Truth Magazine

By Jady Copeland

In our last lesson we learned that the Lord’s money (money given into the Lord’s treasury) is to be obtained by the liberality of the saints, and to be used for preaching the gospel and benevolence (saints in need). In view of the duties of elders and the passage in Acts 11:30 it seems that elders (if there be elders in the congregation) have the responsibility of using the money for the Lord’s purposes and limited to the uses made of the funds as found in precept and examples in the New Testament. We also learned that there is a difference in the funds of the individual and the church (Acts 5:1-4). Before reading the remainder of this article, it would be good to read and study that passage again. Before Ananias and Sapphira sold the property, it was under their power to do with it what they wanted (regulated by honesty and other moral principles). And after it was sold, the money still belonged to them, but after they put it under the apostle’s feet, they lost control and it was to be used by apostolic authority. In this lesson let us look in more detail at the individual’s money.

Money: A Means of Good or Evil

Remember our theme: Possessed by our Possessions. Money of itself is neither good nor evil. As love (whether good or evil) depends on the object of our love, so the attitude and use of money determines whether it is good or bad. In the example of Acts 4 and 5 the use of the money by the saints was good, for they gave it to help their brethren. But in the case of Ananias and Sapphira, it caused them to lie to the Holy Spirit — perhaps covetousness was involved. In Acts 8:18-19 money tempted Simon who wanted to buy the power of God. He was told to repent (v. 22). Money was not to be used for that. But there is a good lesson here that we may overlook. Peter said, “Your money perish with you.” Among other things the simple lesson is taught that money is temporary and is to be used to God’s glory. Any other use of the individual’s money is a misuse. Just as all we think and do must be to the glory of God, surely the use of our money must be used for this too. Thus in the case of Ananias and Sapphira, you have two problems — covetousness and dishonesty. It was theirs before they gave it, but covetousness is wrong, and it caused them to lie to the Holy Spirit. So in saying the individual’s money is theirs to do with it what they choose, it must be remembered that moral principles must be observed, and this is sinful because it does not glorify God.

How Does the Individual Obtain His Money?

As there are good and evil ways to spend money, there are right and wrong ways to obtain money. In Matthew 20 we learn of those being hired to work in a vineyard. They were promised a certain wage for the labor. When an employer offers to pay a worker a certain wage, he has an obligation to pay him the amount promised. If the worker accepts the offer, he owes the employer an honest hour’s work for pay received. Adam was (after his sin) to work “in the sweat of thy face” to eat bread.

Some people make a living by the “law of exchange.” They buy and sell as in the case of the parable of talents (Matt. 25:14ff). James instructs us to be careful to include the Lord in our plans when we get ready to “buy and sell, and make a profit” (Jas. 5:14). But again, within the moral precepts that may limit us, we may make a living in this way.

Someone may obtain money by a gift. Out of love, if you give another property or money, there is nothing wrong with this way of obtaining money (Job. 42:11).

But in each of the above ways of getting our money, there lies a danger in being “possessed by our possessions.” If I am an hourly laborer, there is the danger of failing to give an honest day’s labor for the wage promised. Laziness is not only an ugly and sinful trait, but if I do not give the boss the work promised for the wages I receive, it is dishonesty. It is just as sinful to cheat an employer out of an hour’s labor as it is to steal that much from the cash register.

If I make a living by trading and selling, there is also a danger of being “possessed by possessions.” For example, I may ask more than a product is worth. Again dishonesty and covetousness enter the picture. Just as a dishonest employee may cheat on his employer, so a salesman may be dishonest by asking too much for a product — in light of the ignorance of the buyer who knows little about what he is buying. Car salesmen have the reputation (sometimes without cause) of being dishonest because they know a car is not in the mechanical condition that the buyer thinks. And yet the innocent buyer has no way of knowing that the car is a “lemon.” But one “possessed by his possessions” wants to “make an extra buck” even being dishonest and defraud-

