Truth Magazine

By Irvin Himmel

The text for this homily is John 8:31,32: “Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, if ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

A disciple is a learner. The Jews who were taught by John the Baptist were called John’s disciples (Jn. 3:25). The people who believed in Jesus and followed him were called disciples of Jesus (Jn. 18:1; 19:38). The Jews who were clinging to the law of Moses but refused to believe in Jesus considered themselves to be Moses’ disciples On. 9:28).

There is a pronounced difference between a disciple and a disciple indeed. The people who learned enough to believe in Jesus were considered his disciples, but the Lord said, “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples in-deed” The word “indeed” means “truly,’ “in reality,” or “most certainly.” One may be called a disciple without being that in reality.

1. To be a disciple indeed one must continue in the word of Christ. Some take the word of Christ lightly. They are not willing to be bound by the Lord’s teaching. They are determined to believe what seems good in their own eyes. They rely more on human wisdom than on the divine word. They follow Christ’s word only when it happens to coincide with their own preconceptions, notions, and thoughts. Paul taught that every thought is to be brought into captivity to the obedience of Christ (2 Cor. 10:5). He urged, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom” (Col. 3:16). Whether we respect and continue in the word of Christ or not, it will judge us in the last day (Jn. 12:48).

2. To be a disciple indeed one must love the Lord more than all else. Jesus said, “If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. And whosoever cloth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple” (Lk. 14:26,27). Immediately after these statements, our Master illustrated how we must be willing to count the cost. Many people are unwilling to pay the price required in true discipleship. They want to be disciples on their own terms, not the Lord’s terms. They are unwilling to take a stand for Christ and the truth if it means being criticized and ridiculed by friends, business associates, or relatives. No one is a true disciple unless he stands ready to part with anything or anyone that may come between him and the Savior. “So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple” (Lk. 14:33).
3. To be a disciple indeed one must bear fruit. Jesus spoke of himself as the true vine, the Father as the husbandman (vinedresser), and the disciples as branches growing in the vine. “1 am the vine, ye are the branches: he that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” He also said, “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples” (Jn. 15:1-8). To abide in Christ requires that his words abide in us. If we ignore his words and practice what he has not authorized in religion, we make ourselves unfruitful. We must keep his commandments to abide in his love On. 15:10).
4. To be a disciple indeed one must love others who are true disciples. Jesus said, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” On. 13:34,35). John wrote, “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also” (I Jn. 4:20,21) Love prompts true disciples to help each other. We do not help each other by condoning error, by sanctioning sin, and by defending unscriptural concepts. Paul strongly rebuked the brethren in Corinth for their sins because he loved them.
5. To be a disciple indeed one must persevere. The word of truth is misunderstood sometimes. People think we are being too hard when we preach the word just as it is writ-ten. In John 6:60, some thought what Jesus said was too hard to accept. “Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can bear it?” In verse 66 we read, “From that time many of this disciples went back, and walked no more with him.” They were finished with Jesus! This happens often today. Some cannot endure sound doctrine (2 Tim. 4:3). They are unwilling to do as did the disciples in Jerusalem who “continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers” (Acts 2:42). In some cases they feel so uncomfortable among true disciples that they take their leave and never return. Concerning such, John said, “They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us” (1 Jn. 2:19).

It is not enough for us to be called disciples of Jesus Christ. Let us demonstrate before others that we are his disciples indeed.

Guardian of Truth XXXVII: 9, p. 23
May 20, 1993

By Micky Galloway

Israel was commanded to teach their children (Deut. 6:6ff, 20ff). They were to teach them the law of God, to know God, and to fear him (Deut. 31:9-13). The observance of the Passover was to be a means of reminding their children of the great works of God (Exod. 12:24ff). So also were the twelve stones that Joshua set up in Gilgal as a memorial of God parting the Jordan River so that the people could enter the land of promise (Josh. 4:20ff). They were to teach their children so that they would not forget God (Deut. 6:10ff). This involved talking with their children as well as teaching by their example. Yet, we read in Judges 2:10, “And also all that generation were gathered unto their fathers: and there arose another generation after them, that knew not Jehovah, nor yet the work which he had wrought for Israel.”

We also are to teach our children. “And ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath; but nurture them in the chastening and admonition of the Lord” (Eph. 6:4). In a world where the minds of our children are influenced by the degenerate teaching of worldly minded people, we must ask, “What are we teaching our children?”

