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Volume 58 Number 4 Lubbock, Texas 79493 Copyright $9.00 Per Year April 1991 |
Sheep and Goats Redemption Infant Salvation Matthew 25: 31-46 Clear Creek Church History Knowledge of Everlasting Life Our Responsibility A Blessing in Thorns Deacon Ordination Letter of Thanks Brother Paul Mariner Ruby Dee Perkins Anglin Brother Ralph Sheppard Hand Brother James Earl Locklear Sister Oneta Conway Sister Ruth Carroll Albert Lee Bates Elder Marvin Smith
Riverside, California
Essential Doctrine
Article Ten in the Articles of Faith adopted by the church I pastor reads:
We believe in the resurrection of the dead both of the just (elect) and the unjust, and that the unjust shall go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into life eternal.
One of the scriptures listed as proof of this doctrine is Matthew 25:31-46. Essentially the same article of faith, with the same scriptures listed as biblical proof, appears in almost every Primitive Baptist statement of faith. Could we not designate this doctrine and scriptural interpretation as a fundamental doctrine, a bedrock doctrine of the faith?
Occasionally, variant interpretations of this lesson from Matthew 25 arise. I will briefly mention two of them.
The A.D. 70 Position
The first is that this lesson deals with God’s judgment against the Jewish nation, culminating in the siege and destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70. That event lesson is clearly the primary topic of Matthew 24. However, this lesson speaks of Jesus gathering all nations before him, not just the nation of Israel, removing this interpretation as a viable position on the test. If he gathers all nations, he will gather Jews and Gentiles alike, not just Jews.
The Disobedient Sheep-Goat Position
The second position that occasionally arises is that sheep represent obedient children of God, and goats represent disobedient children of God. If this interpretation were true, it presents numerous inconsistencies with a variety of Bible topics. In Jeremiah 50:6 God said, My people have been lost sheep; their shepherds have caused them to go astray, they have turned them away on the mountains: they have gone from the mountain to hill, they have forgotten their resting place. Notice that even in their lost condition, gone astray, and forgotten their resting place, God still called them sheep; lost sheep, but still sheep. Notice further in Luke 15:4-7 that the one lost sheep was a sheep when it went astray, and it was a sheep when the shepherd returned it to the fold, a lesson that unquestionably refers to children of God in disobedience and, ultimately repentance. Matthew 25 does not teach as about sheep that act like goats; it teaches about sheep and goats, two distinct species.
If this second interpretation were true, it would deny the indisputable biblical doctrine of repentance and forgiveness. Verse 46 reads, And these [the goat-like wicked] shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous [the sheep-like righteous] into life eternal. The word translated everlasting and eternal is the same Greek word, aionios. According to A. T. Robertson, a conservative, highly respected Greek New Testament authority, this is the strongest word in the Greek language to convey the idea of eternity. If this position of blessing and punishment is eternal, then no one can move from one position to the other, from punishment to blessing. Contrary to this fixed position, Jesus taught in the lesson from Luke 15 that an erring sheep can return to the fold. It should be further noted that the word translated punishment means penal punishment, not disciplinary punishment or chastening.
The Doctrinal Position
The historic position, reflected by this lesson’s appearance is almost all our Articles of Faith, is, I strongly believe, the correct position on the lesson. First of all despite one segment of symbolism, this is not a parable. The son of man coming in glory, with all the holy angels, sitting on his throne, and gathering all nations before him is not a symbol. It is a literal truth! The only symbolism in the lesson relates to his division of the nations, similar to the way a shepherd separates the goats from the sheep in his flock. Further, throughout the lesson Christ, the Son of man, appears as the King, not as the shepherd. Christ did not want us to forget the literal truth of this lesson. We are not in a parable with a shepherd and a flock. We never leave the presence of the King on the throne in his glory.
What does this central issue of separation signify? First, it signifies the logical separation of species. Children of God do not belong to the same species, in the eternal sense, as the wicked. From our frail prospective, we see our fellowman, even those close to us, superficially. We see only the bare surface of their character. We look around and see so many inequities, so many things that appear so terribly unfair. But we cannot make sense of it all, or even determine who is responsible. Never fear, in the final judgment our God will see every person who ever lived to the core of their being, before the King, their true character will appear as obvious and transparent as the difference between a sheep and a goat to a shepherd. He will have no problem whatever in making the proper separation.
This lesson is a study in contrasts. Notice the number of contrasts that appear; Come--Depart, Blessed--Cursed. Punishment--Life. Also notice the contrast in the character of the sheep-like righteous and the goat-like wicked. The righteous reached out to help the Least of these my brethren.
The wicked never showed a kindness to one of the least of these. Also notice the contrast in the King’s disposition. The sheep-like righteous were told to. inherit- the kingdom prepared for them from the foundation of the world. The goat-like wicked were told- to depart into everlasting punishment prepared for the devil and his angels.
The lesson also demonstrates the pervasive impact of the new birth on behavior. Despite a significant notice of the righteous conduct of the sheep, their entrance into blessing was based on an inheritance, not a reward. However, the King distinctly noted their righteous conduct. The New Testament clearly teaches that the life of God in his child imposes itself on that child’s moral conduct.
For when the gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another. Romans 2:14, 15.
This lesson teaches that certain Gentiles without the influence of the Mosaic law lived by its moral teaching, based on a law written in their hearts. God teaches that he writes his law in the hearts of each of his children. This lesson tells us that the law in the heart dramatically imposes itself on the moral conduct of everyone whose heart has been changed by that law written on it. The purpose of this character inscription in Matthew 25 deals with identification not cause. By their fruits ye shall know them.
Notice what the King said in Verse 34, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. The word blessed was translated from the Greek root for our English word eulogy, to speak well of that word appears in another key New Testament passage that shares such in common with this lesson.
Blessed by the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as He hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love. Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ in to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us- accepted in the beloved. Ephesians 1: 3-6.
In this passage from Ephesians Paul mentions God’s blessings, his eulogy of his children, three times in direct conjunction with his election of them in Christ before the foundation of the world.
What can this powerful lesson from Jesus teach us? We learn from it that the greatest mystery, the most difficult challenge we can imagine, sorting out the hearts and motives of all men and passing righteous judgment on them, our King will accomplish with the same natural comfort as a shepherd distinguishing sheep from goats. We also learn that his judgment will be fully vindicated by the conduct of all the wicked who are sent to the eternal place of punishment. They raised one argument, heard his accurate and piercing response. Then they departed silently to their place of deserved punishment. We need not fear a miscarriage of Divine judgment! It will not occur! We need not think of God as “Blind Justice.” His eyes are altogether open and aware of every action, thought, and intent of every living person. His judgment will be right.
