/2002_07 by Uplook

OCTOBER 2002

DON’T BE LEFT OUT IN THE COLD: Conference information see pages 15 & 18

Founded in 1927 as Look on the Fields, UPLOOK is published eleven times a year by Uplook Ministries, 813 North Ave., N.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Phone: (616) 456-9166 Fax: (616) 456-5522 Website: http://www.uplook.org E-mail: uplook@uplook.org ISSN #1055-2642 Printed in USA. © Copyright 2002 Uplook Ministries

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UPLOOK O C T O B E R

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F E AT U R E S

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TOO HARD? Donald Norbie

REPORT FROM THE GASPÉ Gerald St. Laurent

THE ART OF VISITATION Herman Luhm

SURVEY OF RELIGIOUS BELIEFS David Wilson

HALLMARKS OF THE ASSEMBLY Chart

BE PREPARED FOR GIVING D. W. Brealey

PREPARING FOR THE LORD’S SUPPER J. Boyd Nicholson, Sr. 21

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TO DRINK OR NOT TO DRINK Charles Taylor

THE INFLUENCE OF MUSIC F. W. Krummacher

ONE NATURISM David Dunlap

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Cover montage: John B. Nicholson III

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Volume 69 Number 7

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THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX I can’t keep the lid on it any longer.

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It has been a favorite project that teachers have given to elementary students—a shoebox diorama. A hole is cut in the top of the box to let in light and another hole in the end for viewing. Then the child is intended to use his creativity (aided usually by those shoebox veterans, Mom and Dad) to create a Lilliputian world in the box. Twigs become trees, pebbles become boulders, and cotton makes do for snow. A few figures—not always in proportion—complete the scene. One week long ago God did the project Himself.* He also made a little world within the circumscribed walls of time and space, and populated it with creatures. He covered it up with a lid of blue. Here and there in the top the light shone through. But something happened in God’s box-world that never happened in our little boxes. Even though the creatures were very small, they began to think themselves entirely out of proportion to what they really were. They were convinced that, if only they exerted their independence from the Box Maker, they would be as He was! What madness! Yet today, many tear-stained millennia later, the majority of box-dwellers not only seek to live independent of their Creator, they wish to convince us that there is no one outside the box at all. Not surprisingly, the box and its contents are in terrible shape. Enter the Box Maker’s Son. Full of compassion for the silly creatures, He willingly offered Himself for a mission so radical, so stupendous, that only God would have thought of it (see Rom. 11:33-34). He would enter the box! Enter it, not as the mighty Heir of Everything but as a baby box-dweller! O the wonder of it— that the box could survive His entering it—and then, a greater wonder still—that He would let the boxdwellers hurl Him out of the box, rejecting His claims to the box and His offer to help. However, the wonder of all wonders is this—that He not only forgave us for such defiance, but used it as the basis to provide a way for the box-dwellers to leave the little box some day and live with Him in the Land Beyond the Blue. The sky’s the limit? Not anymore. In fact, every believer is treated as a pilgrim just passing through this Land of Little Things, a stranger who doesn’t fit in here. The Box Maker’s Son declared (just before He left the box), “…the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that Thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that Thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.…As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world” (Jn. 17:14-18). Not belonging to the box? Sent into the box? Were we not always here? Not according to the Lord Jesus. We were “born from above,” the meaning of the Greek word ano-then, and translated “born again” in John 3. That’s why our citizenship “is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Phil. 3:20). So when you’re feeling boxed in, remember you’re only here temporarily. We’re heaven’s agents, here on a mission of everlasting significance. We need to get the job done, the way heaven wants it done. Then we’re out of here. Goodbye, little box. The Land Beyond the Blue is waiting.

J. B. Nicholson, Jr. * This illustration is not entirely without biblical connection. Rather than a shoebox, the Lord calls the earth His footstool (Isa. 66:1). If the stellar heavens are His throne and earth His footstool, what will the palace be like?

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Too Hard? Token commitment = token blessing; total commitment =?

When Jeroboam led the ten tribes in rebellion against Rehoboam, he decided to set up his own religion in the north. He said to the people, “It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem” (1 Ki.12:28, NKJV). God had commanded His people to go up to Jerusalem several times a year to worship. But Jeroboam was concerned that this practice would weaken his hold on the people. He would make a religion more convenient for them, with local shrines. A friend was recently visiting some families who used to be in fellowship in a New Testament assembly. He suggested that they start meeting together, break bread and form an assembly. Their response? “It’s too hard!” For some time they have been going to large denominational churches and had found it very comfortable and easy. They could be absent—go fishing or hiking—and hardly be missed. The preacher was hired to preach and to lead the worship; that was his job. It left the men free from the need to be prepared to participate in the services. Yes, it was easy to be a part of the group. Little was required except to be faithful in giving so that the staff could be paid. But what does God want? What is the instruction and pattern of the New Testament? To follow the model of the early church does require commitment and enthusiastic participation. It requires New Testament Christians—people so committed they are willing to die for their faith. To those who are lazy and self-indulgent, “It’s too hard!” Shame on us if that is our attitude. What marked those early disciples? They were committed to meeting together regularly. “And they contin-

ued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in breaking of bread and prayers” (Acts 2:42). There was joy and enthusiasm as they met together, and a deep love for one another (Acts 2:44). There was zeal in evangelism; souls were being saved and added to the church daily. There was freedom for the Spirit to lead, and all were expected to come to the meetings with exercised hearts. “How is it then, brethren? Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification” (1 Cor. 14:26). While sign gifts and working of miracles passed with the death of the apostles, the edifying gifts remain in every age. If the Lord’s Supper is a ritual led by the priest or minister, it requires little preparation by the believers to participate. But if it is an open meeting, led by the Spirit of God, it requires spiritual preparation all week. How rich that time can be if hearts are all prepared and men stand up to lead in worship, filled with the Spirit. Yes, it is harder to function as a New Testament assembly than just to be part of a large, conventional church with a pastor. But we grow as we participate and it is a great stimulus to Bible study to have the opportunity to share the Word. And there is a richness to worship as various believers share their love for the Lord and appreciation of what He has done. There is liberty for the Spirit of God to speak to His people through various voices. Yes, it is harder, but it honors God and brings great blessing to His people.

“I love A SMALL ASSEMBLY:

this is the context where saints really grow. It’s in a small meeting more than anywhere else that the brothers and sisters become intimately involved in the Lord’s work. It’s so thrilling to see younger brothers take on the needs of the assembly like it’s their purpose for living. I get a real blessing watching them prepare a little something to share and then work up the nerve to present it, especially as we remember that they do this as unto the Lord. In a small gathering each person’s presence is more significantly felt and in a way that also applies to His presence. At least in a small setting we seem to cling to His promise more desperately… —Al Bulow, Minot, ND, in a recent email to the editor

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WINTER BIBLE CONFERENCES Eight weeks of edifying Bible ministry

If you are thinking about heading South this winter, why not join the Christians at Park of the Palms in Keystone Heights, Florida for a week of ministry and fellowship? Here is a list of the speakers that are scheduled:

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January 18–24 January 25–31 January 31–February 7 February 8–14 February 15–21 February 22–28 March 1–7 March 8–14

Michael Attwood (GA) Jamie Hull (CO) Kenneth Daughters (IA) Fred Hartman (VA) James Ayers (PA) Daniel Smith (IA) Alan Parks (SC) Peter Colon (FL)

Excellent conference accommodations are available as well as duplexes for retirees who are interested in buying a home. For more information: Park of the Palms 706 Palms Circle Keystone Heights, FL 32656-8016 Phone: 352-473-4926 E-mail pop@techcomm.net 112th ANNUAL CONFERENCE Curtis Gospel Chapel (17753 Lenore at Curtis, Detroit, MI) will hold its 112th Annual Conference, Lord willing, October 5–6. The invited speakers are William Burnett (ON) and James McKendrick (MI). Meetings on Saturday will be at 2:30 and 6:30 with dinner served at 5:00. On Sunday, the Lord’s Supper will be at 9:30 AM, gospel meeting at 11:00 and lunch at 12:00. The conference will conclude at 5:00 PM on Sunday. Gerald Fitzgerald 734-425-4217 SC LADIES MISSIONARY CONF. The 11th Annual South Carolina Ladies Missionary conference will be held at Bethany Bible Chapel in Conway, SC on October 5. The speakers will be Jenny Kosin and Joyce Young. The Kosins minister to

missionaries throughout the world and the Youngs are missionaries to Portugal. The conference will also include an urgently needed hands-on project for the foreign field. Come and enjoy a weekend at Myrtle Beach. For more information: Doris Rickert at 843-248-3488 MT. HERMON CONFERENCE The annual Pacific Coast Christian Conference will be held Oct. 7–11 at the Mt. Hermon Conference Center (75 miles south of San Francisco, CA, amid the redwoods in the Santa Cruz mountains). The conference begins with dinner Monday evening and ends Friday morning. Speakers: John Williams (BC) and James Cochrane (BC). Max Krieger 323-256-1992 maxnbethk@juno.com

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THE MAINE CONFERENCE Spring Hill Gospel Hall (Westbrook, ME) will host their conference Oct. 11–13 with speakers Don Cox (QC) and Dr. Boushra Mikhael (ON). The meeting times are Friday 7:30; Saturday 3:00 and 6:00; Sunday 10:30 (Lord’s Supper), 2:30 (ministry) and 6:00 (gospel). Contact: Daniel Chick at 207-854-4968 LAND OF THE SKY CONF. The saints of the Asheville Gospel Chapel and the Waynesville Christian Fellowship will host the annual Landof-the-Sky Bible Conference on October 19 from 10:00 am to 3:30 pm. The expected speaker is Bill Gustafson (SC). At noon a light lunch will be served in the chapel facilities in Asheville, NC. 2 0 0 2

