Landmark Baptist

     How do we know that Jesus was the Christ? Through the study of history can be one answer. It is a matter of genealogy. Jesus was the direct descendant of Abraham through David, etc. In the fullness of time Jesus was born of Mary, who was the rightful heir to the throne of Israel, all the synoptists say so. Well, let’s see.

     The genealogy of Matthew and Luke agree from Abraham to David. Then from Solomon to Zerubbabel and then to Christ comes some difficulty in accounting for the variations, which are considerable. (editor’s note: Bro. Harless listed both genealogies side by side, which does a good job of showing the graphic differences. We could not print it due to lack of space, but please refer to the lists in your Bibles.)

     “And a man shall be as a hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land.” Isaiah 32:2.

     Men are seeking that which is secure, safe and long lasting. This is natural and something we all desire. But if our hope is in earthly pomp we are of all men most miserable for that which is long lasting and safe is not of this world. “Of old hast thou laid the foundation of the earth: and the heavens are the work of thy hands. They shall perish, but thou shalt endure: yea, all of them shall wax old like a garment; as a vesture shalt thou change them, and they shalt be changed; but thou are the same, and thy years shall have no end.

     The Central Association has recommended that we change the Articles of Faith. They have told the churches that they need to be “refined” and “defined” The stated reasons are to vanquish doctrinal obscurity, promote harmony in the work, aid in the growth of the Association and increase mission support and participation. It is apparent the main issue is that by changing the Articles of Faith, it would stop “new” doctrines from coming into our work.

   Yes!                                                                No!
by Elder Roy W. Culley – Henderson, TX               by Elder Rick Howard – Modesto, CA
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The Landmark Chronicles
November, 1996

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Saint to Saint - by Elder Rick Howard

     I fully believe that a going church will be a growing church and that even though that growth may not always be seen in numbers, that it is frequently so. I believe on the other hand that our thoughts may become so fixed on numerical increase, that our vision as preachers or as witnessing members of our churches may be seriously restricted, so that we never see the need of those who are not prospects for our church pews. When we say "God give us a vision" or "Where there is no vision the people perish," do we mean only a vision of a large auditorium filled with people? Please understand that I do not object to such a vision. I do believe though that we need a greater one, one that goes beyond the pew and over the wall.

SCRIPTURAL FRUITFULNESS

     It is said of Joseph in Gen. 49:22, "Joseph is a fruitful bough, even a fruitful bough by a well; WHOSE BRANCHES RUN OVER THE WALL: The archers have sorely grieved him, and shot at him, and hated him: but his bow abode in strength, and the arms of his hands were made strong by the hands of the mighty God of Jacob;…"

     Recently a subject has come up which I never believed possible among our Baptists.

     There are some today that are telling preachers where they can and cannot preach, as though they had jurisdiction.

     In my earliest preachers’ classes the thing I was most strongly exhorted, was that if I was a God-called preacher, I would preach anywhere and every time asked. I was to preach to every creature, even it’ it was on a street corner, or to a rest home with 12 seniles in attendance, or even to heretical groups. I was counseled to attend every meeting, class, debate that I could, even go to meetings where I might not agree, because I would learn, learn, learn.

     The term "born again" is a proper Bible term that describes what takes place when a person believes in Jesus Christ as personal Saviour. This article is to set forth this writer's viewpoint and prove by the scripture that the age old Baptist position is correct.

     The expression dealing with the new birth will be referred to in context and considered in English and Greek. John Chapter three is a primary text tor this writing. Jesus is speaking to a man who did not recognize Him as the Messiah of God. In John 3:3 Jesus said to Nicodemus, "Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." The expression "born again" is from the Greek ANOTHEN, which means "from above." The following verses and context will prove that this is a spiritual birth from God and is a direct result of repentance and believing.

WE BELIEVE the whole Bible is the inspired Word of God. Adam was created as a full grown man and from Adam and Eve came the whole human race. Adam sinned against God deliberately and every descendant of Adam is born in sin with one exception and that was Jesus Christ who was born of the Holy Spirit to a virgin mother without the aid of a man. By the grace of God He has accepted the sacrifice of the sinless life of His only begotten Son, Jesus, as full payment for the sins of all believers who repent of their sins and by faith come to God for redemption.

     The Universal Church has taken its toll on scriptural churches. Up until the Great Reformation of Luther, Zwingli, Huss and Jerome {most of them were unhappy Catholic priests}, the Roman Catholic Church stood alone in the Protestant arena. She had protested against those true churches from Jerusalem to Macedonia and all through Asia Minor. Many of them were organized by Paul. The problem with those sound churches came from the big boys in Rome. The Roman Church had gained wealth and popularity in the mid-east and was ready to exercise her power over the small local churches; a Convention-like atmosphere. For over a century they killed and terrorized those sound in the faith.

     On Saturday, July 19, leaders from sister churches around the state gathered at the Liberty MBC of San Fernando to discuss ideas and offer encouragement for church growth. This meeting proved to be stimulating and informative.

     The question “what is landmarkism?” came up at Liberty’s Bible Conference and I attempted then to answer it very briefly. This is a good question, because I believe we broaden the answer too much and try to include all our pet subjects in the list. We take the Articles of Faith, then add a bunch of other items we personally deem important. If the brother disagrees with us on most any point, we either brand him a heretic or at least question whether he is a “real” Baptist or not and declare loudly, “I won’t fellowship that teaching” whatever that means.

     I was recently speaking with a fellow preacher from a sister church about this paper and he said he enjoyed it, but then asked, “Where are all these Protestants you keep talking about in the paper?” In his mind, our concern that Protestant, universalist teachings have infiltrated the pulpits and Bible classes in Landmark churches was not true. Interestingly, I then spoke to another fellow preacher of another sister church (both in the A.B.A.) who was quite concerned because his Pastor allowed a Protestant Baptist preacher to preach in their pulpit and had lead the church to send this man financial support. I then heard second hand that a prominent ABA leader had recently said that in his view many ABA churches are way too loose and Protestant minded for him. Then, we get a letter from a sister church asking to be dropped from our mailing list, stating that they are not part of the kind of audience we are trying to reach.

     “Come out of her, my people, lest you share in her sins and lest you receive of her plagues.” Rev. 18:4 This “voice from heaven” instructing, even ordering, God’s people to immediately and permanently separate from the harlot and especially her children needs to be heard loud and clear today. He would not tell us to “come out” unless we were already too far in! God says many things to us in great seriousness, but unless we have “ears to hear what the Spirit says unto the churches“, we will fall into deception of the Protestant children of Rome.