There are five Greek words in the New Testament for the words, redeem, redeemed, redeeming, redemption: they are:
1. Agorazo, ag-or-ad’zo to go to market, i.e. (by impl.) to purchases: spec, to redeembuy, redeem.
2. Apolutrosis, ap-ol-oo’ -tro-sis: (the act) ransom in full, i.e. (fig) riddance, or (spec.) Christian salvation: - deliverance, redemption.
3. Exagorazo, en~ag-ro-ad’- zo: to buy up, i. e. ransom: fig. to rescue from loss (improve opportunity) : - redeem.
4. Lutroo, loo-tro’~-o: to ransom (lit. or fig.): - redeem.
5. lutrosis, loo-tro-sis: a ransoming (fig.):- redeemed, redemption.
The subject of redemption is a fundamental doctrine in God’s word. I want to focus on four points as I study this important subject: the four points are: The redeemer, what was used as the redeeming payment, The place of redemption, The effects of redemption.
THE REDEEMER
Blessed be the Lord God of Israel: for he hath visited and redeemed His people. Lu. 1:68.
“And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” Lu. 2:38
“And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people: And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done.” Lu. 24: 19-21.
“Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus “ Rom. 3:24
“Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is everyone that hangeth on a tree:” Gal. 3:13
“But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.” Gal. 4:4-5
THE PAYMENT FOR REDEMPTION
“Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you.” 1 Pe. 1:18-20 -
Neither by the blood of goats or calves. but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.” Heb. 9:12
“In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace:” Eph. 1:7
“In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:” Col. 1:14
“And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation:” Rev. 5:9
THE PLACE OF REDEMPTION
“And when they were come unto a place called Gol’go-tha, that is to say, a place of a skull,” Matt. 27:33
And they bring him unto the place Gol’go-tha,, which is being interpreted, The place of a skull.” Mr. 15:22.
And it was the third hour, and they crucified him.” Mr. 15:25 -
“And when they were come to the place, which is called Cal’va-ry, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.” Lu. 23:33
“And he bearing his cross went forth in to a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha: Where they crucified him, and the two other with him, on either side one, and Jesus in the midst.” Jo. 10:17-18
Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree :“ Gal. 3:13
“And having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.’.’ Col. 1:20
THE EFFECT’S OF REDEMPTION
Because Christ shed his blood, thereby redeeming the elect, their sins are forgiven, and they are justified before God; and are reconciled unto him; and made at one with him; and have now received the atonement.
“Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:” Ro. 3:24
“Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him or if when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, having reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.” Ro. 5:9-11
“In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sin, according to the riches of his grace:” Eph 1:7
“In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:” Col.1:14
“And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.” Heb. 9:15
No wonder the apostle Paul said: ‘But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” Paul believed and taught that redemption, reconciliation, and atonement that took place on the cross.
Elder Bernard Gowens to be with
BETHEL CHURCH IN MCMAHAN
Bethel Primitive Baptist Church will embrace their semi-annual communion services during the 3rd weekend in May 1991 The Bread, Wine and Washing of The Saints Feet.
Saturday 10:30 a.m. worship services will begin, including regular conference at 1:30 p.m., then additional worship services.
Sunday morning worship services and communion during the afternoon. Meals will be served Saturday and Sunday at the Church.
We have been looking forward to, and praying for this service for sometime now. We are not only looking for good visitation from the Sister churches, and other ministers, but especially The Lord!
Mark your calendars and come worship
The Lord during these series of services.
That will be Saturday, May 18th and Sunday May 19th, 1991.
Bethel Church is located just west of McMahan, Texas on Farm Road 713. Bethel is located 10 miles east of Lockhart, TX. If you come to Lockhart on U.S. 183, then turn East on Texas 20 for five miles, then turn right on Farm Road 713 for five more miles.
We are praying for The Lord, in The Spirit, to lift us all to new heights.
Hulan F. Bass, pastor
ABOUT THE SAMPLE COPIES
We do send sample copies of The Banner of Love upon request, but they must be mailed in the regular mail. The postage cost much more to send it in a singular wrapper.
Thank you,
Editor
Dear Readers, please read 1 Thes. 2:1,9 v. 9, we preached unto you the gospel of God. Let us single out vs. 4 and see our responsibility, but as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even as we speak, not as pleasing man, but God, which trieth our hearts For out of :the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. Mat. 12,34.
First, let us think what the gospel is. Gospel the word of God; see, what we are put in trust of: the word of God. Surely we have to conclude that the gospel is to be preached for it is said, preach the word, the words of the Bible. And be instant, “right now”, if it was to be instant then, why not now.
In the Gals. 1:1,14:6,9. I marvel, wonder, stand in surprise, that ye are so soon removed from Him that called you into the grace of Christ, unto another gospel called you into Christ, Christ in for the hope of glory, not unto you, you go the rest of the way. Get Gal. 3:1,5, 0 foolish Gal., etc. please read and see if the gospel does not record, it is by my spirit sayest the Lord, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin.
Again Christ in you the hope of glory Col. 1:27. The dictionary says the gospel is, to instruct from the Bible. See again what we are held in trust with. In my little words the story of God’s work with the people, and back to Gal. 1:7, which is not another; get last of 6 unto another gospel, why? Cause there is only one story of the Bible, Christ and Him crucified. For there is no name under heaven whereby we may be saved or will be saved. See V. 8,9, and for sure we I, want to hold the gospel.
Paul preached that to have any other gospel, “which is not a gospel” we would be accursed, miserable, or to be excommunicated. If I held to the so called gospel, “that is not another, for again let me impress there is only one gospel, story of the Bible. I ought to and will be miserable, or open to excommunicated, to be cut off from membership of any association as punishment,
Again, let us read the, “we need not say the true gospel of the Bible for there is not another gospel.” My words again or story of the Bible. Mark said the gospel must first be published among all nations. And it was then. First to the lost sheep of the house of Israel, then- to the Gentiles and we get a better picture, I suggest from Acts 2:1,12, Then read all of Peters great sermon 12 to finish the chapter.
Paul said in Gal. 1:11,12 The gospel I preach is not from man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. Note here, is why we are so careful about teaching, see Heb. 8. Get sure this story, lesson, gospel of the old and new covenants. Sure get 6,13.
The gospel tells us the old covenant had faults, had it been faultless then should no place have been sought for the second, Note V 8 say for God will make a covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah 9 says, because they continued not in my covenant and I regarded them not, saith the lord. Please notice well V 10, For this is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel, “My people” after- those days saith the Lord I will put my laws into their mind and write them in their hearts and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people, V. 11 and they shall not teach every man his neighbor, and every man his brother, know the Lord; for all shall know me from he least to the greatest; read on.
