BBFI, WBF, and SBF Move Toward SBC

By E. L. Bynum

This latest move is the repudiation of the heritage and founders of the World Baptist Fellowship and the Baptist Bible Fellowship International. Most of the founders are either dead or retired. John Rawlings is the exception in the BBFI. Even though he is in his 90"s, he has the money and the influence to gather most of the fundamental Baptist Fellowships into a close relationship to each other and to the Southern Baptist Convention conservatives.

In their earlier meeting in Chattanooga, Tennessee (the place where the Southwide Baptist Fellowship was founded), they had Southern Baptists participate and speak. In their latest meeting in Dallas, TX (described from the Baptist Bible Tribune below), they included leaders of the SBC such as Paige Patterson and O.S. Hawkins. Both of these men are powerful leaders in the SBC. It is true that men like Paige Patterson, are far preferable to the rank modernists of the SBC. They have made significant progress in changing the Seminaries of the SBC, but the Colleges of the various state Conventions seem to be relatively unchanged. The liberals are fully entrenched in the Convention. There is the likelihood that the SBC will split, and if so it will seem advisable to the new network of fellowships to go ahead and join the SBC.

It will still be an unscriptural organization that will be the very opposite of what the New Testament teaches. No fundamental independent Baptist should ever affiliate with SBC, if they do they will give up their heritage.

Please note that when they met in Dallas they were taken on a tour of Arlington Baptist College in Arlington (the school of the World Baptist Fellowship), and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth which is the largest Seminary in the SBC. How sweet that they could cozy up together in a new direction that may well lead to their merger. Fundamental Baptists should be ashamed of themselves and repent in sackcloth and ashes. It is not likely to happen, but it is a hope of lovers of the truth.

The truth of the matter is that the Fellowships have given up many Baptist distinctives through compromise and on that road it is hard to stop, because it is a slippery slope. The International Baptist Network that is now in the works has appointed Gene Mims, a prominent author and office holder in the SBC to be the head of IBN. Is there any doubt where this is leading? Bible believing Baptist Churches and pastors should come out of this unholy alliance and stand for the truth, before it is too late.

The following article is reprinted word for word from the Baptist Bible Tribune, April 2005. This reveals their drift toward compromise and the Southern Baptist Convention. Both of these Fellowships are a result of the ministry of the late Dr. J. Frank Norris, pastor of the First Baptist Church of Fort Worth, Texas. He led the fight in the SBC against liberalism, and left it many years before his death in 1952.

The BBFI was the result of a split in the WBF in 1950. G. B. Vick, once a close associate with J. Frank Norris was the outstanding leader of the BBFI. It would be likely if these men still lived, they would oppose this compromise. At least we could hope that they would. Now we conclude with the article from the Baptist Bible Tribune, the official magazine of the BBFI.

–From Baptist Bible Tribune, April 2005

To Top

The Universal Church Theory

E. L. Bynum answers a reader’s question

Dear Bro. . . . :

Thank you for your recent letter containing a commendation for the Plains Baptist Challenger. Your letter was an encouragement to me.

You said in your letter, “I would very much appreciate your thought regarding ‘The Universal Church vs. the Local Church’ doctrines. When did the New Testament Church begin? Do you believe that the Scriptures teach both a universal and a local church?” My brother I shall answer this as clearly as I can in a brief letter.

My conviction is that our Lord Jesus Christ established His Church during His earthly ministry. As to the exact time, I rather believe that it is found in Mark 3:13-21 when he chose the 12 apostles. In 1 Cor. 12:28 Paul wrote, “And God hath set some in the church, first apostles . . . ” I cannot accept the teaching that says that the Church was founded at Pentecost. If it was, then it was founded by the Holy Spirit, and Jesus said “I will build my church” (Matt. 16:18). The orders for Church discipline were given before Pentecost (Matt. 18:15-19). The two Church ordinances of the Church, Baptism and the Lord’s Supper were both given before Pentecost (Matt. 3:16; 26:26-29). The Great Commission was given to the Church before Pentecost (Matt. 28:16-20). The Church had a business meeting before Pentecost (Acts 1:15-26). They had a Church roll before Pentecost, with about 120 names on it (Acts 1:15). The 3,000 that were saved and baptized on the day of Pentecost were added unto them (Acts 2:41). There was nothing else for them to be added to except the Church. You cannot add something to nothing.

As for the so-called Universal Church, I have never been able to find such a doctrine in the Bible. All saved people are in the family of God by the New Birth. However, all saved people are not Church members, because all have not been scripturally baptized and covenanted together into a local Church. The Church is first mentioned in Matt. 16:18 and some say that it is not clear what kind of a Church this was, but surely this is answered in the very next mention of the Church, where our Lord said “tell it to the Church.” You surely could not tell such a matter in Church discipline to a Universal Church.

As you know, our word Church is translated from Ekklesia, which means a called out assembly. There is no way that this word could be used to describe a universal Church. Israel is called the Church (Ekklesia) in the wilderness (Acts 7:38). They were called out of Egypt and assembled in the Wilderness. The unlawful mob in Ephesus is called an “assembly” (Ekklesia). They were dismissed by the town clerk, who told them that such matters would have to be decided in “a lawful assembly” (Ekklesia). This common usage of the word from which we get our word Church, could not be used of a universal assembly (Acts 19:39-41).