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OTTAWA MISSIONARY CONF. The Ottawa Valley Missionary Conference is scheduled for Saturday November 2, 9:00 AM—4:00 PM. The expanded format this year includes lunch (not breakfast), mission reports from eight or more active missionaries, panel discussion, electives and keynote speaker Richard Haverkamp. Nursery and children’s program. Confirmed missionaries include: Mike and Janet Adkins (Kenya) Ray Barham (Zambia), Garnet and Gwen Cooney (Ireland), Luke Dejager (Papua New Guinea), Richard Haverkamp (Belgium), Sean and Vera O’Byrne (Guatemala), Ken and Eunice Russell (Uruguay), Lucho and Lorna Velez (Bolivia), Jonathan Ward (France). Electives include: Ray Barham, Bill Yuille from MSC, Greg Croal speaking about Islam. For further information, contact: Adam Milling at 613-224-9788 amilling@alumni.uwaterloo.ca or Bob Beckwith at 613-731-2381 beckwith@achilles.net

STUDIES IN JOHN Monthly Bible Studies on the Gospel of John will be held at Hopedale Bible Chapel (342 Sherin Dr., Oakville) 9:00 until noon. Below is a list of dates, speakers and topics: Oct.. 19: Wm Yuille Christ: Son and Servant Nov. 16: Harry Graham Metaphors of Christ in John Dec. 14: Wm. Burnett Signs in John Jan. 18: Brian Gunning Discourses in John Feb. 15: Randy Amos Upper Room Ministry March 15: Jim Paul Crucifixion Scenes April 12: Ernie Sarlo Post-Resurrection Appearances For more information, contact: W. H. Burnett at 905-634-6345 wh.burnett@sympatico.ca 35th MISSIONARY CONF. A warm invitation is extended to attend the 35th annual Women’s Missionary Conference at Park of the Palms in Keystone Heights, FL on Friday, October 25 and Saturday, Oct. 26. Expected speakers are: Esther Frey (Puerto Rico), Ramona Marquez (Paraguay) and Marcia VanderLaan (Colombia). Park of the Palms 352-473-4926 pop@techcomm.net

NY MISSIONARY CONF. The Metropolitan Missionary Conference will be held at Good Tidings Gospel Chapel (Brooklyn NY) Saturday, November 2 at 10:00. The speakers are Mark Kolchin (NJ) and Arkles Brooks Jr.. (MI) Jim McCall at 718-994-1318 Jimannabel@aol.com

E. TULSA CONFERENCE The believers of East Tulsa Bible Chapel are planning a conference this fall, Lord willing, with Arnot McIntee (ON) speaking. The conference begins on Saturday, Oct. 26, at 2:00 PM and concludes around 3:00 PM on Sunday, Oct. 27. There will be a prayer meeting on Friday night for those able to attend. Dan Moffitt at 918-744-6484 danmoffitt@juno.com

FATHER/SON RETREAT The annual father/son retreat will be held at Camp Iroquoina (Hallstead, PA) on Nov. 8–10. Jim VanDuzer will be the speaker. The numbers are continually growing and another large group is expected to be rambling around the hills and valleys of the camp for this special retreat. Jim Sushereba 570-967-2577 camp_iroquoina@juno.com L

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AUTUMN in LOUISIANA Southside Bible Chapel (4256 West Congress St. Lafayette, LA) announces their Autumn Bible Conference to be held on November 9 and 10. The speaker expected is Dr. Rob Lindsted (KS). The opening session will begin Saturday afternoon, and conclude on Sunday at 12:00. Lunch will be served. The meetings will be held at the chapel. Bill Walker at 337-232-6577 wowalker@bellsouth.net TAVISTOCK AREA CONF. Christians in the Southern Ontario area are warmly invited to the Tavistock Area Conference on Biblical Church Principles on November 16 from 9:30 to 4:30. Alan Parks (SC) has been invited to speak on the Man’s Role and Responsibility in the Home and Local Assembly. Dr. Boushra Mikhael (ON) will address Headship and the Head Covering. Paul Booker at 905-684-3748 FALL CONF. in LAWRENCE The Lawrence Bible Chapel will hold its fall conference on November 16 and 17, Lord willing. The conference will begin at 2:00 pm Saturday and end at 2:30 Sunday. The speaker will be William MacDonald (CA). High school, college, and young adults will meet with Mr. MacDonald on Friday evening (Nov. 15). John Scollon 785-841-5271 MISSIONARY BREAKFAST Christians gathered at Hillside Bible Chapel in Orillia, Ontario invite you to our Missionary Breakfast on Saturday, November 16th, starting at 8:00 AM. Speakers are expected from Europe, Africa and North America. For further information or requests for hospitality contact us at 705-3269572 or hillside@bconnex.net

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WORD ALIVE WEEKENDS in WINNIPEG Several assemblies in the Winnipeg, MB area are again hosting the following ministry-intensive weekends including a Youth Rally on Friday evening, an all-day seminar on Saturday and, along with the host assembly’s regular Sunday morning meetings, an inter-assembly gospel meeting on Sunday evening: Nov 22–24, 2002 January 24–26, 2003 February 28–March 2, 2003 March 28–30, 2003

Chris Schroeder, MI Rob Lindsted, KS James McCarthy, CA Michael Attwood, GA

If you are from out of town and would like to attend one or all of these weekends, please contact Ron Hampton for accommodation and information at 204-669-6026 or send an email to hampton@mts.net

CHANGE OF ADDRESS Milo and Gladys VandeKrol 1510 Pinnacle Place Waterloo, IA 50701 Phone: 319-234-4464 E-mail: milovk@forbin.net NEW ASSEMBLY LOCATION Please note the new address for the assembly in Indianapolis: Bethany Christian Fellowship (formerly Bethany Bible Chapel) 11850 Brookville Rd. Indianapolis, IN Contact: Brent Logan at 317-259-9252 Brent_Logan@aul.com COMMENDATIONS Gord and Karen Brock The Christians gathered at Stone Ridge Bible Chapel (Hamilton, ON) are pleased to commend Gord and Karen Brock (Jarred, Ruthann, Benjamin) to the Lord’s work on a

full time basis. They will be involved in teaching, evangelism, discipling and youth work. Israel and Erica Chavez The believers who meet at Shannon Hills Bible Chapel have informed us that they have recently commended Israel and Erica Chavez to the Lord’s grace for a variety of areas of service as He leads, but primarily among young people, both in the community and the assembly. Dr. Ruth Watkins After many faithful years of service in the Dominican Republic, for health reasons, Dr. Watkins has returned to Grand Rapids, MI. It is with much joy that the elders and assembly of Northwest Gospel Hall commend Ruth Watkins to the work with the Spanish-speaking people in Grand Rapids, MI at Asemblea Evangelica, under the guidance of their elders.

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UNIVERSITY FELLOWSHIP This fall another outreach to Iowa State University students and other college and career young people in the Ames, Iowa area is planned. We meet at our house at 6:30 Sunday evenings for food (we provide the meal), Bible study and fellowship. It is over by 8:00 so students can get back to studying. Last year we had around twenty people. We can give them a ride to our house on Sunday evenings or transport anyone who needs a ride to Countryside Bible Chapel on Sunday mornings. If you know of anyone who might be interested, have them contact us. Bill or Carol Moore 515-232-1167 wjmclm127@yahoo.com SERVICE OPPORTUNITY West Woods Christian Academy West Woods Christian Academy in Hamden, CT is seeking a Headmaster for the K-12, 150-student school. Established in 1975 as a ministry of West Woods Bible Chapel, it now serves families from all the surrounding towns and numerous Bible believing churches. The applicant must be mature in his relationship with the Lord and have a Masters degree in Christian School Administration. Teaching and Administrative experience is desired. The applicant must be able to oversee and inspire the spiritual climate and pulse of the school and promote fidelity to the school’s Christian philosophy of education. Candidates interested in serving the Lord in this capacity should send a resume to the school board at: West Woods Christian Academy 2105 State St. Hamden, CT 06517 Fax: 203-786-4730 Phone: 203-562-9922 2 0 0 2

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UN Discrimination Treaty The cultural war rages on in Washington.

The US Senate Foreign Relations Committee has approved an international treaty that critics charge could remove all restrictions on abortion, among other things. The committee voted 12-7 in favor of the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). The full Senate may vote on the treaty as early as September. The UN compliance committee, citing this treaty, have advocated legalizing prostitution in China, criticized the reintroduction of Mother’s Day in Belarus (because it reinforced sexual stereotypes), and censured Croatia for allowing some hospitals to refrain from abortions because of the conscientious objections of doctors. The European Parliament also cited CEDAW as the basis of its assertion that there is an “international legal framework” for all countries to recognize abortion as a “fundamental right.” Leaders of 10 pro-family organizations have stated, in a request to President Bush, that they support civil rights for women, but want the US to reject CEDAW. Richard Land, president of the Southern Baptist Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission, states, “CEDAW is ideological toxic waste,” designed to foist radical feminism worldwide.