Now let me get the start again. In plain words, we are the church, is put in trust of the gospel, again let me impress there is no other gospel story of the Bible, the word of God. IN my own words, let us be true to the gospel.
We find a companion text in sentiment found in 1 Tim.6:1 Let as many servants as are under the-yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and His doctrine be not blasphemed. We are under the Master, Teacher above., God is our Master. Let us count our own Master,
God, worthy of all honor, and hold the gospel story of the Bible in trust. Let ms say we are trusted with it by God’s will, we will not let it be blasphemed or put under.
ABOUT BROTHER GEORGE RUSSELL
I almost let my subscription expire because I did not look at the address label. I am enclosing a check for an extension of two years.
We, my younger brother and I have been kept rather busy helping to care for our father, George J. Russell. He is a youngster of 98 and has been living alone since mother died in 1975.
Dad is now in a nursing home here in Shawnee, OK. and has been for a month. Anyone desiring to send him a card or letter can send it to:
42 Chickasaw, Shawnee, Ok. 74801.
In Christian Love, Walter H. Russell
UNDERGOES SURGERY
Just a note to tell you the sad news, we just received.
Our pastor’s wife, Sister Cleta Booker had had emergency surgery. And as Elder Booker said, it didn’t look good. But we believe in a God that has all power and we believe that He can cure any kind of illness.
We, all of us, ask you if you could find the time to remember her in your prayers. We all need your prayers.
Your brother in hope, Ed Pittman Hobart, Okla.
Luke 18:15-17 - And they brought unto him also infants, that he would touch them; but when his disciples saw it, they rebuked them. But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer Little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. Verily I say unto you, whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.
Several important doctrinal basic premises develop and come to light manifestly here.
Infants in the Greek is (Strong’s #1025) -brephos - infant (prop. unborn) lit. or fig.: babe (young) child, infant...
Children in - the Greek is- (Strong’s #3813) paidion - a childling (of either sex) i.e. (prop.) an infant...
Jesus - is calling in this particular context, little children the same as an infant.
Jesus is not referring to a young person in their youth. Jesus is equating The Kingdom (Church on Earth) with the same quality as an Infant.
We also affirm that of such (infants) is the kingdom of heaven.. .This affirms that infants are of such quality - that - they are entitled- to be members of the kingdom of heaven.
We adults should adopt this quality of life-attitude of forth-rightness as an infant (little child), through humility (Matt. 18:1--5, that we might be “great” in the kingdom of heaven.
2nd Sam. 12:21 -- teaches that David, after his terrible sins with Bathsheba, Uriah’s wife, was forgiven of these sins (verse 13), but that his child by her would die (V. 14). David mourned, but said “....can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me.”
David’s infant son went to heaven!
Job 21:7 - Wherefore do the wicked live, become old, yea, are mighty in power.
Job. 36:14 - They die in youth, and their life is among the unclean....
Is job contradicting himself? He says the wicked live to be old, then says that they (unclean) die in their youth.. Which is true? Both. Job is not saying that infants die as a wicked unclean person. The youth is not an infant. The youth in this verse is simply a young person. Strong’s #5290 gives the Hebrew word - no’ar - boyhood, child, youth...
Rev. 13:8.’ - Infants do not; worship the beast...
Rev. 17:8 Infants do not wonder after the beast..
It has always been through history, the Primitive Baptist Position concerning infants that die in infancy, that they go to Heaven. Why?
Because we can find many references showing that of such - infants and little children - go to heaven. There is no scripture that shows that such goes to hell-lake of fire.
It is also the Primitive Baptist position, that all Adamic Humanity, from conception forward, infants, little children, young teenagers, young adults, grown adults, middle-aged adults and old people, that they all are under sin in Adam. Psalms 51:5, 58:3; Ecc. 7 :20, Rom. 3:9, 19:, 5:12, 19, 23: Eph. 2:13, 1st Peter 1:23.
There are many, many more verses, but in these few listed we find that: In Conceptiom: In the womb they are wicked; not a single just person upon earth: Both Jew and Gentile are under sin: All the world (of humanity) is guilty before God; all have sinned and come short of the Glory of God. By nature we are all- the children of wrath. even the seed is corruptible.
So, we conclude that there is no such thing as Infantile Purity, harmless, undefiled, innocent pure blood of babies, nor an age of accountability - from conception. We are all (infants up) dead in sins.
Well, if all infants that die in infancy go to heaven, and they are not pure and holy, but dead in sins, how do they get to heaven?
If they get to heaven on infantile purity, and are not sinners, then they are safe and saved without the need of a Saviour. If that be true, then there will be some in Heaven without the Saving and redeeming Grace of Jesus Christ.
The Truth is, that all the Family of God, infants and adults are saved-sinners, only by the blood of Jesus Christ, who redeemed them from- their sins on Calvary’s Cross, once and for all-Heb. 10: 14.
Infants are redeemed the same as adults, as follows: Rom. 5:9, Eph. 1:7, Col. 1:14, Heb. 9:12-14, 22, 1st Peter 1:18-19, Rev. 5:9.
There is no redemption in any other, save in the Blood of Jesus Christ. All (elect) men, women, children, infants, are lost in Adam, but saved in Christ Jesus’ blood!
Infants die. Why? Because of sin -Rom. 6:23, James 1:15.
Notice the lesson in Matt. 18:10—14 -Jesus is teaching that a man had 100 sheep, and one was gone astray. He says that the man went to find the lost sheep, and rejoiced in his saving such.
Question: In this lesson, carefully study just exactly who - that one lost sheep was.. Who was the lost sheep?
Answer: Matt. 18:14 - Jesus tells me it was one of these little ones, and He is not willing that one of these little ones should perish. If Jesus is not willing that a little one should perish, then I conclude that no little one will perish. Born. 9:19: 2nd Peter 3:9. Jesus is not willing and no one has ever resisted His will. Born. 9:19, but does His will-Dan. 4:35.
Conclusion: All infants are Adamis in Seed-Genetic nature, and therefore are all sinners by nature, and then also by practice. Yet, all infants that die in infancy are heaven-bound. Why? Because there are Scriptures that teach that of such (infants) go to heaven. There is no scripture that teaches that infants die and go to hell. If infants die, then Why? Because of sin, by nature and practice, just as is the same with Adults.
Then if infants are sinners, how do they go to heaven? Only by the redeeming blood of Jesus Christ, the same as adults! There is no scripture concerning redemption apart from the blood of Jesus Christ. Redemption is only by the blood of Christ, period.