What Are We Teaching Our Children About God?

God is the creator of heaven and earth and as a divine creator he possesses all the attributes of deity (Gen. 1:1). As the apostle Paul declared the one, true God unto the Athenians in Acts 17, he declared that even though they worshiped in ignorance, God had made them to “seek God, if haply they might feel after him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us”(v. 27). The Athenians were then commanded to repent, implying that they were account-able to God even though they were ignorant of God (vv. 30-31). Whatever they were doing, it was displeasing to God and they needed to repent. Yes, they were under law to God or they would need no repentance (cf. Rom. 4:15).

Paul spoke of the goodness and severity of God (Rom. 11:22). God’s goodness is manifested in the sending of his Son to die for the sinner (Jn. 3:16; Rom. 5:8). His severity is also revealed by Paul when he said, “Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men” (2 Cor. 5:11; cf. Heb. 10:26-31). Examples of God’s righteous indignation

are numerous. It is this righteous God of goodness and severity before whom we all stand and give an account of our lives (Rom. 14:11-12). Let us speak of him with honor and reverence that our children might learn to fear him and love him (Psa. 111:9).

What Are We Teaching Our Children About Jesus
As the Son of God?

His coming fulfilled prophecies that were made from the beginning, revealing the eternal purpose of God in Christ Jesus (Gen. 3:15; 12:1-3; Eph. 3:10). Even his conception was a miracle (Isa. 7:14; Matt. 1:18-25). He came to offer salvation to a lost and dying world (Matt. 1:21; Lk. 19:10; I Tim. 1:15). What do we teach our children about why Jesus died? Oh yes, he died for our sins, but why was it necessary for Jesus to die for our sins? Do we teach our children how horrible sin is, to require the blood of Jesus? Do we teach them that the justice of God is seen in this sacrifice (Rom. 3:23-26)? Unfortunately, all that many children hear about Jesus is when something tragic occurs and the name of Jesus is uttered as a byword.

What Are We Teaching Our Children About the Bible?

It is the most wonderful and most available book in our age. Its message is from the mind of God (1 Cor. 2:10ff; cf. Jn. 12:49-50). It contains the words of life (Jn. 6:66-68; cf. Jn. 12:49-50). That word was delivered unto the apostles and recorded by them upon the pages of the New Testament (Jn. 17:8,14,18; Eph. 3:3). This message is all sufficient and complete (2 Tim. 3:16-17; Jude 3). It is revealed in such a way that it is understandable (Eph. 3:3; 5:17). We are commanded to read it, study it, and teach it unto others (2 Tim. 2:15; 2 Pet. 3:18; 1 Tim. 4:13; 2 Tim. 2:2).

Do our children see us spending time with this wonderful book? Do they hear it read and taught in our homes? Do they perceive our reverence and respect for the words of Almighty God? I will never forget the words of sister Lena Hope (wife of brother B.G. Hope). She said that while her children were just babies, she would tell them that the big old book on the table in the living room (the family Bible) was God’s book. It was different than their story books. It contained the words of God. Perhaps we are just too busy to impress upon young minds the importance of understanding the words of God. Yes indeed, we are teaching our children about the Bible.

What Are We Teaching Our Children

About Their Purpose In Life?

Ecclesiastes 12 teaches that children are to “remember thy Creator in the days of thy youth.” If parents are not living lives before their children emphasizing that their purpose in life is to “fear God and keep his commandments, ” how can we expect children to realize the purpose for living and remember the Creator (Eccl. 12:13-14)? It takes time to obey God’s commandments. Considering that life is short and time is limited, many have so misconstrued their values that they do not have time to visit or teach or pray or study (Jas. 4:14-16). These are so busy “making a living” that they don’t have time to make a life for themselves or their families. When we diligently lay up treasurers on this earth and we believe that our lives consist of what we possess, be not deceived, we are teaching our children the purpose in life, but it is not to “fear God and keep his commandments” (Matt. 6:19ff; cf. Lk. 12:15ff). Small wonder why many sons and daughters of Christians cannot find time to worship and serve God. They are worshipping and serving God, just as their parents taught them!

What Are We Teaching Our Children

About Respect For Authority?