JESUS VIDEO GIVEN to EVERY HOME in SOUTH CAROLINA All 1,773,038 homes in South Carolina received a “Jesus” video in the mail as a gift during the week of September 11. The 83-minute video was filmed in the Holy Land and is based on the Book of Luke. It is the most translated and widely shown film in history. More than five billion

have seen it worldwide. This special edition includes an introduction by Christian New York firefighters who served at “ground zero” after the World Trade Center disaster. —MCJ 25th ANNIVERSARY for FOF Colorado Springs based Focus on the Family is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the ministry. But

ERS MEMB r man H C R U e ion G AN CH GERM e 26.8 mill ass regularOf th .6% attend M hurches, cs, 16 stant c Catholi ne Prote bers attend li in a m m e ly. In th the 26.6 me vangelicals E f o g n o % and Am 4.2 odists rvices. e h t s e ly M k s, rch wee Baptist 0% attend chu s a h c 8 (su p to stals) u s go Penteco k. German tal e e n w o li y r il e ev ll, 6.1 m of the to All in a Sunday (7.4% ore poph on till m to churc ). Worship is s n o populati occer. gency News A ns l a a c th li r e la g u —Evan

James Dobson, founder and president, is quick to give the Lord the glory. With “God’s Faithfulness” as the theme, he says, “As we reflect on our journey thus far, we are reminded time and time again of how marvelous His blessing has been…we can clearly see that the loving hands of our heavenly Father have sustained us every step of the way.” —BP

NEW HO USE for th e BURNH A new ho AMS me is und er Rose Hill, KS for Gra construction in cia Burnh her childre am and n Jeff, Za ch and M woman do indy. A nated the lot w nally owne d by Martin hich was origiBurnham’s father. M any skille grandd contrac donated th tors have eir labor a nd 90% of and suppli the funds es have be e n provided Gracia is . working o about her n a book hostage ex telling perience w hopes to h hich she ave comple ted by Dec The senior ember. Burnhams, desire to P a u l a n d Oreta, return to the Philip November. pines in —NTM

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News from the Gaspé A missionfield just around the corner.

When people think of the mission field, usually their mind goes overseas. But sometimes Ile d’Anticosti you can look in your own backyard and find real needs right there. The province of Québec Ste. Anne-Des-Monts Gulf of Cloridorme S t . L aw r e n c e is a prime example as it still has GASPÉ a great need for gospel outQ U É B E C PENNINSULA reach—in particular, some of Mont-Joli New Carlisle the remote areas along the St. New Richmond Lawrence River in the Gaspé Rimouski PRINCE Peninsula and along the northEDWARD ISLAND ern coast towards Labrador. Charlottetown Cabano NEW There is little, if any, evangeliRivière-du-Loup BRUNSWICK cal work north of Sept Illes. In the past there were Québec NOVA SCOTIA City Christians from the South Shore Fredericton St John (Montréal area) who would MAINE, Halifax leave the bigger cities and travUSA f el to these remote areas doing o y ay n d pioneer evangelistic work. The B u F result of their work is evident by a few assemblies scattered along the St. Lawrence coast. They continue to be a testimony for the Lord. Some brothers have been A T L A N T I C exercised to visit these assemO C E A N blies to help and encourage the Christians in these meetings and to reach out to the local people. They use a variety of pal camp ground for two weeks each summer. There is methods to share the gospel with the people. one week for children’s camp and one week for family Everything from door-to-door, one-on-one contacts, camp. The camp over the years has gained the confiand radio broadcasts to “Breakfasts of Hope” are used. dence of the local people and has provided opportuniThe Breakfast of Hope allows believers to invite the ties for outreach since many of the children are not unsaved to a local restaurant for a free breakfast. from Christian homes. Following the breakfast, someone sings the gospel and One of the difficulties is the employment situation someone else shares a testimony about how they came in the area. The majority of the young people leave the to the Lord. This practice is becoming quite common in area after they graduate from high school either to furQuébec and has been used to bring souls to the Lord. ther their studies or to find work. Even more painful is Another method used for outreach is camp work. when an entire family moves to a larger center to find The assemblies in Ste. Anne Des Monts and work. This can seriously impact some of the smaller Cloredorme conduct Camp Joie de Vivre at a municiassemblies. w w w . u p l o o k . o r g

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The north side of the Gaspé Peninsula is inhabited by all French-speaking people. There is ongoing work among these meetings. The most recent is in Rimouski where two couples and a student have begun to meet. The south side of the Gaspé is mixed French and English. The gospel came to the English in the late nineteenth century and a number of new assemblies were established along the Baie des Chaleurs. Today only two of those remain—one in New Richmond and the other in New Carlisle. In both of these assemblies most of the people are retired. There is an urgent need to reach out to a new generation to prevent these closing as well. Different brothers from the Maritimes and Ontario visit to help with the work. Another brother from PEI has moved into the area near the New Carlisle assembly to help there. They also have a camp that they run in the summer for young people. The English people in both assemblies have had a desire to reach out to the French in their communities. The Lord has provided an answer to this by preparing a French Canadian, Danny DuGas, who is married to

an English lady. He has been burdened for his own countrymen and started a Bible study with several people. As a result of the Bible study, some of the local French people have come to know the Lord as their Saviour. So the assembly in New Richmond has become bilingual. It is a pleasant site to see French and English brothers greeting one another with a kiss, a custom common among the French. The new French believers are growing and reaching out to their own families and friends. They have a real desire to grow and benefit from the experience of the English Christians. Many of them now participate in the Breaking of Bread which is bilingual with translation for both languages. The ministry meetings are held separately, although in the same building. Their desire is to strengthen the testimonies already established and to reach out with the gospel to more of the small communities. The Catholic church dominates the French people and Protestantism the English. The task is great and there are many opportunities, but the Lord has promised to be with us to the end. Thank you for adding this area to your prayers.

wo couples from a town in Marsoui began to read the New Testament on their own. As they read, they saw that Jesus had died for their sins personally on the cross of Calvary. This news showed them their need and they put their trust in the Lord Jesus as their Saviour. As they read on, they also saw their need for baptism, so they baptized each other. They continued to discover New Testament principles, as the Holy Spirit taught them about the Church and its order. Photo: © Dan Spoelstra The Word soon began to probe and it revealed that some of their habits were contrary to Scripture and must be forsaken. One couple chose to pursue their own way. The other couple was approached by people from the Watchtower Society, but they quickly saw that the Watchtower did not match what they saw in the New Testament. Next they were approached by some charismatics, however they were not comfortable with some of the practices that they saw there, either. They sought the Lord’s face as to where they should fellowship. Finally the Christians from the assembly at Ste. Anne-DesMonts came knocking at the door. The Lord led them to join with these Christians and they have been in fellowship for many years now. The Lord’s promise is true: “If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God….” (Jn. 7:17).

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The Art of Visitation It’s the tactic the two fastest growing cults use. It can be effective.

In our increasingly busy world, visitation is becoming a forgotten ministry. Why is it so important? 1. We visit because of the scriptural principles involved. Both the teaching of the New Testament and the examples of the early Christians show the importance of going “house to house” (Acts 20:20). Note the emphasis of “Go” in the ministry of the Lord Jesus (Mt. 28:19; Mk. 1:38; 5:19; 16:15). Also they “went” in the book of Acts (8:4; etc.). 2. Because the normal Christian has a concern for others. Visiting is an outlet for showing concern. 3. It is a God-given responsibility. Those who are part of the local fellowship are our special responsibility. Others by a period of regular attendance have shown interest; these have been entrusted to us. And the community around us needs to meet our Saviour. Be assured of the importance of what you are doing! Those outside of Christ are lost (Lk. 19:10). Many have never heard the gospel adequately (Rom. 10:14). We have been commissioned to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature (Mk. 16:15). While contacting every individual is impossible, we must reach as many as we can (Rom. 1:14-15).

fellowship with the believers in the local church. Unitedly we can encourage one another (“provoke one another to love and good works,” Heb. 10:24), and train one another in this. Also we can do it in an orderly way without omission or duplication. This will enable consecrated prayer for such an endeavor. Suggestion: to encourage regularity, set aside one evening for this ministry. A list with suggested names should be posted. By signing your name after the name of the one visited, you will let others know of the visit. Names not on the list can be added. HOW TO VISIT The “know how” of the ministry of visiting begins with our relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ—unhindered communion with Him will permit us to be useable and sensitive to His leading. We can also learn from the experience of others. This would include: a. Be clear as to our motive in visiting. We are visiting a home to let them know we are interested in them, to be a friend. We also want to give them an opportunity to indicate any need (spiritual questions, etc.). We are not there to scold them for not attending services or to deliver a pat sermon. b. Show a sincere interest in them and their family. Give them an opportunity to tell some of their life. (Don’t spend all the time talking about yours.) Be a good listener. Avoid monopolizing the conversation; your visit will be more appreciated and more useful. c. Let them know that there is a welcome for them at the assembly. Most people appreciate being wanted. This is better than an unfavorable remark about their going elsewhere, or not attending anywhere.

WHO AND WHEN WE VISIT There is no doubt that the Holy Spirit leads every child of God at certain times to go and speak with someone regarding their spiritual need. In such cases our directives as to the person and time of visit have been clear, as we felt the leading of the Lord. We should follow such promptings, with His enabling. However, this need not preclude a united effort in w w w . u p l o o k . o r g

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d. You may feel inadequate in bringing up spiritual problems. This might be just as well for now. Walking with the Lord and experience in visiting will prepare you for this. To know that you are their friend is very important—it holds real future possibilities. If they insist on bringing up spiritual problems you feel you cannot handle, ask them if they mind if you bring along someone from the assembly that can help them. e. If they confide in you any information that is not public knowledge, don’t tell anyone. No one appreciates someone that betrays their confidence. f. It is easy to stay too long. It is better to stay on the safe side with a short but unhurried visit.