Again, this position has always been the Primitive Baptists’ position scripturally.
Pursuant to agreement while in conference, Second Sunday in July, 1990, Salem Primitive Baptist Church met on Saturday, September 29, 1990, for the purpose of ordaining Brother George Gentry to the office of deacon.
The following brethren answered the request of Salem Church and organized themselves into a presbytery: Elders Vernon Lee, James Winston, Charles Holmes, Harold Stumbaugh, and Carl Arnold.
Deacons: David Crafton, David Lindsey, Frank Blair, Homer Bettie, Gerald Holland, and Elton Williams.
Elder Vernon Lee acted as moderator until the brethren elected Elder Lee as moderator and Elder Carl Arnold as clerk. By request of the candidate, Elder Harold Stumbaugh was I asked to deliver the ordination prayer and Elder Lee to deliver the charge.
The moderator asked the spokesman if the church was satisfied with the work of the presbytery. He answered, yes.
The presbytery was asked if it was satisfied. The answer was in the affirmative.
The candidate was then delivered back to the church, and the right band of fellowship was extended as a hymn was sung. After the reading of the minutes, the presbytery was dismissed. The closing prayer was led by Elder James Winston.
Elder Vernon Lee, Moderator
Elder Carl Arnold, Clerk
We want to publish-- Good meeting reports -- Doctrinal articles -- Christian experiences. -- Biblical exhortations
Attended Sacred Harp Singing
I visited my son and family in Houston during the Easter holidays.
On Sunday morning we drove to McMahan, where we attended the Sacred Harp Singing Convention. As we drove up to the church house, we could hear the beautiful singing before going back to Houston. It was such a delight to attend the singing and see so many loved ones there.
I have fond memories of attending Sacred Harp Singings, as a child. It is still very beautiful.
Sincerely,
Opal Richards
RESURRECTION
We see that Job had confidence in the resurrection. Reading in chapter 19 verse 25,26: For I know my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet is my flesh shall I see God. I believe that Job knew about the resurrection of Christ and that God gave him the knowledge of it. By reading . the scriptures we see that Jesus is the resurrection. (John 11:25) And in that same chapter verse 43 we read of the raising of Lazarus from the grave. By raising Lazarus from the grave Jesus is proving that he can raise us from the grave. Romans 6:5 tells us that we are in the likeness of his death. and that we are also in the likeness of his resurrection.
First Corinthians 15:41 we see that it is talking about different glories: the glory of the sun, moon, and the stars, and there is a glory of the resurrection, reading on in verse 42-44 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory; it is weakness; it is raised in power: it is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. This is the hope that we have. Not hope that it might happen, but confident that it is going to happen. That we will be in an incorruptible body with our Lord. Those who are still here on the last day will be changed in a twinkling of an eye from corruptible to incorruptible bodies. We all shall live in the presence of our Lord.
God gave us the knowledge of the resurrection and eternal life. Luke 24:45 Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures. So by hearing, reading this Bible, and the understanding that came from God we see that we have eternal life. What a comfort to know this. Of all the things to know in this world, this is the best thing to know. As we see in First Thessalonians 4:18, Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
BELIEF
If you have faith in God, then you can believe that there is eternal life. Who gives us this faith or belief, man or God? Do we have to believe in God to have eternal life? John 3:15-17 That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. Is this saying that God sent his Son that we might be saved, and that those who believe will be saved? Let me put it this way. Every child of God will believe in the Lord and the subject of eternal life. They believe because God opened up their hearts to believe. Acts 16:14 And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul. Now, the next verse I do like because it mentions baptism. And when she was baptized... Notice how it said that the Lord opened her heart: then she was baptized. To be baptized does not get you to heaven.
John 3:16 says that God so loved the world. Now does this word “world” mean everybody on earth? I don’t believe it does. This word "world" is only pertaining to the children of God. So we can say that God so loved His children that he gave his only begotten Son for their redemption.
First John 5:1 ‘Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God. One way to. tell if someone is a child of God, is if they believe in God. This Belief is important for us in this life. Go to the fourth and fifth verse: For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. Who she that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God? Notice the question mark in the fifth verse? It is asking that who believes in Jesus, is he the one who overcometh the world? And this word “world” is talking about this sinful world. I believe that the answer came in the fourth verse: For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world and chapter 4:15 Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. God dwells in us and by that we can overcome the troubles and temptations of this world.
Going to the verse seven we read of the Trinity For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, [Jesus Christ] and the Holy Ghost: [the comforter] and these three are one. This is hard to understand, but by faith I believe this is true. Faith is the only way that I can understand that this Bible is true.
Verse 8 we see that there are three that bear witness in Earth. And these three are the spirit, the water, and the blood, and these three agree in one. To my understanding, these three bear witness to the three that bear record in Heaven. Reading in verse nine we see that the witness of God. is greater than the witness of men. And in the tenth verse: He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself. What does it mean to have the witness in our self? Go to Romans 8:16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.
Now go back to First John 5:11-13 we see what this record is, And this is the record, that God bath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that bath the son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. Now read that last verse again. The writer is saying in verse 13 These things have I written unto you that believe.... He is talking to those who already believe. He did not say that you may believe, that you might believe, that you could believe, but he said.. unto you that believe, believe in what? . . .on the name of the son of God...So he is talking to those who believe in Jesus Christ. Now read on.. .that ye may know that ye have eternal life. these things are written for those who believe in Jesus that they may know that they have eternal life. That I understand. But, I was confused when it came to the next part, .and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. Did you notice that he said “may believe”? Now that just messed up everything. I brought this to a minister one day, and to my understanding, this verse is talking about the belief in our heart and the unbelief that is in our mind. . therefore the, writer is writing these things to us, who believe in our heart that Jesus is the Son of God, that may know we have eternal life, and that this may help our unbelief.
Go to Mark 9:24 .. Lord, I believe, help thou mine unbelief. We believe in our hearts that Jesus is. the Son of God. But, in our carnal minds this unbelief takes place.
There are times when I have had doubt, and have questioned, and wondered that possibly there is no God. I am ashamed of this, but by reading these scriptures, my faith becomes stronger in the belief in our Lord, and in Jesus. go to Romans 10:17 So then faith cometh by bearing, and hearing by the word of God. The Apostle Paul is telling us that our faith comes stronger from hearing and reading the gospel. the more we study the gospel, the more we fellowship, the more we worship, the more our faith becomes stronger in God and in the promise of eternal life. The more we do this the more we look onward.