"...but concerning the election..." (Rom.11:28)

"Knowing, beloved brethren, your election by God." (1Thes.1:4)

     The Bible is a unified book, with the subject of ELECTION as a CENTRAL cord, tying many various subjects together. I read an article which said, "I see election, election, election from Genesis to Revelation." That statement is true - God, as Sovereign, has chosen (or elected) the purpose for His creation and His ELECTIVE purpose will be carried out! Election is the "eternal purpose" of God (Eph.3:11), being carried out in His own way and time. We could say that election is the purpose PLANNED; the covenants are the purpose EXPLAINED and the kingdom is the purpose REALIZED, so a unity from beginning to end.

     In 2Peter 1:10-11, "election" and the "kingdom" are linked together. This is because election, the kingdom and the covenants are intertwined, as described above. In 1Thes.2:12, we are told our "calling" is "into His kingdom and glory." We shall see that God’s elective purposes will be most fully realized in the kingdom, being supported on the foundation of the covenants, esp. the Abrahamic Covenant. The important thing to note here, though, is that God has elected some things and some people, and their fulfillment is based on His faithfulness. (Rom.11:29; 2Tim.2:13)

     I would like to proceed by the means of the following points:

     In a recent article I submitted for publication in The Landmark Chronicles entitled, “The Presbyterian Connection,” several main points were made:

(1) That our Baptist heritage and the record of the sacrifice and suffering of our forefathers is not the private property of a few people who act as though they alone know and appreciate our history.

(2) That articles of faith are of great value to us, but being the instruments of men, they are not to be regarded as infallible or revered as sacred.

Covenant Theology vs Dispensationalism
by Elders K.D. Ward and Mike Maney
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The Landmark Chronicles
November, 1994

     Most of us know quite well the benefits of regular exercise and proper diet. The benefits mentally and physically are self-evident when we put forth the energy and effort into them. That’s why most of us have started (and stopped) exercise and diet programs many times. For some reason, after we experience some of the good results, we slip back into old harmful patterns of eating all the wrong things and lazing out instead of exercising. It usually takes us having a health scare or just feeling rotten to shake us up enough to do what we knew was best all along.

     I have used this word at Liberty to try and help the members understand Bible terminology and concepts. I have heard others use this also, most notably Bro. K.D. Ward. I believe it to be a great word, a very important word, to help us grasp seeming discrepancies and contradictions in the Bible. What do I mean by this?

     “Dimension” is a way to show that a word or subject has broadness to it, a depth, length and width. In other words, three dimensional rather than one dimensional.

     What is doctrine? When we speak of doctrine, many, if not most Baptists, think of the items often referred to as “basic” or “cardinal” doctrines. Normally these will be listed as the doctrines of baptism, the Lord‘s supper, local church and perpetuity of the church. These are certainly important and essential doctrines, but does this cover it? Some seem to think that we only need to worry about these “basic” doctrines to be satisfactory in the Lord‘s sight, to be in the Bride, and to receive the inheritance.

     But what is doctrine? Doctrine is simply teaching, or that which is taught. If doctrine is that which is taught, then would it not be correct to say that everything that is taught in the Word of God is doctrine that needs to be adhered to if we are to receive the inheritance from our Father?

     The Bible clearly presents the fact that God keeps a record and that man will be held accountable for his actions. Malachi 3:16 says, “Then those who feared the Lord spoke to one another, and the Lord gave attention and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for those who fear the Lord and who esteem His name.” Obviously He keeps a record for those who belong to Him in covenant relationship, that is, those who are a pan of His Church today and are serving Him faithfully. Consider also that the eleventh chapter of Hebrews is a record of Old Testament people who were faithful servants and clearly did esteem His name. This article will present a few of the many scriptures that give evidence that God keeps a record.

     “And this is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent” (Jn.17:3). Israel was in a low spiritual slump when Jesus came. Mt.4:16 says, “The people who sat in darkness saw a great light and upon those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned.”

     The word rendered “eternal” in Jn.17:3 is the adjective form of AION, which means a piece of time which may be long or limited in duration. “The length of the AION depends on the subject to which it is attached” (Vincent Word Studies). The adjective form AIONIOS carries also the idea of the character and quality of life or circumstances within time.

     "To whom will you liken me make me equal, and compare me, that we may be alike....for I am God and there none else; I am God and there is like me." Isa. 46:5,9.

     What is your concept of God? In order to attempt to understand him, to what or whom do you compare him? Today, men say that God is whatever you conceive him to be in your own mind, but God is not the result of man's philosophical reasoning, or thinking, neither was God created by man for man's own purpose or need. Theologians nor text books will lead us to any help concerning God. If we would know anything about God, we must learn it from his Word, the Bible, the absolute truth.

     Men would try to make God to be an abstract concept and not a real living person. Some will say God is simply a ruling force or energy in the universe and completely ignore his supreme sovereignty and existence.

It is God which worketh in you both to will and to do His good pleasure. (Phil 2:13) His works are complete, perfect, and eternal. Job in his answer to Bildad in chapter nine said, v:3 “If he/man contend with Him/God, he cannot answer Him one in a thousand.” Enter into a debate with God and you will lose every time. v:4 “He is wise in heart, and mighty in strength: who hath hardened himself against Him and hath prospered?” v:10 “Which doeth great things past finding out; yea, and wonders without number.” Paul to the Roman Church 11:33 also said, “O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out!” David said, “Many O Lord my God are thy wonderful works which thou hast done, and thy thoughts which are to usward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: if I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered.” (Ps. 40:5)

Text: Luke 9:49-50

"And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad him,
because he followeth not with us. And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not: for he that is not against us is for us."

This passage is apparently one of the ‘go-to’ verses used by the religious world to try to prove that Jesus taught that we should all “just get along”. These folks would have us to believe that doctrinal differences mean nothing and that all that really matters is that we love Jesus. It is my contention that, although we live in a dispensation of grace and enjoy the freedoms of such, we still have teachings that we are to live by. True Christianity is not a free-for-all where everyone gets to approach God in any manner they desire. Jesus said in John 15:14 “ye are my friends if ye do whatsoever I command you”. Yes, in the context of the verse, Jesus is referring to loving one another as he loves us. However, remember also that Jesus said in John 14:15 “if ye love me, keep my commandments”. World religious organizations would have us to believe that love alone is all we need in order to please God. If this is true then we might as will throw out the rest of the New Testament, ignoring the writings of Paul, Peter, James, etc. The contention that in Luke 9, Jesus is telling us that we are to bury our doctrinal differences is erroneous and here is why:

Job 12:11

"Doth not the ear try words? And the mouth taste his meat?"