It is no mystery that crime is at an all time high and schools have difficulty with rebellious students and yes, even churches are plagued with the introduction of unauthorized practices when children are not taught respect for God’s authority. Respect for authority begins in the home. Children must be taught to obey (Eph. 6:1-4). Sometimes that involves the rod of correction (Prov. 13:24; 19:18; 22:15; 23:13; 29:15). Notice what was to be done with a rebellious son under the law of Moses (Deus. 21:18ff). Unfortunately, many are not consistent in their teaching, but operate on the principal, “Do as I say, not as I do.” Our children are more perceptive than we think. They see our inconsistency and they are learning from our example.

What Are We Teaching Our Children

About the Church and Its Work?

Do our children ask on the Lord’s day whether or not we are going to church? My friends, this decision should have been made a long time ago (Heb. 10:25). It should be understood if it is time to assemble with the saints, we are going! Do our children understand why we have assembled? We have not come together to play or be entertained, but to worship God (Jn. 4:24). I have great admiration for the parents of children, who are teaching their children reverence for the occasion of worship and the distinctiveness of what the church is.

What Are We Teaching Our Children About Morality?

Oh, we may well teach against adultery and fornication, but dress our “sweet little Sally Mae” in attire that tempts everybody on the block to propose fornication (Matt. 5:32; 19:9; 1 Cor. 10:8; Prov. 7:10). We must teach our children regarding the permanence and sanctity of marriage and the home, but we must also help them understand what it means to “flee fornication” and to “abstain from all appearance of evil” (1 Cor. 6:18; 1 Thess. 5:22). There was a time when parents instructed their children that certain circumstances were to be avoided because “it just doesn’t look good.” We live in a time when people commit all kinds of “abomination” and are not “ashamed, neither could they blush” (Jeri 6:15). Let us accept soberly the responsibility to teach our children to behave and dress modestly that their lives will be an example of purity (1 Tim. 4:12).

Israel failed to properly teach their children and the next generation did not “know Jehovah, nor yet the work which he had wrought for Israel.” Therefore, they did that which was evil in the sight of Jehovah. We are teaching our children both verbally and by our example, but what are we teaching our children? Certainly, the next generation will tell.

In the words of Helen M. Young from the poem “Children Won’t Wait,”

. . I will not exchange this birthright for a mess of pottage called social position, or business or professional reputation, or a pay check. An hour of concern today may save years of heartache tomorrow. The house will wait, the dishes will wait, the new room can wait, but children won’t wait. . . . May I know that no other career is so precious, no other work so rewarding, no other task too urgent. May I not defer it nor neglect it, but by the Spirit accept it gladly, joyously, and by Thy grace realize that the time is short and my time is now. For children won’t wait.

When we diligently lay up treasurers on this earth
and we believe that our lives consist of what we possess, be
not deceived, we are teaching our children the purpose in life,
but it is not to ‘fear God and keep his commandments’ (Matt. 6:19ff; cf.
Lk. 12:15ff). Small wonder why many sons and daughters of Christians cannot
find time to worship and serve God. They are worshipping and serving God,
just as their parents taught them!”

Guardian of Truth XXXVII: 9, p. 14-15
May 20, 1993

By Ron Halbrook

In May of 1992 brother Olen Holderby of Lakeport, California wrote to the elders of the church of Christ in West Columbia, Texas, commending them for exposing the errors of Don Givens in Hawaii on divorce and remarriage (Guardian of Truth, 7 May 1992, pp. 272-73). He added, “Those of us who fight that same error in California are much in the minority. With those in that error taking courage from the `fence-straddlers’ (or compromisers), it often becomes a discouraging fight.” Brother Holderby suggested that the elders and myself consider the possibility of my making a trip to California to preach during January of 1993. Our elders (Charlie Alexander, James Moore, and J.D. Harris) were sympathetic to this call. Brother Harris had lived in California and was aware firsthand of the need. After we agreed to this proposal, invitations came from several churches in California who wanted to be included on the itinerary. The trip was challenging, educational for me, and productive.