In conclusion let us emphasize the point that in most every area of life. the individual Christian must watch out for the danger of being “possessed by his possessions.” Covetousness is such a subtle thing. We may think we need a better care than is really necessary. We may not be willing to eat beans and bread occasionally (instead of steak) in order to be able to do more for the Lord. We may think we need a $25,000 car instead of one that costs less when in reality the cheaper car will do the same job. You see often pride (which can be sinful) may get in the way. In spending money for recreation, we may think we need more time off than we really do. Too many have become accustomed to a certain plan of living, and in order to maintain that level, they get two jobs, or put the wife to work (who should be home with the children) in order to maintain that lifestyle and as a result they “just don’t have time” to do anything for the Lord. Many good men can never be elders because they have jobs that will not allow it — yet they could make a good living in some way that would allow them to serve the Lord much more effectively. Parents, train your son to choose an occupation that would allow him to do his best work for the Lord. Stop and think — life is short, “things” are temporary, and eternity is around the corner. Let us not think too highly of the things of this earth which may jeopardize our chances of an eternity with God.

Guardian of Truth XXXVII: 7, p. 14-15
April 1, 1993

By Lindsay Allen

Since God is a God of love, pity and compassion, it is not surprising that he has always championed the cause of widows, the fatherless and other poor and unfortunate people. At the same time, God has stressed that these people should not be shown preferential treatment before the courts simply because they were poor. The poor too, may pay their due according to their ability and opportunity. However, God’s law regarding the treatment or neglect of such people is firm and stringent. “Ye shall not afflict any widow, or fatherless child. If thou afflict them in any wise, and they cry at all unto me, I will surely hear their cry; and my wrath shall wax hot, and I will kill you with the sword; and your wives shall be widows, and your children father-less” (Exod. 22:22-24). Jesus reminds us, “The poor ye have with you always, and whensoever ye will ye may do them good” (Mk. 14:7). Matthew’s picture of the final judgment makes it clear that caring for the poor weighs heavy in determining one’s eternal destiny (Matt. 25:34-46). James reminds his brethren that “pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world” (Jas. 1:27). God’s people today must be as diligent and faithful to care for such people as in any previous age (Heb. 2:1-3; 8:6).

However, it is equally important to know that God has severely restricted the work of benevolence. “For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat” (2 Thess. 3:10). This is strong language. Indolence is a sin that must not be tolerated. Thsoe who aid such be-come partakers of this sin. God expects each person to stand on his own feet and do for himself as he is able and has opportunity. This leads to another restriction: each one is to be responsible for his immediate family and near relatives as he is able. This includes aged parents and other relatives. Those who refuse to do so “hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel” (I Tim. 5:4,8,16). Notice also that the care of widows is restricted. James 1:27 teaches this work belongs to individuals, and could include those widows, aged parents and fatherless of his own household. If these guidelines were followed today, welfare rolls would be drastically reduced, and the church not be burdened. It is easily seen that the great majority of benevolent work is to be done by individuals, not the church nor secular organizations.

It should also be noted that God never intended for benevolence to be used as a tool to bring people into Christ or to keep them faithful. Follow Paul on his preaching tours into Asia and Southeastern Europe. There were poor people then as now, and yet Paul never used either clothes, food or money to entice people to obey the gospel. The only drawing power used was the gospel. True discipleship cannot be bought with material goods (Rom. 1:16,17; In. 6:44-45). Such tactics were used after World War II. Baptisms came easy, the building overflowed, but when the “loaves and fishes” ran out, so did the “converts.”

There are nine groups of passages of Scripture in the New Testament on benevolence that is the responsiblity of the local church. Lack of space prohibits a full discussion of each passage. Please read these Scriptures: (1) Acts 2:44,45; (2) Acts 4:32-35; (3) Acts 6:1-6; (4) Acts 11:27-30; (5) Romans 15:25-32; (6) 1 Corinthians 16:1-3; (7) 2 Corinthians 8; (8) 2 Corinthians 9; (9) 1 Timothy 5:9-16. Having read these Scriptures, answer two questions about each. First, who did the relieving and who were relieved.