In the 115 times that the Church is mentioned in the New Testament, the overwhelming majority of the texts make it very clear that it is a local visible Church. In most instances it is very clear, such as “the Church of God which is at Corinth” (I Cor. 1:2), and many other instances. There are a few places where it is spoken of in a generic or institutional sense. I have heard it said that “the home is the backbone of our nation.” Everyone would understand that the speaker is not talking about a universal home. If asked to identify a home, he would immediately specify some particular home.

Scofield and others who teach the Universal Church constantly refer to 1 Cor. 12:13 as their proof text, but I believe that verse and chapter demolishes the Universal theory completely. I would not change one word in that verse as it is found in the KJV. There is no Spirit baptism in this verse, if there were, it would contradict Eph. 4:5 which reads, “One Lord, one faith, one baptism.” If there is only one baptism, then it must be either water baptism or Spirit baptism, it cannot be both. It is by the leadership of the Holy Spirit that we follow our Lord in Scriptural water baptism. The context of the chapter shows us the meaning of “by one Spirit” in this verse. “No man speaking BY THE SPIRIT of God calleth Jesus accursed” (v.3). Of course a man can call Jesus accursed, but he cannot do it “by the Spirit of God.” The Holy Spirit will never lead anyone to call Jesus accursed. “No man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but BY THE HOLY GHOST” (v.3). Now anyone can say that Jesus is the Lord, the Charismatics and cults (unsaved) do it all the time, but NO one can truthfully and honestly do it apart from the leadership of the Spirit. The Holy Spirit convicts and leads sinners to Christ as the Word is taught and preached. According to vs. 8-9, spiritual gifts were also “by the same Spirit.”

Of course the entire context of 1 Cor. 12 is devastating to the Universal Church theory. “Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular” (v. 27). This was spoken to “the church of God which is at Corinth” (1 Cor. 1:2). So it is the Church of God which is at Corinth that Pauls tells, “ye are the body of Christ” (v. 27). The local visible Scriptural Church is the body of Christ. This is the only kind of body that “whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it” (v. 26). A Universal Body could not suffer when one member suffers, because they would never even know about it, but a local Church body could. Some ask how Christ could be the head of all the bodies, if each local Scriptural Church is the body of Christ? The answer is, in the same way that he is the “head of every man” (1 Cor. 11:3).

The word that is translated body is of course the Greek “soma.” It is found about 146 times in the New testament, and most of the time it refers to a human body. It is used of Christ’s earthly body. When he came the first time, He needed a visible body to do the work that he came to do. Now that He is absent, He has left a local visible body to do His work, and I refer to the Church as the body of Christ. To use the English word body, or the Greek word “soma” to refer to an invisible universal something is the careless violation of the proper usage of these words. A cow has a body, but if she is butchered, cut up in steaks, roasts, and ground into hamburger, there is no way to speak of those scattered pieces of meat as a body.

The Scriptures speak of Christ being “the head over all things to the church, which is His body” (Eph. 1:22-23). How could Paul be referring to a universal body, when he had told the Elders of the Church at Ephesus, “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed THE CHURCH OF GOD . . . (Acts 20:28).

In fact I am convinced that there is not one word in the New Testament that is used to describe a Church that could truthfully be used to describe a universal body or Church. The Church is spoken of as a building. “In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit” (Eph. 2:21-22). This could never refer to a universal building or universal church. This building is “fitly framed,” it “groweth,” and it is “builded together.” In the lumber yard are all the materials to build a house. However you would never call those materials a house until they are fitly framed and builded together. Even when the truck delivers them out to the lot and stacks them up, it is not a building until it is put together.

The Church is called “the flock of God” (1 Pet. 5:2; Acts 20:28). In the latter passage it is clear that the flock and the church are one and the same thing. It has elders or pastors to feed it the Word of God. One sheep in Montana, another sheep in Colorado, another sheep in Florida, and one more sheep in Texas does not constitute a flock. Only if they are brought together are they a flock, according to the Bible and Webster’s definition of flock.

Churches are called “golden candlesticks” (Rev. 1:12,20). A study of Rev. 1-3 reveals that each golden candlestick represented a local visible Church located in a certain geographical place. And thus we could examine every word that is used of Church or Churches in the New Testament and we find the same thing. God is not careless in His usage of words. When He wanted to use a word to describe the Holy Spirit, who is invisible and yet everywhere, He used “Pneuma” which denotes the wind or breath. He did not use a word which means something local and visible to describe the Holy Spirit who is everywhere. God is just not that careless, in fact He is always exact. It should be evident that if the Church was universal and invisible, then God would have used such a word to describe the Church. However, we find that all of the words used refer to something that is local and visible.

When I started, I meant to write only a brief letter, but it is so easy to be misunderstood, I soon realized that I must write a longer reply. I hope that you will understand my position.

May the blessings of the Lord remain upon you and your labors for Him.

Yours in His Name,

E. L. Bynum

(Reprinted from the Plains Baptist Challenger, Sept. 1982)

To Top

Premillennialism vs. postmillennialism

By J. Frank Norris

The issue, Premillennial truth versus Postmillennial error, is at the bottom, underneath this whole discussion; it is the Premillennial system of truth versus postmillennial system of error. It is more than the question of “Pre” or “post,” it is two systems that are diametrically opposed to each other.

Premillennial truth emphasizes Bible teaching; postmillennial error, education.

Premillennial truth emphasizes regeneration, cleaning up the individual, postmillennial error emphasizes reformation, cleaning up society.

Premillennial truth emphasizes divine leadership; postmillennialism error emphasizes human leadership.