Brother Holderby is seventy-two years old, has spent most of his preaching life in California, and stands for all the truth of the gospel without compromise. In consulting with him and a number of other brethren in the state, I heard the judgment repeatedly expressed that more and more churches which have had a reputation for soundness are drifting in-to apostasy on moral issues (Rev. 3:1). The concerns expressed by many California saints can be summarized as follows. They have seen three groups develop over the years with regard to the subject of divorce and remarriage. Brethren who embrace error have put down roots, spread the error little by little, and made considerable gains. Of the approximately 120 non-institutional churches in the state, about 40 openly embrace apostate doctrines on divorce and remarriage. Through the years, a number of preachers have sown the seeds of error through the pulpit, classroom, tracts and booklets, and private avenues, all the while covering their tracks with the claim, “We do not make an issue of it.”

A second group embraces unity-in-diversity on divorce and remarriage. Approximately 40 churches are included in this number. The local preacher or one called in for a gospel meeting might hold to truth or error, and it would not matter to brethren in one of these churches. Members are accepted in these churches regardless of their marital status or doctrinal stand on divorce and remarriage. Such brethren are very vulnerable to error because it is free to work in their midst with little or no challenge.

The third group includes about 40 churches which basically believe the truth on what the Bible says about divorce and remarriage. Some take a stronger stand than others. Most of these churches would not want a local preacher who embraces doctrinal error on the subject, although some would accept him if he is not outspoken in teaching the error. A number of these churches would not hesitate to invite a preacher for a gospel meeting in spite of the error he holds, but there is an unspoken expectation that the subject would not be addressed. Some preachers who are basically sound in their convictions on divorce and remarriage freely have fellowship with unsound preachers and accept meeting invitations from unsound churches (generally with the same tacit understanding that the subject will not be addressed). Those who participate in this limited “open fellowship” on each side of the issue seem to think it provides opportunities to influence brethren one way or the other. Long time observers say this gives legitimacy to false teachers which they otherwise would not have, and this generally has worked to the detriment of the cause of truth.

The brethren and churches which attempt to uphold the truth on divorce and remarriage are outnumbered two to one. But because of the “open fellowship” policy of many, brethren who speak out for the truth and openly expose error are often an unwelcome minority within a minority. Because of the strong, uncompromising stand they take, they are regarded as “extremists” and “troublemakers” by nearly everyone. Out-of-state preachers who come for gospel meetings sometimes compound the problem by not discussing marriage and divorce, because either they do not under-stand the struggle which is occurring or they do not care. As long as they do not address the subject, they can be invited back time and again to churches of every variety. This gives unsound churches credibility, and is used to put in a bad light the small band of California preachers who speak out.

A Great Door Open

Paul said of his preaching in Ephesus, “For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries” (I Cor. 16:9). A great door is open in California for preaching the truth, but there are many adversaries. A great battle between truth and error is in progress, and the future looks dark and bleak in many ways. Sound brethren need all the help and encouragement they can get. We should be willing to make sacrifices to hold up their hands and to hold high the blood-stained banner of the cross of Christ.

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ; for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth” (Rom. 1:16). “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). The prevalence of sin and error in California (and elsewhere) makes the future look dark and bleak, but the power of the gospel puts the picture in a different light. Error cannot withstand the power of truth, if only we will preach and press the demands of truth!

“Is not my word like as fire? saith the Lord; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces?” (Jer. 23:29) Error cannot stand before the searing fire and the hammer blows of truth. Error hides behind a plea for “tolerance and fellowship.” Most of “the fellowship issue” will take care of itself if sound brethren will preach the truth plainly and boldly (2 Cor. 3:12; Acts 4:29). “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins” (Isa. 58:1). Error will not sit still under the pressure of truth, but will retreat or attempt to fight. In either case, it will be exposed and defeated.

God’s Law Too Strict, Unfair?

Attentive audiences in California showed excellent interest in the preaching of the gospel. A wide range of thoughtful questions was asked during the question-and-answer sessions after the lessons. Underlying several questions was the notion that God’s law seems too strict and unfair. Jesus taught the rule of one man for one woman for life, with only one exception, that being that the innocent mate can put away an immoral one and marry another person (Matt. 5:32; 19:9). People in adulterous marriages must “repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance,” which means getting out of the unscriptural marriage with its bed of adultery (Acts 26:20; Mk. 6:18; Heb. 13:4). God’s law is strict and we had better obey it, if we want to be right with him. It is better to give up an adulterous marriage than to “be cast into hell,” even if this seems to be “a hard saying” (Matt. 5:29-30; Jn. 6:60,66). If men consider God’s marriage law too strict, then they should not marry (Matt. 19:10-12).