The Christian’s life is a training school for eternity. It is in this school that traits of character will be developed that prepare for heavenly citizenship. These traits cannot be developed by proxy, but only through personal exercise and experience. Among these traits are kindness, pity, compassion, gentleness, tenderheartedness, and love. God wants his people to become personally involved in service, not the mere giving of money through some agency. This plan does not exclude money, but also includes becoming personally involved. 1 once knew a lady who willingly gave money but would not go where there was filth and unpleasant odors. Such work is Christ-like and makes one strong spiritually. Christ went among the poor, lowly and out-cast. Yes, he washed his disciples’ feet with his own hands. This is true benevolence.

Guardian of Truth XXXVII: 6, p. 5
March 18, 1993

By Carl McMurray

And He was passing through from one city and village to another, teaching, and proceeding on His way to Jerusalem (Lk. 13:22).

The passage above speaks of our Lord’s journey toward Jerusalem. Verses 32 and 33 show us that this was not just a trip for him and Jerusalem was not just a place to stop. That city was his goal. He knew that he was traveling toward his own crucifixion. While setting his mind on his goal, however, he did not lose sight of where he was and what he was doing. Daily he was casting out demons and performing miracles of healing upon others. Think also about his method of travel. Possessing little finances, Jesus probably walked most places he went. As he walked into villages and out of cities on his journey, his eyes and ears were open to the cries of those distressed. He spoke to them, touched them, healed their bodies and changed their lives. He taught them and spoke with a confidence and truth that burned his words into their hearts so that people remembered his teaching and told others, “No man ever spake like this man.” As Jesus traveled toward death, he formed relation-ships and left an effect behind him.

On the other hand, consider how we travel. We like interstates. We seal ourselves up in an air-conditioned environment on smooth asphalt and radial tires. With reclining seats and cruise control, our favorite tape in the player, or Rush Limbaugh on the radio, we sit back and chat with others in the car for hundreds upon hundreds of miles. Every few hours I may stop just momentarily for a bottle of juice and some popcorn or fuel or a meal. Even then it’s, “Hurry and get back in the car — gotta go!”

You may be asking about this time, “What’s the point?” “Is he trying to tell us to walk instead of drive?” I’m really not doing that at all. Jesus’ method of travel accurately represented the way he traveled through life. My point is that if we are not careful, we also travel through life like we travel across the country. We get ourselves insulated and comfortable with all of our needs seen to. The only time we get close to others is when we jump out momentarily and need someone else to see to another of our needs. We want things smooth and comfortable, clean and quiet, as we travel toward our goal. We pay outrageous amounts for a home to live in and then never “use” it for hospitality because a magazine may be on the floor or the plush pile carpet is not vacuumed. We have every modern labor-saving appliance (almost) known to man in our kitchens — so we can eat out! Many modern ladies would find it impossible to prepare, on short notice, for extra company at the table. They couldn’t compete with women in the past who work-ed out of pots and woodstoves. The average work week has been shortened to 40-50 hours for most men, but we still can’t find time to attend evening classes, visit other Christians, or prepare a class to teach. Our children are healthier, better educated, and have access to more opportunities than they have ever had. They are also lazier, more disrespectful, more spoiled, less self-controlled and less responsible. I know there are many exceptions to all the preceeding — but I still believe this to be the “rule.” Are we traveling through life at our ease? We need to wake up and pay attention to what’s going on around us.

I see Jesus walking and talking in the marketplaces, answering their questions, as he healed them. He blessed the little children and I just imagine he greeted the elderly with respect and compassion. He took note of people — and so should we. Slow down! On this road of life, get out of your car and walk. Turn off life’s radio, listen to some people, and find out what is really important.

When you visit the grocery next time, for a moment, visit with the cashier. Compliment the gas station attendant and call that little girl at Hardee’s by her name. She wears it on a tag for all to take note of. When your co-worker shows up at work in a good mood, ask him why and then give him some positive feedback. Feel good with him, laugh out loud with him. When sadness or tragedy strike an acquaintance — run, don’t walk, right to them — hug ’em. Take some time to listen to their feelings. Be quiet. You can’t hear when you’re talking. It doesn’t matter if you know “just what to say” like some others seem to do so easily. It is your heart that people want, not your eloquence.