When the person answers the door, tell them who you are and your purpose in visiting—to give them something (an offer of a home Bible study; a Seed Sower text; a Gospel of John; an Emmaus course; etc.). Tell them about the various outreach activities of the assembly and invite them to any special event. If possible, engage them in conversation. If you are on a gospel team that is visiting the area, you might tell them how you are enjoying your stay in their vicinity. You should try to find topics of general interest that will put both of you at ease. Then, as the Lord leads, direct the conversation to spiritual issues. A study of John 4 will show how the Great Soul Winner did this when He was talking to the woman at the well. Be prepared to answer their possible questions. There are some commonly asked questions which you should prepare an answer for in advance. What denomination are you? Are you Jehovah’s Witnesses? Why are you doing this? Are you paid? If an argument is brewing, the best thing to do is to leave graciously. It is doubtful that any good would come of an argument (see 2 Tim. 2:24). If they show a spiritual interest, be sure to get their name and address, so another visit can be made. And remember to pray specifically for them. God will give the increase.

MAKING EVANGELISTIC CALLS Courtesy and friendliness will pay dividends. Almost everyone will respond to a smile. Even if you are met by a lack of friendliness, be friendly anyway— it is a good testimony. But make a bold approach (2 Tim. 1:7). There is no need to be ashamed (Rom. 1:16), for you are not representing yourself with all your failings, or a church made up of failing people. You are delivering a gospel that works, and a trustworthy Saviour. There is no cause to be afraid; nearly everybody will treat you courteously. They can only refuse the literature, at the worst (read carefully Acts 5:41).

“THE WEATHER

all week had been bad. Even though the amount of rain we were receiving wasn’t anything close to the record amounts of central Europe, still we were concerned. Was it because the flood waters were rising in our area? No. It was because we had scheduled an open-air gospel outreach in the city square for Saturday night. So we made it a priority prayer item during our weekly prayer meeting and asked the Lord to hold off the rain on Saturday. What happened next? Saturday came and it was partly cloudy during most of the day, but no rain. Around 7:00 that evening we started the open-air meeting with songs, and then came public testimonies and some preaching using the sketch board. This lasted for about an hour, and at 8:00 we began showing the “Jesus” film using a large screen that was set up in the city square. It was a marvelous time as around 300 people showed up for the gospel preaching and for the film. Eventually the film ended, the crowd dispersed, and we were gathering up the equipment. Just as we were putting the final piece of equipment into the van, we felt a few drops of rain. After a couple of seconds, a large roar of thunder. After a few more seconds, a large hail storm erupted. We all ran toward the vehicles, jumped in, and could hardly hear ourselves talk because of the pounding from the hail. What were we talking about? God’s faithfulness! Every believer was talking at the same time, each declaring that God was so very faithful to us in that He held off the rain until we were completely finished with our evangelism outreach. You should have been at the Lord’s Supper the next day as the central theme was the faithfulness of Christ. It was a beautiful weekend to say the least.” —in an email from George Sturm, Pogradez, Albania

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Survey of Religious Beliefs One way that door-to-door work is done in Ireland.

When we arrived in Kilkenny in the Republic of Ireland in February of 1998, we were delighted to find that the assembly was actively involved in door-to-door outreach. However, I felt very inadequate as we approached a door and tried to explain our purpose in visiting. I remembered using a survey some years previously when I had taken a course on personal evangelism, and wondered if this might be a useful approach here. I asked several people about surveys that they were using but didn’t feel comfortable with any of them, so we ended up developing our own.

Our current survey is as follows: 1. Is there a God? Yes

Don’t know

2. Do you believe that the Bible is true? Yes No Don’t know Other _________________ 3. Where did you get your beliefs? Parents Church Bible Other ______________________ 4. How often do you read the Bible? Regularly Occasionally

Never

5. How often do you pray? Regularly Occasionally

Never

6. Who do you most often pray to? God Jesus Mary Other ______________________

This survey was developed and refined over a period of time. Originally there were eight questions, but we ended up adding a ninth. The first eight are multiple choice and can be asked very quickly. The final question is intentionally open ended and provides an opportunity to present the gospel if there appears to be an interest. Roman Catholicism is the dominant religion in Ireland and so the survey is slanted with that in mind. You may need to develop something better suited to the region where you are. Remember that the survey is merely a tool to open an opportunity to share the gospel with people. It is a tool that has worked in Ireland, but may not work where you are. But be willing to be creative in looking for ways to open opportunities for sharing the gospel. Some people can very easily turn any conversation to spiritual things. But for people (like me) who find that difficult, this may be a help to you. Since we have now conducted this survey in Kilkenny for several years, we are looking into developing another survey that will help us engage people in conversation.

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7. Do you believe in life after death (heaven and hell)? Yes No Don’t know 8. Do you believe that you will go to heaven? Yes No Hopefully Don’t know 9. What are you depending on to get into heaven?

Asking questions is an effective way of determining where people are spiritually and making sure that the presentation of the gospel is suited to their needs. Someone has said that questions are like a “meatprobe,” checking to see if people “are ready.” Try and put people at ease by smiling and being friendly. We have found that while you are asking the questions you can develop a little rapport with people, so that they •

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feel more open to hearing you when you get to the end. But of course, you must be a good listener as well. Another advantage of using a survey or questionnaire is that it gets people thinking for themselves. This appears to be why the Lord so often asked questions or even answered a question with a question. It made people evaluate their own assumptions. Many people have adopted their beliefs gradually or piece-by-piece which means that there is often an inconsistency in what they believe. If we can gently point out to them the problems in their belief system, we can then point them to the consistency there is in the gospel. This survey has been used in the Republic of Ireland as well as in Northern Ireland both door-to-door and with individuals on the street in towns. When used in towns, we have found that it is best to look for someone who is sitting around or standing waiting. If you try and stop someone who is walking, they will probably rebuff you. It is important when you are seeking to share the gospel that you put yourself in the other person’s shoes

and try and understand where they are coming from. If a young mother comes to the door with a crying baby on her hip and smoke billowing from the kitchen, it is probably not a good time to talk. Make sure that you have appropriate literature to leave with people that will try to answer some of the common issues that are raised. In Ireland we have found that most people hope they will get to heaven because they are good people who have not harmed others, by a leading a good life, etc. We have written several tracts that try to deal with these questions such as Heaven: Can My Good Works Get Me There?; Why Did Jesus Die?; Does It Matter What I Believe? We do find that the questions of evil and suffering, the existence of God, and the reliability of Scripture arise regularly and these need to be addressed in a concise way also. But again, the advantage of asking people questions is that we find out what they are thinking and seek to provide answers that will satisfy their hearts and their minds.

OSAKA OUTREACH

The Izumi Assembly near Osaka, Japan held special gospel meetings September 13–16 and was most encouraged by the 210 unsaved people who attended the meetings over those four days! During the summer, the Christians in the assembly had 80,000 special invitations printed and they personally distributed each one to the homes in their city. Every day some of the believers—often young mothers and housewives—would spend time passing out the tracts. Posters announced the meetings in train stations around the city. Individuals worked hard to invite unsaved family members and co-workers. And they prayed. They knew if anyone came to hear the Word of God, it would be through the working of the Holy Spirit. Japan is not receptive to the gospel: it does not fit with their traditions. Because of cult activity (like Omu which was responsible for the sarin gas attack on the subway system) they are afraid of religion. Men, in particular, are consumed with succeeding in business and it is very rare for them to attend an outreach. The Christians used methods that would be most accepted in their culture. In addition to the regular meetings, they served snacks and engaged in informal one-on-one evangelism. No one has professed salvation yet, but some have shown an interest in the Bible, and others came to realize for the first time that God exists. As one Japanese brother wrote, “It may be slowly, but firmly the gospel is spreading out in Japan.”

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The Timothy Conference Toronto, Ontario

December 29, 2002 to January 1, 2003

Contact us to receive a brochure with detailed conference and seminar information: The Timothy Conference 22 Noble Drive, Ajax, Ontario L1Z 1B6 Canada E-mail: ruthbell@on.aibn.com Fax: 905-426-5447 Phone: 905-426-5449 or visit www.cre8iveminds.ca/timothy

We are looking forward to a wonderful time of spiritually edifying ministry, seminars that will equip you in your practical Christian living and opportunities for encouraging fellowship with brothers and sisters in the Lord. We warmly welcome you to join us and trust that this conference will be used of the Lord to exactly meet the need of your heart. With convenient dates over the New Year holiday and prices that are affordable, (especially for our American friends) why not start planning now to attend? Register soon as space is limited!

HALLMARKS of D E S I G N E D U N I T Y

F E L L O W S H I P

A U T O N O M Y

G O V E R N M E N T

The REALITY of the ONE BODY based on PRESENT LIFE and GROWING LIGHT

CHRIST the GATHERING CENTER and COMMUNITY with likeminded SAINTS

The PRACTICAL HEADSHIP of CHRIST and LINKS with other LOCAL CHURCHES

The PLURALITY of SPIRITUAL ELDERS under the CHIEF SHEPHERD

“Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling” (Eph. 4:3-4).

“I will build My church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Mt. 16:18).

“…I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia…And being turned, I saw seven golden [lampstands]; And in the midst of the seven [lampstands] one like unto the Son of man… and the seven [lampstands] which thou sawest are the seven churches” (Rev. 1:1020).

“The elders which are among you I exhort,…Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory….” (1 Pet. 5:1-4).

“Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ” (Eph. 4:13).