Premillennial truth emphasizes gospelizing; postmillennial error emphasizes institutionalizing.

Premillennial truth emphasizes the hastening of the Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, the coming of the King; postmillennial error emphasizes the gradual process of saving the world.

Premillennial truth emphasizes the freedom of the local church; postmillennial error emphasizes denominationalism.

Premillennial truth puts the emphasis on church sent independent evangelistic missionaries; postmillennial error emphasizes building a denominational headquarters.

Premillennial truth puts the emphasis on a Holy Spirit-led ministry; postmillennial error puts the emphasis on a machine-controlled ministry.

Premillennial truth puts the emphasis on sending out evangelistic missionaries; postmillennial error emphasizes sending out enlisted men, to go out and get everybody to sign a pledge.

Premillennial truth emphasizes spiritual motivation; postmillennial error emphasizes a worldly program.

Premillennial truth emphasizes uplifting the sinner by the New Birth; postmillennial error emphasizes uplifting society by social service.

Premillennial truth puts the emphasis on grace; postmillennial error puts the emphasis on works.

Premillennial truth puts the emphasis on witnessing for Christ to the whole world; postmillennial error on the tyranny of denominationalism to the whole.

To Top

Hedonism in the Church

By Bill Mosley

Although defining hedonism may be somewhat difficult for some, a wide scope of Americans are certainly aware of its definition. For this reason some time will be taken to explain. It is derived from the Greek word ‘ hedone,’ which means pleasure or lust. In the strictest sense it denotes sensual pleasure. It is used six times in the KJV New Testament. In each instance it is not only unacceptable before God, it also reveals individual characteristics of carnality. It is the evidence of a pleasure or lust which takes priority over all else. Especially does it overshadow glorifying God in proper praise.

Our Lord gave us the first insight to this word in Luke 8:14. The setting is Jesus explaining the parable of the sower to His disciples. The seed being the Word of God, Jesus explains the circumstances and results of the seed sown. “And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection.” This third exposition of sown seed reveals those hearing the Word and proceeding on in life unaffected. Three things choked out the effect of the Word. ‘Cares’ or common distractions, ‘riches’ with the idea of having an abundance, and ‘pleasures’ [hedone] of this life or events that allure the most staunch individuals to drop all else and yield to pleasure.

Distractions of this life may hinder the worldly from receiving the Word of God, but few diversions will ever hinder pleasure seeking. Performance at work may suffer because of life’s involvements, but pleasure must not go wanting. Having an abundance tends to cause cares to somewhat pale into being unworthy of attention. The appetite for pleasure incites a no expense barred attitude for fulfillment. The statement of our Lord above is especially sad because of the eternal results of the Word of God being choked by pleasure.

Disposition of Pleasure

Paul’s instruction to Titus before he was to depart to Crete included a warning. Titus must be made aware that the Cretians were a lazy lot. They falsified their real lifestyle. One of their own prophets declared they were inactive and unemployed. This was not something that had just happen, they were consistently of this nature. (Titus 1:12) “One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies.”

Once they were saved under the preaching of the Word, these things must change. Paul pointed out that sometimes, before salvation, we too were foolish in the same manner. (Titus 3:3) “For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.” Even to the point of being in bondage to hedonism, or pleasure. This verse is, of course, speaking of pre-salvation days. This is a good place to point out that many who claim to love the Lord with all their heart too often spend more time and money for pleasure than praise to Him.

It can certainly be assumed that the predisposition of pleasure seeking is downright laziness. This will likely be referred to later in this writing, but it takes less effort to entertain than to evangelize. Pleasure enhancing talent(?) takes less preparation than practical edifying of the church by the peaching or teaching of God’s Word. This is too often demonstrated in the worship hour of many churches.

Division of Pleasure

Hedonism sets up a wall against peace and prayer. James in writing to the twelve tribes scattered abroad pointed out some of their problems. In James 4:1,3 hedone is translated ‘lusts.’ So lust in these verses implies that their real hearts desire was that which would please them, rather than considering what would bring glory to the Lord. They were faced with carnal inclinations brought about because of sensual desires. Their nature was a strong regard for that which pleased them as opposed to yielding to thoughts of the welfare of others. James answered the question in 4:1a with a question in 4:1b that had but one answer. “Whence” are the wars and fighting among you, can be answered only by “hence” it comes from the war within you. The encounter that was between them was the result of the warfare within them. Their own desire for fleshly pleasure to have it’s own way in their life superceded all else, even at the expense of others.

This obsession hindered their prayers as noted in James 4:2. ‘Lust’ in this verse, though a different Greek word, does give the strong implication of a heart set on seeking pleasure. A longing desire to indulge in the practice of pleasure. He revealed there was no other motive in their mind that would allow any thing less. They largely had left off any meaningful sincere prayer. Yet they had made a pretense of prayer that had no effect because of the results they desired. (James 4:3) Their asking in this verse could not have followed the model prayer of our Lord in Matt. 6. The Father in heaven’s name had become less than hallowed to them. They could not pray that His will would be done or else their own pleasure would go wanting. This group was too busy fighting to forgive. Adversity was already their plight, how could they pray not to be led into trials?

In such a case as these were in could have only one result to their prayers. They received not! Selfishness in their prayers is made clear by their desire for an answer. Their praying could only be determined as being selfish. That they might “consume it upon [their] lusts.” It was for their own glorification. It was not even for those with whom they were worshiping. It cannot be overlooked that gratification of self must be extinguished before glorification of the Saviour can be accomplished.

