Pastor D. Curtis Martin, PhD
There is a dangerous philosophy that is being indirectly promoted throughout Christendom today. I say indirectly because it is not an out right attack. It is more a subversive or underlying attack. It is Satan’s way of capturing the souls of men, women and children, and keeping them from ever experiencing the joys of the new birth. Also, because of this satanic attack, many Christians live unhappy, unfulfilled, fruitless lives. These Christians live defeated lives and the sad thing about it is, they don’t even know it.
This damaging philosophy robs the lost soul of an opportunity to hear about salvation and cheats the Christian of true happiness. What is this damaging philosophy? It is the de-emphasizing of scriptural preaching. Those that promote this dangerous philosophy stress teaching above preaching. Or, they will preach without the use of Bible verses. Let me say from the outset that I am not downplaying teaching. Teaching is important, needful and scripturally necessary. But it should never take precedence over scriptural preaching!
Please turn with me to Proverbs 29:18, Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.
A. The Dilemma Defined
To glean a proper understanding of this phrase we must look at the word “vision.” The most common thought that would come to many people, is that a “vision” is some sort of heavenly dream. Others may say that the first phrase in this verse is talking about a goal or direction, “Where there is no goal or direction the people will perish.”
The word “vision,” is actually taking about the Word of God. To be more specific, it means, “Where there is no proclamation of the Word, the people will perish.”
1 Samuel 3:1 And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORD before Eli. And the word of the LORD was precious in those days; there was no open vision.
Nahum 1:1 The burden of Nineveh. The book of the vision of Nahum the Elkoshite.
Habakkuk 2:2 And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.
Daniel 1:17 As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions AND dreams.
Obadiah 1:1 The vision of Obadiah. Thus saith the Lord GOD concerning Edom...
It is quite obvious from these verses that a vision is a message from God. Today, these visions as described in the Old Testament have stopped because we have all of the Word of God that we need (1Cor. 13:8-10). God’s vision to mankind is contained totally and exclusively in the Bible. For English speaking people it is found in the KJV.
Within the pages of our Bible, we can find all that we need to secure eternal life in heaven. John 5:39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. Then after salvation, the Christian can find all that he needs to live a fulfilled and happy life.
Psa. 119:105, 130 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path... The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.
Is it any wonder that, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” It is the Word that gives us life and light. Therefore without the Word we have no life. Without the Word we could not find salvation. Without the Word, Christians could not please God. “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” Where there is no preaching of the Word of God, the people perish.
The word “perish” literally means to stand naked. Those who are not under the preaching of the Word of God stand naked or without excuse before him. Churches that do not preach the Word will perish. Families that are not under the preaching of Word will perish. Christians that do not listen to the preaching of Word fall under the chastening hand of an all mighty God. “Where there is no vision, the people perish.”
What is the solution? It is quite obvious—find a church where the Word of God is scripturally, fearlessly, and uncompromisingly preached!
B. The Dilemma Dissolved
Some may ask, “What is the difference between preaching and teaching?” There is no simple answer to that question. But let me state it this way: Teaching is just the presentation of the Word, while preaching is (1) a bold proclamation of the Word, (2) application of the Word, (3) and pressing the listener to make a decision. Yes, there is a difference between preaching and teaching.
And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. Matthew 4:23 Paul also and Barnabas continued in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also. Acts 15:35
2 Timothy 4:1-4 I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; 2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 3 [WHY] For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; 4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
Without the preaching of the Word of God people will flounder. My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. . . Hosea 4:6 My heart aches when I think of the countless thousands here in Rochester that are groping about because they are being led about by blind leaders. One writer put it this way:
I know how Antichrist both obscured the glory of God, and the true knowledge of his word: overcastting the same with mists and clouds of error and ignorance through their false glosses and interpretations. It pitieth me to see the simple and hungry flock of Christ led into corrupt pastures, to be carried blindfold they know not whither.
Yes, preaching is important. It is more important that Sunday School. It is more important than Bible Studies. It is even more important than personal devotion. Sunday School, Bible studies, and personal devotion are all very important, but they will never be a viable substitute for scriptural preaching!
Salvation comes about through preaching, Romans 10:13-15 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. 14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
The Word of God is made known through preaching, Titus 1:3 But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour...
