Truth Magazine

By Tommy L. McClure

The Person Doing the Tempting

1. She was not a common prostitute, but a married wife (vv. 19,20). She was “out on the prowl” while the goodman (her husband) was away on a long journey.

It is evident that she was well-off financially from the manner in which she had decked and perfumed her bed (vv 16,17). She reminds one of Potiphar’s wife who asked Joseph to lie with her, not because of monetary needs but to satisfy her wicked lust (Gen. 39:7-12). Upright people can have more respect, little as that is, for the common prostitute who sells herself to keep body and soul together than for these women! Her husband and neighbors may not have suspected a thing; but, when he was away and the night was black, she went forth playing the harlot, deserting her children (if she had any and had not babied a poodle instead!), betraying the confidence of her husband, contributing to the damnation of a young man’s soul, sinning against God (cf. 8:36), and destroying her own soul (cf. 6:32)!

2. She dressed like a prostitute – “the attire of an harlot” (v. 10). From ancient times, harlots have dressed so as to advertise their profession. Judah mistook his daughter-in-law Tamar for a harlot because of where she sat and how she was dressed (Gen. 38:13-16). “As regards the fashions involved in the practice, similar outward marks seem to have attended its earliest forms to those which we trace in the classical writers, e.g., a distinctive dress and a seat by the way-side” (McClintock & Strong, Article on “Harlot,” Vol. 4, p. 75).

Modern prostitutes dress to accentuate physical endowments and arouse lust. Short, tight, split skirts; tight, low-cut pants and high-cut blouses; the plunging neckline; the cigarette between the fingers and the sauntering walk, are tools of a prostitute’s trade! Regrettably, some women in the church dress the same way; yet, they would be highly offended if compared to the prostitute. Young ladies, if you don’t want to be compared to them, quit using the tools of their trade!

God’s will on women’s dress seems plain enough. “. . . that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefastness and sobriety; not with braided hair, and gold or pearls or costly raiment; but (which becometh women professing godliness) through good works” (1 Tim. 2:9,10, ASV). “Modest (kosmios) denotes “orderly, well-arranged, decent” (Vine 111, 79); “shamefastness” (aidos) means “a sense of shame, modesty” (Ibid., IV, 71); “sobriety” (sophrosune) “denotes soundness of mind . . . ‘sound judgment’ practically expresses the meaning; ‘it is that habitual inner self-government, with its constant rein on all the passions and desires, which would hinder the temptation to these from arising, or at all events from arising in such strength as would overbear the checks and barriers which aids (shamefastness) opposed to it'” (Ibid., IV, 44,45). Instead of a “sense of shame,” the woman of our study had an “impudent face,” rendered “put on a bold brow” (Keil & Delitzsch, v. 13), a demeanor diametrically opposed to a “sense of shame.” There was no sense of shame or blushing in the woman or in her actions and attire. Where is the “decency,” “sense of shame,” and “sound judgment” in the dress described above? Purity of heart will manifest itself in modesty of dress. Ladies, does your dress resemble the attire of an harlot or that of a woman professing godliness?

3. The temptress was crafty and cunning – “subtil of heart” (v. 10). “She is of a hidden mind, of a concealed nature” (Kefl & Delitzsch, v. 10). She likely feigned fidelity to her husband, indicated by her working in darkness instead of light. She flatters her paramours as her only beloved. Note: “Therefore came I forth to meet thee, diligently to seek thy face, and I have found thee” (v. 15). Her use of “thee” and “thy” makes it appear that the young man was the only one for her. The truth was, she loved none of her paramours, but used them only as a means to an end – the indulgence of her sensual desires!

4. She was boisterous and unruly – “loud and stubborn ” (v. 11). The actions and character of this woman were the very opposite of “let a woman learn in quietness with all subjection” (I Tim. 2:11 ASV), “of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price” (1 Pet. 3:4), and the noiseless activity and gentle modesty of a virtuous wife (Prov. 31:10-31). Some wives now remind us of a “loud and stubborn” woman of the text: I speak of those who are all tongue, mouth and noise; who are determined to have their say, right or wrong, no matter where; and, those who are impatient of check and control, despise counsel, and rebel when reproved! Some spineless husbands have timidly let their bossy wives “take over” in the home, and they often try to do so in the church. As to which is worse -spineless husband or bossy wife – I wouldn’t turn around for the difference! Both are wrong (Eph. 5:23-33).