God’s way is fair and just, but our sinful says are not. When men of old complained, “The way of the Lord is not equal,” God answered,

O house of Israel, are not my ways equal? are not your ways unequal?

Therefore I will judge you, 0 house of Israel, everyone according to this ways, saith the Lord God.

Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin (Ezek. 18:29-30).

Whose fault is it if men have not sought and found God, and therefore end up in adulterous marriages and other sins with painful consequences? God is seeking men with good and honest hearts to worship him On. 4:23). God rules over the nations in such a way that men can find him if only they will seek him, “though he be not far from every one of us” (Acts 17:26-27). God is fair and just from start to finish, but men are unfair and unjust toward God in refusing to seek him.

Man’s injustice toward God and his fellowman creates the painful consequences and complications of homosexual marriage, polygamous marriage, incestuous marriage, and other forms of adulterous marriage. The consequences are

“A great baffle between
God and Satan for the souls of men is
always raging. We are warned against the danger
of compromising the gospel in its purity for ‘another gospel:
which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and
would pervert the gospel of Christ’ We are to reject all
such as ‘accursed.'”

more painful in polygamy than in the typical adulterous marriage in our society, because more wives and children are involved in a case of polygamy. If the emotional pain of ending a typical adulterous marriage justifies staying in it, then the many fold pains involved in ending a polygamous marriage justify even more staving in it. No matter how painful the consequences, people must get out of adulterous marriages in order to be right with God.

A Great Battle for Souls

A great battle between God and Satan for the souls of men is always raging. We are warned against the danger of compromising the gospel in its purity for “another gospel: which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ.” We are to reject all such as “accursed” (Gal. 1:6-9). Among people professing to be Christians, three groups existed in the early church. 1. There were false brethren, “to whom,” Paul said, “we gave place by subjection, no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you” (2:3-5). 2. There were faithful brethren like Paul who were determined to uphold the truth of the gospel at all costs (2:3-5,14). 3. There were flip-flop brethren who compromised the truth when under pressure. Peter fell into this trap on one occasion, was rebuked openly by Paul, corrected his sin, and later spoke warmly of “our beloved brother Paul” (2:11-14; 2 Pet. 3:15). Some brethren continued on the course of compromise. Perhaps some protested that Paul had unfairly at-tacked a dearly beloved brother. They may have resented Paul’s efforts and labelled him “a brotherhood watchdog,” “a narrow-minded legalist,” or “a troublemaker.”

The same three groups exist among professed Christians everywhere today in different concentrations and distributions. The combination of false and flip-flop brethren leave faithful brethren badly outnumbered in California, and those who speak out are increasingly isolated and ostracized. Informed Christians know that this battle has spread well beyond the borders of California.

Brethren openly committed to false doctrine are getting bolder all across the country. After teaching his theories in assemblies in El Cajon, California and Belen, New Mexico in 1988, Homer Hailey (of Tucson, AZ) published an 85-page book in 1991 entitled The Divorced and Remarried Who Would Come to God. During 1990, I had two debates on divorce and remarriage with Jack Freeman (of Las Vegas, NV); the second one is being published by the Guardian of Truth Foundation and should be available soon. In 1991 Jerry F. Bassett (of Eugene, OR) published an 149-page book of his theories entitled Rethinking Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage, with the help of his brother Don (of Brent-wood, TN). Jerry Bassett had two debates in 1992 defending his error. Don was deeply involved in assisting Jerry.

W.L. Wharton (of San Antonio, TX) shocked many brethren by moderating for Jerry in the first debate and then by preaching this error in the pulpit. In the wake of these events, brother Wharton’s close friend and associate Terry Sumerlin (of San Antonio) publicly identified himself with the same false doctrine by preaching it in the pulpit. These actions by brethren Wharton and Sumerlin have devastated the Highland Blvd. church in San Antonio. J.T. Smith had two debates during 1991-92 exposing the errors of Olan Hicks (of Searcy, AR). Hicks is an institutional liberal, but his theories on divorce and remarriage are well represented among non-institutional brethren. Anyone who does not realize this battle is spreading beyond the confines of the west coast has his head in the sand.

