. Our brethren are concerned. Draw strength from this source. Ask for help and I believe you will see flood-gates of help delivered to you for your problem. “Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Rev. 2:16b).

Guardian of Truth XXXVII: 20, p. 21-22
October 21, 1993

By Wilson Adams

Those who know me well are aware of my love for the old Andy Griffith Show. Many a late afternoon is spent mentally escaping the hubbub of the Washington-Baltimore corridor for the simpler life of Mayberry. (And by your smile I detect that I’m not the only one.)

My all time favorite episode is Man in a Hurry. Remember? (You’re smiling again!) It’s about the uptight businessman whose car breaks down on a Sunday afternoon in Mayberry. His frustrations mount at the slow pace of townspeople who refuse to be rushed until finally he learns that life is more than feverish work and excessive hurry. It’s a lesson many need to learn, including me.

And I did. One moment I was whizzing along Interstate 64 in eastern Kentucky on a quick trip from Washington D.C. to Louisville and the next I was sitting on the side of the road thanks to a fuel pump which decided to “expire.” (If you’ve ever been in that position you know it’s a pretty helpless feeling.) The exit sign ahead said: “Grayson.” I got out and walked towards town.

Thanks to a fellow with a tow-truck, which had seen better days, we limped into the Chevy garage. I soon learned that the Chevy dealer in Grayson is the place where men-folk gather on Monday mornings for coffee and talk about politics, the Cincinnati Reds and whatever else is on people’s minds. “Any of you know where Kehoe, Kentucky is  up on the Carter-Greenup County line?” I asked. Several heads turned in my direction perhaps a bit wary of the stranger whose car bore Maryland plates but who seemed to be well versed in eastern Kentucky geography (it probably didn’t hurt that I still retained my Kentucky accent). “Why sure I know where Kehoe is,” said an older man born and raised in the county. He added, “My wife’s people are from Kehoe.” I replied, “Then you’ve no doubt heard of the Wamocks from Kehoe.” “Wamocks, sure I knew some of the Kehoe Wamocks,” he said with a touch of warmth. I then proceeded to tell him that my father-in-law was Weldon Warnock who grew up in those parts. (There is nothing that promotes acceptability any faster than when people learn that you know who they know.) Our conversation from that point on was especially pleasant.

My car was finally repaired and it was time to leave. The bill was presented and I pulled out the plastic I carry for just such emergencies. A funny look came over the face of the owner behind the counter. “Uh, we’re not set up to take credit cards,” he said. “Just cash or check.” Now that presented a problem since I hadn’t bothered to bring the checkbook and the small amount I had in cash wouldn’t begin to cover the bill.

I explained my dilemma. “No problem,” he said. “Just send me a check when you get back home.” “Say what?” I wasn’t sure I had heard him correctly. He repeated himself. I thanked him and offered my license that he might gain the needed information. He declined. “Don’t need to see that. Just drive careful and send me a check when you can.” And with a grateful smile, I did (both!).

On the road to Louisville later that thy I couldn’t help but be thankful of a few things, namely:

The value of a good name. Solomon said, “A good name is to be more desired than great riches.” It was good to be reminded that one’s reputation carries more clout than the finest credit card. (I might still be in Grayson if the “Warnock” name hadn’t been so well received.) Thanks Weldon, I owe you one!

That people still believe in people. I realize that businesses can’t always operate on the honor system (not and remain in business!) but it’s encouraging to know that sometimes people are willing to trust you anyway. I often think of my grandfather who never had much money but who had more credit than anyone. His word was his bond. He defined integrity. People believed in him and he believed in them. It is very apparent that Jesus lived that way, too.

The need to slow down. I love the verse in Psalms which says, “Be still and know that I am God” (46:10). I am impressed with the fact that as busy as Jesus was he was never hurried. He was never too busy to pray, or answer another question, or bounce a child on his knee. He illustrated in life that God wants us to be faithful, not frantic.

I’m aware that there are some Christians who equate spirituality with busyness and frugality of everything, including emotions. Possessed with the elder-brother syndrome (always uptight and overly stiff about everything including themselves), they feel that life is too serious to be wasted on such frivolous things as laughter and relaxation. (I know some preachers like that. Do you?) That’s sad. Please correct me if I’m wrong but didn’t Jesus enjoy periods of relaxation (Mk. 6:31-32)? And didn’t he attend festive gatherings On. 2)? And wasn’t he criticized by some who didn’t consider him to be serious enough (Matt. 11:19)?

Sometimes we get moving too fast. I’m convinced when such happens our spirituality suffers. I know mine does. That’s when I must listen again to the psalmist’s counsel, “Relax and know that I am God.”