5. She was a gadabout – “her feet abide not in her house” (v. 11). Though her house was well furnished (vv. 16, 17), she evidently hated the confinement and employment of it. Some modern wives are exactly this way. As soon as the husband is off to work and the children are out the door for school, they begin sprucing up (not the house mind you, but their own persons) and are soon “back on the road again,” as the country singer says, busily engaged in the employment they like best – gadding about! Paul said the young women are to be “keepers (workers, ASV) at home” (Tit. 2:5). Of some young widows, he said, “And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not. I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully” (1 Tim. 5:13,14). Matthew Henry well said, “Virtue is a penance to those to whom home is a prison” (Commentary, v. 11). Think about it!

6. She acted contrary to all rules of modesty and decency – “she caught him and kissed him” (v. 13). What a way for a married woman whose husband was away to act on the street in the dark of night! She did this with an “impudent face,” meaning “she hardened her face” (Marg., ASV). It “. . As said of one who shows shamelessness, or, as we say, an iron forehead” (Keil & Delitzsch, v. 13). Like many today, blushing was foreign to her demeanor.

The Temptation Itself – How She Managed It

1. She courted him to eat with her – “I have peace offerings with me” (vv. 14,15). Peace offerings, according to the law, were divided three ways: the fat, kidneys and caul above the liver were God’s (Lev. 3:14-16); the breast and right shoulder went to the priests (Lev. 7:31-34); the rest was for the one who offered the victim (Lev. 7:11-21).

In her reference to peace offerings, she asserts two things: First, her plentiful supply of good provisions. She was evidently attempting to allay any fear on the young man’s part that he would be violently robbed or his pockets be picked. It is sad that what was designed for God’s glory (the peace offering) should be made a tool of sin, but this has often been done (read with understanding Rom. 7:8-13). Second, she asserted her profession of piety (although it was a profession without a possession!). She had been to the temple, so had done her worshipping; she had made her peace offering, a token of peace and reconciliation with God; she had paid her vows, so was relieved of whatever obligations they imposed. Her idea seemed to be, “Whoopee! I have settled my account with God, and am ready for more sin! ” Whatever her thoughts, many obviously think that today! Catholics pay the priest to pray, others come forward for baptism, and some come to confess wrongs, and go their way relieved, with no traceable thought to cessation of the sins.

2. She pretended great affection for him (v. 15). This is indicated by the terms she used. “Therefore” because of the bountiful table for one thing; “came I forth” – she came personally, instead of sending another to bring him; “to meet thee” – not just any man, but him; “I have found thee” – thus complimenting herself on finding him! What follows (vv. 21-23) shows this to be only cheap flattery, designed to get him in her clutches.

This evil woman did two things common to sinners: First, she went to great pains to do her evil work; Second, she pretended to oblige her victim while seeking to destroy him. Bank robbers, communists, anarchists, etc., will spend months, even years, and do whatever is necessary to accomplish their evil purposes. Pretending to oblige the victims began with Satan in Eden (Gen. 3:3,4) and has often been practiced by his servants since (see Ezra 4:1-3; Neh. 6:14; Matt. 2:7-18).

3. She courted him to lie with her (vv. 16-18). First, she tells him of her bed (vv. 16,17). She had prepared it to perfection, so she said! It would please his eye, because decked with coverings of tapestry and carved works; it would pamper his touch, for the sheets were not homespun cloth but fine linen from Egypt; and, it would gratify his smell, being perfumed with myrrh, aloes and cinnamon.