     In Job's answer to Zophar he draws a parallel between eating and hearing. We all taste food to see if we like it and we often taste it very cautiously. If something is sour or bitter, or disagreeable to our taste, we spit it out and will have nothing to do with it. From that time forward we know to keep away from such foods (meat) because we know that we do not like it.

     So we are very careful about what we eat and even taste. How much more careful we should be when it comes to hearing. Common sense should teach us to stay away from the lying or gossiping tongue and the Spirit through the Word warns us of this. Such will lead us into error, trouble and judgement. One who sows discord among the brethren is an abomination to God. Paul says the liar will "not inherit the Kingdom of God." Those who speak not the truth cause many to stumble and can lead some to hell by false doctrine. As we spit out distasteful foods so we should also "spit out" that which is not truth. Things not of God or from God must be rejected, first by God's people, so that the message we carry to the world will be pure.

Romans 11:13

     Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from the NASB. In this context, Paul is discussing the situation of Israel, and how he exalted his position as apostle to the Gentiles in order to provoke the Jews to jealousy in the hope that they would be saved from their corrupt and outmoded religion to serve the Lord of the New Covenant. Paul rated his ministry very highly. In this verse he says, “I glorify my ministry,” the literal rendering. The KJV translates it, “I magnify mine office,” and the NASB, “I glorify my ministry.” Paul considered his position as a calling of the highest order. I believe we can properly apply this same thought to the position of pastor today. It is a calling of the highest order and worth of being magnified, or glorified. The position of pastor has been progressively downgraded over the years until in many cases pastors are considered mere employees of the churches. Even the IRS is trying to have all pastors treated as employees for tax purposes. From God’s point of view, pastors are His employees, not the churches’. While pastors generally are members of the churches they serve, they are more than members. Yes, the church I pastor voted me in, and they can vote me out of the office. But I think they realize that they had better check with God before taking such an action. Pastors are not dictators who can push churches around, but they are not to be taken lightly, either.

     "A dream comes through the multitude of business; and a fool's voice is known by a multitude of words" Eccl.5:3

     It was in the 1960's that civil rights activist Martin Luther King, Jr. made his famous speech that centered around his statement: "I have a dream." Whatever our opinion may be of Mr. King, we would probably agree that he worked fervently toward his goal. It is a real necessity that God's people have goals or visions, or "dreams" as they are called by Solomon in Eccl.5:3. As Solomon says our dreams or goals do not come true by simply talking about them; this is the voice of a "fool", or the simple-minded. Dreams or goals come by working toward them, "the multitude of business." Paul told the Colossian church: "Whatever you do, do it heartily, as unto the Lord." Putting all our strength, our heart into something will see it accomplished.

     The seduction of false religion is an old problem, as old as man himself. Cain brought an offering to God that was not acceptable and God rejected that offering. We see that even at this early time, man was trying to create a religious practice more to his liking than to the liking of God. This practice however, was contrary to God’s instructions. The Bible records for us in Genesis that God had said to Cain, “if you do well, will you not be accepted?” God had obviously given them instructions on how to bring an acceptable offering.

II Cor. 4:3

     The hidden things belong to God. Moses expressed to Israelthis important truth in (Deut. 29:29.) “Secret things belong unto the Lord our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and our children for ever.” Though Moses is speaking of the Law, the truth of it applies to all that God reveals to man in the scriptures. The things which are revealed are not suppose to be hidden. “But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through His name.” (John 20:31)

Introduction

     Is it true that the Scriptures were inspired by the Holy Spirit? Is it true that the Scriptures were made up of many individually inspired words and phrases which all fit together to form one singular plan and purpose? Is it also true that the definitions of these terms are important if one is to understand God’s plan and purpose? Missionary Baptists seem to think so. Yet, there is a problem.

     According to Brother Ben M. Bogard, in his Bible Analysis chart, the Devil is a miracle worker. Some good evidence is given from both the Old and New Testaments. The Old Testament proof given is Exodus chapters 7 and 8, specifically verses 11 and 22 of ch. 7 and verse 7 of ch. 8. There, Pharaoh’s magicians were able to duplicate the miraculous signs of Moses and Aaron. The New Testament proofs put forth are both in the book of Revelation. First, Rev.13:13-14, "He performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men. And he deceives those who dwell on the earth by those signs which he was granted to do in the sight of the beast, telling those who dwell on the earth to make an image to the beast who was wounded by the sword and did live." We find earlier in this chapter that the beast and false prophet get their power from "the dragon," vs. 2. Therefore, Satan is the real power behind the throne. The other proof verse in Revelation is ch. 16, vs. 14, "For they are spirits of demons, performing signs, which go out to the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty." These signs are attributed to demons, who are controlled by Satan.

Is the “Temple of God” Our Physical Body or the Church?
From Both Sides
by Elders Bill Gurnett and Rick Howard

Dear Editor,

     I must write and express to you my utter shock to know that for the last 20 years I have been preaching and teaching “profound error.” I am referring to the article that appeared in the December 1993 issue of “The Landmark Chronicles,” by Bro. Andy Harless entitled, “I’m Not a Temple, I’m a Vessel!”

     There are many modern translations of the Bible now available for purchase in a time of religious freedom. With such an abundance of Bibles there are questions concerning the merit of these newer translations as compared to the King James Version. In trying to answer these questions some people have elevated the KJV to near inspiration. Others have lowered its stature to just another translation in a long history of translations and revisions; so what’s one more version? The last opinion has been presented with a misstatement of historical facts and without a clear understanding of the importance the KJV has in history. Furthermore, there seems to be a lack of knowledge concerning the role Baptists had in bringing the scriptures to English speaking people. With a better understanding of the history of the authorized version this translation can be defended without resorting to illogical reasoning or emotionalism.

Response by Elder DeWayne Harris (see below)

     What do all these letters represent? Different English versions of the Bible that are in common use today. There are many more, but these are the major ones – the King James Version, the New American Standard and the New International Version. Is there a “right” one to use and a “wrong” one to use?

     And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.

     This verse of scripture has the ability to stir the seat of my emotions with fond memories of those saints departed from this life. It moves my heart to grateful praise for the work of Christ in the lives of those who are now with Him. I thank God for the Baptist foundations that Jesus laid in the hearts and lives of my forefathers. And, even more, I bow my knees before Him for the honor He bestows on this generation by allowing them the privilege of carrying Baptistic Doctrines forward in this age of ever increasing compromise.