Denial of Pleasure

God leaves us a record of Moses’ determination to serve properly. Neither position or property could bring around any other choice but to choose affliction over affluence. He had advanced both in years and yearning to be with the people of God. By faith Moses exchanged the throne of Egypt for the suffering affliction with his brethren. (Heb. 11:24,25) The cost seemed little when the end result was considered.

Paul’s writings to Titus reminds us of the benefits of the grace of God. Sinners are not only saved by His grace, they are also taught by His grace. “Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; ...” (Titus 2:12) Worldly lusts are to be denied if righteousness and godliness are to prevail in the believer’s life. Jesus taught His disciples in Matt. 16:24 that if any would follow Him they “must deny [themselves], and take up his cross.” One then that considered personal preferences could not go in the same direction as the Saviour. When self is not denied, the Lord God is sure to be denied. Yet keeping self disabled, under subjection (1 Cor. 9:27), has accompanying benefits that far outweigh satisfying the flesh. (2 Tim 2:12) “If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: . . .”

Losing sight of future blessings is mostly the result of self-centeredness. Yet the Bible is full of promises of heavenly pleasure for faithfulness. To reign with the Lord suggests participation with Him in all the Father possesses. (Rom 8:16,17) “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint_heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.”

When these things are considered, the decision Moses made is worth more than all the pleasures the world can offer. What a blessing to read, “For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” (Rom. 8:18)

Distinguishing Pleasure

The things discussed in this article do have a bearing on its title. Hedonism is in some ways akin to humanism. Hedonism is principally a teaching that only that which is pleasurable is good. Humanism, on the other hand, is concerned with that of humanistic values and achievements. The sad truth is that in the modern generic church, both hedonism and humanism often surface in so called worship service. Often far too much pleasure is aroused when personal achievements are manifested.

Distinguishing between praise to our Lord and pleasure to the flesh is sometimes difficult. To say that our natural bodies are not effected by God honoring talent would be absurd. It is certainly true that singing hymns is biblically approved and lifts the heart. The One Who sanctified the saved and was unashamed to call them brethren, did sing with them in the church. (Heb. 2:10-12) Jesus also sang with His church at the first supper of remembrance of Him. (Matt. 26:30) David was referred to as the sweet psalmist of Israel. (2 Sam. 23:1) Giving thanks unto the Lord, calling upon his name while declaring His accomplishments for His prime creation, are worthy introductions to proclaim His mighty works in song. (1 Chron. 16:8-10) The ultimate result being the brightening of the heart of those who seek the Lord. (v. 10). To emphasize this, the Holy Spirit placed these words again in Psalm 105:1-3.

With this in mind, how can it be determined whether singing is simply a performance or praise? To put it in the most simple manner possible, is attention brought to the musician or to the Master? It has been pointed out earlier that before salvation we were all sometimes as foolish as were the Cretians. Serving “divers lusts and pleasures.” Yet it must be acknowledged that much too often that which should be pleasing to the Lord brings more pleasure and attention to the performer than to the Master.

Talented families appearing in church circles may soon become popular enough to be invited to neighboring churches. After a time they become so widely liked and appreciated that they are seldom in their home church because of appointments. As popularity grows a question that is sure to soon be asked is, “Have ya’ll had the singing Haystacks at ya’ll’s church yet?” As an explanation of what it meant to have them there must be defined as being “the most spiritual service we have had in years!” This does nothing to encourage the laboring pastor whose talent may be nothing more or less that preaching the pure word of God. Let it be noted here that “it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.” (1 Cor. 1:21) Be sure that the foolishness of singing will not accomplish the same. It has already been pointed out that singing has a great part in proper worship to the Lord. But it must be proper both in message and method.

This point must be made also in the confines of the local church setting. Since the Lord has promised to be with His church regardless of its size (Matt. 18:20), it seems imperative that the ultimate commitment of the church would be to please Him. The vast majority of the times the record reveals the Lord being with His church, he was teaching or preaching. He reminded them often to remember. The response of the church to the Saviour’s instruction should be Peter’s words in Matthew 16:6, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.” We must listen when He speaks through His Word. When this is recognized there will be no need to explain why the singing is not better or the message is not clearer. You can be sure when someone says, “It’s not about the money,” that it is altogether about the money. Likewise when someone says, “It’s the words, not how I sound,” it is indeed about the sound and not the Saviour.

Conclusion

Is the singing in your church the performance of a person or praise to the Lord Jesus? If this is not faced accurately, worship can quickly turn worldly. When we fail to admit that self may be standing precisely between us and the Master, glory to God will rapidly turn to giddiness. When joy in the Lord gives way to fun for the living, the light will grow dim in Israel’s tent. Eli, the priest of the Lord, fell off his seat by the gate when he was told the Ark of the Covenant had been lost to the Philistines. As a result he broke his neck because of his excess weight. Likely caused by the lack of control of an appetite for self satisfaction. (1 Sam. 4) Eli had neglected to correct the leadership in the congregation of the Lord. This resulted in the Lord’s presence being removed, and lives being lost to the enemy. The only time in the Bible record that the name, Ichabod, was given to a child was on this occasion. It means, the glory of the Lord is departed. What a sobering thought that Ichabod could be wrote over the door of one of the Lord’s churches. If hedonism (pleasure and performance only) is prevalent there, be sure the Lord is not pleased.