If you have never studied the fifth chapter of First John then you should. It mentions a lot of strong points that the Primitive Baptist believe in. I would like to mention one more thing about verse thirteen. John says that these things are written to those who believe. He is talking about those things he has written there. But, I believe that verse can be said about the whole Bible. This Bible was written to those who believe in Jesus. So they may know of what the Lord has done for them, which is that Christ redeemed us and reconciled us to God. Jesus paid the price for our sins. I believe that Jesus came into this world to die for my sins, and that he rose up from the grave. I believe that he will come again to take us home. By. the faith that God has given to me I believe that this to be true.
Pray for me brothers and sisters. Sometimes I wonder if it is the will of the Father for me to write these articles. I believe that I get more out of them than you do. If it is the will of God, then give Him the glory. Again, I ask you to pray for me.
In Christian Love,
Paul Montgomery
BORROWED A PREVIOUS COPY
Please send me a years’ subscription to The Banner of Love. I borrowed a previous copy from Elder Phillip Hoskins and greatly enjoyed the reading material and articles contained within. Enclosed is the subscription rate.
May God richly bless all, Llc. Ricky D. Dorton -Pineville, Ky.
HELP WITH EXPENSES
We enjoy the Banner very much and would like to help a little on your expenses. Subscribe for one year and the rest to help with expenses on the paper
Your truly
Jack Semadeni
Dove Creek, Cob.
Editors Note: Brother Semadeni, we greatly appreciate your consideration.
31 When the Son of man shall come in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then shall He sit upon the throne of His glory.
32 And before Him shall be gathered all nations and He shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats;
33 And He shall set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left.
34 Then shall the King say to them on His right hand, Come Ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.
There are many views given in different’ areas about this text of scripture. We would at this time like to consider verse 34. The King (Christ, the Shepherd, the Son of man) says to them on the right hand, Come, inherit the Kingdom. The only ones that have the promise to inherit the kingdom are those people (sheep) on His right hand. This kingdom, is prepared for them from the foundation of the world. Whatever we might think the Kingdom represents, it is only promised to them on the right hand.
Whatever blessings that come from the Father are only to those on the right hand.
We believe the scripture is in keeping with others in the Bible that teach the resurrection of the body, both the just and the unjust. Acts ch. 24 verse 15, Daniel 12:2, John 5:28 and 29.
Continuing with verse 35:For I was an hungered and ye gave me meat; I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink; I was a stranger, and ye took me in; 36 Naked, and ye clothed me; I was sick and ye visited me; I was in prison, and ye come unto me.
Certainly these two verses tell of the duty of the sheep to serve their Shepherd. We all know we are to do the things mentioned above, when we have been taught by the Spirit, and from the Word of God. We as God’s people come short of doing the things ‘we know we should be doing, but He is still addressing those on His right hand.
Verse 37. Then shall the righteous answer Him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungered, and fed thee? Or thirsty and gave thee drink? Verse 38 When saw we there a stranger and took thee in? or naked and clothed thee?
Verse 39: or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?
In verse 40, the King (Shepherd) concludes his speech to those on his right hand (The sheep) by saying, And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. The end of the matter concerning those on his right hand, we would say is: they are blessed of the Father, they are told to come inherit the kingdom, and that prepared for them from the foundation of the world.
In verse 41, the King begins to address those people on the left hand, by saying, Depart from me ye cursed into everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels. There is no blessing from the Father as in verse 34. there is not the word come, and there is not the word inherit, and there is not the word kingdom, promised to these people. We do find the words, Depart, cursed, and into everlasting fire.
Verses 42, 43, 44, and 45 are opposites of those things that the sheep did. Those on the left hand had no view of relieving those that are in need. Many times, God’s people act like those people by neglecting their duties, but they were never classed as goats. David speaks in Psalms 100 verse 3, We are His people, and the sheep of his pasture.
Verse 46 brings a conclusion to the matter he mentions in verse 32: And He shall separate them one from another as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats. This would have, to be speaking of the resurrection of the body at His second coming. A timely application could not apply here, because none of the people living now are separated from each other. We all live together here in the earth. What about those who have died before us? Shall we not also join those of all ages who have fallen asleep? Yes, all of Adam’s race will be joined together in death, and there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both the just and unjust.
These things are bought to view in this concluding verse, 46, when he states, 2nd (those on the left hand, the goats) shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous (Those on the right hand, His sheep) into life everlasting.
God’s people have such precious promises in this passage of scripture. The words: Come, ye blessed of the Father, inherit the kingdom, are comforting indeed to the weary traveler.
Dear Brothers and Sisters, I would like to thank you for the letters, cards, prayers, flowers, and financial help you gave to me due to my heart attack. And it did so much damage that I cannot return to public work. There is no way that I can thank each one personally, except through the church papers.
I thank the editors for their support and for publishing my need for help. I thank God’s people for responding to my needs. I could not have borne this burden without God and the love that God gives that enables us to show our love, one to another.
If I can ever help any of you, then that is my desire. As long as I live I want to labor for and with my brothers and sisters here in His Kingdom.
Everything that was done in my behalf will always be remembered. They strengthened me. There are two things I would like to share with you. A sister, whom I have never met, sent $2.00 and a beautiful heartfelt letter. I couldn’t help but think of the widow and her mite. Please think about this. You probably know someone in need and you think, I don’t have a lot to give or time to visit or pray for them. God knows what we have and how we use it. After all He gave it to us.
The other one is my heart surgeon. He knew I would not be able to work again. He knew I had large medical bills. He sent me a bill so I would know what I owed him; but in big red letters across the bill, he had written “paid in full.” I thank God for His people everywhere and they are everywhere.
I hope I never have to go through this again; but it has been a blessing in so many ways.
Thank you all again. I love you all.
A very thankful brother, Elder James H. Davis
Clear Creek Primitive Baptist Church was established in the year of 1846 at its’ present location. The first members were: Abel Landers, Jeremiah Evans, Zephenia Standage, Wade Creason, Wm. Adams, Sarah Adams, Rebecca Isbell, Mary Ramsauer, Jane Standage, Della Standage, Nancy King, Judy Hutchenson, Nancy Alberty, and Nancy Adams.
The land was bought from the State of Missouri in 1842. The first pastor was Samuel Gerald.
Other pastors were Wm. Affleld, E.L. Robinson, Thomas Henson, Wm. Mahurin, M. W. Whitley, Jonathon Wood, J. A. Alberty, S.F. Moore, O. K. Coones, Otis O’Dell, Jasper O’Dell, and H. H. Tracy, pastor at this time.