     "And their works do follow them" permeates through my soul when I visit the grave of my great-great-great Grandfather, Henry McElmurry, whose body lies in a pasture near the Old Ham Schoolhouse close to Zion, Arkansas. He was a Kentucky Baptist, born December 27, 1797, and was married March 7, 1815 in Livingston County, Kentucky. The McElmurrys were listed among the faithful of the Old Salem Baptist Church of Livingston County, which was organized in 1805. She united with the Red River Association in 1808 and with the Little River Association about 1813. Her first Pastor was Daniel Brown, but Willis Champion pastored Her from 1834 to 1874. A history of the church states: "Her pastors for the most part were stern, hard traveling preachers, who served several churches on a once per month basis, and were rewarded for their hard travels and spiritual labors with very little monetary reward.....All down through Her history the ministry and missions of the Old Salem Church has always been to minister to the needs of people both spiritually and mentally, as it is described in the Gospels.....The members have kept the faith and contended for righteousness."

"Hereby perceive we the love of God, because He laid down His life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren." 1 John 3:16

"And this commandment have we from Him, that he who loves God love his brother also." 1 John 4:21

"These things I command you, that you love one another." John 15:17

     The importance of love cannot be overemphasized in God's work. All that God has done for us is based on His great love for us--as John said in the verse above, by this we can see the love of God in that He (Christ) laid down His life for us. "For God so loved the world..." declares John 3:16. "Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins." The Word tells us "God is love", that is His nature, His being, what He is. Even when we were enemies to God, He so loved us. Truly, this kind of love, godly love cannot be compared to human love. The Greek language uses two different words, AGAPAO and PHILEO, to describe love. AGAPAO is godly love and is the word used in the verses above.

Does doctrinal compromise make one love more or does it simply make one more lovable?

It seems, to me at least, that every time some Landmark Baptist decides to jump off the deep end into universalism; they start pointing their crooked little finger around and screaming about LOVE! They say, “Well if you all were really Christians you would love more and not talk so much about doctrine!”

     There has been much written and spoken about the reasons God created man and what was meant by the words, “let Us make man in Our image.” Volumes of books and articles have tried to explain what “in Our image” involves. Usually, the discussion centers around man’s “triune” make-up or his eternal quality or his ability to reason and use his free will. Then, when the discussion shifts to the reason man was created, usually the idea involves our being able to have fellowship with God and our giving Him glory and honor. I agree that our ultimate purpose is to glorify God, but just how was this to be accomplished?

     The term "birth" will be from verses saying, born of God, born again, begotten, or born from above.

     There are a lot of ideas about the new birth and there is one that is right. I heard a priest say, "It is like being born again." He was wrong. The Bible does not say it is like being born again. The newspapers reported when President Carter was in office, that his sister held some kind of new birth seminar. The persons who attended squirmed around on the floor in a fetal position and finally, after much struggling, stood up born again. Some have tried to affirm that baptism is the new birth. Others believe that the resurrection is the new birth. Then, some believe that it is a spirit birth that happens when a lost sinner believes on Jesus. Probably there are other ideas that I fortunately have not heard.

INTRODUCTION

     It is clear to me that most people really do not quite know exactly what Newlightism is. Everyone has heard about it. Many are able to associate names with it. Some have nearly made a career out of preaching about it. But my experience has been that when I put people on the spot they soon admit that they don’t really know what a Newlighter is “exactly” or else their answers are all over the board. One young preacher was invited to churches all over California to lecture about Newlighters from a list of names that he had personally compiled. Of course, the brethren who were “drawn and quartered” were not allowed to be present to answer for themselves. So began the woeful practice of being guilty by accusation, a once unacceptable behavior that has now become the norm. I had the distinction of being first on his list of the most wanted; public enemy number one as it were. I suppose that should qualify me to address this issue.

     Matthew 24 is one of the great chapters of the Bible. Jesus gives us a revelation of what will happen during this last age and how God’s people are affected. The Lord’s task was to prepare the disciples for the long delay until He returns to set up His Kingdom (Mt.25:19; Lk.19:11,12).

     In verse 2 the temple was to be destroyed, “not one stone shall be left upon another.” This happened in 70 A.D. The disciples were very curious as to the SIGN of His coming (parousia-arriving presence) and the end of the age (aionios). The SIGN of His coming was to be when He comes “on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory” (Mt.24:30).

     In most Baptist churches, where “complete democracy” is king, monthly business meetings are a regular part of church. We pastors put a big guilt trip on the membership, exhorting “every member” to come and speak their mind and cast their vote and “be a part” of the decisions of the church. It all sounds so noble and right. Then why is business meeting usually the least attended and most stressful service of the month? Why are the pastor and members both emotionally spent, with either subtle or very open moments of tenseness and a confrontational attitude present so often? Could it be that we are pressing the idea of “congregational democracy” too far? More than the Bible encourages?

   Parables are defined by Webster’s Dictionary as “short fictitious story that illustrates a moral attitude or a religious principle.” Jesus used common everyday life to illustrate difficult truths of the spiritual things in the heavenly realm. It is also true in the Old Testament that prophets sometimes used fables to illustrate ridiculous situations. Jotham made such a parable in Judges Chapter nine. It is the story of trees anointing a bramble bush to be their king. (9:8-15) Though parables may be fictitious, the interpretation of them is never fictitious.

     There are a couple of verses often used to teach that poor John the Baptist will miss out in eternity, simply because he was born a few years too early. I would like to look at them and present another possible view for you to think about. If my view is correct, John will be in a very honored position in eternity, rightfully so.

     The first verse is Matthew 11:11, which states, “Assuredly I say to you, among those horn of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist, but he who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.”

     Since our upcoming Bible Conference will be dealing with the subject of “Progressing in the Joy of Faith”, it is natural for my mind to be on that very subject. In fact, this is a subject any good Pastor gives much thought to regarding the assembly he shepherds. A key part of the Pastor’s calling is to help God’s people progress in their christian life, even if it’s two steps forward and one step back.

     In our desire to progress in joy and faith, we meet many discouragements along the way. When we attend church and the fellowship is good and the sermon is food’ for the soul, the desire bums within to make definite progress through the week. But when Monday rolls around and the job is demanding attention and the bills are due and the kids are sick and you and your mate are fighting, progress seems like a distant dream and the reality of everyday life takes over.

     I watched a little of the gathering in Washington D.C. on Saturday, Oct. 4, on CSPAN to further settle in my mind what this movement was all about, so that l could formulate a proper scriptural, logical line of instruction to my congregation. Like most of you, I have read some about the Promise Keepers, both pro and con, with some articles that warned men about this group. As I watched eloquent speakers and beautiful music, it became clearer in my mind why men in the Lord’s churches should avoid taking an active part in this movement.