After the beautiful description, she gave the invitation – “Come!” (v. 18). The devil always paints beautiful pictures of those things which will destroy man. Remember the “Man of Distinction” liquor advertisement? There was the beautiful Great Dane lying by the fire in the elaborate fireplace; the handsome man, in his forties perhaps, with slightly greying temples, dressed in an expensive grey suit was standing there with the glass of liquor in his hand – the “Man of Distinction. ” Of course, the other side was never shown – the drunk in the gutter wallowing in his own vomit; the man in the psycho ward screaming and writhing in his delirium tremens; the man on the hospital bed, almost as yellow as an egg yolk, dying with cirrhosis of the liver; the screech on the highway, the clanging of metal, the shattering of glass, the groans and screams of passengers as glass, oil, gasoline, whiskey and blood mingle together! No, that the devil never shows! He covers it up with his beautiful, hypocritical picture, saying, “Come! Partake! Enjoy!”

Note the woman’s use of the word “love” (v. 18). She means gratification of brutish lust! But, sinners seldom correctly label sin. Infidelity is called “free thought”; fornication is termed “a good time”; digression is called “progress”; obscenity is labeled “art”; and, communistic infiltration is palmed off on an unsuspecting public as “academic freedom”! But, as this young man learned (vv. 22,23), changing the label does not lessen the poison; it only increases the likelihood of its consumption!

4. She anticipates and removes his objections (vv. 19,20). She anticipates the question: “What if your husband catches us? Where will be the ‘solace’ then?” (cf. 6:32-35) In her answer, she calls him “goodman” not “husband.” She ignores the relation of love and duty in which she is placed to him, and speaks of him as one standing at a distance from her” (Keil & Delitzsch, v. 19). Compare the way Potiphar’s wife referred to her husband (Gen. 39:14). Contrast Leah’s reference to Jacob (Gen. 29:32). She also anticipates his thinking: “But what if he returns tonight?” Her answer (vv. 19b, 20) assures him that he went on a “long journey,” so can’t possibly return tonight; he “hath taken a bag of money,” going supplied for a long stay; and, he “will come home at the day appointed,” for he always returns when he says he will, and that is not tonight! Her implication: “Don’t fear; he won’t surprise us; Come, enjoy!”

The Success of the Temptation (vv. 21-23)

The text gives three things which contributed directly to his fall: (a) Her much fair speech” (v. 21). This consisted of her description of provisions she had made (table and bed), her mention of pleasures they would enjoy, and her assurance of impunity. This is the general pattern of all deceivers – provisions, pleasures, impunity! In the case of the devil and Eve (Gen. 3:1-6), the good food was the provision; picking and eating such beautiful fruit, the pleasure; “ye shall not surely die . . . ye shall be as gods” expressed the deceptive impunity. With the chief priests and watchmen (Matt. 28:11-14), “large money” was the provision; things it would buy, the pleasure; and, “if this come to the governor’s ears, we will persuade him and secure you,” the expressed impunity. Modern examples include: the dope-ring recruiting peddlers, communists enlisting dupes, atheists captivating souls, and denominationalists making converts. No wonder so much is said against fair speech and smooth words (Psa. 55:20,21; Prov. 5:3-5; Rom. 16:17,18; cf. 1 Cor. 2:4). (b) “The flattering of her lips” (v. 21). As already observed, this consisted in giving him the impression that she had made all these provisions just for him, and he was the only one she cared for. Flattery has two major ingredients: self-interest (Prov. 29:5) and deception (Psa. 12:2), both wrong! (c) His own stupidity and ignorance (vv. 22,23). He is described by three figures: the ox, unconscious that he is being led to his death; the fool (one bereft of reason), unconscious of being led to confinement; and, a bird, unconscious that it is paying its life for one tiny morsel. How ignorant! Stupid! Pitiful! Only those who sneer at the warning and indulge anyway could be more so!

What a downfall it was for this young man! He has started on a course that he may never be able to terminate (cf. 2 Pet. 2:14), one that opens the door to other vices, produces remorse in the soul, debauches the conscience (see 1 Tim. 4:2), brings dishonor to one’s name (but, Prov. 22: 1), may bring disease to his body, and will bring endless damnation to his soul (1 Cor. 6:9,10; Gal. 5:19-21; Rev. 21:8). “He goes to the slaughter; for houses of uncleanness are slaughterhouses to precious souls” (Matthew Henry).