In June of 1992 will be 150 years for Clear Creek. The church has 24 members; two deacons; E. S. Crawmer, also clerk of the church, and Marion Stanley. The church now holds church on the first and third Sundays in each month. Our communion time is in April and October on third Sundays.
We invite all to come and worship with us at any time. We are in Center Creek Association. Our association time is 3rd Sunday in September, starting Thursday night before and continuing until noon on Sunday.
H. H. Tracy, Moderator
Don West, Clerk of Association
STUDYING THE WORD OF GOD
Every first Sunday evening at 5:00 p.m. a small group of Primitive Baptist meet at the Lubbock Church to study the word of God. What a great blessing this has been to us.
Under the guidance of Elder Hulan Bass, we have received much light and understanding about the scriptures. And we, as well as Elder Bass, give our Lord the honor and glory.
This month we went through the Lord’s last supper and into the Garden of Gethsemane. I felt like shouting as Elder Bass explained what our Great Redeemer had done for us. Many of the group had tears in their eyes.
Pray for us and Elder Bas, everyone is invited to come, share the word of God with us.
Leon Watson
Lubbock, TX.
Recently my young son was running barefooted through our back yard, and he picked up a small sticker in the ball of his foot. With the help of a pair of tweezers, we were able to remove the small thorn without too many tears.
It caused me to remember a number of times when I would, as a young boy, become injured and turn to my mother and father to relieve the pain. I wish it were still so easy today when I find myself in a major problem.
In fact, I often find myself facing some same problem or committing some same mistake over and over of which I cannot rid myself. I pray often about seeking the Lord’ help to correct the matter. But the Lord does not such to answer my prayers.
I see others around me with physical, medical or mental problems similar to mine, but the Lord seems to quickly answer their prayers and heal their wounds. Why does God answer some prayers and neglect to answer those of mine? I keep my deficiencies … perhaps He is punishing me deliberately refusing to answer my prayers.
The Apostle Paul teaches us a lesson about our infirmities - our mental, physical, medical, and moral weaknesses. Sometimes we learn it is a blessing for us to learn to live with our problems. With Paul, his infirmity was a “thorn in the flesh.” 2 Cor. 12:7.
The Apostle Paul prayed to the Lord three times to remove the thorn, but the Lord did not answer the prayer—at least the Lord did not answer it the way Paul had in mind when he prayed to the Lord for relief. Instead of removing the thorn, the Lord simply told Paul,” My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Cor. 12:9.
The Lord answers our prayers and blesses us many times by not giving us exactly what we ask. He instead gives us His grace to overcome the thorn in our flesh. Our learning to live with our infirmities and utilize them to the glory of the Lord is a blessing which might not be realized had the Lord simply pulled out the thorn and gotten us out of our immediate pain.
We ask the Lord to give us His grace which will be sufficient to teach us patience to live with our deficiencies. I know I too many times find myself batting my head against the wall trying to get a solution to a problem, or trying to get myself through a condition over which I really have little control. I simply must have help to overcome my “thorn.” The situation I must realize is that the Lord “blesses” me by leaving the thorn in my flesh and providing to me His grace sufficient to live with and utilize the situation to the honor and glory of Him!
Have you ever complained to the Lord, praying over and over, to remove some “thorn” in your side? Maybe we should look to see if that Thorn, or our being required to live with it, has a purpose – or if the Lord has a purpose in not answering our prayers by simply removing it.
“Therefore, I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when. I am weak, then am I strong.” 2 Cor. 12:10.
EDITOR’S NOTE:
We are presently experiencing a problem that is a kind of problem to have. In recent weeks we have received more good articles for publication than we have allowable space in the paper.
We intend to publish all the good articles that we can, and will include those received in upcoming issues, focusing on those first of a timely nature, especially those involving upcoming meeting notices. We ask our readers’ and writers’ patience, as we will print all the articles as space permits from month to month. Thank you.
Whereas, called to his eternal home with the Lord on January 16, 1991, our beloved Brother in Christ, Elder Marvin Smith passed from this life peacefully after suffering a stroke while in his sleep. He would have been 86 years old in just twelve days, and we are so grateful that our Lord gave him a long and productive life among
Elder Smith was born in Indian Territory shortly following the turn of the century, and became one of this State’s most widely known ministers among the Primitive Baptists and the community at large. Well respected for his ability to expound on his Lord and the Holy Scriptures, Elder Smith won friends through the Southwest and beyond.
Boldness to preach was impressed clearly upon this man, and he would preach wherever he journeyed at every opportunity. Yet he was a gentle man who received love and respect because he gave the same to everyone he met. He passed on the excitement of a future time with our Lord, and no subject occupied him as much as did I the coming of our Lord. In this way, his preaching was very much like those of the early apostles and disciples who held out so brightly the hope of the return of Jesus Christ.
To those in this church who knew Elder Smith and his wonderful family as every day friends, Elder Smith seemed bigger than life, and far from ordinary. The stroke suffered about two years before his death left him sometimes unable to recite scriptures and speak as fluently as he once did, and so he declined to take a speaking part in the worship service. Yet he was always with us, for he always wanted to be in church.
He pastored numerous churches in several states, as well as having preached in many more, he taught the ones to whom he preached that they had the duty of gathering to worship at every opportunity—and that which he preached, he lived by example.
Our memories are rich with times past spent in the presence of Elder Smith and his precious wife, Sister Monetha, whom we love so dearly. We share with her the grief of loss of her lifetime companion. But Sister Monetha retains the message of her husband’s preaching which she shared and supported throughout their nearly 65 years of marriage, and she remains among her friends and loved ones in buoyant hope, as all of us look forward to the time we rejoin our Brother in Christ, looking to the glorious resurrection day which filled Elder Smith’s preaching.
Therefore, be it Resolved by Bethlehem Primitive Baptist Church, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma that a copy of these resolutions of respect be placed on our church records, copies be sent to The Banner of Love and the Baptist Witness for publication, and that a copy be sent to the Family of Elder Smith.
Written and approved by order of Bethlehem Church while in conference on Feb. 2, 1991.
Bill D. McCarthy, Moderator
Floyce Floyd, Church Clerk
My husband, Elder Marvin W. Smith took sick around 1:00 a.m. Jan. 16, 1991. I woke up and found him unconscious, called my granddaughter, Monetha Jean. We rushed him to the hospital and the doctor said he had had a massive stroke in his sleep. He never regained consciousness and passed away at noon the same day.
Marvin had a slight stroke in November 1988 while we were in Florida visiting our daughter. We were visit lag Elder Thomas’ church in Palm Beach, Florida when had had his first stroke. He was never able to preach again after that because the stroke affected his speech. Other than that he was in perfect health.