     My pastor, Eld. Rick Howard, who is also the Editor-in-Chief of this paper, has asked me to write about my recollections of the churches in the state of California from September 22, 1945 until the present time. He wanted me to share what changes I have seen from then to now.

     I attended my first services in a Landmark church in California September 22, 1945. The church was the First Missionary Baptist Church in Brentwood, CA, Eld. John Cooper Missionary Pastor. The church was then meeting in the Masonic Hall in that city; smelling of stale beer and cigar smoke of the party the Masons had the night before. In that service I met my wife, Alberta the youngest daughter of the missionary, and three and one half months later we were married.

     We have laws to protect us from those who would pass themselves off as physicians but are not. Sometimes they are called "quacks" and do much harm to the medical profession. There are many books being sold today that are not medically sound which tell us how to lose weight, live longer or even how to overcome some dread disease for which no cure is known to science. It is a good idea to steer clear of people who claim to have a cure for something by a method that will not stand being tested by others.

     Sometimes people do not use sound judgement about a medical problem because they are overly anxious about it. The same is true in other areas too, such as religion. There are no laws (because it would be unconstitutional) to protect us in any way from religious quacks. No credentials are required, even as to soundness of mind of those who would assume the position of instructor in God's Word. It is therefore an open field to all who would for any reason don the cloak of the "clergy" and say "follow me".

{Editor’s note: One of the main reasons The Landmark Chronicles was started was to provide Landmark Baptists a forum to discuss issues common to Landmark Baptists. We value the freedom of thought and are glad to be able to present to our readers a variety of viewpoints. This month we present a concerned reader’s viewpoint regarding our June’s featured article by Eld. Don Winkelman entitled, The Presbyterian Connection. Following this person’s remarks we present Bro. Winkelman’s Counterpoint. Our hope is that we may all learn together and invite any of our readers to feel free to express their differing views in a Christian manner. Enjoy}

And For the Defense…

     Some of you readers take the other Baptist papers and in doing so are provided a well-rounded view of Baptist thoughts, One such long time publication is The Baptist Monitor, out of Henderson Texas, and is the official paper of the Texas Baptist Institute Seminary, an A.B.A. school. Bro. Roy Culley is one of the Editors of this paper and in the July issue, vol. 48, number 7, he wrote an article titled, “Unscriptural Teaching About Becoming A Saint.” Since Bro. Culley receives The Landmark Chronicles and may have gathered some of his information from this paper, I wrote asking him to consider using our paper (and possibly the Monitor, although I did not specifically ask on that point) to write contrasting articles on becoming a saint and other related issues. He replied “gladly” and so we hope to have this in place shortly. From reading Bro. Culley’s article, he takes the position that many Baptists do, that all the saved are saints. I prefer to take the position that saints, especially as used in the scriptures, refers to saved, baptized people in church relationship. Even though from the meaning of the word saint (set apart one, separated) can, in its most general sense, refer to a person separated from the eternal existence in the lake of fire and set apart from that particular condemnation, the word saint as it is used in the Bibleis always referring to someone in closer connection to the “holy nation” and is in fact talking about a citizen of that “holy nation” which is the “peculiar people” and “royal priesthood” of the Bible.

     Since the year 1611 when the King James Version of the Bible became widely used, English speaking peoples have been left to wonder what certain words mean. Among these words is baptism which is a Transliteration and not a translation of the Greek word “BAPTO” and its forms. All through the Church of England, translators rendered, or I should say just brought the Greek letters over into our language, when the ordinance of baptism was under consideration, there were a few times when they translated the word.

     Eph.3:21 says, “To him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages…”

     From this verse we know the church of the Lord Jesus Christ endured throughout the ages and indeed, “The gates of hell has not overcome her.” {Matt.16:18}

     In reading Baptist history we see many bumps and turns in the road that brings us to the present. Jesus said to the apostle, His Church… “You will be hated by all nations for my names sake.” {Matt.24:9}

     The Greek word for "spirit", (pneuma) has provided Bible translators many problems down through the centuries. Difficult decisions had to be made whenever the translator came across this word. Should it be translated with a capital S, referring to the Holy Spirit, or with a small s, referring to various other meanings this word can have? Then, the commentators had a difficulty and still do. To decide the Greek word "pneuma" is not referring to the Holy Spirit and therefore, in that particular instance, should begin with a small letter settles the issue for the translator, for then his decision is over. The commentator, though, has to take the decision process a step further. When the Greek word "pneuma" is decided not to be the Holy Spirit, a further decision is necessary because "spirit" has several shades of meaning of which I will note at least two of these later.

     A few days ago we had a raging battle in our home. My three grown sons were standing in the dining room, hot- blooded and screaming in each other’ s faces. When I enquired as to the genesis of the fray, I came to find out that seven years ago one son had told someone else that his brother did not bathe regularly.

     I left the room shaking my head. As I remembered it, none of them bathed regularly seven years ago. A load of towels would last us a week. So it is, boys will be boys. They were on the verge of killing each other, over what? Then it hit me, hygiene was not the issue, their maleness was not the issue, the issue was that they were Baptists .They had been getting along too well for too long and they had to have a fight. Of course, there was no issue so they had to invent one up out of the clear blue sky so as to avoid becoming too close to each other. Had I taught this to them? Did they learn it at church? Or did they learn it being exposed to Baptists all their lives?

     Bro. Fay Wersky writes in reply to a subject introduced several months ago by Andy Harless entitled, “I’m a Vessel, Not a Temple.” Then we had an alternate view sent in by Bro. Bill Gurnette. He allowed us to print his reply along with our response in a new format we called “From Both Sides.” Now, Bro. Wersky goes into this whole subject in more detail. We welcome other viewpoints on this important and interesting subject of the N.T. Temple.

1 Peter 2:11

"Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul."

     No doubt if a survey were taken among Baptists as to what were those things that "war against the soul" a long list could be made up listing the various answers. The Apostle Peter mentions in the above verse a general term which would describe many of those answers. However, it is very probably  true that many Christians do not fully understand the Bible's teaching on "lust". When the word "lust" is found in the KJV version of the New Testament it is most often a translation of the Greek word ἐπιθυμία. This word "denotes a strong desire of any kind" (Vine's Expository Dict. of N.T. Words). It is used in both a good sense and a bad sense in the New Testament. It is used in a good sense three times and is translated "desire” in these verses.

