Truth Magazine

By Clark C. Buzbee

“These people draw near to Me with their mouth, and honor Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men” (Matt. 15:8-9). Isaiah first said it, and Jesus quoted it, making application of it to those who had nullified the word of God by what they “said” when compared with what they “did.”

The application of this Scripture is very simple. When we honor God’s commandment with our mouth but practice something else, we are guilty of sin in that we make null and void the word of God. There are several Scriptures that relate to this sin, and there are numerous Bible examples of those who were guilty of this sin.

This article will deal with specific examples of this sin as it is practiced today. As noted in the title of this article, this is a common sin in the denominational world. It is also true that some of my own brethren in the Lord in this area have failed to keep what they say consistent with what they do; therefore their flagrant inconsistency will be pointed out in these studies also.

We must teach the truth (Jn. 8:32; 17:17), and our practice must be consistent with that truth (Matt. 23:1-3). Otherwise, we will be eternally separated from God (Matt. 7:21-23). With these facts in mind, all of us should be able to see the importance of striving to keep our activities consistent with God’s word!

An example of an individual who “said” that he had “done” the will of God when in fact he had not, is found in 1 Samuel 15. Saul said, “I have performed the commandment of the Lord,” but the noise of the animals was compelling evidence to the contrary. The bleating of the sheep and the lowing of the oxen stood in district contrast to what Saul was saying.

Likewise, today, the “noise” of what some are doing stands in sharp contrast to what they are saying.

The Scriptures Are Complete

The words used to express it may be different, but most religious people who may be called “conservative” claim to believe the Bible to be a “complete rule of faith and practice.” Therefore it is common for preachers to say, “The scriptures are complete and contain everything necessary for us to please God in this life and live in eternity with Him.”

2 Timothy 3:16-17, Jude 3, and 2 Peter 1:1-3 certainly establish the truthfulness of the above statement. The Bible is complete! It does furnish everything necessary for us to please God!

When we “say” this, we are also saying that God concluded his revelation with the giving of the New Testament. We must therefore reject all claims to any “new” revelation today. This is where “lip service” enters the picture.

While claiming to believe the Bible to be God’s complete revelation to mankind, many preachers (without so much as a blush) are constantly claiming that “God spoke to my heart and said” thus and so. Just a few days ago I heard a “preacher” say, “The Lord said to me, there is someone watching today who . . .” Then he continued by saying, “The Lord spoke to me, and told me to tell that person . . .” Such claims as this to direct communication with God, and God telling these various preachers what to say and do have become all too common.

These men are either self-deluded or outright deceivers, or both! They “say” they believe the Bible is complete, but what they are claiming and doing speak to the contrary! I would walk twenty miles, barefoot, to hear these men explain why we are to heed the things they claim God has said to them, and not listen to the claims of men like Joseph Smith who “said” that God spoke to him!

Every single one of these people who “claim” God has spoken to them are much like the prophets of whom God spoke when he said in Jeremiah 23:21, “I have not sent these prophets, yet they ran. I have not spoken to them, yet they prophesied.”

Saul said, “I have done what the Lord said.” Samuel said, “What is all that noise I hear?” Men say, “I believe the Bible is complete.” We need to ask, “What are all those claims to current revelation I hear?”

Congregational Independence

The scribes and Pharisees said they honored their parents, but what they did was disregard the needs of their parents (Matt. 15:1-9). They, by a deceitful “explanation” of God’s commandement, taught that you did not actually have to honor your father and mother.

Let us focus on the Bible fact that each local church of Christ is to be independent and autonomous. Some brethren say they believe this, but what they have done compares to the noise of thousands of sheep and oxen!

What is meant by the term “autonomy”? I once read what I believe is an excellent description of this Bible principle. There were six points. A congregation of God’s people is authorized by God to: (1) control its own resources; (2) control its own work and worship (within the doctrine of Christ); (3) manage its own affairs; (4) exercise congregational discipline; (5) provide for its own; and (6) govern itself in matters of judgment. All of the above are to be done under the oversight of a plurality of elders when and if men are qualified (scripturally).

In the New Testament each congregation was indeed independent and autonomous. No congregation was ever authorized by God to become involved in the affairs of another congregation. God limited the oversight of a group of elders to the local church of which they are a part. There is no Bible authority for elders of one congregation to exercise oversight of another congregation; there is no authoritry for them to control the resources of another congregation; there is no authority for them to own and control the property of another congregation; there is no authority for them to transfer ownership of that property to a third congregation; and there is no authority for that congregation to sell the property and thereby force the church meeting on the property to leave their place of assembly.