The Lord blessed him so that he would not have to suffer any longer. I have a lot to be thankful for that he did not have to go to a rest home; he had always said he never wanted to be put in one.
I want to thank everyone for the cards and flowers- that were sent; -it was deeply appreciated. I want to especially thank Elder David Pyles and Elder Bill McCarthy for such a beautiful funeral service.
Marvin and I would have been married sixty five years May l5, 1991. I do miss him so very much, but I know he is resting in the arms of sweet Jesus and I am looking forward to meeting him there some’ sweet day.
Please pray for me and my family; we all need your prayers.
Your sister in Christ,
Sister Monetha Smith
ELDER M. W. SMITH
Elder Marvin W. Smith of OK. City, Okla. passed away on Jan. 16, 1991. Elder Smith was born in Love County, OK on Jan. 281, 1905. He was married to Sister Monetha Easterwood on May 15, 1926. They were blessed with four children; six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren. Their children were: Juanzale Perkins of Miami Beach, FL.; Evelyn Lambert. (deceased) Rita Bostick of Duncan, OK, and Sharon Kay Smith (deceased).
Elder Smith was ordained to the Primitive Baptist ministry on Jan. 1, 1933. He baptized a man on the day of the ordination, and baptized several hundred others throughout the remainder of his life. The Primitive Baptists were blessed with his ministry through the years of. the Great. Depression and World War II. Brother Smith was instrumental in leading numerous persons to the church during this difficult period. Over the span of his life, he pastored at least thirteen churches in three states; he preached in at least 25 states, and is estimated to have driven over 1,000,000 miles preaching the gospel.
Elder Smith’s departure represents a great loss- to his family and the Primitive Baptist people. We will miss him very much. However, few ministers have spoken of Heaven with the frequency, fondness, and anticipation as Brother Smith. We may therefore rejoice in that he is now in the presence of the Lord that he loved and served, and in that he is dwelling forever more in the place that he held in such great affection.
Resolution of Respect
Valley Spring Primitive Baptist Church of Llano, Texas, is saddened by the loss of our precious member, Brother James Earl “Doggie” Locklear, who passed from this life on Dec. 15, 1990, yet we bow in humble submission to the Lord’s will.
Brother Locklear was born on Aug. 19, 1897 in McCulloch Co., Texas, having walked on this earth for 93 years. He married Sister Emma Claris Woods on July 23, 1939, the granddaughter of Elder S.R. Woods, who was one of the constituting members and first pastor of this church in 1882.
Brother Locklear was survived by his precious wife, and three son, Herbert, Dale, and James; ten grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.
Brother Locklear was an old time cowboy, rancher, and well known horseman, and lived most of his life in San Saba County.
He had attended the Valley Spring Church for many years with his wife of 50 years but only joined the church on July 8, 1990, at the age of 92. When we learned of the passing of Brother Locklear, the parable that Christ taught in the twentieth chapter of Matthew came immediately to our mind. Although Brother Locklear only labored in the vineyard the last hour, he received everything that those who labored from the first hour received.
Services were conducted by our pastor, Elder Carl Watson in the Howell-Doran Funeral Home in San Saba with ’burial in the Richland Springs Cemetery.
We will deeply miss Brother “Doggie” and pray that the Lord will comfort the family.
Written by the order of the church. One copy to be sent to The Banner of Love; one copy to the family, and one copy to be placed on our church records.
Elder Carl Watson, Moderator
Brother Ed Henderson, Church Clerk
Mt. Olive Primitive Baptist Church of Mills Co., TX was saddened by the loss of our beloved sister in Christ, Oneta Conway on Feb. 1, 1991. Born April 5, 1905, she was 81 years of age.
Oneta and her husband, Jim joined Mt. Olive Primitive Baptist Church in August 1946. He served as deacon until his death in 1988. Oneta continued to be loyal to the church until her death.
We will miss her, but feel sure, she is in a much better place. May the Lord give her family and loved ones strength and comfort in their sorrow and loss.
Oneta and Jim married Nov. 1924 in Goldthwaite, TX. They were married 64 years and were a pillar of strength in the church and community.
Survivors include four sons: Bobby Conway of Stephenville, TX, Leland Conway of Groves, James Conway of Comanche, W. L. Conway of Valdosta, GA., two daughters: Vivian Marlin of Brownwood and Geraldine Keating of Killeen; eight grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren.
Burial was in the Oakwood Cemetery at Comanche, TX, with Elder James E. Robertson and Elder Vance Rodgers officiating.
Written by request of the church.
Elder James E. Robertson, Pastor
Vivian Wiedebusch, Clerk
We, the Fairview Primitive Baptist Church at Paducah, TX, have on this second Sunday in March 1991, adopted this resolution of respect for our dear sister in Christ, Sister Ruth Carroll. She was born February 26, 1904 at Tennessee Valley in Cottle County and died Aug. 17, 1990 and lived all her life in this area.
Sister Carroll died at Woods Nursing Center in Paducah after a lengthy illness.
She left to mourn her husband, Andrew Carroll and a son, Johnie Glen Carroll, both of Paducah, TX; two sisters, Allie Key of Childress and Myrtle Creamer of Muleshoe and two grandchildren.
Sister Carroll united with the Primitive Baptist Church in March of 1942, by experience and baptism. She was a faithful member as long as she was able to attend. She was a loving wife and mother to her family and a friend to all who knew her.
We, the members of the Fairview Primitive Baptist Church extend our heartfelt sympathy to the family in the loss of their loved one.
Her funeral was conducted at the First Christian Church in Paducah on August, 1990, with Brother Byron Garrison, pastor of the First Christian Church and Elder Luther Porter, pastor of the Fairview Primitive Baptist Church officiating. Burial followed in the Garden of Memories Cemetery near Paducah in the presence of many relatives and friends.
Be it resolved that a copy of this resolution be sent to the family, one to The Banner of Love and one to be made a part of the Church record.
Elder Luther Porter, Moderator
Brother Raymond King, Clerk
Albert Lee Bates passed from this life Dec. 22, 1990. He was born Oct. 15, 1895 in Mena, Ark.
Brother Bates married Beatrice Pruitt in 1916 and to this union eleven children were born. They were baptized together into the Primitive Baptist Church around 1921, and were faithful members until their deaths. She, serving as church clerk and he as a deacon.
Brother Bates was a beekeeper from the age of twelve. He always said the honey was a gift from God and gave it to so many people through the years. It was his special gift of love.
Brother Bates gave wisdom and guidance to his family and church. He attended church faithfully as long as his health allowed.