To Top

Pastor Announces Retirement

By E. L. Bynum

It was under the leadership of the Lord that I resigned as Pastor of Tabernacle Baptist Church on March 20, 2005. This was a difficult decision, but God gave me great peace about it. My resignation will become effective when the Lord provides a new Pastor. Until then I will continue my duties as Pastor and will keep on doing everything I can to meet the needs that exist.

I have been pastor of the Church for 44 years, and I was the Assistant Pastor for 7 years. That means that I have been full time at this Church for 51 years. It has been my blessed privilege to minister to this great Church, which has a rich history of service to the Lord.

What I have accomplished has been because of the prayers and labor of the saints. God has been good, and all the glory goes to Him.

I love the members of this Church and I resigned without any bitterness or regret. I believe that this Church can have a great future. I am not quitting the ministry and will continue to preach as long as the Lord opens doors. I have no intention of seeking the pastorate of another Church.

We would ask all of our readers to pray that God will send the Pastor of His choosing.

To Top

Email Received

I just wanted to take the time to say thank you for your web-site. It means so much to me to know that there is a web site that is a fundamental premillennial believing. I rededicated my life to the Lord a couple years ago. I ask God to use me and make me bold so that I could glorify him only. Since then I have been teaching a woman’s Class in Sunday school. I felt that God was leading me this way, but yet I ask Lord are you sure you want me? But yet I knew it was supposed to be me, I had taught small children and it’s not hard to get on their level of understanding, but adult women. Well our class was started on women of the Bible, again I thought Oh my. But I know in my heart that is what God wanted me to do because there is such a sweet spirit in that class room. We started with Eve and I will be studying Esther this Sunday. When I open my bible to Esther I said you have got to be kidding me, I was one of those people who liked to read the New testament more than the Old — I told my self that I could understand it better, well Praise the Lord if he is the center of what you are doing he will lead a person to understanding. And he led me to your Esther outline with your help and Gods Guidance I understand it more now. I live in Hayesville NC and you are In Texas Thousands of miles away and you are blessing an Old Sinner saved by the Grace of God like me. Thank You so much, Barbara Moss

I have really enjoyed studying and teaching from your outlines and lessons. I was wondering if you have any lessons on the Book of Ephesians? You’re Brother in Christ, Adrian T. Berry

Dear Pastor, I was overjoyed to find your web site. I do lots of searching since I am a 64-year-old woman who is constantly seeking guidance from Jesus. You are a voice crying in the wilderness of our society. I do not believe Bush is a born again Christian and I know Billy Graham is not true to the Word. Thank you for your web site. Noreen Jackson

Hi Brother Bynum, This is a note to thank you for the encouragement that you have been since I have trusted Christ. One of the Christian men I know told me about your web site and it has helped me immensely. I have read much of what you have on your web site. I especially enjoy the Sunday School lessons on the books of the Bible that you have. I have actually used all of them now to study God’s Word and have grown in a big way in my walk with God through them. I was wondering if there were going to be any more lessons put on the web site as I would like to continue to do this. I have studied through all the ones that are currently there. Also do you know any other good churches that have lessons such as this on their web site. Keep on keeping on for Christ, Greg

My Dear Brother, Thank you for your faithfulness down through the years! I have appreciated the stance you have continued to hold and know that God is honored! I have been asked regarding “the New Living Bible.” A church is changing their Bibles in the pew to be this...... I advised the person who asked that I believed that it was a continuation of the Living Bible that Ken Taylor put out. That person went back to “officials” in the church who advised that I am wrong......that “90 translators” (?????????) translated this new version. I have not been able to find anything on the Internet that would give me good information. Do you have any information or can you advise me as to where I can look to obtain this information? The Lord bless you my brother......have a great day. By His Grace Alone, I Am, Vic Perry

Dear Pastor Bynum, I was on the Internet today looking for the Jack Van Impe’s web site, when I ran onto your response to him. I also was getting ready to email him. I was going to tell him how I felt as a former Catholic that he was leading people astray and not preaching the true Gospel. I felt so much better after I read your letter because I was feeling like I was the only one who was feeling his teachings were wrong. As an ex-catholic and now a born again Christian I knew what he was preaching was wrong and I wanted to let him know that Catholics are not Christians and he is leading them away from the truth !!!! I just wanted to respond and say I think what you said were my words said for me. A follower of Jesus Christ, Ronni Barton

I am writing back to say thank you for your web site it’s really good. I am happy to say that lesson I’ve learned from that experience is that we are not here to please others but only my GOD. I love him very much and I can’t live without him. 2 Samuel 7:20 for thou Lord GOD knowest thy servants. He knows me and brings me joy even in my time of sorrows he really does. When I read his words in my time of need, he always brings a smile to my face: thanks for taking time to read this note. GOD bless you. AN

Dear Pastor Bynum, We will be praying with you all during your Missions Conference! We pray the Lord gives you all an excellent spirit, with great preaching and wonderful fellowship. Thank you all for the prayers, support and encouragement in the work of the Lord! Warm regards in Christ our Lord, Frank Tottingham, PhD. PO Box 2587, WAGGA WAGGA NSW 2650 AUSTRALIA

Dear Bro. Bynum, I just received a letter to all missionaries inviting us to attend your 44th Missions Conference. As I will be in Australia, I will not be able to attend. We pray the Conference will be blessed of the LORD. In His service, Bro. Mike Meredith

Dear Pastor, I would like to use the statement of faith you have listed on your web page if possible. I believe it represents what I believe and it would save me a lot of time typing and proofreading. If not I will understand. Your Servant in Christ Richard Roberts (Permission was granted.)