But, all of this was done, and it was done by those who say that they believe in the independence and autonomy of each local church. No wonder Jesus said, “These people . . . honor Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me” (Matt. 15:8)”

I would walk twenty miles, barefoot, to hear someone try to scripturally “justify” such control and “oversight” of elders. I would walk a second twenty miles, still barefoot, to hear a preacher seek to give Bible authority for a church to receive and dispose of another congregation’s property!

Guardian of Truth XXXVI: 6, pp. 163-164
March 19, 1992

By Louis J. Sharp

“Hellenism is the name we give to the manifold achievements of the Greeks in social and political institutions, in the various arts, in science and philosophy, in morals and religion” (ISBE 1371). “It is difficult to define this spirit, but one may say that it was marked from the first by an inclination to permit the free development and expression of individuality subordinated to the common good. A healthy social life was the result for those who shared the privileges of citizenship, and also, in hardly less degree, for those resident aliens who received the protection of the state. Women also, though not so free as men, enjoyed, even at Athens where they were most limited, liberties unknown to the Orientals (includes the Jews, LHS) . . . their lot was mitigated in general by a steadily growing humanity” (Ibid. 1372).

Pfeiffer submits that “Alexander the Great had been a missionary as well as a conqueror. Alexander continued to think of himself as one who was bringing the blessings of Hellenism, as the Greek way of life is called, to the more benighted parts of the world” (Between the Testaments 83). “Fine buildings were erected. A gymnasium was built for that culture of the boy which the Greek always stressed. An open air theatre was built to entertain the populace. Greek dress was observed in the city, with people speaking the Greek language and subscribing to one of the schools of Greek philosophy” (Ibid. 83-84). “Palestine itself was not so far removed as to be untouched. Especially the educated classes were enamored with the Greek way of doing things. The amphitheater and the gymnasium were attractive to the young, and a strong Hellenistic party emerged. In Judea . . . an anti-Hellenistic party arose which considered the Greek manner of life a threat to Judaism. The emphasis on things material, the nude appearance of athletes in the gymnasium, the neglect of Jewish rites, were regarded as evidence of defection from the law of God” (Ibid. 90).

Do not these happening sound very familiar today? I see a strong parallel between the influence of Greece in the ancient world and America in our own era. Our emphasis seems to be the same as was theirs. Edward J. Young wrote of the development of Hellenism under Antiochus IV (Epiphanes) in his commentary on Daniel.

It was under the reign of Antiochus Epiphanes that the Jews particularly suffered. When he came to the throne the Jews were being subjected to a process of Hellenization, which Antiochus continued. Under the leadership of Joshua, a brother of the high priest Onias III, many of the Jews were willing to fall in line with Antiochus’ policy of Hellenization. By means of a bribe, Joshua, who had changed his name to Jason, induced Antiochus to depose Onias and to place himself in the office of high priest. He immediately set about to permit an influx of Grecian customs, even establishing a gymnasium (an exercise-ground) under the citadel in Jerusalem (303).

Why do we fail to learn lessons from history? What happened in reference to the Hellenizing of the Jews has occurred in the “social gospel” in the church of our Lord in this century. The perceptive student of history cannot help but see that history is “repeating itself” under different labels, yet motivated by the same spirit. John cautioned, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eye, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever” (1 Jn. 2:1517).

Lord, help us to follow Thee being led by Thy Word without addition, subtraction, or alteration. May we ever speak “as the Oracles of God” (1 Pet. 4:11).

Guardian of Truth XXXVI: 6, p. 169
March 19, 1992

By Lewis Willis

Most of us live busy lives which require just about all of our effort to take care of our own business. The increased demands upon our strength and time over the last 25 years have made this problem more critical. It is possible to observe the “wear and tear” in the tired faces of most of us. As we have sought to deal with these increasing demands, I am afraid we might have over looked a very important responsibility we have as Christians.

When it is difficult for us to attend to all of our own duties, it is easy to forget that we have a responsibility to each other that is also important. The Hebrew writer set forth that responsibility in these words: “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works” (Heb. 10:24). The very nature of the statement – the language used – establishes beyond any shadow of doubt that this is a duty, not an optional matter. Therefore, as the Christian contemplates his duty to his own affairs, he must remember and consider others. This is not an obligation to simply think about others, but it sets forth a requirement that we do for them what we can for their good.