“For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them” (Mt. 18:20). “…thou hast a little strength, and hast kept My word, and hast not denied My name.” (Rev. 3:8).

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Stressing UNITY without UNANIMITY; DIVERSITY without DIVISION

Stresses ORDER based on RELATIONSHIP and HARMONY based on FELLOWSHIP

Stresses TESTIMONIES SHINING for CHRIST and ACCOUNTABLE to CHRIST

Stresses LOYALTY to the GOOD SHEPHERD and TOTAL DEPENDENCE on HIM

“…Grow up into Him in all things, who is the head, even Christ: from whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love” (Eph. 4:15-16).

“Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren; the elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity” (1 Tim. 5:1-2).

“…I know thy works, and thy labor, and thy patience… Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent…or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent” (Rev. 2:2-5).

“Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers…” (Acts 20:28).

“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father…of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named” (Eph. 3:14-15). P

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“…Other sheep I have, which are not of this fold… and they shall hear My voice; and there shall be one flock, and one shepherd” (Jn. 10:15-16).

the ASSEMBLY B E

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G I F T S

P R I E S T H O O D

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The SPIRIT’S PRESIDENCY and SCRIPTURE’S FINAL APPEAL

EQUIPPING by the HOLY SPIRIT and the PERFECTING of the SAINTS

The POSITION and PRIVILEGE of EVERY BELIEVER without DISTINCTION

The TWO-FOLD REQUEST of CHRIST in IDENTIFICATION with HIM

“I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever; even the Spirit of truth…These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. But the Comforter… whom the Father will send in My name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you” (Jn. 14:16-26).

“Unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he… gave gifts unto men…And He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints for the work of the ministry for the edifying of the body of Christ” (Eph. 4:7-12).

“Ye also, as lively [living] stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ…But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises [virtues] of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvellous light” (1 Pet. 2:5, 9).

“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world [age]” (Mt. 28:19-20).

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“And He…gave unto them, saying,…this do in remembrance of Me” (Lk. 22:19).

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Stresses the STRENGTH that is found in CHURCH TRUTH and the BEAUTY of LIFTING it UP

Stresses its POTENTIAL for GROWTH and its FRAGRANCE and FRUITFULNESS

Stresses its CAREFULLY PLANNED CONSTRUCTION and HOLINESS

Stresses its DEVOTION and the EXPECTATION of the COMING MARRIAGE to the BRIDEGROOM

“…behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth…great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory” (1 Tim. 3:15-16).

“For we are laborers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry [a cultivated field]” (1 Cor. 3:9).

“Now therefore ye are… built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner stone; 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. 2:19-22).

“For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ” (2 Cor. 11:2).

“For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet [appropriate] for those by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God” (Heb. 6:7).

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Registrations are coming in, but there is still room for you! You are heartily invited to attend Rise Up West 2002. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Contact us for an information package Conference Telephone Line: 250-395-4230 Conference FAX Line: 250-395-2960 E-mail: riseupwest@shaw.ca Website: www.riseupwest.com Mail: PO Box 75528, 3034 Edgemont Blvd. North Vancouver, BC V7R 4X1

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Be Prepared for Giving Maintaining the work of God.

way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift” (Mt. 5:23-24). 2. The motive must be right. “Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do…that they may have glory of men…But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly” (Mt. 6:2-4). 3. There must be due recognition and discharge of family obligations: “Moses said, Honor thy father and thy mother…But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or his mother, That wherewith thou mightest have been profited by me is Corban, that is to say, Given to God; ye no longer suffer him to do aught for his father or his mother; making void the word of God by your tradition….” (Mk. 7:10-13, RV). 4. The gift must be impelled by love. An example of this is found in the offering of the penitent sinner in Simon’s house. “She loved much,” is our Lord’s testimony (Lk. 7:47). 5. The measure of the gift will be the degree of its acceptability. But the gift will be measured, not by its own intrinsic value but by what is left when it is given. “And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were rich cast in much. And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing. And He called unto Him His disciples, and saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury: for all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living” (Mk. 12:41-44). Jesus still sits “over against the treasury.” In this poor widow’s gift we have an example of the kind of giving God loves to accept; giving to the point of

The question of finance is, admittedly, a delicate one and, for this reason, few seem free to speak about it. Yet the Scriptures have much to say on the subject and no trace of embarrassment can be detected in the writers who handle it. THE TEACHING OF CHRIST

All that Moses taught about giving was confirmed by the Lord Jesus, as indeed it would be, for Moses was but the spokesman of God. “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill” (Mt. 5:17). In the particular matter of tithing, however, He seeks to bring back to a sense of proportion some who were very punctilious in this thing, but completely lacking in “weightier matters.” “Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone” (Mt. 23:23). “These” refers to the “weightier matters” but “the other” to tithing which, says the Lord Jesus, must not be left undone. Here then is Christ’s authority for saying that tithing is obligatory. He does not specifically refer to the fact that the firstborn and the firstfruits are the Lord’s, but rather points to the true response of the redeemed heart: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness” (Mt. 6:33). He also has pertinent things to say about giving, stressing not so much the fact and privilege of giving as the conditions under which it is acceptable to God. 1. The life must be right if the gift is to be acceptable. “Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee, leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy w w w . u p l o o k . o r g

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extreme self-sacrifice. But the supreme example of all is found in the Lord Jesus Christ Himself: “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth His life for the sheep” (Jn. 10:11). As I pass on to the teaching of the apostles, let me do so by quoting His words of exhortation and encouragement: “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again” (Lk. 6:38). THE TEACHING OF THE APOSTLES Every matter of vital importance for the child of God is dealt with exhaustively at least once in the Scriptures, often more than once. The subject of Christian giving is thoroughly treated by the apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 8 and 9. We commend those chapters to the careful and prayerful study of the reader, but let us notice certain obvious principles. The essential and primary thing in all Christian giving is the recognition that we are not our own (1 Cor. 6:19). Hence the exhortation to the Romans: “Present your bodies a living sacrifice” (12:1), and the practice of this by the Macedonian churches who “first gave their own selves to the Lord” (2 Cor. 8:5). If there is a clear understanding of that at the beginning, it will become equally clear that what we call our own is actually the Lord’s and the most scrupulous care must be taken in the use of it. We will weigh up before Him the matter of our stewardship and settle in our minds what He would have us expend on ourselves and what should be done with the rest. Let us notice the principles in 2 Corinthians 8 and 9 which regulate Christian giving. I take the principles in the order in which they appear in these chapters, and the first of these is the principle of the open hand (8:2), where we read of “their liberality.” The apostle comes back to this again before he closes the subject of giving, and as he begins, so he ends on the note of open-handedness in Christian giving: “He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully” (2 Cor. 9:6); “Being enriched in everything to all

bountifulness…” (9:11); and “your liberal distribution” (v. 13). The supreme example of liberal giving, the unanswerable argument for it, and the incentive to it, is in the Lord Jesus Christ Himself: “For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich” (8:9). “Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift” (9:15). Let us also note carefully that liberality is not a grace limited to the rich who can afford to be liberal; the very soil in which it flourishes here is “deep poverty.” “Moreover, brethren, we [want you to know] of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; how that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality” (8:1-2). How often in Christian experience do we see this very thing. The second is the principle of the willing mind. “For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing…” (v. 3); “…a readiness to will…” (v. 11); “For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not” (v. 12); “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver” (9:7). This brings us to the third, the principle of the cheerful heart. Those who give liberally and willingly will discover the joy of giving and the truth of the word, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). Then, as we give, let us do it cheerfully. In 1 Corinthians 16:1-3, three other principles are introduced. Giving should be with regularity: “Upon the first day of the week…” It should be done comprehensively: “…let every one of you lay by him in store…” And it should be done proportionately: “…as God hath prospered him…” (1 Cor. 16:2). Here, then, is a brief outline of some scriptures that address the very important subject of the grace of giving, for, said the Saviour, “He that is faithful in that which is least (speaking of money) is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much” (Lk. 16:10).

Were the whole realm of nature mine, That were an offering far too small; Love so amazing, so divine, Demands my soul, my life, my all.

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Preparation for the Lord’s Supper It is our supreme privilege on earth. Are we ready for it?

this is found in Hebrews 12:3, “Consider Him…,” that is, think on Him, bring thoughts concerning Him to mind. It is not only that such thoughts are good but that, with bathing the mind with thoughts of Christ, He Himself becomes the balm for the weary mind, putting it into a frame more conducive to worshipful occupation at the Lord’s Supper. This gives the capacity to be able to say to the cares and burdens of life, as did Abraham long ago to his servants, “Abide ye here…and I and the lad will go yonder and worship” (Gen. 22:5). There must be SPIRITUAL preparation, a careful apprehension of what we are engaged in at the Lord’s Supper. What is expected of us as holy priests is to offer up spiritual sacrifices to God. Like the meal offering, there should be preparation for this at home during the week. We also need a clear understanding of who is the object of our gathering; at most of our meetings we not only think about the Lord, we are there to minister to the needs of others— through prayer, ministry of the Word, or personal encouragement. But the Lord’s Supper is entirely focussed on the Lord. Who is this Personage we come to worship? He is not now “Jesus only.” A great deal has happened since that lonely Stranger walked the shores of Galilee. “God hath made that same Jesus…both Lord and Christ” (Acts 2:36). We remember Him at the time when He voluntarily took the lowest place, but we know He now occupies the highest. Daily communion at the Lord’s Table (described in 1 Cor. 10) is assumed in the life of each believer. The Supper should be considered the climax of our feasting throughout the week at the Table. The measure in which we enjoy the Lord and His provisions all week long will largely affect our responses at the Lord’s Supper on the first day of the week. A devoted attitude and reverent decorum is expected as we “enter the holiest by the blood of Jesus.” Like the sanctuary of old, it is still a fragrant place and a privileged place. Let us be prepared when we enter.