In regard to Here We Stand, We Can Do No Other! B R A V O!!

To Top

44th Annual Bible Mission
Conference a Success

By E. L. Bynum

The 2005 Conference was outstanding in a number of ways. We had the most pastors and missionaries that we have ever had. The pastors were from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Colorado, Ohio, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Alabama, and Texas. We have always had good preaching, but I do believe that consistently this was the best preaching of all our Conferences.

Missionaries were here representing mission fields around the world, and their testimonies, and sermons and displays were a blessing.

In addition, we probably had more lay people to travel long distances to be in the meeting, than we have had before. Some pastors brought a number of their members to enjoy the Conference.

We are still rejoicing and praising God for his abundant blessings for the 44th time.

To Top

News & Views

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.)

Battle Won — War Continues — Several news sources have reported the dismissal of criminal charges against the Christians who protested last October at a homosexual event in Philadelphia. Believers have won this battle but be sure the war is not over. The captain of this army of sin saturated soldiers, the devil, will be knocking at the door of righteousness until the Captain of our salvation descends to catch away His army. Let believers never fall into the Jehoshaphat’s trap of “I am as thou art, my people as thy people, my horses as thy horses.” (1 Kgs. 22:4) It has always cost to take a stand, yet the eternal returns far outweigh the suffering. (Phil. 3:8-11) — (W. W. Mosley, hereafter WWM.)

The Blight of Liquor — The study, released by the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration in mid-February, builds on data released last September that found, on average, more than one in five Americans had gone on a drinking binge during the previous 30 days and about 6 percent had smoked marijuana. (Baptist Press, 2/24/05) This reveals the lack of wisdom that permeates society. If this survey is true in most sectors of this nation, think of the number of our lawmakers who are often under the influence, even as they consider what is best for the nation. No doubt many of this 20% go on a drinking binge more than once a month. (Prov. 20:1) “Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.” — WWM

Same-Sex Partnerships, Unions, Marriage — Here are three peas in the same pod of sin. Connecticut is close to being the second state to legalize civil unions for homosexuals. Vermont has already done so. California uses the term ‘domestic partnerships’ for the same act. Homosexuals are organizing in many states for the sole purpose of defying the natural law of God. There was no ‘help meet’ (Gen. 2:18) for Adam among all other creatures. This term implies an aid such as a mate or opposite, a counterpart. (Strong’s Hebrew dictionary) God created a mate or opposite for Adam and he called her Woman. God approved by creation the union of a man and a woman. The Woman conceived by Adam and gave birth to a son. Any other fabricated ‘partnership, union, marriage’ cannot be made the plan of God by the vote of sin saturated senses. Nor can the act of homosexuality bring the same result as when Adam knew his wife. (Prov. 14:34) “Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.” — WWM

Preaching vs. Pacifying — “...numerous influential voices within evangelicalism suggest that the age of the expository sermon is now past. In its place, some contemporary preachers now substitute messages intentionally designed to reach secular or superficial congregations – messages which avoid preaching a biblical text, and thus avoid a potentially embarrassing confrontation with biblical truth. A subtle shift visible at the onset of the 20th century has become a great divide as the 21st century gets underway. The shift from expository preaching to more topical and human-centered approaches has grown into a debate over the place of Scripture in preaching, and the nature of preaching itself.” This quote from Baptist Press, 2/24/05, sounds an alarming truth. Those age 50 and over can sense a decided difference in preaching over the past half century. Preaching about a burning eternal hell for lost sinners have given way to soothing testimonies of making a decision. The prophets are to blame and the people love it so. (Jer. 5:31) “The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof?” It may not be in vogue to preach the Word but it is a command preachers must follow. — WWM

The Influence of Christian(?) Rock — The Irish rock group, U2, have latched on to college students as Christians. One had this to say at U2"s appearance at Calvin College: “They have so much more influence as Christians than most other people who claim to be Christian.” (Christianity Today, 2/21/05) It was good this student used the word ‘claim’ in identifying Christians with less influence than U2. Many assert they are Christian but deny it by their lifestyle. The mystery of all this is why would any college, Christian or secular, have U2 on campus? Such rock groups are assisting once biblically sound churches to dumb down not only in appearance but in worship as well. Beware!! — WWM

The Proper Argument — Judge Roy Moore, Alabama, argued his case well by using the same principle articulated by the Founding Father who thundered: “Can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we have removed their only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of the people that these liberties are the gift of God?” David challenges every man who would declare there is no need for God. (Psa. 11:3) “If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?” The ACLU, who were instrumental in removing Judge Moore from office, will one day acknowledge with a resounding affirmative that both earthly and eternal liberties come from a Holy God. Pray that God will give the same conviction to all judges of their accountability to the true God. If our nation endures it will be because we believe and proclaim “...that there is none other God but one.” (1 Cor. 8:4) — WWM

Can Two Walk Together? — The Royal Navy has turned to Stonewall, the gay lobby group, for advice on how to recruit and retain homosexual sailors. Senior officers want to encourage more gay and lesbian sailors, estimated at 2,100, to “come out,” paving the way for the first openly gay admiral. The partnership, to be announced tomorrow, will provide the template for a wider change in the culture of the armed forces. Ben Summerskill, chief executive of Stonewall, said: “We hope that the RAF and the army will be following shortly.” (Sunday Times — Britain, 2/20/05) Another article reported the British “government was forced by the European Court of Human Rights to withdraw its ban on homosexuality in the military.” This is only a taste of what is in store for citizens of the new world order. An openly gay Lt. Commander is “now comfortable taking his partner to official functions...” This sordid example will likely be followed by other nations. The idea of a continental court forcing this move on a nation within it’s boundaries is more than frightening. Think what a powerful UN might require of those nations within. (Amos 3:3) “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” It is much better to be right and alone with God than to be wrong in a crowd. — WWM