A rationale for unity-in-diversity on divorce and remarriage was presented by Ed Harrell in Christianity Magazine in a 17 part series (Nov. 1988-Aug. 1990). He repeatedly misused Romans 14 as a basis for brethren to tolerate differences of “considerable moral and doctrinal import,” including “contradictory teachings and practices on important moral and doctrinal questions” (May 1989, p. 6; May 1990, p. 6). The paper’s “positive” philosophy forbids anyone to review brother Harrell’s series in the magazine (Sept. 1990, p. 7). Those who have used other forums to review the error have been stigmatized as “reckless,” “irresponsible,” “extremists,” and meddlers who “intend to `line up’ followers or create a party” (“A Report” mailed out by Christianity Magazine, late 1992). Neither the error misusing Romans 14 on unity-in-diversity-of-divorce doctrines nor the “Report” has been repudiated, rebuked, and reviewed in the magazine by any of its editors (Dee Bowman, Paul Earnhart, Sewell Hall, Ed Harrell, Brent Lewis). A revised version of the “Report” appeared in the paper. asserting that no one who reads the paper has any reason at all to doubt its soundness (Jan. 1993, p. 4).

Preserving the Purity of the Gospel

How can brethren in California and throughout the country stop the advance of false doctrines on divorce and remarriage, and how can we avoid compromise with such errors?

I. The only weapon we have is the truth of God’s Word. “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” We must continue this work even when some among us “will not endure sound doctrine.” We must ever “watch,” sound a warning when error approaches, and “endure afflictions” for the cause of truth (2 Tim. 4:1-5). “Reprove, rebuke, exhort” means there must be a balance of positive and negative aspects of the truth in our preaching. We must avoid the temptation to stoop to the carnal tactics of error. We must be confident that false doctrine cannot withstand the constant pressure of the persistent preaching of truth. “For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds” (2 Cor. 10:4).

2. We must distinguish matters of the revealed faith from matters of personal faith (2 Jn. 9; Jude 3; Rom. 14:1-15:7). Christ revealed his doctrine on marriage, divorce, and remarriage, and said through John, “If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not” (2 Jn. 10). Where there are differences of personal conscience involving no violation of truth, the Lord said, “Receive ye one another” (Rom. 15:7). Romans 14 is being perverted to justify tolerating apostate doctrines which result in adulterous marriages. The toleration taught in Romans 14 is limited to the realm where “there is nothing unclean of itself,” where “all things indeed are pure” (vv. 14,20). Digressive doctrines resulting in adulterous marriages do not fit into that realm!

3. We must recognize that departures from the faith “wax worse and worse” (2 Tim. 3:13). Dangerous error degenerates, it does not remain static. “They will increase unto more ungodliness. And their word will eat as doth a canker:. . . and overthrow the faith of some” (2:16-18). The denominational dogmas of “grace only” and “faith only” embrace more and more diverse doctrines and departures day by day. The no-patternism of liberalism does the same thing. Apostate doctrines on divorce and remarriage do the same thing.

Those who teach diverse, false doctrines embrace one another, and the ever-widening circle makes it possible for them to justify people remaining in new marriages following divorces for any and every cause. Furthermore, an in-creasing number of these false teachers and those who follow them defend and practice such ungodly deeds as drinking intoxicants, the equivalent of the “strong drink” of Bible times. Other practices which are becoming rampant without rebuke among these churches include dancing, gambling and daily attire. Such sins can be found at times among churches which are sound on divorce and remarriage, because of neglect of teaching or indifference in hearing. But there is a logical reason why there is a definite pattern developing which embraces such sins among many brethren who are committed to error on divorce and remarriage. When moral restraints and convictions are loosened in one area, they inevitably will be relaxed in other areas.

4. False doctrines and the teachers who spread them must be exposed (2 Tim. 2:16-18). Some brethren have erred “concerning the truth,” teaching things contrary to the doctrine of Christ, “and overthrow the faith of some” by justifying their adulterous marriages. The doctrines need to be specified and the teachers need to be identified, whether it be Hymenaeus, Philetus, Alexander, or Demas.

Maurice Estes (West Anaheim, CA) preached a series of lessons in 1990 filled with error at the Sun Garden church in Fresno. His booklet on Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage (1979) has been translated into Spanish, as has The Truth About Matthew 19:9 (1990) by Mel Rose (Madeira, CA). Rose publishes and distributes both of them in Spanish. Wayne Partain and Bill Reeves report that these materials have worked havoc among Spanish speaking brethren in the U.S., Mexico, San Salvador, and Latin America generally. Souls have been subverted and churches divided as a direct result of the false doctrines of Estes, Rose and others. We should treat all men with courtesy and dignity, but when the false teacher comes our way, the Apostle of love commanded by divine inspiration, “Receive him not” (2 Jn. 9-11).