Solomon’s Application of the Story (vv. 24.27)

1. Hearken to the right one – “unto me” (v. 24). It is not enough to merely hearken; the young man did that, but listened to the wrong one. Others who have made the same mistake include: Eve (Gen. 3), the young prophet (1 Kgs. 13:11-24), and the Israelites who listened to the pessimistic, unbelieving spies (Num. 13:17-33). The majority of the world have their ears turned in the wrong direction now toward skepticism instead of firm belief, toward social benefits instead of spiritual benefits and strength, vice rather than virtue, communistic propaganda rather than responsible freedom, and doctrines of men instead of the word of God. The Lord’s instruction is: “Take heed what you hear” (Mk. 4:24). The soul’s welfare depends on the what and the who of our hearing!

2. Take good counsel when it is given (v. 25). He counsels to guard two things: (a) The heart – “let not thine heart decline to her ways. ” Wishing for her and her ways is to have the mind in the lowest gutter. “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life” (Prov. 4:23). (b) The actions are to be guarded – “go not astray in her paths. ” To indulge is to go astray; to go astray is to be lost. No better counsel can be given and every young man desperately needs to heed it.

3. Take fair warning when it is given (vv. 26, 27). Look back on the ruin she has wrought (v. 26). Her victims are “many” – not merely one here and there; “yea many strong men” – not just a few weak and simple ones. Hence, great care must be exercised. Look forward to the end of her evil course (v. 27). Her house is the way to hell (Sheol) corresponding to Hades in the N.T. (Vine 11, 187), where the rich man was tormented (Lk. 16:23). It leads to the “chambers of death” – i.e., “to the extreme depths of death” (Keil & Delitzsch, v. 27).

Conclusion

Since the cup of fornication must shortly be changed for the cup of suffering (Rev. 21:8), let all “flee fornication” (1 Cor. 6:18). “Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart” (2 Tim. 2:22). “Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee” (1 Tim. 4:16).

(Note: The writer in indebted to Matthew Henry for the framework and many of the thoughts expressed in this lesson. TLM.)

Guardian of Truth XXXIII: 11, pp. 326-328
June 1, 1989

By John A. Smith

As Christians we have a unique opportunity to touch the lives of others. It has rightly been said that Christianity is a “One-Another” religion. We are not to look out merely for our own personal interests, “but also for the interest of others” (Phil. 2:4). The practicing of “One-Another Religion” – looking out for the interests of others – should lead us to be involved in the lives of others and in our communities.

The Proverbs writer saw the benefit that active righteous people could have in their communities and declared them to be a blessing. “When it goes well with the righteous, the city rejoices; and when the wicked perish, there is shouting. By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted, but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked” (Prov. 11:10-11). “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people” (Prov. 14:34). In order for this blessing to be experienced, the righteous must let their presence be known. There is no blessing when the righteous sit idly by and keep their influence to themselves.

Jesus acknowledged the beneficial influence of the righteous when, at the conclusion of the “Beatitudes,” he declared that those who possess these characteristics should also exhibit them. He declared that they are the “salt of the earth” and the “light of the world” (Matt. 5:13-16). He further said that we are not to “light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lamp stand. . . Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matt. 5:15-16).

Jesus calls upon the righteous to uncork their salt shakers and let their savor be known. Just as salt was an indispensable household commodity in Palestine, so Jesus declares that the children of God are equally indispensable in their communities. They can be more than a savoring influence. They can also be a “moral disinfectant” in communities which would otherwise be left to degenerate values. Christ-like people need to look beyond themselves to the interests of others and the community and let their savoring disinfectant be effective.

As lights of the world, we do not produce light ourselves. But as “moons” we merely reflect the light of the Son to the darkened earth. Many of our communities are starved and groping for this guiding light. As “reflections of the Savior” the righteous need to put their light in a conspicuous place to “give light to all who are in the house” to the glory of the Father. As Christians we must be involved people.