This brief article is not intended to catalog specific things we are to do for one another, It is intended to get us to stop and think about the effect we have on others in the things we do, the way we act, and in the things we say. Unless we are thoughtful of others, we will frequently cause them harm by our words and deeds. It would not be possible to meet the demands of Hebrews 10:24 without considering how our lives affect people around us and, in the case of Christians, how we impact other Christians. What do other people think when they look at us?

Would they think that we are arrogant? Proud? Self-righteous? The Word of God says, “Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time” (1 Pet. 5:5-6). Clearly God rejects an arrogant, self-righteous demeanor. It not only looks bad, but it is deceptive. “For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himse1f” (Gal. 6:3). I have met a few Christians who appeared to be as arrogant as they acted. However, most who are charged with this sin just do not realize how they are affecting other people. It is not intentional, but it has the same effect.

The concept of Christianity which many people have is frequently that which they observe in the lives of people they consider to be Christians. It would be a mistake if Christians did not stop to consider that they are having this impact on people around them, especially those who are babes in Christ.

I like these words from the song, “The World’s Bible.” I think they capture for us the essence of our duty to “consider one another.”

We are the only Bible the careless world will read, We are the sinners gospel, we are the scoffers’ creed; We are the Lord’s last message given in deed and word, What if the type is crooked? What if the print is blurred?

Non-Christians look upon us in the way described in the song, and so do some Christians, especially new Christians. Thus, we must consider them in the things we say and do. Unless we are very careful, we might cause them to be disappointed in us, particularly if our conduct is not consistent with what they regard to be proper conduct. If they are struggling with living the Christian life, and if they have looked to us for direction, it would be an easy thing to discourage them by our conduct. It could reach the point that a new Christian could suffer great damage to his faith. On reflection, it should be added that even mature Christians could be hurt in the same way by the conduct of other mature Christians. No one, knowing the will of the Lord (1 Cor. 10:32; Rom. 14:13), wants to do injury to another.

It must be noted that this is “a two-way street. ” We must learn that we are following the Lord, not other Christians. We must remember that people – all people – have problems living righteous lives consistently. All of us sin, and come short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23). A new Christian has no more right to demand perfection of other members of the local church than those members have to demand perfection of the new Christian. We must all try to help each other, because we all need help. This is not an easy lesson to learn, but it is learned when we “consider one another.” What I am saying is that thoughtfulness and consideration must flow from both.

Thus, the warning of God’s Word is before us. No one wants to hurt, disappoint, weaken or destroy another Christian. We want to prompt each other to involve ourselves in things of love and good works. When we become aware that we have adversely affected others, we should strive to correct the matter. If the matter is not correctable, we should resolve that we will not allow it to happen again. One thing that will prevent a breakdown in relationships is to remember we are serving the Lord, living by his Word, trying to learn and we are aware of the imperfections in each other. Then we will all be acting in the interest of the Lord, and of one another.

Guardian of Truth XXXVI: 6, p. 168
March 19, 1992

By Mike Willis

For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead (2 Cor. 5:14).

There are several things which motivate men to obedience to Christ, several of which are mentioned in 2 Corinthians 5. Paul mentioned this things: (a) The expected inheritance of the house not made with hands which is eternal in the heavens (5:1-9); (b) The fear of judgment (5:10); (c) The terror of the Lord (5:11); and (d) The love of Christ (5:14). None of these motivators should be eliminated in our preaching, although in this article, I shall only discuss the motivating power of Christ’s love for us.

The Power of Love

Each of us has seen the motivating power of love on purely human terms. When a young man falls in love with a young lady, his life begins to change. That young man who did not care whether or not he tucked in his shirt or washed his face all of a sudden begins to take baths every time he goes out, pays careful attention to combing his hair, and borrows his dad’s best after shave lotion before leaving home. Although he has no interest in flowers, he will spend the money he made mowing yards to buy a bouquet. He is anxious to go to a movie that you would have had to drag him to just a few months before. He will sometimes act foolishly just to win and keep the attention of his girlfriend.

This same love will cause the young man to marry his lady, get a job, buy a family car (instead of a sports car), and do the duties expected of a husband. Their love for each other will bind their hearts together throughout life and into old age. Then when one becomes ill and unable to care for himself, his mate will dutifully minister to his needs until they are separated by death. This is the motivating power of love. It is stronger than threats of physical violence and inducements based on selfish desires. “For love is strong as death . . . Many waters cannot quench love, neither can the floods drown it: if a man would give all the substance of his house for love, it would utterly be contemned” (Song of Sol. 8:6-7).