     Sitting at the doctor’s office was an old book called, “The 20 Greatest Unanswered Questions of Science.” It was actually a special October 1985 issue of Science Digest. It caught my interest and I began to read, “this represents the consensus of a broad section of the scientific community. “Naturally, I wanted to know what these “leading thinkers” feel are the great, yet unsolved mysteries. I was surprised to find that so many of these questions deal with variations of man’s age-old quandary: Who am I? Where did I come from? Where am I going? These may be scientific questions, but they are also philosophical and religious ones.

     Each local congregation represents the New People (Iaos) of God who are experiencing the “already/not yet” of the age to come. In the Old Covenant, Israel was “the people of God.” Israel’s rejection of their Messiah led Paul to the question, “Has God rejected His people?” (Rom. 11:1).

     Now, another people is grafted in and brought into being along with Israel through faith. While the nation as a whole rejected Jesus, there was a “remnant chosen by grace” (Rom. 11:5).

     There are some things in this world God’s people are not to have any affiliation! One of those things is the sinfulness of this world. The Bible tells us to “put off the old man” and “put on the new man” {Eph.4:22-24}. Romans 12:2 says, “do not be conformed to this world but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.” It is abundantly clear that we are not to continue on in the sinful nature of the flesh after we have been born again but rather follow the Lord in obedience and depart from sin.

     The truths written in this article are certainly NOT going to be popular. But, should some brave soul wish to sincerely study, this will bring satisfaction,
“I guarantee it!”

It has brought personal satisfaction to me and to others by:

1. …making the belief system more consistent with the Bible.
2. …making the homiletical approach more Biblically correct and harmonious preaching.
3. …and adding more enemies to your already growing list.

     This subject I have chosen to write about proved to be both very interesting and very complex. I shall attempt to organize my studies into general areas and then to deal with each area in more detail.

     First, a good working definition of the word "canon" is needed and a concept of how this applies to the Bible. Canon is a word taken from the Greek word "Kanna" meaning any strait bamboo-like cane.  These types of reeds came to be used as measuring devices. Canon eventually took on the idea of a standard to measure various things such as writings and correctness of languages. When applied to religious teachings it carried the meaning of a rule of doctrine; a correct type of teaching as opposed to that which is erroneous or heretical. From all this, the transfer of this idea from the doctrine itself to the collection of books supposed to contain it was not far off. The Greek word "Kanon" is used several times in the N.T. of which Gal.6:16 is a good example.

     There is a tendency on the part of many theologians to dissect the Scriptures into several parts or themes as if to say that God has numerous plans and purposes instead of a singular one.

     It will be the task of the following lessons to present God’s plan as consistent and as having a singular flow throughout the Bible. In other words, I will attempt to reveal how the Lord has a unified purpose although choosing to unveil His plan in “piece-meal” fashion. There is yet only ONE GOD…ONE PLAN…and ONE PURPOSE.

     I realize that this will take some thinking, and perhaps even some RE-thinking on the part of some, however it is hoped that God’s Word will be viewed as a holistic unit.

     “The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ?…” (1 Cor. 10:16)

     Liberty Church recently observed the Lord’s Supper together and this was the text for the sermon. One of the points I brought out was that on the surface this verse seems to be speaking of “blessing” kind of in the general sense. In other words, the Lord’s Supper is to produce a blessing to those who partake of it. But there is something much more in this statement. As shown in the title, the definite article “the” should be included, making it a specific blessing, not just “blessing” in the generic sense.

     In a time when the spirit of compromise seems to prevail many Christians are asking the question, "How important is doctrine?" Many going by the name of Baptist have decided that it is not so important that it cannot be modified or ignored for the sake of greater unity or supposedly greater spiritual endeavors. Such an attitude is directly opposed to centuries of Baptist history which give undeniable testimony to the importance of doctrine. The Baptist men and women of these centuries not only lived by doctrine; they also died for doctrine. It is amazing that attitudes have changed to such an extent that now "doctrine" is a dirty word among many that are called Baptist. Perhaps it was a desire for acceptance that was partially responsible for the situation that has developed. The attitude of the religious world has been for many years, "Give up your narrow doctrine and you'll be accepted." It is a cause for thanksgiving that autonomous missionary Baptist churches around the world have never accepted that offer. In their adherence to biblical doctrine is seen the point of conflict between God's people and the religious world--a conflict seen clearly in the earthly ministry of our Lord and throughout the New Testament.

{Editor’s note: Bro. Wright is a deacon and a member of the Cyprus MBC of Sacramento, CA. He has written this article in response to Eld. Rick Howard’s article in the August issue of this paper entitled “Oh No, Not Business Meeting Again! ” Bro. Howard asked for responses regarding how we MBC govern within our churches. Bro. Wright has been kind enough to respond.}

     At almost every critical decision in the history of the nation of Israel, a group called “Elders” were present. An Elder in Israel was not just an old man. Elders as most frequently used in the Old Testament indicated an official position. There were the Elders of the tribes, the Elders of the cities, the Elders of Midian, etc. In the Gospels and the Acts, the term generally refers to members of the Sanhedrin.

Text Col.1:1-18; esp.vs.12:

     The framework of the entire New Covenant thought is “apocalyptic dualism” of THIS AGE and THE AGE TO COME. Because of what God has done in Jesus’ historic mission, the contrast between the “two ages” has not remained intact. In a very real sense, some of the events of the End-Time consummation are not detached events lying only in the future, they are rather redemptive events that have begun to unfold within history. That is, some of the blessings of the “Age To Come” no longer lie exclusively in the future; they have become objects of present spiritual experience.

     There is probably about as much controversy surrounding the resurrection as there is over the subject of salvation. And just as with the doctrine of salvation, you will undoubtedly find positions on both extremes as well as those who try to stay somewhat in the middle.

     The following outline will simply put forth information found in the Bible with regard to the teaching on the first resurrection, or as in the Greek — the resurrection first.

     Being that this is the last issue of the paper, at least for now, (see special notice* elsewhere in this issue), I thought it might be good to encourage us all to be looking forward and consider the future of Landmark Baptists. I was hoping to have something “profound” to say in this article but I find my thoughts going to areas we should all know by now. I realize we are not prophets in the inspired sense, but most of us have been around long enough to sense trends and general directions. What does the future hold for us?

     First, we must emphasize that the “end prepared for us” is a grand one. Revelation 21 & 22 describes that quite well. But what about the short term future before the Lord comes back?

     In the previous article the subject was concerning the hidden gospel. The title was “If These Things be Hidden.” The verse comes from II Cor. 4:3 where Paul is not questioning that the gospel is hidden from some, but rather he is revealing the origin of the one hiding it. Along with the fact that the god of this world is blinding multitudes of soul, they are willingly falling into his trap. (II Pet. 3:5) They also get a lot of help from others who have fallen into his snare. (II Cor. 11:13-15) As much as I hate to say this, could it be that we who know the truth are not as forward to proclaim it as those who preach the devil’s lies?