It was Hugh Prather who wrote,

If I had only … forgotten future greatness and looked at the green things and the buildings and reached out to those around me and smelled the air and ignored the forms and the self-styled obligations and heard the rain on my roof and put my arms around my wife . . . perhaps it’s not too late.

My friend, don’t let the time become a tyrant rather than a friend. Don’t allow joy to become something to be done later. Slow down. Do it now. Schedule less and enjoy it more. Take a deep breath and gain a taste of life. And remember that our strength lies not in our hurried efforts and long hours but in our quietness and confidence in God.

And . . . should your travels take you through the hills of eastern Kentucky, stop in at Chevy dealer in Grayson and tell ‘um  “Weldon Warnock sent ya!” ct

Guardian of Truth XXXVII: 20, p. 13
October 21, 1993

By Donnie V. Rader

Near the end of his second missionary journey, Paul went to Corinth with the gospel of Christ. This seems like a most unlikely place to expect to find people interested in the gospel and therefore establish a church. Corinth was the commercial capital of Greece. It was a city of half a million people. It was filled with immorality. I am told that 1000 prostitutes served daily at a pagan temple in the city. It was the Las Vegas or Atlantic City of that day. Furthermore, Paul faced opposition as he attempted to instruct the Corinthians in the way of the Lord (Acts 18:6, 9,10).

However unlikely it may have seemed, many were converted and a church was established in Corinth. Let’s consider what we know about their conversion.

The Message

The message Paul preached was “Jesus is Christ” (Acts 18:5). Later, in writing to those who were converted, he said that when he came to Corinth, “I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified” (1 Cor. 2:2).

The word that was presented was not the wisdom of men (1 Cor. 2:1), but the testimony of God that their faith would be in God and not man (1 Cor. 2:5).

Paul said the gospel that he preached and they received was the death, burial and resurrection of Christ (1 Cor. 15:1-4).

These passages tell us that the message revealed who Jesus is, the sacrifice he made, the salvation that is available through him and how man must obey him.

The Response

How did the Corinthians respond? What did they do upon hearing the message? Obviously, there were some who turned a deaf ear (Acts 18:6). However, “many” did respond in obedience.

They heard the gospel (Acts 18:8). They believed the preaching about Jesus (Acts 18:8; 1 Cor. 15:1-4, 11). They repented of their sins. They turned from lives of sin to serve God. Later, in writing to these brethren, Paul listed fornicators, idolaters, adulterers, homosexuals, sodomites, covetous, drunkards, thieves, revilers and extortioners and said, “such were some of you” (1 Cor. 6:9-11, emphasis mine, DVR). They had changed; they had repented. They were baptized (Acts 18:8; 1 Cor. 15:29).

The Change (1 Cor. 6:9-11)

In becoming Christians, the Corinthians had to and did make some drastic changes in their lives. From this we learn:

1. The gospel of Christ can change the worst of lives. Some of those in the church at Corinth had been fornicators, others were homosexuals, some idolaters, some thieves and others were drunkards. Sin doesn’t get much worse than that. But, they changed! They stopped their practice of sin. If they could change and live right  anyone else can too.

2. The life they lived after obeying the gospel was different  it was a life unto God. After turning from their sins, they were instructed to give their lives to glorifying God (1 Cor. 6:20; 10:31), following Christ (I Cor. 11:1,3), walking worthy and living lives of a separate people (2 Cor. 6) and fearing God (2 Cor. 7:1).

3. Sin must cease when one becomes a Christian. True repentance demanded that their fornication, homosexuality, drunkenness, etc. stop! Notice again, that the text says, “such were some of you” (emphasis mine, DVR). Their continuing in sin was past tense.

All who come to God must cease their practice of sin. That includes those who live in adultery. If the practice of homosexuality must cease (meaning they must cease their sexual relationship), so must those who have committed adultery by remarrying (Matt. 19:9), i.e. thy must cease their sexual relationship.

The Results

Various terms and expressions are used to describe those who were converted by the gospel. These words tell us what they became by obedience to the gospel.

A church was established (1 Cor. 1:2). The term that is translated by the word church means the “balled out.” Thus they were called out of sin and darkness into the salvation and light.

They were sanctified which means they were separated from sin and unto God (1 Cor. 1:2; 6:11). The term saints also suggests this separation.

They were saved (1 Cor. 1:21; 15:2), washed (1 Cor. 6:11) and justified (1 Cor. 6:11). Consequently they gained the hope of eternal life (I Cor. 15:50-58).

You can be saved just like the Corinthians when you believe the same message, obey the same commands and make the same kind of changes. You will also receive the same results.

Guardian of Truth XXXVII: 20, p. 15
October 21, 1993