While it is true that worship is in the realm of the spirit, that does not mean that the body and soul are left behind. It only means that they are subservient to the spirit. Obviously there is the necessity of definite preparation of the whole person in view of engaging in this highest exercise of the human personality. There should be PHYSICAL preparation. We must be rested. Living in a society that is bent on pleasing self, it is little wonder that there is a constant call for self-indulgence. Late Saturday nights can rob the saint of freshness on the Lord’s Day morning. Long Sunday lie-ins can add rush and pressure to getting to the meeting on time, putting the mind into a state of excitement not conducive to high and worshipful thoughts. There is in this day of total demand a great need to control our involvements. The Lord recognized this need in the lives of His own: “And He said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going…” (Mk. 6:31). It has been pointed out that there is often a connection between busyness and barrenness. There must be MENTAL preparation. Today there is a concerted attack of the enemy on the minds of God’s people, for as a man thinks, “so is he” (Prov. 23:7). a) The worldly mind is not likely to give much to the Lord at His Supper. It is worldly because of a pre-occupation with the playthings, pastimes and pleasures of the world, and readily becomes defiled. The Holy Spirit is thus grieved and has no liberty to lead that soul into the Holiest for worship. b) The wandering mind will make it difficult to concentrate on holy things. Often the cause is lack of selfdiscipline. Brother Lawrence, in his Letters, said, “One way to recollect the mind in time of prayer, and preserve it more in tranquility, is not to let it wander too far at other times.” c) The weary mind is often burdened with the cares of this life and ready to faint. The blessed remedy for w w w . u p l o o k . o r g

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CARING FOR ONE ANOTHER “By love serve one another.” “Exhort (encourage) one another daily.”

Indeed there are many members, yet one body…But God composed the body…that there should be no schism in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another. And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. 1 Cor. 12:20, 25–26

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The Golden Chain

How sweet, how heavenly is the sight, When those who love the Lord In one another’s peace delight, And so fulfill His Word! When each can feel his brother’s sigh, And with him bear a part! When sorrow flows from eye to eye, And joy from heart to heart! When, free from envy, scorn, and pride, Our wishes all above, Each can his brother’s failings hide, And show a brother’s love. Let love in one delightful stream, Through every bosom flow, And union sweet, and dear esteem, In every action glow. Love is the golden chain that binds The happy souls above; And he’s an heir of heaven who finds His bosom glow with love. —Joseph Swain By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another. John 13:35

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Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another. Rom. 12:10 Slowly, surely, love melts icicles of opposition, wears down walls of indifference, opens long-closed doors into the hearts of others. How we need the gentle, warming, healing balm of love to mend broken families and to repair fractured friendships. —Donald H. Strong

As we mature spiritually, we exhibit a growing capacity to care for and appreciate one another in the body of Christ, regardless of our differences. —Joseph Stowell The true Christian labors in love, speaks the language of love, dips mercy with the ladle of love, yearns for the lost with lamentations of love, seeks the straying with the lantern of love, and draws men with the net of love. O C T O B E R

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TO DRINK OR NOT TO DRINK A Christian medical doctor gives his advice.

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pints of beer, containing two ounces of alcohol, a person’s reaction time is prolonged eleven times. The meaning of this is clear. A man thinks he can manage his car after a couple of beers, but if he is driving down the street and a child steps out from between parked cars, it takes eleven times longer than normal for him to put his foot on the brake and stop his car. The tragic result too often is that the child loses its life. Thus alcohol, while imparting a feeling of mastery over circumstances, actually impairs a person’s judgment and ability to react quickly in adverse situations. Auto fatalities: The New York State Department of Health in conjunction with Cornell University examined all fatal injuries due to auto accidents in New York City. It was found that alcohol was a contributing factor in ALCOHOL IS A DEPRESSANT 73% of all fatalities. A similar survey in nearby Westchester County discovered that it For a number of reasons alcohol is was the determining factor in 79% of a particularly insidious and deceptive “Wine is a all drivers killed in single-car crashes. substance. One is that it gives the user Similarly a study in Middlesex County, mocker, the impression that he has had a bit of a lift. He gets a feeling of well-being, strong drink NJ, disclosed that alcohol was involved 41.2% of all violent deaths in the mastery of the situation, power and is raging: and in county. In fact, “drunk driving is provadequacy. This is why a person who whosoever ing to be even deadlier than what we tends to feel inadequate, overburdened previously knew. The latest traffic death is deceived or overpowered by circumstances is statistics released this week by the prone to use alcohol in excess. He thereby National Highway Traffic Safety seeks to compensate with this narcotic is not wise.” Administration (NHTSA), using a new drug because of the apparent lift it Proverbs 20:1 method of calculation, show that gives him, a feeling of superiority, 17,448 people were killed last year in grandeur, an on-top-of-the-world outalcohol-related traffic crashes. This number represents look, and a measure of release being the major effects. nearly 800 more deaths than previously estimated. However, the moment alcohol is imbibed it goes for Sadly, it also represents an increase over the 17,380 peothe nervous system. It has a particular affinity for the ple killed in such crashes in the year 2000. Additional cells of the brain and immediately begins to exert a delestatistics show that more than half a million others are terious effect on them, and contrary to what a person injured in crashes involving alcohol” (MADD update). thinks and feels about himself, he is actually beginning to deteriorate in his performance. DANGERS GALORE Alcohol has no stimulating effect. Rather, the oppoSuicides: The eleventh leading cause of violent site is true. For example, it depresses reaction time, that deaths in the US is suicide. Throughout the fifty states is, the length of time it takes a person to do something it is estimated that alcohol is directly responsible in at about a situation that requires action. After one pint of least one-fourth of these. beer, which has only one ounce of alcohol, an individAddiction: Besides exerting such effects on mental ual’s reaction time is prolonged six times. After two Alcohol is a drug. In fact it is a narcotic drug and the only one that can be legally and freely purchased on the open market. All other narcotics must be obtained from a doctor by prescription. In turn, a record is kept of every prescription signed by a physician in order that the authorities can check to see just how much of these various drugs he prescribes for his patients. If a doctor is prescribing too much of a narcotic for a particular patient, he soon hears from the authorities. They want to know “why” and “what” the circumstances are. If a doctor has a good reason, fine, but if he doesn’t, then he is in trouble for misuse of narcotics. This, then, is the kind of hold placed on every narcotic substance—except alcohol.

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malities, mental impairment, and behavior problems. processes by depressing the activity of the brain, alcoScientists do not know exactly how much alcohol it hol also often leads to addiction, chemical dependence, takes to cause alcohol-related birth defects. on it. One out of every nine who commences the use of Broken homes: Alcohol is a potent factor in divorce alcohol ends up with a serious drinking problem or and poverty. Breadwinners, who should be supporting becomes an alcoholic. Total abstinence is the only way their families, often spend much of their wages on to be sure that you (or someone to whom you introduce strong drink once they have become hooked. Violence its use) will not be the one in nine who will wind up at in the home and spousal and child abuse is often linked the degraded end of the spectrum of alcohol users. to chemical use. Long-term drinking can cause many physical problems. For example: “do not THE SPIRITUAL DIMENSION • Alcohol-related liver disease. be drunk There is one final consideration. Paul More than 2 million Americans suffer with wine, speaks in strong terms about stumbling from alcohol-related liver disease. in which a weaker brother. There are people Some drinkers develop alcoholic hepatitis, or inflammation of the liver. is dissipation; who, because you take a drink, may feel that they too can take a drink Its symptoms include fever, jaundice, but be filled harmlessly. However they may be and abdominal pain. Alcoholic hepatiwith the among those who end up an alcohol tis can cause death. Spirit.” abuse statistic. This is one more reason • Cancer. Long-term heavy drinkto take a position of abstinence. ing increases the risk of developing Ephesians 5:18, NKJV After all, our Lord Jesus Christ came certain forms of cancer, especially “that [we] might have life, and that cancer of the esophagus, mouth, [we] might have it more abundantly” (Jn. 10:10). All throat, and voice box. Women are at slightly increased that we need in order to enjoy this life is found in Him. risk of developing breast cancer if they drink two or If we are finding our sufficiency in Him, we don’t need more drinks per day. these ancillary things. And how can those of us whose Danger to the unborn: Alcohol can cause a range of bodies are the temples of the Holy Spirit of God subbirth defects, the most serious being fetal alcohol ject them to an influence which from the very beginsyndrome (FAS). Children born with alcohol-related ning is degrading, and which may in time lead to birth defects can have lifelong learning and behavior spiritual shipwreck? —Charles Taylor problems. Those born with FAS have physical abnor-

It is time for a great revival among the people

called “holy people.” We need a love that rejects gossip, that scorns slander, that is manifest in words of encouragement, in deeds of kindness and sympathetic —OLIVER G. WILSON understanding.