     We are called “Missionary” Baptists. Many of our churches carry that word “Missionary” in their names. First, it is reactionary, as are so many names. When some of the Methodists became incensed over requiring people to pay rent on their pews, they separated and became known as “Free” Methodists, indicating that a parishioner was permitted to occupy a pew without paying for the privilege. We became known as “Missionary” Baptists to distinguish ourselves from others who used the name Baptist, but were opposed to mission work on the basis that those who were “elect” would come to them, negating the requirement to send someone out to bring them in. The second reason we use that name so much is simply that we believe in mission work and want others to be aware of it. We consider the so-called “Great Commission” to be our marching orders. I say “so-called,” not because I think it is not a commission, nor because I think it is not great, but simply because the term is man-made. The fact that it is not a biblical term does not mean it isn’t good and accurate, because it is.

1 Timothy 3:1-7  

     I try to maintain strict neutrality on the subject of associations, believing they can be good or bad, depending upon how they are structured. The problem of too much structure, however, is amply illustrated by a recent article in the Fellowhelper, out of Texarkana, AR/TX, excoriating the messengers of the American Baptist Association for removing the salary recommendation from twice-married missionaries. The writer seems to acknowledge that the removal of the recommendation is tantamount to removing the missionaries from the field, which raises serious questions about the association’s policies.

     I Cor. 3:16, 17. It seems to me this doctrine of the "Indwelling Holy Spirit" is one of the most misunderstood doctrines among Missionary Baptist. In the early years of my ministry I believed, and taught, that the Holy Spirit indwelt the body of each individual believer; while at the same time trying to show how He dwelt in the "Lord's church in a more special way. However, I could never comfortably harmonize these two thoughts, and this troubled me so much until it drove me into an extensive study into the Greek New Testament concerning this subject. Two things soon became consistently plain to me. One; every time the scriptures mentioned the indwelling of the Holy Spirit; the persons being indwelt were always in the plural: never ONE time in the singular person. The other thing that became obvious was; every time the expression, Filled with "Holy Spirit" occurred, there was NEVER a definite article in front of the words "Holy Spirit". There is no exception to these facts in all the New Testament. Now, if we truly believe in "The Verbal Inspiration of the Scriptures" we must conclude this is not a mere coincidence; but the Holy Spirit intended it that way. Therefore, it should be plain to anyone that no person is filled with THE Holy Spirit as a person, but are rather filled by His spiritual power.

Scripture: John 17:17-23
               Eph 3:14-21

Texts: Col 1:27; 2 Cor 3:17-18; Gal 4:19

Intro:

          It was with envisioned words and joyful anticipation toward HIS CONGREGATION that it "might be filled with all the fullness of God,"  -Jesus prayed that they might be "sanctified through Thy Truth." And Paul, "according to the wisdom given unto him," desired that the members of the Congregation in Ephesus might be "strengthened with might by HIS SPIRIT in the inner man; that Messiah may dwell in your hearts by faith. . ."

          To the Congregation in Colossi he wrote of "Messiah in you, the hope of glory" [Col 1:27]; and to the members of the Congregation in Corinth he added, "the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. . . but we . . are changed . . by the Spirit of the Lord" [2 Cor 3:17-18]. He expressed grave concern over the members of the Congregations in Galatia "until Messiah be formed in you" [Gal 4:19].

     Since we are at the end of another year and as a result, one year closer to the coming of our King, I thought it might be profitable to remind us of the “key” to being ready for that Day. This “key” is to avoid being “deceived” by the things that will happen in religion and politics.

     The greatest chapter and the greatest lecture on the end times is found in Matthew chapter 24. In this Olivet discourse, Jesus starts right away with the “key” for His disciples, in verse 4, “Take heed that no one deceives you.” Of all the important subjects and events and signs that He goes on to highlight, none is highlighted more than deception. He says, in verses 5 & 11, that the “many” will be deceived, and uses this to warn His own to avoid the deception. The confusion that will exist and the violation against the truth will be so complete as to almost even “deceive the very elect” (verse 24). So, Jesus weaves this warning against deception all through His discussion in answering their question in verse 3. Like those disciples, we are curious about the when and how and what of the end times, but Jesus put the emphasis on where it can do us the most good, which is not being deceived. That’s the thing that will help us the most during those fearful days. We may HCI know every detail of how it all will work out, but if we avoid deception, we will be O.K. when it’s all over.

Dear Brother,

     The covenant fellowship meetings are a blessing as I enjoy being with the brethren and the exchange of thoughts on scripture. There are some troubling differences on several Bible subjects that have kept me wondering why this should be. Example why would the teaching that one who is saved if not baptised is not redeemed and will be condemned to Gehenna.

     I came to the conclusion that these differences are a result what is believed about the future Kingdom of Christ. What is the true Bible MODEL of the Kingdom? And what is the false MODEL being set forth?

Acts 13:39

Introduction to the study of Old Testament Law:

Where to begin is my dilemma. Since I believe that Jesus is the Son of God, who came into the world to redeem all things, I therefore believe His life and teachings to be perfectly true. I further believe that those holy men of His churches, which He chose to write His word, wrote it with the same perfection as He spoke it. Because the New Testament best explains the purpose, origin, and demise of the law it is the only place to begin. Acts 13:39 is my choice for it sets the stage for the many verses in the New Testament. Every verse to the jot or tittle agrees and harmonizes.

     Solomon, the wise one, said in Proverbs 22:1, “A GOOD name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favor rather than silver and gold.” It was his father David who said of the Lord, “He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” A man’s name is of great value to any self-respecting person.

     It is not just an elite few that know and appreciate the lineage of our Baptist heritage, the faith of our fathers and the amazing record of their suffering and sacrifices. As I write this article, I have just finished preaching a sermon on the subject of Landmarkism that lasted an hour and forty minutes. I know that was much too long, but I mention it here only to illustrate the passion that this subject stirs in me. In this I am not alone but every Landmarker that I know has a Godly pride in the fathers of our faith and the dramatic story of their lives.