A Christian’s involvement in neighborhoods, communities and schools should come from a sincere love for others and the saving of their souls. One of the characteristics of love which Paul mentions in 1 Corinthians 13:5 is an interest in others. Because he loved others Paul said that he was willing to “spend and be spent” (1 Cor. 12:15). Motivated by a desire to save souls, Paul sought not his own but other’s well-being and not his own profit but the profit of many “that they may be saved” (1 Cor. 10:24,33). Involvement with others will open doors of opportunity, which otherwise might never open, whereby we may reach them with the Gospel.

Involvement with others, “salt shaking,” and “light-shining” will also provide the Christian with opportunities to glorify God. Our lights are to shine for that very purpose (Matt. 5:16). If we are actively involved with others doing good work, “they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God” (1 Pet. 2:12).

Christ-like people should find no lack of motivation for involvement and community service.

Applications

One Christian stepped forward in a local school district to volunteer his service on a citizen’s committee which was to draft a “Family Life” (sex education) program. As a result of his efforts, that program is being built upon solid biblical morals and not the permissive values of groups like Planned Parenthood. In the philosophy statement which he helped to draft, abortion is condemned, pre-marital sexual abstinence is promoted, and contraception is to be taught only within the context of marriage. Christians can have an impact!

All over the country I hear of parents working wit Little League Baseball, Soccer, local schools and other agencies who successfully keep these activities from interfering with mid-week Bible studies. There are those who work tirelessly to help promote modest apparel for sports and school activities. Those who help see that creationism gets a fair shake in classrooms provide a much needed service. I am always encouraged to hear of godly parents who volunteer their time as coaches and team-parents thereby having an opportunity to interject spiritual values into these activities. God bless these active, “one-another,” “light-shining” people! Our communities need more of them.

Others are serving in more quiet and less noticeable ways. Many of God’s children all across the country are involved in helping elderly neighbors, caring for the sick, visiting nursing homes, helping provide for the less fortunate, and countless other thoughtful ways. They make themselves available to neighbors for any service that they might be able to render. They are truly a blessing and servant of others.

It is my prayer that more Christians would see the need for community involvement and use their God-given talents for the service of others. May we all have the spirit of our Lord and see ourselves as those who have “not come to be served, but to serve.”

Guardian of Truth XXXIII: 11, pp. 321, 340
June 1, 1989

By Jimmy Tuten

Introduction:

1. In the early ’60s Prime Minister Harold McMillan of England said: “The winds of change are blowing across the face of the earth.” How right he was!

a. It is staggering to pause and contemplate the changes that have taken place in our generation. All the changes in generations past fade into insignificance when compared to those that have taken place in this ,century in which we live.

b. Everything about us changes; only change itself is unchanging. Truly “the changelessness of change” is ever before us.

2. There are some things that never change: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today, yea and forever” (Heb. 13:8). Our Lord never changes! Yet, in this rapid-moving world, faith in God, faith in his Son Jesus Christ, and faith in the inspiration of the Bible and loyalty to the church of our Lord are no longer points of permanence in the minds of modern man.

a. How refreshing, how like a drink of cool water in the heat of the day are these words, “Jesus Christ, the same.”

b. The kingdoms of this world have come and gone, but Jesus is the same. From eternities of old he has gazed in eternal majesty upon the efforts of men to lift themselves up, only to mark their fall by his eternal wisdom.

c. Tons of earthly surface through the ages have been washed from the hills to fill the valleys. Rock have been eaten away by the elements of nature, but our Lord changes not.

3. “Jesus is the same yesterday. ” How far back does that take us?

a. Back before the seas or mountains, before the first sunrise, or the first bird raised its voice in melodious harmony, Jesus was there.

b. He stands in the midst of eternity and grasps the past and the future to weld them together into an everlasting span. He precedes history, for he is eternal (Jn. 5:58).