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THE INFLUENCE OF MUSIC From F. W. Krummacher’s book, David, King of Israel

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In the courtiers of King Saul, we are amazed first at the clearness with which they recognized demoniacal agency in the disconsolate condition of their master; then the frankness, combined, indeed, with the deepest respectfulness, with which they, regardless of the consequences which might arise to them from such a step, announced their opinion of his case, which was by no means flattering to him; and, finally, the suitableness of the counsel which they felt themselves constrained to give to him. They recommended to him the power of music as a means for relieving his mind, but with a wise discriminating judgment regarding its character. There was, indeed, no lack of musicians at the court at Gibeah; but they appear to have been devoid of the qualifications which were at this time needed. The servants knew well the poser of music to produce, according to its kind and quality, not less the most depraved than the holiest impressions. Music can unfetter the most destructive passions; but it can also, at least momentarily, tame and mitigate the wildest storms of the human heart. Whatever noble impulses, unobserved and slumbering, may lie concealed within the breast of man, may be aroused by music and brought forth into the light of day; but, at the same time, it may also stir the vilest passions in the lower regions of human nature, and accelerate their maturity into action. The music which the servants of the king thought of was not that which pleases the world, and which only opens the door to unclean spirits, but as such, animated by a nobler inspiration, might insensibly elevate the soul by its harmonious melody, as on angels’ wings, toward heaven. They thought of the harp, then the most solemn instrument of music, and on the melodies which were wont to sound forth in the sanctuary at the sacred festivals in Israel. And when the king, as if in a waking dream, entered into the proposal of his well-meaning servant, and said to them, “Provide me a man that can play well on the harp, and bring him to me,” one of them remarked, “Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, that is cunning in playing, and a mighty valiant man, and a man of war, and prudent in matters, and a comely person, and the Lord is with him.” At length David reaches Gibeah, carrying his harp w w w . u p l o o k . o r g

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hanging on his shoulderband, and is immediately introduced to the king. Here now they stand opposite each other—the one like the clear shining of the sun in spring, the other like a black thundercloud ominous of evil; the one full of blooming, hopeful life; the other, a dark specter arising from the realm of death. The king said to him, “Play to me.” David bowed his head, and obeyed; and so sweet and grandly solemn was the music which flowed from the strings of his harp, that the clouded brow of the king began visibly to brighten, and his stern features strangely became relaxed and mild. It was a song without words whose soothing melody then fell upon the ear of the king. Words corresponding to the music would have effected the contrary result to that which was aimed at, and might even have increased the ill temper of the king. There are even yet men enough of his sort—persons without faith, yea, at variance both with God and the world—whom solemn music is able most powerfully to delight, and in whom it awakens, at least for the time, dispositions which border on devotion and piety, while yet the words which correspond to the sacred melody would produce in them the very opposite effect. What is manifest from this, but that in the soul of such persons the last point at which they may be touched by that which is sacred, has not yet wholly decayed away? Let them be on their guard, however, lest by constant striving against the thoughts which, unspoken, echo forth from the harmonies with which they are delighted and refreshed, the last string in their soul on which the heavenly breath gently sounds may at length break asunder, and their aversion to the heavenly message finally terminate in a decided and incurable opposition to all that comes down from above. The sounds from David’s harp had, for the moment at least, wrought a true miracle. To the joy of those about them, the king breathed more calmly, and appeared milder and more serene than they had for a long time O C T O B E R

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means of grace. He must become conscious of what a man of childlike piety, such as David, is able, by the help of God, to do against all the powers of darkness. In the way of such an experience, he ought himself to have been won to a life of piety. But, alas! all the efforts to deliver the unhappy man were fruitless. His heart hardened itself more and more. One of our great secular poets has imagined what an elevating, yea, sanctifying power, may dwell in Godconsecrated music. He represents the hero of his poem as saved from an assault of darkest thoughts by harmonies of a sacred choir sounding out from a neighboring cathedral into his chamber. But the poet did not understand the rich harmonious music before which the power of all evil spirits must yield, not for a passing moment only, but forever. This is the music of the holy gospel, for which, however, there must first be created in the heart of him who would listen to it the faculty of hearing, which can only be done by means of repentance and an awakened consciousness of the need of salvation. There cannot be heard in heaven or on earth any music more powerful to pacify and elevate, than that which sounds forth from the spiritual harps of the evangelists and apostles. Here we may listen to melodious notes, which will overpower and make silent every discord within us.

beheld him. And often again, when the old melancholy began to gather like a cloud around his soul, the harp music of the shepherd youth obtained the same happy result. Is it any wonder that Saul loved the young harper? He sent to Jesse, saying, “Let David, I pray thee, stand before me, for he hath found favor in my sight”; in fact, so far did the favor of Saul extend that he received the Bethlehemite into the number of his pages and armorbearers. The history further informs us that “when the evil spirit from God” (i.e., the spirit that, by the mysterious judicial permission of God, laid hold on him) “was upon Saul, that David took an harp, and played with his hand: so Saul was refreshed, and was well, and the evil spirit departed from him.” These last words surprise us. “Did the music,” we ask, “banish the demon?” Not so; but the higher frame of mind into which the king was brought by it sufficed to limit at least the sphere of the operation of the evil spirit within him; while a full, clear, conscious life of faith on the part of Saul would have altogether destroyed the power of the wicked one. Besides, the silent intercessions which David sent up to heaven on the wings of the music of his harp must have contributed to the results with which his melodies were crowned. It appeared to be God’s purpose in sending David to the king, to afford to him a new and a last

—Recommended by Steve Rusk (CA)

Did the Wesleys Use Bar Tunes? Yes…and No! Many hymns from the pens of John and Charles Wesley are still commonly heard wherever Christians sing. And something else commonly heard is the myth that the brothers used English tavern tunes for the melodies. The argument is then extrapolated to excuse other kinds of “worldly” music being linked to Christian lyrics. But did the Wesleys really do that? Not so, says Dean McIntyre, director of music resources for the United Methodist Church. The myth began when people misunderstood the musical term

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“bar tune” or “bar form” with the idea of songs sung in establishments known for dispensing alcohol. The term, McIntyre explains, is a medieval poetry pattern made up of three or more stanzas. The Wesleys used this bar form in composing, among others, “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing,” “Christ the Lord is Risen Today,” “Jesus, Lover of My Soul,” “Jesus, Thy Blood and Righteousness,” and “And Can it be that I Should Gain.” It was important to the Wesleys, says McIntyre, that people sang the hymns they wrote “spiritually” and that “simply would not allow drinking songs to accompany hymn texts.” To put the myth to death, he adds, “In no hymn book or other publication of the Wesleys can there be found any example of, or encouragement to, use drinking songs to sing hymns.”

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One-Naturism Why is it that the battle still fiercely rages within?

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Reformed theology differs greatly from Dispensational theology in many respects, not the least of which is whether the believer possesses a sin nature. Holy Scripture speaks carefully and in great detail about the conflict between our sinful nature and the new nature. Some theological traditions have not always fully acknowledged this distinction between the new nature and the sinful nature in the believer. When an unbeliever trusts in the Lord Jesus Christ, God imparts His very life and moral nature within that individual. Despite a corrupt sin nature, Christians are enabled to experience a dynamic life for Christ through the indwelling new nature. This new nature cannot sin because it is born of God (1 Jn. 3:9). However, current Reformed theology argues vigorously that the believer cannot have both a new nature and the sin nature simultaneously. This, it is assumed, introduces an untenable spiritual contradiction within the believer, which causes confusion in the Christian life. This view, called “One-Naturism,” is rapidly gaining adherents in Reformed circles and is also making inroads among those in other theological traditions. Two of the most notable non-reformed teachers to espouse this view are David C. Needham of Multnomah School of the Bible, and popular author Neil Anderson. THE ONE-NATURE VIEW DEFINED Among Reformed Bible teachers, the view that a believer does not possess a divine new nature is admittedly a minority view. In contrast, the Reformed view that a Christian does not possess an old nature has rapidly become the majority view. During the last fifty years, Reformed teachers have stepped forward, ardently stressing that believers do not possess an old sinful nature. They teach that the “old self ” or “old man” or the “flesh” at regeneration ceases to be present in the body of the believer. The believer does not possess two natures, the old sinful nature and the new divine nature, w w w . u p l o o k . o r g

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but rather one nature received at conversion. Reformed Baptist author and preacher John MacArthur, from Panorama City, CA, writes, “I believe it is a serious misunderstanding to think of the believer as having both an old and new nature. Believers do not have dual personalities…there is no such thing as an old nature in the believer.” 1 In another place he explains, At new birth a person becomes a new creature; old things have passed away; behold, new things have come (2 Cor. 5:17). It is not simply that he receives something new, but that he becomes someone new…The new nature is not added to the old nature, but replaces it. The transformed person is a completely new “I.” Biblical terminology, then, does not say that a Christian has two different natures. He has but one nature, the new nature in Christ. The old self dies and the new self lives; they do not coexist. 2

This unorthodox view has been embraced by most current Reformed teachers and theologians. However, it must be noted that this view is of recent origin, and was not the view of the majority of Reformers from the time of the 1500’s to our present century. In our present era Reformed professor Robert Dabney taught this view in the late 1800’s and Reformed theologian B. B. Warfield espoused this view in his work, Christ is Lord. Many observers trace this view’s rise in popularity back to the 1940’s to the teaching and writings of Professor John Murray (1898-1975), who was associated for many years with Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. Yet we must reiterate that this view is a new view, a view that was not held by the majority of the early Reformers, nor is it held by leading Dispensational theologians. Anthony Hoekema, a respected Calvinist theologian, who holds the one-nature view, candidly concedes that this view is new and was not held by the Reformers. He writes, On the question of these two selves, Reformed theologians differ. Most of them, particularly those who taught and O C T O B E R