Praise God for History — In 1610, Virginia passed a law requiring its leaders to give “allegiance” to God. Similarly, in 1641, Massachusetts adopted a law banning the worship of “any other god but the Lord God.” – The colonies of Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire and Pennsylvania all outlawed adultery. – The commandment prohibiting the bearing of “false witness” became “the foundation of our judicial system.” (Baptist Press, 3/1/05) Some of the aforementioned states now approve of homosexual unions unashamedly. You can only imagine how their 17th century counterparts would disdain such governments. — WWM

Life With Islam — Indonesia: More than 30 churches in West Java are still searching for approved worship facilities after objections from Muslim neighbors forced them to close last year. Recently two churches were forced to close after applying for permits to hold Christmas services in private homes. Local bylaws require approval from the surrounding community before a permit is granted to build a church or to hold church services in an existing building. Since West Java is a Muslim-majority area, permits are seldom granted. (VOM, 3/1/05) Islam’s tactics will not change in America once Islam has a majority. It is still the little foxes that spoil the vine. (SOS 2:15) — WWM

Hollywood & Hybels — “Hollywood actor Stephen Baldwin joins Bill Hybels, Rick Warren, Mark Mittelberg and others for the first two Contagious Church Conferences in Southern California and Tampa, April 8-9 and April 15-16, respectively.” (Willow News, 3/2/05) Hollywood isn’t the only place performers get together. It would likely enhance the Hollywood appearance if Benny Hinn was included. Before being accused of being cynical, how drastic would these meetings change if our Lord appeared at the height of the performance? John the Baptist just might require the same as he did of the Pharisees and Sadducees in Matt. 3:7,8. — WWM

Good Recommendation — “I believe in saints. I’ve met the comics; I’ve met the promoters; I’ve met the founder who puts his name on the front of the building so people will know he founded it. I’ve met converted cowboys not too well converted. I have met all kinds of weird Christians throughout the United States and Canada, but my heart is looking for saints. I want to meet the people who are like the Lord Jesus Christ....Actually, what we want and ought to have is the beauty of the Lord our God in human breasts. A winsome, magnetic saint is worth 500 promoters and gadgeteers and religious engineers.” — A.W. Tozer

The Cost of Confessing Christ — A Tennessee TV reporter was recently suspended after an e-mail he wrote to a viewer about his Christian faith ended up posted on the Internet by a competitor’s reporter. Last month, managers of Memphis-based WREG-TV took Andy Wise off the air after his faith-based e-mail was forwarded to WMC-TV reporter Darrell Phillips, who posted it on his personal Web site with Wise’s permission, the Associated Press (AP) reported. (Charisma, 3/8/05) Pornography is acceptable on the internet yet if a Christian expresses their faith in Christ they just may lose their job. This day of which the Lord spoke may be closer than we think: (John 16:2) “They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.” — WWM

Men In High Places — To the utter shock and dismay of most Americans, the unthinkable happened in May of 2004. “Gay” marriage actually became legalized in the heavily populated, highly liberal, and largely Catholic state of Massachusetts due to four radical, activist judges. (Catholic Exchange, 3/7/05) (Psa. 12:8) “The wicked walk on every side, when the vilest men are exalted.” (Prov. 14:34) “Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.” There is no doubt why liberals oppose the appointment of conservative judges to the nation’s highest courts. The wicked are not through walking on every side, and it means nothing to them that they bring the reproach of sin upon America. — WWM

Who Else Could Lead? — The Chapel Hill school(UNC) has removed official recognition of Alpha Iota Omega, a Christian fraternity, because its officers have refused to sign an anti-discrimination clause on a university application that would have required the group to accept any student as a member, regardless of religion. (WorldNetDaily,8/15/04) This same university “withheld recognition” of another Christian fellowship because the group “required its leaders to be Christians.” Sounds like a move the UN would make in demanding US troops follow a communist commander. The devil is expert in placing less than dedicated Christian leadership even in the church. Arguing that a little of the world won’t damage holiness is like asserting a little liquor won’t lead to drunkenness. Remember the “little foxes?” No? Look it up in the KJV. — WWM

ACLU, CPR, PPFA/Evil Associates — The attempt to ban partial birth abortion in Michigan is being challenged by the ACLU the Center for Reproductive Rights and Planned Parenthood Federation of America, even before it comes into effect. The law, which is to take effect March 30, is the state’s third attempt, with a previous piece of legislation vetoed by the Democrat Governor the last time. (LifeSiteNews, 3/3/05) PPFA lead in the pro-abortion coalition. They make possible most of the abortions performed. The biblical plan for parents is “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” (Prov. 22:6) That training begins at the time of conception. Caring for the development of this new being that already has a soul, is the parents responsibility. When God breathed into the nostrils of Adam he became a living soul. The newly conceived person is kept alive by the breath of God through their mother. They are a “living soul” immediately. Adam did not gradually become a person. Neither does one newly conceived. — WWM