Where there is the preaching of Word, people can find salvation and happiness, BUT THEY MUST ACT UPON WHAT IS BEING PREACHED. (turn back to the text – Pro 29:18)
Just hearing the Word will not benefit mankind. We must obey It.
A. Obedience Required
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves, James 1:22.
If ye love me, keep my commandments. John 14:15.
And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. 4 He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. 1 John 2:3-5 .
By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. 3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. 1 John 5:2-3.
The word “keep” is also translated “observe.” See Mt 23:3; 28:20.
We can only find true happiness when we obey, observe or keep the Scriptures. We can only have true joy and contentment when we totally obey the Word of God. Partial obedience does not please God.
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6.
B. Obedience Rewarded
When we obey God’s Word, then and only then will be find happiness. He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. 22 Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? 23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. John 14:21-23.
But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. James 1:25.
Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. Revelation 22:14.
Don’t let anyone tell that preaching is out of date, or that we should not preach because it is offensive. Those comments are made by people that are obviously not right with God. Always remember—Obedience to scriptural preaching is the primary ingredient in the search for true happiness.
PREACHING + OBEDIENCE = HAPPINESS
By M.L. Moser, Sr.
“Eternal Security of the Believer,” “Final Perseverance of the Saints,” and “Salvation by Grace,” are but different methods of expressing the same doctrine. However, because of a general misunderstanding on the part of many concerning the doctrine, it is thought best, before giving the reasons why we believe in Eternal Security, to state some things that are not connected with the doctrine.
1. That all church members are saved.
We recognize that there are many church members today who have never been born again. Only those who have definitely trusted or believed on the Lord Jesus Christ are saved.
Hebrews 3:14: “For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end.”
I John 2:19: “They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.”
2. That all who are engaged in church work are saved.
There were false apostles, deceitful workers even in New Testament times and today there are many religious workers that are not saved, and therefore not secure.
Matthew 7:22,23: “Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”
I John 4:1: “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.”
II John 7-11: “For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an anti-christ. Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.”
II Peter 2:1-3: “But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.”
II Timothy 3:13: “But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.”
II Timothy 4:3: “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears.”
I Timothy 4:1-2: “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron.”
3. That saints should not be tempted.
Even the Lord Jesus Christ was tempted.
Matthew 4:1: “Then was Jesus led up of the spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.”
Hebrews 4:15: “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”
II Peter 2:9: “The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished.”
Hebrews 2:18: “For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.”
I Corinthians 10:13: “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”
4. That saints may not fall.
Saints can and do fail many times, but they cannot so fall as to be eternally lost. That saints can fall is taught in several passages.
Micah 7:8: “Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord shall be a light unto me.”
Proverbs 24:16: “For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief.”
Psalm 37:24,25: “Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand. I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.”
Psalms 118:13,14: “Thou hast thrust sore at me that I might fall: but the Lord helped me. The Lord is my strength and song, and is become my salvation.”
Psalms 145:10-14: “All thy works shall praise thee, O Lord; and thy saints shall bless thee, They shall speak of the glory of thy kingdom, and talk of thy power; to make known to the sons of men his mighty acts, and the glorious majesty of his kingdom. Thy kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion endureth throughout all generations. The Lord upholdeth all that fall, and raiseth up all those that be bowed down.”
5.That saints persevere alone.
Just as no believer can save himself, so no believer can keep himself. Our enabling is of God. The keeping power is not self but God.
Psalm 37:39,40: “But the salvation of the righteous is of the Lord: he is their strength in the time of trouble. And the Lord shall help them, and deliver them: he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.”
Psalms 40:17: “But I am poor and needy; yet the Lord thinketh upon me: thou art my help and my deliverer; make no tarrying, O my God.”
Romans 8:31: “What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?”
Romans 8:37: “Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.”
II Timothy 1:12: “For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.”
Psalms 37:28: “For the Lord loveth judgment, and forsaketh not his saints; they are preserved for ever: but the seed of the wicked shall be cut off.”
Jude 24: “Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy.”
I Peter 1:5: “Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.”
1. The believer has eternal life .
John 10:28: “And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.”
2. The believer has everlasting life.
John 5:24: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.”
3. The believer cannot perish.
John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
4. The believer is kept by the power of God.
1 Peter 1:5: “Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.”
5. The believer is born of God.
John 1:12,13: “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.”
6. The believer has been passed front death unto life.
John 5:24: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.”
7. The man who believes shall be saved.
Acts 16:31: “And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.”