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wrote some years ago, hold that the old self and the new self are distinguishable aspects of the believer. Before conversion believers had an old self, at the time of conversion, however, they put on the new self—without totally losing the old self. Older Reformed teachers, such as John Calvin, Herman Bavinck, Charles Hodge, and William Hendriksen, held the dual nature view. 3

This issue is not merely an academic exercise, but one in which clear, biblical thinking is needed. Right thinking in this issue will help to establish the believer concerning the doctrines of sin, sanctification of the believer, and the appropriation of our rich spiritual resources in Christ. THE REFORMED DEFENSE OF THE ONE-NATURE VIEW Current Reformed writers are convinced that this new view is rooted in New Testament teaching. The much-debated chapter six of Romans, verses 1 through 12, are set forth as the foundation for “one naturism.” Again Anthony Hoekema, a leading proponent of this view, explains, “For we know that our old self was crucified with Him, so that the body of sin might be rendered powerless, that we should no longer be slaves to sin” (Rom. 6:6, NASB). What does Paul mean here by the “old self ”? John Murray suggests that this expression designates “the person in his unity as talking about a totality: the total person enslaved by sin—what we all are by nature. That “person enslaved by sin,” he is saying, was crucified with Christ. When Christ died on the cross, He dealt a death blow to the old self we once were. Given the meaning of “crucified,” Romans 6:6 states with unmistakable clarity that we who are in Christ, who are one with Him in His death, are no longer the old selves we once were.4

This view raises an important question. Does the Bible teach that our old self, that is, our old nature, has been dealt such a death blow that this nature no longer exists? Or, on the other hand, should we understand our crucifixion with Christ to be a legal judgment upon our old manner of life? These and other questions need to be asked and thoughtfully considered as we look into this important issue. Able Bible teachers have understood this “old self ” that was put to death to be our old manner of life, that is, all we were before we came to Christ by faith. Bible teachers have expressed that this is the suitable view when all aspects of Bible interpretation are taken into account. Dispensationalist Dr. John Walvoord, the former President of Dallas

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Seminary, explaining the traditional meaning of the phrase “that our old man is crucified,” writes, There is some confusion with the terms “old man” and “new man.” This problem can be resolved if it is understood that “old man” and “new” man are references not to the old or new nature, or self, but rather to the old manner of life, which is an expression of the old nature, and the new manner of life, which is an expression of the new nature.5

WHY DO BELIEVERS SIN? Why do believers sin? This is the most difficult question for proponents of the “one-nature” view. However, for opponents of this one-naturism, they feel it is one of their strongest arguments. If, as Reformed writers tell us, the old sinful nature no longer exists in a Christian and if believers have only one nature, our new nature in Christ—which is not subject to sin and can’t sin—then the logical question arises in our minds: why does a believer sin? Reformed teachers explain that, although the old sinful nature no longer exists in the Christian, the ingrained patterns and habits of the old life are, nonetheless, deeply imbedded into our minds; and these sinful patterns are the cause of sin in our lives. One writer explains, Where does sin mount its attack to keep me from doing what I really want to do? Your flesh, that part of you which was trained to live independently of God…memories, habits, conditioned responses, and thought patterns ingrained in you. It is your responsibility to crucify the flesh by repatterning your old thoughts by allowing your mind to be renewed (Rom. 12:2). 6

With all due respect, we must differ and suggest that this novel view as to why a Christian sins strains logic. More importantly, it is at odds with Holy Scripture. First, allow us to consider the unreasonableness of this view. The ingrained patterns, habits, and responses of sin that are formed in a believer may account for sin in the lives of those who come to Christ at an older age, adults who have had time for sin to form deep-seated patterns in their lives. But how do we explain the sin in the lives of those who come to faith in Christ as young children? Certainly, they have not had the same deeply ingrained sin patterns as older adults. Yet, by their own admission they sin just as often, and in the same ways, as believers who come to Christ at a much older age. Furthermore, how does it explain new sins in the life of a believer as he becomes older? A person who

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has come to Christ at age ten, for example, does not have the ingrained patterns of drug abuse, adultery, fornication, and sexual immorality; yet in the lives of many believers who come to Christ at a young age, these sins do appear in their lives as adults. This view fails to logically explain the cause of sin in believers. This view also contradicts the testimony of Holy Scripture. What does the Bible say concerning why a believer sins? In addressing this very point, the Bible sets forth vividly the source of sin. Paul, the apostle, confesses the reason for his sin, “…sin that dwells in me. For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) dwells no good thing” (Rom. 7:17-18). Paul further explains, “I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me” (Rom. 7:21). What is the biblical reason for the cause of sin? We must conclude that our sinful disposition, that is our sin nature, is the reason for our sin. We sin because we are sinners possessing a sin nature. We must not deceive ourselves into thinking that sinful living is the result of mere habits and ingrained thought patterns. WILL OUR SINFUL TENDENCIES BECOME PROGRESSIVELY WEAKER? Reformed theology teaches that although the sin nature is no longer present within the believer, the “remnants of original sin” are present. These remnants are the former patterns of thinking and old sinful habits. Therefore, it is taught that as the Christian matures in Christ, the grip of these fleshly habits will become less and less. Reformed theologian John Gerstner explains,

held up as an example of a mature believer, one who has certainly progressed in the faith. If this doctrine of a lessening of the pull of the flesh in the experience of mature believers were true, then we would see it evident in the life of the apostle. However, the very opposite is seen, for we read in Romans, “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not... I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me” (Rom. 7:18-19). The Apostle Paul clearly expresses the working of the flesh as an integral part of his Christian experience; and instead of a lessening and diminishing of the power of the sinful nature, it is seen in all its evil strength. It is pulling, tearing at the apostle in its attempts to bring him to sin, instead of language that would indicate the simple workings of the “remnants of original sin,” old habits, and thought patterns that are lessening in this mature saint of God. We see that as a Christian progresses in maturity and spiritual growth, his old nature continues to assail him with sinful desires. The old nature can never be reformed. However, by yielding to the indwelling Spirit of God, and taking up the weapons of prayer and the Word of God, the urges of the old nature can and will be resisted. This is the true path to victory.

David Dunlap ENDNOTES 1. John MacArthur, Freedom from Sin—Romans 6–7, (Chicago, IL: Moody Press, 1991), pp. 31-32 2. John MacArthur, Ephesians, (Chicago, IL: Moody Press, 1987) p. 164 3. Anthony Hoekema, Five Views on Sanctification, (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1987), p. 78. 4. Ibid., p. 79 5. John Walvoord, Five Views on Sanctification, (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1987), pp. 100-101 6. Neil Anderson, Victory over Darkness, (Ventura, CA: Regal Books, 1990), pp. 83-84, 75, 45-46 7. John Gerstner, Dispensationalism, Wrongly Dividing the Word of Truth, (Wolgemuth & Wyatt, Brentwood, TN, 1991), p. 147 8 Robert L. Dabney, quoted in John MacArthur, Vanishing Conscience, (Waco,TX,Word, 1995), p. 219

The Spirit of God continues to work faith in the regenerate and they therein persevere in good works, always struggling against the remnants of their original sin whose guilt is pardoned but whose power is decreasingly felt until destroyed at death.7

In like manner, Robert L. Dabney, the Reformed theologian and former professor of Systematic Theology at Princeton, writes, …And if the old nature never loses any of its strength until death…if then any professed believer finds the “old man” in undiminished strength, this is proof that he has never put on the new man.” 8

Is this true? One of the best ways to examine this teaching is to examine the life of the Apostle Paul. All Christians would agree that the Apostle Paul should be w w w . u p l o o k . o r g

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Your Home: A Birthing Place for Heaven?

According to Luke

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by Dr. David Gooding

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If you have any of the following questions on your mind, this book is for you: • How do I know if God is calling me to lead a Bible study? • What are the biblical principles for evangelizing my friends, co-workers and neighbors? • How do I invite and encourage them to come to a home or workplace Bible study? • How do I get started? • How does one become a good study leader? • How do I lead individuals into a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ and then encourage them to grow and mature in their faith? A thoroughly biblical, practical, and inspirational book. Includes a helpful appendix on the authority of Scripture. 136 Pgs. Paper

In this fresh and original approach to the Gospel according to Luke, Dr. Gooding uses a careful analysis of the Gospel’s literary structure to bring out Luke’s unique presentation of the person and work of Christ. Luke presents his story in two parts—the coming of the Son of God from glory and His return to glory. Within these two main sections of the Gospel are many interconnected themes which, while they show Luke’s skill as a literary artist, in no way lessen the historical value of his sources. This imaginative yet reverent exposition will help many readers of the Gospel to gain more insight into Christ’s redeeming work and live more closely to their risen Lord. 384 Pgs. Paper

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—Author Unknown Is it nothing to you, all ye that pass by? Behold, and see if there be any sorrow like unto My sorrow, which is done unto Me, wherewith the Lord hath afflicted Me in the day of His fierce anger. Lamentations 1:12

There was never a prince so royal, So worthy of deathless fame; There was never a friend so loyal, Such an ocean of love in a name! There were never such springs of sweetness, Such streams of ineffable bliss, Such powers of holy meetness, As welled in the heart of His, Which moved His hands in kindness, O'erflowing His lips with grace, Impelling His feet to mercy And suffusing with love His face. Yet never a friend did fathom Such measureless depths of shame; And never the vilest traitor Did bear such a burden of blame! There were never such rivers of sorrow, There were never such floods of grief, As flowed from the hearts of sinners Into His—for their relief! And where is the heart so hardened, And who is as vile as he Who beholdeth the Saviour suffer, And says, “It is nothing to me”?

Gordon’s Calvary, Jerusalem Photo: John Nicholson III