     The teaching of the Scriptures clearly presents the New Testament assembly as a unique institution having characteristics which set it apart from any other institution, religious organization or group. This uniqueness is provided by the exercise of God's grace as He has shown His divine favor toward that which was established by the Son of God. This uniqueness is a cause for rejoicing for those who are members of one of the Lord's churches. As they realize with gratitude the privilege they have as members of that assembly which God has claimed for His own. It should be the cause of soul-searching and humility. Do we take for granted our membership in the Body of Christ? Have we failed to realize or forgotten the uniqueness and importance of that assembly which "Christ also loved…and gave himself for it". (Eph.5:25)

“Howbeit when He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth: for He shall not speak of Himself; but whatsoever He shall hear, that shall He speak; and He will shew you things to come. He shall glorify Me.” John 16:13, 14

THE OFFICE WORK of the Lord as our Savior is pretty well defined in the minds of the leaders among the laity; but this cannot be said to be true with regard to the work of the HOLY SPIRIT. This ignorance can even be seen in some of the clergy in some sections. This fact is the reason for much of the confusion of thinking today.

     Over the last couple of years much discussion has taken place in this country on the subject of the “dumbing down” of American school children. Leading the way in this discussion has been talk radio and conservative politicians. What they primarily point to is an evil called “outcome based education” which is basically socialistic education, in that the goal is to produce a more even outcome of the students. As in most endeavors, the proponents of this approach won’t just call it socialistic education. They couch it in noble terms, often referring to the supposed underlying desire to “improve the self-esteem” of the slower students. To accomplish this, there is less notice given to the achievers. The smarter students are not encouraged as much to strive for excellence and the gifted student is not pushed to learn even more and certainly not publicly praised and recognized, for fear of hurting the self-esteem of the other students. I hope we see the deception of this in our public schools. It was a system that encouraged excellence and hard work that made this country great.

     As a young man in the mid 1970’s, I represented my church at a council meeting concerning the Cordova MBC and their doctrinal beliefs. After hours of discussing (and just plain “cussing”) the clerk began to call out the names of the representatives of each church for the one-by-one voice vote to declare them unsound in the faith. When my name was announced, I heard myself respond with a resounding “N0!” Soon after, at the State Associational meeting, that same church was then unseated for doctrinal reasons, even though they accepted the articles of faith found in the minute book. Since then, I have taken a special interest in observing what God’s people, especially Pastors, get upset about and write about and split over. It seems most of the upset, even outright division, is over theory. By theory I mean belief, i.e. differences of viewpoints on the scripture as it pertains to a particular subject, whether a “cardinal” doctrine or a more minor issue. By contrast, for some reason less upset happens as a result of practice. By “practice” I mean the outworking of those beliefs, i.e. how they are put into effect in the local church.

     It has been apparent to me for a long time that many are misrepresenting what the Bible teaches concerning God’s eternal purpose. We need to understand the final state and how and where we might stand in the ever- lasting Kingdom. This is important now as we need to grow in our faith imaging.

     Much of the teaching today follows the Protestant line that there are only two destinies of heaven and hell. One famous evangelist wrote in our paper of the saved “polishing rainbows in eternity.” This is about the extent of the faith imaging of many.

{Editor’s note: Bro. Garner went to be with the Lord this past June. He pastored the Landmark MBC in Rockford, Illinois for 41 years and edited the CLARION HERALD paper. This article is condensed from one printed in his paper a couple of years ago. I never met him in person, but through his writings, he seemed to be a godly, humble man who loved His Lord and the church he pastored. May God bless that church and Bro. Garner’s family.}

Scripture: Gen 3:1-24

Text: v. 1

Intro:

          There was a time when there was NO SIN. Yet, we live in a time when there is not only sin, but sin with compound interest. The wind has brought the whirlwind. The first fire has kindled a vast conflagration. There must have been a `time', an occasion, when the FIRST SIN was committed, the first flame lighted.., was it in the garden of Eden?

 I. IN THE SHADOW OF SIN

     A. God had two ways in which He might create the higher orders of His creatures. He could make them with `the power of choice' or `WITHOUT the power of choice'.

     Have you ever stood before a group of people and said something that made you stop for a moment and ask yourself this question? I always try to be aware of what I say, but sometimes I wonder where things came from and what I meant when I said them. Pastors, especially, tend to repeat words, phrases and sentences, sometimes even paragraphs, that are part of a sort of standard jargon that is used by many. We become so used to it that it never occurs to us to doubt the validity of the words or the meaning they convey. I am no different from anyone else in this regard, but every now and then I listen to myself (or someone else) and think about what has just been said.

Text:  Romans 8:14

“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.”

INTRODUCTION

     The Scriptures teach that Jesus was THE ONLY BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD, i.e., the only Son issued forth directly from the Father. As God’s Son, therefore, Jesus stands to receive an inheritance; thus, we are told that Jesus is the “heir of all things” (Heb 1:3, 4).

     I remember vividly our first family trip to visit relatives in Oklahoma, Arkansas and Tennessee. My dad, mom, grandpa and we five kids, all loaded into that old station wagon, headed across the deserts and barren places along old route 66. No air conditioning. No motels, too expensive. Back seats down with five kids sprawled out and windows down, blowing the hot air all around us. I can still feel it.

     There is an increasing level of discussion these days surrounding NEW LIGHTISM. Certain preachers are being dubbed by some as NEW LIGHTERS due to their interpretations of the Scriptures. Such controversy is dividing families, brethren, relatives, pastors, churches and Associations.

     The debate is over biblical interpretation—over doctrine. Some claim that new doctrines have sprung up within our work and are at the heart of the tension. I agree—new doctrines have indeed sprung up and are most certainly the cause of the problems facing Missionary Baptists today. But the question is, “Which doctrines are the newer light?” “Which teachings have entered into the ranks of the Lord’s churches that are foreign to the Scriptures, and are at the root of the spiritual disruption?  Now, as you read this article, please realize this: whatever particular doctrines that you consider NEW LIGHT on the Bible, another brother is thinking of an entirely different set of teachings as being NEW LIGHT! So, who is right in his assessment of NEW LIGHT doctrine?

     Having been raised up among Landmark Missionary Baptists, both my love and concern for them has grown deep over the years. I truly believe Landmark Baptists are the modern day successors to the N.T. churches and the Ana-Baptists of the Middle Ages. Because of this conviction; I am deeply troubled at the number of churches either disbanding outright or barely struggling to survive. Why is this? Dare we take an honest look at ourselves in order to develop a burden for our sister churches and to help us avoid the same fate?

     The Pharisees asked this question of John the Baptist, in John 1:25. The full statement is, “Why then do you baptize if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” This is a good question to ask ourselves as the Lord’s churches, since the authority to baptize on Christ’s behalf has been granted to His churches.

     The first and most obvious answer is that we baptize in obedience to the command found in the Great Commission, Matt. 28:19. That is a direct command by our Head and a responsibility we should not take lightly.