8. The believer has been saved.
Ephesians 2:8,9: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
9. The believer is hid by God in Christ .
Colossians 3:3: “For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” Can the devil find that which God hides?
10. The believer will follow Christ.
John 10:27: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” Following Christ can one be lost? Have we any right to add to God’s word by inserting “if” to the passage?
11. The believer is God’s sheep .
John 10:2-4: “But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.”
12. The believer will not follow a stranger.
John 10:5: “And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.” If the sheep follow Christ and will NOT follow a stranger, how can they become lost?
13. The believer will not listen to the voice of a stranger.
John 10:5: “And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.”
14. The believer will flee from a stranger.
John 10:5: “And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.” Who is the STRANGER in this passage? Is the STRANGER not SATAN?
15. The believer is known of God.
John 10:14: “I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.” Compare “I never knew you” of Matthew 7:23 spoken to the lost. “And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” To the believer Christ says, “I know my sheep”; to the lost, “I never knew you.”
16. The believer listens to the voice of the shepherd.
John 10:27: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.”
17. The believer is in Christ’s hand.
John 10:28: “And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.”
18. The believer cannot be plucked out of Christ’s hand.
John 10:28: “And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.”
19. The believer is in the Father’s hand.
John 10:29: “My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.”
20. The believer cannot be plucked out of the Father’s hand.
John 10:29: “My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.”
21. The Father is greater than all.
John 10:29: “My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.” The reference here is certainly to the keeping power of the Father.
22. The shepherd is charged with the responsibility of the sheep.
John 10:11-14: “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.”
Some argue that no one can separate the believer (the sheep) from the shepherd, but that the sheep can wander away. What about the wandering lamb of Matthew 18:10-14, “Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. For the Son of Man is come to save that which was lost. How think ye? If a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.” What kind of shepherd would let his sheep wander off? Is not the shepherd there for one purpose and one only—TO KEEP THE SHEEP?
23. The believer is not condemned.
John 3:18: “He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.”
24. The believer shall not come into condemnation.
John 5:24: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.”
25. There is now therefore no condemnation for the believer.
Romans 8:1: “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.”
26. The believer is sealed by the Holy Spirit.
Ephesians 1:13: “In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise.”
27. The believer is sealed for a definite time.
The day of redemption, or the resurrection of the body. Ephesians 4:30: “And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.”
28. The believers continue with God.
I John 2:19: “They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.” The proof of the believer is his continuance. False professors fall out by the way. Had they been true believers they would have continued.
29. The believer liveth and abideth forever.
I Peter 1:23: “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever.”
30. The believer is dead to sin.
Romans 6:2: “God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?”
31. ‘The believer will appear with Christ in glory.
Colossians 3:4: “When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.”
32. The life of the believer is Christ’s life.
Colossians 3:4: “When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.”
33. Since Christ cannot die again, the believer is eternally secure.
Romans 6:9,10: “Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.”
34. The believer shall never thirst.
John 4:14: “ But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.”
35. The believer Will keep Christ’s commandments.
John 14:23: “Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.”
36. The believer saved by faith not works.
Ephesians 2:8,9: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
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CHALLENGE PRESS
Lehigh Valley Baptist Church,
4702 Colebrook Ave.
Emmaus, PA 18049
Phone: 610-965-4700
By Bill Mosley
Recorded church history reveals that at any given time since the Lord instituted His church, the church has encountered perilous times. Although each danger may differ from the other, the result was disastrous for the church. John the Baptist, a man who clearly surpassed all other men in greatness, was beheaded for preaching truth. His purpose in life was to prepare a people for the Lord to use in establishing His church. It could be that all of the Apostles in the Jerusalem church were martyred for standing as a pillar of truth. Standing for truth has always been hazardous, even in Old Testament times. Many Old Testament saints were “stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; . . . .” (Heb. 11:32-37) “The Trail of Blood,” by J. M. Carroll, relates the historical record of Ana-Baptist chained together leading one after the other into their watery grave. Many during the dark ages were burned at the stake. Pastor Carroll states that some 50 million Christians died during the 1,200 years referred to as the Dark Ages. That is over 4 million every century for 12 centuries. Their only charge was they would not recant their allegiance to Jesus Christ. Today in nations predominately Islam, Christians are dying rather than retract their faith in Christ.