His services were held Dec. 24th with Elder Kirk McClendon officiating and congregational singing Amazing Grace and Angel Band. It was such a sweet tribute to a servant of God.
Brother Bates was laid to rest in Hewitt Cemetery m Wilson, OK with loving words from Elder McClendon and everyone singing Amazing Grace, which was his favorite hymn.
He is survived by his wife, Ruby Bates, four sons, Joseph, Ray, John, and Aaron; three daughters; Joyce Browning, Naomi Burns, and Elizabeth Edwards.
His seat in the church is empty and he is missed, but we have his memory and his dedication to the church as a guide.
Above all, he loved the Lord and gave Him all the praise for any success he had in life.
‘We at the Cornish Primitive Baptist church in Wilson, bow in humble submission to the will of God in the passing of our dear brother.
Written in love and devotion.
While in conference.
Brother Lynn Henderson, Moderator
Pro-tem Naomi Burris. Church Clerk
PLEASE NOTICE
We are not receiving mail at our home address. So please send all correspondence to:
THE BANNER OF LOVE
P.O. BOX 93123
Lubbock, Texas 79493
I am writing the Banner to let you know about the death of our own Brother Paul Mariner of Amarillo, TX on Thursday, Feb. 28, 1991. The funeral services were held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 2, 1991 at the Amarillo Primitive Baptist Church with his pastor, Elder R. A. Tindall and his brother-in-law, pastor of Midland Primitive Baptist Church officiating. Burial was at Memorial Park Cemetery near the graves of his brother, Cecil and his nephew, Eddie.
He was born on a farm near Brownfield, and moved to Amarillo, twenty years ago and lived in several other towns including Pampa, Midland, and Borger. He graduated from Fluvanna High School, near Snyder in 1942. He served four years in the U.S. Navy during World War II, serving in the Pacific Theatre around Australia and the Philippines. He married Ruby Barrington in 1947 at Amarillo. He was an insurance agent with American National Life Insurance Co. for over thirty years. He was a member of the Primitive Baptist Church for 28 years, and served the church in the capacity of deacon, both in Borger and Amarillo for 27 years. He was on the board of directors of the Primitive Baptist Foundation at Cone.
Survivors include his wife; four daughters, Jeannette Shaver of Fort Worth and Donna Bundrant, Patricia Taylor, and Bonnie Loe, all of Amarillo; a sister, Bernice Hale of Snyder, TX; two brothers, C. W. Mariner of Amarillo and Herbert Mariner of Sun City, Calif., nine grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and friends. His wife continues to live at 2218 S. Ong, Amarillo, TX. 79109.
I am one of his many nieces and I wanted to reflect a memory or two about my uncle.
As a child, I remember visiting in the home of Aunt Ruby and Uncle Paul, and one thing I remember vividly was that Uncle Paul loved to sing. When we were having fun with the cousins, Uncle Paul was singing, around the house, in the shower, in the yard, everywhere. The songs were popular in nature back then as the Lord had not touched his heart with the realization of a rebirth. He could really sing beautifully! As years passed I noticed changes beginning to emerge from Uncle Paul—like the fact that he was beginning to like going to church and on a wonderful day (the day after my own wedding) Uncle Paul, Uncle Cecil Smyth and his daughter, Celia joined the church and were baptized on Sunday night April 7, 1963.
Now as a young bride, when I visited Uncle Paul and Aunt Ruby’s house, what do I hear—Uncle Paul singing around the house, in the shower, and in the yard--and at church. The songs now ere the songs of Zion that I dearly! What a change!
The little lovely little caterpillar hides itself in its dark cocoon and undergoes its metamorphosis to emerge as the magnificent butterfly.
This metamorphosis symbolizes man’s change and emergency into the light as he embraces the Christian way of life.
It is the symbol of resurrection and Christ’s triumph over death. It also represents springtime, the season of resurrection.”
To say that he was a comforter when my own brother and father died is just a mild word. He became our “surrogate” father and brought a great deal of joy to us in that role. His nieces and nephews call him beloved, and we certainly will miss him. A wise poet once said, “What we is God’s gift to us, what we become is our gift to God.”
I cannot close my reflections without mentioning the fact that Uncle Paul liked to have fun: In his early years he pulled pranks on many of us—in later years, his fun was to have joy in the Lord. I know of no one who could bring so much joy to a congregation with a zestful smile and a “I’m glad you’re here. .1 know I’m certainly glad to be here.” We, at the Amarillo Primitive Baptist Church miss that greeting very, very much.
The bench is empty where he sat, but we feel there is no vacant bench in heaven--and I picture in my mind greetings from his mother and father, brothers and sisters, and my friends, when the Lord said, “Welcome home, Brother Paul.”
These things I ponder in my heart and thank God for the memories.
Beth Baker
This is written in memory of Ruby Anglin, who entered into the glorious presence of the Lord, she loved and served, on Feb. 13, 1991. She was buried in Regency cemetery in Mills County, TX, officiating was her pastor, Elder Vance Rodgers.
She was born Feb. 21, 1915 in Regency, TX to Mr. and Mrs. Will Perkins. She was a member of the Primitive Baptist Church for more than 55 years and was a faithful and loved member of several churches during her life.
She moved to Brownwood early in life and lived most of her formative years here, returning in 1971 after her husband passed away. She worked in Livermore, CA during the world War H and later in San Francisco. Here she met and married Thurman Anglin there in May 11, 1952. They moved to Pueblo, Co. for a number of years. She was preceded in death by her husband in April 15, 1971, and her sister, Cora Arilee Johnson of Livermore, CA. in April 13, 1986.
She is survived by four sisters and three brothers, all living in Texas.
Ruby had two other things she loved to do besides her church. She loved to raise flowers and to cook. She was a loving, generous sister and we shall miss her.
Lena Mae Willett
The Lord called Brother Ralph Sheppard Hand home to be with him last Thursday, the 23rd of March 1991. Funeral services were held at the church here which he loved so much and served it to the end..
Officiating were Elders Gerald Hand and Berwyn Hand, his pastor, also Brother Mike Rodgers, and Elder Spence Kirkpatrick officiated at the cemetery.
Brother Ralph, our only deacon will be missed so very much here.
In Christian Love,
B. F. Hand
A more detailed writing has been requested by. the church here. Also, we here at Carlsbad Church desire an interest in your prayers on behalf of Sister Madge Tate, an only sister in the Hand family, and a long time church clerk of the Carlsbad Church. As she has cancer; is in the hospital and is feared going fast; yet, she has the strongest faith I’ve ever witnessed.
Love to all,
B.F. Hand