Godly elders guarding the flock will not give such men opportunities to gain the confidence of the flock, but will stop their mouths (Tit. 1:10). The Bible says to mark and avoid such men (Rom. 16:17). Past friendships and associations do not alter our duties. We must be friends to God first and to men second. We are “not to think of men above that which is written” (I Cor. 4:6).

There are many lessons to be learned from the course of events among our dear brethren in California. Let us pray for them and help them as we have opportunities. There are many fine brethren there who love the truth. Their hard-ships remind us that we must resist error and those who teach it, no matter who they are, no matter what their past attainments have been. Paul said, “To whom we gave place by subjection, no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you” (Gal. 2:5). Let us all be “set for the defense of the gospel,” speak “the truth in love,” and “speak boldly,” as we ought to speak (Phil. 1:17; Eph. 4:15; 6:20).

Guardian of Truth XXXVII: 9, p. 16-19
May 20, 1993

By Olen Holderby

Ephesians chapter five seems to be an appropriate basis for what we shall have to say in this article. Paul is, of course, writing “to the saints who are in Ephesus;” and he reflects upon several themes, one of which was the prevailing immorality.

Background

Most gospel preachers, no doubt, have prepared lessons making use of the corruption found in and about Sodom and Gomorrah of Abraham’s time (Gen. 19). However, we need not reach that far into the past for examples of such debauchery. William Barclay says, “The sexual life of the Graeco-Roman World in NT times was a lawless chaos” (Flesh and Spirit, p. 24). Further, he notes, “When Greek laxity invaded Rome, it was sadly coarsened. Hiberina says Juvenal, will no more be satisfied with one man than she would be with one eye (Juvenal, Satires 6:55). Roman women, says Seneca, were married to be divorced and were divorced to be married. . . `Chastity is simply a proof of ugliness’ (Seneca, On Benefits, 3:16.1-3). Innocence, says Seneca, is not rare, it is non-existent (On Anger, 2.8)” (Ibid, p. 25). Many ancient writers speak of homosexuality, mistresses, legal prostitution and state brothels, concubines, and incest. J.J. Dollinger refers to homosexuality as “The great national disease of Greece” (The Gentile and the Jew, II, p. 239 as quoted by Barclay, ibid., p. 26). Of particular interest is the fact that most of these writers are not Christians, but pagans who were disgusted with themselves. Fornication, in the name of religion, appears to have been an accepted standard for that ancient society. Even as late as the second century, the age was referred to as “an age when shame seems to have vanished from the earth” (J.J. Chapman as quoted by Barclay, ibid., p. 24). Thus, we can understand that Christianity was born into a Graeco-Roman world when sexual immorality was established custom and practice. Not many thought of it as being immoral.

The Apostle Paul deals very pointedly with sexual immorality in much of his writings. The man in 1 Corinthians 5:1ff must cease from incest. There was some in Corinth who had not repented of their fornication and Paul said that they must (2 Cor. 12:21). Such sins must be put to death (Col. 3:5). Christians must abstain from sexual immorality (1 Thess. 4:3). The body is not for sexual immorality (1 Cor. 6:13). The Christian must flee fornication (1 Cor. 6:18). According to these and other Scriptures, chastity appears to have been a new virtue which Christianity and its preachers introduced into the pagan world, but introduce it they did!

What gospel preacher has not used such corruption to show why the Roman Empire fell? It is, indeed, the truth! And, this fact has been used to warn of corrupt practices of our present society in America. This is as it should be, especially so for those who claim to be Christians. Just today (Feb. 23, 1993) I received a letter from a fellow-Christian; this good sister was complaining that the people around her thought “nothing of gambling, drinking, or adultery.” She was absolutely amazed at those “who go to some religious service faithfully” and yet, are not offended by such things. It is obvious that our age, in and out of religion, offers striking similarities with that Graeco-Roman culture that existed during the earlier days of Christianity.