Death and physical torture can scarcely be said to be the dominate peril today’s church faces. At least this is true in the U.S.A. Paul itemized twenty conditions in 2 Tim. 3:2-5 that are hazardous to the well being of the Lord’s church and the men who oversee them. Not one of these conditions include losing one’s physical life for faith in Christ. Yet every condition listed is nothing short of being perilous to the Lord’s church. However, it seems those churches whose members were martyred for Christ’s sake were strengthened spiritually by facing death. This is hardly the case for churches and pastors who face the perilous times spoken of in 2nd Timothy.
The primary reason for writing his first letter to Timothy was to give instruction on how to behave “thyself in the house of God.” (1 Tim. 3:15) He clearly identified the house of God as being the church of God. The church was distinctively identified as the “pillar and ground of the truth.” Behaving properly in the House of God means busying oneself in performing the Lord’s command in a doctrinally sound manner. Our Saviour was not mincing words when He spoke in a parable to His disciple, “Occupy till I come.” (Luke 19:13) Jesus was giving instruction on how to busy themselves in a proper manner over a proper business. The business of the church is nothing short of preaching the Gospel to every creature, making disciples and teaching them the precepts by which the saved can properly serve God.
Tactics Change — Perils Remain
Though Satan’s tactics may have changed, the hazards faced by the church are as perilous as ever. The perils become even more hazardous because they bring about spiritual ruin. Those who gave their physical lives rather than deny their Saviour are forever bound up in the bundle of life. (1 Sam. 25:29)
The Lord instituted His church to evangelize the world, not to entertain the worldly. Yet it seems the seekers of a ‘good’ church to attend desire one where there is something for their children. The ‘something’ they are seeking is too often not proper spirituality but performed entertainment. Hence, the music must be to their liking. This usually is as much the desire of the parents as the children.
The type of music used in service is too often their guide. Words don’t seem to matter so much as the beat of the music. The usual arguments for this kind of worship may differ, but the intended end is always the same. It is argued that the music of ‘Amazing Grace’ was first heard in a honky-tonk, a beer guzzling setting. How this would begin to justify boom-boxes and the clang-clang of cymbals in worship service is impossible to understand. The only possible answer for accepting the ear-splitting sound of the world is that it appeals to the flesh. Adding the words of John here clears up any doubt of why such music is desired, yet should be avoided. “If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” (1 John 2:14)
Worldly performers become popular with music that appeals to the flesh. When they become rich they suddenly remember their religious roots. Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, and many others have entertained worldly crowds for decades in improper settings. Yet their promoters seize the opportunity of reaching the so-called Christian listeners by having them record religious songs. Both the above named are now departed. Whether or not they were saved, both know now that their worldly image cannot be covered by a chameleon adaptation to the setting they were in. One now departed evangelist used the saying often, “Whatever is down in the well is sure to come up in the bucket.” Those who drew water from a cistern can understand this adage well. The apostle made this clear to all with this question, “Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?” (James 3:11)
It is indeed a perilous time when churches stoop to worldly entertainment to draw young people. Even more perilous is the attitude of parents who seem to think this is best for their children. Arguments such as this abound, “Well at least they are in church!” Can they be sure that the candle stick still remains in such a church? If per chance this is still a church, this church should seriously consider returning to their first love. (Rev. 2:3,4)
Restructuring Revival
Recently in the small town where I reside, an announcement of a coming revival appeared in the local paper. The evangelist was the youth director of a church in a neighboring town. Both are Southern Baptist churches, so it is presumed that they share the same views concerning revival. Although I did not attend any of the services, the services were aired by local TV. The Tuesday ‘evangelical service’ did not even come close to those of yesteryear, in the same church. The speaker has been the youth director for the neighboring church for fifteen years. An entire generation of young people in that church have been led by him.
The message began with John 12:3 where Mary washed the Saviour’s feet with tears and wiped them with her hair. This spiritual event during the Lord’s ministry could hardly be recognized by the subject matter of the sermon(?). “She took her long, wavy, black, flowing hair and wiped Jesus’ feet,” the evangelist(?) began. From that point for the next 30 plus minutes a story of how he loved his wife and what it cost him to get her was the theme. Sporadic laughter could be heard throughout the story. When the end of the sermon neared, a solemn mood fell on the speaker’s face as he gave the invitation. It was for all who would dare love the Lord so much, to come forward. The camera did not reveal whether there was any response. On a rerun of the following Sunday service, the pastor of this church reminded the church of the “wonderful revival” of the preceding week.