4. Yet, the historical Christ is the greatest fact of all time. The Christ of yesterday is our Lord and Savior today.

a. But before he could meet our problems, direct our lives and plead our case with Jehovah, he was “born after the flesh” (Gal. 4:4,23-24).

b. Hence our subject: “Mary’s Child, God’s Son” (Lk. 1:31; Jn. 1:1).

5. How natural it is to love a baby. But the baby Jesus is the only one ever loved more than any other, even our own.

Body:

I. Less we in thoughtlessness lose sight of the significance of Christ’s birth, we need to consider the words of the prophet Isaiah (Isa. 9:6-7).

A. “A child is born. ” But, more than this: a son is given (Jn. 3:16).

1. Earthly sons are not given, they are conceived. Hence our text foreshadowed the mystery of the incarnation.

2. This prophecy was given many times before: in Eden (Gen. 3:15), a virgin conceiving (Isa. 7:14), etc.

B. The Old Testament promise is often noted in the New Testament.

1. Hebrews 2:14 – “Partakers” (sharers) in flesh and blood (Gr. koinoneo, have in common). Jesus “took part” (Gr. metecho, became a partner with) in the same (Phil. 2:5-8).

2. Galatians 4:4 – “Made of a woman.” This is the only time that such a reference is made: he was not conceived, but made.

C. Genesis 3:15. This cannot be relegated to myth, allegory or poem. Yet, some in the church agree witiv. such statements as: “The Biblical myths that ChriKtians deal with are familiar: the ‘paradise story, Adam and Eve, the Fall, the Flood, the Tow~i of Babel, the miracles, the resurrection, and ascension. These are myths to be solved for a myth is a combination of symbols pointing to an ultimate concern” (The United Church Herald, Mar. 9, 1961, p. 15). Brethren Dr. Neal Buffaloe, John Clayton, etc. are examples of those who treat the book of Genesis as containing things that “never were.”

1. Is the book of Genesis literal and historical, or mythological and allegorical? If we are unwilling to accept Genesis 1-11I as historical then we would have to reject:

a. Any biblical concept of the origin of man.

b. The unity and harmony of the Old and New Testaments.

c. God’s personal design of the plan of salvation.

d. The sonship of Jesus.

e. The truthfulness of the writers of the Bible.

f. The overall authority of the Word of God.

2. “One who doubts the Genesis account will not be the same man he once was, for his attitude toward Holy Scripture has been eroded by false teaching. Genesis is repeatedly referred to in the New Testament, and it cannot be separated from the total Christian message” (Richard Culp, Remember Thy Creator, pp. 160-161).

D. Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever!

II. The Holy Angel’s Explanation to Mary (Lk. 1:30-35).

A. Mary’s child was God’s Son, with whom she went down to the gates of death and came up bearing in her arms -Immanuel!

B. Several thousand years of prophecy were fulfilled in that hour.

C. Deity entered human history and the hearts of mankind through the gateway of a virgin’s womb. What a birthday that was and yet, nowhere are we ever instructed to observe it (i.e., in Scripture). It is the death of our Lord in the Lord’s Day communion that we are commanded to keep.

D. Those who saw him saw God. Those who today know him know God!

1. His birth promised creation’s rebirth.

2. His death promised its redemption.

3. His resurrection promised its glory.

4. His ascension guarantees its eternity.

5. His return will complete it.

E. Therefore, wise men came to worship him and wise men still do.

III. His Birth Changed the Calendar. Why?

A. God promised him.

B. Angels announced him.

C. Faith expected him (Anna and Simeon).

D. Sin needed him.

Conclusion:

1. Jesus touches the human heart in his cradle. His very name was a sign (Lk. 1:30-33, “Jesus,” i.e., Jehovah is salvation).

2. Jesus touches the sinner only through the cross (1 Cor. 15:1-6).

3. God’s greatest gift was not his Son in the manger, but his Son on the cross!

4. Gal. 2:20; Rom. 6:1-6, this initial forgiveness of sin is a part of a more complete process known as conversion, or the new birth:

a. Jn. 3:3-6, “born of the water and the Spirit” – enter the kingdom.

b. Matt. 18:3, “converted . . . as a little child” – enter the kingdom.

c. Matt. 7:21, “doeth the will of my Father” – enter the kingdom.