Stop the car and get out of the air conditioning. Look deep into the eyes of your children and see yourself. Give them what they need; your love, your confidence, and discipline. Tell your friends what you think of them, what they mean to you. Encourage the younger ones who are walking in your footsteps and don’t push the elderly ahead of you — care for them and watch out for them instead. Make sure your husband or wife knows you love them. Experience life in all of its excitements, and sorrows, and joys. Talk to people and listen. Visit with people and share. Keep your eyes open to help and when you see a place, jump into the gap and give it your best. Jesus was traveling toward his goal and so are we. He was traveling toward heaven and so are we. He was heading toward death and so are we. All along the way he was reaching out and sharing God’s power and the good news of the kingdom. We should be doing the same thing. To arrive at the Lord’s goal, we’re going to have to travel his path. What type of traveler have you been? What type will you be?

Guardian of Truth XXXVII: 6, p. 13
March 18, 1993

By Donald Townsley

Denominational dogma and practice have greatly obscured the truth concerning the manner in which the Holy Spirit operates in the conversion of man. Denominationalism teaches that in conversion the Holy Spirit works directly, without means, upon the heart of man — some say, “in a manner above our comprehension.” Many brethren teach the “personal indwelling” of the Holy Spirit after conversion. But, what does the word of God teach? If the Holy Spirit operates separate and apart from the word of God, what does he do? We believe the Bible teaches that the Holy Spirit works only through the word of God in conversion, and that he dwells in the Christian through the medium of the Word. Let us examine the Scriptures concerning this subject.

1. The Holy Spirit does not enlighten the soul of man apart from the word of God; he does this through the Word.

Psalms 19:8 — “The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.”

Psalms 119:130 — “The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.”

Ephesians 5:17 — “Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.”

2. The Holy Spirit does not convert the soul of man apart from the word of God; he does this through the Word.

a. Psalms 19:7 — “The law of the Lord is perfect, con verting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.”

Romans 1:16 — “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.”

I Corinthians 4:15 — “For though ye have ten thou-sand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospeL”

The Holy Spirit does not make us wise unto salvation apart from the word of God; he does this through the Holy Scriptures.

a. 2 Timothy 3:15 — “And that from a child thou hast known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.”

The Holy Spirit does not cleanse us apart from the word of God; he does this through the word.

a. John 15:3 — “Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.”

The Holy Spirit does not sanctify apart from the word of God; he does this through the word.

a. John 17:17 — “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.”

The Holy Spirit does not save apart from the word of God; he does this through the word.

James 1:21 — “Wherefore lay part all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.”

Romans 1:16 “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.”

The Holy Spirit does not make men free from sin apart from the word of God; he makes them free from sin through their obeying that “form of doctrine.”

a. Romans 6:17-18 “But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.”

The Holy Spirit does not work apart from the word of God in order to bring about the new birth; He brings about the new birth by the word.

a. 1 Peter 1:23 “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever.”

The Holy Spirit does not produce faith in the hearts of men apart from the word of God; he does this through the word.

a. Romans 10:17 — “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”

The Holy Spirit does not produce fruit in the life of a Christian apart from the word of God; he does it through the word.

Matthew 13:23 — “But he that receiveth seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.”

Galatians 5:22-23 — “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”

The Holy Spirit does not make the Christian ‘ perfect” and “furnished unto all good works” apart from the word of God; he does this through the word.

a. 2 Timothy 3:16,17 — “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”

The Holy Spirit does not produce growth in Christians apart from the word of God; he does this through the word.

a. 1 Peter 2:2 “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.”

The Holy Spirit dwells in the Christian — not directly, apart from the word of God, but through the medium of the word.

Galatians 3:2 “This only would Ilearn of you, received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?”

Ephesians 3:17 — “That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love.”

Guardian of Truth XXXVII: 6, p. 14-15
March 18, 1993