What is the peril of this? If any did respond, what was the motivation? The sermon(?) I heard was all about the speakers endangerment in seeking a wife. Trouble with her father, he explained, even to the point of having to physically fight her father. No one has to fight with the heavenly Father to get to the Bridegroom. Jesus is the free gift to sinners because of God’s great love. It is indeed a perilous situation when souls are lured to an altar or decision by deceptive methods.
Who Has Preeminence?
The First Baptist Church of another small town near my home announced in their paper the upcoming “Fall Revival.” Both the preaching and music evangelists had numbers of outstanding traits and degrees. One of them had the distinction of appearing on Trinity Broadcasting Network. The outcome of this revival can likely best be explained by the ‘special emphasis’ placed on each night. Even in the spiritual realm, like produces like.
These special emphasis nights were to be supplemented with potluck meals and a ‘short service’ for adults on Mon., Wed., and Fri. from noon to 1:00 pm. Tues. and Thurs. high school students will be fed along with a ‘short devotional.’ Already it appears that this revival is ‘short’ of anything that resembles Bible preaching. If this is the way it seems, read on with 2 Tim. 3:2-5 in mind. “For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.”
“Sunday-Packing the 40"s.” This special title does not reveal what is stressed on this day as do other nights. Was it packing pews, or dressing in the style of the ’40"s? Either or other styles of worship on this special time, fall short of preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This could fall under many of the conditions listed by Paul. It could easily fall under the title of being unthankful or unholy. I feel sure this did not mean packing the hearers with the Word of God.
“Monday-Ladies Cake Baking Contest.” This night’s service would be followed by sampling the specialties. Could this incite covetousness, boasting, and pride? Imaginations on the outcome of this night’s service can be as diversified as they are dangerous. Jealousy can be aroused over cooking as quickly as toadstools grow from musty ground. This could revive more criticism than Christianity. Could what Paul wrote in 2 Cor. 10:12 come to fulfillment here? “For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.”
“Tuesday-Family Night.” Now here is an unprecedented idea. Let’s all go to church together tonight. This might work since students were fed at noon. And there just might be some of the cake left from the night before. Someone here must have read Joshua’s statement about serving God as a family. (Josh. 24:15) “And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” It would be good if this were the case.
“Wednesday-Children and Youth Night.” As all other nights of this revival (of what is not clear), this night is for a particular age group. Have so many forgotten that the preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is suitable for all ages? The idea that something special has to be done to recover our youth is foreign to the Bible. Josiah was eight years old when he began to reign in Jerusalem. (2 Kgs. 22:1) Moses was about eighty years of age when he was used of God to deliver His people from Egypt. Abraham was a hundred years old when his promised son was conceived. The same Jesus that took up a little child and sat him in the midst of His disciples (Matt. 18:2), permitted the Apostle John to lean upon Him at the supper (John 21:20). It is of the Lord’s mercy that He draws all ages to Him.
“Thursday-Men’s Old Fashioned Homemade Ice Cream Contest, with a tasting party following the service.” It would be difficult to ignore the peril here of men being lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God. If you think I am being censorious, find in the Bible an excuse for this type of so-called worship(?). (1 Cor. 11:22) “What? have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the church of God, and shame them that have not? What shall I say to you? shall I praise you in this? I praise you not.”
You are wondering by now if God has a part in this week of worship. Far be it from this church to leave God completely out.
“Friday-God’s Night.” No explanation about the activities. But then there is very likely no expectations either. After all, it just wouldn’t seem right to have a revival unless we at least have a form of godliness. “For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.”
The Apostle Paul thought this was a hazardous peril the church would face in the last days. He left this strong admonition, “from such turn away!” Even those who are involved in such are to be avoided. Note this identifying mark of perilous times ahead. (2 Tim. 4:3,4) “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” Antidotes, story telling, and feeding the flesh simply will not replace faithfully preaching the Word of God. If you think this is too judgmental, remember that the most Holy God will one day judge more than cake baking and homemade ice cream. (Rom. 14:12) “So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.” This includes how we behave ourselves in the house of God.