Compromise Is Not Acceptable — Speaking of Catholic Prime Minister Paul Martin who supports abortion and same-sex marriage, Bishop Fred Henry said he would give him a blessing rather than Communion. Yes, I would refuse him Communion, he said. Bishop Henry explained, I felt in conscience that I had to write a pastoral letter to my people in which I explained that his position was morally inconsistent and incoherent and that there was no way in which he could claim to be a good practicing Catholic and at the same time espouse this pushing of the same sex union legislation and his position on abortion. (LifeSiteNews, 3/2/05) God will not bless the ungodly. He will not even compromise with a blessing. The Canadian border is closed for shipping cattle to the U.S. because of the mad-cow disease. Pray the same closing will apply to the immoral convictions of their PM. Leaders like Ahab disguise themselves in the battle while moral leaders are open to the consequences of the fray. (2 Chron. 18) — WWM

Fools For Christ — Jury selection began today (March 7) in a federal trial in which a public university in Pennsylvania is being sued because school officials tried to have a Christian student involuntarily committed to a mental hospital. Back in 1999 Temple University sponsored the controversial and blasphemous play Corpus Christi, in which Christ is portrayed as a homosexual. Michael Marcavage, then a Christian student at the Philadelphia school, complained to administrators. Temple officials eventually tried to have Marcavage committed to a mental institution because of his opposition to the play. (AgapePress, 3/7/05) More and more Christians are not only harassed but charged with promoting hatred simply for witnessing to the lost. (1 Cor. 4:10; 1 Pet. 4:12-14) — WWM

Counting The Cost & Profit — Making a comparison of Mel Gibson with William Tyndale, as some have, is like comparing an earthworm with a rattlesnake. To insinuate the money making efforts of Gibson are even remotely likened to Tyndale’s effort to get the Gospel of Christ to every English speaking plowman is less than complimentary to the latter. Gibson filled his coffers while Tyndale went to a burning coffin. Movie production on any subject will never replace complete sacrifice for the cause of Christ. — WWM

True To The Koran? — The murder of a Coptic Christian family in New Jersey in January (17th) is causing many to wonder if radical Islamic vengeance has hit the streets of America. . . The website Jihad Watch quoted the New York Post as saying family members who viewed photos of the bodies observed that Sylvia, who would have turned 16 the next day, apparently was attacked with greater savagery. The killers not only slit her throat, but slashed a huge gash in her chest and stabbed her in the wrist, where she had a tattoo of a Coptic cross. (Berean Call, 3/4/05) Nothing of material value was taken. Be sure that Islam is not the peaceful religion it claims, nor do the assertions of others make it so. In Islam ruled countries Christians are a target. Why would Islam change for America’s Christians? — WWM

Sad Statistics — Australia “knocking back a regular pint of beer or a glass of wine is costing an average family $80 a week, new research shows. Over a year, a family of four spends about $4135 on alcohol, guzzling on average 44 slabs of beer, 14 bottles of spirits and 77 bottles of wine. Beer accounts for more than 45 per cent of the family’s annual alcohol budget, while bottled wine consumes 22 per cent of spending.” (Daily Telegraph, via AIBN, 1/28/05) Wine is still a mocker and strong drink continues to open up the loud mouths. (Prov. 20:1) It is sorrowfully true in America that food for families go wanting because of the sin of drinking. Rent remains unpaid as well as utilities for light and warmth because income is spent for intoxicants. What a selfish lot are those who are given to strong drink. (Isa. 5:11) — WWM

Too Moral? — “LANSING – Prompted by intense parental scrutiny, the Lansing Board of Education has barred an abstinence-only presentation from its middle school, at least for this semester. Opponents of the program . . . argued that a focus on marriage could upset children from nontraditional families and that the organization’s Christian affiliation was inappropriate for a public school.” “What upset many parents, though, was the way that message was wrapped around the . . . basic tenet of waiting for marriage. ‘It should be taught as a health choice, not a moral choice’ in the public school” said one mother. (Ithaca Journal [NY], via AIBN, 1/16/05) How about a healthy marriage choice? Would that be acceptable? (Heb. 13:4) “Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.” — WWM

Sons Of The Fathers — Even though the U.S. government desired that a San Diego landmark remain where it has stood for more than 50 years, city fathers in this sprawling Southern California city have determined they would rather see the Mt. Soledad cross dismantled and moved. (AgapePress, 3/9/05) These are the sons and grandsons of the very men who placed the cross on the mountain. Although Job may have not had this in mind it would certainly apply. (Job 24:2) “Some remove the landmarks; they violently take away flocks, and feed thereof.” Removing the cross is not all this city is going to lose. Gradually but surely every reminder of the crucified and risen Saviour is being removed from the land whose motto is “In God we trust.” Clint Eastwood and others producing movies that imply God is dead or of no value, is not nearly as disturbing as national, state, and civic leaders removing from view reminders of God and His Son. Maybe some father or mother could not answer their little child’s question, “What does that cross mean?” God help a nation that cannot give a ready answer to this question. — WWM

Another Step Backward — A mental health expert has been removed from an advisory panel of a large behavioral health company because of his belief that homosexuality can be changed. (AgapePress, 3/9/05) God is still able to save to the uttermost those who come to Him through Jesus Christ. (Heb. 7:25) The mental health expert above may not have had this in mind but it can’t be dismissed. God gave them up to their own vile affections. (Rom. 1:25-27) But this behavior can be changed when repented of and faith is placed in Christ Jesus. The outcome being a new creature, a changed person. (2 Cor. 5:17) “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” — WWM

To Top