God induces men to obedience based on his love for us. He could have used only the threat of eternal damnation to motivate us. He could have appealed only to the bliss of heaven to move us. However, God has sought to win our hearts by his own self-sacrificing love. The love God has for us causes us to understand that all of his commandments are imposed for our own good; hence, they are not grievous and his yoke is not galling (1 Jn. 5:3; Matt. 11:28-30).

Christ’s Love For Us

We are told of God’s great love in John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Christ’s love for us is demonstrated by his willingness to leave heaven and to take upon himself the form of a servant (Phil. 2:5-8). Paul said, “For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich” (2 Cor. 8:9). Christ’s love for us is shown in the incarnation.

Christ’s love for mankind is also shown in his life. Luke tells us that Jesus “went about doing good” (Acts 10:38). When we read of Jesus’ kindnesses to mankind, we are impressed with his love for man.

His death on the cross displays his love for us. He willingly sacrificed his own life in order that we might be saved from sin. Paul marveled about Jesus’ love as he wrote, “. . . because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holly Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom. 5:58).

Dottie Rambo wrote this beautiful tribute to Christ’s love for us.

If That Isn’t Love

He left the splendor of heaven,

Knowing his destiny

Was the lonely hill of Golgotha,

There to lay down his life for me.

Even in death he remembered

The thief hanging by his side;

He spoke with love and compassion

Then he took him to Paradise.

If that isn’t love the ocean is dry,

There’s no star in the sky,

And the sparrow can’t fly!

If that isn’t love then heaven’s a myth,

There’s no feeling like this

If that isn’t love.

Christ’s love for us kindles in our hearts the flame of love for God. “We love him, because he first loved us” (1 Jn. 4:19).

The Constraining Power of Christ’s Love

The love of Christ “constrains” us. The word sunecho means “to urge, impel.” In what ways does Christ’s love motivate us to action?

1. It restrains us from sin. The young man who falls in love with the young lady soon learns that some of his actions cause his girlfriend pain. If he truly loves her, he will quit doing those things which hurt her. Similarly, the Christian recognizes that his sins “grieve” the Holy Spirit (Eph. 4:30). Because of his concern for his relationship with God ‘ his godly sorrow will move him to repentance (2 Cor. 7: 10).

2. It impels him to action. The young man’s love will cause him to do those things which please his girlfriend, whether it be buying her flowers or holding her hand in public. In the same way, Christ’s love for us, which causes our love for Christ, will move us to do those things which please Christ. Even Christ himself did those things which pleased God (Jn. 8:29). The Christian will learn the will of God and do those things which please him, such as worshiping God, teaching the gospel, praying, etc.

3. It causes him to live a life of service to God. Christians are determined to present their bodies as a living sacrifice to God (Rom. 12:1-2). Paul said, “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me” (Gal. 2:20). He also said that “they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again” (2 Cor. 5:15).

Because of his life being devoted to Christ’s service, the Christian is willing to go out on Monday nights to visit the new move-ins, to gather to paint a member’s house, to use his Saturdays to visit sick and shut in folks, to meet together for a work day at the church building, and to use his money to assist someone who is needy. His life is devoted to the service of God.

4. It causes him to sacrifice for the Lord. Christians are willing to make sacrifices for the Lord’s work to prosper. They are willing to suffer the persecution of social ostracism and ridicule (2 Tim. 3:12). They are willing to give up some legitimate pleasures for the greater good of Christ’s kingdom. These sacrifices they gladly make because of their love for Christ.

The World Does Not Understand

Those who have never experienced the constraining power of Christ’s love do not understand why Christians are willing to forego the new car or larger house which they could afford if they did not contribute so much to the church or why they go to worship four services every week and every night during a gospel meeting. They cannot understand why we would believe and teach that there is only one reason for divorce that allows the person the right to remarriage. They cannot conceive that we would be opposed to the lotteries and other forms of gambling. Indeed, they may think that we are crazy. The world did not judge Paul much better. Paul said, “For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause” (2 Cor. 5:13).

Conclusion

Christ’s love is a powerful, driving force in the lives of God’s children. The world is amazed that we would willingly accept the demands of this love. We Christians stand amazed, not at what some of us are willing to give in love to Christ, but that the world can read of Christ’s love for us and then walk away unaffected by his love. Something is truly wrong in the lives of men who witness such wondrous love for us and never reciprocate.

Guardian of Truth XXXVI: 6, pp. 162, 182
March 19, 1992