Conclusion
The fleshly man is easily deceived when spiritual enlightenment is lacking. Satan’s transforming ability can paint the driest desert to appear like a watering hole. (2 Cor. 11:14) “And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.” The vast difference in the perilous times in the early church age and now, can be determined by the attitude of those whose lives were separated from the world. (Acts 17:6b) “These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also;...” Turning the world upside down by preaching the Gospel is totally different from making upside-down cake to draw a crowd.
Pointing out error of modern day tactics referred to as ‘revival’ will likely drawn criticism from some. Rather than falling into the trap of using worldly maneuvering, wouldn’t it be better to stir up our communities in a manner that would create the following curiosity? (Acts 28:22) “But we desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest: for as concerning this sect, we know that every where it is spoken against.” Wouldn’t it be more acceptable to our Lord to create this desire, rather than a trap by the world’s methods? Gospel preaching will never be accepted as well as a good pie, but the eternal results will one day look much better.
Edited by E. L. Bynum
(Editor's Note: In our News & Views column we quote from many different sources. Please understand that this does not necessarily mean that we approve of all of the publications from which we quote. We will give the name of the source in the first quote and thereafter we will give the abbreviation of that name.)
M.J. A Humanitarian?— “At the Ethiopian Embassy, Jackson accepted a humanitarian award from African Ambassadors’ Spouses Association. When presented with the award, he sighed: ‘This is beautiful. This is a wonderful time. I’ve been going to Africa since I was 12. I love it very much.’” ( NewsMax ,4/6/04) The families and their children that have been traumatized by the likes of MJ likely disagree with the AASA on his being a ‘humanitarian.’ If none of the accusations against MJ were true, the company he keeps and the maneuvers he makes are a danger to society. (Isa.5:20) “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!” (W. W. Mosley, hereafter WWM)
Madonna: Anti-Christian, Anti-American— This is nothing new coming from Hollywood. Madonna smooching with Britney Spears on national TV set a precedence that too many young girls will follow. “Last year Madonna appeared to ride the Hollywood peace train with her ‘American Life’ video.” She is now “planning to dish out a distinctly anti-war message in her world tour. The same military imagery that she used in her video will reportedly be included in her live show.” ( NewsMax , 4/6/04) Certainly no Christian or true American should fill her coffers with the price of a ticket to see her perform(?). I feel sure she would want the help of America’s service personnel if she graced(?) a stage in Iraq. —WWM
Bias Nothing Short Of Blaspheme— No believer should be surprised at bias when the liberal media reports on religion according to the Bible. A few months ago ABCs Peter Jennings aired a program entitled “The Search for Jesus.” Jesus answered this liberal news anchor in John 7:34: “Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me: and where I am, thither ye cannot come.” Crosswalk , 4/7/04, hits the liberal nail directly on the head. “ABC-TV was unwilling to present a scriptural concept of Jesus, choosing to give a distorted view with the impression that the New Testament cannot be trusted,” AFA says on its website. “Since (in their view) no reputable scholar trusts the New Testament, ABC elected to present modern day ‘theologians’ whom they portray as more knowledgeable and trustworthy to debunk the New Testament account.” The sad fact is that some will accept Jennings’ view and ignore the teaching of a sound Baptist pastor. The likes of Jennings, Brokaw, Rather are ignoramuses when it comes to scriptural truths. That should make every American leery of their view on other matters. —WWM
Liberals Challenging Laws— “A lawmaker in California has put together a coalition of 20 State Assembly members to challenge the present wording of California law that defines traditional marriage. His proposal would eliminate the words ‘a man and a woman’ from the law and replace it with ‘persons’ in the state charter defining marriage.” ( AgapePress , 4/8/04) This may be changed in CA but not in the KJV. “One nation under God” in our pledge of allegiance is also on their chopping block. Webster is sure to have to rewrite the dictionary again. “Gay” at one time was defined as happy. Now Webster’s II New College dictionary explains it as being same sex orientation. The same dictionary presently defines marriage: “Legal union of a man and woman as husband and wife.” Look for a future update in dictionary definitions if the nonconformists have their way. There will never be a change in God’s Word or His Son. (Heb. 13:8) “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” (Mal. 3:6) —WWM