5. “By grace are ye saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God” (Eph. 2:8).

“Tho’ a thousand times in Bethlehem, Jesus born should be, the love of God can ne’er be felt, Till Christ be born in thee! “

6. Ye must be born again (Jn. 3).

(Credit is due to Sermon Outlines by Harry Rimmer.)

Guardian of Truth XXXIII: 11, pp. 330-331
June 1, 1989

By Hal Snyder

The Great Commission requires that Christ’s disciples teach others (Matt. 28:19-20; Mk. 16:15-16; also read Jn. 6:45). Christianity is certainly a “taught” religion. People will not be converted without teaching, for none will be saved against their will or by accident (Acts 2:40; Heb. 5:9). And, no one can remain faithful as a child of God without continuing to learn (2 Pet. 3:18). So long as we may live, we must keep on studying, learning, living, and teaching the word of God (Gal. 6:9).

The church’s primary mission is to save the lost (Lk. 19:10). This is accomplished by evangelizing (Acts 20:20), edifying (Eph. 4:11-16), and ministering to the saints (2 Cor. 9:1).

Our teaching involves saint and sinner alike – people learn from what we both say and do (Matt. 5:16).

Consider how the church teaches people:

1. From the pulpit. Still this is the most powerful means of emphasizing the word of God. It has the advantage of teaching many at one time (many can be persuaded by the same words) and people are in attendance because they choose to be there. But there are some disadvantages, too. The preacher relies on his judgment (or that of the elders) in the selection of material to be presented. Unfortunately such may not be what everyone needs and there is no opportunity to deal with questions or problems of audience. Yet pulpit preaching remains an effective means of reaping the fruits of the labors of the entire congregation.

2. Personal evangelism. This allows everyone in the congregation to get involved (not so much a collective work of the church, rather work by individual Christians – see Acts 5:42). This is the most effective method of teaching because it allows the teacher to deal with questions when they arise and many personal problems or misunderstandings can be dealt with immediately. No doubt this is the most effective way of reaching people with the gospel of Christ.

3. Bible classes. This is one of the most effective means of teaching. Most agree that 90 percent of our conversions come as a result of such public teaching. Its advantages are that many people can be taught the same thing at one time; it is a more direct method of teaching than from the pulpit; and the teacher can deal with questions as they arise. But the most serious disadvantage of this method lies in the fact that we can only teach those who are present (Acts 10:33). And often something else is needed to get people there in the first place.

4. Printed page. There is tremendous power in the printed page, be it a newspaper, periodical, or tract. One can study thoroughly the subject at hand; study can be accomplished at the reader’s convenience (when they are in the proper frame of mind); and it is comparatively inexpensive. To be effective, the printed message must be a high-quality product, well-written, and attractive to the eye. But, only where the interest has been aroused will the message be effective. Also the printed material should be given to the right person, in the right way, at the right time. Remember that tracts are effective, particularly in visitation work.

5. Electronic media. The mass media (especially radio and television) can be a means of reaching many people at the same time with a common message. In overall cost and potential audience it is relatively inexpensive at the per listener/viewer rate. On the other hand, it is all too easy to just turn off the radio or TV, or to even change stations/channels. These methods are not as effective because the message is not as direct. The mass media are best utilized to make contacts, which makes any follow-up work (personal visits) imperative. Remember that the one-on-one teaching is the most-effective. Any preaching by this method should involve the interests of the entire congregation. Members of the congregation know the interests and needs of their friends, neighbors, and relatives. This way members, of the congregation can talk to them about the broadcast (subject, questions about the topic, or what was or wasn’t said) in an attempt to involve the contact in the personal evangelism process, invite them to Bible study and/or worship services or, perhaps, give them a tract.

Whatever method we employ, our efforts are concentrated on taking the message to them – that’s the “go” part of Matthew 28:19.

Guardian of Truth XXXIII: 10, p. 308
May 18, 1989