Back to Ephesians 5

Fornication was one of three evils of which Paul said, “Let is not even be named among you” (v. 3). “For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God” (v. 5). Now do not permit anyone to deceive you, “For because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience” (v. 6). Do not be partakers with such (v. 7). You once walked in darkness, but now, “Walk as children of light” (v. 8). While walking as the children of light, they would be proving what was acceptable to the Lord (vv. 9,10). Not only were they not to participate in such conduct, but also they were to expose it (v. 11). Such conduct was a shameful reflection upon all involved (v. 12); and, the guilty needed to be exposed for all to see (v. 13). “Therefore he says: Awake you who sleep, arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light” (v. 14).

Of the word “awake,” Vine says, it is used “metaphorically, of awaking from a state of moral sloth.” It is suggested that literally it would read, “Arouse thee!”  a phrase used to stir men to activity. Obviously, Paul is trying to stir the Ephesians to active opposition to the immorality of their day, and especially that immorality that was in their midst. They were to arouse from their state of slumber and false security. This writer is persuaded that the Ephesians had no greater need to be aroused than do we today. Commenting on Ephesians 5:14 Albert Barnes said, “In sleep we are, though living, insensible to any danger that may be near.” Brethren, is this our condition today? Have we looked upon immorality so long, and in our midst, that we have come to accept it as if it were proper con-duct for a Christian? This writer has received letters and calls, sometimes feeling that he was showered with them, from people who were seeking a solution (or justification) for immoral practices, especially sexual immorality. These people were wanting out of (or into) a marriage relationship. God forbid that I should fail to assist my fellow-Christian in resolving any situation that brings unhappiness or ungodliness. However, brethren, that is not the real problem; the real problem is that so many of our number are seeking to justify ungodly con-duct or relationships, the presence of which identifies us with the world and not separation from it (Rom. 12:2).

With Paul I say, “It is high time to awake out of sleep” (Rom. 13:11). Preacher! Elders! Teachers! Let us be aroused from our sleep, whether self-imposed or unconscious, and without compromise preach God’s truth; and, let us do that until we have cleansed our ranks of those things that best identify us with the world. Hopefully, this can be done by bringing the guilty to repentance; but if not, then we must deny them our fellowship and expose them (Eph. 5:11). No excuse can justify any other route.

Confirmation

The thoughts and conclusions expressed above were further confirmed recently. During the month of January, 1993, brother Ron Halbrook visited California in a series of seven short meetings. This writer was one of those who urged brother Halbrook to make such a trip and to preach on “Trends” leading to an apostasy. Unsolicited reports and personal observation convince us that much good was accomplished. Brother Halbrook did an excellent job in presenting the truth and in handling the question periods which followed his lessons in each of these seven places. I did not hear a single point made with which I did not wholly agree. In spite of all this, there were some present in most of these places who strongly disagreed; and, they were permitted to say so if they wished. This effort with brother Halbrook pointed up at least two things: (1) There are still those around who love the truth and wish the truth preached on all subjects. (2) There is an urgent need for more such preaching.

I have preached in California in all but two of the last forty years; and, it is obvious to me that we have more than “our share” of immorality. The only remedy known to this writer is to be found in accepting the challenge of Paul to Timothy in 2 Timothy 4:1-2 to preach the word, in season and out of season. Until we let the world know that the world has no place in the church, the church will continue to be plagued by the “world within.” Brethren, surely you agree that we need an arousing, an arousing to active opposition to the immorality in our midst. We believe that we are up to that task; but we have to make up our minds to begin and to consistently stay on the job. It is not enough to agree; we must be active in our defense of the truth (Phil. 1:17).

Some Closing Remarks

We go back to Ephesians chapter five for some brief remarks and closing thoughts. After trying to arouse the Ephesians to active opposition to the immorality in their midst, Paul urges them to not be fools but to walk circumspectly (v. 15). Because souls are at stake, he would have them make urgent and proper use of their time, for their days were evil. Do not waste your opportunities (v. 16). Paul warned, do not be unwise and foolish; but, find out what the Lord’s will is and do it now (v. 17). Brethren, prayerfully I urge you to consider, we do need an arousing! May God help us all to so be!

 

“Brethren, surely you agree that we need an arousing,
an arousing to active opposition to the immorality in
our midst. We believe that we are up to that task; but
we have to make up our minds to being and to
consistently stay on the job.”

Guardian of Truth XXXVII: 9, p. 10-11
May 20, 1993