Holman Publisher’s New Translation— According to AgapePress , 4/8/04, “The first major English translation of the Bible in this generation will soon be available. The Holman Christian Standard Bible , the first major rendition of God’s Word in English in 30 years, will be released April 15. One time president of SBC, Jimmy Draper, now president of LifeWay Christian Resources, which owns Broadman & Holman says, “The goal of the translation was to create the most accurate and readable Bible translation possible.” Did I miss something somewhere? Wasn’t that the aim of all other modern translators? The KJV translators were translating from the Hebrew/Greek to English. That is the only thing needed to make the Bible more readable to English speaking people. (Psa. 119:89) “For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven.” —WWM
So What Has Changed?— “A British-based organization that supports persecuted Christians says that Iraq’s interim constitution is not clear on religious freedom. One article of the Iraqi constitution says that all Iraqis have the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religious belief. However, another article says that no law may run contradictory to the tenets of Islam, and all streams of Islamic law call for the death of any adult male Muslim who converts to another religion. Paul Cooke, advocacy manager for the Barnabas Fund, says that the key point missing in the interim constitution was the freedom to proselytize and change one’s religion. Cooke says that Iraqi Christians are still very nervous, but their situation is better than it could have been.” ( AgapePress , 4/8/04)
Australia’s Practice Of Murder— The Australian Ind. Bapt. Newsletter , 4/1/04, reported there were 100,000 abortions in Australia each year. The editor reported in the state of New South Wales there are 800 abortions each week and approximately 40,000 annually. It is no comfort to know that America is not the only nation that will be judged by a Holy God for the murder of untold millions of innocent people. Life for life is still a biblical principle even for the unborn. (1 John 3:15b) “...and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him.” —WWM
If Gays Can’t Marry, No One Can— At least that is the ruling in one Oregon county. “The last marriage licenses were handed out in Benton County at 4 p.m. local time (7:00 p.m. EST) Tuesday. As of Wednesday, officials in the county of 79,000 people will begin telling couples applying for licenses to go elsewhere until the gay marriage debate is settled.” ( Rueters via Berean Call , 3/26/04) The reason given by one county commissioner was that “we need to treat everyone in our county equally.” Oregon’s state attorney general said he was “very pleased” with the county’s decision. This same kind of reasoning would sue those who do not test HIV positive to become infected for the same reason. “Fools [still] make at mock at sin:” (Prov. 14:9) but the righteous will always have God’s favor. —WWM
Muslims Worship False God— “Allah is NOT the same as the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Allah is not a Trinity, first of all. Allah happens to be the name of the moon god–the chief idol in the Ka’abah in Mecca where they go now for their pilgrimages. They had over 300 idols there, and Allah was the name of the chief idol. So, although Muhammad smashed the idols, he still maintained the name of the chief idol–the moon god–which is why they have the crescent moon as their symbol [for Islam]...Allah is NOT the God of the Bible.” ( Berean Call , 3/26/04) The Vatican Council recently declared that Muslims worship the same God and Christians. What this variegated group of Catholics do not know is that Christians are those who believe in salvation through Christ death and resurrection. Catholics still have Him hanging on a cross in their worship places. It is little wonder they are mixed up about our Lord’s heavenly Father. —WWM
Christian Rights Made Right— “A federal judge has awarded nearly $150,000 to a man who was fired by AT&t Broadband for refusing to sign a diversity policy requiring him to value the beliefs of others, including homosexuals. In a Friday ruling, Judge Marcia S. Krieger of the U.S. District Court in Colorado directed the company to recompense former employee Albert Buonanno of Denver for lost salary, 401k matching contributions, and emotional distress.” ( AgapePress ,4/7/04) The judge came short of ruling AT&t guilty of religious discrimination. It is refreshing to know that at least some federal judges agree that Christians have a right to take a stand against sin and a sinful lifestyle. This is a relief from “spiritual wickedness in high places.” (Eph. 6:12) —WWM
Politicians, Listen Up!— “It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ. For this very reason peoples of other faiths have been afforded asylum, prosperity, and freedom of worship.” –Patrick Henry ( Federalist , 4/8/04) Too many politicians today are afraid to make like statements, even if they are of the same persuasions. Mr. Henry would have to alter his frankness today if he was to be politically correct. The ruling of Christianity made this nation great. It is the liberal wicked who are tearing it down. (Prov. 29:2) “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.” —WWM
A President &The Blood of Christ— “O most glorious God ... Direct my thoughts, words and work, wash away my sins in the immaculate blood of the Lamb, and purge my heart by thy Holy Spirit.... Daily frame me more and more into the likeness of thy Son Jesus Christ.... Thou gavest thy Son to die for me, and hast given me assurance of salvation....” –George Washington ( Federalist , 4/8/04) This would be difficult for those who deny that the framers of this nation on this continent were Christians. This kind of prayer would likely be declared unconstitutional if prayed in today’s congressional halls. Those who would walk out at a prayer like this should keep on walking . . . until they needed to began swimming. (Psa. 33:12) “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.” —WWM
Another Presidential View On Religion— “And if we now cast our eyes over the nations of the earth, we shall find that, instead of possessing the pure religion of the Gospel, they may be divided either into infidels, who deny the truth; or politicians who make religion a stalking horse for their ambition; or professors, who walk in the trammels of orthodoxy, and are more attentive to traditions and ordinances of men than to the oracles of truth.” –Samuel Adams ( Federalist , 4/8/04) “Infidels, who deny the truth; or politicians who make religion a stalking horse for their ambition” sounds like a 21st century commentary on liberal politicians. Politicians who use the name of God in vain, and in the same lecture request prayer for our nation are blatant hypocrites. (Job 35:13) “Surely God will not hear vanity, neither will the Almighty regard it.” —WWM
Same-Sex Blessing From ECUSA— At their General Convention last summer, Episcopal Church leaders passed a resolution which said the blessing of extramarital relationships was “within the bounds of our common life.” ( Crosswalk , 4/9/04) At least one Anglican leader took offense at this. Anglican leader Kendall Harmon said, “There is no place in the denomination for such activity.” Nor any other denomination. This leader should leave this group and take as many with him as possible. No one can accuse this group of using the Bible in coming to their conclusion that extramarital relationships is within the bounds of common life. It may be in theirs, but not in true religion. Prophesying deceits and speaking smooth things (Isa. 30:10) may sooth the conscience for a while, but God will soon judge both. Man’s resolutions apart from God’s approval are more useless than the time it takes to make them. (Prov. 19:3) “The foolishness of man perverteth his way: and his heart fretteth against the LORD.” —WWM
Muslim Persecution Against Christians— Muslims are presented every opportunity to build mosque and worship their false god in America. However, this is not a courtesy granted to Christians in Muslim countries. “For many Christians around the world, religious persecution is a way of life, even during ‘Holy Week,’ a time when believers commemorate their faith in God’s salvation and power. And in many areas, political tensions, economic change, and interfaith conflict are threatening to disrupt what ought to be season of celebration.” Dr. Richard Land, SBC leader says “recent Muslim uprisings against Christian Serbs in Kosovo indicate that the situation there is not getting better.” ( Crosswalk , 4/9/04) How any intelligent person can continue to say Islam is a peaceful religion is beyond understanding. True Christianity has always been hated by false religion. Only false prophets can get along with false religion. (Luke 6:26) “Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets.” —WWM
United Way’s Support of Homosexuals— This week, yet another United Way chapter cut off funding to the Boy Scouts of America. United Way of Northwestern Michigan in Traverse City, Michigan will entirely remove the Scenic Trails Boy Scouts Council from its charitable giving campaign. . . . Since the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 2000 that the Scouts have the right to exclude homosexuals from leadership and membership, the anti-Scout backlash has been most vicious at the hands of the United Way. ( Muth’s News/Views , 4/16/04) The leadership of Boy Scouts of Am. should be applauded for their stand against homosexual influence on these young men. United Way boosters should seriously consider sending their financial aid to organizations willing to take a stand against this sensual activity. Such as a local New Testament Independent KJV believing Baptist Church. Our High Priest was separate from sinners. So should we. (Heb. 7:26) —WWM
Faithful or Fanatic?— Muslim fanatics burned down 10 Christian churches in the town of Makarfi in the northern state of Kaduna, Nigeria, on Saturday. Claims that a mentally retarded Christian teenager desecrated the Quran, the Muslim holy book, apparently incited the attack. ...eyewitnesses saw trucks piled with bodies of dead Christians from Makarfi being taken away for burial by police in nearby Kaduna. The violence also provoked the displacement of hundreds of other Christians from the town.” ( Baptist Press , 4/12/04) “Fundamental” and “fanatic” are usually attached to “Muslim” when such as this occurs. But this is simply being faithful to their religion to remove all “unbelievers,” non Islamic. This is nothing to be surprised at. (John 15:18) “If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.” —WWM